09.c1 Village Districts Design Standards - CC Packet
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Date of Meeting: November 19, 2024
To: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
From: T.J. Hofer, Consultant City Planner
Re: Village Districts Design Standards
City staff have prepared a draft ordinance that would amend sections of the Unified
Development Code to address conflicts in the code and the adopted 2040 Comprehensive Plan,
and is asking for comments and direction from the City Council.
BACKGROUND
In June of 2023, the City identified an error in the 2040 Comprehensive Plan regarding density
because of an application that proposed development in a Village Neighborhood guided area.
Staff have reviewed densities within the Comprehensive Plan and have attached a draft copy of
the Comprehensive Plan to detail the proposed changes. The Council discussed the issue at their
June 20, 2023, meeting and gave directions to amend the Comprehensive Plan. At the same
meeting, the Council identified parcels on the Future Land Use Map that were incorrectly
guided.
The issue was discussed at the following City Council meetings: January 16, 2024; April 16,
2024; May 1, 2024; May 21, 2024; July 16, 2024; and August 7, 2024. These packets for these
meetings are linked below and include a full history of the issue.
The City Council approved a Comprehensive Plan Amendment at their May 21, 2024, meeting.
This amendment was submitted to the Metropolitan Council (Met Council) for review. The Met
Council has determined the application to be “incomplete.” The incomplete letter is attached.
The Met Council has stated that the amendment is “not compatible” with the Thrive 2040 system
statements. At the August 7, 2024, City Council meeting, the Council directed staff to begin
work on an amendment to the Unified Development Code (UDC) to address the existing issues.
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OVERVIEW OF PROPOSED STANDARDS
After discussion with Sector Representatives from the Metropolitan Council, it is the staff’s
understanding that language in the UDC can be amended to apply development and design
standards to development that would like to develop at the 1 dwelling unit per 2.5 acres density
maximum, if the standards are not part of a subjective approval.
When adopting ordinances, Councils act in a legislative manner where, so long as there is a basis
for a standard to be adopted and it is not arbitrary and capricious, standards can be established
for uses to be met. Once adopted this language then must be enforced in a quasi-judicial sense,
that is to say, the City is bound by the adopted standards as much as any applicant is. In adopting
standards for subdivisions that are developed to utilize the maximum density guided Rural
Center by the 2040 Comprehensive Plan (Village Districts), the City is establishing standards
that if met by an applicant, must be approved.
The following sections include the proposed language within the draft ordinance with deletions
shown as strikethrough text and new language as red underlined text.
Draft Ordinance - Sections 1 and 2
Table 153.200.030-1. Summary of Dimensional Standards for Base Zoning Districts.
Zoning
District
Agricultural
Preserves
Agricultural
Core
Rural
Residential
General
Rural
Residential
Neighborhood
Village
Historic Core Village Center Village
Neighborhood
Rural
Commercial
Industrial
Park
Abbreviations A-P AG-C RR-G RR-N V-HC V-C V-N R-C I-P
Maximum Density
(DU/AC) 1 DU/40 AC1 4 DU/40 AC 4 DU/40 AC 4 DU/40 AC
1 DU / 2.5 AC
5 DU/40 AC1
1 DU / 2.5 AC
5 DU/40 AC1
1 DU / 2.5 AC
1 DU/1.5 AC2
or 4 DU/40 AC
NA NA
Minimum Lot Size
(New Lot) 40.0 AC 2.0-5.0 AC or
20+ AC 2.0 AC 2.0 AC 2,500 SF1 2 1.00 AC or
8,500 SF2 1.5 AC 2.0 AC 2.0 AC
1Density may exceed 1 DU/40 Acres if criteria established in Minnesota State Statute 473H is met.
1 2Maximum Density and corresponding lots sizes may only be achieved if public water and sewer is available and the parcel or lot is hooked up to municipal service.
2 3Minimum Buildable Area only required for parcels or lots served by private well and septic systems.
Additional standards for each Base Zoning District are provided in Subd. 2 through Subd. 5 of this Section.
Table 153.200.030-10. Village – Historic Core (V-HC) Dimensional Standards – Density and Lot Size
Lot Dimensions and Density Standards
A Lot Size (Existing Lot of Record) None
A Density (Residential)
FAR (Commercial)
Up to 5 Dwelling Units/Acre1 1 dwelling unit per 2.5 acres1
0.5
B Buildable Area N/A for Lot with Public Sewer & Water
0.75 acres for Lot on Private Well and Septic
C Lot Frontage (minimum) 30 Feet
1Maximum density may only be available to lots served by Municipal Services subdivisions meeting conditions established in Section [153.400.020 Subd.
4], including adequate sewage treatment and water supply.
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Table 153.200.030-12. Village Center (V-C) Dimensional Standards – Density and Lot Size
Lot Dimensions (Minimum, only for lots created after the effective date of this UDC)
A Lot Size (New Lot – Public Sewer and Water)
Lot Size (New Lot – Private Well and Septic)
8,500 Square Feet1
1.0 Acres
B Density (Residential)
Floor Area Ratio (Commercial)
Up to 5 Dwelling Units/Acre1 1 dwelling unit per 2.5 acres1
0.5
C Buildable Area N/A for Lot with Public Sewer & Water
0.75 Acres for New Lot on Private Well and Septic
D Minimum Lot Frontage 50 Feet
1Maximum density may only be available to lots served by Municipal Services subdivisions meeting conditions established in Section [153.400.020
Subd. 4], including adequate sewage treatment and water supply.
Table 153.200.030-14. Village Neighborhood (V-N) Dimensional Standards – Density and Lot Size
Lot Dimensions (only for lots created after the effective date of this UDC)
A Lot Size (minimum)
Density (maximum)
1.5 Acres
4 Dwelling Units per 40 Acres1 dwelling unit per 2.5 acres1
B Buildable Area (minimum) 1.0 Acres
C Lot Frontage (minimum) 100 Feet
1Maximum density may only be available to lots served by Municipal Services subdivisions meeting conditions established in Section [153.400.020 Subd.
4], including adequate sewage treatment and water supply.
Sections 1 and 2 of the draft ordinance amend the tables within 153.200 Zoning Districts that
state the density requirements for the Village Districts. Superscript references at the bottom of
Table 153.200.030-1 have been removed as this table serves as a reference to the tables within
the section and detailed elsewhere in the section. Tables 153.200.030-10, 153.200.030-12, and
153.200.030-14 have been amended to include a reference to a new section within 153.400 that
sets standards for development at maximum density within the Village Districts. This new
section is in Section 3 of the draft ordinance.
Draft Ordinance - Section 3
Subd. 4. Village District Design Standards. The Village Districts are guided by the
Comprehensive Plan as a Rural Center and allowed to develop at a rate of one dwelling unit per
two and one half acres. In order for this density to be maximized, the City has established the
following design standards for any subdivision of land into two or more parcels or lots in the
Village Districts.
General Standards.
Minimum Standards. All standards established in 153.400.020 Subd. 3, shall apply.
Maximum Density. Subdivisions wishing to develop at the ratio of 1 dwelling unit per
2.5 acres must meet the minimum standards established in this subdivision.
The General Standards in (A) are established to note that the minimum standards located in the
same chapter must still be met. These include standards for submittal information, lot
requirements, monuments, and streets.
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Design Standards
Buffers.
a. A no-build zone (buffer) between the proposed buildable lots and the subdivision
boundary shall be derived as follows:
i. Streets
1. A 300-foot buffer from the centerline of an arterial street, or a 200-
foot buffer from right-of-way, whichever is greater.
2. A 200-foot buffer from the centerline of a collector street, or a
100-foot buffer from right-of-way, whichever is greater.
3. A 100-foot buffer from the centerline of an existing local street, or
a 50-foot buffer from right-of-way, whichever is greater.
ii. Adjacent Property
1. A 100-foot buffer from all adjacent property lines; or
2. A 200-foot buffer from all existing residential dwellings within an
abutting residential development, whichever is greater.
iii. The buffer shall not be a part of a buildable lot.
b. Areas within the buffer shall be platted as outlot and may contain communal
sewage treatment systems and stormwater management facilities.
c. Any common assets within the buffer must be maintained, ensuring standards
within this code and any conditions included with the approval of the subdivision
are maintained.
Staff have included a requirement for buffers within the subdivision to require that development
is setback from roadways and adjacent properties. These buffered areas can be used for
stormwater management or communal sewage treatment if approved. A party will be required to
maintain these areas.
Soils Analysis. A certified septic designer or soils scientist shall complete a review of
the soils on the site, and categorize all areas as highly suitable for septic systems,
moderately suitable for septic systems, or poorly suited for septic systems.
Septic Design. Based on the soils analysis, an applicant must identify whether the
proposed development will be serviced by individual septic tanks and drain fields, or
via a system of individual septic tanks which utilize one or more communal drain fields.
a. All sewage treatment systems shall be in compliance with Washington County
Development Code Chapter Four Subsurface Sewage Treatment System
Regulations.
b. If individual septic tanks and drain fields can be supported by the available soils
and is the chosen methodology to serve the development, all proposed lots must be
able to provide primary and secondary drain field sites on each lot (outside of
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drainage and utility easements) and must meet the minimum lot size standards
outlined herein.
c. If individual septic tanks which utilize a communal drain field (or fields) is the
chosen methodology to serve the development, then the locations for communal
drain fields shall be identified within the areas deemed the most suitable on the site
for supporting septic utilities according to the soils analysis. All such areas shall be
clearly denoted on the provided plan sets.
Language regarding septic is largely a reference to Washington County’s requirements, as the
County reviews all septic systems. Any applicant would be required to submit information
showing that any proposed sewage treatment method can be achieved.
Identification of Preferred Building Pad Locations. Building pad locations, up to the
maximum number of units permitted, which preserve natural topography and
drainageways, minimize tree loss, protect historic sites or structures, and limit the need
for soil removal and/or grading shall then be identified. The orientation of individual
building sites shall maintain maximum natural topography and ground cover.
a. Building pads shall be located outside of required buffers and shall be sited so as to
provide ample room for accessory structures on each proposed lot.
b. If individual septic tanks and drain fields for each lot are to be utilized, locations
for primary and secondary facilities for each proposed building pad shall also be
identified. All such sites must be verified as being viable as a component of
preliminary plat review.
c. If individual septic tanks utilizing communal drain fields is intended, the plan must
clearly identify which communal drain field will service each of the proposed
building pads.
Building pads are required to be identified to both preserve existing natural resources and ensure
lot dimensional standards can be met. Identification of building pads also allows for septic to be
determined and any issues with required easements to be determined.
Streets.
a. All lots shall have access from a local street. No access shall be permitted to any
lot from a street designated as an arterial or collector.
b. Streets shall be designed and located in such a manner as to:
i. Maintain and preserve natural topography, groundcover, significant
landmarks, historic barns, and trees;
ii. Minimize cut and fill;
iii. Preserve and enhance both internal and external views and vistas;
iv. Promote road safety;
v. Ensure adequate access for fire and rescue vehicles; and
vi. Ensure and promote adequate vehicular circulation both within the
development and with adjacent neighborhoods.
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c. The design of streets and the dedication of right-of-way shall be in compliance with
the city's current engineering design standards and specifications as may be
amended.
d. Streets shall not encroach into a required buffer area unless it can be demonstrated
that such an alignment is necessary to achieve the goals outlined above, and that no
equivalent option exists outside of the buffer. Driving surfaces that cross the buffer
area at a 90-degree angle to provide current or future access to an adjacent property
or boundary road shall be the only exception.
Language regarding streets is intended to ensure that developments at maximum density are
served off local streets to limit access points along arterial and collector streets. Additional
design standards are included so that natural features are preserved.
Stormwater Management
a. Subdivisions shall be designed to minimize the number of stormwater
management facilities required.
b. Stormwater management facilities shall be located near and accessible from right-
of-way where practicable.
c. All stormwater management facilities including emergency overflow pathways
shall be located within drainage and utility easements, and shall not promote
surface flow outside of its respective easement.
d. Emergency overflows from stormwater management facilities shall be directed
away from adjacent properties towards public right-of-way or public drainage
systems to the fullest extent practicable.
e. Stormwater treatment standards shall meet or exceed those outlined in the
Carnelian Marine St. Croix Watershed District stormwater management standards
and/or the Minnesota NPDES permit conditions, whichever is more stringent.
Stormwater management facilities will be required to minimize the number of facilities and to
locate them near public right-of-way to ensure that the facilities can be maintained. Additional
standards have been added to ensure stormwater management meets required permitting outside
of the City and to ensure stormwater generated from development does not impact adjacent
properties.
Landscaping and Screening
In addition to landscaping requirements for individual lots established in this chapter,
permanent vegetative screening with a depth of at least 20 feet shall be required to
screen the development from all arterial and collector roads.
In order for subdivisions that utilize the maximum density possible to blend in with the character
of Scandia, landscaping requirements have been included in addition to other requirements to
screen developments from arterial and collector roads.
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ANALYSIS
Staff Analysis
Staff believes the proposed standards will result in a higher quality of development that
ultimately is better for the City and landowners.
Staff discussed the possibility of applying design standards based on tiering options (1 DU/5 AC,
1 DU/10 AC, etc.) to development in the Village districts, but ultimately found the idea to be
problematic. Without a basis for determining these standards, any restrictions or requirements
could be seen as arbitrary or capricious. 153.400.020 Subd. 3 (A) II. requires future subdivision
to be considered in the form of a “ghost Sketch Plat.” Staff would require the ghost plat as part of
any subdivision in the Village District that does not meet the maximum density.
Staff requests that the Council discuss the utilization and purpose of the buffer areas. The
ordinance was drafted to require higher buffer standards from more intensive street usages
(arterial 300 ft., collector 200 ft., local 100 ft), with the intent of preserving scenic vistas within
the City. The Council should consider if these buffers are desirable and address the concerns of
development. The inverse of these buffers, requiring larger buffers from local streets and smaller
buffers from arterials, could be implemented if the Council desires to create more separation
within local neighborhoods, rather than along major streets through the City.
COUNCIL ACTION
Staff are requesting feedback on the proposed standards in order to prepare an ordinance
amendment to the UDC.
Staff are requesting the Council motion to recommend the draft ordinance to the Planning
Commission.
Attachments
A. Draft Ordinance 2024-XX Amending Village District Density and Subdivision Standards
B. City Council "Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Density and Zoning Discussion”
Packet, January 16, 2024 (Link Only)
C. City Council "Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Density and Zoning Discussion”
Packet, April 16, 2024 (Link Only)
D. City Council "Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Density and Zoning Discussion”
Packet, May 1, 2024 (Link Only)
E. City Council "Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Density and Zoning Discussion”
Packet, May 21, 2024 (Link Only)
F. City Council "Update: Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Density and Zoning
Discussion” Packet, July 16, 2024 (Link Only)
G. City Council "Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Density and Zoning Discussion”
Packet, August 7, 2024 (Link Only)
Removed Text: Strikethrough
New Text: Red Underlined
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CITY OF SCANDIA
ORDINANCE NO.: 2024-XX
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE SCANDIA UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE
SECTION 153.200.020 AND 153.300.030 REGARDING RETAIL CLASSIFICATIONS
AND STANDARDS
The City Council of the City of Scandia, Washington County, Minnesota hereby ordains:
Section 1 Amendment. The City of Scandia Unified Development Code (“Development Code”,
“Code”, or “UDC”), Table 153.200.030-1 Summary of Dimensional Standards for Base
Zoning Districts, shall be amended by adding the underlined text and deleting the stricken
text as follows:
Table 153.200.030-1. Summary of Dimensional Standards for Base Zoning Districts.
Zoning
District
Agricultural
Preserves
Agricultural
Core
Rural
Residential
General
Rural
Residential
Neighborhood
Village
Historic Core Village Center Village
Neighborhood
Rural
Commercial
Industrial
Park
Abbreviations A-P AG-C RR-G RR-N V-HC V-C V-N R-C I-P
Maximum Density
(DU/AC) 1 DU/40 AC1 4 DU/40 AC 4 DU/40 AC 4 DU/40 AC
1 DU / 2.5 AC
5 DU/40 AC1
1 DU / 2.5 AC
5 DU/40 AC1
1 DU / 2.5 AC
1 DU/1.5 AC2
or 4 DU/40 AC
NA NA
Minimum Lot Size
(New Lot) 40.0 AC 2.0-5.0 AC or
20+ AC 2.0 AC 2.0 AC 2,500 SF1 2 1.00 AC or
8,500 SF2 1.5 AC 2.0 AC 2.0 AC
1Density may exceed 1 DU/40 Acres if criteria established in Minnesota State Statute 473H is met.
1 2Maximum Density and corresponding lots sizes may only be achieved if public water and sewer is available and the parcel or lot is hooked up to municipal service.
2 3Minimum Buildable Area only required for parcels or lots served by private well and septic systems.
Additional standards for each Base Zoning District are provided in Subd. 2 through Subd. 5 of this Section.
Section 2 Amendment. The City of Scandia Unified Development Code (“Development Code”,
“Code”, or “UDC”), Table 153.200.030 Subd. 4, shall be amended by adding the
underlined text and deleting the stricken text as follows:
Table 153.200.030-10. Village – Historic Core (V-HC) Dimensional Standards – Density and Lot Size
Lot Dimensions and Density Standards
A Lot Size (Existing Lot of Record) None
A Density (Residential)
FAR (Commercial)
Up to 5 Dwelling Units/Acre1 1 dwelling unit per 2.5 acres1
0.5
B Buildable Area N/A for Lot with Public Sewer & Water
0.75 acres for Lot on Private Well and Septic
C Lot Frontage (minimum) 30 Feet
1Maximum density may only be available to lots served by Municipal Services subdivisions meeting conditions established in Section [153.400.020 Subd.
4], including adequate sewage treatment and water supply.
Removed Text: Strikethrough
New Text: Red Underlined
Page 2 of 6
Table 153.200.030-12. Village Center (V-C) Dimensional Standards – Density and Lot Size
Lot Dimensions (Minimum, only for lots created after the effective date of this UDC)
A Lot Size (New Lot – Public Sewer and Water)
Lot Size (New Lot – Private Well and Septic)
8,500 Square Feet1
1.0 Acres
B Density (Residential)
Floor Area Ratio (Commercial)
Up to 5 Dwelling Units/Acre1 1 dwelling unit per 2.5 acres1
0.5
C Buildable Area N/A for Lot with Public Sewer & Water
0.75 Acres for New Lot on Private Well and Septic
D Minimum Lot Frontage 50 Feet
1Maximum density may only be available to lots served by Municipal Services subdivisions meeting conditions established in Section [153.400.020
Subd. 4], including adequate sewage treatment and water supply.
Table 153.200.030-14. Village Neighborhood (V-N) Dimensional Standards – Density and Lot Size
Lot Dimensions (only for lots created after the effective date of this UDC)
A Lot Size (minimum)
Density (maximum)
1.5 Acres
4 Dwelling Units per 40 Acres1 dwelling unit per 2.5 acres1
B Buildable Area (minimum) 1.0 Acres
C Lot Frontage (minimum) 100 Feet
1Maximum density may only be available to lots served by Municipal Services subdivisions meeting conditions established in Section [153.400.020 Subd.
4], including adequate sewage treatment and water supply.
Section 3 Amendment. The City of Scandia Unified Development Code (“Development Code”,
or “Code”), Section 153.400.020, shall be amended by adding the underlined text and
deleting the stricken text as follows:
Subd. 4. Village District Design Standards. The Village Districts are guided by the
Comprehensive Plan as a Rural Center and allowed to develop at a rate of one dwelling unit per
two and one half acres. In order for this density to be maximized, the City has established the
following design standards for any subdivision of land into two or more parcels or lots in the
Village Districts.
(A) General Standards.
Minimum Standards. All standards established in 153.400.020 Subd. 3, shall apply.
Maximum Density. Subdivisions wishing to develop at the ratio of 1 dwelling unit per
2.5 acres must meet the minimum standards established in this subdivision.
Removed Text: Strikethrough
New Text: Red Underlined
Page 3 of 6
(B) Design Standards
Buffers.
a. A no build zone (buffer) between the proposed buildable lots and the subdivision
boundary shall be derived as follows:
i. Streets
1. A 300-foot buffer from the centerline of an arterial street, or a 200-
foot buffer from right-of-way, whichever is greater.
2. A 200-foot buffer from the centerline of a collector street, or a
100-foot buffer from right-of-way, whichever is greater.
3. A 100-foot buffer from the centerline of an existing local street, or
a 50-foot buffer from right-of-way, whichever is greater.
ii. Adjacent Property
1. A 100-foot buffer from all adjacent property lines; or
2. A 200-foot buffer from all existing residential dwellings within an
abutting residential development, whichever is greater.
iii. The buffer shall not be a part of a buildable lot.
b. Areas within the buffer shall be platted as outlot and may contain sewage
treatment systems and stormwater management facilities.
c. Any common assets within the buffer must be maintained, ensuring standards
within this code and any conditions included with the approval of the subdivision
are maintained.
Soils Analysis. A certified septic designer or soils scientist shall complete a review of
the soils on the site, and categorize all areas as highly suitable for septic systems,
moderately suitable for septic systems, or poorly suited for septic systems.
Septic Design. Based on the soils analysis, an applicant must identify whether the
proposed development will be serviced by individual septic tanks and drain fields, or
via a system of individual septic tanks which utilize one or more communal drain fields.
a. All sewage treatment systems shall be in compliance with Washington County
Development Code Chapter Four Subsurface Sewage Treatment System
Regulations.
b. If individual septic tanks and drain fields can be supported by the available soils
and is the chosen methodology to serve the development, all proposed lots must be
able to provide primary and secondary drain field sites on each lot (outside of
drainage and utility easements), and must meet the minimum lot size standards
outlined herein.
c. If individual septic tanks which utilize a communal drain field (or fields) is the
chosen methodology to serve the development, then the locations for communal
drain fields shall be identified within the areas deemed the most suitable on the site
Removed Text: Strikethrough
New Text: Red Underlined
Page 4 of 6
for supporting septic utilities according to the soils analysis. All such areas shall be
clearly denoted on provided plan sets.
Identification of Preferred Building Pad Locations. Building pad locations, up to the
maximum number of units permitted, which preserve natural topography and
drainageways, minimize tree loss, protect historic sites or structures, and limit the need
for soil removal and/or grading shall then be identified. The orientation of individual
building sites shall maintain maximum natural topography and ground cover.
a. Building pads shall be located outside of required buffers and shall be sited so as to
provide ample room for accessory structures on each proposed lot.
b. If individual septic tanks and drain fields for each lot are to be utilized, locations
for primary and secondary facilities for each proposed building pad shall also be
identified. All such sites must be verified as being viable as a component of
preliminary plat review.
c. If individual septic tanks utilizing communal drain fields is intended, the plan must
clearly identify which communal drain field will service each of the proposed
building pads.
Streets.
a. All lots shall have access from a local street. No access shall be permitted to any
lot from a street designated as an arterial or collector.
b. Streets shall be designed and located in such a manner as to:
i. Maintain and preserve natural topography, groundcover, significant
landmarks, historic barns, and trees;
ii. Minimize cut and fill;
iii. Preserve and enhance both internal and external views and vistas;
iv. Promote road safety;
v. Ensure adequate access for fire and rescue vehicles; and
vi. Ensure and promote adequate vehicular circulation both within the
development and with adjacent neighborhoods.
c. The design of streets and the dedication of right-of-way shall be in compliance with
the city's current engineering design standards and specifications as may be
amended.
d. Streets shall not encroach into a required buffer area unless it can be demonstrated
that such an alignment is necessary to achieve the goals outlined above, and that no
equivalent option exists outside of the buffer. Driving surfaces that cross the buffer
area at a 90 degree angle to provide current or future access to an adjacent property
or boundary road shall be the only exception.
Stormwater Management
a. Subdivisions shall be designed to minimize the number of stormwater
management facilities required.
b. Stormwater management facilities shall be located near and accessible from right-
of-way where practicable.
Removed Text: Strikethrough
New Text: Red Underlined
Page 5 of 6
c. All stormwater management facilities including emergency overflow pathways
shall be located within drainage and utility easements, and shall not promote
surface flow outside of its respective easement.
d. Emergency overflows from stormwater management facilities shall be directed
away from adjacent properties towards public right-of-way or public drainage
systems to the fullest extent practicable.
e. Stormwater treatment standards shall meet or exceed those outlined in the
Carnelian Marine St. Croix Watershed District stormwater management standards
and/or the Minnesota NPDES permit conditions, whichever is more stringent.
Landscaping and Screening
In addition to landscaping requirements for individual lots established in this chapter,
permanent vegetative screening with a depth of at least 20 feet shall be required to
screen the development from all arterial and collector roads.
Section 3 Amendment. The remainder of the code. Numbering within sections of the Unified
Development Code shall be adjusted in tandem to include the amendments within this
ordinance.
Section 4 Effective Date. This ordinance shall be in full force and effect upon its adoption and
publication.
Removed Text: Strikethrough
New Text: Red Underlined
Page 6 of 6
Passed and adopted by the City Council of the City of Scandia this 17th day of December 2024.
Christine Maefsky, Mayor
ATTEST:
Kyle Morell, City Administrator
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Date of Meeting: January 16, 2024
To: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
From: T.J. Hofer, Consultant City Planner
Re: Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Density and Zoning Discussion
The City has identified a conflict between the 2040 Comprehensive Plan and the Unified
Development Code (UDC) that sets inconsistent density standards in the Village Neighborhood
(V-N) Base Zoning District. Staff has prepared draft language to update the Comprehensive Plan
and is seeking Council direction to move forward with the amendment.
BACKGROUND
In June of 2023 the City identified an error in the 2040 Comprehensive Plan regarding density
because of an application that proposed development in a Village Neighborhood guided area.
Staff has reviewed densities within the Comprehensive Plan and has attached a draft copy of the
Comprehensive Plan to detail the proposed changes. The Council discussed the issue at their
June 20, 2023, meeting and gave direction to amend the Comprehensive Plan.
At the same meeting the Council identified parcels on the Future Land Use Map that were
incorrectly guided.
In August of 2023 the Council reviewed draft changes to the Comprehensive Plan and gave
further direction to staff to make additional changes to the Comprehensive Plan that reflect the
adoption of the UDC and the names and standards for the zoning districts that were created when
the UDC was adopted in September of 2022.
ANALYSIS OF STANDARDS
A draft copy of updates to the 2040 Comprehensive Plan is attached to this staff report. The
proposed changes are related to density, resulting calculations from changes to densities, and the
referenced zoning ordinance (the zoning ordinance was replaced with the Unified Development
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Code in October of 2022). Proposed changes can be found on the following pages: 19 – 22, 26 –
32, 53, 120, 123 – 131.
A proposed Future Land Use Map is also included within the updates and attached to the staff
report that reflects the comments made at the June 20, 2023, City Council meeting by moving the
western edge of the Village Neighborhood district further to the east.
Staff have highlighted a paragraph on page 26 and 27 that states the zoning ordinance allows for
75% bonus density “for multi-unit developments if providing community value through
agricultural land protection, life-cycle housing or natural resource protection or other amenities.”
The Comprehensive Plan references Oakhill Cottages as an example of this use. The UDC does
not allow for this type of flexibility and does not allow for Open Space Planned Unit
Developments within the Village Neighborhood District.
Staff have highlighted a sentence on page 56 that states the zoning ordinance allows for density
flexibility for life-cycle housing. The UDC does not allow for density flexibility for the purpose
of life-cycle housing.
ANALYSIS
Staff Analysis
Staff believes that the proposed changes will address the concerns regarding density identified at
the June 20, 2023, and August 15, 2023, City Council meeting.
Staff are looking for additional direction from the City Council regarding density flexibility
allowances. The Comprehensive Plan references density flexibility for providing open space in
the Village Neighborhood district and density flexibility for life-cycle housing that is not
reflected in the UDC.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff are requesting direction from the City Council to make final changes to the Comprehensive
Plan and distribute the edits for the adjacent and affected jurisdiction as required by the
Metropolitan Council.
Attachments
A. Select Pages from Draft 2040 Comprehensive Plan Amendments
B. 2040 Comprehensive Plan Amendments (Link Only)
C. Draft Proposed Future Land Use Map
D. Future Land Use Map (Link Only)
City of Scandia
2040 Comprehensive Plan – Volume 1
Approved by Metropolitan Council October 9, 2019
Approved by City of Scandia October 15, 2019
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 17
• Scandia has a large number of two-person households, which is likely attributed to the large
number of older residents. Only 1 in 5 homes in Scandia has children, which will impact
schools, services, and future population growth of the city.
• Scandia’s population remains fairly homogenous, though the number of residents identifying
as Hispanic/Latino has increased.
• Residents are becoming increasingly educated, which may influence the desired types of
employment and median household incomes.
Existing Land Use
A large portion of land in the City of Scandia is currently undeveloped, about 41% of total
acreage in the city. The most prominent land use in the city is agriculture, making up about a
quarter of land in Scandia. Open water makes up 13% of land in Scandia, and residential uses
make up about 10% of the city’s total land. Figure II G shows the existing land uses in the City.
Table II-G further details current land use in Scandia.
Table II-G – Existing Land Use
Land Use Gross Acres Percent of Total
Agricultural 6,425.5 25%
Extractive1 197 1%
Farmstead 218.7 1%
Golf Course 17 0.07%
Industrial and Utility 11 0.04%
Institutional 46.6 0.2%
Mixed Use Residential 13 0.05%
Multifamily 3 0.01%
Open Water 3,252 12.8%
Park, Recreational, or Preserve 2,147 8%
Railway 73 0.3%
Retail and Other Commercial 34.8 0.1%
Seasonal/Vacation 70.7 0.3%
Single Family Attached 9.5 0.04%
Single Family Detached 2,610 10.3%
Undeveloped 10,347 41%
Total 25,475 100%
Source: Metropolitan Council Data, 2016
1 Extractive includes areas that identified on an aerial photo as currently mined or mined in the past.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 18
Figure II-G – Existing Land Use
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 19
Table II-H identifies the number of existing housing units in each land use category.
Table II-H – Existing Net Residential Density (in Planned Land Use Categories)
Planned Land Use
Category
Single
Family
Number
of Units
Multi-
Family
Number
of Units
Acres
Gross
Residential
Acres Development
Constraints
(wetlands, parks,
ROW, etc.)
Net
Residential
Acres
Net Density
Units/Acre
A B C D E=C-D (A+B)/E
Agricultural Core 229 0 6,953 731 6,221 0.04
General Rural 881 30 9,679 1,232 8,447 0.11
Rural Mixed Use 110 0 419 150 269 0.41
St. Croix River District 60 0 681 114 567 0.11
Village Neighborhood 133 0 1,480 150 1,330 0.10
Village Mixed Use 65 0 287 18 269 0.24
Recreation Area
Protected 10 0 2,132 1,566 567 0.02
Total 1,488 30 21,632 3,962 17,671 0.09
Source: Washington County Parcel Data
In October of 2022, Scandia adopted a new Unified Development Code to replace the existing
zoning and subdivision ordinances. With this change, districts have been renamed and
modified. Scandia’s Unified Development Code, which includes both zoning and subdivision
standards, zoning code specifies maximum density for various residential development. Based
on these requirements, Table II-I shows the number of housing units per acre that can be
developed under current zoning regulations. These densities are anticipated to remain the same
in corresponding future land uses. Most large lot residential zoning districts require lots to be a
minimum of two acres, and all zoning districts have a maximum lot coverage of 25%. Bonus
densities in the Village Neighborhood District allow up to one dwelling unit per acre. This is
done to make efficient use of existing resources in Village Neighborhood and to guide
residential development to these areas to help preserve agricultural lands and open spaces from
development.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 20
Table II-I – Current Residential Allowed Density Ranges
Land Use Category Units/Acres
(Ordinance Standards)
St. Croix River District 4/40
Agricultural Preserve 1/40
Agriculture Core District 4/40
General Rural District Rural Residential General
and Rural Residential Neighborhood 4/40
Village Neighborhood District 4/40 1/2.5
Village Mixed Use A District Village – Historic
Center 5/1 ½.5
Village Mixed Use B District Village Center 5/1 1/2.5
When density is regulated by a ratio that references 40 acres, those 40 acres shall be the area
defined by the Public Land Survey as Quarter-Quarter Sections. Until sewer improvements are
made, zoning in the Rural Mixed Use area will remain General Rural Rural Residential
General.
The zoning code for the City of Scandia provides a maximum lot coverage for commercial and
industrial development. The Metropolitan Council has provided estimates for the number of
employees per square feet in various employment types; rates range from 556 square feet per
job at the low end (medical clinics) to 2,500 square feet per job at the high end (hotels). Using
the city’s lot coverage allowance as guidance, an estimate of jobs/square foot can be estimated
to project future employment based on future land use designations and planned development.
The Village Mixed Use A District Village – Historic Center District allows a maximum lot
coverage of 80 percent. The Village Center District allows a maximum lot coverage of 35
percent. The Rural Commercial District, Village Mixed Use B District and Industrial Park
District all both allow a maximum lot coverage of 65 percent.
Future Land Use
The 2040 Land Use Map (Figure II-H) shows the desired land use for all property in Scandia.
Table II-J summarizes the planned land uses by category shown on the map. The planned future
land uses shown on this map reflect previous community planning efforts as well as desired
updates identified as part of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update process.
Table II-J – Planned Land Use
Land Use Gross Acres Percent of Total Area
Agricultural Core 6,953 27%
General Rural 9,679 38%
Mining 443 1.7%
Rural Commercial 75 0.3%
Rural Mixed Use 419 1.6%
St. Croix River District 681 2.7%
Village Neighborhood 1,480 5.8%
Village Mixed Use 287 1.1%
Recreation Area Protected 2,132 8.4%
Open Water 3,252 12.8%
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 21
Railway 73 0.3%
Total 25,475 100%
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 22
Figure II-H – Planned Land Use
UPDATED MAP
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 23
Future land use designations were determined by a variety of factors, including an analysis of
existing land use, the current land use plan, and development constraints. Factors impacting
development include:
• Existing regional parks, Wildlife Management Areas, and Scenic and Natural Areas;
• Steep slopes;
• Wetlands and waterbodies;
• Roads, railroads, and the Regional Bike Trail Network;
• Shoreland and flood plain;
• Agricultural Preserves; and
• Prime farmland.
Figure II-I maps development constraints in the City of Scandia.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 24
Figure II-I – Development Constraints
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 25
Table II-K summarizes the developable land available by decade in future land uses
classifications. Non-developable land includes areas that cannot be developed, such as
wetlands, steep slopes, and the road right-of-way, as well as existing development.
Development is forecasted for each decade at existing land use densities, adding to the amount
of non-developable land in each land use. Forecasted development is based on projected
housing and employment needs (as projected in Table II-B, Forecasted Population, Households
and Employment), minimum lot sizes by each land use district and an anticipated allocation of
the projected housing development between each of the land use districts. The planned future
land uses shown on this map reflect previous community planning efforts as well as desired
updates identified as part of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update process.
Table II-K – Planned Land Use Net Acres
Planned Land Use
Category
2015 (Current) 2020 2030 2040
De
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Acres Acres Acres Acres Acres Acres Acres Acres
Agricultural Core 5688 1265 5588 1365 5488 1465 5388 1565
General Rural 6121 3559 5710 3969 5310 4369 4903 4776
Mining 262 181 262 181 262 181 262 181
St. Croix River District 296 385 206 475 106 575 6 675
Rural Commercial 45 30 44 32 42 34 41 35
Rural Mixed Use 269 150 269 150 269 150 195 224
Village Mixed Use 125 162 109 178 88 199 67 220
Village Neighborhood 1,080 400 780 700 430 1,050 200 1,280
Open Water 0 3,252 0 3,252 0 3,252 0 3,252
Recreation Area Protected 0 2132 0 2132 0 2132 0 2132
Railway 0 73 0 73 0 73 0 73
Total 13,887 11,589 12,968 12,507 11,995 13,480 11,062 14,413
To meet projected housing needs, it is anticipated homes will be developed in the following
percentages in each respective land use district.
Table II-L – Planned Land Use Development Characteristics
Land Use Percent of Anticipated Housing Units
Agricultural Core 5%
General Rural 21%
Rural Mixed Use 5%
St. Croix River District 5%
Village Neighborhood 60.4%
Village Mixed Use 3.4%
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 26
The following land use descriptions will be used for planning purposes and correspond to the
planned land use designations on the Planned Land Use Map.
a) Agricultural Core
The Agricultural Core district is established to protect and preserve land for long-term
agricultural production. Over time, the nature of agricultural production in Scandia will
most likely change from traditional dairy farms to specialty agriculture and agriculture
production for local/metropolitan markets. Residential development compatible with
agriculture uses (4 per 40 density) and parks will be a secondary land use in this
district. This designation corresponds with the Agricultural Core Area zoning district in
the current zoning ordinance. The City’s zoning and subdivision ordinance should
allow density bonuses up to 75% will be considered for single-family developments if
providing community value through agricultural land protection, life-cycle housing,
natural resource protection or other amenities.
b) General Rural
The General Rural area land use category is a residential area of mixed lot sizes. It
recognizes areas of Scandia that have been developed in the past at densities of ten acre
or less and areas that have larger parcels still used for agriculture. The area includes 10-
acre parcels, but also a number of existing smaller parcels and some parcels enrolled in
the Agricultural Preserves Program. Single-family residential dwellings are the primary
land use for the General Rural area at densities of 4 units per 40 acres in the same
Quarter-Quarter Section. Secondary land uses include agricultural production,
including small-scale production, parks and recreation, and public and private
institutions. Recreational commercial uses are allowed as a conditional use. This
designation corresponds with the General Rural Rural Residential General and Rural
Residential Neighborhood District in the current zoning ordinance. The City’s zoning
and subdivision ordinance should allow density bonuses up to 75% will be considered
for single-family developments if providing community value through agricultural land
protection, life-cycle housing, natural resource protection or other amenities.
c) Village Mixed Use
This land use category recognizes the significant contribution of the existing village
center to the overall character of the community. New commercial, retail, and
residential activity will be encouraged in order to develop and redevelop areas in the
village center while maintaining the historic nature of the village center. Primary land
uses in the Village Mixed Use area include commercial, office, retail, public and
private institutions, civic buildings, light industrial, and parks and recreation.
Residential uses, including single family homes, townhouses and multi-family
buildings, will be a secondary use. Multi-family buildings in the village center will
achieve the goal of diversifying the housing options for younger families, seniors, and
singles. Future lot sizes will be similar to the existing mix of lot sizes in the village
center. In order to support these relatively small lot sizes, community sewer systems
are anticipated. This designation corresponds with the Village Mixed Use AVillage -
Historic Core and and B and Village Center Districts, and the Planned Industrial
District in the current zoning ordinance. The zoning ordinance requires a minimum lot
size of 2.5 acres per unit. Higher densities up to one five units per acre may be
permitted through Conservation Design or Cluster Development, Conditional Use
Permits, or Planned Unit Developments on a case by case basis, depending on the land
use intensity and the ability of the site and/or system to manage wastewater. Per the
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 27
City Development Unified Development Code Chapter 2, Section 6, 153.200.050 Subd.
4, density bonuses up to 75% will be considered for multi-unit developments if
providing community value through agricultural land protection, life-cycle housing or
natural resource protection or other amenities. This is consistent with existing multi-
unit developments like the Oakhill Cottages. While exact proportions of uses will be
dependent on development, it is anticipated the Village Mixed Use District will have
roughly 60 percent commercial/office/retail uses and 40 percent residential uses.
d) Village Neighborhood
The Village Neighborhood area is a planned extension of the existing Village Center,
located adjacent to and north and west of the Village Center. This land use category
designates a growth area surrounding the village and is intended to support single and
multi-family residential uses on lot sizes reflective of the existing village lot sizes. This
corresponds with the Village Neighborhood District in the current zoning ordinance.
The primary land use for the Village Neighborhood area will be small-lot, single-
family residential uses. Public and private institutions, civic buildings, and parks and
recreation uses will also be allowed. Townhomes and multi-family units will be
allowed as an incentive for providing community value through agricultural land
protection, life-cycle housing, or natural resource protection. New development in the
Village Neighborhood District will be at a density of 4 units per 40 acres in the same
Quarter-Quarter Section. A community sewer system may be necessary in order to
allow for lot sizes similar to existing village lots. By concentrating development in the
Village Neighborhood area, the City of Scandia hopes to protect agricultural and
natural resource areas from development pressure. The zoning ordinance requires a
minimum lot size of 12.5 acres per unit. Higher densities up to one unit per 1.5 acre
may be permitted through Cluster Development or Conservation Design practices,
Conditional Use Permits, or Planned Unit Developments on a case by case basis,
depending on the land use intensity and the ability of the site and/or system to manage
wastewater. Per the City Development Code Chapter 2, Section 6, density bonuses up
to 75% will be considered for multi-unit developments if providing community value
through agricultural land protection, life-cycle housing or natural resource protection or
other amenities. This is consistent with existing multi-unit developments like the
Oakhill Cottages.
St. Croix River District
The St. Croix River District recognizes the unique historical and natural resource
aspects of the floodplain and bluffs of the shoreland area of the St. Croix River. This
area includes historic crossroad and seasonal home communities, parkland, river
access, and areas protected under scenic easements held by the National Park Service.
The mapped area east of State Highway 95 corresponds to land areas protected under
federal wild and scenic river designation. The future of this area includes limited
residential development that protects the natural and scenic shoreland areas, and public
and private protected lands. This corresponds with the Lower St. Croix River Corridor
Overlay District in the current zoning ordinance.
New development in the St. Croix River District will be at a density of 4 units per 40
acres. Smaller lots may be permitted through the use of open space conservation
subdivisions but may not exceed maximum densities. Viewsheds should be considered
and protected in the siting of structures and driveways.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
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e) Rural Commercial
The Rural Commercial future land use area is intended to support commercial
development in places of historic commercial activity. These areas are the only
commercial areas anticipated outside of the Village Center and are intended to
complement Village Center commercial uses. Rural Commercial areas are designated at
the historic commercial nodes of the Big Marine Store, Copas/Abrahamson Nurseries,
and the intersection of Highways 95 and 97. Commercial uses reflecting the historic
nature of the community and compatible with the surrounding rural character will be
allowed on lot sizes of at least 2 acres. Because this future land use area builds upon
historic character, commercial building design standards shall reflect the historic nature
of the community. This corresponds with the Rural Commercial District in the current
zoning ordinance.
f) Rural Mixed Use
The Rural Mixed Use area is located to the west of Big Marine Lake. This is a new
land use category and is intended to allow for single-family residential development
connected to the Big Marine Store rural commercial area. Single family residential
would be at a maximum density of 4 units per 40 acres. Some civic buildings, small
commercial, and parks and recreation uses will also be allowed. It is anticipated the
Rural Mixed Use District will have roughly 85 percent residential uses and 15 percent
commercial or civic uses.
Improvements to the existing community system are necessary to permit higher density
in this area. Until that occurs, new development will be limited in this area. Section 5
of the City of Scandia’s Subdivision Ordinance includes lack of adequate sewage
treatment systems as a condition of premature development within the City, which shall
not be approved by City Council. Until the sewer is improved, the current General
Rural Rural Residential General zoning district will remain in place, preserving land at
residential densities of 4 units/40 acres to be consistent with the Diversified Rural
community designation. Upgrades and improvements to the community system will
occur alongside new development in the area. The presence of wetlands and the
additional regulations of the shoreland overlay district, which covers many parcels in
this area of the City, will likely be constraining factors for both new development and
sewer improvements.
However, it is the intention of the City of Scandia to encourage development and
higher densities in this area once improvements to the community sewer are made. To
that end, the City will work to amend the zoning ordinance and comprehensive plan as
needed to implement higher densities and land use once the infrastructure is sufficient.
g) St. Croix River District
The St. Croix River District recognizes the unique historical and natural resource
aspects of the floodplain and bluffs of the shoreland area of the St. Croix River. This
area includes historic crossroad and seasonal home communities, parkland, river
access, and areas protected under scenic easements held by the National Park Service.
The mapped area east of State Highway 95 corresponds to land areas protected under
federal wild and scenic river designation. The future of this area includes limited
residential development that protects the natural and scenic shoreland areas, and public
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 29
and private protected lands. This corresponds with the Lower St. Croix River Corridor
Overlay District in the current zoning ordinance.
New development in the St. Croix River District will be at a density of 4 units per 40
acres. Smaller lots may be permitted through the use of open space conservation
subdivisions but may not exceed maximum densities. Viewsheds should be considered
and protected in the siting of structures and driveways.
h) Recreation Area Protected
The Recreation Area Protected land use category includes publicly owned lands
permanently protected from development. This designation recognizes that these areas
will continue to be used for recreation or open space only and not developed. If
recreation facilities are developed within these areas, priority natural resource areas
shall be protected. In addition, priority natural resources should be restored and
enhanced wherever possible within protected recreation areas. This designation
corresponds with the Agricultural Preserves, Agricultural Core Area, and General
Rural Rural Residential General Districts in the zoning ordinance.
i) Mining
The Mining area includes areas in the City of Scandia with active, permitted mining
operations. Mining activity is anticipated to continue in these areas in the future.
Mining uses must comply with local and state extractive use regulations and
reclamation shall restore the topography and natural resources of the site to a level such
that the land is suitable for the planned future land uses such as agriculture or
residential. This corresponds with the Aggregate Mining Overlay District in the current
zoning ordinance.
The following overlay district will also guide land uses in specific, sensitive areas:
• Agriculture Preserves Overlay District (AP)
The Agricultural Preserves Overlay plans for the continuation of the Agricultural Preserves
Program is Scandia. This overlay is intended to encourage the continuation of agriculture
through ensuring the availability of the Program to qualifying agricultural landowners.
The Agricultural Preserves Overlay lies over the primary agricultural future land use area,
the Agricultural Core Area. The Agricultural Preserves Overlay allows individual property
owners within Scandia to continue to participate in the Agricultural Preserves Program.
This voluntary program for landowners within the seven-county metropolitan area allows
individuals to place their properties under a restrictive covenant committing their property
to agricultural use in exchange for certain benefits. These benefits include a special tax rate
calculated based on agricultural value rather than market value, a property tax credit,
protection of normal farm practices, and protection against special assessments for public
improvement projects.
While the underlying zoning district (Agricultural Core Area) allows four dwellings per 40
acres, parcels enrolled in the Agricultural Preserves Program and located within the
Agricultural Preserves Overlay shall be allowed only 1 unit per 40 acres per program
requirements.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 30
Additional details on the corresponding zoning districts are included on Table X-A in the
Implementation chapter.
1. Density Calculations
Based on the above future land use plan and land use calculations, residential and
commercial land use requirements have been calculated to help Scandia plan for and meet
Metropolitan Council projections for population, households, and employment. Residential
calculations are detailed in Table II-M and commercial calculations are detailed in
Table II-N.
Residential
To meet forecasted 2040 population and household projections, the City of Scandia will
need to add 582 housing units by 2040. These calculations show the number of acres
needed to accommodate all needed housing units in each zoning district. Residential
development is anticipated to take place in all residential zoning districts in an orderly
manner consistent with the staging plan, discussed below. These calculations do not include
any density bonuses which may be allowed per the Zoning Ordinance. Actual acreage
needed to accommodate future households and their locations will be influenced by market
forces.
Table II-M – Residential Density Increase Calculations
Future Land Use Zoning
Districts Permitting
Residential Use
Density
(Units/Acre)
Desired
Distribution
Number of
Households
Acres
Needed
Current (2015)
Developable Acres
Agricultural Core 4/40 5% 30 300 5,688
General Rural 4/40 21% 122 1,220 6,121
St. Croix River Corridor 4/40 5% 29 290 296
Rural Mixed Use 4/40 5% 7 73 269
Village Neighborhood 1/2.5 4/40 60.4 7.8% 352 44 440 880 1,080 1/1.5 55% 308 462
Village Mixed Use 1/2.5 5/1 3.4% 20 50 4 125
Total 100% 560 2,813
2,789
13,889
Commercial
To meet forecasted 2040 employment projections, the City of Scandia will need to add 190
jobs by 2040. These calculations show the number of acres needed to accommodate all
needed new jobs in each zoning district. Based on guided land use and available
developable acres, Scandia has sufficient available vacant land to meet employment
projections based on development in the Village Mixed Use (commercial/industrial) Rural
Commercial, and Rural Mixed Use (both commercial) districts. Actual acreage needed to
accommodate jobs will greatly depend on the types of businesses starting or expanding in
Scandia. These calculations also do not include remote telecommuting, home occupations,
or permitted employment opportunities in agricultural zoning districts, all of which will
influence the number of acres needed to accommodate employment in Scandia.
Table II-N – Commercial/Industrial Increased Density Calculations
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 31
Zoning
Districts
Density Range
(Jobs/Acre) Desired
Distribution
Number
of Jobs
Minimum
Acres
Maximum
Acres
Current (2015)
Developable
Acres Minimum Maximum
Village
Mixed Use 14 62.4 60% 114 1.8 8.1 125
Rural
Commercial 11.4 50.7 30% 57 1.1 5 46
Rural
Mixed Use 11.4 50.7 10% 19 0.4 1.7 269
Total - - 100% 190 3.3 14.8 440
2. Staged Development or Redevelopment
The goal of a Staging Plan is to manage growth and guide the orderly and cost-effective
provision of infrastructure at a rate that is consistent with forecasted growth, at the same
time responding appropriately to market conditions. Table II-O identifies the staging of
future growth in Scandia. This table indicates the anticipated timing and sequence of
growth. It identifies the developable acres, number of housing units and jobs that may be
developed in each 10-year planning period. The table is not intended to limit or to compel
growth in any specific area within the planning period. Rather, it is an estimation of where
growth may logically occur.
A staging plan cannot force development to occur but can be used as a tool to guide
development appropriately. In many cases, cities choose to stage and time growth in an
orderly and contiguous manner; however, there is nothing about adopting a staged growth
plan that forces any private property owner to sell or develop their land before they wish to
do so. The City of Scandia will make development decisions based on existing and
development of new infrastructure, land capacity and market conditions.
Table II-O – Staging of Future Land Use Units/Jobs/Acres
Outside Urban
Service Area
Average Density
Range Housing
Existing
Developable
(2015)
2020 2030 2040
Residential Units/Acre Acres Units Acres Units Acres Units Acres
Agricultural Core 0.1 5,688 10 100 10 100 10 100
General Rural 0.1 6,121 41 410 40 400 41 410
Rural Mixed Use 0.1 269 0 0 0 0 7 73
St. Croix River District 0.1 296 9 90 10 100 10 100
Village Mixed Use 0.4 125 5 13 7 18 8 20
Village Neighborhood 0.4 1,080 120 300 140 350 92 230
Average Density for New Development 560 units/2,789 814 = 0.20 units/acre
Non-Residential Estimated
Employment/Acre
Developable
Acres Jobs Acres Jobs Acres Jobs Acres
Village Mixed Use 14 62.4 125 53 3.8 50 3.6 11 0.8
Rural Commercial 11.4 50.7 46 27 2.4 20 1.8 10 0.9
Rural Mixed Use 11.4 50.7 269 0 0 0 0 19 1.67
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
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Average Density for New Development 190 jobs/14.8 acres = 12.8 jobs/acre
One of the main desires of this comprehensive plan is to preserve and augment the
community character and history in Scandia. To support the Village Center, the social and
economic heart of the city, infill development will be encouraged in vacant or underutilized
lots. This will help encourage a vibrant Village Center and surrounding residential
neighborhoods while utilizing existing infrastructure, guiding development and
redevelopment in an orderly manner. The expansion of Village Neighborhoods and Village
Mixed Use the Village zoning districts will occur as market conditions allow.
The implementation of the Rural Mixed Use district west of Big Marine Lake will be
contingent upon infrastructure repairs or upgrades. Most homes in this area are currently
served by community sewer, which is aging and to the point of needing repairs. The City of
Scandia is currently assessing options to best provide wastewater services to this portion of
the city, discussed more in Chapter VI. Development in this area of the city should be
aligned with future wastewater plans and investments.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Housing
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 53
Projected Housing Needs
The City of Scandia is anticipated to see modest population and household growth by 2040.
Exact housing needs and demand for new housing development will be influenced by the actual
population growth and average household size. The amount of land needed to accommodate
new housing units will be influenced by several factors, including the desire for accessory
dwelling units and the location of new units. Most of the city’s housing growth is anticipated to
take place in the Village Neighborhood designation, which permits higher density residential
development than General Rural or Agricultural. Accessory dwelling units on existing lots can
also accommodate the city’s projected population growth without greatly increasing the
demand for developable land.
Figure VI-G – Household Projections
Appendix A details the housing needs and gaps identified by respondents to the 2017
Community Survey. Residential development was noted as one of the top priorities for the city
for the next 20 years. Most survey respondents expressed a desire for mid-range, single-family
homes on larger lots. When asked to identify gaps, the most common response was about the
lack of senior or assisted living (45% of survey responses).
As noted in Appendix B, focus group participants also expressed a desire for housing north of
Highway 97, north/west of the current village center and around Big Marine Lake. There was
interest in senior housing options, which ranged from care facilities to varying house sizes
(smaller single family, townhomes) and lot configurations, such as accessory dwelling units.
To accommodate projected housing needs, the Future Land Use plan expands the Village
Neighborhood designation north and west, a reflection of both public comments and orderly,
contiguous residential expansion. This designation accommodates smaller homes and smaller
lot sizes, blending into the historical character of the Village Center. The zoning ordinance also
includes density bonuses for the development of life-cycle housing, where the housing units are
designated for residents age 55 or older or are affordable to households with incomes less than
120% of AMI. Large lot, single family homes are the primary housing type permitted in
General Rural Rural Residential General, Agricultural Core, and the St. Croix River zoning
districts to preserve the city’s rural character.
408
851
1,060
1,294
1,498 1,518 1,700
1,910 2,100
1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 2030 2040
Household Projections in Scandia
Number of Households
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Housing
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 54
Affordable Housing Allocation
The Affordable Housing Allocation reflects the region’s forecasted population that will need
affordable housing. According to the Metropolitan Council’s affordable housing allocation,
Scandia’s share of affordable housing need is zero units, noted in Table VI-E.
Table VI-E – Affordable Housing Allocation
At or below 30 AMI 0
From 31 to 50 AMI 0
From 51 to 80 AMI 0
Total Number 0
While the City of Scandia does not have an affordable housing allocation, residents have
expressed a concern about the lack of affordable housing in the city. High housing costs were
identified in the Community Survey as one of the top three challenges facing Scandia. About
37% of existing housing units are affordable to households with incomes at or below 80% AMI.
As mentioned in the previous section, Scandia offers a density bonus for the development of
affordable housing (up to 120% AMI) in the Village Neighborhood zoning district. The City
will work with developers and Washington County to inform residents of available programs
and identify opportunities for implementation.
Housing Implementation Plan
There are a variety tools that aid the development of affordable housing. Table VI-F lists
several of the tools available to the City of Scandia. The City of Scandia will consider the
following tools on a case-by-case basis, as development occurs.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Housing
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 55
Table VI-F – Housing Implementation
Housing
Goal/Need Available Tool Opportunity and Sequence of Use Potential Partners
Multi-
Generational
Community
Living
Start-Up Loan
Program
Assist first-time homebuyers with financing a
home purchase and down payment assistance
through a dedicated loan program
Minnesota Housing
Home
Improvement
Loans
Assist homeowners in financing home
maintenance projects to accommodating a
physical disability
Washington
County CDA,
Minnesota Housing
ADU Ordinance
The City will continue to support ordinances
permitting the construction of accessory
dwelling units or guest homes in specific zoning
districts
Planning
Commission and
City Council
Planned Unit
Development
(PUD)
The City would consider a PUD application for
senior housing in the Village Mixed Use district.
Planning
Commission and
City Council
Program or
Framework
The City will work with groups and
stakeholders to develop guiding principles,
frameworks, and action plans to consider and
incorporate the needs of older residents into
development decisions
Senior advocacy
groups or
networks,
residents
Maintaining
Existing Housing
Units
Home
Improvement
Loans
Assist homeowners in financing home
maintenance projects like roof repair,
plumbing and electrical work, accommodating
a physical disability, or select energy efficiency
improvement projects
Washington
County CDA,
Minnesota Housing
Subsurface
Sewage
Treatment System
Repair Grant/Loan
Assist homeowners with noncompliant
subsurface sewage treatment systems
Washington
County
New Housing
Construction
Tax Increment
Financing
The City would consider the creation of a TIF
district to encourage development of new
housing units, redevelopment and/or
infrastructure improvements affordable at or
below 80% AMI
Washington
County CDA
Site Assembly
The City would consider assembling a site for
senior housing. This may include acquiring and
holding land as well as sub-allocating such monies
to a qualified developer approved by the City
Council.
City
Council/Developer
Housing Bonds
The City would consider housing bonds to
support the new construction of affordable
and/or senior housing affordable at or below
80% AMI.
Washington
County CDA
Tax Abatement The City would consider tax abatement to
support the new construction of affordable
Washington
County CDA
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Housing
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 56
Table VI-F – Housing Implementation
and/or senior housing affordable at or below
80% AMI.
MN Housing
Consolidated RFP
The City would consider supporting an
application to support the new construction of
senior housing.
Washington
County CDA,
Minnesota Housing
GROW Fund
Provide gap financing for new or
redevelopment projects affordable to owner or
renter households at or below 60% AMI
Washington
County CDA
Maintaining
Homeownership
Home Buyer
Education
The City will consider partnering with the CDA
and other agencies to offer resources to
homeowners pre- and post-purchase.
Washington
County CDA
Homeowner
Counseling
The City will consider partnering with the CDA
and other agencies to offer counseling and
foreclosure prevention to homeowners.
Washington
County CDA
Community Land
Trust
The City will consider supporting the addition
of appropriate single-family homes into the
Two Rivers Community Land Trust to increase
affordable housing options.
Washington
County CDA
Other
City Ordinances
The City will review zoning and subdivision
ordinances to identify the potential
opportunities for cluster development and
flexible development that will encourage
affordable housing. Planning
Commission and
City Council
The City will review its zoning and subdivision
ordinances to identify any regulations that
inhibit the housing priorities in this document.
This effort is slated for completion by 2020.
Local Fair Housing
Policy
The City will consider developing a Fair Housing
Policy.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 121
X. IMPLEMENTATION
Implementation Plan
The Comprehensive plan creates a vision for the City of Scandia and guides land use and
infrastructure improvements so that the City can meet the needs of the community in the future.
The vision of the plan can only be realized if the plan is used. Tools to implement the plan will
vary in that some will be reactive, such as zoning and subdivision ordinances that guide private
developments, and others will be proactive, such as the City’s Capital Improvement Program
(CIP) for undertaking public improvement projects.
1. Official Controls
To achieve the goals and objectives of this Comprehensive Plan, the City of Scandia has
adopted a Development Code to establish regulations for zoning, subdivision of land, and
shoreland and floodplain areas. The Development Code was originally adopted in
November of 2010, with ongoing amendments as needed. Scandia’s Development Code
incorporates all land development regulations into a single code.
Zoning
City zoning codes regulate land use to promote the health, safety, order, convenience, and
general welfare of all citizens. They regulate location, size, use and height of buildings, the
arrangement of buildings on lots, and the density of population within the City. The City’s
zoning districts effectively guide development in Scandia.
The City of Scandia is divided into eight zoning districts, detailed below and shown in
Figure X-A. There are permitted and accessory uses in most districts, as well as the other
allowed uses under conditional use permit, interim use permits, or administrative permits.
Table X-A provides a high-level summary of each zoning district, and Table X-B provides
a summary of each overlay district.
To ensure compliance with this 2040 Comprehensive Plan, the following zoning ordinance
changes will need to be implemented:
• Update zoning map based on future land use plan
• Reconcile inconsistencies between current zoning ordinance and intended future
land uses
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 122
Figure X-A – Current Zoning Map
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 123
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Zo
n
i
n
g
C
l
a
s
s
i
f
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
s
Agricultural
Preserves
District (AP)
General Description
This district plans for the continuation of the Agricultural Preserves Program in Scandia.
Regulations fulfill standards to make land eligible for the Metropolitan Agricultural Preserves
according to Minnesota Statute 473H, as amended, to remain in long-term agricultural production.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Agricultural production
• Agricultural businesses and services
• Single family residential
• Essential Services
• Feedlots and livestock operations
• Parks and recreation facilities
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
General farming services
Density /Intensity 1 unit per 40 acres. Maximum lot coverage is 25%.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Continued viability of agricultural uses considered in siting of structures and drives
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) I. Character Area:
Agricultural Districts (A-P and AG-C)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 124
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Agricultural
Core Area
(AG-C)
General Description The AG-C District is established to protect and preserve land for long-term agricultural production.
Residential development compatible with agriculture is permitted.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Agricultural production
• Agricultural businesses and services
• Single family residential
• Essential Services
• Feedlots and livestock operations
• Parks and recreation facilities
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
• General farming services
Density/Intensity
4 buildable lots per 40 acres. Lots shall be 2 to 5 acres in size or 20 acres or greater. Maximum lot
coverage is 25%.
An open space conservation subdivision providing the minimum required open space shall receive a
25% density bonus. The number of additional bonus lots allowed is directly tied to the quantity and
quality of preservation and protection afforded natural landscapes, agricultural land, open space, and
cultural features. The maximum bonus permitted is 75%.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Continued viability of agricultural uses considered in siting of structures and drives
• Open space conservation subdivisions are encouraged
• Bonus density incentives may be offered in open space conservation subdivisions only if
agricultural protection is the focal point of the subdivision design
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) I. Character Area: Agricultural
Districts (A-P and AG-C)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 125
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
General Rural
Rural
Residential
General
District (RR-
G)
General Description
Lands zoned Rural Residential General(RR-G)are established to provide for principal residential use
with estate or large-lot development patterns. The RR-G District includes lot or parcel
configurations that are generally unplatted, including mostly non-riparian land. The RR-G District
areas are guided General Rural in the Comprehensive Plan.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Agricultural production
• Agricultural businesses and services
• Single family residential
• Essential Services
• Feedlots and livestock operations
• Parks and recreation facilities
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
• General farming services
Density/Intensity
4 buildable lots per 40 acres; minimum lot size of 2 acres. Maximum lot coverage is 25%.
An open space conservation subdivision providing the minimum required open space shall receive a
25% density bonus. The number of additional bonus lots allowed is directly tied to the quantity and
quality of preservation and protection afforded natural landscapes, agricultural land, open space, and
cultural features. The maximum bonus permitted is 75%.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Continued viability of agricultural uses considered in siting of structures and drives
• Open space conservation subdivisions are encouraged for subdivisions
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) II. Character Area: Rural
Residential Districts (RR-G and RR-N)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 126
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Rural
Residential
Neighborhood
District (RR-
N)
General Description
Lands zoned RR-N are the parcels adjoining, abutting, or a portion of which are within 1,000 feet of
a lake with a public waters designation that were historically platted or divided into smaller lots for
seasonal use. The use of these lots has generally transitioned to permanent year-round use with
predominantly principal residential uses. Most parcels and lots in the RR-N District are at least 50%
contained within the Shoreland Management Overlay (SM-O) District. In addition to the standards
identified in this Section, the lots or parcels are subject to the regulations contained within Chapters
155 of the City Code and the Washington County St. Croix River District standards which are
incorporated by reference herein. Land zoned RR-N are guided Agricultural Core and General Rural
in the Comprehensive Plan.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Agricultural production
• Single family residential
• Essential Services
• Parks and recreation facilities
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
Density/Intensity 4 buildable lots per 40 acres; minimum lot size of 2 acres. Maximum lot coverage is 25%.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Continued viability of agricultural uses considered in siting of structures and drives
• Open space conservation subdivisions are encouraged for subdivisions
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) II. Character Area: Rural
Residential Districts (RR-G and RR-N)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 127
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Village Mixed
Use A Village
– Historic
Core District
(VMU A V-
HC)
General Description
The VMU A V-HC District is established to sustain the historic village center by preserving and
protecting the long-term viability of historic properties and structures, and by allowing a mixture of
mutually supportive land uses. The mixture of commercial, office, institutional, recreational, and
residential land uses are made compatible through the enforcement of design guidelines.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Commercial, office, retail
• Public and private institutions
• Civic buildings
• Light industrial
• Parks and recreation
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory Structures
• Recreation facilities and equipment
Density /Intensity 2,500 square feet minimum lot size 5 dwelling units per acre. No new subdivisions of land
permitted. Maximum lot coverage of 80%. Maximum building height is 45 feet.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• In the core of the Village, buildings shall be of a size and have setbacks that reflect the
“downtown” character
• Scandia Architectural Design Guidelines and Unified Development Code Character Area
Standards should be used as an example to protect the historic elements and further development
should match these styles
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) III. Character Area: Village
Districts (V-N, V-C and V-HC)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 128
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Village Mixed
Use B Center
District (VMU
B V-C)
General Description
The VMU B V-C District is established to provide a growth area around the Village Center. The
District provides for a mixture of commercial, office, institutional, recreational, and residential land
uses. The District provides an area for larger scale businesses, for businesses that benefit from
visibility from MN Hwy 97, and for business and mixed-use development that utilize on-site
wastewater treatment systems.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Department, discount, and warehouse stores
• Garden supply stores
• Laundromats
• Sports and fitness clubs, less than 4,000 square feet in area
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory Structures
• Recreation facilities and equipment
Density /Intensity 5 dwelling units per acre. 2.5 acres minimum lot size, 1 acre minimum buildable area. Maximum lot
coverage 65%. Maximum building height 45 feet
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) III. Character Area: Village Districts
(V-N, V-C and V-HC)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 129
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Village
Neighborhood
District (V-N)
General Description The V-N District is established to designate growth areas surrounding the village center, to support
primarily single-family residential uses on lot sizes reflective of the existing village lot sizes.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Single family residential
• Public parks and recreation
• Agriculture
• Essential Services
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
Recreation facilities and equipment
Density/Intensity
Single family: 4 dwelling unit per 40 acres in the same Quarter-Quarter Section.1 dwelling unit per
2.5 acres. 1 dwelling unit per 1.5 acres (where applicable).
Multifamily (with conditional use permit): 1 dwelling unit per 1.5 acres. Bonus densities up to 1
dwelling unit per acre may be earned as an incentive for providing life-cycle housing (age 55+).
utilized if if public water and sewer is available and the parcel or lot is hooked up to municipal
service.
Lots sizes in the Goose Lake shoreland area shall remain consistent with those allowed under the
current shoreland ordinance.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Design standards shall ensure that new development is visually compatible with existing village
development patterns.
• Street and sidewalk standards ensure new development is well-connected to the Village Center
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) III. Character Area: Village
Districts (V-N, V-C and V-HC)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 130
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Industrial
Park District
(I-P)
General Description
The IP District is established to allow for light industrial businesses. IP District areas are designated
Village Mixed Use in the Comprehensive Plan. Industrial park uses include a variety of light
manufacturing, fabrication, assembly, warehouse, wholesaling or storage businesses that are non-
threatening to the environment. The IP District does not abut major roadways, and property access is
via a local street which does not also serve residential districts.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Permitted uses:
• Building Supplies
• Contractor Operations
• Light Manufacturing and Assembly
• Essential services
• Government Buildings
• Recreational Uses
Secondary uses:
• Accessory Structures
• Off-Street Parking
• Temporary Produce Stands
Density /Intensity 2.05 acres minimum lot size, 1 acre minimum buildable area. Maximum lot coverage 65%.
Maximum building height 45 feet
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) IV. Character Area: Business Districts
(R-C and I-P)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 131
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Rural
Commercial
District (R-C)
General Description
Lands zoned Rural Commercial are intended to support commercial development of rural areas in
the community that have historically been used for some type of business use. R-C zoned land is
guided Rural Commercial in the Comprehensive Plan.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Permitted uses:
• Agriculture
• Banks, Credit Unions, and other financial institutions
• Bed and Breakfast Inns
• Offices
• Motor Vehicle Service Stations
• Restaurants
Secondary uses:
• Accessory Structures
• Off-Street Parking
Density /Intensity 2.0 acres minimum lot size, 1 acre minimum buildable area. Maximum lot coverage 65%. Maximum
building height 45 feet
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) IV. Character Area: Business Districts
(R-C and I-P)
Prepared by
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Scandia
Comprehensive Plan
Scandia, Minnesota April 2019, Updated August 2023
Proposed Future Land Use
Legend
Agricultural Core
General Rural
Mining
St Croix River District
Recreation Area Protected
Rural Commercial
Rural Mixed Use
Village Mixed Use
Village Neighborhood
Open Water
Railway
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Source: Washington County, Met. Council, MnGeo, MnDOT, Esri
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Future Land Use
City Limits
County Boundary
PARCELS
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Agricultural Preserves
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1 | P a g e
Date of Meeting: April 16, 2024
To: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
From: T.J. Hofer, Consultant City Planner
Re: Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Density and Zoning Discussion
The City has identified a conflict between the 2040 Comprehensive Plan and the Unified
Development Code (UDC) that sets inconsistent density standards in the Village Neighborhood
(V-N) Base Zoning District. Staff have prepared language to update the Comprehensive Plan
based on direction from the City Council to ensure that the adopted documents are consistent.
The staff report to the Planning Commission from the April 2, 2024, meeting is attached and
includes the background of the project and a summary of the proposed changes.
BACKGROUND
In January of 2024, the Council reviewed a draft of the Comprehensive Plan Amendment and
authorized staff to proceed with the necessary review. Letters were sent out requesting review
from 19 communities and organizations that the Metropolitan Council has deemed to be affected
by the comprehensive plan. Nine responses were received from the City of Forest Lake, City of
Hugo, City of Marine on St. Croix, Chisago Lake Township, Carnelian-Marine-St. Croix
Watershed District, ISD 831 Forest Lake, Washington County, and the National Park Service.
The comments that were received are attached at the end of this staff report.
ANALYSIS OF STANDARDS
The proposed amendment to the 2040 Comprehensive Plan is attached to this staff report. The
proposed changes are related to density, resulting calculations from changes to densities, and the
referenced zoning ordinance (the zoning ordinance was replaced with the Unified Development
Code in October of 2022). Proposed changes can be found on the following pages: 19 – 22, 26 –
32, 53, 120, 123 – 131.
The proposed changes to density will lower the density within the Village Neighborhood future
land use from 1 dwelling unit (DU) per 2.5 acres to 4 DU per 40 acres as well as allow higher
densities of 1 DU per 1.5 acres depending on the land use intensity and the ability of the site
and/or system to manage wastewater.
2 | P a g e
Additional changes to the future land use descriptions were added to detail the use of planned
unit developments (PUD) and the bonus density that can be gained. Following this amendment,
the UDC will need to be amended to establish additional standards for PUDs and OS-PUDs.
Chapter X. Implementation includes Table X-A which provides a high-level summary of each
zoning district. This table has been updated to reflect the new zoning within the UDC. A
proposed Future Land Use Map is also included within the updates and attached to the staff
report that reflects the comments made at the June 20, 2023, City Council meeting by moving the
western edge of the Village Neighborhood district further to the east.
ANALYSIS
Planning Commission
The Planning Commission heard the application at the April 2, 2024, meeting. The Commission
held a public hearing where no comments were received. The Commission then closed the public
hearing.
The Planning Commission discussed the wording of the bonus density within future land use
descriptions, the requirements to allow for 1 dwelling unit per 1.5 acres within the Village
Neighborhood future land use, and language throughout the amendment.
The Commission discussed the change in density within the Village Neighborhood future land
use category at length. The Commission and staff discussed whether city-managed sanitary
services or shared or community sanitary services (privately managed) were required to utilize
the 1 DU per 1.5-acre density ratio..
The Planning Commission moved to recommend approval of the amendment, with amendments.
The amendments included:
• Rephrasing of the bonus density language:
o The City’s zoning and subdivision ordinance should allow density bonuses up to
75% will be considered for single-family developments if providing community
value through agricultural land protection, life-cycle housing, natural resource
protection or other amenities.
• Striking of language in the Village Neighborhood future land use for clarity.
o The zoning ordinance requires a minimum lot size of 2.5 acres per unit.
• Removing the words “public” and “municipal” from the Village Neighborhood District
summary in Table X-A Zoning Districts
o Bonus densities up to 1 dwelling unit per 1.5 acre may be utilized if public water
and sewer is available and the parcel or lot is hooked up to municipal service.
rephrased to
o Densities up to 1 dwelling unit per 1.5 acre may be utilized depending on the land
use intensity and the ability of the site and/or system to manage wastewater.
3 | P a g e
The motion was approved with a vote of 4-1 (Aye: Loeffler, Hogle, Rynders, Fodor; Nay:
Libby). Commissioner Libby specifically stated that they were voting against the
recommendation because of the amendment to remove the references of “public” and
“municipal” from the Village Neighborhood future land use.
Staff Analysis
Staff believes that the proposed changes will address the concerns regarding density identified at
the June 20, 2023, August 15, 2023, and January 16, 2024, City Council meetings.
The comprehensive plan amendment will lead to multiple changes to the UDC. One of these
changes will be to allow for a higher standard of development and potentially increased densities
through PUDs.
Staff asks the City Council to specifically discuss the proposed changes to the Village
Neighborhood future land use. The 2040 Comprehensive Plan currently states:
Higher densities up to one unit per acre may be permitted through Cluster Development
or Conservation Design practices, Conditional Use Permits, or Planned Unit
Developments on a case by case basis, depending on the land use intensity and the ability
of the site and/or system to manage wastewater.
The UDC currently states for the Village Neighborhood zoning district density of 1 DU per 1.5
acres:
2Maximum Density and corresponding lots sizes may only be achieved if public water
and sewer is available and the parcel or lot is hooked up to municipal service.
The recommended language from the Planning Commission is proposed as:
Higher densities up to one unit per 1.5 acre may be permitted on a case by case basis,
depending on the land use intensity and the ability of the site and/or system to manage
wastewater.
Language within the 2040 Comprehensive Plan does not indicate that wastewater must be
managed through municipal services, however, the UDC does require this. Staff have previously
interpreted this standard within the UDC to mean that “public” is synonymous with “municipal”
or city owned and operated. Development at densities of 1 DU per 1.5 acres can be supported on
privately owned community septic. The text recommended by the Planning Commission would
allow for development at the 1 DU per 1.5 acres density to be developed through the use of
either private or public wastewater treatment. If the intent of the Council is to allow the density
to be only utilized with the use of public or private wastewater exclusively, the Comprehensive
Plan Amendment should be amended.
If the intent of the Council is to allow for residential development in the Village Neighborhood
guided area of the City at a density of 1 DU per 1.5 acres with either public or private wastewater
treatment, the Comprehensive Plan Amendment as recommended by the Planning Commission
4 | P a g e
will guide the City this way. If this is the intent of the Council, staff would also ask the Council
to direct staff to prepare a UDC amendment to address the language within the UDC regarding
this.
RECOMMENDATION
The Planning Commission recommends:
Motion to recommend approval of the attached resolutions to approve a Comprehensive
Plan amendment related to density, resulting calculations from changes to densities, and
the referenced zoning ordinance with findings and conditions as described by staff within
the staff report.
Staff recommends:
Motion to approve staff to prepare an amendment to the Unified Development Code
regarding Planned Unit Developments, density within the Village Neighborhood district,
and other elements as needed to ensure compliance with the 2040 Comprehensive Code.
Attachments
A. Resolution 04-16-24-02 Adopting a Comprehensive Plan Amendment
B. Resolution 04-16-24-03 Authorizing Submittal of a Comprehensive Plan Amendment
C. Proposed Amended 2040 Comprehensive Plan
D. Proposed Amended 2040 Comprehensive Plan – Redlines Only
E. 2040 Comprehensive Plan (Link Only)
F. Proposed Future Land Use Map
G. Future Land Use Map (Link Only)
H. Planning Commission " Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Density and Zoning
Discussion” Packet, April 2, 2024
1
CITY OF SCANDIA
WASHINGTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA
RESOLUTION NO. 04-16-24-02
A RESOLUTION ADOPTING A COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT
REGARDING ESTABLISHED FUTURE LAND USES, ESTABLISHED DENSITY
STANDARDS, PRODUCED DENSITY CALCULATIONS, AND REFERENCED
ZONING STANDARDS
WHEREAS, on April 2, 2024, the Scandia Planning Commission held a public hearing
regarding a Comprehensive Plan Amendment regarding established future land uses, established
density standards, produced density calculations, and referenced zoning standards, attached hereto
as Exhibit A (comprehensive plan amendment) that revises and amends the Scandia 2040
Comprehensive Plan; and
WHEREAS, any change to the Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan requires approval of a
comprehensive plan amendment; and,
WHEREAS, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes section 473. 858, the proposed comprehensive
plan amendment was submitted to adjacent governmental units for review and comment on January
31, 2024, and the comment period ended on March 30, 2024, with seven responses; and
WHEREAS, the City conducted a public hearing on April 2, 2024, relative to the adoption
of the proposed comprehensive plan amendment; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has considered the proposed comprehensive plan
amendment and all public comments and thereafter recommended approval of the amendment to
this City Council; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has reviewed the proposed comprehensive plan amendment
and those recommendations, public comments, and comments from adjacent jurisdictions.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of Scandia, Minnesota, as
follows:
The Comprehensive Plan Amendment regarding established future land uses, established
density standards, produced density calculations, and referenced zoning standards attached
hereto is adopted, to take full legal effect as soon as practical under laws of the State of
Minnesota.
2
Adopted by the City Council of the City of Scandia this 16th day of April 2024.
____________________
Christine Maefsky, Mayor
ATTEST:
Kyle Morell, City Administrator
3
EXHIBIT A
1
CITY OF SCANDIA
WASHINGTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA
RESOLUTION NO. 04-16-24-03
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING SUBMITTAL OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
UPDATE TO THE METROPOLITAN COUNCIL
WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes section 473.864 requires each local governmental unit to
review and, if necessary, amend its entire comprehensive plan and its fiscal devices and official
controls at least once every ten years to ensure its comprehensive plan conforms to metropolitan
system plans and ensure its fiscal devices and official controls do not conflict with the
comprehensive plan or permit activities that conflict with metropolitan system plans; and
WHEREAS, the City of Scandia has completed its decennial review and adopted the City
of Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan on December 18, 2018; and
WHEREAS, the City of Scandia has established future land uses, established density
standards, produced density calculations, and referenced zoning standards; and,
WHEREAS, the City of Scandia desires to change density standards to direct higher density
development towards the established village center within the City; and,
WEHEREAS, the City of Scandia adopted the Unified Development Code on September
20, 2022, to replace the previous zoning and subdivision codes; and,
WHEREAS, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes section 473. 858, the proposed Comprehensive
Plan Update was submitted to adjacent governmental units for review and comment on January 31,
2024, and the comment period ended on March 30, 2024, with seven responses; and
WHEREAS, the City conducted a public hearing on April 2, 2024, relative to the adoption
of the proposed Comprehensive Plan Update; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has considered the proposed Comprehensive Plan
Update and all public comments and thereafter submitted its recommendations to this City Council;
and
WHEREAS, the City Council has reviewed the proposed Comprehensive Plan Update and
those recommendations, public comments, and comments from adjacent jurisdictions; and
WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes section 473.858 requires a local governmental unit to
submit a proposed comprehensive plan update to the Metropolitan Council following
recommendation by the Planning Commission and after consideration but before final approval by
the governing body of the local governmental unit; and
WHEREAS, based on its review of the proposed Comprehensive Plan Update and Planning
Commission and staff recommendations, the City Council is ready to submit its proposed plan to the
Metropolitan Council for review pursuant to Minnesota Statutes section 473. 864.
2
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, the City Council for the City of Scandia hereby:
1. The Administrator is directed to distribute said Comprehensive Plan Update to the
Metropolitan Council pursuant to Minnesota Statutes section 473.864.
Adopted by the City Council of the City of Scandia this 16th day of April 2024.
____________________
Christine Maefsky, Mayor
ATTEST:
Kyle Morell, City Administrator
City of Scandia
2040 Comprehensive Plan – Volume 1
Approved by Metropolitan Council October 9, 2019
Approved by City of Scandia October 15, 2019, Amended April 16, 2024
Changed sections are
marked with red clouds
throughout the document.
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Table of Contents
I. Introduction ........................................................................................................................ 1
Purpose of the Plan ............................................................................................... 1
Vision, Goals and Policies ..................................................................................... 1
Background/History of the Community ............................................................... 4
Process ................................................................................................................... 6
Regional Setting .................................................................................................... 6
II. Land Use .............................................................................................................................. 8
Land Use Goals and Objectives ............................................................................. 8
Community Designation ....................................................................................... 9
Forecasts .............................................................................................................. 10
Demographics ...................................................................................................... 12
Existing Land Use ................................................................................................. 16
Future Land Use .................................................................................................. 19
III. Natural Resources ............................................................................................................. 29
Natural Resources Goals and Objectives ............................................................ 29
Aggregate Resources ........................................................................................... 30
Regionally Significant Natural Areas .................................................................. 30
Special Resource Protection ............................................................................... 32
IV. Resilience .......................................................................................................................... 34
Resilience Goals and Policies .............................................................................. 34
Solar ..................................................................................................................... 34
Minnesota GreenStep Cities ............................................................................... 37
V. Economic Competitiveness ............................................................................................... 38
Economic Competitiveness Goals and Objectives ............................................. 38
Employment in Scandia....................................................................................... 39
Income ................................................................................................................. 40
VI. Housing ............................................................................................................................. 42
Housing Goals and Objectives ............................................................................ 42
Existing Housing .................................................................................................. 43
Projected Housing Needs .................................................................................... 49
Affordable Housing Allocation ............................................................................ 50
Housing Implementation Plan ............................................................................ 50
VII. Parks and Trails ................................................................................................................. 53
Parks and Trails Goals and Objectives ................................................................ 53
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Existing Guiding Documents ............................................................................... 54
Metropolitan Council System Statement ........................................................... 55
Stakeholder Perceptions and Recommendations .............................................. 56
Existing Parks and Trails ...................................................................................... 58
Proposed Parks and Trails ................................................................................... 63
Implementation .................................................................................................. 68
Appendices .......................................................................................................... 68
VIII. Transportation .................................................................................................................. 69
Overview ............................................................................................................. 69
Transportation Goals and Objectives ................................................................. 69
Existing Roadway Conditions .............................................................................. 70
Roadway System Plan ......................................................................................... 76
Transit Plan .......................................................................................................... 86
Non-Motorized Transportation Plan .................................................................. 87
Freight Plan .......................................................................................................... 87
Aviation Plan ....................................................................................................... 87
IX. Water Resources ............................................................................................................... 89
Water Resource Goals and Policies .................................................................... 89
Wastewater ......................................................................................................... 89
Surface Water ...................................................................................................... 97
Water Supply ..................................................................................................... 106
X. Implementation .............................................................................................................. 113
Implementation Plan ........................................................................................ 113
Figures
Figure II-A - Community Designation Map....................................................................................... 9
Figure II-B – Proposed Rural Centers ............................................................................................. 11
Figure II-C - Population by Age and Sex ......................................................................................... 12
Figure II-D - Age Distribution ......................................................................................................... 13
Figure II-E – Household Types in Scandia ...................................................................................... 14
Figure II-F – Education Level .......................................................................................................... 15
Figure II-G – Existing Land Use ....................................................................................................... 17
Figure II-H – Planned Land Use ...................................................................................................... 20
Figure II-I – Development Constraints ........................................................................................... 21
Figure III-A - Natural and Special Resources .................................................................................. 31
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Figure IV-A - Solar Potential Map ................................................................................................... 36
Figure V-A - Historical and Projected Employment in Scandia ...................................................... 39
Figure V-B - Employment by Industry ............................................................................................ 40
Figure V-C - Median Household Income ........................................................................................ 40
Figure VI-A – Housing Cost Burden ................................................................................................ 44
Figure VI-B – Age of Housing .......................................................................................................... 45
Figure VI-C – Residential Building Permits ..................................................................................... 45
Figure VI-D – Housing Ownership .................................................................................................. 46
Figure VI-E – Housing Values ......................................................................................................... 47
Figure VI-F - Owner Occupied Units by Value ................................................................................ 48
Figure VI-G – Household Projections ............................................................................................. 49
Figure VII-A - Regional Parks and Trails ......................................................................................... 57
Figure VII-B - Local Parks and Trails ............................................................................................... 60
Figure VII-C – Maintained Easement to State Park ........................................................................ 63
Figure VII-D – Trails Planning Map ................................................................................................. 65
Figure VII-E – Trails Planning Map, Old Village .............................................................................. 66
Figure VII-F - Proposed Local Parks and Trails ............................................................................... 67
Figure VIII-A - Existing Traffic and Crash Data ................................................................................ 71
Figure VIII-B – Roadway Jurisdiction .............................................................................................. 72
Figure VIII-C – Functional Classification ......................................................................................... 74
Figure VIII-D – Local Roadway Gaps ............................................................................................... 78
Figure VIII-E – Transportation Analysis Zones ................................................................................ 81
Figure VIII-F – 2040 Traffic Volumes .............................................................................................. 84
Figure IX-A – Existing Subsurface Sewage Systems ....................................................................... 91
Figure IX-B - Existing Public Wastewater System ........................................................................... 95
Figure IX-C - Watershed Drainage Area ....................................................................................... 100
Figure IX-D - Impaired Waters ..................................................................................................... 104
Figure IX-E - Water Distribution ................................................................................................... 107
Figure IX-F - Water Supply System Interconnections and Management Areas ........................... 109
Figure IX-G – Ground Level Monitoring Wells ............................................................................. 110
Figure IX-H – Surface Water and Groundwater Interaction ........................................................ 111
Figure X-A – Current Zoning Map ................................................................................................ 114
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Tables
Table II-A – Forecasted Population, Housing, & Employment ....................................................... 10
Table II-B – Historical Population, Housing, & Employment .......................................................... 10
Table II-C – Median Age Comparison ............................................................................................. 13
Table II-D – Years Householder Has Lived in Unit, Percent of Total Households .......................... 14
Table II-E – Household Size and Number ....................................................................................... 14
Table II-F– Race of Scandia Residents in 2015 ............................................................................... 15
Table II-G – Existing Land Use ........................................................................................................ 16
Table II-H – Existing Net Residential Density (in Planned Land Use Categories) ........................... 18
Table II-I – Current Residential Allowed Density Ranges ............................................................... 18
Table II-J – Planned Land Use ......................................................................................................... 19
Table II-K – Planned Land Use Net Acres ....................................................................................... 22
Table II-L – Planned Land Use Development Characteristics ......................................................... 22
Table II-M – Residential Density Increase Calculations ................................................................. 27
Table II-N – Commercial/Industrial Increased Density Calculations .............................................. 27
Table II-O – Staging of Future Land Use Units/Jobs/Acres ............................................................ 28
Table III-A – Acreage of Known Deposits ....................................................................................... 30
Table IV-A – Solar Resource Calculations ....................................................................................... 35
Table VI-A – Housing Conditions .................................................................................................... 43
Table VI-B - Households Experiencing Cost Burden ....................................................................... 43
Table VI-C – Household Type ......................................................................................................... 44
Table VI-D – Age Distribution of Owners and Renters ................................................................... 46
Table VI-E – Affordable Housing Allocation ................................................................................... 50
Table VI-F – Housing Implementation ........................................................................................... 51
Table VII-A – Park Amenities by Location ...................................................................................... 62
Table VIII-A – “A” Minor Arterial Roadways .................................................................................. 75
Table VIII-B – Major and Minor Collector Roadways ..................................................................... 76
Table VIII-C – 2040 Scandia TAZ Data ............................................................................................ 82
Table VIII-D – Typical Traffic Capacity by Roadway Type/Configuration – Roadways in Scandia . 83
Table IX-A – Population, Housing, & Employment Sewer Allocation Forecasts ............................ 90
Table IX-B – Waterbodies within Scandia .................................................................................... 102
Table IX-C – CAMP Ratings for Lakes Within Scandia .................................................................. 103
Table IX-D – Impaired Water Bodies in Scandia........................................................................... 105
Table IX-E – Water Bodies Listed on Minnesota’s 303 List .......................................................... 105
Table IX-F – Future Surface Water Improvement Projects .......................................................... 106
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Table X-A – Zoning Districts ......................................................................................................... 115
Table X-B – Overlay Districts ........................................................................................................ 124
Table X-C – 2018 – 2022 Capital Improvement Plan ................................................................... 126
Appendix
Appendix A: Community Survey Results
Appendix B: Focus Group Notes
Appendix C: Comprehensive Trails Master Plan Report
Appendix D: Big Marine Park Reserve Official Map
Appendix E: Access Guidelines
Appendix F: City Ordinance 189 – Governance of Community Sewage Treatment System
Appendix G: Action Plan Worksheets
Appendix H: Full Surface Water Management Plan
Appendix I: Adjacent and Affected Jurisdiction Comments and Responses
Appendix J: Reports and Resolutions
Appendix K: NPDES Permits
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I. INTRODUCTION
A comprehensive plan defines the vision, goals, and aspirations of a community’s long-term
development. A strong plan can intricately shape land use and transportation patterns, develop ways
to conserve natural resources, and identify needs for housing, utilities, parks, and other community
facilities. These assessments then help the community make well-informed decisions on both public
and private infrastructure/facility investments for years to come.
The City of Scandia’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan is the vision of the community in 2040. It
provides an overview of the City of Scandia, including historical context, existing and future land
use, water and nature features, public facilities, transportation, population, housing, and
employment trends and forecasts. The
Comprehensive Plan contains goals,
objectives and policies to guide public and
private land use development,
redevelopment and preservation of all lands
and waters within the City and proposes an
implementation plan extending toward 2040.
These elements have been developed in
conjunction with the City’s tradition of
planning.
Purpose of the Plan
This Comprehensive Plan responds to the requirements of the Metropolitan Land Planning Act:
Minnesota Statutes, Section 473.859, and the Metropolitan Council’s Thrive MSP 2040. The
plan is intended to guide future land use development, redevelopment, and other planning and
policy concerns for the City of Scandia.
Vision, Goals and Policies
1. Vision and Overarching Goals
As a guiding element of this Comprehensive Plan update, the Steering Committee and the
Mayor of Scandia develop the following vision statement:
Scandia is known for its distinctive character and history. The City’s overall vision is to
maintain its rural character typified by the agricultural heritage and natural resources. In
2040, Scandia has an economically vibrant village center, which is home to a diverse
population that is surrounded by mix of natural resource and agricultural areas intermixed
with rural residential and lakeshore neighborhoods. As new development is proposed, the
emphasis will remain on the protection of rural, agricultural and natural resources.
The following four overarching goals for the City of Scandia expanded upon the above vision
and further guided the preparation of this Comprehensive Plan update:
• Maintain and promote the City’s cultural character and history.
Scandia includes several historical structures. The Gammelgarden museum in the Village
Center attracts people to learn about Minnesota history and Swedish immigration to
Minnesota. Rural buildings and sites endowed with Scandia’s history and identity are
preserved or incorporated into development and redevelopment while protecting their
historic integrity, and family farms can still be found within the City.
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• Maintain and promote a variety of land uses and residential densities while
maintaining Scandia’s existing agricultural and rural character.
Scandia has diverse land uses emphasizing its rural nature and natural landscape,
including agriculture, large lot and clustered rural residential housing, wooded areas,
scenic areas and open spaces, and recreational areas. The village center provides a variety
of housing types with community-scale commercial and industrial uses. Agricultural uses
in Scandia include traditional commodity production, smaller farms devoted to local
markets, and hobby farms. The mix of land uses in different parts of the City changes
with the geography, and is preserved and maintained by sound, intentional land use
policies.
• Preserve and protect the City’s natural resources.
Scandia is home to several high quality natural areas, lakes and the St. Croix River. The
City’s parks, trails, open space and recreation system preserves rural character and
protects natural beauty while offering opportunities for healthy lifestyles and recognizes
the City’s history. Sensitivity to the City’s green infrastructure – trails, green corridors,
natural areas and systems, surface and groundwater systems, scenic vistas, and night
skies – will continue to be a priority for all development and infrastructure
improvements. Periodic review of City ordinances to ensure development occurs with
adequate protection of sensitive areas is part of the City’s commitment to preserve and
protect valuable natural resources.
• Provide economic opportunities for residents and businesses.
Economic opportunities in the City continue to evolve. The City will seek solutions to
create economic opportunities for employment in Scandia and to provide needed services
for Scandia’s residents. The number of residents who are self-employed or work from
home will continue to increase. The nature of agriculture will change with a transition
from traditional commodities to smaller, more specialized agricultural operations serving
exclusively local markets.
2. Specific Goals and Policies
Goals and policies are official statements that provide the basis for development and
redevelopment strategies. Goals identify various objectives of the city in managing future
growth and protecting natural resources. Policies represent the official position of the city
with respect to implementation of goals. The general goals for each of the plan elements are
listed below. These goals and the corresponding policies are also included at the beginning
of their respective chapters.
Land Use
1) Preserve the rural, agricultural character of Scandia through zoning regulations,
ordinances, and site design standards
2) Manage land use to prevent the premature demand for extension of urban services
and in ways that allow existing service levels to meet service needs.
3) Ensure a variety of lot sizes to create affordable development opportunities to best
meet the needs of residents and businesses in Scandia.
4) Ensure agricultural uses are part of the community as a viable long-term land use.
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5) Allow for the safe and orderly extraction of aggregate resources now and in the
future while protecting sensitive resources on or near those properties and providing
for transitions to other uses when resource extraction is complete
Natural Resources
1) Protect natural resources and look for opportunities to connect large areas of open
space
2) Preserve high quality natural areas
3) Eliminate, reduce or mitigate the negative effects of invasive species on natural areas
4) Recognize and enhance publicly owned lands and improve public access to such
lands where appropriate.
5) Work with property owners to protect and preserve native, endangered, threatened
and unique plants and animals on privately owned land.
Resilience
1) Encourage the use of renewable, local and diverse forms of energy in order to
increase use of local resources, mitigate the local risk from fossil fuel scarcity and
price increases, and help meet Minnesota’s climate protection goals.
2) Encourage energy efficient housing that exceeds the minimum efficiency levels
required in the State building codes
3) Review the goals of the Minnesota GreenStep Cities Program. Implement GreenStep
Cities Best Practices as appropriate
Economic Competitiveness
1) Concentrate on retaining and expanding local businesses in and around the Village
Center and existing Rural Commercial districts.
2) Actively support the retention and expansion of Scandia community-scale
agricultural operations
3) Encourage home-based entrepreneurs and businesses
4) Expand access to internet services throughout the entire City.
Housing
1) Support a variety of housing types and densities for residential uses in and
surrounding the Village Center and other areas where appropriate.
2) Expand life-cycle housing opportunities for residents at all points of life.
3) Encourage a range of housing choices that fit with the character of the community
Parks and Trails
1) Develop an effective planning approach to developing and maintaining parks and
recreation areas and constructing and maintaining trails and routes to meet the needs
of City residents.
2) Develop a close working relationship with other agencies and groups to enhance the
parks and recreation facilities and develop trails and routes in the City.
3) Support a network of parks and trails to provide community-wide connections to
serve the health and welfare of the City’s residents.
4) Use park search areas and recreational facilities search areas and other natural
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resource information to guide and encourage park acquisition donations and potential
site acquisitions when property becomes available.
Transportation
1) As new development or redevelopment occurs, provide an integrated, internally-
connected, efficient street system connecting village and higher density
neighborhoods to the Village Center.
2) Establish context-sensitive roadway design standards that will protect the narrow and
heavily wooded character of identified low-traffic roadways.
3) Maintain Scandia’s system of local roadways that is well coordinated with MN DOT
and Washington County roadways.
4) Encourage the use of non-automotive modes of transportation.
5) Support the development of regional and local transit options.
6) Preserve the safety of regional air traffic
Water Resources
1) Preserve and protect the quantity and quality of surface water and groundwater.
2) Improve stormwater management and land stewardship practices.
3) Protect the natural and scenic resources of the St. Croix River Corridor, both within
and adjacent to the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway.
4) Ensure financial and environmental accountability for installation, maintenance,
remediation, and management of any permitted private wastewater system.
Background/History of the Community
1. History of the City
The City of Scandia is the site of the first Swedish settlement in Minnesota. Swedish
settlers Carl A. Fernstrom, Oscar Roos, and August Sandahl, arrived by boat at the Log
House Landing on the St Croix River in 1850. They hiked to their homesteads from the St
Croix & established a farm near Hay Lake. A monument inscribed with the names of the
first settlers stands near the site of the original log house, at Hay Lake Historic Corner,
about a mile-and-a-half south of the Scandia Village Center.
Many of the subsequent immigrants, a majority of them Swedish, settled in the area in the
1850’s, among them Nels Johan Johnson. Johnson was instrumental in the founding of
what is now Scandia. According to Anna Engquist’s book, Scandia Then and Now, another
early settler was Olof Olin who came from the province of Medelpad, Sweden. When Olin
arrived, he purchased land that comprised what became the original town of Scandia. Olin
would eventually go on to donate the land for Elim Church and cemetery in 1860, as well
as other locations spread throughout the city. Scandia would eventually grow to incorporate
other neighboring communities such as Copas (originally named Vasa) and Otisville. Now
marked only by a cluster of homes and the memories of older citizens.
The communities of Copas and Otisville formed close to the river but did not last as
permanent villages. Otisville, the community that grew up around the Log House Landing
in the 1850s was named after Henry Otis, a Civil War veteran and the son of Benjamin Otis
and a Native American mother. During the summer he lived in a small cabin on the river
across from Log House Landing. The log house at Log House Landing served as a public
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house during the years of Swedish immigration. From 1912 to the present it has been a
private residence.
Copas grew up just southwest of Otisville. The larger of the two settlements, it was the site
of more commercial development. It lay alongside the railroad tracks, just west of what is
now Highway 95 and once housed a lumberyard, hardware store, mill and elevator, and
potato warehouse, as well as the train station.
Elim Lutheran Church, founded May 19, 1854, was the most significant force in the
community, to the point that outsiders found it hard to see where the church ended, and the
community began. As the State of Minnesota grew, it had relatively little impact on
Scandia in either a social or a cultural sense. Not until the 1930s did Scandia gradually
allow English to take over as the dominant language instead of Swedish.
Starting in 1857 well into the twentieth century, Scandia was home to six schools which
were reflective of the small communities that grew up in what is today’s Scandia. A
number of these communities still identify as unique neighborhoods within the city. In the
northwest part of Scandia was Bone Lake School founded in 1860. The Tin Box or
Sunnyside School founded in 1866 was on the border of Washington and Chisago
Counties. Goose Lake School founded in 1858 was in the northern part of today’s Village
Center. Copas/Vasa School was founded in 1874 in the hamlet of Copas. Hay Lake School
founded in 1857 was just south of where the Swedish monument stands. Big Lake School
founded in 1877 was on the western side of Scandia. The Copas/Vasa School building still
stands, now as a retail gift shop. The Hay Lake School is today a Washington County
Historical Society museum.
As Scandia moved from strictly rural to semi-rural, the city changed. Due to the
Depression, banking moved out of Scandia. Over the years schools were consolidated so
countryside schools were closed. Farms increased in size as industrialized farming took
over, and better roads and state highways replaced the railroad, which eliminated the need
for the station in Copas. As automobiles improved and became common, Scandia residents
began to work jobs in the Twin Cities metropolitan area, and metropolitan residents moved
to Scandia in search of country living.
The formal government of Scandia was first formed in 1893 when New Scandia Township
was organized as a separate entity from Marine Township. Led by an elected town board of
supervisors, and eventually commission, the township remained in control until 1972 when
Scandia adopted the Washington County zoning code by reference. The County retained
final authority in zoning and subdivision matters after review by the Township Planning
Commission and Board until 1998 when the County required townships to provide their
own building inspections.
As a township, Scandia was vulnerable to annexation by surrounding cities and could not
control land use to the extent the town desired. On January 1, 2007, New Scandia
Township was incorporated as the City of Scandia. The first meeting of the new City
Council was held on January 2, 2007. The City of Scandia adopted its first Comprehensive
Plan on March 17, 2009.
2. Notable features and character of the community
Scandia is known for its rural setting and history. The historic village center remains,
including Elim Lutheran Church. The Scandia Community Center and the Gammelgarden
Museum are the centers of social community activities. Gammelgarden attracts people to
learn about Minnesota history and enjoy Swedish immigrant culture. Structures in the
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village are recognizable from old photos, and family farms can still be found within the
city. Rural commercial centers marking the sites of historic settlements still exist at Copas
on Highway 95 and near the Big Lake community on County Road 15.
3. Natural resources and geographic features
Scandia is home to several lakes and high quality wetlands. The St. Croix River runs along
the east boundary of the City. Scandia also includes many areas of prime agricultural land.
Process
Descriptive data about the City of Scandia was gathered through a variety of sources. These
data identified community assets, weaknesses, values, goals, and basic demographics of the
City.
• A series of public meetings and open houses was held between January 2017 and June
2018 to review the various issues addressed within the Comprehensive Plan.
• A survey was mailed to each household in the summer of 2017. The survey was also
available in online. The survey was partially funded by the Statewide Health
Improvement Partnership through a grant that was given to investigate and improve the
access to healthy food in the area. Questions in the survey asked basic demographic data
of the respondent, community assets and weaknesses, visions for the future, food access,
and investment priorities. Approximately 391 responses were collected, accounting for
about 20% of households in Scandia. Survey responses are provided in Appendix A.
• An interactive website was developed and remained active from January 2017 to
December 2018. Residents could view the previous 2030 land use plan and stay informed
about all public meetings and events regarding the comprehensive plan. All material from
steering committee meetings, open houses and Planning Commission discussions were
provided online.
• A steering committee was formed to inform the overall comprehensive process, engage a
full spectrum of the community from youth to seniors, and guide policy goals and
recommendations. The committee was comprised of key community leaders from public,
private, and government spheres. The committee met three times throughout the
comprehensive planning process.
• Three focus groups were held in June 2017 to gain perspectives and gather information
and insights from key stakeholders in the community. One group consisted of residents
who were 55 years old or older, another group represented businesses and the agricultural
community in Scandia, and the third consisted of students from Scandia Elementary
School. The format for each of the three groups was the same; the moderator asked
questions about the positive aspects of the City of Scandia, what the community is
missing, and what you would like to see in the city in 20 years. Focus groups also
brainstormed “big ideas” for the city, or what would you do in Scandia if there were no
restrictions. These results are summarized in Appendix B.
• Information about the Goals, Policies, and Recommendations section came from previous
comprehensive plans, the 2017 survey, Commission/Steering Committee Discussions,
public hearings, and review by adjacent communities and the Metropolitan Council.
Regional Setting
Scandia is located on roughly 39.7 square miles (25,425 acres) in Washington County. It is
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served by four A-minor arterial roads, TH 97, TH 95, CSAH 3, and CSAH 15; one major
collector, CSAH 1; and three minor collectors, CR 15A, CR 52, and CR 50/192nd Street. The
city neighbors Forest Lake, Hugo, May Township, and Marine on St. Croix within Washington
County, Chisago Lake Township and Franconia Township to the north in Chisago County, and
Farmington Township across the St. Croix River in Wisconsin.
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II. LAND USE
Land Use Goals and Objectives
Goal: Preserve the rural, agricultural character of Scandia through zoning regulations,
ordinances, and site design standards
Objectives:
• Conduct development in a manner that is sensitive to the impact upon natural
features and to environmental constraints, including but not limited to scenic
views, surface water, wetlands, slopes, woodlands, vegetation, drainage ways,
shorelands, and flood plain areas.
• Coordinate with property owners, other governmental units and agencies, and
developers to protect high quality natural areas and historic resources
• Encourage low-impact development techniques in new developments.
• Explore programs and development concepts that encourage creative methods to
preserve rural character and natural resources.
• Achieve compatible relationships between different types of land uses by utilizing
design standards, appropriate buffers, land use transitions and high-quality design
Goal: Manage land use to prevent the premature demand for extension of urban services and in
ways that allow existing service levels to meet service needs.
Objectives:
• Require that land proposed for development is served or will be able to be served
with adequate infrastructure, including sewage treatment systems, streets, and
storm water management systems.
• Require all new development be consistent with the Comprehensive Plan
Goal: Ensure a variety of lot sizes to create affordable development opportunities to best meet
the needs of residents and businesses in Scandia.
Objectives:
• Encourage greater density where appropriate to preserve natural features and areas.
• Ensure suitable land is available for potential commercial and industrial
employment and business opportunities.
Goal: Ensure agricultural uses are part of the community as a viable long-term land use.
Objectives:
• Encourage a variety of agricultural operations, including small-scale metropolitan
orientated agriculture, value-added production, and small scale agricultural-related
commercial uses.
• Encourage participation in the Agricultural Preserves Program through compatible
zoning districts and educational materials and resources
• Review current development regulations to allow compatible secondary uses such
as low density residential, commercial recreation, and agriculture-related
commercial in areas where agriculture is the predominant use.
Goal: Allow for the safe and orderly extraction of aggregate resources now and in the future
while protecting sensitive resources on or near those properties and providing for transitions to
other uses when resource extraction is complete.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
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Objectives:
• Implement performance standards for the management of existing mining
operations in order to minimize or prevent negative impacts to resources and
nearby land uses.
Community Designation
According to the Metropolitan Council, Scandia is designated as Diversified Rural in the
Metropolitan Area. Communities that are part of this designation contain a variety of
agricultural and non-agricultural land uses. These areas both protect rural, agricultural lands
while offering potential for future development. On average, development density in
Diversified Rural areas average to 4 units/40 acres. In the future, Diversified Rural
communities could face land use incompatibilities should future development occur and
urbanization expand. Some communities with the Diversified Rural designation are included in
the long-term service area expiation of the wastewater system from the Metropolitan Council,
but Scandia is not within that extension.
Figure II-A - Community Designation Map
While the Diversified Rural designation accurately describes the character and future vision for
much of the city, it does not meet all of Scandia’s needs or goals. Since the adoption of the last
Comprehensive Plan, it has become evident there is a need and desire to focus development in
specific areas of the city to both preserve agricultural and open spaces while fostering a sense
Source: Metropolitan Council
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
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of community and supporting both residential and commercial/economic development. To
achieve this, one area of the City of Scandia has been proposed to be designated as Rural
Center, shown in Figure II-B.
Rural Centers are local commercial, employment, and residential activity centers serving rural
areas in the region. The proposed Rural Center in Scandia is surrounded by agricultural lands
and serves as the center of commerce to surrounding farmlands and the accompanying
population. Rural Centers are expected to plan for higher-density commercial uses and
compatible higher-density residential land uses to ensure efficient uses of existing infrastructure
investments.
The proposed Rural Center already serves as a residential and commercial hub for the City of
Scandia and the region. Changing the Community Designation to Rural Centers acknowledges
the role this area already serves. This area will be guided for higher density development and
redevelopment, including residential, commercial, and retail, making use of existing
infrastructure and services in this location. This creates more opportunities for connected
neighborhoods and commercial centers while preserving large, contiguous areas of Scandia for
open space, agriculture, and outdoor recreational uses.
Forecasts
As of 2015, approximately 3,896 people lived in Scandia in roughly 1,518 households.
Projected populations, households, and employment are detailed in Table II-A, and historical
populations, households and employment are provided in Table II-B.
Table II-A – Forecasted Population, Housing, & Employment
2010 2015 2020 2030 2040
Population 3,934 3,896 4,260 4,630 4,950
Households 1,498 1,518 1,700 1,910 2,100
Employment 519 540 620 690 730
Source: Metropolitan Council and American Community Survey
Table II-B – Historical Population, Housing, & Employment
1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2015
Population 1,513 2,858 3,197 3,692 3,934 3,896
Households 408 851 1,060 1,294 1,498 1,518
Employment 40 50 387 272 519 540
Source: US Census
Scandia experienced rapid population growth throughout the 1970s, increasing the city’s total
population 89% in 10 years, providing an average of 8-9% annual growth. Many factors
contributed to Scandia’s growth between 1970 and 1980, including the completion of Interstate
35, improvement of county and state highways, inexpensive land, conversion of seasonal cabins
to year-round homes, and an influx of urbanites in search of a rural lifestyle. This also fueled
residential development, increasing the number of households in Scandia at similar rates. From
1980 to 1990, Scandia saw continued growth, averaging about 3% annual population growth.
Previous to this period of growth, Scandia’s population was relatively stable if not declining,
shifting from 941 in 1930 to 899 in 1950 as farm residents moved to more urban areas.
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Figure II-B – Proposed Rural Centers
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
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Population growth in Scandia has gradually slowed in more recent decades. From 1990 to 2000,
the population in Scandia grew 15% and only grew 6.5% from 2000 to 2010. Population
projections continue growth into 2040; the City of Scandia is anticipated to add about 1,000
more residents by 2040. Likewise, the number of anticipated households is anticipated to grow,
but at a much lower rate than previously experienced. However, this will be influenced by the
average number of persons per household, which has been decreasing region wide.
While population and household saw the most growth between 1970 and 1980, employment in
Scandia saw major growth between 1980 and 1990. Employment projections through 2040
show an average growth rate of 11% per decade, keeping pace with modest population
projections. The ability of the City of Scandia to accommodate more employment will depend
on the availability of services, expansion of mixed uses and commercial zoning areas, and
flexible use of agricultural land to meet future market demands.
Demographics
1. Age
Figure II-C shows the population of Scandia in 2015 separated by sex and age cohorts. The
population of Scandia trends to be considerably older than the region. The dominant age
groups within Scandia are 55 to 59 years old at roughly 13% of the population and 60 to 64
years old at 12% of the population. The number of youth in Scandia (under 20 years old) is
also low, representing about 21% of the total population. Figure II-D details the age
distribution of Scandia residents in 2015.
Figure II-C - Population by Age and Sex
Source: 2011-2015 American Community Survey
8%6%4%2%0%2%4%6%8%
Under 5
5 to 9
10 to 14
15 to 19
20 to 24
25 to 29
30 to 34
35 to 39
40 to 44
45 to 49
50 to 54
55 to 59
60 to 64
65 to 69
70 to 74
75 to 79
80 to 84
Over 85
Scandia Population Estimates by Age and Gender, 2015
Female
Male
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
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Figure II-D - Age Distribution
Comparing the median age in Scandia to surrounding municipalities and the State, Scandia
is considerably older with a median age of 51.7 years. Median ages of nearby
municipalities can be seen in Table II-C. The only community near Scandia with a similar
age distribution and median age is Marine on St. Croix. Stillwater has a median age 11.2
years younger and Forest Lake 14.5 years younger. Washington County as well has a
younger median average by 12.8 years and Minnesota as a whole is lower by 14 years.
Table II-C – Median Age Comparison
Municipality Median Age Difference from Scandia
Scandia 51.7 -
Marine on St. Croix 51.5 0.2
Stillwater 40.5 11.2
Forest Lake 37.2 14.5
Washington County 38.9 12.8
Minnesota 37.7 14.0
Source: 2011-2015 American Community Survey
2. Housing Tenure
Scandia residents have a history of living in the community for several years. In 2015, over
62% of residents lived in their homes for more than 15 years. The largest group of
householders had lived in their house for 6 to 15 years (about 32% of all householders).
Scandia has higher proportions of residents living in their home for over 15 years,
compared to the average for Washington County, shown in Table II-D.
4.5%4.0%
4.7%
7.6%
4.9%
3.9%
3.3%3.5%
5.9%5.6%
9.9%
12.8%
12.1%
6.6%6.8%
2.2%
1.4%
0.4%
0%
2%
4%
6%
8%
10%
12%
14%
Un
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r
5
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9
10
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9
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9
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75
t
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7
9
80
t
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8
4
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r
8
5
Age Distribution, 2015
Source: 2011-2015 American Community Survey
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
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Table II-D – Years Householder Has Lived in Unit, Percent of Total Households
Years in Unit Scandia Washington County
1-5 years 6.3% 16.3%
6-15 years 31.8% 43.1%
16-25 years 25.3% 21.5%
26-35 years 19.2% 9.4%
36 years + 17.5% 9.7%
Source: 2011-2015 American Community Survey
3. Household Size and Number
As shown in Table II-A – Forecasted Population, Housing, & Employment, there were
approximately 1,476 households in Scandia in 2015. The number of households is
projected to increase into 2040. The number of households in Scandia has increased at a
rate greater than the population for the last 45 years. This is due in part to the gradual
decrease in the average number of persons per household, which is noted in Table II-E. The
average number of persons per household is also influenced by age and general socio-
economic status of Scandia residents.
Table II-E – Household Size and Number
Year 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2015
Number of Households 408 851 1,060 1,294 1,498 1,476
Persons per Household 3.87 3.36 3.02 2.84 2.61 2.61
Household type also influences the average number of persons per household. In 2015, the
majority of households in Scandia consisted of families without children, shown in Figure
II-E. Approximately 20% of all households in Scandia have children, which aligns with
Community Survey responses (See Appendix A). The large percentage of families without
children is atypical; about 36% of households in Washington County are families without
children.
Figure II-E – Household Types in Scandia
63%11%
17%
6%
3%
Household Type in Scandia, 2015
Families without children
Lived alone
Married families with
children
Non-family households
Unmarried families with
children
Source: Metropolitan Council Tabulation of 2011-2015 American Community Survey
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4. Race/Ethnicity of Population
Table II-F shows the racial composition of Scandia residents in 2015. About 97% of
Scandia’s population identified as “White alone,” with all other racial groups made up the
remaining 3% of the population. About 8% of the city’s population identified as Hispanic
or Latino. American Community Survey data for 2011-2015 are estimates, meaning the
margin of error, especially for small sample sizes, is high. As a comparison, only 1% of the
city’s population identified as Hispanic or Latino in the 2010 census.
Table II-F– Race of Scandia Residents in 2015
Race Percent of Population
White 97.2%
Black 0.7%
American Indian/Alaskan Native 0.9%
Asian 0%
Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander 0%
Some Other Race 0.4%
Two or More Races 0.8%
Source: American Community Survey, 2011-2015
5. Education
Scandia residents are becoming increasingly educated. Since 2000, the number of Scandia
residents age 25 and older with some level of college education has increased while the
number of residents with a high school education or less has decreased.
7%
32%
24%
8%
20%
8%
3%
28%
24%
13%
23%
9%
0%5%10%15%20%25%30%35%
Did not graduate high school
High school graduate
Some college, no degree
Associate degree
Bachelor degree
Graduate/professional degree
Highest Level of Education Obtained in Scandia
2015 2000
Figure II-F – Education Level
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Summary
• Scandia has an older population than the rest of Washington County. The ability of the city
and the County to provide services will impact the ability of residents to age in place.
• Scandia has a large number of two-person households, which is likely attributed to the large
number of older residents. Only 1 in 5 homes in Scandia has children, which will impact
schools, services, and future population growth of the city.
• Scandia’s population remains fairly homogenous, though the number of residents identifying
as Hispanic/Latino has increased.
• Residents are becoming increasingly educated, which may influence the desired types of
employment and median household incomes.
Existing Land Use
A large portion of land in the City of Scandia is currently undeveloped, about 41% of total
acreage in the city. The most prominent land use in the city is agriculture, making up about a
quarter of land in Scandia. Open water makes up 13% of land in Scandia, and residential uses
make up about 10% of the city’s total land. Figure II G shows the existing land uses in the City.
Table II-G further details current land use in Scandia.
Table II-G – Existing Land Use
Land Use Gross Acres Percent of Total
Agricultural 6,425.5 25%
Extractive1 197 1%
Farmstead 218.7 1%
Golf Course 17 0.07%
Industrial and Utility 11 0.04%
Institutional 46.6 0.2%
Mixed Use Residential 13 0.05%
Multifamily 3 0.01%
Open Water 3,252 12.8%
Park, Recreational, or Preserve 2,147 8%
Railway 73 0.3%
Retail and Other Commercial 34.8 0.1%
Seasonal/Vacation 70.7 0.3%
Single Family Attached 9.5 0.04%
Single Family Detached 2,610 10.3%
Undeveloped 10,347 41%
Total 25,475 100%
Source: Metropolitan Council Data, 2016
1 Extractive includes areas that identified on an aerial photo as currently mined or mined in the past.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
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Figure II-G – Existing Land Use
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
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Table II-H identifies the number of existing housing units in each land use category.
Table II-H – Existing Net Residential Density (in Planned Land Use Categories)
Planned Land Use
Category
Single
Family
Number
of Units
Multi-
Family
Number
of Units
Acres
Gross
Residential
Acres Development
Constraints
(wetlands, parks,
ROW, etc.)
Net
Residential
Acres
Net Density
Units/Acre
A B C D E=C-D (A+B)/E
Agricultural Core 229 0 6,953 731 6,221 0.04
General Rural 881 30 9,679 1,232 8,447 0.11
Rural Mixed Use 110 0 419 150 269 0.41
St. Croix River District 60 0 681 114 567 0.11
Village Neighborhood 133 0 1,480 150 1,330 0.10
Village Mixed Use 65 0 287 18 269 0.24
Recreation Area
Protected 10 0 2,132 1,566 567 0.02
Total 1,488 30 21,632 3,962 17,671 0.09
Source: Washington County Parcel Data
In October of 2022, Scandia adopted a new Unified Development Code to replace the existing
zoning and subdivision ordinances. With this change, districts have been renamed and
modified. Scandia’s Unified Development Code, which includes both zoning and subdivision
standards, specifies maximum density for various residential development. Based on these
requirements, Table II-I shows the number of housing units per acre that can be developed
under current zoning regulations. These densities are anticipated to remain the same in
corresponding future land uses. Most large lot residential zoning districts require lots to be a
minimum of two acres, and all zoning districts have a maximum lot coverage of 25%. Bonus
densities in the Village Neighborhood District allow up to one dwelling unit per acre. This is
done to make efficient use of existing resources in Village Neighborhood and to guide
residential development to these areas to help preserve agricultural lands and open spaces from
development.
Table II-I – Current Residential Allowed Density Ranges
Land Use Category Units/Acres
(Ordinance Standards)
St. Croix River District 4/40
Agricultural Preserve 1/40
Agriculture Core 4/40
Rural Residential General and Rural Residential
Neighborhood 4/40
Village Neighborhood 4/40
Village – Historic Center 5/1
Village Center 5/1
When density is regulated by a ratio that references 40 acres, those 40 acres shall be the area
defined by the Public Land Survey as Quarter-Quarter Sections. Until sewer improvements are
made, zoning in the Rural Mixed Use area will remain Rural Residential General.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
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The zoning code for the City of Scandia provides a maximum lot coverage for commercial and
industrial development. The Metropolitan Council has provided estimates for the number of
employees per square feet in various employment types; rates range from 556 square feet per
job at the low end (medical clinics) to 2,500 square feet per job at the high end (hotels). Using
the city’s lot coverage allowance as guidance, an estimate of jobs/square foot can be estimated
to project future employment based on future land use designations and planned development.
The Village – Historic Center District allows a maximum lot coverage of 80 percent. The
Village Center District allows a maximum lot coverage of 35 percent. The Rural Commercial
District, and Industrial Park District both allow a maximum lot coverage of 65 percent.
Future Land Use
The 2040 Land Use Map (Figure II-H) shows the desired land use for all property in Scandia.
Table II-J summarizes the planned land uses by category shown on the map. The planned future
land uses shown on this map reflect previous community planning efforts as well as desired
updates identified as part of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update process.
Table II-J – Planned Land Use
Land Use Gross Acres Percent of Total Area
Agricultural Core 6,953 27%
General Rural 9,679 38%
Mining 443 1.7%
Rural Commercial 75 0.3%
Rural Mixed Use 419 1.6%
St. Croix River District 681 2.7%
Village Neighborhood 1,480 5.8%
Village Mixed Use 287 1.1%
Recreation Area Protected 2,132 8.4%
Open Water 3,252 12.8%
Railway 73 0.3%
Total 25,475 100%
Future land use designations were determined by a variety of factors, including an analysis of
existing land use, the current land use plan, and development constraints. Factors impacting
development include:
• Existing regional parks, Wildlife Management Areas, and Scenic and Natural Areas;
• Steep slopes;
• Wetlands and waterbodies;
• Roads, railroads, and the Regional Bike Trail Network;
• Shoreland and flood plain;
• Agricultural Preserves; and
• Prime farmland.
Figure II-I maps development constraints in the City of Scandia
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
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Figure II-H – Planned Land Use
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Figure II-I – Development Constraints
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
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Table II-K summarizes the developable land available by decade in future land uses
classifications. Non-developable land includes areas that cannot be developed, such as
wetlands, steep slopes, and the road right-of-way, as well as existing development.
Development is forecasted for each decade at existing land use densities, adding to the amount
of non-developable land in each land use. Forecasted development is based on projected
housing and employment needs (as projected in Table II-B, Forecasted Population, Households
and Employment), minimum lot sizes by each land use district and an anticipated allocation of
the projected housing development between each of the land use districts. The planned future
land uses shown on this map reflect previous community planning efforts as well as desired
updates identified as part of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update process.
Table II-K – Planned Land Use Net Acres
Planned Land Use
Category
2015 (Current) 2020 2030 2040
De
v
e
l
o
p
a
b
l
e
No
n
-
De
v
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p
a
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e
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v
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e
No
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v
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n
-
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No
n
-
De
v
e
l
o
p
a
b
l
e
Acres Acres Acres Acres Acres Acres Acres Acres
Agricultural Core 5688 1265 5588 1365 5488 1465 5388 1565
General Rural 6121 3559 5710 3969 5310 4369 4903 4776
Mining 262 181 262 181 262 181 262 181
St. Croix River District 296 385 206 475 106 575 6 675
Rural Commercial 45 30 44 32 42 34 41 35
Rural Mixed Use 269 150 269 150 269 150 195 224
Village Mixed Use 125 162 109 178 88 199 67 220
Village Neighborhood 1,080 400 780 700 430 1,050 200 1,280
Open Water 0 3,252 0 3,252 0 3,252 0 3,252
Recreation Area Protected 0 2132 0 2132 0 2132 0 2132
Railway 0 73 0 73 0 73 0 73
Total 13,887 11,589 12,968 12,507 11,995 13,480 11,062 14,413
To meet projected housing needs, it is anticipated homes will be developed in the following
percentages in each respective land use district.
Table II-L – Planned Land Use Development Characteristics
Land Use Percent of Anticipated Housing Units
Agricultural Core 5%
General Rural 21%
Rural Mixed Use 5%
St. Croix River District 5%
Village Neighborhood 60.4%
Village Mixed Use 3.4%
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 23
The following land use descriptions will be used for planning purposes and correspond to the
planned land use designations on the Planned Land Use Map.
a) Agricultural Core
The Agricultural Core district is established to protect and preserve land for long-term
agricultural production. Over time, the nature of agricultural production in Scandia will
most likely change from traditional dairy farms to specialty agriculture and agriculture
production for local/metropolitan markets. Residential development compatible with
agriculture uses (4 per 40 density) and parks will be a secondary land use in this
district. This designation corresponds with the Agricultural Core zoning district in the
current zoning ordinance. The City’s zoning and subdivision ordinance should allow
density bonuses of up to 75% for single-family developments if providing community
value through agricultural land protection, life-cycle housing, natural resource
protection or other amenities.
b) General Rural
The General Rural area land use category is a residential area of mixed lot sizes. It
recognizes areas of Scandia that have been developed in the past at densities of ten acre
or less and areas that have larger parcels still used for agriculture. The area includes 10-
acre parcels, but also a number of existing smaller parcels and some parcels enrolled in
the Agricultural Preserves Program. Single-family residential dwellings are the primary
land use for the General Rural area at densities of 4 units per 40 acres in the same
Quarter-Quarter Section. Secondary land uses include agricultural production,
including small-scale production, parks and recreation, and public and private
institutions. Recreational commercial uses are allowed as a conditional use. This
designation corresponds with the Rural Residential General and Rural Residential
Neighborhood District in the current zoning ordinance. The City’s zoning and
subdivision ordinance should allow density bonuses of up to 75% for single-family
developments if providing community value through agricultural land protection, life-
cycle housing, natural resource protection or other amenities.
c) Village Mixed Use
This land use category recognizes the significant contribution of the existing village
center to the overall character of the community. New commercial, retail, and
residential activity will be encouraged in order to develop and redevelop areas in the
village center while maintaining the historic nature of the village center. Primary land
uses in the Village Mixed Use area include commercial, office, retail, public and
private institutions, civic buildings, light industrial, and parks and recreation.
Residential uses, including single family homes, townhouses and multi-family
buildings, will be a secondary use. Multi-family buildings in the village center will
achieve the goal of diversifying the housing options for younger families, seniors, and
singles. Future lot sizes will be similar to the existing mix of lot sizes in the village
center. In order to support these relatively small lot sizes, community sewer systems
are anticipated. This designation corresponds with the Village-Historic Core and
Village Center Districts, in the current zoning ordinance. Higher densities up to five
units per acre may be permitted depending on the ability of the site and/or system to
manage wastewater. The City’s zoning and subdivision ordinance should allow density
bonuses of up to 75% for single-family developments if providing community value
through agricultural land protection, life-cycle housing, natural resource protection or
other amenities. This is consistent with existing multi-unit developments like Oakhill
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
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Cottages. While exact proportions of uses will be dependent on development, it is
anticipated the Village Mixed Use District will have roughly 60 percent
commercial/office/retail uses and 40 percent residential uses.
d) Village Neighborhood
The Village Neighborhood area is a planned extension of the existing Village Center,
located adjacent to and north and west of the Village Center. This land use category
designates a growth area surrounding the village and is intended to support single and
multi-family residential uses on lot sizes reflective of the existing village lot sizes. This
corresponds with the Village Neighborhood District in the current zoning ordinance.
The primary land use for the Village Neighborhood area will be small-lot, single-
family residential uses. Public and private institutions, civic buildings, and parks and
recreation uses will also be allowed. Townhomes and multi-family units will be
allowed as an incentive for providing community value through agricultural land
protection, life-cycle housing, or natural resource protection. New development in the
Village Neighborhood District will be at a density of 4 units per 40 acres in the same
Quarter-Quarter Section. A community sewer system may be necessary in order to
allow for lot sizes similar to existing village lots. By concentrating development in the
Village Neighborhood area, the City of Scandia hopes to protect agricultural and
natural resource areas from development pressure. Higher densities up to one unit per
1.5 acre may be permitted on a case by case basis, depending on the land use intensity
and the ability of the site and/or system to manage wastewater. The City’s zoning and
subdivision ordinance should allow density bonuses of up to 75% for single-family
developments if providing community value through agricultural land protection, life-
cycle housing, natural resource protection or other amenities. This is consistent with
existing multi-unit developments like the Oakhill Cottages.
e) Rural Commercial
The Rural Commercial future land use area is intended to support commercial
development in places of historic commercial activity. These areas are the only
commercial areas anticipated outside of the Village Center and are intended to
complement Village Center commercial uses. Rural Commercial areas are designated at
the historic commercial nodes of the Big Marine Store, Copas/Abrahamson Nurseries,
and the intersection of Highways 95 and 97. Commercial uses reflecting the historic
nature of the community and compatible with the surrounding rural character will be
allowed on lot sizes of at least 2 acres. Because this future land use area builds upon
historic character, commercial building design standards shall reflect the historic nature
of the community. This corresponds with the Rural Commercial District in the current
zoning ordinance.
f) Rural Mixed Use
The Rural Mixed Use area is located to the west of Big Marine Lake. This is a new
land use category and is intended to allow for single-family residential development
connected to the Big Marine Store rural commercial area. Single family residential
would be at a maximum density of 4 units per 40 acres. Some civic buildings, small
commercial, and parks and recreation uses will also be allowed. It is anticipated the
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
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Rural Mixed Use District will have roughly 85 percent residential uses and 15 percent
commercial or civic uses.
Improvements to the existing community system are necessary to permit higher density
in this area. Until that occurs, new development will be limited in this area. The City of
Scandia’s Unified Development Code includes lack of adequate sewage treatment
systems as a condition of premature development within the City, which shall not be
approved by City Council. Until the sewer is improved, the current Rural Residential
General zoning district will remain in place, preserving land at residential densities of 4
units/40 acres to be consistent with the Diversified Rural community designation.
Upgrades and improvements to the community system will occur alongside new
development in the area. The presence of wetlands and the additional regulations of the
shoreland overlay district, which covers many parcels in this area of the City, will
likely be constraining factors for both new development and sewer improvements.
However, it is the intention of the City of Scandia to encourage development and
higher densities in this area once improvements to the community sewer are made. To
that end, the City will work to amend the zoning ordinance and comprehensive plan as
needed to implement higher densities and land use once the infrastructure is sufficient.
g) St. Croix River District
The St. Croix River District recognizes the unique historical and natural resource
aspects of the floodplain and bluffs of the shoreland area of the St. Croix River. This
area includes historic crossroad and seasonal home communities, parkland, river
access, and areas protected under scenic easements held by the National Park Service.
The mapped area east of State Highway 95 corresponds to land areas protected under
federal wild and scenic river designation. The future of this area includes limited
residential development that protects the natural and scenic shoreland areas, and public
and private protected lands. This corresponds with the Lower St. Croix River Corridor
Overlay District in the current zoning ordinance.
New development in the St. Croix River District will be at a density of 4 units per 40
acres. Smaller lots may be permitted through the use of open space conservation
subdivisions but may not exceed maximum densities. Viewsheds should be considered
and protected in the siting of structures and driveways.
h) Recreation Area Protected
The Recreation Area Protected land use category includes publicly owned lands
permanently protected from development. This designation recognizes that these areas
will continue to be used for recreation or open space only and not developed. If
recreation facilities are developed within these areas, priority natural resource areas
shall be protected. In addition, priority natural resources should be restored and
enhanced wherever possible within protected recreation areas. This designation
corresponds with the Agricultural Preserves, Agricultural Core, and Rural Residential
General Districts in the zoning ordinance.
i) Mining
The Mining area includes areas in the City of Scandia with active, permitted mining
operations. Mining activity is anticipated to continue in these areas in the future.
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Mining uses must comply with local and state extractive use regulations and
reclamation shall restore the topography and natural resources of the site to a level such
that the land is suitable for the planned future land uses such as agriculture or
residential. This corresponds with the Aggregate Mining Overlay District in the current
zoning ordinance.
The following overlay district will also guide land uses in specific, sensitive areas:
• Agriculture Preserves Overlay District (AP)
The Agricultural Preserves Overlay plans for the continuation of the Agricultural Preserves
Program is Scandia. This overlay is intended to encourage the continuation of agriculture
through ensuring the availability of the Program to qualifying agricultural landowners.
The Agricultural Preserves Overlay lies over the primary agricultural future land use area,
the Agricultural Core Area. The Agricultural Preserves Overlay allows individual property
owners within Scandia to continue to participate in the Agricultural Preserves Program.
This voluntary program for landowners within the seven-county metropolitan area allows
individuals to place their properties under a restrictive covenant committing their property
to agricultural use in exchange for certain benefits. These benefits include a special tax rate
calculated based on agricultural value rather than market value, a property tax credit,
protection of normal farm practices, and protection against special assessments for public
improvement projects.
While the underlying zoning district (Agricultural Core Area) allows four dwellings per 40
acres, parcels enrolled in the Agricultural Preserves Program and located within the
Agricultural Preserves Overlay shall be allowed only 1 unit per 40 acres per program
requirements.
Additional details on the corresponding zoning districts are included on Table X-A in the
Implementation chapter.
1. Density Calculations
Based on the above future land use plan and land use calculations, residential and
commercial land use requirements have been calculated to help Scandia plan for and meet
Metropolitan Council projections for population, households, and employment. Residential
calculations are detailed in Table II-M and commercial calculations are detailed in
Table II-N.
Residential
To meet forecasted 2040 population and household projections, the City of Scandia will
need to add 582 housing units by 2040. These calculations show the number of acres
needed to accommodate all needed housing units in each zoning district. Residential
development is anticipated to take place in all residential zoning districts in an orderly
manner consistent with the staging plan, discussed below. These calculations do not include
any density bonuses which may be allowed per the Unified Development Code through
special approvals such as Planned Unit Developments. Actual acreage needed to
accommodate future households and their locations will be influenced by market forces.
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Table II-M – Residential Density Increase Calculations
Future Land Use
Permitting Residential Use
Density
(Units/Acre)
Desired
Distribution
Number of
Households
Acres
Needed
Current (2015)
Developable Acres
Agricultural Core 4/40 5% 30 300 5,688
General Rural 4/40 21% 122 1,220 6,121
St. Croix River Corridor 4/40 5% 29 290 296
Rural Mixed Use 4/40 5% 7 73 269
Village Neighborhood 4/40 7.8% 44 440 1,080 1/1.5 55% 308 462
Village Mixed Use 5/1 3.4% 20 4 125
Total 100% 560 2,789 13,889
Commercial
To meet forecasted 2040 employment projections, the City of Scandia will need to add 190
jobs by 2040. These calculations show the number of acres needed to accommodate all
needed new jobs in each zoning district. Based on guided land use and available
developable acres, Scandia has sufficient available vacant land to meet employment
projections based on development in the Village Mixed Use (commercial/industrial) Rural
Commercial, and Rural Mixed Use (both commercial) districts. Actual acreage needed to
accommodate jobs will greatly depend on the types of businesses starting or expanding in
Scandia. These calculations also do not include remote telecommuting, home occupations,
or permitted employment opportunities in agricultural zoning districts, all of which will
influence the number of acres needed to accommodate employment in Scandia.
Table II-N – Commercial/Industrial Increased Density Calculations
Zoning
Districts
Density Range
(Jobs/Acre) Desired
Distribution
Number
of Jobs
Minimum
Acres
Maximum
Acres
Current (2015)
Developable
Acres Minimum Maximum
Village
Mixed Use 14 62.4 60% 114 1.8 8.1 125
Rural
Commercial 11.4 50.7 30% 57 1.1 5 46
Rural
Mixed Use 11.4 50.7 10% 19 0.4 1.7 269
Total - - 100% 190 3.3 14.8 440
2. Staged Development or Redevelopment
The goal of a Staging Plan is to manage growth and guide the orderly and cost-effective
provision of infrastructure at a rate that is consistent with forecasted growth, at the same
time responding appropriately to market conditions. Table II-O identifies the staging of
future growth in Scandia. This table indicates the anticipated timing and sequence of
growth. It identifies the developable acres, number of housing units and jobs that may be
developed in each 10-year planning period. The table is not intended to limit or to compel
growth in any specific area within the planning period. Rather, it is an estimation of where
growth may logically occur.
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A staging plan cannot force development to occur but can be used as a tool to guide
development appropriately. In many cases, cities choose to stage and time growth in an
orderly and contiguous manner; however, there is nothing about adopting a staged growth
plan that forces any private property owner to sell or develop their land before they wish to
do so. The City of Scandia will make development decisions based on existing and
development of new infrastructure, land capacity and market conditions.
Table II-O – Staging of Future Land Use Units/Jobs/Acres
Outside Urban
Service Area
Average Density
Range Housing
Existing
Developable
(2015)
2020 2030 2040
Residential Units/Acre Acres Units Acres Units Acres Units Acres
Agricultural Core 0.1 5,688 10 100 10 100 10 100
General Rural 0.1 6,121 41 410 40 400 41 410
Rural Mixed Use 0.1 269 0 0 0 0 7 73
St. Croix River District 0.1 296 9 90 10 100 10 100
Village Mixed Use 0.4 125 5 13 7 18 8 20
Village Neighborhood 0.4 1,080 120 300 140 350 92 230
Average Density for New Development 560 units/2,789 = 0.20 units/acre
Non-Residential Estimated
Employment/Acre
Developable
Acres Jobs Acres Jobs Acres Jobs Acres
Village Mixed Use 14 62.4 125 53 3.8 50 3.6 11 0.8
Rural Commercial 11.4 50.7 46 27 2.4 20 1.8 10 0.9
Rural Mixed Use 11.4 50.7 269 0 0 0 0 19 1.67
Average Density for New Development 190 jobs/14.8 acres = 12.8 jobs/acre
One of the main desires of this comprehensive plan is to preserve and augment the
community character and history in Scandia. To support the Village Center, the social and
economic heart of the city, infill development will be encouraged in vacant or underutilized
lots. This will help encourage a vibrant Village Center and surrounding residential
neighborhoods while utilizing existing infrastructure, guiding development and
redevelopment in an orderly manner. The expansion of the Village zoning districts will
occur as market conditions allow.
The implementation of the Rural Mixed Use district west of Big Marine Lake will be
contingent upon infrastructure repairs or upgrades. Most homes in this area are currently
served by community sewer, which is aging and to the point of needing repairs. The City of
Scandia is currently assessing options to best provide wastewater services to this portion of
the city, discussed more in Chapter VI. Development in this area of the city should be
aligned with future wastewater plans and investments.
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III. NATURAL RESOURCES
Scandia’s original vegetation was the result of glacial processes that created the topographic
landscape features and soil types. As the landscape was modified during settlement and
development, most areas with soils suitable for crop production were cleared for planting. Natural
areas on steep slopes, hydric soils, and poor soils were left alone or used as pasture. This has led to
Scandia’s current landscape - a mosaic of agricultural lands, residential and commercial
development, and areas of natural vegetated cover.
As development continues, plans to manage future growth should be based on a thorough
understanding of the natural resources within the city’s boundaries. The purpose of this section is to
summarize available information regarding natural resources in the City of Scandia and to discuss
the relationship between natural resources and land use planning. Water resources, such as lakes,
rivers, and streams, are discussed in detail in the Water Resources Chapter.
Natural Resources Goals and Objectives
Goal: Protect natural resources and look for opportunities to connect large areas of open space.
Objectives:
• Coordinate with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and Washington
County on plans for the long-term acquisition and development of William O’Brien
State Park and Big Marine Park Reserve.
• Prioritize the preservation and treatment of open space in planning and review of
all types of development within the City.
Goal: Preserve high quality natural areas
Objectives:
• Work with property owners seeking to utilize Transfer of Development Rights and
Purchase of Development Rights, as appropriate, to obtain and protect high quality
natural areas while compensating landowners who give up development rights to
meet community land use and natural resource goals.
Goal: Eliminate, reduce or mitigate the negative effects of invasive species on natural areas
Objectives:
• Provide educational resources and materials to residents and businesses regarding
invasive species.
Goal: Recognize and enhance publicly owned lands and improve public access to such lands where
appropriate.
Objectives:
• Promote preservation and restoration of publicly owned and other lands
permanently protected from development through education and cooperation with
other governmental agencies and community groups.
• Improve designated physical access to the St. Croix River corridor and other
important or high quality natural areas where public lands may provide access
opportunities while preserving natural and historical integrity.
• Encourage for the preservation and establishment of scenic views throughout the
City.
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Goal: Work with property owners to protect and preserve native, endangered, threatened and
unique plants and animals on privately owned land.
Objectives:
• Provide educational resources and materials to residents and businesses regarding
invasive species.
• Encourage connections to high quality natural areas through natural corridors on
private land in order to allow for wildlife movement among habitats as part of
development.
Aggregate Resources
In 2000, the Metropolitan Council, the Department of Natural Resources, and the Minnesota
Geological Survey collaborated on an aggregate resource inventory of the seven-county
metropolitan area. The inventory identified and categorized likely areas of dolostone deposits,
and sand and gravel deposits. Areas identified as “dolostone” represent significant potential
deposits of Prairie du Chien dolostone suitable for crushed aggregate with less than 10 feet of
overburden. The sand and gravel deposits are classified into three categories according to type
and quality (based on percent of gravel content), thickness of deposit, amount of overlying
material, relationship to water table, and reliability of the mapping. Table III-A summarizes the
estimated areas of the dolostone deposits and the categories of sand and gravel deposits found
in the City of Scandia. Aggregate resource deposits are shown on Figure III-A – Natural and
Special Resources.
Table III-A – Acreage of Known Deposits
Deposit Type Size (in acres)
Dolostone 62
Sand & Gravel Deposit, good to excellent quality 649
Sand & Gravel Deposit, moderate to good quality 254
Regionally Significant Natural Areas
The MN DNR completed an analysis of regionally significant Terrestrial and Wetland
Ecological Areas in the seven-county metropolitan area in 2004. The analysis assessed
remaining forest, grassland, and wetland areas. The scores were determined by examining
important ecological attributes of the natural areas, including size, shape, cover type diversity,
and adjacent land use. This analysis was included in the previous comprehensive plan and is
maintained here to inform and guide the city’s land use, as protecting natural resources is one
of the city’s four overarching goals for the future. These areas are shown in Figure III-A.
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Figure III-A - Natural and Special Resources
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Special Resource Protection
1. Agriculture Preserve
The Agriculture Preserves District (AP) plans for the continuation of the Agricultural
Preserves Program is Scandia. This land use district is intended to encourage the
continuation of agriculture through ensuring the availability of the program to qualifying
agricultural landowners. While Scandia plans for long-term agriculture through the use of
the Agricultural Preserve Program, it is the choice of a landowner to enroll in the
Agricultural Preserves Program. The Agricultural Preserves Program has set requirements,
including maximum housing densities, that determine the eligibility of parcels to enroll in
the program. Parcels zoned as Agricultural Core in the Future Land Use (see Figure II-F -
Future Land Use) meet the density requirements to qualify to enroll in the Agricultural
Preserve Program. Participating parcels as of 2014 are shown in Figure II-G.
2. Historic Protections
a) National Register of Historic Places
John Copas House: The John Copas House was built in 1880 on the site of an 1857
homestead. It was the home of John Copas, an early settler, merchant, and farmer. John
was also a founding member of the Copas community. The home is currently used as a
single family dwelling. It is located in the southeast corner of Scandia on Highway 95.
Johannes Erickson House: The Johannes Erickson House is a log dwelling with a
gambrel style rook. The house was built in 1868 by Swedish immigrant Erickson. The
house is part of the Gammelgarden Museum.
Hay Lake School: The Hay Lake School is a brick school with bell tower. The school
was built in 1895 by Scandia residents and was Scandia’s first school. Hay Lake
School served as the community’s school until services were moved to Elim Church.
The building is currently run by the Washington County Historical Society as a
museum and is located on County Road 3 and Old Maine Trail.
b) Historic Settlements
Scandia Village Center: The Village Center is literally and figuratively the heart of
the community. The street pattern is characterized by triangles formed by converging
major roads at a high point between valleys, interconnected by a grid of local streets.
Local landmarks include historic commercial buildings, Elim Lutheran Church and
cemetery, and the Gammelgarden Museum. Cultural and civic activities focus on the
same buildings as well as the Community Center and park. The Village Center is
architecturally diverse with a variety of early 20th-century commercial building types,
the 1850’s Swedish Farmhouse style museum and its outbuildings, and the Gothic
Revival style of the church, built in 1931. The formal gardens of the Elim Cemetery
offer an attractive site for community events.
Copas: Once a free-standing village centered on a Soo Line railroad depot (the railroad
between the Twin Cities and Duluth located west of Highway 95), Copas is now a
largely residential hamlet with a few historic and commercial buildings fronting State
Highway 95. The majority of the remaining buildings are located on a number of tree-
lined residential streets that parallel the St. Croix River.
Former Hamlets and Historical Localities: Otisville, Big Lake, and Panola (a post
office located just north of the city boundary) were all rural settlements of the region,
but few traces of these communities remain. The Log House Landing site near the
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former hamlet of Otisville remains as a public water access. The Big Lake School and
Goose Lake School sites also remain, harkening to Scandia’s and the region’s history.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Resilience
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IV. RESILIENCE
Resiliency in planning and development helps to ensure the prosperity, livability, equity, and
sustainability of a community for future generations. Resilience planning focuses on all aspects of
community, ensuring the economy, the environment, and social/living conditions are vibrant and
upheld through adversity.
Resilience Goals and Policies
Goal: Encourage the use of renewable, local and diverse forms of energy in order to increase use of
local resources, mitigate the local risk from fossil fuel scarcity and price increases, and help meet
Minnesota’s climate protection goals.
Objectives:
• Encourage the use of alternative renewable heating fuels as biomass while
establishing standards to limit nuisances associated with such systems.
• Encourage the use of alternative fuels and alternative means of transportation for City
residents and businesses.
Goal: Encourage energy efficient housing that exceeds the minimum efficiency levels required in
the State building codes.
Objectives:
• Protect solar access for homes and businesses.
• Promote the use of renewable energy systems on housing and in areas where such
systems can be safely operated and produce a minimum level of visual impact.
Goal: Review the goals of the Minnesota GreenStep Cities Program. Implement GreenStep Cities
Best Practices as appropriate.
Solar
The Metropolitan Land Planning Act (Minnesota Statues 473.859, Subd. 2) requires local
comprehensive plans to include for the protection and development of access to direct sunlight
for solar energy systems.
Within Scandia’s development code, the administration chapter details the allowance of
variances in regard to solar access. § 6.4.7 reads, “Practical difficulties include, but are not
limited to, inadequate access to direct sunlight for solar energy systems.”
Also, the subdivision regulations, in § 13.2.7, states “All new subdivisions, where appropriate,
should be designed to accommodate use of passive and active solar energy systems with special
attention given to street, lot and building orientation.”
According to the Metropolitan Council, Scandia has the following solar potential, detailed in
Table 17. These calculations assume a 10% conversion efficiency and current (2016/17) solar
technologies. The average home in Minnesota consumes between 9 and 10 Mwh/year (Solar
Energy Industries Association; US Energy Information Administration). Using only Scandia’s
rooftop generation potential, between 2,778 and 3,086 homes could be powered by solar energy
annually.
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Table IV-A – Solar Resource Calculations
Gross Potential
(Mwh/yr)
Rooftop Potential
(Mwh/yr)
Gross Generation
Potential (Mwh/yr2)
Rooftop Generation
Potential (Mwh/yr2)
51,157,938 277,765 5,115,793 27,776
Source: Metropolitan Council
These calculations done by the Metropolitan Council are not necessarily an absolute number.
Due to limitations in data and maps, some areas may be left out from gross and rooftop
potential.
These numbers should be interpreted as a baseline; if more accurate numbers are desired, the
Metropolitan Council advice a more extensive, community-specific analysis of solar
development potential for both solar gardens and rooftop or accessory use installations. On
average, communities would be able to expect between 30% and 60% of total energy used to be
able to be generated by solar rooftops. The rooftop potential estimated here does not consider
ownership, financial barriers, or building-specific structural limitations. Solar potential in the
City of Scandia is displayed in Figure IV-A.
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Figure IV-A - Solar Potential Map
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Minnesota GreenStep Cities
In May 2014, the City Council approved a resolution to make Scandia a GreenStep City
through the MPCA and League of Minnesota Cities’ program. As of 2017, the city has
implemented 11 actions for four best management practices: buildings and lighting, land
use, environmental management, and economic and community development. Scandia is
currently a Step 1 City but is anticipated to achieve Step 2 in June 2018.
• Buildings and Lighting – Scandia has implemented two actions in efficiency in
building operations and lighting. The city has earned two stars for entering building
information in the Minnesota B3 Benchmarking database, allowing the city to track
their monthly energy and water use in all city-owned buildings. Scandia has also
earned one star for the use of a solar-powered light on the flagpole of the Veterans
Memorial in Lilleskogen Park.
• Land Use – The city has implemented three actions regarding comprehensive plans
and two practices for natural resource conservation design.
In comprehensive planning, Scandia has earned one star for adopting a
comprehensive, long-range land use plan and another star for updating its zoning
code and ordinances with the comprehensive plan. The city has also earned two
stars for adopting the Carnelian-Marine St. Croix’s watershed plan and for entering
agreements with May Township and Osceola, WI. Scandia provides fire services to
a portion of May Township, and Scandia entered a mutual aid agreement with
Osceola in 2009.
In natural resource conservation design, the city has earned two stars for
implementing and Open Space Subdivision process that allows development to
occur while preserving woodlands, natural corridors, agricultural land, open space,
and significant natural resources. Scandia has also earned two stars for adopting a
Woodland and Tree Preservation Plan requirement in the City Code. A Woodland
Preservation Plan is required whenever significant trees or woodlands exist in a
proposed construction zone.
• Environmental Management – Scandia has implemented two actions for this best
management practice. The city earned two stars for adopting a shoreland overlay
district with shoreland management regulations. Scandia also earned one star for
contracting with a service provider to provide single-sort curbside recycling for all
Scandia households.
• Economic and Community Development – The city has implemented two actions
for this best management practice area. Scandia has earned two stars for adopting a
solar farm and community solar garden ordinance, which has resulted in four solar
farms being approved for construction. The city has also earned two stars for
partnering with the Gammelgarden to bring a Farmer’s Market to Scandia. This
effort helped bring fresh, locally grown produce to residents while creating an
enjoyable, safe community event in the cultural/social heart of Scandia.
As Scandia plans for the future, it will continue to consider GreenStep City Best
Management Practices as they relate to the goals and objectives of this comprehensive plan.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Economic Competitiveness
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V. ECONOMIC COMPETITIVENESS
Minnesota Statutes §473.859 Subd. 1 states local comprehensive plans “shall contain objectives,
policies, standards, and programs to guide…redevelopment and preservation for all lands and
waters within the jurisdiction of the local governmental unit.” This comprehensive plan will address
this requirement through the implementation chapter at the end of the plan. The following sections
detail basic background information on employment and income to provide current conditions for
the community and to summarize public comments from the community survey, focus groups, and
open houses relating to economic development.
Economic Competitiveness Goals and Objectives
Goal: Concentrate on retaining and expanding local businesses in and around the Village Center
and existing Rural Commercial districts.
Objectives:
• Strengthen public services to attract and retain businesses and workforce.
• Identify and allow in-fill development opportunities for business expansion.
• Promote appropriately sized new businesses that create synergy with existing
businesses and overarching goals.
• Use outreach/branding initiatives to retain businesses and employment in Scandia.
• Cooperate with businesses, educational institutions, community organizations, and
government to provide information to local businesses.
• Create development and land use standards to guide development into the Village
Center and away from a linear pattern along the highways or undeveloped rural
intersections.
• Encourage businesses providing local services, as well as tourism and recreation
businesses in the Village Center.
• Work with building owners to maintain and upgrade building facades and properties
consistent with the Village Center’s small town image and historic character.
• Encourage public and private investment in community-oriented institutions
including the community center and city hall, church, cemeteries, and
Gammelgarden.
Goal: Actively support the retention and expansion of Scandia community-scale agricultural
operations.
Objectives:
• Work cooperatively with other governmental agencies and community groups to
develop programs to help keep agricultural land affordable in Scandia.
• Update ordinances and regulations to facilitate growth of small-scale agricultural
uses.
Goal: Encourage home-based entrepreneurs and businesses.
Objectives:
• Identify opportunities to encourage home-based businesses to transition to a
storefront when its market is adequately developed.
• Review standards to support home occupations while ensuring compatibility with
surrounding land uses.
Goal: Expand access to internet services throughout the entire City.
Objectives:
• Encourage internet providers to expand service areas and bandwidth throughout the
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City.
• Explore potential opportunities for public investment or grants to expand internet
capabilities.
• As development or redevelopment occurs, support the addition of infrastructure that
will enable expansion of internet technology.
Employment in Scandia
Figure V-A shows the historical employment in Scandia from 1970 through 2016 and
projected employment to 2040. Employment in Scandia peaked in 2011 with 620
employees. Projections show employment increasing in Scandia considerably in the next 20
years, projecting to add 190 jobs by 2040. However, this is contingent on the ability of
businesses and industries in the city to support employment growth as well as the ability of
the city to support new and growing businesses.
Figure V-A - Historical and Projected Employment in Scandia
Source: Metropolitan Council Tabulation of US Census and American Community Survey Data
Figure V-B shows employment in Scandia by industry in 2015. Of Scandia’s total 540 jobs,
46% fall into “All Other Industries,” suggesting a diversity of jobs within the city. The
largest single industry is Educational Services, which provides 21% of jobs located in
Scandia. Health care and social assistance and construction make up the second and third
largest single industries in the city, respectively.
40 50
387
272
519
620 607
531 526 540
620
690
730
0
100
200
300
400
500
600
700
800
1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2020 2030 2040
Employment in Scandia (Historical and Projected)
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Figure V-B - Employment by Industry
Source: Metropolitan Council
Income
Figure V-C shows median household income in Scandia over the last 25 years. Median
household income has increased in Scandia, with the largest increase between 1990 and
2000. These medians are nearly identical to Washington County median household
incomes.
Figure V-C - Median Household Income
1. Public Comments
Appendices D and E provide detailed responses regarding community and economic
development. In brief, Community Survey respondents identified businesses struggling in
the low-density city as one of the top three challenges facing the city and commercial
growth as the number one priority for the city for the next 20 years. Residents of Scandia
$45,915
$68,036
$80,556 $84,130
$0
$10,000
$20,000
$30,000
$40,000
$50,000
$60,000
$70,000
$80,000
$90,000
Census 1990 Census 2000 ACS 2006-2010 ACS 2011-2015
Source: US Census and American Community Survey (Not Adjusted for Inflation)
4%
46%
21%
11%
10%
2%
6%
1%
Administrative and Waste Services
All Other Industries
Educational Services
Health Care and Social Assistance
Construction
Professional and Technical Services
Public Administration
Transportation and Warehousing
0%5%10%15%20%25%30%35%40%45%50%
Employment by Industry in Scandia, 2015
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want growth to match existing community character, supporting existing small businesses
and the history of the community. There is interest in a range of community businesses and
attractions, many of which can cater to both local and tourist markets, such as coffee shops,
restaurants, and recreation. There is also interest in exploring alternative agricultural
opportunities, like co-ops, and tourism as key elements of the city’s economy, as traditional
agriculture will become increasingly difficult to maintain. Focus groups also noted slow
and sporadic internet speed as a limiting factor in business operations.
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VI. HOUSING
As part of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan update, the Metropolitan Council provides housing
estimates for each community in the seven-county metropolitan area, based on the 2010 Census and
the number of permitted units between 2010 and 2015. However, this level of analysis is only
meant to provide a framework, and typically works best in larger communities. Given the small size
of the City of Scandia, it can be difficult to obtain accurate data for housing units.
To provide a more accurate picture of current housing conditions in Scandia, data for occupied
housing units from the 2011-2015 American Community Survey (ACS) was used to provide a
baseline for current housing conditions in Scandia. This was determined to be the most appropriate
data to use, as it most closely aligned with Washington County property assessments in Scandia and
focused solely on occupied units. There are a number of seasonal dwelling units in Scandia (i.e.
cabins), but there is no consensus between data sources (US Census/ACS, Washington County, and
the Metropolitan Council) as to how many seasonal “vacant” units there are in Scandia. This can be
misleading, as seasonal units are counted as “vacant” even though they are owned and occupied for
varying lengths throughout the year. Based on community experiences, the City of Scandia has very
low to no vacancy rates for permanently occupied units.
To help guide effective, community focused policies pertaining to housing in the City of Scandia,
the city presumes there to be low/no vacancies within city limits. Seasonal housing units may or
may not become permanently occupied in the future; this is the decision of the property owner, not
the city. The City of Scandia will plan for and consider policies that do not assume any conversion
of seasonal units into permanent residences, meaning development or redevelopment is assumed to
be needed to accommodate all future households. This will ensure that enough land is reserved for
residential uses in areas that are close to or are connected to existing residential areas and service,
supporting orderly residential growth. Any conversion of seasonal units to permanent housing
would ultimately decrease the number of new housing units and amount of land needed in Scandia
to accommodate projected population growth.
Housing Goals and Objectives
Goal: Support a variety of housing types and densities for residential uses in and surrounding
the Village Center and other areas where appropriate.
Objectives:
• Encourage residential development in areas where sufficient infrastructure capacity
can be provided.
• Offer density bonuses for development providing senior housing, lifecycle housing,
or work with property owners on the transfer of development rights.
Goal: Expand life-cycle housing opportunities for residents at all points of life.
Objectives:
• Encourage residential buildings to be designed for accessibility in order to meet the
needs of current and future owners.
• Continue to work with the Washington County Community Development Agency
to identify opportunities for providing additional affordable senior housing in the
Village Center.
Goal: Encourage a range of housing choices that fit with the character of the community
Objectives:
• Review current development ordinance for districts to allow smaller lot sizes or
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higher densities while respecting the rural character and land uses.
• Encourage Open-Space Cluster housing development and Lot Averaging
development.
• Continue to monitor the general condition of the housing stock, with a special
focus on the physical condition of the older housing.
Existing Housing
As of 2015, Scandia contained approximately 1,518 occupied-housing units, 98% of which are
single family and 2% or which are multi-family. About 90% of the households (1,367 units) in
Scandia are owner-occupied, compared to 10% renter-occupied units (151 units). About 37% of
homes in Scandia are affordable to households with incomes at or below 80% Area Median
Income (AMI). However, about 30% of households in Scandia experience cost burden. There
are 40 subsidized units in Scandia, all of which are designated as senior housing. These and
other housing conditions are outlined in Tables VI-A and VI-B.
Table VI-A – Housing Conditions
Housing Units Number of
Units
Percent
of Total
Total Occupied Housing Units 1,518 100%
– Owner Occupied 1,367 90%
– Rental 151 10%
Single Family Homes 1,488 98%
Multi-family Homes 30 2%
Publicly Subsidized
– Senior Housing 40 3%
– Housing for People with Disabilities 0 0%
– All Other Publicly Subsidized Units 0 0%
Affordable Housing
Housing Units affordable to households with incomes
at or below 30% Area Median Income (AMI) 16 1%
Housing Units affordable to households with incomes
between 31 and 50% Area Median Income (AMI) 137 9%
Housing Units affordable to households with incomes
between 51 and 80% Area Median Income (AMI) 416 27%
Source: Metropolitan Council Tabulation of American Community Survey Data, 2011-2015
Table VI-B - Households Experiencing Cost Burden
Existing households experiencing housing cost burden
with incomes below 30% AMI 83 5%
Existing households experiencing housing cost burden
with incomes between 31 and 50% AMI 114 8%
Existing households experiencing housing cost burden
with incomes between 51 and 80% AMI 22 1%
Source: Metropolitan Council Tabulation of American Community Survey Data, 2011-2015
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Housing affordability is an issue every community needs to address. In Scandia, about 30% of
all households spend 30% or more of the household income on housing and are considered to
experience housing cost burden (shown in Figure VI-A). About half of all cost-burdened
households have incomes at or below 80% AMI; the other half have incomes higher than 80%
AMI.
Housing affordability has become a growing concern in Scandia, detailed in Appendices D and
E. Only 15% of all households experienced housing cost burden in 1990; in 2015, that
percentage doubled to 30%. High housing costs can make it difficult for young families to
move into the community or for older residents on fixed-incomes to age in their community.
Figure VI-A – Housing Cost Burden
Source: US Census and American Community Survey
1. Housing Units
Housing in Scandia is predominantly single family detached, which is characteristic of rural
communities. Approximately 94% of the occupied housing stock in Scandia are detached
single family, compared to 4% attached single family residences. There is a limited amount
of multifamily housing in Scandia. Multifamily units make up roughly 2% of the city’s
housing stock with 0.6% of being duplexes, triplexes, and quads and 1.4% being larger,
five units or more buildings. These data are noted in Table VI-C.
Table VI-C – Household Type
Household Type Units Percentage
Single-Family Detached 1,428 94%
Townhomes (single-family attached) 59 4%
Duplex, triplex and quad 9 0.6%
Multifamily (5 units or more) 21 1.4%
Total Households 1,518
Source: American Community Survey, 2011-2015
As shown in Figure VI-B, over 70% of the city’s housing stock has been built since 1970
with almost a quarter of all units built between 1970 and 1979. About a third of Scandia’s
housing units were built in the last 25 years (1990-2015). The proportion of the city’s
15%16%
27%30%
14%15%
25%
30%33%
28%
48%
27%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
Census 1990 Census 2000 ACS 2006-2010 ACS 2011-2015
Percent of Households Experiencing Cost Burden in Scandia
All households experiencing cost burden Owners experiencing cost burden
Renter households experiencing cost burden
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oldest housing units built in 1939 or earlier, has decreased from 19% of the city’s total
stock in 2000 to 12% in 2015.
Figure VI-B – Age of Housing
Source: American Community Survey, 2011-2015
There has been little housing development in Scandia since 2010, though the pace of
development has increased in 2015 and 2016, shown in Figure III-C. Most development
since 2000 has been in single family, detached homes.
Figure VI-C – Residential Building Permits
Source: Metropolitan Council
2. Housing Demographics
Table VI-D illustrates the distribution of owner-occupied and renter-occupied households
in Scandia by age. The largest cohort of owners is the 55 to 64-year old range, making up
about 34% of all homeowners in Scandia. This cohort also makes up the largest share of
renter households, representing 42% of all renters. About 60% of all households in Scandia
are owned or rented by residents age 55 or older. In contrast, approximately 6% of all
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
Year Structure Built by Tenure
Owner
Renter
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
160
2000-2004 2005-2009 2010-2014 2015-2016
New Housing Units Permitted by Scandia
Duplex, triplex and quad Multifamily (5 units or more)
Single-Family Detached Townhomes (single-family attached)
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households are headed by persons under the age of 35, and about 20% of all household are
headed by persons under the age of 45.
Table VI-D – Age Distribution of Owners and Renters
Householder Age Owners Renters
15-24 10 0
25-34 53 28
35-44 132 23
45-54 342 20
55-64 448 63
65-74 311 17
75 or Older 71 0
Total Households 1,367 151
Source: American Community Survey, 2011-2015
Scandia has a high rate of homeownership; 90% of all housing units are owner occupied.
Figure VI-D shows historical homeownership rates in the city; the current homeownership
rate in Scandia is estimated to be the lowest rate the city has seen in 25 years.
Figure VI-D – Housing Ownership
Source: US Census, American Community Survey
3. Housing Values
Housing values in Scandia are higher compared to other areas in the region. Scandia has
higher values than both Forest Lake and Washington County, as shown in Figure III-E.
Scandia’s median housing value is $293,700, compared to $230,100 in Forest Lake and the
County average of $243,600. About 13% of the city’s housing market is valued below
$200,000 while about 23% are valued above $400,000. While high home values can be
beneficial to homeowners and the city, they can price out young families, lower-wage
workers like teachers and health care assistants, and seniors on fixed-incomes.
94%94%92%90%
6%6%8%10%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
1990 2000 2010 2015
Housing Tenure
Renter
Owner
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Figure VI-E – Housing Values
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
Pe
r
c
e
n
t
a
g
e
o
f
U
n
i
t
s
Forest Lake Scandia Washington County
Source: Metropolitan Council Tabulation of American Community Survey Data.
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Figure VI-F - Owner Occupied Units by Value
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Projected Housing Needs
The City of Scandia is anticipated to see modest population and household growth by 2040.
Exact housing needs and demand for new housing development will be influenced by the actual
population growth and average household size. The amount of land needed to accommodate
new housing units will be influenced by several factors, including the desire for accessory
dwelling units and the location of new units. Most of the city’s housing growth is anticipated to
take place in the Village Neighborhood designation, which permits higher density residential
development than General Rural or Agricultural. Accessory dwelling units on existing lots can
also accommodate the city’s projected population growth without greatly increasing the
demand for developable land.
Figure VI-G – Household Projections
Appendix A details the housing needs and gaps identified by respondents to the 2017
Community Survey. Residential development was noted as one of the top priorities for the city
for the next 20 years. Most survey respondents expressed a desire for mid-range, single-family
homes on larger lots. When asked to identify gaps, the most common response was about the
lack of senior or assisted living (45% of survey responses).
As noted in Appendix B, focus group participants also expressed a desire for housing north of
Highway 97, north/west of the current village center and around Big Marine Lake. There was
interest in senior housing options, which ranged from care facilities to varying house sizes
(smaller single family, townhomes) and lot configurations, such as accessory dwelling units.
To accommodate projected housing needs, the Future Land Use plan expands the Village
Neighborhood designation north and west, a reflection of both public comments and orderly,
contiguous residential expansion. This designation accommodates smaller homes and smaller
lot sizes, blending into the historical character of the Village Center. The zoning ordinance also
includes density bonuses for the development of housing, where the housing units are
designated for residents age 55 or older or are affordable to households with incomes less than
120% of AMI. Large lot, single family homes are the primary housing type permitted in Rural
Residential General, Agricultural Core, and the St. Croix River zoning districts to preserve the
city’s rural character.
408
851
1,060
1,294
1,498 1,518 1,700
1,910 2,100
1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 2030 2040
Household Projections in Scandia
Number of Households
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Affordable Housing Allocation
The Affordable Housing Allocation reflects the region’s forecasted population that will need
affordable housing. According to the Metropolitan Council’s affordable housing allocation,
Scandia’s share of affordable housing need is zero units, noted in Table VI-E.
Table VI-E – Affordable Housing Allocation
At or below 30 AMI 0
From 31 to 50 AMI 0
From 51 to 80 AMI 0
Total Number 0
While the City of Scandia does not have an affordable housing allocation, residents have
expressed a concern about the lack of affordable housing in the city. High housing costs were
identified in the Community Survey as one of the top three challenges facing Scandia. About
37% of existing housing units are affordable to households with incomes at or below 80% AMI.
As mentioned in the previous section, Scandia offers a density bonus for the development of
affordable housing (up to 120% AMI) in the Village Neighborhood zoning district. The City
will work with developers and Washington County to inform residents of available programs
and identify opportunities for implementation.
Housing Implementation Plan
There are a variety tools that aid the development of affordable housing. Table VI-F lists
several of the tools available to the City of Scandia. The City of Scandia will consider the
following tools on a case-by-case basis, as development occurs.
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Table VI-F – Housing Implementation
Housing
Goal/Need Available Tool Opportunity and Sequence of Use Potential Partners
Multi-
Generational
Community
Living
Start-Up Loan
Program
Assist first-time homebuyers with financing a
home purchase and down payment assistance
through a dedicated loan program
Minnesota Housing
Home
Improvement
Loans
Assist homeowners in financing home
maintenance projects to accommodating a
physical disability
Washington
County CDA,
Minnesota Housing
ADU Ordinance
The City will continue to support ordinances
permitting the construction of accessory
dwelling units or guest homes in specific zoning
districts
Planning
Commission and
City Council
Planned Unit
Development
(PUD)
The City would consider a PUD application for
senior housing in the Village Mixed Use district.
Planning
Commission and
City Council
Program or
Framework
The City will work with groups and
stakeholders to develop guiding principles,
frameworks, and action plans to consider and
incorporate the needs of older residents into
development decisions
Senior advocacy
groups or
networks,
residents
Maintaining
Existing Housing
Units
Home
Improvement
Loans
Assist homeowners in financing home
maintenance projects like roof repair,
plumbing and electrical work, accommodating
a physical disability, or select energy efficiency
improvement projects
Washington
County CDA,
Minnesota Housing
Subsurface
Sewage
Treatment System
Repair Grant/Loan
Assist homeowners with noncompliant
subsurface sewage treatment systems
Washington
County
New Housing
Construction
Tax Increment
Financing
The City would consider the creation of a TIF
district to encourage development of new
housing units, redevelopment and/or
infrastructure improvements affordable at or
below 80% AMI
Washington
County CDA
Site Assembly
The City would consider assembling a site for
senior housing. This may include acquiring and
holding land as well as sub-allocating such monies
to a qualified developer approved by the City
Council.
City
Council/Developer
Housing Bonds
The City would consider housing bonds to
support the new construction of affordable
and/or senior housing affordable at or below
80% AMI.
Washington
County CDA
Tax Abatement The City would consider tax abatement to
support the new construction of affordable
Washington
County CDA
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Table VI-F – Housing Implementation
and/or senior housing affordable at or below
80% AMI.
MN Housing
Consolidated RFP
The City would consider supporting an
application to support the new construction of
senior housing.
Washington
County CDA,
Minnesota Housing
GROW Fund
Provide gap financing for new or
redevelopment projects affordable to owner or
renter households at or below 60% AMI
Washington
County CDA
Maintaining
Homeownership
Home Buyer
Education
The City will consider partnering with the CDA
and other agencies to offer resources to
homeowners pre- and post-purchase.
Washington
County CDA
Homeowner
Counseling
The City will consider partnering with the CDA
and other agencies to offer counseling and
foreclosure prevention to homeowners.
Washington
County CDA
Community Land
Trust
The City will consider supporting the addition
of appropriate single-family homes into the
Two Rivers Community Land Trust to increase
affordable housing options.
Washington
County CDA
Other
City Ordinances
The City will review zoning and subdivision
ordinances to identify the potential
opportunities for cluster development and
flexible development that will encourage
affordable housing. Planning
Commission and
City Council
The City will review its zoning and subdivision
ordinances to identify any regulations that
inhibit the housing priorities in this document.
This effort is slated for completion by 2020.
Local Fair Housing
Policy
The City will consider developing a Fair Housing
Policy.
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VII. PARKS AND TRAILS
Future land use and development decisions need to consider the necessary infrastructure that will
enable growth, protect community character and natural systems, and sustain Scandia as a
community over time. Parks and recreation amenities and programs are a critical element to
sustaining the community. Park, recreation, and open space goals need to be integrated with
Scandia’s land use, transportation, and economic goals. This section summarizes the findings and
recommendations of the Parks, Trails, Open Space, and Recreation Plan, the Comprehensive Trails
Master Plan Report, and the Regional Park and Trail needs identified by the Metropolitan Council.
Parks and Trails Goals and Objectives
The City established five goals for Parks and Trails in Scandia. These goals were developed
from and are in support of the goals, policies, and strategies as identified in the 2023 Parks,
Trails, and Open Space Master Plan.
Goal: Provide sufficient park and recreation opportunities to meet current and future
recreational needs in the City of Scandia..
Objectives:
• Prioritize the enhancement and development of Scandia’s centralized parks, such as
Scandia Community Center, over more remote parks with fewer amenities.
• Across all of the City’s parks, prioritize maintaining existing amenities over adding
new amenities.
• Develop and maintain dedicated facilities for sporting activities, such as fields and
courts.
• Participate in regional park/trail planning initiatives, including the Washington
County Parks Department, the Minnesota Department of Transportation, and the
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.
• Identify and apply for grants to help fund solutions to recreational needs.
Goal: Ensure that all Scandia residents have safe access to quality parks and recreation
facilities.
Objectives:
• Encourage ongoing citizen participation in the planning and development of park
and open space facilities.
• Provide ADA-compliant, barrier-free access in all new or improved park facilities,
play areas, and sports field areas.
• Increase number of safe crossings near park facilities and in downtown Scandia.
• Continue to pursue City/school/sports organization development projects to help
expand community outdoor recreational opportunities in a cost-effective manner.
• Offer appropriate and engaging recreational opportunities for all age
Goal: Enhance connectivity and accessibility between Scandia’s parks and between adjacent
communities.
Objectives:
• Improve wayfinding within and around the trail system, as well as increase
visibility of trailheads.
• Continue to plan and implement school connection trails throughout Scandia.
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• Continue to expand Scandia’s network of interconnected, non-motorized trails to
promote connectivity between parks, neighborhoods, and public amenities)
Goal: Preserve the historical, cultural, and environmental significance of Scandia's existing
green space.
Objectives
• Continue working with the Scandia Heritage Alliance to assist in the
implementation of its Scandia Arts and Heritage (Water Tower Barn) project.
• Protect Scandia's scenic beauty and natural resources by cultivating a system of
parks, trails, and open spaces that respect natural terrain and preserve native
ecosystems.
• Provide undeveloped open spaces that assist in the conservation of ecologically
sensitive areas.
• Coordinate local efforts with other public agencies and private partners to protect
valuable natural resources through donations, procurement of easements,
acquisitions, and purchase of development rights; make these lands available for
passive recreation where appropriate.
• Manage vegetation in natural areas by removing and controlling non-native,
invasive spaces.
• Ensure adequate funding for ongoing maintenance of City monuments and
historically-significant structures.
Goal: Ensure that ongoing park improvements and future system expansion are financially
sustainable.
Objectives
• Utilize the "Grant Opportunities" table on pages 57-58 of the Parks, Recreation,
and Open Space Master Plan as a resource for funding solutions to recreational
needs; update regularly as new funding sources become available.
• Establish process for identifying, writing, and championing grant applications.
• Work closely with Scandia's City Council to identify park/recreational projects to
be incorporated into the City's Capital Improvement Program (CIP).
• Leverage local and regional partnerships for funding specific opportunities.
Existing Guiding Documents
The 2023 Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan: In 2023, the City of Scandia
completed and adopted the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan. This document
describes the current state, and recommends improvements for, the City’s green spaces and
recreational amenities. The Plan includes an analysis of the City’s current and projected
demographic data, as well as a detailed inventory of Scandia’s parks (both City-owned and
otherwise), trails, undeveloped parcels, recreational programming, and ongoing community
initiatives. Using public input gathered through an online survey and stakeholder interviews,
these five goals were developed to inform the overarching vision of the Plan, and multiple
strategies for each goal helped narrow this vision into actionable steps.
Public input also aided in generating specific recommendations for each of Scandia’s parks and
trails. The Plan document breaks up each of Scandia’s City-owned parks into separate spreads,
which list existing amenities and recommended improvements, along with their general
prioritization, cost estimate, and time frame for expected completion.
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Recommendations are also given for trails within downtown Scandia and throughout Scandia,
additional recreational programming ideas, and potential empty lots for future development.
The Implementation chapter lists various local and regional grant opportunities and steps for
amending the document if necessary.
Comprehensive Trails Master Plan Report: The Scandia City Council adopted the new
Comprehensive Trail Plan in June of 2011. The plan was developed with the help of many
Scandia residents, the Park and Recreation Committee, and the Friends of Scandia Parks and
Trails. Developing connections to and among Scandia parks and to regional trails are goals of
the trail planning project, as well as identifying safe walking and biking routes to school and
other key locations. The plan was funded by a grant from the Statewide Health Improvement
Program (SHIP) through the Washington County Department of Public Health and
Environment. Two of the Trails Planning Maps are included as Figures at the end of this
section.
Metropolitan Council System Statement
The Metropolitan Council created a Regional Parks System Statement Scandia 2015. The
System Statement identifies which regional park issues need to be addressed in the City of
Scandia’s comprehensive plan. No new regional parks are planned in Washington County by
2040, and no recent changes to the existing regional park system (which could require
adjustment of the City’s land use maps) are noted in the System Statement.
The System Statement identifies one existing regional park - Big Marine Park Reserve - as well
as two state lands - the Rustrum Wildlife Management Area (WMA) and the Falls Creek
Scientific and Natural Area (SNA) - as Regional Parks Components in Scandia. Since the
publication of the System Statement, Crystal Springs SNA was created and is now open to the
public as part of the DNR’s natural area system. Crystal Springs is within the St. Croix National
Scenic Riverway.
Washington County has additionally called out William O’Brien State Park and the Glacial
Hills Regional Trail search corridor in their 2040 comprehensive planning documents. Both of
these facilities are located on the southeastern border of Scandia along Marine on St. Croix and
May Township.
Thrive MSP 2040 Regional Parks Policy Plan calls out the Glacial Hills Regional Trail search
corridor running 12 miles, east-west between William O’Brien State Park and the Hardwood
Creek Regional Trail. The Plan also calls out the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, a portion
of which is located in the region (along the eastern border of Scandia). The St. Croix National
Scenic Riverway is a unit of the National Park System located on the St. Croix River and the
Namekagon River in Wisconsin. The National Riverway includes the two rivers and their
riparian areas and occupies the boundary between Wisconsin and Minnesota. The St. Croix
National Scenic Riverway is maintained and managed by the National Park Service and the
Minnesota and Wisconsin Departments of Natural Resources.
The Metropolitan Council’s 2005 Regional Parks Capital Improvement Program identified
several priority acquisitions in 2006-7 to expand Big Marine Park Reserve and a project
scheduled for 2010-11 to develop a campground and related facilities in Big Marine Park
Reserve. These investments will likely result in increased use of Big Marine Park Reserve and
will enhance the recreational value of trail connections or other local park and open space
efforts connecting to the Reserve.
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The Regional Parks and Trail System in Scandia is shown in Figure VII-A.
Stakeholder Perceptions and Recommendations
The resident survey showed an extremely strong interest in protecting the City’s open space
amenities, which include both the natural systems portrayed on the Open Space Plan map and
the rural character associated with agriculture. Residents reported greater participation in
individual recreation activities (jogging, biking, and fishing) than team or organized activities.
The Plan did not report, however, any distinction between adult and youth preferences.
The visioning discussion addressed how the different components of Scandia’s green
infrastructure interrelate. The visioning process included an identification of issues, listing of
opportunities, and a number of recommendations. The recommendations for the Parks and
Trails portion of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan update, as developed by the Parks and
Recreation Committee are listed in the following section. The recommendations have been
separated into four categories: Parks, Trails, Open Space and Recreation Recommendations.
The 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update Community Survey (conducted in 2017) identified the
following priorities with regards to parks and trails:
• Walking/Biking/Horse Trails - 13% of survey respondents identified this as one of their
top three development priorities for the City of Scandia (this is the second highest
ranking after Commercial growth)
• Outdoor Recreation - 9% of survey respondents identified this as one of their top three
development priorities
• Parks - 6% of survey respondents identified this as one of their top three development
priorities
Forty-one percent (41%) of survey respondents enjoy walking and do so daily within their
neighborhoods. Approximately 22% of respondents stated that they would walk/bike more if
there were more sidewalks/trails and approximately 24% said they would walk/bike more if
local roads were improved for this use.
Focus groups also expressed a desire for sidewalks and bike paths in the city. There was also an
interest in dog parks and public beach access on Bone or Big Marine Lake.
The Scandia Parks and Recreation Committee reviewed the Parks and Recreation portion of the
2008 Comprehensive Plan and updated recommendations for the 2040 vision for the City.
These recommendations are summarized in the following list, divided by park, trail, open space
and recreational facilities recommendations.
Park System Plan
a) Focal point of Scandia Community Center Park as central hub of parks network
throughout township
b) Increase active recreation at Scandia Elementary School area
c) Identify where and what kind of park acquisition is desirable
d) Identify appropriate use of existing parks
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Figure VII-A - Regional Parks and Trails
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Trail System Plan
a) Support development of Gateway trail and identify connections
b) Identify opportunities for new trail systems, trailheads, and rest stops within the
community
Open Space System Plan
a) Protect stream corridors; link to promote preservation of open space
b) Promote public awareness of value of open space and conservation easements
Recreational Facilities System Plan
a) Develop partnerships with local and regional recreation facilities (e.g. adjacent school
districts, neighboring communities, and government agencies).
Existing Parks and Trails
1. Regional/State Parks
Regional parks generally serve populations within a one-half hour to one-hour travel time.
They are usually in areas that exhibit highly valued scenic or natural qualities. In
the Scandia area, many regional parks and open space relate to the Lower St. Croix River,
lakes or natural communities. This section describes and maps the regional facilities in
Scandia. Scandia has a state park, a county park reserve, two scientific and natural areas
and a wildlife management area located within the city. Figure VII-A shows regional parks
located in Scandia.
William O’Brien State Park
William O’Brien State Park is on the St. Croix River and it offers many recreation
opportunities including biking, swimming, and nature interpretation. The park is
located in the southeast and includes 16 miles of hiking trails. The park located 5
minutes from Scandia Village.
Big Marine Lake Park Reserve
Big Marine Park Reserve is owned and operated by Washington County and is partially
located within the City of Scandia. The park was selected as a regional facility because
of its excellent natural resource features, including the St. Croix Valley/northeast
ground moraine and high-quality upland and wetland wildlife habitat. When completed,
the park will be 1,800 acres, with 80 percent of its acreage set aside for preservation
and protection. This 80 percent will eventually resemble the land as it was prior to the
arrival of the settlers in the mid-1800s.
Falls Creek Scientific Natural Areas (SNA)
Falls Creek is a MN DNR owned 136-acre scientific and natural area in Scandia. It
represents one of the most diverse natural areas in Washington County. It is home to a
myriad of Paleozoic rocks, steep ravines, pine and oak forests, and protection for
wildlife. Many areas that have been destroyed are undergoing reforestation with
seedlings grown from acorns collected at the site. Unique aspects of the park include a
stand of virgin hardwood and white pine forest as well as numerous wildflowers like
trilliums, rue anemone, and bellwort.
Crystal Spring Scientific and Natural Area (SNA)
Crystal Spring is a 38-acre MN DNR site offering high quality scenic views,
impressive steep cliffs, hiking, wildlife watching, photography opportunities,
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snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. High quality native plant communities
including red oak – basswood forest, exhibiting old-growth characteristics, carpet the
rugged terrain. This site is included in an Audubon Important Bird Area within the
Lower St. Croix National Scenic Riverway providing bird watching opportunities. This
SNA is located between the St. Croix River and County Rd. 95 (St. Croix Trail),
approximately 3 miles east of central Scandia. There are no maintained trails or other
recreational facilities.
Rustrum Wildlife Management Area (WMA)
Rustrum WMA is 24 acres, owned by the MN DNR, and located approximately three
miles east of central Scandia on the St. Croix River. The WMA is accessible by water
only with the nearest carry-in access located at Otisville, one mile downstream. The
site is 83% open water and emergent vegetation marsh and 17% flood plain forest. This
site offers unique boat access, hunting opportunities, and flood plain forest wildlife
viewing.
2. Regional Trails
Washington County has a 29.7 mile on-road bike loop identified through Scandia, Marine
on St. Croix, and May Township. This loop runs along County Highway 15, Trunk
Highways 97 and 95. This loop intersects another bike loop that connects to the Gateway
State Trail at Pine Point Regional Park (Stillwater Township).
There are no other regional trails currently identified through Scandia.
3. Local Parks
This section describes and maps the existing local parks, trails, and recreation facilities in
Scandia. Table VII-A highlights the available amenities provided by each park, shown in
Figure VII-B.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Parks and Trails
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Figure VII-B - Local Parks and Trails
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Parks and Trails
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 61
Scandia Community Center, 14727 209th St N.
Located in Olinda Trail North, just south of the Village Center, the Scandia Community Center is a
well-used facility with a community building that houses the township offices, banquet hall with
kitchen facilities, meeting rooms, restrooms and outdoor recreational facilities on an 18-acre site. The
Community Center shares a parking lot of approximately 120 parking spaces with the Leonard
Wojtowicz Skating Park. There is a public works maintenance building on site.
Wind in the Pines Reserve, 22199 St. Croix Trail
Wind in the Pines Park is thought to be one of the most diverse ecological areas left in Washington
County by the Minnesota DNR. This 44-acre site is located in the northeast corner of the Township
along State Highway 95 across from Pilar Road. Bounded by the Falls Creek SNA to the north and the
Lower St. Croix National Scenic Riverway to the east, this parcel offers diversity of old growth forest
and pristine prairies, providing invaluable wildlife habitat and unparalleled scenic value. There is a
small grave lot off Highway 95. Trails are marked and maintained by volunteers for non-motorized
pedestrian use.
Lilleskogen Park, 14600 Oakhill Road
This 8-acre park is located near the Village Center, with approximately half its area in wetlands.
Parking and access are problematic off of Oakhill Road. A few old footpaths remain. Existing
facilities include a parking lot, a Veteran’s Memorial, and a butterfly garden. This park is currently
undergoing restoration of the wetlands, in preparation for future development. This park was formerly
known as Old Lion’s Park.
Lion’s Park at Hay Lake, 14001 Old Marine Trail
Located at the intersection of Old Marine Trail and Olinda Trail North in the south-central part of the
city, this 7-acre site has been updated with a park shelter, picnic tables, grills, lighting, and electrical
hook-ups. Parking is available on the street. This site is adjacent to the Hay Lake School Museum and
across the road from the Swedish Settler’s Monument.
Barton Johnson Memorial Park, 20880 Olinda Trail
Barton Johnson is a private neighborhood park located adjacent to the Gammelgarden Museum and
across Olinda Trail from the Scandia Community Center.
Wayne Erickson Memorial Ball Park, 21398 Olinda Trail
Formerly known as Scandia Lighted Ball Field, Wayne Erickson Memorial Ball Park is located on the
west side of Olinda Trail/County Road 3, north of Scandia Trail/Highway 97. The site includes a
concession stand and children’s play structure.
South Ball Field, 20835 Olinda Trail
The ball field is located just south of the Community Center, on the east side of Olinda Trail/County
Road 3.
Scandia T-Ball Field, 14849 Oakhill Road North
This ball field is located on the south side of Oakhill (County Road 52), east of Olinda Trail.
Swenson Goose Lake Estate
This 1.7-acre parcel is part of the Swenson Estate Subdivision off of Oren Road North near the north
central part of the city. There are no existing facilities on site. In 2016, the Soaring Eagles 4-H Club
led a pollinator planting project on the parcel.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Parks and Trails
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Log House Landing, Off 205th Street North- North of William O'Brien State Park
Log House Landing is located off 205th Street North just east of Quinnell Ave in Scandia and
provides access to the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway.
Bone Lake Park (undeveloped open space)
Located in the northwest corner of the city near Lofton Ave., this 26-acre park is under approximately
60% wetland cover and supports the inlet to Bone Lake. It contains a DNR boat launch on the north
side of Bone Lake with associated parking. Area Boy Scouts have been given permission to establish
trails in this park, but Bone Lake is currently undeveloped.
Goose Lake Lot (undeveloped open space)
This 5-acre parcel with lake frontage is located on Goose Lake across from boat launch and is
surrounded by single-family homes. The lot is not maintained and is currently undeveloped due to
steep terrain.
Orwell Lot (undeveloped open space)
Approximately 50% of this 2.5-acre lot is covered in wetlands. There are no existing facilities on site.
Table VII-A – Park Amenities by Location
Parks Pa
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Scandia Community
Center 18 X X X X X X X
Wind in the Pines
Preserve 44 X X X
Lilleskogen Park (Old
Lion’s Park) 8 X X
Lion’s Park at Hay Lake 7 X X X
Barton Johnson Memorial
Park X X
Wayne Erickson Memorial
Ball Park X X X X
South Ball Field X X
Scandia T-Ball Field X X
Swenson Goose Lake
Estate 1.7 X
Log House Landing X
Bone Lake Park
(undeveloped) 26 X X X
Goose Lake Lot
(undeveloped) 5 X
Orwell Lot (undeveloped) 2.5 X
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Parks and Trails
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4. Local Trails
There are few local trail systems in Scandia. There is an existing sidewalk along Oakhill
Road N and Olinda Trail N in the Old Village Area. The City also maintains the easement
from Oxboro Avenue North to William O’Brien State Park, shown in Figure VII-C, below.
This mowed grass trail provides access to the state park.
Figure VII-C – Maintained Easement to State Park
Maintained (mowed) easement to William O’Brien State Park
Proposed Parks and Trails
1. Regional Parks
There are no new regional parks currently proposed within the City of Scandia.
2. Regional Trails
The Scandia Comprehensive Trails Master Plan Report outlines three citywide trail loops,
a County trail, a rails-to-trails possible conversion, and connections to the proposed
Gateway Trail. Applicable maps from the plan have been included at the end of this
section. The following trail descriptions are excerpts from the Trails Master Plan:
Three Major Trail Routes
The major routes identified on the plan include the Big Marine Trail, Scandia/Marine Trail,
and Scandia North or Bone Lake Trail. These trails are proposed to be on-road trails,
designated by signage that will be developed by the Friends of Scandia Parks. The City will need
to approve trail signage on their respective roadways. The major trail loops are assumed to be on-
road trails that will primarily be used by bicyclists but may also be used by pedestrians.
Trunk Highway 97 Trail
The planning group identified a goal to explore creation of an off-road trail along portions of
Trunk Highway 97, from Odell Avenue to TH 95. The proposed off-road trail and TH 97
crossings are particularly needed near Scandia Elementary School. The City would need to work
with MN DOT to develop and fund this trail and the proposed crossings.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Parks and Trails
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Soo Line Trail
The Master Plan includes a proposed Soo Line Trail route near the St. Croix River. This loop
would follow the existing Soo Line railroad tracks. This is currently an active rail line. The route
will be developed if the rail route is abandoned in the future. The trail surface should
accommodate biking and walking. The route would connect Scandia with Marine on St. Croix
and communities to the south and could connect with communities in Wisconsin. The proposed
trail would be an off-road route parallel to the St. Croix River and TH 95.
Gateway Trail (Connection to Swedish Immigrant Regional Trail)
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has acquired portions of the proposed route
of the Gateway Trail in Scandia. The proposed route travels from William O’Brien State Park to
the Village Area. The DNR has also identified a large search area for extension of the trail north
from the Village Area. The City of Lindstrom received a grant to help complete this extension,
connecting the segments of the Gateway Trail in Scandia to the Swedish Immigrant Regional
Trail in Lindstrom. The search area is shown on the County trail map in Appendix C.
Figures VII-D and VII-E identify proposed Scandia connections to the Gateway Trail from the
Scandia/Marine Trail and from sub-loops within the Village area.
Glacial Hill Regional Trail Search Corridor
While not in Scandia’s System Statement, the Glacial Hills Trail in Marine on St. Croix is
identified as running close to Scandia’s southeast border. This proposed regional trail will connect
the Hardwood Creek Regional Trail to the west with Big Marine Park Reserve to east. This
proposed trail does not have an approved master plan yet. The county will conduct a master
planning process for this trail in the future.
Figure VII-F shows proposed trail extensions and connections.
3. Local Trails
The Scandia Comprehensive Trails Master Plan Report outlines Village area sub loops to
the identified citywide loops as described here. Applicable maps from the plan have been
included at the end of this section.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Parks and Trails
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Figure VII-D – Trails Planning Map
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Parks and Trails
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Figure VII-E – Trails Planning Map, Old Village
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Figure VII-F - Proposed Local Parks and Trails
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Parks and Trails
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Implementation
The Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan (2023) identified the following actions as
high priorities for implementation:
• Develop a connection between downtown Scandia and the Gateway Trail, which is
anticipated to extend north towards Scandia.
• Assist the Scandia Heritage Alliance in implementing its vision for the Water Tower Barn -
Scandia Arts & Heritage Center.
• Install a walking trail/boardwalk around the wetland behind the Scandia Community Center
building, connecting to the Water Tower Barn site.
• Convert the existing tennis courts at Scandia Community Center into a multi-use racket
sports area by painting four pickleball courts perpendicular to the tennis courts and
acquiring moveable pickleball nets.
• Repair/refinish the southwest corner of the racket sports area at Scandia Community
Center.
• Revamp Wind in the Pine Preserve’s primary trail entrance (off of St. Croix Trail N) with
new information kiosk and detailed trail map.
• Replace rink boards at Leonard Wojtowicz Skating Park.
• Add an unpaved walking trail, picnic table, and park identification signage to Liten Park.
Appendices
The Scandia Comprehensive Trails Master Plan Report is included in Appendix C.
The Official Map for Big Marine Park Reserve is included in Appendix D.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Transportation
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VIII. TRANSPORTATION
Overview
The primary purpose of this Transportation chapter is to provide guidance to City staff and
elected officials regarding the implementation of effective, integrated transportation facilities
and programs through the 2040 planning timeframe. This chapter is consistent with regional
requirements for transportation as captured in the Metropolitan Council’s 2040 Local Planning
Handbook.
This section is organized into the following sections:
• Existing Roadway Conditions
• Roadway System Plan
• Transit Plan
• Non-Motorized Transportation Plan
• Freight Plan
• Aviation Plan
Transportation Goals and Objectives
Goal: As new development or redevelopment occurs, provide an integrated, internally-
connected, efficient street system connecting village and higher density neighborhoods to the
Village Center.
Objectives:
• Discourage the creation of permanently long streets with only a single access point
(i.e., dead-end streets, looping streets and elongated cul-de-sacs).
• Encourage design and land uses that support a range of transportation choices
• Guide future development to roadways capable of accommodating resulting traffic.
• Develop roadways and street systems with consideration for safety, speeds,
congestion, impact and noise pollution
Goal: Establish context-sensitive roadway design standards that will protect the narrow and
heavily wooded character of identified low-traffic roadways. (Please refer to further
information on Context Sensitive Solutions in the Roadway System Plan portion of this
Transportation section.)
Objectives:
• Protect scenic rural roads, viewpoints and vistas identified through the planning
process from visually intrusive or incompatible development.
Goal: Maintain Scandia’s system of local roadways that is well coordinated with MN DOT and
Washington County Roadways.
Objectives:
• Develop a capital improvement program to ensure adequate funding for priority
roadway concerns.
• Cooperate with County and State jurisdictions to keep through-traffic on arterials at
minimum disruption of local circulation and residents.
• Through the subdivision review process for new developments, require that MN
DOT and Washington County access management guidelines be met for roadways
under the jurisdiction of those agencies, respectively.
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Goal: Encourage the use of non-automotive modes of transportation.
Objectives:
• Use roadway design to establish bike and pedestrian friendly streets and
compliment recreational trails.
Goal: Support the development of regional and local transit options.
Objectives:
• Support efforts to provide more efficient delivery of dial-a-ride services for
Scandia residents, including but not limited to efforts to utilize the Village Center
as a focus of service.
Goal: Preserve the safety of regional air traffic.
Objectives:
• Notify MN DOT Aeronautics of any structure of a height of 200 feet above the
ground.
• Address federal and state safety standards when planning the design of any object
related to or affecting navigable airspace.
Existing Roadway Conditions
1. Existing Traffic Volumes and Crash Data
The most basic characteristic of a given roadway is the volume of traffic that it carries. Existing
traffic volumes on roadways within Scandia are presented on Figure VII-A. This is the most
current MN DOT data.
A preliminary safety review of a roadway network includes a crash review. The most recent
crash data for roadways in Scandia are also summarized on Figure VII-A. This shows all
intersection crashes over the last five years of record, plus any crashes involving fatalities
and/or incapacitating injuries regardless of location. Please note that system-wide crash data is
not available beyond 2015. While it is beyond the scope of this 2040 Comprehensive Plan to
provide a detailed safety analysis, the highest volumes of crashes are at the following
intersections:
• TH 97/CSAH 15 (Manning Avenue N) – eight crashes
• TH 97/CSAH 3 (Olinda Trail) – seven crashes
• TH 97/TH 95 – seven crashes
This is not surprising, given that that these are the three intersections in Scandia involving two
minor arterial roadways. In addition, there were two fatal crashes during this timeframe:
• 228th St east of County Road 91
• TH 95/220th Street
2. Jurisdictional Classification
Roadways are classified based on which level of government owns and has jurisdiction over
them. In the case of Scandia, roadways are under the jurisdiction of MN DOT, Washington
County, or the City of Scandia. Figure VII-B depicts the existing roadway jurisdictional
classification system in Scandia
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Transportation
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Figure VIII-A - Existing Traffic and Crash Data
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Transportation
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Figure VIII-B – Roadway Jurisdiction
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Transportation
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3. Functional Classification
The functional classification system is a roadway network that distributes traffic from
neighborhood streets to collector roadways, then to minor arterials, and ultimately the
Metropolitan Highway System. Roads are placed into categories based on the degree to which
they provide access to adjacent land uses and lower level roadways versus providing higher-
speed mobility for “through” traffic. Functional classification is a cornerstone of transportation
planning. Within this approach, roads are located and designed to perform their designated
function.
Within the seven-county metropolitan area, there are six overall classifications of roadway as
defined by the Metropolitan Council:
• Principal arterial
• “A” minor arterial
• Other arterial
• Major collector
• Minor collector
• Local street
The Metropolitan Council has defined four sub-categories of “A” minor arterials: reliever,
expander, connector, and augmenter. These sub-categories have to do primarily with
Metropolitan Council’s allocation of federal funding roadway improvements, but do not
translate into specific design characteristics or requirements.
For arterial roadways, the Metropolitan Council has designation authority. Local agencies may
request that their roadways become arterials (or are downgraded from arterial to collector), but
such designations or re-designations must be approved by the Metropolitan Council. The
agency that has jurisdiction over a given roadway (e.g. Washington County or the City of
Scandia) has the authority to designate collector status.
The current roadway functional classification map for Scandia as identified by the Metropolitan
Council is presented on Figure VIII-C. A summary of Scandia roadways by functional
classification follows.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Transportation
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Figure VIII-C – Functional Classification
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Transportation
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Principal Arterials
Principal arterials are the highest roadway classification and make up the Metropolitan
Highway System. The primary function of these roadways is to provide mobility for regional
trips, and they do not provide a direct land access function. Principal arterials are generally
constructed as limited access freeways but may also be multiple-lane divided highways. There
are no principal arterials within the City of Scandia.
“A” Minor Arterials
These roads connect important locations within the City of Scandia with access points of the
Metropolitan Highway System and with important locations outside the City. These arterials
are also intended to carry short to medium trips that would otherwise use principal arterials.
While “A” minor arterial roadways provide more access than principal arterials, their primary
function is still to provide mobility rather than access to lower level roadways or adjacent land
uses. The “A” minor arterial roadways within Scandia are identified in Table VIII-A, below:
Table VIII-A – “A” Minor Arterial Roadways
Roadway From To Number of Travel Lanes (Total)
TH 97/Scandia Trl N West City Limit TH 95 2
TH 95/St. Croix Trl N South City Limit North City Limit 2
CSAH 3/Olinda Trl N South City Limit North City Limit 2
CSAH 15/Manning Trl N South City Limit North City Limit 2
Other Arterials
Like “A” minor arterials, these roadways also serve more of a mobility function than access
function. However, they may not have as much regional importance as “A” minor arterials and
are not eligible for federal roadway improvement funding. There are no other arterials within
the City of Scandia.
Major and Minor Collectors
Collector roadways provide a balance of the mobility and land-use access functions discussed
above. They generally serve trips that are entirely within the City and connect neighborhoods
and smaller commercial areas to the arterial network. Minor collectors generally are shorter in
length, with lower volumes and lower speeds than major collectors. Current collector roadways
are identified in Table VIII-B, below.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Transportation
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Table VIII-B – Major and Minor Collector Roadways
Roadway From To Number Travel Lanes (total)
Major Collectors
CR91 (Lofton Ave N) TH 97 North City Limit 2
Minor Collectors
CR 50 (192nd St N) West City Limit CSAH 15 2
CR 52 (Oakhill Rd N) TH 97 TH 95 2
220th St N CSAH 3 TH 95 2
Nolan Ave N/238th St N Oakhill Rd CR 91 2
230th St N West City Limit CSAH 15
228th St N/Meadow Brook
Ave N/Oakhill Rd N CSAH 15 TH 97 2
240th St N CSAH 3 TH 95 2
Oxboro Ave N Old Marine Trl CR 52 2
Old Marine Trl N CSAH 3 South City Limit 2
205th St N Mayberry Trl CSAH 3 2
Maxwill Ave N/Lakamaga Trl
N/195th St N Mayberry Trl CSAH 3 2
Mayberry Trl N CSAH 15 Lofton Ave 2
Lofton Ave N/Mayberry Trl N TH 97 195th St 2
4. Summary of Relevant Transportation Studies
The only transportation corridor study involving roadways in Scandia since the 2030
Comprehensive Plan the TH 97 Access Study. MN DOT is currently leading this study with
Washington County, the City of Forest Lake, and the Metropolitan Council as project partners.
The study limits extend from TH 61 in Forest Lake to TH 15 (Manning Avenue) in Scandia.
The primary measures under review include:
• Conversion of existing bypass lanes to dedicated turn lanes
• Dedicated left and right turn lanes
• Access closure/consolidation
• Roadway widening for continuous shoulder
The primary benefit resulting from the measures being studied would be an enhanced of safety
conditions. It is estimated that the study will be completed at some point in 2018.
Roadway System Plan
1. Local Roadway Considerations
Local Roadway Extensions
Given the primarily low-density, rural nature of Scandia, the existing network of minor arterial
and collector roadways should be sufficient. However, as the community experiences moderate
growth, it will be important to identify potential new links. Land subdivision and site plan
reviewers should ensure that these missing links between local roadway segments are
eventually dedicated to form an interconnected rural street system.
Factors to consider in identifying new roadway segments include the following:
• Existing gaps and continuity of roadway alignments
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Transportation
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• Rural topography, wetlands, and other features
• Land use and zoning
• Market interest, parcel configuration, and anticipated build-out condition
Existing gaps in the local roadway network are identified on Figure VIII-D and include those
identified below:
• Location 1 – 230th Street N, between Meadowbrook Avenue N and existing 230th Street
N approximately 2,000 feet to the east.
• Location 2 – Meadowbrook Road N between Oakhill Road N and Meadowbrook Road
N at the 218th Street N alignment, approximately ½ mile north of TH 97
• Location 3 – Novak Avenue N between current northerly terminus and Oakhill Road N
approximately 2,000 feet to the north.
• Location 4 – 209th Street N from Penrose Avenue N to Quality Trail N (wetlands would
likely preclude a direct connection to 209th Street west of TH 95).
• Location 5 – Between Ozark Avenue N at 209th St N and Oxboro Avenue N at Oakhill
Road N (north-south continuous roadway)
• Location 6 – Between Olinda Lane N at Olinda Trail N and 215th Street N at Parrish
Road N
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Figure VIII-D – Local Roadway Gaps
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Transportation
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A common problem in developing rural areas is how to address the development of local streets
in the absence of a more detailed local street plan. The risks of a poorly planned and developed
street system include landlocked parcels, increased needs for direct access onto arterial roads,
parcels that require circuitous access, and/or parcels that have only one ingress/egress points
(e.g. long dead-end streets). Like other communities, Scandia requires that subdivisions
consider the interconnection of new local streets with future subdivisions and with applicable
state and county access management guidelines.
One concern among communities is the creation of long dead-end streets that become de facto
cul-de-sacs. While many communities identify maximum dead-end street length, Scandia
currently does not. Scandia should consider including this type of requirement through
ordinance restrictions.
Context Sensitive Solutions
Historically, roadway design was geared heavily towards providing large roads and systems
that could move vehicles as quickly and efficiently as possible. More recently, however, this
has changed and continues to change, based on the understanding that flexibility in roadway
design is needed to limit impacts to the local environment wherever possible. “Environment” is
not only used ecological sense, but the social and community character sense as well. This
overall trend is captured in the term and design practice “Context Sensitive Solutions.” The
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) uses the following definition:
“Context sensitive solutions (CSS) is a collaborative, interdisciplinary approach that
involves all stakeholders to develop a transportation facility that fits its physical setting
and preserves scenic, aesthetic, historic and environmental resources, while maintaining
safety and mobility. CSS is an approach that considers the total context within which a
transportation improvement project will exist.”
The FHWA references A Guide to Best Practices for Achieving Context Sensitive Solutions
(National Cooperative Highway Research Program) as being an authoritative resource.
Numerous other guidance documents are available.
As reflected in the City’s Transportation Goals at the beginning of this chapter, the City of
Scandia embraces this concept, particularly as it pertains to maintaining the relatively narrow
and wooded/natural context of many roadways within the City.
2. Trunk Highway 97 at County Road 52 (Oakhill Road N) Study Area
This intersection is a key Highway 97 crossing location for vehicles as well as pedestrians and
bicyclists. It warrants safety study due to the following characteristics:
• Pronounced skew, combined with being on a curve
• Topography (rise/fall) affecting sight lines
• Proximity of adjacent access points (Oren Avenue N 390 feet to the east, private
driveway 300 feet to the west)
Scandia Elementary School in the southwest quadrant of this intersection, Lilleskogen Park is in the
southeast quadrant, and the intersection provides important access point into the Village Center.
Development north of TH 97 in this general portion of Scandia would increase traffic coming down
Oakhill Road N, adding to safety considerations.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Transportation
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For the reasons summarized above, the City of Scandia will work with MN DOT and Washington
County to perform safety analysis as appropriate.
3. 2040 Traffic Projections and Capacity Deficiency Analysis
a) Assumed 2040 Collector/Arterial Roadway Network
Because no new collector/arterial roadways or expansions are programmed or planned over
the 2040 timeframe, the assumed 2040 roadway network is the same as the current network
for traffic forecasting purposes.
b) Assumed 2040 Land Use and Transportation Analysis Zone Information
Transportation Analysis Zones (TAZs) are used to project future traffic volumes. Each
TAZ has demographic and employment information that translates to vehicular trip origins
and destinations. A map of Scandia TAZs is provided in Figure VIII-E. The anticipated
future land use patterns discussed in the Land Use chapter of this Comprehensive Plan were
assumed for the 2040 TAZ allocations identified in Table VIII-C, below.
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Figure VIII-E – Transportation Analysis Zones
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Transportation
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Table VIII-C – 2040 Scandia TAZ Data
TAZ Year Population Households Retail Jobs Non-Retail Jobs Total Jobs
2281* 2020 94 38 0 14 14
2030 110 49 0 14 14
2040 130 55 0 14 14
2282* 2020 113 48 0 0 0
2030 113 48 0 0 0
2040 113 48 0 0 0
2283* 2020 310 130 0 0 0
2030 323 137 0 0 0
2040 339 144 0 0 0
2284 2020 220 80 0 12 12
2030 235 90 0 23 23
2040 250 100 10 25 35
2285 2020 450 180 10 22 32
2030 470 196 10 30 40
2040 490 210 10 30 40
2286 2020 710 280 10 65 75
2030 770 310 10 77 87
2040 801 340 10 79 89
2287 2020 910 356 30 90 120
2030 1,006 413 30 93 123
2040 1,081 460 30 95 127
2288 2020 510 198 10 42 52
2030 550 230 13 50 63
2040 581 250 15 50 65
2289 2020 190 80 0 20 20
2030 220 90 0 20 20
2040 241 99 10 20 30
2290 2020 0 0 0 20 20
2030 10 0 10 20 30
2040 21 9 10 20 30
2291 2020 400 160 50 170 220
2030 430 180 55 180 235
2040 461 199 60 185 245
2292* 2020 353 150 5 50 55
2030 393 167 5 50 55
2040 442 186 8 50 55
TOTALS 2020 4,260 1,700 115 505 620
2030 4,630 1,910 133 557 690
2040 4,950 2,100 163 568 730
*Please note: the information for these TAZs is only for the portion of the TAZ within Scandia.
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c) 2040 Traffic Projections
Estimated 2040 traffic volumes for roadways in Forest Lake are presented in Figure VIII-F.
These projections are based on the following methodology:
• Review of forecasts from the 2030 Scandia Comprehensive Plan
• Historic trend analysis for volumes on individual roadway segments
• Consideration of local context and anticipated development patterns
• Comparison with the results of Washington County’s 2040 forecasts
d) Future Capacity Needs Evaluation
A planning level analysis of potential roadway capacity needs was performed, based on
comparing the projected 2040 traffic volumes referenced above against the expected traffic
capacity for the applicable roadway types that are present in Scandia. The roadway capacity
levels were estimated based on Highway Capacity Manual (HCM) guidance and methods. The
HCM, published by the Transportation Research Board,2 provides transportation practitioners
and researchers with a consistent and widely accepted system of techniques for assessing
roadway capacity and operational performance characteristics.
Table VIII-D – Typical Traffic Capacity by Roadway Type/Configuration – Roadways in Scandia
Roadway Design Planning Level Capacity (vehicles per day)
2-lane local/residential road 1,000
Rural 2-lane minor collector 7,700
Rural 2-lane highway (major collector/minor arterial) 13,000
Source: Bolton & Menk, Inc., Sixth Edition HCM methods
The resulting analysis shows that none of the roadways within Scandia are projected to be at or
approaching capacity by 2040. Therefore, no capacity expansion projects are identified in this
transportation plan.
2 The Transportation Research Board is a unit of the National Academy of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine.
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Figure VIII-F – 2040 Traffic Volumes
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4. Future Functional Classification
Re-designations of roadways involving the A-minor arterial functional classification (e.g. from
collector to arterial, from arterial to collector, or changing designations within arterial) is under
the authority of the Metropolitan Council. For collector roadways, the functional class
designation is under the authority of the agency that owns the given road.
The City of Scandia does not feel that any roadways within its borders need to be re-classified
from a functional classification perspective. The City is not aware that MN DOT or
Washington County wish to advance any such re-classifications. Therefore, Figure VIII-C is the
functional classification map for current and 2040 conditions.
5. Future Jurisdictional Classification
The City of Scandia does not anticipate a request for jurisdictional transfers regarding roadways
within its borders through the 2040 timeframe. Moreover, the City is not aware that
Washington County or MN DOT desire any such transfers. Therefore, Figure VIII-B identifies
both current and future jurisdictional classification information.
6. Access Management
Access management refers to balancing the need for connections to local land uses (access)
with the need for network-level movement (mobility) on the overall roadway system. By
functional classification, this may be summarized as follows:
• Arterials generally have limited access in the form of driveways and low volume side
streets because their role in the network is to support relatively long, high speed traffic
movements
• Collectors allow a greater degree of access given their combined mobility/access
function
• Local streets have relatively few limits on access because their primary function is to
provide access to adjacent land uses
Appropriate access control preserves the capacity on arterial and collector streets and improves
safety by separating local turning movements from higher-speed “through” traffic. Moreover, it
concentrates higher volume traffic linkages at intersections controlled with traffic signals,
roundabouts, or other measures.
MN DOT and Washington County Roadways in Scandia are identified on Figure VIII-B. For
MN DOT roadways, MN DOT access management guidelines apply. Similarly, for County
roadways, Washington County’s access management guidelines apply. MN DOT’s access
management guidelines are described in detail in their Access Management Manual.3
http://www.dot.state.mn.us/accessmanagement/resources.html When reviewing MN DOT’s
access guidelines, TH 97 in Scandia is classified as 5B (minor arterial, urban/urbanizing), and
TH 95 is classified as 5A (minor arterial, rural). Relevant MN DOT and Washington County
guidelines, respectively, are provided in Appendix E.
3 http://www.dot.state.mn.us/accessmanagement/resources.html
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Land use planning and subdivision regulation are the responsibility of the City. In conjunction
with local land planning, Scandia will require that new land development complies with MN
DOT and County access management guidelines as applicable. The City will work with MN
DOT and Washington County to consolidate driveway and street access to collector and arterial
roadways where applicable and feasible.
7. Future Right-of-Way Preservation
The City has not defined specific corridors for roadway development where right-of-way can
be defined and preserved at this point.
Transit Plan
1. Transit Market Area
The Metropolitan Council has defined Transit Market Areas based on the following primary
factors:
• Density of population and jobs
• Interconnectedness of the local street system
• Number of autos owned by residents
In general, areas with high density of population and jobs, highly interconnected local streets,
and relatively low auto ownership rates will have the greatest demand for transit services and
facilities. Transit Market Areas are a tool used to guide transit planning decisions. They help
ensure that the types and levels of transit service provided, in particular fixed-route bus service,
match the anticipated demand for a given community or area.
Based on this analysis, the Metropolitan Council categorizes the City of Scandia as Transit
Market Area V. As identified in Appendix G of the Metropolitan Council’s 2040
Transportation Policy Plan (TPP), the characteristics of this category area are as follows:
Transit Market Area V has very low population and employment densities and tends to be
primarily Rural communities and Agricultural uses. General public dial-a-ride service may be
appropriate here, but due to the very low-intensity land uses these areas are not well-suited for
fixed-route transit service.
Also, from Appendix G of the 2040 TPP (Table G-2), the typical transit service within this
Market Area consists of:
Not well-suited for fixed-route service. Primary emphasis is on general public dial-a-ride
services.
2. Current and Planned Service Facilities
a) Scheduled Transit Service
Consistent with the Metropolitan Council classifying Scandia as Transit Area V, there is no
scheduled transit service serving Scandia due to lack of demand. This includes no service
or facilities in the following categories:
• Scheduled local bus service
• High-frequency routes
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• Peak hour commuter bus service
• Rapid Bus Service
• Light Rail Transit (LRT) or Bus Rapid Transit (BRT)
• Transit facilities
• Transit advantages
The City of Scandia is not aware of any planned scheduled transit service within the City.
b) Dial-a-Ride Service
• Demand responsive transit service for all communities in Washington County is
provided by Metropolitan Council Metropolitan Transportation Services (MTS)
and consists of complementary services that are compliant with Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA), as well as general public dial-a-ride services. Transit Link
is the Twin Cities dial-a-ride minibus or van service for the general public where
regular route service is not available. Fares are based on time of day and distance
traveled.
These services are anticipated to continue in their current form into the foreseeable future.
Non-Motorized Transportation Plan
Existing and planned non-motorized transportation features in Scandia are discussed and
mapped in the Parks and Trails element of this 2040 Comprehensive Plan.
Metropolitan Council has designated the Regional Bicycle Transportation Network (RBTN).
This consists of prioritized alignments and corridors (where alignments have not yet been
established) that were adopted in the Council’s 2040 Transportation Policy Plan. There are no
RBTN alignments or corridors within or close to Scandia.
The largely rural nature of Scandia is not conducive to extensive pedestrian travel. The most
significant barrier to non-motorized movement would be TH 97, an east-west highway that
passes through central portion of Scandia and the northern portion of the Village Center area.
There is currently an all-way stop at the TH 97/Olinda Trail intersection that provides
protection for pedestrians using the sidewalk along Olinda Trail. Any future north-south trail
development would require appropriate crossing treatments at TH 97. Any safety study of the
TH 97 County Road 52 (Oakhill Road N) intersection as referenced above will include a non-
motorized transportation component.
Freight Plan
One railroad passes through the eastern fringes of Scandia from south to north. The railroad
tracks are owned by the Canadian National Railway and approximately two trains per week
utilize the railroad tracks, based on MN DOT information. There are no manufacturing or
distribution centers in Scandia. Freight movement is not a major factor for the City. Existing
HCAADT information is depicted in Figure VIII-A.
Aviation Plan
There are no aviation facilities or navigational aids located in Scandia. At present, the only
suggested air facilities considered in Scandia would be a seaplane base on Big Marine Lake.
The city is not in an influence area of a regional airport. The closest public-use airport to
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Scandia is the Osceola Municipal Airport (FAA Identifier OEO) located approximately 2.5
miles to the east-northeast. OEO is categorized as a Medium General Aviation Airport in
Wisconsin’s 2030 State Airport System Plan. As such, it is primarily used for recreational
flying with some business use and is not anticipated to increase operations significantly over
the next 20 years. Scandia is outside all federal airspace restrictions and state zoning controls
for OEO. Scandia is not in a primary flight path of OEO.
There are no structures within Scandia that exceed 500 feet in height. Any applicant who
proposes to construct a structure 200 feet above the ground that could affect navigable airspace
level must get appropriate approvals. The Federal Aviation Administration and the Minnesota
Department of Transportation must be notified at least 30 days in advance in advance of
construction, as required by law per MCAR 8800.1200, Subpart 3 and FAA Form 7460-8. It is
unlikely such a structure would be proposed in Scandia.
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IX. WATER RESOURCES
Water Resource Goals and Policies
Goal: Preserve and protect the quantity and quality of surface water and groundwater.
Objectives:
• Work cooperatively with all State and Federal agencies to comply with and enforce
regulations and standards such as Shoreland Management Regulations, Erosion and
Sediment Control Standards, Floodplain Regulations, and Stormwater
management.
• Identify sensitive groundwater recharge areas and groundwater dependent natural
resources to guide development and land use to minimize potential contamination
and incompatible uses.
• Require developers to restore the ability of soils to absorb, retain, and infiltrate
water following site development.
Goal: Improve stormwater management and land stewardship practices.
Objectives:
• Provide educational resources and materials to residents and businesses regarding
water quality, stormwater runoff, best management practices, and impaired waters.
• Incorporate low-impact techniques and best management practices on City owned
property.
Goal: Protect the natural and scenic resources of the St. Croix River Corridor, both within and
adjacent to the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway.
Objectives:
• Work cooperatively with the National Park Service, Department of Natural
Resources, and Carnelian Marine St. Croix Watershed District and adopt their
Local Water Management Plans.
Goal: Ensure financial and environmental accountability for installation, maintenance,
remediation, and management of any permitted private wastewater system.
Objectives:
• In cooperation with Washington County, enforce strict conformance with
regulations for the design, installation, and maintenance of on-site treatment
systems including minimum design, licensing, and installation requirements of the
Minnesota Rules Chapter 7080.
Wastewater
1. Forecasts
According the Metropolitan Council population, household, and employment forecasts and
City data, the City of Scandia will have the following sewer demands, as detailed in Table
IX-A.
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Table IX-A – Population, Housing, & Employment Sewer Allocation Forecasts
Forecast Component 2010 2020 2030 2040
Population
Unsewered 3,538 3,863 4,232 4,550
Private Systems 105 105 105 105
Public Systems 291 292 293 295
Total 3,934 4,260 4,630 4,950
Households
Unsewered 1,346 1,548 1,758 1,948
Private Systems 40 40 40 40
Public Systems 112 112 112 112
Total 1,498 1,700 1,910 2,100
Employment
Unsewered 484 583 651 690
Private Systems 0 0 0 0
Public Systems 35 37 39 40
Total 519 620 690 730
2. Existing System
The existing wastewater treatment system is comprised of several on-site septic systems,
two private wastewater treatment systems, and three small public wastewater systems.
a) Private On-Site Septic Systems
Wastewater treatment for residents of Scandia consists primarily of on-site septic
systems, shown in Figure IX-A. The city engineer has record of 1,426 on-site septic
systems in Scandia, including both households and employment establishments.
Responsibility for installation and maintenance of on-site septic systems lies with the
property owner. All systems must be installed and maintained to meet the standards of
the Washington County Subsurface Sewage Treatment System Ordinance, which is
consistent with Minnesota Rules Chapter 7080. The County’s SSTS Ordinance is
codified in the Development Code in Chapter 4, Ordinance #206. This ordinance
provides the basis for the County’s SSTS program, including requirements for
compliance inspections of existing systems, permitting and inspection of new systems,
site review, maintenance requirements, and operating permits for advanced treatment
systems (Type IV).
The City of Scandia has delegated responsibility for septic inspections to Washington
County. Washington County Ordinance 206, Section 22, requires owners of septic
systems to have tanks pumped at least once every three years. Washington County also
requires inspections at the point of sale for systems older than five years or for systems
that do not have a current compliance inspection, and these inspections are recorded
with the County. If Washington County becomes aware of non-compliant systems, the
County requires replacement of those systems.
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Figure IX-A – Existing Subsurface Sewage Systems
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b) Private Wastewater Systems
(1) The Tii Gavo (Permit MN0068217, expires 1/31/2028)
The Tii Gavo on Big Marine Lake WWTP facility is located at 2108 Olinda Trail
N, Scandia, Minnesota 55073, Washington County.
The Tii Gavo system on Big Marine Lake development is a 15-residential family
home development located in Washington County. The development includes
three-bedroom and four-bedroom units. The facility has a total wet weather
design flow of 13,065 gallons per day. The facility is designed based on a
CBOD5 loading of 21.1 lbs. per day (0.18 lb. per capita per day), a TSS loading
of 23.4 lbs. per day (0.02 lb. per capita per day), a total nitrogen loading of 3.2
lbs. per day (0.027 lbs. per capita per day), and a total phosphorus loading of 0.9
lbs. per day (0.008 lbs. per capita/day).
The facility consists of two 26,250 gallon compartmentalized septic tanks with
effluent filters in the last tank, one 8,438-gallon denitrification tank with carbon
source addition, one 7,500-gallon recirculation tank, one 3,300 square foot
recirculating gravel filter, one 10,000 gallon dosing tank, and six drip dispersal
zones totaling 33,120 square feet of infiltrative surface with an additional 11,040
square feet for reserve drainfield area. This is a Class C facility.
There are no designated bypass points in the treatment system. The permit
authorizes no discharge to surface waters. The facility is further described in
plans and specification on file with the MPCA.
(2) The Wyldewood Acres (Permit MN 0066567, expired 5/31/2018 but can
continue operations until issued a new permit by MPCA)
The Wyldewood Acres Wastewater Treatment Facility is located at SE ¼ of SE
¼ of section 15, Township 32 North, Range 20 West, Scandia, Washington
County, Minnesota. This is a Class D facility.
Major components of the Facility include:
27 Individual Grinder Pumps
1 Septic Tank (7,500 gal)
1 Septic Tank (7,500 gal) -compartmentalized
1 Constructed Wetland -subsurface flow (9,000 sq. ft.)
3 Subsurface Mounds (19,718 sq. ft.)
The facility is designed for 25 three and a half -bedroom homes and four three-
bedroom homes in Scandia.
Each house has an individual grinder pump, which pumps the sewage through a
two-inch high-density polyethylene low pressure force main, approximately
4,000 feet in length. Wastewater flows through magnetic influent flow meters
prior to two septic tanks operated in series. Both are 7,500 gallons; the first is un-
compartmentalized and the second has two compartments. The second tank
contains effluent filters. Next, wastewater is processed by one 9,000 square foot
constructed wetland treatment system. A 5,000 gallon dosing tank doses a 19,718
square foot drainfield system (pressurized infiltration chambers), which consists
of three zones with dedicated pumps to alternate usage of the zones.
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The Average Wet Weather (AWW) design flow is 8,925 gallons per day (gpd).
The influent five-day Biochemical Oxygen Demand concentration is
approximately 250 milligrams per liter (mg/L), and the Total Suspended Solids
concentration is approximately 250 mg/L.
There are no designated bypass points in the treatment system. The SDS Permit
authorizes no discharge to surface waters.
c) Public Wastewater Treatment Systems
There are three public wastewater treatment systems in Scandia serving multiple lots
and structures, shown in Figure IX-B. The operation, maintenance, and user charges for
these public systems are governed by City of Scandia Ordinance No. 189, included in
Appendix F of this comprehensive plan.
(1) Bliss Sewage Treatment Facility
The Bliss Sewage Treatment Facility’s treatment area is located on the western
side of Big Marine Lake, off of Manning Trail North. The facility serves 79
homes along Manning Trail North from the treatment area north to 191st Street
North to the homes along Langley Avenue North, Layton Avenue North, Lamar
Avenue North, and 185th Street North. It consists of three septic tanks totaling
7,500 gallons, three 15,000 square foot sand filters that are dosed by a lift station,
and three drainfield trench cells (1,200 feet per cell) which are dosed by a second
lift station. Based on drawdown tests performed in the spring of 2017, the two
pumps in LS #3 (dosing the sand filters) have capacities of approximately 300
and 250 gallons per minute, while the pumps in LS #4 (dosing the trench cells)
have capacities of about 110 and 190 gallons per minute. It processes an average
of around 7,000 gallons per day during the winter months and 11,000 during the
wettest summer months but has a permitted capacity of 19,800 gallons per day.
This system has had some issues with high nitrate levels in one of the monitoring
wells surrounding the facility. Currently, treatment options are being considered
to mitigate this issue. Additional connections to this system will be greatly
limited until improvements or upgrades are made to the system, given the nitrate
issues. Improvements to this system will need to be made to accommodate new
development, as development occurs.
(2) Anderson/Erikson Sewage Treatment Facility
The Anderson/Erikson Sewage Treatment Facility’s treatment area is located on
the eastern side of Big Marine Lake at the southern end of Norell Avenue North.
The system serves 33 homes along Norell Avenue North and those along 188th
Street North to the intersection with Newgate Avenue North. The
Anderson/Erikson Lift Station, which doses the drainfields, had pump capacities
of roughly 65 and 70 gallons per minute based on the 2017 drawdown tests. The
drainfield system itself was originally designed to treat 6,700 gallons per day.
Recent flows indicate that the system is treating slightly less than this amount, on
average, but regularly exceeds this capacity during peak days and months of the
year. Based on this information, the system is at capacity, and any other additions
to it would require further examination to assess the system’s capacity and
potential for expansion.
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(3) Uptown Wastewater Community Collector System
The Uptown Wastewater Community Collector System’s Treatment area is
located on Olinda Trail North, southeast of the village. The system serves Elim
Lutheran Church and the parsonage, the Scandia Café, the Scandia Store, the
Scandia Veterinary Clinic, the Country Messenger, the bank building, Schmitt
Mall, the Community and Senior Center, and the Gammelgarden. These nine
businesses currently have approximately 35 employees. The system was
expanded in 1999 for the Community Center and again in 2001 for the
Gammelgarden. In 2012, an equalization tank and an aerobic treatment tank,
complete with blower and air diffuser, were added to the system to treat nitrogen
and phosphorus in the wastewater, and to mitigate peak flows which are higher
than the system’s design capacity. The trench drain laterals comprise 2,250 feet
and 6,750 square feet of adsorption area. With the increased treatment provided
by the aeration, the design capacity of the system is approximately 4,050 gallons
per day. The average flow entering the system is 2,025 gallons per day and the
peak flow is about 7,500 gallons per day. Because this system serves venues that
frequently have highly-trafficked events that create high flows (e.g., the church
and community center), it has been determined that the system is essentially at
capacity. While the equalization basin functions to smooth out flow peaks,
addition of another institutional or commercial customer to the system could
prove too much for it and undermine treatment effectiveness. There is room on
the property to double the size of the drainfield. However, if the system is
expanded in the near future, then at some possible point further in the future, if
the drainfield fails due to solids loading of the ground, an entirely new site may
have to be found for construction of a new treatment system. This scenario
should be considered before adding additional customers to the Uptown system.
.
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Figure IX-B - Existing Public Wastewater System
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3. Capacity and Maintenance
The Bliss treatment system could still accept some additional flow before it reaches
capacity, around 6,000 gallons per day. However, the high nitrate level issues must be
addressed, either by expanding the system or adding a focused treatment process to remove
nitrate.
The Anderson/Erikson system is essentially at its design capacity, and it should be
evaluated before the addition of any more flow is considered. In general, it operates
nominally under capacity during average flow but above it during peak flows.
The Uptown Wastewater Community Collector System is also essentially at its capacity of
about 4,000 gallons per day. As with the Anderson/Erikson system, during normal flows it
operates below capacity, while during peak flows capacity is surpassed. The city’s future
land use plan expands the Village Center area to accommodate residential and commercial
growth. The City of Scandia owns land suitable for mound system expansion, adjacent to
the existing Uptown drainfield system. However, before considering adding more
properties to the collector system or expanding the drainfield, it should be considered that if
the drainfield is expanded, an entirely new location will need to be found for treatment in
the future when the current system reaches the end of its life (via solids loading of the soil).
For all systems discussed above, regular maintenance is key. Each of the systems has
numerous of inspection pipes, which allow water levels to be monitored and blockages
cleared in the drainfields. The tops of many of these inspection pipes have been damaged
and/or the caps lost, either by accidental collision while mowing or other causes. This has
the potential to allow dirt and debris into the system, causing blockages and issues, and
these pipes require maintenance and replacement as needed. Additionally, animal
encroachment, specifically gophers, have been noted in the vicinity of the systems. These
should be dealt with regularly, as in their burrowing they can do a great deal of damage to
this type of treatment system.
In general, new development will need to provide for their own wastewater systems. The
reliance on individual systems for future growth and development in the City will influence
development densities and lot sizes. Since new development will need to provide their own
wastewater, the City will consider allowing private community treatment systems on a
case-by-case basis. Installation and management requirements must follow all City and
County ordinances. Private community systems may be developed and overseen by the
county, provided they meet the conditions of the county’s ordinance for midsize sewage
treatment systems. Systems larger than 10,000 gallons per day are permitted by the MPCA.
4. Community and Subsurface Treatment Systems
The City of Scandia’s Development Code 13.14.2 states,
“Where lots cannot be connected with a public sewer system, provision must be made for
sanitary sewer facilities consisting of an individual disposal device for each lot. Such
provision shall be in accordance with Chapter Four of the Washington County
Development Code, Subsurface Sewage Treatment Systems Regulations.”
Installation of individual sewage treatment systems into low swampy areas, drainage
swales, floodplains or other areas subject to recurrent flooding is prohibited.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, individual sewage treatment systems in existence may
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continue in use if they are repaired and maintained in conformity with the requirements of
existing City and County Ordinances and maybe replaced if normal repairs and
maintenance to the existing system would not reasonably be expected to permit such
system to operate in conformity with the requirements of existing ordinances. Individual
Sewage Treatments Systems shall not be located within utility or drainage easements nor
within dedicated public or private rights-of –way without proper approvals.
The construction of community sewage treatment systems may be provided for all lots
within a subdivision, providing they meet applicable MPCA and Washington County
Health Department requirements and an entity other than lot owners or the City of Scandia
can demonstrate capability of operating and maintaining the system. This may be done as
an alternative to either individual sewage treatment systems or a public sewer system.
Subsurface sewage treatment systems in the City of Scandia are also subject to regulations
in Chapter Four of Washington County’s Development Code, adopted in 2015.
Surface Water
1. Background
The City completed its Local Water Management Plan (LWMP), and it is currently under
final review by relevant watershed districts. The plan serves as a comprehensive planning
document to guide the City in conserving, protecting and managing its surface water
resources. The plan was developed to meet the requirements of Minnesota Statutes 103B and
Minnesota Rules 8410, to be consistent with the goals and policies of the Metropolitan
Council’s Water Resources Management Policy Plan, and the goals and policies of the three
watershed management organizations that have jurisdiction within the City. The plan and its
amendments will be adopted by the City as an element of this Comprehensive Plan.
The LWMP includes a detailed description of the City’s natural resources, including water
resources, past studies and inventories, and current surface water management. An
assessment of the existing and potential water resource and stormwater related concerns
within the City and associated corrective actions are provided. The LWMP also includes
goals and policies to address the long-term surface water management needs in the City, and
outlines the regulations, standards, practices, projects and funding that will be needed to
implement the goals and policies.
The lakes and other critical environmental features in Scandia are one of the reasons the City
is an attractive place to live. However, residential development on and near these lakes can
impact the water quality and wildlife habitat if not properly managed. One of the primary
concerns is the impact of impervious surfaces on water quality. In order to protect lakes from
the negative impacts of development, federal, state and local authorities have established
rules that protect natural resources against the impacts of development. The City of Scandia is
generally subject to the following regulatory authority and strategic plans.
• City of Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan
• City of Scandia Ordinances
• Carnelian Marine-St. Croix Watershed District, Watershed Management Plan, amended
2015
• Comfort Lake-Forest Lake Watershed District, Watershed Management Plan, 2012-2021
• Rice Creek Watershed District, 2010 Watershed Management Plan, updates in 2020
• City of Scandia Comprehensive Plan Update, 2018
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• City of Scandia Development Code, 2011
• City of Scandia, Shoreland Management Regulations, 2007
• Washington County Groundwater Plan, 2014
• Washington County Model Groundwater Rules, 2004
• North and East Metro Groundwater Management Area Plan, 2015
• Minnesota Department of Natural Resources North & East Metro Groundwater, 2015
Management Area Plan
2. Watershed Management Organizations
Scandia is located in three watershed districts: Carnelian Marine-St. Croix, Comfort Lake-
Forest Lake, and Rice Creek. This section briefly describes the most recent local water
management plan for each of the three watershed districts within the City of Scandia,
followed by a comparison of the goals, objectives and policies of each plan. Management
districts and subwatersheds are also noted. Subwatershed plans provide more geographic
and issue specific management within the larger watershed. Figure IX-C shows the
watershed management organization boundaries within Scandia.
Carnelian Marine-St. Croix Watershed District, Watershed Management Plan, 2015
About 78% of the City of Scandia falls within the CMSCWD, encompassing the eastern
and southern halves of the city. The Carnelian Marine-St. Croix Watershed District’s
(CMSCWD) most recent watershed management plan was created in 2011 and was
amended in 2015 to better address invasive species and groundwater quality. The plan
contains the goals, policies and management plans of the CMSCWD and guides the
watershed’s activities until 2020. CMSCWD also developed individual lake and stream
plans for all waterbodies in the District.
The plan includes a Focused Watershed Management process based on three levels of
activity:
• Routine Watershed Management for the non-impaired water resources of the
District—these are the basic, day-to-day programs implemented throughout
the District.
• Impaired Watershed Management for water resources that are classified as
impaired waters—includes completion of TMDL studies for impaired
waters and implementation of the recommendations from these studies
• Focused Watershed Management for non-impaired waters—includes efforts
to protect non-impaired waters so they do not become impaired, by
enhancing routine management activities on identified water bodies.
CMSCWD completed a district-wide Wetland Management Plan in July 2010 and amended
the plan in September of 2015. An electronic version of the plan is available on the
District’s website. The plan includes a wetland function and value assessment, wetland
management goals, management standards, buffer standards, and identification of Wetland
Preservation Areas within the District.
Based on the functions and values assessment, the plan includes a wetland classification
system with four categories. The categories include:
• High Quality/Highest Priority
• Stream Corridor and Shoreland Wetlands
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• Isolated Wetlands
• Utilized Wetlands
Comfort Lake-Forest Lake Watershed District, Watershed Management Plan, 2011
The northwest quadrant of the city falls within the Comfort Lake-Forest Lake Watershed
District (CLFLWD). Drainage from the watershed enters the Sunrise River, a tributary of
the St. Croix River. The CLFLWD’s most recent watershed management plan was created
in 2011 with revisions adopted and approved by the BWSR in August 2015. The plan
contains the goals, objectives, and actions of the CLFLWD and guides the watershed’s
activities until 2021.
The CLFLWD plan has eight core goals areas:
• Floodplains
• Lakes
• Streams
• Wetlands
• Uplands Resources
• Groundwater
• Public Education
• Interagency Coordination
Most of Scandia within the CLFLWD falls within the Bone Lake Management District. A
small portion of the city (northwestern most corner) belongs in the Little Comfort Lake
Management District. CLFLWD developed a Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) plan
for Bone Lake, discussed below in the section on Impaired Waters. The District completed
a Partially Drained Wetland Assessment in 2014.
Rice Creek Watershed District, Watershed Management Plan, 2010 (amended 2016)
The Rice Creek Watershed District’s (RCWD) most recent watershed management plan
was created in 2010. The plan contains the objectives, policies, and management strategies
of the RCWD and guides the watershed’s activities until 2020. Only 0.2% of the City of
Scandia falls within the RCWD. This area encompasses all of White Rock Lake and is part
of the Hardwood Creek Planning Region. The primary issues within the Hardwood Creek
Planning Region are related to water levels within Rice Lake, the lack of a well-defined
regulatory floodplain along the Hardwood Creek, and appropriate management methods for
Hardwood Creek and its riparian corridor.
The RCWD’s 2010 Watershed Management Plan has eight objectives:
• Increase knowledge, awareness, and capacity for decision-making among
District constituents
• Manage water systems for their ecological and community value
• Recognize the origin and interconnectedness of water systems while planning
for current and future needs
• Improve diversity and ecological integrity of wetlands
• Minimize damage to infrastructure and property caused by flooding and
excessive runoff
• Capitalize on open space opportunities to enhance water quality, reduce runoff
volume, and enhance ecological resources
• Incorporate groundwater into the decision-making process
• Manage District property and resources responsibly
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Figure IX-C - Watershed Drainage Area
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Water Resources
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3. Physical Environment and Land Use
Public waters are all water basins and watercourses that meet the criteria set forth in
Minnesota Statutes, § 103.005, subd. 15. Of the many wetlands and water bodies within the
city’s boundaries, 40 of them have been classified as public waters in accordance with the
guidelines of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.
Public waters within Scandia range in size from 2 acres to nearly 2,000 acres of water
surface and include several water bodies of regional significance. Table IX-B provides
information on all public waters and their acreage. The St. Croix River, a federally
designated National Scenic Riverway, forms the eastern border of the city. Big Marine
Lake, in the southwestern portion of the city, is the second largest lake in Washington
County. Existing and future development in areas surrounding public waters should be
carefully managed and planned to prevent adverse impact on water resources.
a) National Wetland Inventory
The National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) is a national program sponsored by the US
Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). Based on the NWI data, the City of Scandia has
approximately 2,900 acres of wetlands based on the NWI data. Additional wetland
information is summarized in the City’s Local Water Management Plan and the
CMSCWD Wetland Management Plan (2015).
b) Existing and Future Land Use: While Scandia allows for a variety of land uses,
development densities are low to maintain the rural character of the community and to
be compatible with agricultural uses. Residential development densities range from 0.1
to 0.4 units per acre. Commercial, retail, and industrial land uses are guided to be near
existing infrastructure, including water and wastewater services. Likewise, the city
anticipates a majority of residential growth to occur in and around the Village
Neighborhood Zoning District, which is primarily centered around the historical city
center. The Village Neighborhood Zoning District encompasses Goose Lake and
borders the western shore of Big Marine Lake. The expansion of the Village
Neighborhood Zoning District will reduce the amount of land zoned for agriculture or
rural densities (4 units/40 acres). Low densities will be maintained to accommodate
agriculture. Comprehensive land use descriptions can be found in the Land Use section
of the Comprehensive Plan.
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Table IX-B – Waterbodies within Scandia
Water Body Name Public Water
Inventory ID
Shoreland Management
Classification Acres
Alice 82-287 P Natural Environment 26.03
Big Marine 82-052 P Recreational Development 1902.59
Bone 82-054 P Recreational Development 218.47
Clear 82-078 W Natural Environment 35.28
Elwell 82-079 W Natural Environment 18.86
Falls Creek (Section 1.6.7.12) Wild and Scenic -
Fish 82-064 P Natural Environment 64.99
German 82-056 P Natural Environment 151.20
Goose 82-059 P Natural Environment 84.04
Hay 82-065 P Natural Environment 59.32
Keewahtin 82-080 P Recreational Development 108.25
Long 82-068 P Natural Environment 46.12
Nielson 82-055 W Natural Environment 49.65
Pitzl Pond 82-282 W Natural Environment 36.19
Rasmussen Pond 82-070 W Natural Environment 18.24
Sand 82-067 P Natural Environment 47.41
Sea 82-053 W Natural Environment 51.67
St. Croix River 82-001 P Wild and Scenic River -
Washington 82-169 W Natural Environment 22.34
White Rock 82-072 P Natural Environment 80.88
Wojtowicz Pond 82-058 W Natural Environment 16.8
Unnamed 82-057 W Natural Environment 27.52
Unnamed 82-060 W Natural Environment 26.26
Unnamed 82-061 W Natural Environment 14.37
Unnamed 82-062 W Natural Environment 17.44
Unnamed 82-066 W Natural Environment 33.75
Unnamed 82-081 W Natural Environment 41.29
Unnamed 82-171 W Natural Environment 14.54
Unnamed 82-172 W Natural Environment 26.95
Unnamed 82-173 W Natural Environment 10.49
Unnamed 82-174 W Natural Environment 26.49
Unnamed 82-210 W Natural Environment 25.12
Unnamed 82-211 W Natural Environment 10.84
Unnamed 82-212 W Natural Environment 17.46
Unnamed 82-213 W Natural Environment 10.88
Unnamed 82-280 W Natural Environment 19.48
Unnamed 82-281 W Natural Environment 7.46
Unnamed 82-283 P Natural Environment 8.46
Unnamed 82-284 P Natural Environment 2.08
Unnamed 82-285 P Natural Environment 14.73
Unnamed 82-286 P Natural Environment 5.17
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4. Existing and Potential Water Resource Related Problems
In 2015, 12 lakes in or partially located in Scandia were monitored as part of the
Metropolitan Council’s Citizen-Assisted Monitoring Program (CAMP). In this program,
lakes are sampled every two weeks from mid-April through mid-October. During each
sampling, temperature, dissolved oxygen, and Secchi depth transparency were measured
and recorded. A surface water sample was also collected and analyzed for total phosphorus,
total Kjeldahl nitrogen, and cholorophyll-a. Total phosphorus is a key measure of lake
nutrients, chlorophyll-a is a measure of algae abundance, and Secchi depth transparency is
a measure of water clarity.
The Metropolitan Council uses the monitoring data to assign each lake a water quality
grade using an A through F grading system. The grading system uses percentile ranges for
three water quality indicators-summertime average values for total phosphorous,
chlorophyll-a, and Secchi depth transparency. An overall grade is calculated as the average
grade for the three individual grades. The individual grades given to the lakes can be seen
in Table IX-C. Five of the monitored lakes yielded insufficient information, five were given
a “C” grade, none were given a “B” grade, and two lakes received an “A.”
Table IX-C – CAMP Ratings for Lakes Within Scandia
Lake Rating
Alice Insufficient Data
Big Marine A
Bone C
Fish Insufficient Data
German Insufficient Data
Goose C
Hay Insufficient Data
Jellum’s Bay C
Long B
Sand C
Keewahtin A
White Rock C
Under the federal Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C.) the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
(MPCA) is required to set standards and assess Minnesota waters for impairments. The
standards are set on a wide range of pollutants, including bacteria, nutrients, turbidity, and
mercury. A water body is listed as impaired by the MPCA if it fails to meet one or more
water quality standards. If a water body is listed as impaired, a Total Maximum Daily Load
(TMDL) must be established for the pollutant, and plans must be created to reduce TMDLs.
Scandia will be required to participate in TMDL plans for impaired water bodies within its
borders. Figure IX-D shows the locations of impaired water bodies in Scandia while Tables
IX-D and IX-E provide detail on specific impairments.
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Figure IX-D - Impaired Waters
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Water Resources
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Table IX-D – Impaired Water Bodies in Scandia
Water Body Nutrients Invasive Species PCBs Mercury
Big Marine Lake X Eurasian watermilfoil X
Bone Lake X Eurasian watermilfoil;
Curly-leaf pondweed
Fish Lake X
Goose Lake X
Hay Lake X
Long Lake X
Sea Lake Eurasian watermilfoil;
Curly-leaf pondweed
St. Croix River X X
White Rock Lake X
Table IX-E – Water Bodies Listed on Minnesota’s 303 List
Water Body
Concerns
Other Considerations Total Phosphorus Chlorophyll-a Secchi
Transparency
Fish Lake X X X Walleye Rearing
Goose Lake X X Bluegill; northern pike
Hay Lake X X
Jellum’s Bay (Bay in
Big Marine Lake) X X Walleye Rearing
Long Lake X X X Walleye Rearing
Source: Carnelian-Marine Watershed District TMDL Plan, 2011
5. Local Implementation Plan/Program
Implementation of the Scandia Local Water Management Plan will require cooperation
with local Watershed Districts to implement projects within the City that are identified in
the District Plans. The City supports the projects identified in the District Plans and Capital
Improvement Plans that are within Scandia, including the projects listed in Table IX-F.
The CMSCWD plan describes three categories of activities that are included in the
District’s Implementation Program: routine watershed management, focused watershed
management, and impaired watershed management. Most of the activities included in these
efforts are implemented by the District. Some are implemented in cooperation with local
landowners and volunteers. The Cost-share Program identifies several existing or potential
water quality and environmental issues that will be addressed by the program. The District
has ranked the proposed projects on a watershed basis. Many of the projects will be carried
out in cooperation with private landowners.
The CLFLWD’s Management Plan includes three categories of implementation activities:
Administration, Programs and Projects. Administration activities are carried out by the
CLFLWD. Programs include development of District rules and permitting activities,
education and outreach. As noted above, the City concurs with and adopts the District’s
Water Management Plan, standards and rules. The CLFLWD Districts will continue to
enforce surface water regulations and permitting within the City, within its geographic area.
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A small portion of Scandia is included within the Rice Creek Watershed District—the area
around White Rock Lake. The District’s Plan includes no implementation projects for the
White Rock Lake area. The City supports the District’s efforts to study this lake and
identify potential issues related to water quality and lake management.
Table IX-F – Future Surface Water Improvement Projects
Watershed
District Project
Improvement Cost
Estimate1
Low High
CM
S
C
W
D
205th Street – St. Croix River Bluff Erosion
Control and Stormwater Quality Project $15,000 $25,000
Neighborhood Small Lot Stormwater
Management Incentive Program in Downtown
Scandia and Lake Neighborhoods
$30,000 $50,000
TMDL Study Implementation Projects TBD – As Constructed
Ravine Reconstruction $60,000 $85,000
Non-Specific Project in its Focused Watersheds,
including Sand Lake $40,000/Year for 10 Years
CL
F
L
W
D
Bone Lake TMDL Implementation Plan –
Numerous Projects TBD – As Constructed
Water Quality Studies and Develop Management
Plans for Sea Lake, Nielsen Lake and Clear Lake TBD – As Constructed
Stream Assessment of the Bone-Birch-School-
Little Comfort Lake Tributary TBD – As Constructed
RCWD White Rock Lake (RCWD) No Projects Planned
1 Cost estimates include only stormwater related improvements.
Water Supply
1. Local Water Supply Plan
As with wastewater treatment, most residences and businesses in Scandia are served by on-
site drinking water wells installed and maintained by the landowner. There are three
community drinking water wells in the Village Center serving multiple residences and
businesses. In addition, there is a public well serving the Fire Department and Public
Works building. The public well locations are show on Figure IX-E.
Minnesota Rules Chapter 4720 requires the development of Wellhead Protection Plans
(WHPP). Scandia Elementary has worked with the Minnesota Department of Health and
completed Phase I of the WHPP. The City of Scandia may be required to complete WHPPs
for all public water supply systems if required by the Minnesota Department of Health.
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Figure IX-E - Water Distribution
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Water Resources
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a) Hilltop Water Company
The Hilltop Water Company is a private water system that serves 25 homes and
businesses in the Village Center. The company’s service area extends along Olinda
Trail North from Highway 97 to Oakhill Road and along Oakhill Road. The well was
drilled in 1980, and approximately 275 feet deep. The well pump is assumed to have a
design capacity of approximately 50 gpm and two 82-gallon pressure tanks provide
water storage. Ground elevations in the Hilltop water system are approximately 40 feet
above the City of Scandia facilities. The water system is set to maintain water pressures
between 40-60 psi.
b) Scandia Water Company
The Scandia Water Company is a private water system serving 19 properties along
Olinda Trail North to the North of Highway 97.
c) Uptown Well/Scandia Community Center Well
The Uptown Well is located at the Scandia Senior/Community Center, 14727 209th
Street North. It serves the Senior/Community Center/City Hall and a number of
properties within the village including Elim Church and parsonage, the Gammelgarden,
and the ice rink-warming house. The well was completed in June 1996 and is 463 feet
deep with 70 gallons per minute (gpm) well pump. Four 119-gallon tanks provide
pressure to the water system when the well is off and provide water storage. The water
system provides water system pressures of approximately 45-70 pounds per square inch
(psi) to the water system as measured at the warming house mechanical room.
In 2011, the City completed a study on a water system connection between the Uptown
Well and Hilltop Water Company system. The recommendation emergency
interconnection between the City and Hilltop water systems includes an approximately
4-inch water main directly between the two wells. This would provide sufficient
backup water supply for both water systems and the interconnection would meet the
MDH recommendation for backup water supply for the Hilltop Water Company and
would not change existing systems requirements of either water system.
d) New Scandia Fire Hall Well
The New Scandia Fire Hall Well is located to the north of Highway 97 at the
intersection of Ozark Avenue North. The well was completed in May 2000 and is 790
feet deep. The well serves the Fire Department and Public Works, which are both
located in the Fire Hall.
e) Wyldewood Acres
Wyldewood Acres is a private water system designed to serve 23 three-and-a-half
bedroom homes and four three-bedroom homes. The system is owned and operated by
the Wyldewood Acres HOA
2. Assessing and Protecting the Water Source
Scandia is part of the DNR’s North and East Metro Groundwater Management Area, shown
in Figure IX-F. A small segment of the city located south of Highway 97 and west of
Manning Ave is also in the Drinking Water Supply Management Area for Minneapolis/St.
Paul. The Minnesota Department of Health has identified a portion of the city for a
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Moderate to Highly Vulnerable Drinking Water Supply Management Plan; this area is
located south of Highway 97, west of Olinda Trail, and east of Meadowbrook Avenue N.
The city will work with the DNR, Department of Health, and other relevant agencies as
necessary to ensure groundwater within these management areas is protected.
Figure IX-F - Water Supply System Interconnections and Management Areas
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There are two DNR observation wells located in Scandia, shown in Figure IX-G. Well
195728 is located near the eastern side of Big Marine Lake. This well is showing a
downward trend in annual minimum values, meaning water is being used faster than it is
being replenished. Well 244593 is located north of White Rock Lake. There is insufficient
data at this well to determine a trend in annual minimum values.
Figure IX-G – Ground Level Monitoring Wells
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Water Resources
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The city will also take special consideration of wetlands that receive and discharge
groundwater or recharge aquifers to prevent potential contamination of groundwater
drinking sources, shown in Figure IX-H.
Figure IX-H – Surface Water and Groundwater Interaction
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Sub-Regional Collaboration
The Washington County Groundwater Plan provides a countywide framework for the
protection and conservation of groundwater resources. The current plan was approved in
2014 and guides the protection of groundwater resources in the county until 2024.
The overall goal of the Washington County Groundwater Plan is to protect the economic
and environmental values groundwater provides through coordinated, intergovernmental
efforts in research and assessment, policies, political influence, regulation, education, and
consultation, and technical assistance. The plan has six main goals:
• Concisely outline the physical nature of groundwater resources, discuss the issues
that threaten groundwater, and provide direction and strategies on how to protect
groundwater for future generations
• Provide context and organization for stakeholders and residents to better
understand the complex water governance structure
• Serve as a framework to develop annual work plans for the county and its
stakeholders that give specific implementation actions to address the groundwater
issues in this plan
• Compliment and coordinate with other state, regional, county, and local planning
efforts
• Guide collaboration on groundwater initiatives with state, regional, and local
partners more efficiently and effectively
• Be a resource for stakeholders and residents regarding groundwater information
pertinent to the county.
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X. IMPLEMENTATION
Implementation Plan
The Comprehensive plan creates a vision for the City of Scandia and guides land use and
infrastructure improvements so that the City can meet the needs of the community in the future.
The vision of the plan can only be realized if the plan is used. Tools to implement the plan will
vary in that some will be reactive, such as zoning and subdivision ordinances that guide private
developments, and others will be proactive, such as the City’s Capital Improvement Program
(CIP) for undertaking public improvement projects.
1. Official Controls
To achieve the goals and objectives of this Comprehensive Plan, the City of Scandia has
adopted a Development Code to establish regulations for zoning, subdivision of land, and
shoreland and floodplain areas. The Development Code was originally adopted in
November of 2010, with ongoing amendments as needed. Scandia’s Development Code
incorporates all land development regulations into a single code.
Zoning
City zoning codes regulate land use to promote the health, safety, order, convenience, and
general welfare of all citizens. They regulate location, size, use and height of buildings, the
arrangement of buildings on lots, and the density of population within the City. The City’s
zoning districts effectively guide development in Scandia.
The City of Scandia is divided into nine zoning districts, detailed below and shown in
Figure X-A. There are permitted and accessory uses in most districts, as well as the other
allowed uses under conditional use permit, interim use permits, or administrative permits.
Table X-A provides a high-level summary of each zoning district, and Table X-B provides
a summary of each overlay district.
To ensure compliance with this 2040 Comprehensive Plan, the following zoning ordinance
changes will need to be implemented:
• Update zoning map based on future land use plan
• Reconcile inconsistencies between current zoning ordinance and intended future
land uses
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
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Figure X-A – Current Zoning Map
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
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Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Zo
n
i
n
g
C
l
a
s
s
i
f
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
s
Agricultural
Preserves
District (AP)
General Description
This district plans for the continuation of the Agricultural Preserves Program in Scandia.
Regulations fulfill standards to make land eligible for the Metropolitan Agricultural Preserves
according to Minnesota Statute 473H, as amended, to remain in long-term agricultural production.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Agricultural production
• Agricultural businesses and services
• Single family residential
• Essential Services
• Feedlots and livestock operations
• Parks and recreation facilities
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
General farming services
Density /Intensity 1 unit per 40 acres. Maximum lot coverage is 25%.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Continued viability of agricultural uses considered in siting of structures and drives
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) I. Character Area:
Agricultural Districts (A-P and AG-C)
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Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Agricultural
Core (AG-C)
General Description The AG-C District is established to protect and preserve land for long-term agricultural production.
Residential development compatible with agriculture is permitted.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Agricultural production
• Agricultural businesses and services
• Single family residential
• Essential Services
• Feedlots and livestock operations
• Parks and recreation facilities
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
• General farming services
Density/Intensity
4 buildable lots per 40 acres. Lots shall be 2 to 5 acres in size or 20 acres or greater. Maximum lot
coverage is 25%.
An open space conservation subdivision providing the minimum required open space shall receive a
25% density bonus. The number of additional bonus lots allowed is directly tied to the quantity and
quality of preservation and protection afforded natural landscapes, agricultural land, open space, and
cultural features. The maximum bonus permitted is 75%.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Continued viability of agricultural uses considered in siting of structures and drives
• Open space conservation subdivisions are encouraged
• Bonus density incentives may be offered in open space conservation subdivisions only if
agricultural protection is the focal point of the subdivision design
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) I. Character Area: Agricultural
Districts (A-P and AG-C)
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Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Rural
Residential
General
District (RR-
G)
General Description
Lands zoned Rural Residential General(RR-G)are established to provide for principal residential use
with estate or large-lot development patterns. The RR-G District includes lot or parcel
configurations that are generally unplatted, including mostly non-riparian land. The RR-G District
areas are guided General Rural in the Comprehensive Plan.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Agricultural production
• Agricultural businesses and services
• Single family residential
• Essential Services
• Feedlots and livestock operations
• Parks and recreation facilities
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
• General farming services
Density/Intensity
4 buildable lots per 40 acres; minimum lot size of 2 acres. Maximum lot coverage is 25%.
An open space conservation subdivision providing the minimum required open space shall receive a
25% density bonus. The number of additional bonus lots allowed is directly tied to the quantity and
quality of preservation and protection afforded natural landscapes, agricultural land, open space, and
cultural features. The maximum bonus permitted is 75%.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Continued viability of agricultural uses considered in siting of structures and drives
• Open space conservation subdivisions are encouraged for subdivisions
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) II. Character Area: Rural
Residential Districts (RR-G and RR-N)
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Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Rural
Residential
Neighborhood
District (RR-
N)
General Description
Lands zoned RR-N are the parcels adjoining, abutting, or a portion of which are within 1,000 feet of
a lake with a public waters designation that were historically platted or divided into smaller lots for
seasonal use. The use of these lots has generally transitioned to permanent year-round use with
predominantly principal residential uses. Most parcels and lots in the RR-N District are at least 50%
contained within the Shoreland Management Overlay (SM-O) District. In addition to the standards
identified in this Section, the lots or parcels are subject to the regulations contained within Chapters
155 of the City Code and the Washington County St. Croix River District standards which are
incorporated by reference herein. Land zoned RR-N are guided Agricultural Core and General Rural
in the Comprehensive Plan.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Agricultural production
• Single family residential
• Essential Services
• Parks and recreation facilities
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
Density/Intensity 4 buildable lots per 40 acres; minimum lot size of 2 acres. Maximum lot coverage is 25%.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Continued viability of agricultural uses considered in siting of structures and drives
• Open space conservation subdivisions are encouraged for subdivisions
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) II. Character Area: Rural
Residential Districts (RR-G and RR-N)
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Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Village –
Historic Core
District (V-
HC)
General Description
The V-HC District is established to sustain the historic village center by preserving and protecting
the long-term viability of historic properties and structures, and by allowing a mixture of mutually
supportive land uses. The mixture of commercial, office, institutional, recreational, and residential
land uses are made compatible through the enforcement of design guidelines.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Commercial, office, retail
• Public and private institutions
• Civic buildings
• Light industrial
• Parks and recreation
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory Structures
• Recreation facilities and equipment
Density /Intensity 5 dwelling units per acre. No new subdivisions of land permitted. Maximum lot coverage of 80%.
Maximum building height is 45 feet.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• In the core of the Village, buildings shall be of a size and have setbacks that reflect the
“downtown” character
• Scandia Architectural Design Guidelines and Unified Development Code Character Area
Standards should be used as an example to protect the historic elements and further development
should match these styles
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) III. Character Area: Village
Districts (V-N, V-C and V-HC)
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Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Village Center
District (V-C)
General Description
The V-C District is established to provide a growth area around the Village Center. The District
provides for a mixture of commercial, office, institutional, recreational, and residential land uses.
The District provides an area for larger scale businesses, for businesses that benefit from visibility
from MN Hwy 97, and for business and mixed-use development that utilize on-site wastewater
treatment systems.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Department, discount, and warehouse stores
• Garden supply stores
• Laundromats
• Sports and fitness clubs, less than 4,000 square feet in area
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory Structures
• Recreation facilities and equipment
Density /Intensity 5 dwelling units per acre. Maximum lot coverage 65%. Maximum building height 45 feet
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) III. Character Area: Village Districts
(V-N, V-C and V-HC)
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Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Village
Neighborhood
District (V-N)
General Description The V-N District is established to designate growth areas surrounding the village center, to support
primarily single-family residential uses on lot sizes reflective of the existing village lot sizes.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Single family residential
• Public parks and recreation
• Agriculture
• Essential Services
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
Recreation facilities and equipment
Density/Intensity
Single family: 4 dwelling unit per 40 acres in the same Quarter-Quarter Section. 1 dwelling unit per
1.5 acres (where applicable).
Densities up to 1 dwelling unit per 1.5 acre may be utilized depending on the land use intensity and
the ability of the site and/or system to manage wastewater.
Lots sizes in the Goose Lake shoreland area shall remain consistent with those allowed under the
current shoreland ordinance.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Design standards shall ensure that new development is visually compatible with existing village
development patterns.
• Street and sidewalk standards ensure new development is well-connected to the Village Center
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) III. Character Area: Village
Districts (V-N, V-C and V-HC)
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Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Industrial
Park District
(I-P)
General Description
The IP District is established to allow for light industrial businesses. IP District areas are designated
Village Mixed Use in the Comprehensive Plan. Industrial park uses include a variety of light
manufacturing, fabrication, assembly, warehouse, wholesaling or storage businesses that are non-
threatening to the environment. The IP District does not abut major roadways, and property access is
via a local street which does not also serve residential districts.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Permitted uses:
• Building Supplies
• Contractor Operations
• Light Manufacturing and Assembly
• Essential services
• Government Buildings
• Recreational Uses
Secondary uses:
• Accessory Structures
• Off-Street Parking
• Temporary Produce Stands
Density /Intensity 2.0 acres minimum lot size, 1 acre minimum buildable area. Maximum lot coverage 65%. Maximum
building height 45 feet
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) IV. Character Area: Business Districts
(R-C and I-P)
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Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Rural
Commercial
District (R-C)
General Description
Lands zoned Rural Commercial are intended to support commercial development of rural areas in
the community that have historically been used for some type of business use. R-C zoned land is
guided Rural Commercial in the Comprehensive Plan.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Permitted uses:
• Agriculture
• Banks, Credit Unions, and other financial institutions
• Bed and Breakfast Inns
• Offices
• Motor Vehicle Service Stations
• Restaurants
Secondary uses:
• Accessory Structures
• Off-Street Parking
Density /Intensity 2.0 acres minimum lot size, 1 acre minimum buildable area. Maximum lot coverage 65%. Maximum
building height 45 feet
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) IV. Character Area: Business Districts
(R-C and I-P)
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Table X-B – Overlay Districts
Ov
e
r
l
a
y
D
i
s
t
r
i
c
t
s
Aggregate
Mining
Overlay
District
General Description
The Aggregate Mining Overlay District provides areas where mineral deposits, primarily gravel,
may be made available for general use under the conditions and regulations of Chapter 4 of the
Scandia Development Code, Mining and Related Activities Regulations. The Aggregate Mining
Overlay District areas are designated Mining Area in the Comprehensive Plan.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Permitted uses:
• Mining
• Essential services
Secondary uses:
• Accessory Structures
Density /Intensity 1 parcel with at least 40 contiguous acres in size
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Mining uses must comply with local and state extractive use regulations. Reclamation plan must
restore the natural resource of the site to a level such that the land is suitable for he planned future
land uses such as agriculture or residential.
Shoreland
Ordinance
General Description The Shoreland Ordinance was adopted to protect the public resource that is shoreland around lakes,
ponds, and rivers.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Single family residential
• Parks and historic sites
• Agriculture
Density /Intensity Density limitations are dependent on the underlying zoning. Some exceptions to this will apply and
requirements for those can be found in Chapter Five of the Development Code.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
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Table X-B – Overlay Districts
Saint Croix
River
Overlay
District
General Description
The city adopts by reference the Washington County Lower St. Croix River Bluffland and
Shoreland Management Ordinance, as amended, until such time that the City Council adopts a City
of Scandia Lower St. Croix River corridor ordinance for this zone. Until then, properties within the
Lower St. Croix River Corridor Overlay District are regulated according to the Washington County
Lower St. Croix River Bluffland and Shoreland Management Ordinance with the exception that lots
shall meet the density and lot requirements of the Agriculture District – Core (AG C).
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Conservancy
• Agriculture
• Single Family Residential
Secondary uses:
• Accessory uses which are incidental to the permitted primary uses of the property
Density /Intensity Density limitations are dependent on the underlying zoning.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Both aesthetic elements and uses have regulations within the code adopted by Washington County.
Floodplain
Overlay
District
General Description Promote the public health, safety, and general welfare and to minimize accidental losses.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• General open spaces used for uses such as boat launching ramps, swimming areas, parks,
wildlife and nature preserve, fish hatcheries and hunting and fishing areas.
• Residential units
Density /Intensity Density limitations are dependent on the underlying zoning.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Only uses that have a low flood damage potential will be allowed. The use will be allowed by the
underlying zoning district. The use shall not obstruct flows or increase flood elevation.
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Subdivision of Land
The Subdivision Ordinance regulates the subdivision and platting of land within the City
providing for the orderly, economic and safe development of land and facilitating the
adequate provision for transportation, water, sewage, storm drainage, electric utilities,
streets, parks and other public services and facilities essential to any development. City
controls to regulate subdivision of land include an application process, legal notice and
public hearings by the Planning Commission, and approval by the City Council. The
process includes imposing applicable fees, a development agreement prescribing the
standards for the development and imposing penalties for the violation of its provisions.
The subdivision of land promotes the public health, safety and general welfare of the
people and helps achieve the vision of this comprehensive plan by providing for standards
in the development of land.
The City also prohibits premature subdivisions. The Development Code defines a
premature subdivision as any development inconsistent with the Comprehensive Plan,
inconsistent with the City’s CIP, inconsistent with environmental regulations, and lacking
adequate infrastructure, including sewage treatment systems, streets and drainage.
2. CIP
Capital improvement projects are major projects that benefit the City, including the
construction or reconstruction of roads and sidewalks, sewer and water utilities, trails, and
park and recreation facilities, as well the purchase of new or replacement equipment and
buildings. A capital improvement program (CIP) is a budgeting plan, which lists five years
of needed capital improvements, their order of priority, and the means of financing.
The City of Scandia’s 2018-2022 CIP lists a wide variety of projects totaling more than $10
million. These projects are intended to meet the City’s goals. The CIP is reviewed and
updated annually by the City Council to ensure the proper priorities and funding.
Table X-C – 2018 – 2022 Capital Improvement Plan
Project/Program 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Funding
Community Facilities $139,300 $127,000 $41,000 $75,000 $30,000 Capital
Improvement Fund
Equipment (Vehicles
and Operating) $43,500 $118,000 $267,000 $25,500 $240,000 Equipment
Replacement Fund
Parks and Trails $15,000 $- $20,000 $- $45,000 Park Improvement
Fund
Streets $6,425,650 $- $620,000 $450,000 $320,000 Local Road
Improvement Fund
201 Sewer System $- $62,000 $- $36,000 $1,160,000 User Fees
Uptown Sewer
System $3,000 $- $- $- $23,200 User Fees
TOTAL $6,626,450 $307,000 $948,000 $586,500 $1,818,200
3. Action Plan
To ensure the goals of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update are met in a timely fashion,
the Action Plan outlines the overarching community goals for Scandia and identifies
implementation tools to help the city obtain its goals. Also detailed is a proposed timeline
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for tool and program implementation. The timing of activities reflects community priorities
identified through public participation and review of the comprehensive plan, compliance
needs from the Metropolitan Council, and capacity needed to ensure successful
implementation. This timeline also incorporates programs and policies from the Housing
Implementation Plan outlined in Chapter III. This timeline is subject to change due to
unexpected natural and sociocultural events, shifting community needs, and political
priorities at the County, State, and Federal levels.
Amending the Plan
To keep the Comprehensive Plan current, it will be necessary to make amendments from
time to time. However, as the foundational document guiding development, most
amendments should occur through a comprehensive effort to address changes to the
community overtime. The Action Plan, described below, should be amended more
frequently.
Action Plan Worksheets
Implementing the vision and goals of the Comprehensive Plan requires an action plan,
and the coordination and investments of many stakeholders. The Action Plan worksheets
present a concise summary of the goals along with specific action steps, organized by
chapter. The table includes:
• Schedule: The schedule indicates when the action item might begin and is
advisory in nature.
• Lead: This represents the leader for the action item. The Lead will likely be a
City staff person, but include coordination with other City departments, public,
private, or non-profit entities.
• Status: This section provides an update on the status of each action item.
• Comments: This column is intended to allow further explanation of the action
item.
All action plan worksheets are included in Appendix G.
Appendix A: Community Survey Results
Appendix B: Focus Group Notes
Appendix C: Comprehensive Trails Master Plan
Report
Appendix D: Big Marine Park Reserve Official
Map
Appendix E: Access Guidelines
Appendix F: City Ordinance 189 – Governance
of Community Sewage Treatment System
Appendix G: Action Plan Worksheets
Appendix H: Full Surface Water Management
Plan
Appendix I: Adjacent and Affected Jurisdiction
Comments and Responses
Appendix J: Reports and Resolutions
Appendix K: NPDES Permits
Prepared by
City of Scandia
2040 Comprehensive Plan – Volume 1
Approved by Metropolitan Council October 9, 2019
Approved by City of Scandia October 15, 2019, Amended April 16, 2024
The following pages
include only the
pages that are
proposed to be
amended with this
amendment.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
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Table II-H identifies the number of existing housing units in each land use category.
Table II-H – Existing Net Residential Density (in Planned Land Use Categories)
Planned Land Use
Category
Single
Family
Number
of Units
Multi-
Family
Number
of Units
Acres
Gross
Residential
Acres Development
Constraints
(wetlands, parks,
ROW, etc.)
Net
Residential
Acres
Net Density
Units/Acre
A B C D E=C-D (A+B)/E
Agricultural Core 229 0 6,953 731 6,221 0.04
General Rural 881 30 9,679 1,232 8,447 0.11
Rural Mixed Use 110 0 419 150 269 0.41
St. Croix River District 60 0 681 114 567 0.11
Village Neighborhood 133 0 1,480 150 1,330 0.10
Village Mixed Use 65 0 287 18 269 0.24
Recreation Area
Protected 10 0 2,132 1,566 567 0.02
Total 1,488 30 21,632 3,962 17,671 0.09
Source: Washington County Parcel Data
In October of 2022, Scandia adopted a new Unified Development Code to replace the existing
zoning and subdivision ordinances. With this change, districts have been renamed and
modified. Scandia’s Unified Development Code, which includes both zoning and subdivision
standards, zoning code specifies maximum density for various residential development. Based
on these requirements, Table II-I shows the number of housing units per acre that can be
developed under current zoning regulations. These densities are anticipated to remain the same
in corresponding future land uses. Most large lot residential zoning districts require lots to be a
minimum of two acres, and all zoning districts have a maximum lot coverage of 25%. Bonus
densities in the Village Neighborhood District allow up to one dwelling unit per acre. This is
done to make efficient use of existing resources in Village Neighborhood and to guide
residential development to these areas to help preserve agricultural lands and open spaces from
development.
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Table II-I – Current Residential Allowed Density Ranges
Land Use Category Units/Acres
(Ordinance Standards)
St. Croix River District 4/40
Agricultural Preserve 1/40
Agriculture Core District 4/40
General Rural District Rural Residential General
and Rural Residential Neighborhood 4/40
Village Neighborhood District 4/40 1/2.5
Village Mixed Use A District Village – Historic
Center 5/1 ½.5
Village Mixed Use B District Village Center 5/1 1/2.5
When density is regulated by a ratio that references 40 acres, those 40 acres shall be the area
defined by the Public Land Survey as Quarter-Quarter Sections. Until sewer improvements are
made, zoning in the Rural Mixed Use area will remain General Rural Rural Residential
General.
The zoning code for the City of Scandia provides a maximum lot coverage for commercial and
industrial development. The Metropolitan Council has provided estimates for the number of
employees per square feet in various employment types; rates range from 556 square feet per
job at the low end (medical clinics) to 2,500 square feet per job at the high end (hotels). Using
the city’s lot coverage allowance as guidance, an estimate of jobs/square foot can be estimated
to project future employment based on future land use designations and planned development.
The Village Mixed Use A District Village – Historic Center District allows a maximum lot
coverage of 80 percent. The Village Center District allows a maximum lot coverage of 35
percent. The Rural Commercial District, Village Mixed Use B District and Industrial Park
District all both allow a maximum lot coverage of 65 percent.
Future Land Use
The 2040 Land Use Map (Figure II-H) shows the desired land use for all property in Scandia.
Table II-J summarizes the planned land uses by category shown on the map. The planned future
land uses shown on this map reflect previous community planning efforts as well as desired
updates identified as part of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update process.
Table II-J – Planned Land Use
Land Use Gross Acres Percent of Total Area
Agricultural Core 6,953 27%
General Rural 9,679 38%
Mining 443 1.7%
Rural Commercial 75 0.3%
Rural Mixed Use 419 1.6%
St. Croix River District 681 2.7%
Village Neighborhood 1,480 5.8%
Village Mixed Use 287 1.1%
Recreation Area Protected 2,132 8.4%
Open Water 3,252 12.8%
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Railway 73 0.3%
Total 25,475 100%
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Figure II-H – Planned Land Use
UPDATED MAP
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
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The following land use descriptions will be used for planning purposes and correspond to the
planned land use designations on the Planned Land Use Map.
a) Agricultural Core
The Agricultural Core district is established to protect and preserve land for long-term
agricultural production. Over time, the nature of agricultural production in Scandia will
most likely change from traditional dairy farms to specialty agriculture and agriculture
production for local/metropolitan markets. Residential development compatible with
agriculture uses (4 per 40 density) and parks will be a secondary land use in this
district. This designation corresponds with the Agricultural Core Area zoning district in
the current zoning ordinance. The City’s zoning and subdivision ordinance should
allow density bonuses up to 75% for single-family developments if providing
community value through agricultural land protection, life-cycle housing, natural
resource protection or other amenities.
b) General Rural
The General Rural area land use category is a residential area of mixed lot sizes. It
recognizes areas of Scandia that have been developed in the past at densities of ten acre
or less and areas that have larger parcels still used for agriculture. The area includes 10-
acre parcels, but also a number of existing smaller parcels and some parcels enrolled in
the Agricultural Preserves Program. Single-family residential dwellings are the primary
land use for the General Rural area at densities of 4 units per 40 acres in the same
Quarter-Quarter Section. Secondary land uses include agricultural production,
including small-scale production, parks and recreation, and public and private
institutions. Recreational commercial uses are allowed as a conditional use. This
designation corresponds with the General Rural Rural Residential General and Rural
Residential Neighborhood District in the current zoning ordinance. The City’s zoning
and subdivision ordinance should allow density bonuses up to 75% for single-family
developments if providing community value through agricultural land protection, life-
cycle housing, natural resource protection or other amenities.
c) Village Mixed Use
This land use category recognizes the significant contribution of the existing village
center to the overall character of the community. New commercial, retail, and
residential activity will be encouraged in order to develop and redevelop areas in the
village center while maintaining the historic nature of the village center. Primary land
uses in the Village Mixed Use area include commercial, office, retail, public and
private institutions, civic buildings, light industrial, and parks and recreation.
Residential uses, including single family homes, townhouses and multi-family
buildings, will be a secondary use. Multi-family buildings in the village center will
achieve the goal of diversifying the housing options for younger families, seniors, and
singles. Future lot sizes will be similar to the existing mix of lot sizes in the village
center. In order to support these relatively small lot sizes, community sewer systems
are anticipated. This designation corresponds with the Village Mixed Use AVillage -
Historic Core and and B and Village Center Districts, and the Planned Industrial
District in the current zoning ordinance. The zoning ordinance requires a minimum lot
size of 2.5 acres per unit. Higher densities up to one five units per acre may be
permitted through Conservation Design or Cluster Development, Conditional Use
Permits, or Planned Unit Developments on a case by case basis, depending on the land
use intensity and the ability of the site and/or system to manage wastewater. Per the
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City Development Code Chapter 2, Section 6, density bonuses up to 75% will be
considered for multi-unit developments if providing community value through
agricultural land protection, life-cycle housing or natural resource protection or other
amenities. The City’s zoning and subdivision ordinance should allow density bonuses
up to 75% for single-family developments if providing community value through
agricultural land protection, life-cycle housing, natural resource protection or other
amenities. This is consistent with existing multi-unit developments like the Oakhill
Cottages. While exact proportions of uses will be dependent on development, it is
anticipated the Village Mixed Use District will have roughly 60 percent
commercial/office/retail uses and 40 percent residential uses.
d) Village Neighborhood
The Village Neighborhood area is a planned extension of the existing Village Center,
located adjacent to and north and west of the Village Center. This land use category
designates a growth area surrounding the village and is intended to support single and
multi-family residential uses on lot sizes reflective of the existing village lot sizes. This
corresponds with the Village Neighborhood District in the current zoning ordinance.
The primary land use for the Village Neighborhood area will be small-lot, single-
family residential uses. Public and private institutions, civic buildings, and parks and
recreation uses will also be allowed. Townhomes and multi-family units will be
allowed as an incentive for providing community value through agricultural land
protection, life-cycle housing, or natural resource protection. New development in the
Village Neighborhood District will be at a density of 4 units per 40 acres in the same
Quarter-Quarter Section. A community sewer system may be necessary in order to
allow for lot sizes similar to existing village lots. By concentrating development in the
Village Neighborhood area, the City of Scandia hopes to protect agricultural and
natural resource areas from development pressure. The zoning ordinance requires a
minimum lot size of 2.5 acres per unit. Higher densities up to one unit per 1.5 acre may
be permitted through Cluster Development or Conservation Design practices,
Conditional Use Permits, or Planned Unit Developments on a case by case basis,
depending on the land use intensity and the ability of the site and/or system to manage
wastewater. Per the City Development Code Chapter 2, Section 6, density bonuses up
to 75% will be considered for multi-unit developments if providing community value
through agricultural land protection, life-cycle housing or natural resource protection or
other amenities. The City’s zoning and subdivision ordinance should allow density
bonuses up to 75% for single-family developments if providing community value
through agricultural land protection, life-cycle housing, natural resource protection or
other amenities. This is consistent with existing multi-unit developments like the
Oakhill Cottages.
St. Croix River District
The St. Croix River District recognizes the unique historical and natural resource
aspects of the floodplain and bluffs of the shoreland area of the St. Croix River. This
area includes historic crossroad and seasonal home communities, parkland, river
access, and areas protected under scenic easements held by the National Park Service.
The mapped area east of State Highway 95 corresponds to land areas protected under
federal wild and scenic river designation. The future of this area includes limited
residential development that protects the natural and scenic shoreland areas, and public
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and private protected lands. This corresponds with the Lower St. Croix River Corridor
Overlay District in the current zoning ordinance.
New development in the St. Croix River District will be at a density of 4 units per 40
acres. Smaller lots may be permitted through the use of open space conservation
subdivisions but may not exceed maximum densities. Viewsheds should be considered
and protected in the siting of structures and driveways.
e) Rural Commercial
The Rural Commercial future land use area is intended to support commercial
development in places of historic commercial activity. These areas are the only
commercial areas anticipated outside of the Village Center and are intended to
complement Village Center commercial uses. Rural Commercial areas are designated at
the historic commercial nodes of the Big Marine Store, Copas/Abrahamson Nurseries,
and the intersection of Highways 95 and 97. Commercial uses reflecting the historic
nature of the community and compatible with the surrounding rural character will be
allowed on lot sizes of at least 2 acres. Because this future land use area builds upon
historic character, commercial building design standards shall reflect the historic nature
of the community. This corresponds with the Rural Commercial District in the current
zoning ordinance.
f) Rural Mixed Use
The Rural Mixed Use area is located to the west of Big Marine Lake. This is a new
land use category and is intended to allow for single-family residential development
connected to the Big Marine Store rural commercial area. Single family residential
would be at a maximum density of 4 units per 40 acres. Some civic buildings, small
commercial, and parks and recreation uses will also be allowed. It is anticipated the
Rural Mixed Use District will have roughly 85 percent residential uses and 15 percent
commercial or civic uses.
Improvements to the existing community system are necessary to permit higher density
in this area. Until that occurs, new development will be limited in this area. Section 5
of the The City of Scandia’s Unified Development Code Subdivision Ordinance
includes lack of adequate sewage treatment systems as a condition of premature
development within the City, which shall not be approved by City Council. Until the
sewer is improved, the current General Rural Rural Residential General zoning district
will remain in place, preserving land at residential densities of 4 units/40 acres to be
consistent with the Diversified Rural community designation. Upgrades and
improvements to the community system will occur alongside new development in the
area. The presence of wetlands and the additional regulations of the shoreland overlay
district, which covers many parcels in this area of the City, will likely be constraining
factors for both new development and sewer improvements.
However, it is the intention of the City of Scandia to encourage development and
higher densities in this area once improvements to the community sewer are made. To
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that end, the City will work to amend the zoning ordinance and comprehensive plan as
needed to implement higher densities and land use once the infrastructure is sufficient.
g) St. Croix River District
The St. Croix River District recognizes the unique historical and natural resource
aspects of the floodplain and bluffs of the shoreland area of the St. Croix River. This
area includes historic crossroad and seasonal home communities, parkland, river
access, and areas protected under scenic easements held by the National Park Service.
The mapped area east of State Highway 95 corresponds to land areas protected under
federal wild and scenic river designation. The future of this area includes limited
residential development that protects the natural and scenic shoreland areas, and public
and private protected lands. This corresponds with the Lower St. Croix River Corridor
Overlay District in the current zoning ordinance.
New development in the St. Croix River District will be at a density of 4 units per 40
acres. Smaller lots may be permitted through the use of open space conservation
subdivisions but may not exceed maximum densities. Viewsheds should be considered
and protected in the siting of structures and driveways.
h) Recreation Area Protected
The Recreation Area Protected land use category includes publicly owned lands
permanently protected from development. This designation recognizes that these areas
will continue to be used for recreation or open space only and not developed. If
recreation facilities are developed within these areas, priority natural resource areas
shall be protected. In addition, priority natural resources should be restored and
enhanced wherever possible within protected recreation areas. This designation
corresponds with the Agricultural Preserves, Agricultural Core Area, and General
Rural Rural Residential General Districts in the zoning ordinance.
i) Mining
The Mining area includes areas in the City of Scandia with active, permitted mining
operations. Mining activity is anticipated to continue in these areas in the future.
Mining uses must comply with local and state extractive use regulations and
reclamation shall restore the topography and natural resources of the site to a level such
that the land is suitable for the planned future land uses such as agriculture or
residential. This corresponds with the Aggregate Mining Overlay District in the current
zoning ordinance.
The following overlay district will also guide land uses in specific, sensitive areas:
• Agriculture Preserves Overlay District (AP)
The Agricultural Preserves Overlay plans for the continuation of the Agricultural Preserves
Program is Scandia. This overlay is intended to encourage the continuation of agriculture
through ensuring the availability of the Program to qualifying agricultural landowners.
The Agricultural Preserves Overlay lies over the primary agricultural future land use area,
the Agricultural Core Area. The Agricultural Preserves Overlay allows individual property
owners within Scandia to continue to participate in the Agricultural Preserves Program.
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This voluntary program for landowners within the seven-county metropolitan area allows
individuals to place their properties under a restrictive covenant committing their property
to agricultural use in exchange for certain benefits. These benefits include a special tax rate
calculated based on agricultural value rather than market value, a property tax credit,
protection of normal farm practices, and protection against special assessments for public
improvement projects.
While the underlying zoning district (Agricultural Core Area) allows four dwellings per 40
acres, parcels enrolled in the Agricultural Preserves Program and located within the
Agricultural Preserves Overlay shall be allowed only 1 unit per 40 acres per program
requirements.
Additional details on the corresponding zoning districts are included on Table X-A in the
Implementation chapter.
1. Density Calculations
Based on the above future land use plan and land use calculations, residential and
commercial land use requirements have been calculated to help Scandia plan for and meet
Metropolitan Council projections for population, households, and employment. Residential
calculations are detailed in Table II-M and commercial calculations are detailed in
Table II-N.
Residential
To meet forecasted 2040 population and household projections, the City of Scandia will
need to add 582 housing units by 2040. These calculations show the number of acres
needed to accommodate all needed housing units in each zoning district. Residential
development is anticipated to take place in all residential zoning districts in an orderly
manner consistent with the staging plan, discussed below. These calculations do not include
any density bonuses which may be allowed per the Unified Development Code through
special approvals such as Planned Unit Developments. Actual acreage needed to
accommodate future households and their locations will be influenced by market forces.
Table II-M – Residential Density Increase Calculations
Future Land Use Zoning
Districts Permitting
Residential Use
Density
(Units/Acre)
Desired
Distribution
Number of
Households
Acres
Needed
Current (2015)
Developable Acres
Agricultural Core 4/40 5% 30 300 5,688
General Rural 4/40 21% 122 1,220 6,121
St. Croix River Corridor 4/40 5% 29 290 296
Rural Mixed Use 4/40 5% 7 73 269
Village Neighborhood 1/2.5 4/40 60.4 7.8% 352 44 440 880 1,080 1/1.5 55% 308 462
Village Mixed Use 1/2.5 5/1 3.4% 20 50 4 125
Total 100% 560 2,813
2,789
13,889
Commercial
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To meet forecasted 2040 employment projections, the City of Scandia will need to add 190
jobs by 2040. These calculations show the number of acres needed to accommodate all
needed new jobs in each zoning district. Based on guided land use and available
developable acres, Scandia has sufficient available vacant land to meet employment
projections based on development in the Village Mixed Use (commercial/industrial) Rural
Commercial, and Rural Mixed Use (both commercial) districts. Actual acreage needed to
accommodate jobs will greatly depend on the types of businesses starting or expanding in
Scandia. These calculations also do not include remote telecommuting, home occupations,
or permitted employment opportunities in agricultural zoning districts, all of which will
influence the number of acres needed to accommodate employment in Scandia.
Table II-N – Commercial/Industrial Increased Density Calculations
Zoning
Districts
Density Range
(Jobs/Acre) Desired
Distribution
Number
of Jobs
Minimum
Acres
Maximum
Acres
Current (2015)
Developable
Acres Minimum Maximum
Village
Mixed Use 14 62.4 60% 114 1.8 8.1 125
Rural
Commercial 11.4 50.7 30% 57 1.1 5 46
Rural
Mixed Use 11.4 50.7 10% 19 0.4 1.7 269
Total - - 100% 190 3.3 14.8 440
2. Staged Development or Redevelopment
The goal of a Staging Plan is to manage growth and guide the orderly and cost-effective
provision of infrastructure at a rate that is consistent with forecasted growth, at the same
time responding appropriately to market conditions. Table II-O identifies the staging of
future growth in Scandia. This table indicates the anticipated timing and sequence of
growth. It identifies the developable acres, number of housing units and jobs that may be
developed in each 10-year planning period. The table is not intended to limit or to compel
growth in any specific area within the planning period. Rather, it is an estimation of where
growth may logically occur.
A staging plan cannot force development to occur but can be used as a tool to guide
development appropriately. In many cases, cities choose to stage and time growth in an
orderly and contiguous manner; however, there is nothing about adopting a staged growth
plan that forces any private property owner to sell or develop their land before they wish to
do so. The City of Scandia will make development decisions based on existing and
development of new infrastructure, land capacity and market conditions.
Table II-O – Staging of Future Land Use Units/Jobs/Acres
Outside Urban
Service Area
Average Density
Range Housing
Existing
Developable
(2015)
2020 2030 2040
Residential Units/Acre Acres Units Acres Units Acres Units Acres
Agricultural Core 0.1 5,688 10 100 10 100 10 100
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 32
General Rural 0.1 6,121 41 410 40 400 41 410
Rural Mixed Use 0.1 269 0 0 0 0 7 73
St. Croix River District 0.1 296 9 90 10 100 10 100
Village Mixed Use 0.4 125 5 13 7 18 8 20
Village Neighborhood 0.4 1,080 120 300 140 350 92 230
Average Density for New Development 560 units/2,789 814 = 0.20 units/acre
Non-Residential Estimated
Employment/Acre
Developable
Acres Jobs Acres Jobs Acres Jobs Acres
Village Mixed Use 14 62.4 125 53 3.8 50 3.6 11 0.8
Rural Commercial 11.4 50.7 46 27 2.4 20 1.8 10 0.9
Rural Mixed Use 11.4 50.7 269 0 0 0 0 19 1.67
Average Density for New Development 190 jobs/14.8 acres = 12.8 jobs/acre
One of the main desires of this comprehensive plan is to preserve and augment the
community character and history in Scandia. To support the Village Center, the social and
economic heart of the city, infill development will be encouraged in vacant or underutilized
lots. This will help encourage a vibrant Village Center and surrounding residential
neighborhoods while utilizing existing infrastructure, guiding development and
redevelopment in an orderly manner. The expansion of Village Neighborhoods and Village
Mixed Use the Village zoning districts will occur as market conditions allow.
The implementation of the Rural Mixed Use district west of Big Marine Lake will be
contingent upon infrastructure repairs or upgrades. Most homes in this area are currently
served by community sewer, which is aging and to the point of needing repairs. The City of
Scandia is currently assessing options to best provide wastewater services to this portion of
the city, discussed more in Chapter VI. Development in this area of the city should be
aligned with future wastewater plans and investments.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Housing
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 53
Projected Housing Needs
The City of Scandia is anticipated to see modest population and household growth by 2040.
Exact housing needs and demand for new housing development will be influenced by the actual
population growth and average household size. The amount of land needed to accommodate
new housing units will be influenced by several factors, including the desire for accessory
dwelling units and the location of new units. Most of the city’s housing growth is anticipated to
take place in the Village Neighborhood designation, which permits higher density residential
development than General Rural or Agricultural. Accessory dwelling units on existing lots can
also accommodate the city’s projected population growth without greatly increasing the
demand for developable land.
Figure VI-G – Household Projections
Appendix A details the housing needs and gaps identified by respondents to the 2017
Community Survey. Residential development was noted as one of the top priorities for the city
for the next 20 years. Most survey respondents expressed a desire for mid-range, single-family
homes on larger lots. When asked to identify gaps, the most common response was about the
lack of senior or assisted living (45% of survey responses).
As noted in Appendix B, focus group participants also expressed a desire for housing north of
Highway 97, north/west of the current village center and around Big Marine Lake. There was
interest in senior housing options, which ranged from care facilities to varying house sizes
(smaller single family, townhomes) and lot configurations, such as accessory dwelling units.
To accommodate projected housing needs, the Future Land Use plan expands the Village
Neighborhood designation north and west, a reflection of both public comments and orderly,
contiguous residential expansion. This designation accommodates smaller homes and smaller
lot sizes, blending into the historical character of the Village Center. The zoning ordinance also
includes density bonuses for the development of housing, where the housing units are
designated for residents age 55 or older or are affordable to households with incomes less than
120% of AMI. Large lot, single family homes are the primary housing type permitted in
General Rural Rural Residential General, Agricultural Core, and the St. Croix River zoning
districts to preserve the city’s rural character.
408
851
1,060
1,294
1,498 1,518 1,700
1,910 2,100
1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 2030 2040
Household Projections in Scandia
Number of Households
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 121
X. IMPLEMENTATION
Implementation Plan
The Comprehensive plan creates a vision for the City of Scandia and guides land use and
infrastructure improvements so that the City can meet the needs of the community in the future.
The vision of the plan can only be realized if the plan is used. Tools to implement the plan will
vary in that some will be reactive, such as zoning and subdivision ordinances that guide private
developments, and others will be proactive, such as the City’s Capital Improvement Program
(CIP) for undertaking public improvement projects.
1. Official Controls
To achieve the goals and objectives of this Comprehensive Plan, the City of Scandia has
adopted a Development Code to establish regulations for zoning, subdivision of land, and
shoreland and floodplain areas. The Development Code was originally adopted in
November of 2010, with ongoing amendments as needed. Scandia’s Development Code
incorporates all land development regulations into a single code.
Zoning
City zoning codes regulate land use to promote the health, safety, order, convenience, and
general welfare of all citizens. They regulate location, size, use and height of buildings, the
arrangement of buildings on lots, and the density of population within the City. The City’s
zoning districts effectively guide development in Scandia.
The City of Scandia is divided into eight nine zoning districts, detailed below and shown in
Figure X-A. There are permitted and accessory uses in most districts, as well as the other
allowed uses under conditional use permit, interim use permits, or administrative permits.
Table X-A provides a high-level summary of each zoning district, and Table X-B provides
a summary of each overlay district.
To ensure compliance with this 2040 Comprehensive Plan, the following zoning ordinance
changes will need to be implemented:
• Update zoning map based on future land use plan
• Reconcile inconsistencies between current zoning ordinance and intended future
land uses
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 122
Figure X-A – Current Zoning Map
UPDATED MAP
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 123
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Zo
n
i
n
g
C
l
a
s
s
i
f
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
s
Agricultural
Preserves
District (AP)
General Description
This district plans for the continuation of the Agricultural Preserves Program in Scandia.
Regulations fulfill standards to make land eligible for the Metropolitan Agricultural Preserves
according to Minnesota Statute 473H, as amended, to remain in long-term agricultural production.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Agricultural production
• Agricultural businesses and services
• Single family residential
• Essential Services
• Feedlots and livestock operations
• Parks and recreation facilities
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
General farming services
Density /Intensity 1 unit per 40 acres. Maximum lot coverage is 25%.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Continued viability of agricultural uses considered in siting of structures and drives
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) I. Character Area:
Agricultural Districts (A-P and AG-C)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 124
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Agricultural
Core Area
(AG-C)
General Description The AG-C District is established to protect and preserve land for long-term agricultural production.
Residential development compatible with agriculture is permitted.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Agricultural production
• Agricultural businesses and services
• Single family residential
• Essential Services
• Feedlots and livestock operations
• Parks and recreation facilities
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
• General farming services
Density/Intensity
4 buildable lots per 40 acres. Lots shall be 2 to 5 acres in size or 20 acres or greater. Maximum lot
coverage is 25%.
An open space conservation subdivision providing the minimum required open space shall receive a
25% density bonus. The number of additional bonus lots allowed is directly tied to the quantity and
quality of preservation and protection afforded natural landscapes, agricultural land, open space, and
cultural features. The maximum bonus permitted is 75%.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Continued viability of agricultural uses considered in siting of structures and drives
• Open space conservation subdivisions are encouraged
• Bonus density incentives may be offered in open space conservation subdivisions only if
agricultural protection is the focal point of the subdivision design
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) I. Character Area: Agricultural
Districts (A-P and AG-C)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 125
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
General Rural
Rural
Residential
General
District (RR-
G)
General Description
Lands zoned Rural Residential General(RR-G)are established to provide for principal residential use
with estate or large-lot development patterns. The RR-G District includes lot or parcel
configurations that are generally unplatted, including mostly non-riparian land. The RR-G District
areas are guided General Rural in the Comprehensive Plan.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Agricultural production
• Agricultural businesses and services
• Single family residential
• Essential Services
• Feedlots and livestock operations
• Parks and recreation facilities
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
• General farming services
Density/Intensity
4 buildable lots per 40 acres; minimum lot size of 2 acres. Maximum lot coverage is 25%.
An open space conservation subdivision providing the minimum required open space shall receive a
25% density bonus. The number of additional bonus lots allowed is directly tied to the quantity and
quality of preservation and protection afforded natural landscapes, agricultural land, open space, and
cultural features. The maximum bonus permitted is 75%.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Continued viability of agricultural uses considered in siting of structures and drives
• Open space conservation subdivisions are encouraged for subdivisions
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) II. Character Area: Rural
Residential Districts (RR-G and RR-N)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 126
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Rural
Residential
Neighborhood
District (RR-
N)
General Description
Lands zoned RR-N are the parcels adjoining, abutting, or a portion of which are within 1,000 feet of
a lake with a public waters designation that were historically platted or divided into smaller lots for
seasonal use. The use of these lots has generally transitioned to permanent year-round use with
predominantly principal residential uses. Most parcels and lots in the RR-N District are at least 50%
contained within the Shoreland Management Overlay (SM-O) District. In addition to the standards
identified in this Section, the lots or parcels are subject to the regulations contained within Chapters
155 of the City Code and the Washington County St. Croix River District standards which are
incorporated by reference herein. Land zoned RR-N are guided Agricultural Core and General Rural
in the Comprehensive Plan.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Agricultural production
• Single family residential
• Essential Services
• Parks and recreation facilities
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
Density/Intensity 4 buildable lots per 40 acres; minimum lot size of 2 acres. Maximum lot coverage is 25%.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Continued viability of agricultural uses considered in siting of structures and drives
• Open space conservation subdivisions are encouraged for subdivisions
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) II. Character Area: Rural
Residential Districts (RR-G and RR-N)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 127
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Village Mixed
Use A Village
– Historic
Core District
(VMU A V-
HC)
General Description
The VMU A V-HC District is established to sustain the historic village center by preserving and
protecting the long-term viability of historic properties and structures, and by allowing a mixture of
mutually supportive land uses. The mixture of commercial, office, institutional, recreational, and
residential land uses are made compatible through the enforcement of design guidelines.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Commercial, office, retail
• Public and private institutions
• Civic buildings
• Light industrial
• Parks and recreation
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory Structures
• Recreation facilities and equipment
Density /Intensity 2,500 square feet minimum lot size 5 dwelling units per acre. No new subdivisions of land
permitted. Maximum lot coverage of 80%. Maximum building height is 45 feet.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• In the core of the Village, buildings shall be of a size and have setbacks that reflect the
“downtown” character
• Scandia Architectural Design Guidelines and Unified Development Code Character Area
Standards should be used as an example to protect the historic elements and further development
should match these styles
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) III. Character Area: Village
Districts (V-N, V-C and V-HC)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 128
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Village Mixed
Use B Center
District (VMU
B V-C)
General Description
The VMU B V-C District is established to provide a growth area around the Village Center. The
District provides for a mixture of commercial, office, institutional, recreational, and residential land
uses. The District provides an area for larger scale businesses, for businesses that benefit from
visibility from MN Hwy 97, and for business and mixed-use development that utilize on-site
wastewater treatment systems.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Department, discount, and warehouse stores
• Garden supply stores
• Laundromats
• Sports and fitness clubs, less than 4,000 square feet in area
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory Structures
• Recreation facilities and equipment
Density /Intensity 5 dwelling units per acre. 2.5 acres minimum lot size, 1 acre minimum buildable area. Maximum lot
coverage 65%. Maximum building height 45 feet
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) III. Character Area: Village Districts
(V-N, V-C and V-HC)
Redline - Page
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 129
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Village
Neighborhood
District (V-N)
General Description The V-N District is established to designate growth areas surrounding the village center, to support
primarily single-family residential uses on lot sizes reflective of the existing village lot sizes.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Single family residential
• Public parks and recreation
• Agriculture
• Essential Services
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
Recreation facilities and equipment
Density/Intensity
Single family: 4 dwelling unit per 40 acres in the same Quarter-Quarter Section.1 dwelling unit per
2.5 acres. 1 dwelling unit per 1.5 acres (where applicable).
Multifamily (with conditional use permit): 1 dwelling unit per 1.5 acres. Bonus densities up to 1
dwelling unit per acre may be earned as an incentive for providing life-cycle housing (age 55+).
utilized depending on the land use intensity and the ability of the site and/or system to manage
wastewater.
Lots sizes in the Goose Lake shoreland area shall remain consistent with those allowed under the
current shoreland ordinance.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Design standards shall ensure that new development is visually compatible with existing village
development patterns.
• Street and sidewalk standards ensure new development is well-connected to the Village Center
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) III. Character Area: Village
Districts (V-N, V-C and V-HC)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 130
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Industrial
Park District
(I-P)
General Description
The IP District is established to allow for light industrial businesses. IP District areas are designated
Village Mixed Use in the Comprehensive Plan. Industrial park uses include a variety of light
manufacturing, fabrication, assembly, warehouse, wholesaling or storage businesses that are non-
threatening to the environment. The IP District does not abut major roadways, and property access is
via a local street which does not also serve residential districts.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Permitted uses:
• Building Supplies
• Contractor Operations
• Light Manufacturing and Assembly
• Essential services
• Government Buildings
• Recreational Uses
Secondary uses:
• Accessory Structures
• Off-Street Parking
• Temporary Produce Stands
Density /Intensity 2.05 acres minimum lot size, 1 acre minimum buildable area. Maximum lot coverage 65%.
Maximum building height 45 feet
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) IV. Character Area: Business Districts
(R-C and I-P)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 131
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Rural
Commercial
District (R-C)
General Description
Lands zoned Rural Commercial are intended to support commercial development of rural areas in
the community that have historically been used for some type of business use. R-C zoned land is
guided Rural Commercial in the Comprehensive Plan.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Permitted uses:
• Agriculture
• Banks, Credit Unions, and other financial institutions
• Bed and Breakfast Inns
• Offices
• Motor Vehicle Service Stations
• Restaurants
Secondary uses:
• Accessory Structures
• Off-Street Parking
Density /Intensity 2.0 acres minimum lot size, 1 acre minimum buildable area. Maximum lot coverage 65%. Maximum
building height 45 feet
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) IV. Character Area: Business Districts
(R-C and I-P)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 132
Table X-B – Overlay Districts
Ov
e
r
l
a
y
D
i
s
t
r
i
c
t
s
Aggregate
Mining
Overlay
District
General Description
The Aggregate Mining Overlay District provides areas where mineral deposits, primarily gravel,
may be made available for general use under the conditions and regulations of Chapter 4 of the
Scandia Development Code, Mining and Related Activities Regulations. The Aggregate Mining
Overlay District areas are designated Mining Area in the Comprehensive Plan.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Permitted uses:
• Mining
• Essential services
Secondary uses:
• Accessory Structures
Density /Intensity 1 parcel with at least 40 contiguous acres in size
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Mining uses must comply with local and state extractive use regulations. Reclamation plan must
restore the natural resource of the site to a level such that the land is suitable for he planned future
land uses such as agriculture or residential.
Shoreland
Ordinance
General Description The Shoreland Ordinance was adopted to protect the public resource that is shoreland around lakes,
ponds, and rivers.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Single family residential
• Parks and historic sites
• Agriculture
Density /Intensity Density limitations are dependent on the underlying zoning. Some exceptions to this will apply and
requirements for those can be found in Chapter Five of the Development Code.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 133
Table X-B – Overlay Districts
Saint Croix
River
Overlay
District
General Description
The city adopts by reference the Washington County Lower St. Croix River Bluffland and
Shoreland Management Ordinance, as amended, until such time that the City Council adopts a City
of Scandia Lower St. Croix River corridor ordinance for this zone. Until then, properties within the
Lower St. Croix River Corridor Overlay District are regulated according to the Washington County
Lower St. Croix River Bluffland and Shoreland Management Ordinance with the exception that lots
shall meet the density and lot requirements of the Agriculture District – Core (AG C).
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Conservancy
• Agriculture
• Single Family Residential
Secondary uses:
• Accessory uses which are incidental to the permitted primary uses of the property
Density /Intensity Density limitations are dependent on the underlying zoning.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Both aesthetic elements and uses have regulations within the code adopted by Washington County.
Floodplain
Overlay
District
General Description Promote the public health, safety, and general welfare and to minimize accidental losses.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• General open spaces used for uses such as boat launching ramps, swimming areas, parks,
wildlife and nature preserve, fish hatcheries and hunting and fishing areas.
• Residential units
Density /Intensity Density limitations are dependent on the underlying zoning.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Only uses that have a low flood damage potential will be allowed. The use will be allowed by the
underlying zoning district. The use shall not obstruct flows or increase flood elevation.
Prepared by
1 | P a g e
Date of Meeting: April 2, 2024
To: Chair Loeffler and Members of the Planning Commission
From: T.J. Hofer, Consultant City Planner
Re: Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Density and Zoning Discussion
The City has identified a conflict between the 2040 Comprehensive Plan and the Unified
Development Code (UDC) that sets inconsistent density standards in the Village Neighborhood
(V-N) Base Zoning District. Staff have prepared language to update the Comprehensive Plan
based on direction from the City Council to ensure that the adopted documents are consistent.
BACKGROUND
In June of 2023, the City identified an error in the 2040 Comprehensive Plan regarding density
because of an application that proposed development in a Village Neighborhood guided area.
Staff have reviewed densities within the Comprehensive Plan and have attached a draft copy of
the Comprehensive Plan to detail the proposed changes. The Council discussed the issue at their
June 20, 2023, meeting and gave directions to amend the Comprehensive Plan. At the same
meeting, the Council identified parcels on the Future Land Use Map that were incorrectly
guided.
In August of 2023, the Council reviewed draft changes to the Comprehensive Plan and gave
further direction to staff to make additional changes to the Comprehensive Plan that reflect the
adoption of the UDC and the names and standards for the zoning districts that were created when
the UDC was adopted in September of 2022.
In January of 2024, the Council reviewed another draft of the Comprehensive Plan Amendment
and authorized staff to proceed with the necessary review. Letters were sent out requesting
review from 19 communities and organizations that the Metropolitan Council has deemed to be
affected by the comprehensive plan. These entities include:
• Forest Lake
• Hugo
• Marine on St. Croix
• May Township
• Washington County
• Chisago City
• Chisago Lake Township
• Franconia Township
• Chisago County
• ISD 831 Forest Lake
• ISD 834 Stillwater
• ISD 2144 Chisago Lakes
2 | P a g e
• Carnelian Marine St. Croix
Watershed District
• Comfort Lake Forest Lake
Watershed District
• Rice Creek Watershed District
• Washington County
• MnDOT
• MnDNR
• National Park Service
Seven responses were received from the City of Forest Lake, City of Hugo, City of Marine on St.
Croix, Chisago Lake Township, Carnelian-Marine-St. Croix Watershed District, and ISD 831
Forest Lake. The comments that were received are attached at the end of this staff report.
ANALYSIS OF STANDARDS
The proposed amendment to the 2040 Comprehensive Plan is attached to this staff report. The
proposed changes are related to density, resulting calculations from changes to densities, and the
referenced zoning ordinance (the zoning ordinance was replaced with the Unified Development
Code in October of 2022). Proposed changes can be found on the following pages: 19 – 22, 26 –
32, 53, 120, 123 – 131.
The proposed changes to density will lower the density within the Village Neighborhood from 1
dwelling unit (DU) per 2.5 acres to 4 DU per 40 acres as well as allow higher densities of 1 DU
per 1.5 acres depending on the land use intensity and the ability of the site and/or system to
manage wastewater.
Additional changes to the future land use descriptions were added to detail the use of planned
unit developments (PUD) and the bonus density that can be gained. Following this amendment,
the UDC will need to be amended to establish additional standards for PUDs and OS-PUDs.
Chapter X. Implementation includes Table X-A which provides a high-level summary of each
zoning district. This table has been updated to reflect the new zoning within the UDC. A
proposed Future Land Use Map is also included within the updates and attached to the staff
report that reflects the comments made at the June 20, 2023, City Council meeting by moving the
western edge of the Village Neighborhood district further to the east.
ANALYSIS
Staff Analysis
Staff believes that the proposed changes will address the concerns regarding density identified at
the June 20, 2023, August 15, 2023, and January 16, 2024, City Council meetings.
The comprehensive plan amendment will lead to multiple changes to the UDC to allow for a
higher standard of development and potentially increased densities through PUDs.
3 | P a g e
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends the Planning Commission:
Motion to recommend approval of the attached resolutions to approve a Comprehensive
Plan amendment related to density, resulting calculations from changes to densities, and
the referenced zoning ordinance with findings and conditions as described by staff within
the staff report.
Attachments
A. Draft Resolution 04-16-24-XX Adopting a Comprehensive Plan Amendment
B. Draft Resolution 04-16-24-XX Authorizing Submittal of a Comprehensive Plan
Amendment
C. Select Pages from Draft 2040 Comprehensive Plan Amendments
D. 2040 Comprehensive Plan Amendments (Link Only)
E. Draft Proposed Future Land Use Map
F. Future Land Use Map (Link Only)
1
CITY OF SCANDIA
WASHINGTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA
RESOLUTION NO. 04-16-24-XX
A RESOLUTION ADOPTING A COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT
REGARDING ESTABLISHED FUTURE LAND USES, ESTABLISHED DENSITY
STANDARDS, PRODUCED DENSITY CALCULATIONS, AND REFERENCED
ZONING STANDARDS
WHEREAS, on April 2, 2024, the Scandia Planning Commission held a public hearing
regarding a Comprehensive Plan Amendment regarding established future land uses, established
density standards, produced density calculations, and referenced zoning standards, attached hereto
as Exhibit A (comprehensive plan amendment) that revises and amends the Scandia 2040
Comprehensive Plan; and
WHEREAS, any change to the Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan requires approval of a
comprehensive plan amendment; and,
WHEREAS, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes section 473. 858, the proposed comprehensive
plan amendment was submitted to adjacent governmental units for review and comment on January
31, 2024, and the comment period ended on March 30, 2024, with seven responses; and
WHEREAS, the City conducted a public hearing on April 2, 2024, relative to the adoption
of the proposed comprehensive plan amendment; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has considered the proposed comprehensive plan
amendment and all public comments and thereafter recommended approval of the amendment to
this City Council; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has reviewed the proposed comprehensive plan amendment
and those recommendations, public comments, and comments from adjacent jurisdictions.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of Scandia, Minnesota, as
follows:
The Comprehensive Plan Amendment regarding established future land uses, established
density standards, produced density calculations, and referenced zoning standards attached
hereto is adopted, to take full legal effect as soon as practical under laws of the State of
Minnesota.
2
Adopted by the City Council of the City of Scandia this 16th day of April 2024.
____________________
Christine Maefsky, Mayor
ATTEST:
Kyle Morell, City Administrator
3
Exhibit A
1
CITY OF SCANDIA
WASHINGTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA
RESOLUTION NO. 04-16-24-XX
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING SUBMITTAL OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
UPDATE TO THE METROPOLITAN COUNCIL
WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes section 473.864 requires each local governmental unit to
review and, if necessary, amend its entire comprehensive plan and its fiscal devices and official
controls at least once every ten years to ensure its comprehensive plan conforms to metropolitan
system plans and ensure its fiscal devices and official controls do not conflict with the
comprehensive plan or permit activities that conflict with metropolitan system plans; and
WHEREAS, the City of Scandia has completed its decennial review and adopted the City
of Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan on December 18, 2018; and
WHEREAS, the City of Scandia has established future land uses, established density
standards, produced density calculations, and referenced zoning standards; and,
WHEREAS, the City of Scandia desires to change density standards to direct higher density
development towards the established village center within the City; and,
WEHEREAS, the City of Scandia adopted the Unified Development Code on September
20, 2022, to replace the previous zoning and subdivision codes; and,
WHEREAS, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes section 473. 858, the proposed Comprehensive
Plan Update was submitted to adjacent governmental units for review and comment on January 31,
2024, and the comment period ended on March 30, 2024, with seven responses; and
WHEREAS, the City conducted a public hearing on April 2, 2024, relative to the adoption
of the proposed Comprehensive Plan Update; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has considered the proposed Comprehensive Plan
Update and all public comments and thereafter submitted its recommendations to this City Council;
and
WHEREAS, the City Council has reviewed the proposed Comprehensive Plan Update and
those recommendations, public comments, and comments from adjacent jurisdictions; and
WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes section 473.858 requires a local governmental unit to
submit a proposed comprehensive plan update to the Metropolitan Council following
recommendation by the Planning Commission and after consideration but before final approval by
the governing body of the local governmental unit; and
WHEREAS, based on its review of the proposed Comprehensive Plan Update and Planning
Commission and staff recommendations, the City Council is ready to submit its proposed plan to the
Metropolitan Council for review pursuant to Minnesota Statutes section 473. 864.
2
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, the City Council for the City of Scandia hereby:
1. The Administrator is directed to distribute said Comprehensive Plan Update to the
Metropolitan Council pursuant to Minnesota Statutes section 473.864.
Adopted by the City Council of the City of Scandia this 16th day of April 2024.
____________________
Christine Maefsky, Mayor
ATTEST:
Kyle Morell, City Administrator
City of Scandia
2040 Comprehensive Plan – Volume 1
Approved by Metropolitan Council October 9, 2019
Approved by City of Scandia October 15, 2019
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 17
• Scandia has a large number of two-person households, which is likely attributed to the large
number of older residents. Only 1 in 5 homes in Scandia has children, which will impact
schools, services, and future population growth of the city.
• Scandia’s population remains fairly homogenous, though the number of residents identifying
as Hispanic/Latino has increased.
• Residents are becoming increasingly educated, which may influence the desired types of
employment and median household incomes.
Existing Land Use
A large portion of land in the City of Scandia is currently undeveloped, about 41% of total
acreage in the city. The most prominent land use in the city is agriculture, making up about a
quarter of land in Scandia. Open water makes up 13% of land in Scandia, and residential uses
make up about 10% of the city’s total land. Figure II G shows the existing land uses in the City.
Table II-G further details current land use in Scandia.
Table II-G – Existing Land Use
Land Use Gross Acres Percent of Total
Agricultural 6,425.5 25%
Extractive1 197 1%
Farmstead 218.7 1%
Golf Course 17 0.07%
Industrial and Utility 11 0.04%
Institutional 46.6 0.2%
Mixed Use Residential 13 0.05%
Multifamily 3 0.01%
Open Water 3,252 12.8%
Park, Recreational, or Preserve 2,147 8%
Railway 73 0.3%
Retail and Other Commercial 34.8 0.1%
Seasonal/Vacation 70.7 0.3%
Single Family Attached 9.5 0.04%
Single Family Detached 2,610 10.3%
Undeveloped 10,347 41%
Total 25,475 100%
Source: Metropolitan Council Data, 2016
1 Extractive includes areas that identified on an aerial photo as currently mined or mined in the past.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
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Figure II-G – Existing Land Use
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 19
Table II-H identifies the number of existing housing units in each land use category.
Table II-H – Existing Net Residential Density (in Planned Land Use Categories)
Planned Land Use
Category
Single
Family
Number
of Units
Multi-
Family
Number
of Units
Acres
Gross
Residential
Acres Development
Constraints
(wetlands, parks,
ROW, etc.)
Net
Residential
Acres
Net Density
Units/Acre
A B C D E=C-D (A+B)/E
Agricultural Core 229 0 6,953 731 6,221 0.04
General Rural 881 30 9,679 1,232 8,447 0.11
Rural Mixed Use 110 0 419 150 269 0.41
St. Croix River District 60 0 681 114 567 0.11
Village Neighborhood 133 0 1,480 150 1,330 0.10
Village Mixed Use 65 0 287 18 269 0.24
Recreation Area
Protected 10 0 2,132 1,566 567 0.02
Total 1,488 30 21,632 3,962 17,671 0.09
Source: Washington County Parcel Data
In October of 2022, Scandia adopted a new Unified Development Code to replace the existing
zoning and subdivision ordinances. With this change, districts have been renamed and
modified. Scandia’s Unified Development Code, which includes both zoning and subdivision
standards, zoning code specifies maximum density for various residential development. Based
on these requirements, Table II-I shows the number of housing units per acre that can be
developed under current zoning regulations. These densities are anticipated to remain the same
in corresponding future land uses. Most large lot residential zoning districts require lots to be a
minimum of two acres, and all zoning districts have a maximum lot coverage of 25%. Bonus
densities in the Village Neighborhood District allow up to one dwelling unit per acre. This is
done to make efficient use of existing resources in Village Neighborhood and to guide
residential development to these areas to help preserve agricultural lands and open spaces from
development.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 20
Table II-I – Current Residential Allowed Density Ranges
Land Use Category Units/Acres
(Ordinance Standards)
St. Croix River District 4/40
Agricultural Preserve 1/40
Agriculture Core District 4/40
General Rural District Rural Residential General
and Rural Residential Neighborhood 4/40
Village Neighborhood District 4/40 1/2.5
Village Mixed Use A District Village – Historic
Center 5/1 ½.5
Village Mixed Use B District Village Center 5/1 1/2.5
When density is regulated by a ratio that references 40 acres, those 40 acres shall be the area
defined by the Public Land Survey as Quarter-Quarter Sections. Until sewer improvements are
made, zoning in the Rural Mixed Use area will remain General Rural Rural Residential
General.
The zoning code for the City of Scandia provides a maximum lot coverage for commercial and
industrial development. The Metropolitan Council has provided estimates for the number of
employees per square feet in various employment types; rates range from 556 square feet per
job at the low end (medical clinics) to 2,500 square feet per job at the high end (hotels). Using
the city’s lot coverage allowance as guidance, an estimate of jobs/square foot can be estimated
to project future employment based on future land use designations and planned development.
The Village Mixed Use A District Village – Historic Center District allows a maximum lot
coverage of 80 percent. The Village Center District allows a maximum lot coverage of 35
percent. The Rural Commercial District, Village Mixed Use B District and Industrial Park
District all both allow a maximum lot coverage of 65 percent.
Future Land Use
The 2040 Land Use Map (Figure II-H) shows the desired land use for all property in Scandia.
Table II-J summarizes the planned land uses by category shown on the map. The planned future
land uses shown on this map reflect previous community planning efforts as well as desired
updates identified as part of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update process.
Table II-J – Planned Land Use
Land Use Gross Acres Percent of Total Area
Agricultural Core 6,953 27%
General Rural 9,679 38%
Mining 443 1.7%
Rural Commercial 75 0.3%
Rural Mixed Use 419 1.6%
St. Croix River District 681 2.7%
Village Neighborhood 1,480 5.8%
Village Mixed Use 287 1.1%
Recreation Area Protected 2,132 8.4%
Open Water 3,252 12.8%
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 21
Railway 73 0.3%
Total 25,475 100%
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 22
Figure II-H – Planned Land Use
UPDATED MAP
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 23
Future land use designations were determined by a variety of factors, including an analysis of
existing land use, the current land use plan, and development constraints. Factors impacting
development include:
• Existing regional parks, Wildlife Management Areas, and Scenic and Natural Areas;
• Steep slopes;
• Wetlands and waterbodies;
• Roads, railroads, and the Regional Bike Trail Network;
• Shoreland and flood plain;
• Agricultural Preserves; and
• Prime farmland.
Figure II-I maps development constraints in the City of Scandia.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 24
Figure II-I – Development Constraints
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 25
Table II-K summarizes the developable land available by decade in future land uses
classifications. Non-developable land includes areas that cannot be developed, such as
wetlands, steep slopes, and the road right-of-way, as well as existing development.
Development is forecasted for each decade at existing land use densities, adding to the amount
of non-developable land in each land use. Forecasted development is based on projected
housing and employment needs (as projected in Table II-B, Forecasted Population, Households
and Employment), minimum lot sizes by each land use district and an anticipated allocation of
the projected housing development between each of the land use districts. The planned future
land uses shown on this map reflect previous community planning efforts as well as desired
updates identified as part of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update process.
Table II-K – Planned Land Use Net Acres
Planned Land Use
Category
2015 (Current) 2020 2030 2040
De
v
e
l
o
p
a
b
l
e
No
n
-
De
v
e
l
o
p
a
b
l
e
De
v
e
l
o
p
a
b
l
e
No
n
-
De
v
e
l
o
p
a
b
l
e
De
v
e
l
o
p
a
b
l
e
No
n
-
De
v
e
l
o
p
a
b
l
e
De
v
e
l
o
p
a
b
l
e
No
n
-
De
v
e
l
o
p
a
b
l
e
Acres Acres Acres Acres Acres Acres Acres Acres
Agricultural Core 5688 1265 5588 1365 5488 1465 5388 1565
General Rural 6121 3559 5710 3969 5310 4369 4903 4776
Mining 262 181 262 181 262 181 262 181
St. Croix River District 296 385 206 475 106 575 6 675
Rural Commercial 45 30 44 32 42 34 41 35
Rural Mixed Use 269 150 269 150 269 150 195 224
Village Mixed Use 125 162 109 178 88 199 67 220
Village Neighborhood 1,080 400 780 700 430 1,050 200 1,280
Open Water 0 3,252 0 3,252 0 3,252 0 3,252
Recreation Area Protected 0 2132 0 2132 0 2132 0 2132
Railway 0 73 0 73 0 73 0 73
Total 13,887 11,589 12,968 12,507 11,995 13,480 11,062 14,413
To meet projected housing needs, it is anticipated homes will be developed in the following
percentages in each respective land use district.
Table II-L – Planned Land Use Development Characteristics
Land Use Percent of Anticipated Housing Units
Agricultural Core 5%
General Rural 21%
Rural Mixed Use 5%
St. Croix River District 5%
Village Neighborhood 60.4%
Village Mixed Use 3.4%
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 26
The following land use descriptions will be used for planning purposes and correspond to the
planned land use designations on the Planned Land Use Map.
a) Agricultural Core
The Agricultural Core district is established to protect and preserve land for long-term
agricultural production. Over time, the nature of agricultural production in Scandia will
most likely change from traditional dairy farms to specialty agriculture and agriculture
production for local/metropolitan markets. Residential development compatible with
agriculture uses (4 per 40 density) and parks will be a secondary land use in this
district. This designation corresponds with the Agricultural Core Area zoning district in
the current zoning ordinance. The City’s zoning and subdivision ordinance should
allow density bonuses up to 75% will be considered for single-family developments if
providing community value through agricultural land protection, life-cycle housing,
natural resource protection or other amenities.
b) General Rural
The General Rural area land use category is a residential area of mixed lot sizes. It
recognizes areas of Scandia that have been developed in the past at densities of ten acre
or less and areas that have larger parcels still used for agriculture. The area includes 10-
acre parcels, but also a number of existing smaller parcels and some parcels enrolled in
the Agricultural Preserves Program. Single-family residential dwellings are the primary
land use for the General Rural area at densities of 4 units per 40 acres in the same
Quarter-Quarter Section. Secondary land uses include agricultural production,
including small-scale production, parks and recreation, and public and private
institutions. Recreational commercial uses are allowed as a conditional use. This
designation corresponds with the General Rural Rural Residential General and Rural
Residential Neighborhood District in the current zoning ordinance. The City’s zoning
and subdivision ordinance should allow density bonuses up to 75% will be considered
for single-family developments if providing community value through agricultural land
protection, life-cycle housing, natural resource protection or other amenities.
c) Village Mixed Use
This land use category recognizes the significant contribution of the existing village
center to the overall character of the community. New commercial, retail, and
residential activity will be encouraged in order to develop and redevelop areas in the
village center while maintaining the historic nature of the village center. Primary land
uses in the Village Mixed Use area include commercial, office, retail, public and
private institutions, civic buildings, light industrial, and parks and recreation.
Residential uses, including single family homes, townhouses and multi-family
buildings, will be a secondary use. Multi-family buildings in the village center will
achieve the goal of diversifying the housing options for younger families, seniors, and
singles. Future lot sizes will be similar to the existing mix of lot sizes in the village
center. In order to support these relatively small lot sizes, community sewer systems
are anticipated. This designation corresponds with the Village Mixed Use AVillage -
Historic Core and and B and Village Center Districts, and the Planned Industrial
District in the current zoning ordinance. The zoning ordinance requires a minimum lot
size of 2.5 acres per unit. Higher densities up to one five units per acre may be
permitted through Conservation Design or Cluster Development, Conditional Use
Permits, or Planned Unit Developments on a case by case basis, depending on the land
use intensity and the ability of the site and/or system to manage wastewater. Per the
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
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City Development Code Chapter 2, Section 6, density bonuses up to 75% will be
considered for multi-unit developments if providing community value through
agricultural land protection, life-cycle housing or natural resource protection or other
amenities. The City’s zoning and subdivision ordinance should allow density bonuses
up to 75% will be considered for single-family developments if providing community
value through agricultural land protection, life-cycle housing, natural resource
protection or other amenities. This is consistent with existing multi-unit developments
like the Oakhill Cottages. While exact proportions of uses will be dependent on
development, it is anticipated the Village Mixed Use District will have roughly 60
percent commercial/office/retail uses and 40 percent residential uses.
d) Village Neighborhood
The Village Neighborhood area is a planned extension of the existing Village Center,
located adjacent to and north and west of the Village Center. This land use category
designates a growth area surrounding the village and is intended to support single and
multi-family residential uses on lot sizes reflective of the existing village lot sizes. This
corresponds with the Village Neighborhood District in the current zoning ordinance.
The primary land use for the Village Neighborhood area will be small-lot, single-
family residential uses. Public and private institutions, civic buildings, and parks and
recreation uses will also be allowed. Townhomes and multi-family units will be
allowed as an incentive for providing community value through agricultural land
protection, life-cycle housing, or natural resource protection. New development in the
Village Neighborhood District will be at a density of 4 units per 40 acres in the same
Quarter-Quarter Section. A community sewer system may be necessary in order to
allow for lot sizes similar to existing village lots. By concentrating development in the
Village Neighborhood area, the City of Scandia hopes to protect agricultural and
natural resource areas from development pressure. The zoning ordinance requires a
minimum lot size of 12.5 acres per unit. Higher densities up to one unit per 1.5 acre
may be permitted through Cluster Development or Conservation Design practices,
Conditional Use Permits, or Planned Unit Developments on a case by case basis,
depending on the land use intensity and the ability of the site and/or system to manage
wastewater. Per the City Development Code Chapter 2, Section 6, density bonuses up
to 75% will be considered for multi-unit developments if providing community value
through agricultural land protection, life-cycle housing or natural resource protection or
other amenities. The City’s zoning and subdivision ordinance should allow density
bonuses up to 75% will be considered for single-family developments if providing
community value through agricultural land protection, life-cycle housing, natural
resource protection or other amenities. This is consistent with existing multi-unit
developments like the Oakhill Cottages.
St. Croix River District
The St. Croix River District recognizes the unique historical and natural resource
aspects of the floodplain and bluffs of the shoreland area of the St. Croix River. This
area includes historic crossroad and seasonal home communities, parkland, river
access, and areas protected under scenic easements held by the National Park Service.
The mapped area east of State Highway 95 corresponds to land areas protected under
federal wild and scenic river designation. The future of this area includes limited
residential development that protects the natural and scenic shoreland areas, and public
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
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and private protected lands. This corresponds with the Lower St. Croix River Corridor
Overlay District in the current zoning ordinance.
New development in the St. Croix River District will be at a density of 4 units per 40
acres. Smaller lots may be permitted through the use of open space conservation
subdivisions but may not exceed maximum densities. Viewsheds should be considered
and protected in the siting of structures and driveways.
e) Rural Commercial
The Rural Commercial future land use area is intended to support commercial
development in places of historic commercial activity. These areas are the only
commercial areas anticipated outside of the Village Center and are intended to
complement Village Center commercial uses. Rural Commercial areas are designated at
the historic commercial nodes of the Big Marine Store, Copas/Abrahamson Nurseries,
and the intersection of Highways 95 and 97. Commercial uses reflecting the historic
nature of the community and compatible with the surrounding rural character will be
allowed on lot sizes of at least 2 acres. Because this future land use area builds upon
historic character, commercial building design standards shall reflect the historic nature
of the community. This corresponds with the Rural Commercial District in the current
zoning ordinance.
f) Rural Mixed Use
The Rural Mixed Use area is located to the west of Big Marine Lake. This is a new
land use category and is intended to allow for single-family residential development
connected to the Big Marine Store rural commercial area. Single family residential
would be at a maximum density of 4 units per 40 acres. Some civic buildings, small
commercial, and parks and recreation uses will also be allowed. It is anticipated the
Rural Mixed Use District will have roughly 85 percent residential uses and 15 percent
commercial or civic uses.
Improvements to the existing community system are necessary to permit higher density
in this area. Until that occurs, new development will be limited in this area. Section 5
of the City of Scandia’s Subdivision Ordinance includes lack of adequate sewage
treatment systems as a condition of premature development within the City, which shall
not be approved by City Council. Until the sewer is improved, the current General
Rural Rural Residential General zoning district will remain in place, preserving land at
residential densities of 4 units/40 acres to be consistent with the Diversified Rural
community designation. Upgrades and improvements to the community system will
occur alongside new development in the area. The presence of wetlands and the
additional regulations of the shoreland overlay district, which covers many parcels in
this area of the City, will likely be constraining factors for both new development and
sewer improvements.
However, it is the intention of the City of Scandia to encourage development and
higher densities in this area once improvements to the community sewer are made. To
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 29
that end, the City will work to amend the zoning ordinance and comprehensive plan as
needed to implement higher densities and land use once the infrastructure is sufficient.
g) St. Croix River District
The St. Croix River District recognizes the unique historical and natural resource
aspects of the floodplain and bluffs of the shoreland area of the St. Croix River. This
area includes historic crossroad and seasonal home communities, parkland, river
access, and areas protected under scenic easements held by the National Park Service.
The mapped area east of State Highway 95 corresponds to land areas protected under
federal wild and scenic river designation. The future of this area includes limited
residential development that protects the natural and scenic shoreland areas, and public
and private protected lands. This corresponds with the Lower St. Croix River Corridor
Overlay District in the current zoning ordinance.
New development in the St. Croix River District will be at a density of 4 units per 40
acres. Smaller lots may be permitted through the use of open space conservation
subdivisions but may not exceed maximum densities. Viewsheds should be considered
and protected in the siting of structures and driveways.
h) Recreation Area Protected
The Recreation Area Protected land use category includes publicly owned lands
permanently protected from development. This designation recognizes that these areas
will continue to be used for recreation or open space only and not developed. If
recreation facilities are developed within these areas, priority natural resource areas
shall be protected. In addition, priority natural resources should be restored and
enhanced wherever possible within protected recreation areas. This designation
corresponds with the Agricultural Preserves, Agricultural Core Area, and General
Rural Rural Residential General Districts in the zoning ordinance.
i) Mining
The Mining area includes areas in the City of Scandia with active, permitted mining
operations. Mining activity is anticipated to continue in these areas in the future.
Mining uses must comply with local and state extractive use regulations and
reclamation shall restore the topography and natural resources of the site to a level such
that the land is suitable for the planned future land uses such as agriculture or
residential. This corresponds with the Aggregate Mining Overlay District in the current
zoning ordinance.
The following overlay district will also guide land uses in specific, sensitive areas:
• Agriculture Preserves Overlay District (AP)
The Agricultural Preserves Overlay plans for the continuation of the Agricultural Preserves
Program is Scandia. This overlay is intended to encourage the continuation of agriculture
through ensuring the availability of the Program to qualifying agricultural landowners.
The Agricultural Preserves Overlay lies over the primary agricultural future land use area,
the Agricultural Core Area. The Agricultural Preserves Overlay allows individual property
owners within Scandia to continue to participate in the Agricultural Preserves Program.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
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This voluntary program for landowners within the seven-county metropolitan area allows
individuals to place their properties under a restrictive covenant committing their property
to agricultural use in exchange for certain benefits. These benefits include a special tax rate
calculated based on agricultural value rather than market value, a property tax credit,
protection of normal farm practices, and protection against special assessments for public
improvement projects.
While the underlying zoning district (Agricultural Core Area) allows four dwellings per 40
acres, parcels enrolled in the Agricultural Preserves Program and located within the
Agricultural Preserves Overlay shall be allowed only 1 unit per 40 acres per program
requirements.
Additional details on the corresponding zoning districts are included on Table X-A in the
Implementation chapter.
1. Density Calculations
Based on the above future land use plan and land use calculations, residential and
commercial land use requirements have been calculated to help Scandia plan for and meet
Metropolitan Council projections for population, households, and employment. Residential
calculations are detailed in Table II-M and commercial calculations are detailed in
Table II-N.
Residential
To meet forecasted 2040 population and household projections, the City of Scandia will
need to add 582 housing units by 2040. These calculations show the number of acres
needed to accommodate all needed housing units in each zoning district. Residential
development is anticipated to take place in all residential zoning districts in an orderly
manner consistent with the staging plan, discussed below. These calculations do not include
any density bonuses which may be allowed per the Zoning Ordinance. Actual acreage
needed to accommodate future households and their locations will be influenced by market
forces.
Table II-M – Residential Density Increase Calculations
Future Land Use Zoning
Districts Permitting
Residential Use
Density
(Units/Acre)
Desired
Distribution
Number of
Households
Acres
Needed
Current (2015)
Developable Acres
Agricultural Core 4/40 5% 30 300 5,688
General Rural 4/40 21% 122 1,220 6,121
St. Croix River Corridor 4/40 5% 29 290 296
Rural Mixed Use 4/40 5% 7 73 269
Village Neighborhood 1/2.5 4/40 60.4 7.8% 352 44 440 880 1,080 1/1.5 55% 308 462
Village Mixed Use 1/2.5 5/1 3.4% 20 50 4 125
Total 100% 560 2,813
2,789
13,889
Commercial
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
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To meet forecasted 2040 employment projections, the City of Scandia will need to add 190
jobs by 2040. These calculations show the number of acres needed to accommodate all
needed new jobs in each zoning district. Based on guided land use and available
developable acres, Scandia has sufficient available vacant land to meet employment
projections based on development in the Village Mixed Use (commercial/industrial) Rural
Commercial, and Rural Mixed Use (both commercial) districts. Actual acreage needed to
accommodate jobs will greatly depend on the types of businesses starting or expanding in
Scandia. These calculations also do not include remote telecommuting, home occupations,
or permitted employment opportunities in agricultural zoning districts, all of which will
influence the number of acres needed to accommodate employment in Scandia.
Table II-N – Commercial/Industrial Increased Density Calculations
Zoning
Districts
Density Range
(Jobs/Acre) Desired
Distribution
Number
of Jobs
Minimum
Acres
Maximum
Acres
Current (2015)
Developable
Acres Minimum Maximum
Village
Mixed Use 14 62.4 60% 114 1.8 8.1 125
Rural
Commercial 11.4 50.7 30% 57 1.1 5 46
Rural
Mixed Use 11.4 50.7 10% 19 0.4 1.7 269
Total - - 100% 190 3.3 14.8 440
2. Staged Development or Redevelopment
The goal of a Staging Plan is to manage growth and guide the orderly and cost-effective
provision of infrastructure at a rate that is consistent with forecasted growth, at the same
time responding appropriately to market conditions. Table II-O identifies the staging of
future growth in Scandia. This table indicates the anticipated timing and sequence of
growth. It identifies the developable acres, number of housing units and jobs that may be
developed in each 10-year planning period. The table is not intended to limit or to compel
growth in any specific area within the planning period. Rather, it is an estimation of where
growth may logically occur.
A staging plan cannot force development to occur but can be used as a tool to guide
development appropriately. In many cases, cities choose to stage and time growth in an
orderly and contiguous manner; however, there is nothing about adopting a staged growth
plan that forces any private property owner to sell or develop their land before they wish to
do so. The City of Scandia will make development decisions based on existing and
development of new infrastructure, land capacity and market conditions.
Table II-O – Staging of Future Land Use Units/Jobs/Acres
Outside Urban
Service Area
Average Density
Range Housing
Existing
Developable
(2015)
2020 2030 2040
Residential Units/Acre Acres Units Acres Units Acres Units Acres
Agricultural Core 0.1 5,688 10 100 10 100 10 100
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
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General Rural 0.1 6,121 41 410 40 400 41 410
Rural Mixed Use 0.1 269 0 0 0 0 7 73
St. Croix River District 0.1 296 9 90 10 100 10 100
Village Mixed Use 0.4 125 5 13 7 18 8 20
Village Neighborhood 0.4 1,080 120 300 140 350 92 230
Average Density for New Development 560 units/2,789 814 = 0.20 units/acre
Non-Residential Estimated
Employment/Acre
Developable
Acres Jobs Acres Jobs Acres Jobs Acres
Village Mixed Use 14 62.4 125 53 3.8 50 3.6 11 0.8
Rural Commercial 11.4 50.7 46 27 2.4 20 1.8 10 0.9
Rural Mixed Use 11.4 50.7 269 0 0 0 0 19 1.67
Average Density for New Development 190 jobs/14.8 acres = 12.8 jobs/acre
One of the main desires of this comprehensive plan is to preserve and augment the
community character and history in Scandia. To support the Village Center, the social and
economic heart of the city, infill development will be encouraged in vacant or underutilized
lots. This will help encourage a vibrant Village Center and surrounding residential
neighborhoods while utilizing existing infrastructure, guiding development and
redevelopment in an orderly manner. The expansion of Village Neighborhoods and Village
Mixed Use the Village zoning districts will occur as market conditions allow.
The implementation of the Rural Mixed Use district west of Big Marine Lake will be
contingent upon infrastructure repairs or upgrades. Most homes in this area are currently
served by community sewer, which is aging and to the point of needing repairs. The City of
Scandia is currently assessing options to best provide wastewater services to this portion of
the city, discussed more in Chapter VI. Development in this area of the city should be
aligned with future wastewater plans and investments.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Housing
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Projected Housing Needs
The City of Scandia is anticipated to see modest population and household growth by 2040.
Exact housing needs and demand for new housing development will be influenced by the actual
population growth and average household size. The amount of land needed to accommodate
new housing units will be influenced by several factors, including the desire for accessory
dwelling units and the location of new units. Most of the city’s housing growth is anticipated to
take place in the Village Neighborhood designation, which permits higher density residential
development than General Rural or Agricultural. Accessory dwelling units on existing lots can
also accommodate the city’s projected population growth without greatly increasing the
demand for developable land.
Figure VI-G – Household Projections
Appendix A details the housing needs and gaps identified by respondents to the 2017
Community Survey. Residential development was noted as one of the top priorities for the city
for the next 20 years. Most survey respondents expressed a desire for mid-range, single-family
homes on larger lots. When asked to identify gaps, the most common response was about the
lack of senior or assisted living (45% of survey responses).
As noted in Appendix B, focus group participants also expressed a desire for housing north of
Highway 97, north/west of the current village center and around Big Marine Lake. There was
interest in senior housing options, which ranged from care facilities to varying house sizes
(smaller single family, townhomes) and lot configurations, such as accessory dwelling units.
To accommodate projected housing needs, the Future Land Use plan expands the Village
Neighborhood designation north and west, a reflection of both public comments and orderly,
contiguous residential expansion. This designation accommodates smaller homes and smaller
lot sizes, blending into the historical character of the Village Center. The zoning ordinance also
includes density bonuses for the development of life-cycle housing, where the housing units are
designated for residents age 55 or older or are affordable to households with incomes less than
120% of AMI. Large lot, single family homes are the primary housing type permitted in
General Rural Rural Residential General, Agricultural Core, and the St. Croix River zoning
districts to preserve the city’s rural character.
408
851
1,060
1,294
1,498 1,518 1,700
1,910 2,100
1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 2030 2040
Household Projections in Scandia
Number of Households
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 121
X. IMPLEMENTATION
Implementation Plan
The Comprehensive plan creates a vision for the City of Scandia and guides land use and
infrastructure improvements so that the City can meet the needs of the community in the future.
The vision of the plan can only be realized if the plan is used. Tools to implement the plan will
vary in that some will be reactive, such as zoning and subdivision ordinances that guide private
developments, and others will be proactive, such as the City’s Capital Improvement Program
(CIP) for undertaking public improvement projects.
1. Official Controls
To achieve the goals and objectives of this Comprehensive Plan, the City of Scandia has
adopted a Development Code to establish regulations for zoning, subdivision of land, and
shoreland and floodplain areas. The Development Code was originally adopted in
November of 2010, with ongoing amendments as needed. Scandia’s Development Code
incorporates all land development regulations into a single code.
Zoning
City zoning codes regulate land use to promote the health, safety, order, convenience, and
general welfare of all citizens. They regulate location, size, use and height of buildings, the
arrangement of buildings on lots, and the density of population within the City. The City’s
zoning districts effectively guide development in Scandia.
The City of Scandia is divided into eight nine zoning districts, detailed below and shown in
Figure X-A. There are permitted and accessory uses in most districts, as well as the other
allowed uses under conditional use permit, interim use permits, or administrative permits.
Table X-A provides a high-level summary of each zoning district, and Table X-B provides
a summary of each overlay district.
To ensure compliance with this 2040 Comprehensive Plan, the following zoning ordinance
changes will need to be implemented:
• Update zoning map based on future land use plan
• Reconcile inconsistencies between current zoning ordinance and intended future
land uses
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 122
Figure X-A – Current Zoning Map
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 123
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Zo
n
i
n
g
C
l
a
s
s
i
f
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
s
Agricultural
Preserves
District (AP)
General Description
This district plans for the continuation of the Agricultural Preserves Program in Scandia.
Regulations fulfill standards to make land eligible for the Metropolitan Agricultural Preserves
according to Minnesota Statute 473H, as amended, to remain in long-term agricultural production.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Agricultural production
• Agricultural businesses and services
• Single family residential
• Essential Services
• Feedlots and livestock operations
• Parks and recreation facilities
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
General farming services
Density /Intensity 1 unit per 40 acres. Maximum lot coverage is 25%.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Continued viability of agricultural uses considered in siting of structures and drives
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) I. Character Area:
Agricultural Districts (A-P and AG-C)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 124
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Agricultural
Core Area
(AG-C)
General Description The AG-C District is established to protect and preserve land for long-term agricultural production.
Residential development compatible with agriculture is permitted.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Agricultural production
• Agricultural businesses and services
• Single family residential
• Essential Services
• Feedlots and livestock operations
• Parks and recreation facilities
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
• General farming services
Density/Intensity
4 buildable lots per 40 acres. Lots shall be 2 to 5 acres in size or 20 acres or greater. Maximum lot
coverage is 25%.
An open space conservation subdivision providing the minimum required open space shall receive a
25% density bonus. The number of additional bonus lots allowed is directly tied to the quantity and
quality of preservation and protection afforded natural landscapes, agricultural land, open space, and
cultural features. The maximum bonus permitted is 75%.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Continued viability of agricultural uses considered in siting of structures and drives
• Open space conservation subdivisions are encouraged
• Bonus density incentives may be offered in open space conservation subdivisions only if
agricultural protection is the focal point of the subdivision design
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) I. Character Area: Agricultural
Districts (A-P and AG-C)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 125
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
General Rural
Rural
Residential
General
District (RR-
G)
General Description
Lands zoned Rural Residential General(RR-G)are established to provide for principal residential use
with estate or large-lot development patterns. The RR-G District includes lot or parcel
configurations that are generally unplatted, including mostly non-riparian land. The RR-G District
areas are guided General Rural in the Comprehensive Plan.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Agricultural production
• Agricultural businesses and services
• Single family residential
• Essential Services
• Feedlots and livestock operations
• Parks and recreation facilities
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
• General farming services
Density/Intensity
4 buildable lots per 40 acres; minimum lot size of 2 acres. Maximum lot coverage is 25%.
An open space conservation subdivision providing the minimum required open space shall receive a
25% density bonus. The number of additional bonus lots allowed is directly tied to the quantity and
quality of preservation and protection afforded natural landscapes, agricultural land, open space, and
cultural features. The maximum bonus permitted is 75%.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Continued viability of agricultural uses considered in siting of structures and drives
• Open space conservation subdivisions are encouraged for subdivisions
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) II. Character Area: Rural
Residential Districts (RR-G and RR-N)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 126
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Rural
Residential
Neighborhood
District (RR-
N)
General Description
Lands zoned RR-N are the parcels adjoining, abutting, or a portion of which are within 1,000 feet of
a lake with a public waters designation that were historically platted or divided into smaller lots for
seasonal use. The use of these lots has generally transitioned to permanent year-round use with
predominantly principal residential uses. Most parcels and lots in the RR-N District are at least 50%
contained within the Shoreland Management Overlay (SM-O) District. In addition to the standards
identified in this Section, the lots or parcels are subject to the regulations contained within Chapters
155 of the City Code and the Washington County St. Croix River District standards which are
incorporated by reference herein. Land zoned RR-N are guided Agricultural Core and General Rural
in the Comprehensive Plan.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Agricultural production
• Single family residential
• Essential Services
• Parks and recreation facilities
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
Density/Intensity 4 buildable lots per 40 acres; minimum lot size of 2 acres. Maximum lot coverage is 25%.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Continued viability of agricultural uses considered in siting of structures and drives
• Open space conservation subdivisions are encouraged for subdivisions
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) II. Character Area: Rural
Residential Districts (RR-G and RR-N)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 127
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Village Mixed
Use A Village
– Historic
Core District
(VMU A V-
HC)
General Description
The VMU A V-HC District is established to sustain the historic village center by preserving and
protecting the long-term viability of historic properties and structures, and by allowing a mixture of
mutually supportive land uses. The mixture of commercial, office, institutional, recreational, and
residential land uses are made compatible through the enforcement of design guidelines.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Commercial, office, retail
• Public and private institutions
• Civic buildings
• Light industrial
• Parks and recreation
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory Structures
• Recreation facilities and equipment
Density /Intensity 2,500 square feet minimum lot size 5 dwelling units per acre. No new subdivisions of land
permitted. Maximum lot coverage of 80%. Maximum building height is 45 feet.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• In the core of the Village, buildings shall be of a size and have setbacks that reflect the
“downtown” character
• Scandia Architectural Design Guidelines and Unified Development Code Character Area
Standards should be used as an example to protect the historic elements and further development
should match these styles
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) III. Character Area: Village
Districts (V-N, V-C and V-HC)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 128
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Village Mixed
Use B Center
District (VMU
B V-C)
General Description
The VMU B V-C District is established to provide a growth area around the Village Center. The
District provides for a mixture of commercial, office, institutional, recreational, and residential land
uses. The District provides an area for larger scale businesses, for businesses that benefit from
visibility from MN Hwy 97, and for business and mixed-use development that utilize on-site
wastewater treatment systems.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Department, discount, and warehouse stores
• Garden supply stores
• Laundromats
• Sports and fitness clubs, less than 4,000 square feet in area
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory Structures
• Recreation facilities and equipment
Density /Intensity 5 dwelling units per acre. 2.5 acres minimum lot size, 1 acre minimum buildable area. Maximum lot
coverage 65%. Maximum building height 45 feet
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) III. Character Area: Village Districts
(V-N, V-C and V-HC)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 129
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Village
Neighborhood
District (V-N)
General Description The V-N District is established to designate growth areas surrounding the village center, to support
primarily single-family residential uses on lot sizes reflective of the existing village lot sizes.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Single family residential
• Public parks and recreation
• Agriculture
• Essential Services
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
Recreation facilities and equipment
Density/Intensity
Single family: 4 dwelling unit per 40 acres in the same Quarter-Quarter Section.1 dwelling unit per
2.5 acres. 1 dwelling unit per 1.5 acres (where applicable).
Multifamily (with conditional use permit): 1 dwelling unit per 1.5 acres. Bonus densities up to 1
dwelling unit per acre may be earned as an incentive for providing life-cycle housing (age 55+).
utilized if if public water and sewer is available and the parcel or lot is hooked up to municipal
service.
Lots sizes in the Goose Lake shoreland area shall remain consistent with those allowed under the
current shoreland ordinance.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Design standards shall ensure that new development is visually compatible with existing village
development patterns.
• Street and sidewalk standards ensure new development is well-connected to the Village Center
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) III. Character Area: Village
Districts (V-N, V-C and V-HC)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 130
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Industrial
Park District
(I-P)
General Description
The IP District is established to allow for light industrial businesses. IP District areas are designated
Village Mixed Use in the Comprehensive Plan. Industrial park uses include a variety of light
manufacturing, fabrication, assembly, warehouse, wholesaling or storage businesses that are non-
threatening to the environment. The IP District does not abut major roadways, and property access is
via a local street which does not also serve residential districts.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Permitted uses:
• Building Supplies
• Contractor Operations
• Light Manufacturing and Assembly
• Essential services
• Government Buildings
• Recreational Uses
Secondary uses:
• Accessory Structures
• Off-Street Parking
• Temporary Produce Stands
Density /Intensity 2.05 acres minimum lot size, 1 acre minimum buildable area. Maximum lot coverage 65%.
Maximum building height 45 feet
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) IV. Character Area: Business Districts
(R-C and I-P)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 131
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Rural
Commercial
District (R-C)
General Description
Lands zoned Rural Commercial are intended to support commercial development of rural areas in
the community that have historically been used for some type of business use. R-C zoned land is
guided Rural Commercial in the Comprehensive Plan.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Permitted uses:
• Agriculture
• Banks, Credit Unions, and other financial institutions
• Bed and Breakfast Inns
• Offices
• Motor Vehicle Service Stations
• Restaurants
Secondary uses:
• Accessory Structures
• Off-Street Parking
Density /Intensity 2.0 acres minimum lot size, 1 acre minimum buildable area. Maximum lot coverage 65%. Maximum
building height 45 feet
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) IV. Character Area: Business Districts
(R-C and I-P)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 132
Table X-B – Overlay Districts
Ov
e
r
l
a
y
D
i
s
t
r
i
c
t
s
Aggregate
Mining
Overlay
District
General Description
The Aggregate Mining Overlay District provides areas where mineral deposits, primarily gravel,
may be made available for general use under the conditions and regulations of Chapter 4 of the
Scandia Development Code, Mining and Related Activities Regulations. The Aggregate Mining
Overlay District areas are designated Mining Area in the Comprehensive Plan.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Permitted uses:
• Mining
• Essential services
Secondary uses:
• Accessory Structures
Density /Intensity 1 parcel with at least 40 contiguous acres in size
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Mining uses must comply with local and state extractive use regulations. Reclamation plan must
restore the natural resource of the site to a level such that the land is suitable for he planned future
land uses such as agriculture or residential.
Shoreland
Ordinance
General Description The Shoreland Ordinance was adopted to protect the public resource that is shoreland around lakes,
ponds, and rivers.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Single family residential
• Parks and historic sites
• Agriculture
Density /Intensity Density limitations are dependent on the underlying zoning. Some exceptions to this will apply and
requirements for those can be found in Chapter Five of the Development Code.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 133
Table X-B – Overlay Districts
Saint Croix
River
Overlay
District
General Description
The city adopts by reference the Washington County Lower St. Croix River Bluffland and
Shoreland Management Ordinance, as amended, until such time that the City Council adopts a City
of Scandia Lower St. Croix River corridor ordinance for this zone. Until then, properties within the
Lower St. Croix River Corridor Overlay District are regulated according to the Washington County
Lower St. Croix River Bluffland and Shoreland Management Ordinance with the exception that lots
shall meet the density and lot requirements of the Agriculture District – Core (AG C).
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Conservancy
• Agriculture
• Single Family Residential
Secondary uses:
• Accessory uses which are incidental to the permitted primary uses of the property
Density /Intensity Density limitations are dependent on the underlying zoning.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Both aesthetic elements and uses have regulations within the code adopted by Washington County.
Floodplain
Overlay
District
General Description Promote the public health, safety, and general welfare and to minimize accidental losses.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• General open spaces used for uses such as boat launching ramps, swimming areas, parks,
wildlife and nature preserve, fish hatcheries and hunting and fishing areas.
• Residential units
Density /Intensity Density limitations are dependent on the underlying zoning.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Only uses that have a low flood damage potential will be allowed. The use will be allowed by the
underlying zoning district. The use shall not obstruct flows or increase flood elevation.
Prepared by
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Scandia
Comprehensive Plan
Scandia, Minnesota April 2019, Updated August 2023
Proposed Future Land Use
Legend
Agricultural Core
General Rural
Mining
St Croix River District
Recreation Area Protected
Rural Commercial
Rural Mixed Use
Village Mixed Use
Village Neighborhood
Open Water
Railway
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Source: Washington County, Met. Council, MnGeo, MnDOT, Esri
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Future Land Use
City Limits
County Boundary
PARCELS
Aggregate Resources
Agricultural Preserves
Highway
1 | P a g e
Date of Meeting: May 1, 2024
To: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
From: T.J. Hofer, Consultant City Planner
Re: Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Density and Zoning Discussion
The City has identified a conflict between the 2040 Comprehensive Plan and the Unified
Development Code (UDC) that sets inconsistent density standards in the Village Neighborhood
(V-N) Base Zoning District. Staff have prepared language to update the Comprehensive Plan
based on direction from the City Council to ensure that the adopted documents are consistent.
The packet from the April 16, 2024, City Council meeting is attached and includes the
background of the project and a summary of the proposed changes.
BACKGROUND
At the April 16, 2024, meeting of the City Council, the Council discussed the proposed
comprehensive plan amendment. Discussion focused on the increased density allowed in the
Village Neighborhood future land use based on land use intensity and the ability to manage
wastewater. The language within the comprehensive plan establishes standards that are left to be
interpreted by the City in how to enact these higher densities. The UDC further restricts the
higher density ratio by creating requirements that “public water and sewer is available and the
parcel or lot is hooked up to municipal service.” The Council discussed the possibility of
allowing the higher density ratio through the use of private shared or common wastewater
systems. The Council tabled the CPA and asked staff to look into the use of private shared
system. These questions included:
• What are the average lot sizes within the Village Neighborhood and Village Mixed-Use
future land use districts?
• Is there a minimum or maximum amount of users that can or should be allowed on a
shared private system?
• Is there a mechanism that could force the City to take over the operation and maintenance
of a private shared system?
• What kind of impacts will the proposed comprehensive plan amendment have on the
UDC?
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ANALYSIS OF STANDARDS
The proposed amendment to the 2040 Comprehensive Plan is attached to this staff report. The
proposed changes are related to density, resulting calculations from changes to densities, and the
referenced zoning ordinance (the zoning ordinance was replaced with the Unified Development
Code in October of 2022).
The proposed changes to density will lower the density within the Village Neighborhood future
land use from 1 dwelling unit (DU) per 2.5 acres to 4 DU per 40 acres as well as allow higher
densities of 1 DU per 1.5 acres depending on the land use intensity and the ability of the site
and/or system to manage wastewater.
Additional changes to the future land use descriptions were added to detail the use of planned
unit developments (PUD) and the bonus density that can be gained. Following this amendment,
the UDC will need to be amended to establish additional standards for PUDs and OS-PUDs.
Chapter X. Implementation includes Table X-A which provides a high-level summary of each
zoning district. This table has been updated to reflect the new zoning within the UDC. A
proposed Future Land Use Map is also included within the updates and attached to the staff
report that reflects the comments made at the June 20, 2023, City Council meeting by moving the
western edge of the Village Neighborhood district further to the east.
ANALYSIS
City Council
The staff report from the April 16, 2024, City Council meeting is attached with staff’s original
analysis. Below staff has provided responses to the concerns established at the April 16, 2024,
meeting.
What are the average lot sizes within the Village Neighborhood and Village Mixed-Use
future land use districts?
Council asked staff to gather data on lots within the Village Neighborhood and Village Mixed-
Use future land uses. Staff have run an analysis using GIS to determine certain metrics on lots in
these future land uses. In analyzing this data, it became apparent that there were a number of lots
in both districts that were owned by the City of Scandia or Washington County that were not
relevant to determining the average lot size. Some of these parcels are small pieces of right of
way, other are park areas or other small municipal lots. For the Village Mixed Use, staff have
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elected to leave the multifamily development known as Oakhill Cottages (PID 1403220330006
and 2303220220001) as the use is relevant to the analysis.
Village Mixed Use
Village Mixed Use Future Land Use Guidance Lot Data
Parcel Data with City
and County
Parcel Data without City
and County*
Total Acreage 319.31 276.85
Total Lots 150 110
Average 2.13 2.52
Median 0.47 0.83
Mode 0.17 0.18
Largest Lot 45.34 45.34
Smallest Lot** 0.00 0.01
*Includes the properties owned by Washington County CDA with PID 1403220330006 and 2303220220001
**Many lots within the Village Mixed Use District are small lots under 0.1 acres that are remnants of old plats,
right-of-way, and slivers of parcels that are non-conforming
The Village Mixed Use (V-MU) future land use has an average lot size of 2.13 acres with a
median of 0.47 acres. There are several larger lots within the V-MU that increases the average.
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Village Neighborhood
Village Neighborhood Future Land Use Guidance Lot Data
Parcel Data with City
and County
Parcel Data without City
and County
Total Acreage 1277.59 1261.85
Total Lots 224 211
Average 5.70 5.98
Median 2.15 2.33
Mode 2.00 2.00
Largest Lot 63.87 63.87
Smallest Lot* 0.06 0.06
The Village Neighborhood (V-N) future land use has an average lot size of 5.70 acres with a
median of 2.15 acres. Much like the V-MU future land use, there are a number of larger lots
within the V-MU that increases the average.
Is there a minimum or maximum amount of users that can or should be allowed on a shared
private system?
Staff contacted Washinton County, a septic designer who regularly works within the City (Ben
Zierke, Zierke Soil Testing), and two professionals who regularly work with wastewater within
5 | P a g e
Bolton & Menk (Seth Peterson, Senior Principal Environmental Engineer; Brian Malm, Principal
Engineer), to try to determine if there was a minimum or maximum practical users on a shared
wastewater systems.
Based on conversations with these various resources, staff believes that there is no way to
determine a limitation on a minimum or maximum number of users on a shared system based
simply on the design of the system. Shared systems can be designed to accommodate any
number of users if the land is suitable for the system. Private systems need to be sized based on
the total number of potential users and a higher number does not provide an economy of scale, so
a higher number of users does not provide cost savings on the system as a whole. The County
does not provide recommendations for or against the use of private shared systems but did
caution that the systems will inevitably fail to some extent. Additionally, based on comments
from the County staff understand that a lower number of users on a system can result in more
risk to the system.
The County noted that a system that is over 10,000 gallons per day (approximately 22 three-
bedroom homes), require a State Disposal System (SDS) permit from the Minnesota Pollution
Control Agency (MPCA). Once a system is permitted through the SDS permit, the MPCA would
be responsible for monitoring and future issues. 10,000 gallons could be used as a standard for
allowing the higher density ratio, however, a standard that requires this may limit the ability of
some parcels to develop. Brian Malm, Bolton & Menk, advised that the cost to install a system
that is 10,000 gallons per day is extremely high due to design, monitoring, and maintenance
costs. Additionally, Malm advised that the size required for a system of that size is difficult to
estimate because each site is going to have different challenges that change how a system is
developed. There are existing systems in the City that are near this size or over this size
including the shared septic for the Wyldewood Acres and the City owned and operated system
within the Bliss Addition.
The County did note that an individual septic system can be established on a lot that is 1.5 acres
with enough room to have buildable area for a single-family dwelling. The County noted that for
development at a ratio of 1 DU per 1.5 acres, a private shared system may not be necessary.
Is there a mechanism that could force the City to take over the operation and maintenance of
a private shared system?
Staff does not believe there is a mechanism through the County or State that could require the
City to take over the operation and maintenance of a private shared system. The City could
intervene through assuming operation and maintenance responsibilities or connecting the private
system to municipal utilities, but would not be required to intervene.
The concern regarding the City being required to intervene is based on the inevitability that
septic systems used to treat wastewater will inevitably fail. These systems can have operational
issues through a myriad of problems, but failure of a system is specifically defined by the
MPCA. Failure can only be established through a compliance inspection performed by a MPCA
certified SSTS inspector. Once a failure is determined, the system owner and permitting
authority are required to be sent a copy of the notice of non-compliance, which designates the
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type of failure as either an “imminent threat to public health” or “failure to protect groundwater.
Specific time frames are defined under which the SSTS owner is required to bring the system
into compliance, depending on failure type. The timeframe is no more than 10 months if it is an
“imminent threat to public health” failure, and as designated by County ordinance if it is a
“failure to protect groundwater” failure.
What kind of impacts will the proposed comprehensive plan amendment have on the UDC?
The proposed CPA related to density, resulting calculations from changes to densities, and the
referenced zoning ordinance will have impacts to the UDC.
Comprehensive Plan Amendments UDC Impact
Updates throughout the Comprehensive Plan
to reflect new districts and terms in the UDC
No impact
Changes in density to Village Neighborhood
future land use
No impact, comprehensive plan and UDC will
be consistent
Changes in density to Village Mixed Use
future land use
No impact, comprehensive plan and UDC will
be consistent
Updated Future Land Use Map No impact, alters how parcels may be rezoned
Adding and updating language regarding
density bonuses through PUDs in Agricultural
Core, General Rural, Village Mixed Use, and
Village Neighborhood
The UDC will need to be amended to reflect
the changes to the bonus densities
Changes include amendments to the OS-PUD
to allow OS-PUDs in the Village
Neighborhood zoning district and changes to
the PUD language to allow for bonus density
based on housing type, specifically focusing
on life-cycle housing
Changes to language regarding higher density
allowance in Village Neighborhood
No impact, UDC may be amended to be less
restrictive and allow for private systems to
achieve higher density allowance
Changes to density calculations No impact
Planning Commission
The Planning Commission heard the application at the April 2, 2024, meeting. The Commission
held a public hearing where no comments were received. The Commission then closed the public
hearing. The motion was approved with a vote of 4-1 (Aye: Loeffler, Hogle, Rynders, Fodor;
7 | P a g e
Nay: Libby). A summary of the discussion at the Planning Commission is included in the
attached staff report from April 16, 2024.
Staff Analysis
Staff believes that multiple options can resolve the concerns around higher density levels and
private shared systems. Staff believes the following language within the 2040 Comprehensive
Plan amendment for the Village Neighborhood future land use is the best option forward and will
allow for the UDC to further refine the goals of the City:
Higher densities up to one unit per 1.5 acre may be permitted through Planned Unit
Developments on a case by case basis, depending on the land use intensity and at the
discretion of the City Council.
The adoption of this language with the additional change of density in the Village Neighborhood
future land use would not change how these higher density plans are implemented in the City.
Until a UDC amendment is approved, the higher density ratio would still require “if public water
and sewer is available and the parcel or lot is hooked up to municipal service.”
With the adoption of this language into the Comprehensive Plan, staff recommends that the
Council direct staff to:
• Revise the standard within the UDC that requires “public” and “municipal” connections
for higher density in the V-N district.
• Amend the UDC to expand bonus density within planned unit developments (PUD) to
allow for bonuses for life-cycle housing.
• Amend the UDC to change how PUD can be used to allow for higher densities within the
Village Neighborhood future land use.
Staff believes that the best mechanism to approve potential higher density developments in the
City is through eliminating the requirements for public water and sewer and approving
developments through PUDs. PUDs allow the City a large amount of discretion that can ensure
that developments approved through PUDs meet the needs of the City and the goals of the
Council. Through PUDs, developments could proceed with individual septic, private shared
septic, or public systems.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends:
Motion to table an amendment to the 2040 Comprehensive Plan related to density,
resulting calculations from changes to densities, and the referenced zoning ordinance and
direct staff to amendment the comprehensive plan amendment with comments from the
Council.
8 | P a g e
Attachments
A. Resolution 04-16-24-02 Adopting a Comprehensive Plan Amendment
B. Resolution 04-16-24-03 Authorizing Submittal of a Comprehensive Plan Amendment
C. Proposed Amended 2040 Comprehensive Plan – Redlines Only
D. 2040 Comprehensive Plan (Link Only)
E. Proposed Future Land Use Map
F. Future Land Use Map (Link Only)
G. City Council "Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Density and Zoning Discussion”
Packet, April 16, 2024 (Link Only)
1
CITY OF SCANDIA
WASHINGTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA
RESOLUTION NO. 04-16-24-02
A RESOLUTION ADOPTING A COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT
REGARDING ESTABLISHED FUTURE LAND USES, ESTABLISHED DENSITY
STANDARDS, PRODUCED DENSITY CALCULATIONS, AND REFERENCED
ZONING STANDARDS
WHEREAS, on April 2, 2024, the Scandia Planning Commission held a public hearing
regarding a Comprehensive Plan Amendment regarding established future land uses, established
density standards, produced density calculations, and referenced zoning standards, attached hereto
as Exhibit A (comprehensive plan amendment) that revises and amends the Scandia 2040
Comprehensive Plan; and
WHEREAS, any change to the Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan requires approval of a
comprehensive plan amendment; and,
WHEREAS, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes section 473. 858, the proposed comprehensive
plan amendment was submitted to adjacent governmental units for review and comment on January
31, 2024, and the comment period ended on March 30, 2024, with seven responses; and
WHEREAS, the City conducted a public hearing on April 2, 2024, relative to the adoption
of the proposed comprehensive plan amendment; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has considered the proposed comprehensive plan
amendment and all public comments and thereafter recommended approval of the amendment to
this City Council; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has reviewed the proposed comprehensive plan amendment
and those recommendations, public comments, and comments from adjacent jurisdictions.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of Scandia, Minnesota, as
follows:
The Comprehensive Plan Amendment regarding established future land uses, established
density standards, produced density calculations, and referenced zoning standards attached
hereto is adopted, to take full legal effect as soon as practical under laws of the State of
Minnesota.
2
Adopted by the City Council of the City of Scandia this 16th day of April 2024.
____________________
Christine Maefsky, Mayor
ATTEST:
Kyle Morell, City Administrator
3
EXHIBIT A
1
CITY OF SCANDIA
WASHINGTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA
RESOLUTION NO. 04-16-24-03
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING SUBMITTAL OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
UPDATE TO THE METROPOLITAN COUNCIL
WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes section 473.864 requires each local governmental unit to
review and, if necessary, amend its entire comprehensive plan and its fiscal devices and official
controls at least once every ten years to ensure its comprehensive plan conforms to metropolitan
system plans and ensure its fiscal devices and official controls do not conflict with the
comprehensive plan or permit activities that conflict with metropolitan system plans; and
WHEREAS, the City of Scandia has completed its decennial review and adopted the City
of Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan on December 18, 2018; and
WHEREAS, the City of Scandia has established future land uses, established density
standards, produced density calculations, and referenced zoning standards; and,
WHEREAS, the City of Scandia desires to change density standards to direct higher density
development towards the established village center within the City; and,
WEHEREAS, the City of Scandia adopted the Unified Development Code on September
20, 2022, to replace the previous zoning and subdivision codes; and,
WHEREAS, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes section 473. 858, the proposed Comprehensive
Plan Update was submitted to adjacent governmental units for review and comment on January 31,
2024, and the comment period ended on March 30, 2024, with seven responses; and
WHEREAS, the City conducted a public hearing on April 2, 2024, relative to the adoption
of the proposed Comprehensive Plan Update; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has considered the proposed Comprehensive Plan
Update and all public comments and thereafter submitted its recommendations to this City Council;
and
WHEREAS, the City Council has reviewed the proposed Comprehensive Plan Update and
those recommendations, public comments, and comments from adjacent jurisdictions; and
WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes section 473.858 requires a local governmental unit to
submit a proposed comprehensive plan update to the Metropolitan Council following
recommendation by the Planning Commission and after consideration but before final approval by
the governing body of the local governmental unit; and
WHEREAS, based on its review of the proposed Comprehensive Plan Update and Planning
Commission and staff recommendations, the City Council is ready to submit its proposed plan to the
Metropolitan Council for review pursuant to Minnesota Statutes section 473. 864.
2
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, the City Council for the City of Scandia hereby:
1. The Administrator is directed to distribute said Comprehensive Plan Update to the
Metropolitan Council pursuant to Minnesota Statutes section 473.864.
Adopted by the City Council of the City of Scandia this 16th day of April 2024.
____________________
Christine Maefsky, Mayor
ATTEST:
Kyle Morell, City Administrator
City of Scandia
2040 Comprehensive Plan – Volume 1
Approved by Metropolitan Council October 9, 2019
Approved by City of Scandia October 15, 2019, Amended April 16, 2024
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 19
Table II-H identifies the number of existing housing units in each land use category.
Table II-H – Existing Net Residential Density (in Planned Land Use Categories)
Planned Land Use
Category
Single
Family
Number
of Units
Multi-
Family
Number
of Units
Acres
Gross
Residential
Acres Development
Constraints
(wetlands, parks,
ROW, etc.)
Net
Residential
Acres
Net Density
Units/Acre
A B C D E=C-D (A+B)/E
Agricultural Core 229 0 6,953 731 6,221 0.04
General Rural 881 30 9,679 1,232 8,447 0.11
Rural Mixed Use 110 0 419 150 269 0.41
St. Croix River District 60 0 681 114 567 0.11
Village Neighborhood 133 0 1,480 150 1,330 0.10
Village Mixed Use 65 0 287 18 269 0.24
Recreation Area
Protected 10 0 2,132 1,566 567 0.02
Total 1,488 30 21,632 3,962 17,671 0.09
Source: Washington County Parcel Data
In October of 2022, Scandia adopted a new Unified Development Code to replace the existing
zoning and subdivision ordinances. With this change, districts have been renamed and
modified. Scandia’s Unified Development Code, which includes both zoning and subdivision
standards, zoning code specifies maximum density for various residential development. Based
on these requirements, Table II-I shows the number of housing units per acre that can be
developed under current zoning regulations. These densities are anticipated to remain the same
in corresponding future land uses. Most large lot residential zoning districts require lots to be a
minimum of two acres, and all zoning districts have a maximum lot coverage of 25%. Bonus
densities in the Village Neighborhood District allow up to one dwelling unit per acre. This is
done to make efficient use of existing resources in Village Neighborhood and to guide
residential development to these areas to help preserve agricultural lands and open spaces from
development.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 20
Table II-I – Current Residential Allowed Density Ranges
Land Use Category Units/Acres
(Ordinance Standards)
St. Croix River District 4/40
Agricultural Preserve 1/40
Agriculture Core District 4/40
General Rural District Rural Residential General
and Rural Residential Neighborhood 4/40
Village Neighborhood District 4/40 1/2.5
Village Mixed Use A District Village – Historic
Center 5/1 ½.5
Village Mixed Use B District Village Center 5/1 1/2.5
When density is regulated by a ratio that references 40 acres, those 40 acres shall be the area
defined by the Public Land Survey as Quarter-Quarter Sections. Until sewer improvements are
made, zoning in the Rural Mixed Use area will remain General Rural Rural Residential
General.
The zoning code for the City of Scandia provides a maximum lot coverage for commercial and
industrial development. The Metropolitan Council has provided estimates for the number of
employees per square feet in various employment types; rates range from 556 square feet per
job at the low end (medical clinics) to 2,500 square feet per job at the high end (hotels). Using
the city’s lot coverage allowance as guidance, an estimate of jobs/square foot can be estimated
to project future employment based on future land use designations and planned development.
The Village Mixed Use A District Village – Historic Center District allows a maximum lot
coverage of 80 percent. The Village Center District allows a maximum lot coverage of 35
percent. The Rural Commercial District, Village Mixed Use B District and Industrial Park
District all both allow a maximum lot coverage of 65 percent.
Future Land Use
The 2040 Land Use Map (Figure II-H) shows the desired land use for all property in Scandia.
Table II-J summarizes the planned land uses by category shown on the map. The planned future
land uses shown on this map reflect previous community planning efforts as well as desired
updates identified as part of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update process.
Table II-J – Planned Land Use
Land Use Gross Acres Percent of Total Area
Agricultural Core 6,953 27%
General Rural 9,679 38%
Mining 443 1.7%
Rural Commercial 75 0.3%
Rural Mixed Use 419 1.6%
St. Croix River District 681 2.7%
Village Neighborhood 1,480 5.8%
Village Mixed Use 287 1.1%
Recreation Area Protected 2,132 8.4%
Open Water 3,252 12.8%
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 21
Railway 73 0.3%
Total 25,475 100%
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 22
Figure II-H – Planned Land Use
UPDATED MAP
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 26
The following land use descriptions will be used for planning purposes and correspond to the
planned land use designations on the Planned Land Use Map.
a) Agricultural Core
The Agricultural Core district is established to protect and preserve land for long-term
agricultural production. Over time, the nature of agricultural production in Scandia will
most likely change from traditional dairy farms to specialty agriculture and agriculture
production for local/metropolitan markets. Residential development compatible with
agriculture uses (4 per 40 density) and parks will be a secondary land use in this
district. This designation corresponds with the Agricultural Core Area zoning district in
the current zoning ordinance. The City’s zoning and subdivision ordinance should
allow density bonuses up to 75% for single-family developments if providing
community value through agricultural land protection, life-cycle housing, natural
resource protection or other amenities.
b) General Rural
The General Rural area land use category is a residential area of mixed lot sizes. It
recognizes areas of Scandia that have been developed in the past at densities of ten acre
or less and areas that have larger parcels still used for agriculture. The area includes 10-
acre parcels, but also a number of existing smaller parcels and some parcels enrolled in
the Agricultural Preserves Program. Single-family residential dwellings are the primary
land use for the General Rural area at densities of 4 units per 40 acres in the same
Quarter-Quarter Section. Secondary land uses include agricultural production,
including small-scale production, parks and recreation, and public and private
institutions. Recreational commercial uses are allowed as a conditional use. This
designation corresponds with the General Rural Rural Residential General and Rural
Residential Neighborhood District in the current zoning ordinance. The City’s zoning
and subdivision ordinance should allow density bonuses up to 75% for single-family
developments if providing community value through agricultural land protection, life-
cycle housing, natural resource protection or other amenities.
c) Village Mixed Use
This land use category recognizes the significant contribution of the existing village
center to the overall character of the community. New commercial, retail, and
residential activity will be encouraged in order to develop and redevelop areas in the
village center while maintaining the historic nature of the village center. Primary land
uses in the Village Mixed Use area include commercial, office, retail, public and
private institutions, civic buildings, light industrial, and parks and recreation.
Residential uses, including single family homes, townhouses and multi-family
buildings, will be a secondary use. Multi-family buildings in the village center will
achieve the goal of diversifying the housing options for younger families, seniors, and
singles. Future lot sizes will be similar to the existing mix of lot sizes in the village
center. In order to support these relatively small lot sizes, community sewer systems
are anticipated. This designation corresponds with the Village Mixed Use AVillage -
Historic Core and and B and Village Center Districts, and the Planned Industrial
District in the current zoning ordinance. The zoning ordinance requires a minimum lot
size of 2.5 acres per unit. Higher densities up to one five units per acre may be
permitted through Conservation Design or Cluster Development, Conditional Use
Permits, or Planned Unit Developments on a case by case basis, depending on the land
use intensity and the ability of the site and/or system to manage wastewater. Per the
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 27
City Development Code Chapter 2, Section 6, density bonuses up to 75% will be
considered for multi-unit developments if providing community value through
agricultural land protection, life-cycle housing or natural resource protection or other
amenities. The City’s zoning and subdivision ordinance should allow density bonuses
up to 75% for single-family developments if providing community value through
agricultural land protection, life-cycle housing, natural resource protection or other
amenities. This is consistent with existing multi-unit developments like the Oakhill
Cottages. While exact proportions of uses will be dependent on development, it is
anticipated the Village Mixed Use District will have roughly 60 percent
commercial/office/retail uses and 40 percent residential uses.
d) Village Neighborhood
The Village Neighborhood area is a planned extension of the existing Village Center,
located adjacent to and north and west of the Village Center. This land use category
designates a growth area surrounding the village and is intended to support single and
multi-family residential uses on lot sizes reflective of the existing village lot sizes. This
corresponds with the Village Neighborhood District in the current zoning ordinance.
The primary land use for the Village Neighborhood area will be small-lot, single-
family residential uses. Public and private institutions, civic buildings, and parks and
recreation uses will also be allowed. Townhomes and multi-family units will be
allowed as an incentive for providing community value through agricultural land
protection, life-cycle housing, or natural resource protection. New development in the
Village Neighborhood District will be at a density of 4 units per 40 acres in the same
Quarter-Quarter Section. A community sewer system may be necessary in order to
allow for lot sizes similar to existing village lots. By concentrating development in the
Village Neighborhood area, the City of Scandia hopes to protect agricultural and
natural resource areas from development pressure. The zoning ordinance requires a
minimum lot size of 2.5 acres per unit. Higher densities up to one unit per 1.5 acre may
be permitted through Cluster Development or Conservation Design practices,
Conditional Use Permits, or Planned Unit Developments on a case by case basis,
depending on the land use intensity and the ability of the site and/or system to manage
wastewater. Per the City Development Code Chapter 2, Section 6, density bonuses up
to 75% will be considered for multi-unit developments if providing community value
through agricultural land protection, life-cycle housing or natural resource protection or
other amenities. The City’s zoning and subdivision ordinance should allow density
bonuses up to 75% for single-family developments if providing community value
through agricultural land protection, life-cycle housing, natural resource protection or
other amenities. This is consistent with existing multi-unit developments like the
Oakhill Cottages.
St. Croix River District
The St. Croix River District recognizes the unique historical and natural resource
aspects of the floodplain and bluffs of the shoreland area of the St. Croix River. This
area includes historic crossroad and seasonal home communities, parkland, river
access, and areas protected under scenic easements held by the National Park Service.
The mapped area east of State Highway 95 corresponds to land areas protected under
federal wild and scenic river designation. The future of this area includes limited
residential development that protects the natural and scenic shoreland areas, and public
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 28
and private protected lands. This corresponds with the Lower St. Croix River Corridor
Overlay District in the current zoning ordinance.
New development in the St. Croix River District will be at a density of 4 units per 40
acres. Smaller lots may be permitted through the use of open space conservation
subdivisions but may not exceed maximum densities. Viewsheds should be considered
and protected in the siting of structures and driveways.
e) Rural Commercial
The Rural Commercial future land use area is intended to support commercial
development in places of historic commercial activity. These areas are the only
commercial areas anticipated outside of the Village Center and are intended to
complement Village Center commercial uses. Rural Commercial areas are designated at
the historic commercial nodes of the Big Marine Store, Copas/Abrahamson Nurseries,
and the intersection of Highways 95 and 97. Commercial uses reflecting the historic
nature of the community and compatible with the surrounding rural character will be
allowed on lot sizes of at least 2 acres. Because this future land use area builds upon
historic character, commercial building design standards shall reflect the historic nature
of the community. This corresponds with the Rural Commercial District in the current
zoning ordinance.
f) Rural Mixed Use
The Rural Mixed Use area is located to the west of Big Marine Lake. This is a new
land use category and is intended to allow for single-family residential development
connected to the Big Marine Store rural commercial area. Single family residential
would be at a maximum density of 4 units per 40 acres. Some civic buildings, small
commercial, and parks and recreation uses will also be allowed. It is anticipated the
Rural Mixed Use District will have roughly 85 percent residential uses and 15 percent
commercial or civic uses.
Improvements to the existing community system are necessary to permit higher density
in this area. Until that occurs, new development will be limited in this area. Section 5
of the The City of Scandia’s Unified Development Code Subdivision Ordinance
includes lack of adequate sewage treatment systems as a condition of premature
development within the City, which shall not be approved by City Council. Until the
sewer is improved, the current General Rural Rural Residential General zoning district
will remain in place, preserving land at residential densities of 4 units/40 acres to be
consistent with the Diversified Rural community designation. Upgrades and
improvements to the community system will occur alongside new development in the
area. The presence of wetlands and the additional regulations of the shoreland overlay
district, which covers many parcels in this area of the City, will likely be constraining
factors for both new development and sewer improvements.
However, it is the intention of the City of Scandia to encourage development and
higher densities in this area once improvements to the community sewer are made. To
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 29
that end, the City will work to amend the zoning ordinance and comprehensive plan as
needed to implement higher densities and land use once the infrastructure is sufficient.
g) St. Croix River District
The St. Croix River District recognizes the unique historical and natural resource
aspects of the floodplain and bluffs of the shoreland area of the St. Croix River. This
area includes historic crossroad and seasonal home communities, parkland, river
access, and areas protected under scenic easements held by the National Park Service.
The mapped area east of State Highway 95 corresponds to land areas protected under
federal wild and scenic river designation. The future of this area includes limited
residential development that protects the natural and scenic shoreland areas, and public
and private protected lands. This corresponds with the Lower St. Croix River Corridor
Overlay District in the current zoning ordinance.
New development in the St. Croix River District will be at a density of 4 units per 40
acres. Smaller lots may be permitted through the use of open space conservation
subdivisions but may not exceed maximum densities. Viewsheds should be considered
and protected in the siting of structures and driveways.
h) Recreation Area Protected
The Recreation Area Protected land use category includes publicly owned lands
permanently protected from development. This designation recognizes that these areas
will continue to be used for recreation or open space only and not developed. If
recreation facilities are developed within these areas, priority natural resource areas
shall be protected. In addition, priority natural resources should be restored and
enhanced wherever possible within protected recreation areas. This designation
corresponds with the Agricultural Preserves, Agricultural Core Area, and General
Rural Rural Residential General Districts in the zoning ordinance.
i) Mining
The Mining area includes areas in the City of Scandia with active, permitted mining
operations. Mining activity is anticipated to continue in these areas in the future.
Mining uses must comply with local and state extractive use regulations and
reclamation shall restore the topography and natural resources of the site to a level such
that the land is suitable for the planned future land uses such as agriculture or
residential. This corresponds with the Aggregate Mining Overlay District in the current
zoning ordinance.
The following overlay district will also guide land uses in specific, sensitive areas:
• Agriculture Preserves Overlay District (AP)
The Agricultural Preserves Overlay plans for the continuation of the Agricultural Preserves
Program is Scandia. This overlay is intended to encourage the continuation of agriculture
through ensuring the availability of the Program to qualifying agricultural landowners.
The Agricultural Preserves Overlay lies over the primary agricultural future land use area,
the Agricultural Core Area. The Agricultural Preserves Overlay allows individual property
owners within Scandia to continue to participate in the Agricultural Preserves Program.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 30
This voluntary program for landowners within the seven-county metropolitan area allows
individuals to place their properties under a restrictive covenant committing their property
to agricultural use in exchange for certain benefits. These benefits include a special tax rate
calculated based on agricultural value rather than market value, a property tax credit,
protection of normal farm practices, and protection against special assessments for public
improvement projects.
While the underlying zoning district (Agricultural Core Area) allows four dwellings per 40
acres, parcels enrolled in the Agricultural Preserves Program and located within the
Agricultural Preserves Overlay shall be allowed only 1 unit per 40 acres per program
requirements.
Additional details on the corresponding zoning districts are included on Table X-A in the
Implementation chapter.
1. Density Calculations
Based on the above future land use plan and land use calculations, residential and
commercial land use requirements have been calculated to help Scandia plan for and meet
Metropolitan Council projections for population, households, and employment. Residential
calculations are detailed in Table II-M and commercial calculations are detailed in
Table II-N.
Residential
To meet forecasted 2040 population and household projections, the City of Scandia will
need to add 582 housing units by 2040. These calculations show the number of acres
needed to accommodate all needed housing units in each zoning district. Residential
development is anticipated to take place in all residential zoning districts in an orderly
manner consistent with the staging plan, discussed below. These calculations do not include
any density bonuses which may be allowed per the Unified Development Code through
special approvals such as Planned Unit Developments. Actual acreage needed to
accommodate future households and their locations will be influenced by market forces.
Table II-M – Residential Density Increase Calculations
Future Land Use Zoning
Districts Permitting
Residential Use
Density
(Units/Acre)
Desired
Distribution
Number of
Households
Acres
Needed
Current (2015)
Developable Acres
Agricultural Core 4/40 5% 30 300 5,688
General Rural 4/40 21% 122 1,220 6,121
St. Croix River Corridor 4/40 5% 29 290 296
Rural Mixed Use 4/40 5% 7 73 269
Village Neighborhood 1/2.5 4/40 60.4 7.8% 352 44 440 880 1,080 1/1.5 55% 308 462
Village Mixed Use 1/2.5 5/1 3.4% 20 50 4 125
Total 100% 560 2,813
2,789
13,889
Commercial
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 31
To meet forecasted 2040 employment projections, the City of Scandia will need to add 190
jobs by 2040. These calculations show the number of acres needed to accommodate all
needed new jobs in each zoning district. Based on guided land use and available
developable acres, Scandia has sufficient available vacant land to meet employment
projections based on development in the Village Mixed Use (commercial/industrial) Rural
Commercial, and Rural Mixed Use (both commercial) districts. Actual acreage needed to
accommodate jobs will greatly depend on the types of businesses starting or expanding in
Scandia. These calculations also do not include remote telecommuting, home occupations,
or permitted employment opportunities in agricultural zoning districts, all of which will
influence the number of acres needed to accommodate employment in Scandia.
Table II-N – Commercial/Industrial Increased Density Calculations
Zoning
Districts
Density Range
(Jobs/Acre) Desired
Distribution
Number
of Jobs
Minimum
Acres
Maximum
Acres
Current (2015)
Developable
Acres Minimum Maximum
Village
Mixed Use 14 62.4 60% 114 1.8 8.1 125
Rural
Commercial 11.4 50.7 30% 57 1.1 5 46
Rural
Mixed Use 11.4 50.7 10% 19 0.4 1.7 269
Total - - 100% 190 3.3 14.8 440
2. Staged Development or Redevelopment
The goal of a Staging Plan is to manage growth and guide the orderly and cost-effective
provision of infrastructure at a rate that is consistent with forecasted growth, at the same
time responding appropriately to market conditions. Table II-O identifies the staging of
future growth in Scandia. This table indicates the anticipated timing and sequence of
growth. It identifies the developable acres, number of housing units and jobs that may be
developed in each 10-year planning period. The table is not intended to limit or to compel
growth in any specific area within the planning period. Rather, it is an estimation of where
growth may logically occur.
A staging plan cannot force development to occur but can be used as a tool to guide
development appropriately. In many cases, cities choose to stage and time growth in an
orderly and contiguous manner; however, there is nothing about adopting a staged growth
plan that forces any private property owner to sell or develop their land before they wish to
do so. The City of Scandia will make development decisions based on existing and
development of new infrastructure, land capacity and market conditions.
Table II-O – Staging of Future Land Use Units/Jobs/Acres
Outside Urban
Service Area
Average Density
Range Housing
Existing
Developable
(2015)
2020 2030 2040
Residential Units/Acre Acres Units Acres Units Acres Units Acres
Agricultural Core 0.1 5,688 10 100 10 100 10 100
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 32
General Rural 0.1 6,121 41 410 40 400 41 410
Rural Mixed Use 0.1 269 0 0 0 0 7 73
St. Croix River District 0.1 296 9 90 10 100 10 100
Village Mixed Use 0.4 125 5 13 7 18 8 20
Village Neighborhood 0.4 1,080 120 300 140 350 92 230
Average Density for New Development 560 units/2,789 814 = 0.20 units/acre
Non-Residential Estimated
Employment/Acre
Developable
Acres Jobs Acres Jobs Acres Jobs Acres
Village Mixed Use 14 62.4 125 53 3.8 50 3.6 11 0.8
Rural Commercial 11.4 50.7 46 27 2.4 20 1.8 10 0.9
Rural Mixed Use 11.4 50.7 269 0 0 0 0 19 1.67
Average Density for New Development 190 jobs/14.8 acres = 12.8 jobs/acre
One of the main desires of this comprehensive plan is to preserve and augment the
community character and history in Scandia. To support the Village Center, the social and
economic heart of the city, infill development will be encouraged in vacant or underutilized
lots. This will help encourage a vibrant Village Center and surrounding residential
neighborhoods while utilizing existing infrastructure, guiding development and
redevelopment in an orderly manner. The expansion of Village Neighborhoods and Village
Mixed Use the Village zoning districts will occur as market conditions allow.
The implementation of the Rural Mixed Use district west of Big Marine Lake will be
contingent upon infrastructure repairs or upgrades. Most homes in this area are currently
served by community sewer, which is aging and to the point of needing repairs. The City of
Scandia is currently assessing options to best provide wastewater services to this portion of
the city, discussed more in Chapter VI. Development in this area of the city should be
aligned with future wastewater plans and investments.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Housing
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 53
Projected Housing Needs
The City of Scandia is anticipated to see modest population and household growth by 2040.
Exact housing needs and demand for new housing development will be influenced by the actual
population growth and average household size. The amount of land needed to accommodate
new housing units will be influenced by several factors, including the desire for accessory
dwelling units and the location of new units. Most of the city’s housing growth is anticipated to
take place in the Village Neighborhood designation, which permits higher density residential
development than General Rural or Agricultural. Accessory dwelling units on existing lots can
also accommodate the city’s projected population growth without greatly increasing the
demand for developable land.
Figure VI-G – Household Projections
Appendix A details the housing needs and gaps identified by respondents to the 2017
Community Survey. Residential development was noted as one of the top priorities for the city
for the next 20 years. Most survey respondents expressed a desire for mid-range, single-family
homes on larger lots. When asked to identify gaps, the most common response was about the
lack of senior or assisted living (45% of survey responses).
As noted in Appendix B, focus group participants also expressed a desire for housing north of
Highway 97, north/west of the current village center and around Big Marine Lake. There was
interest in senior housing options, which ranged from care facilities to varying house sizes
(smaller single family, townhomes) and lot configurations, such as accessory dwelling units.
To accommodate projected housing needs, the Future Land Use plan expands the Village
Neighborhood designation north and west, a reflection of both public comments and orderly,
contiguous residential expansion. This designation accommodates smaller homes and smaller
lot sizes, blending into the historical character of the Village Center. The zoning ordinance also
includes density bonuses for the development of housing, where the housing units are
designated for residents age 55 or older or are affordable to households with incomes less than
120% of AMI. Large lot, single family homes are the primary housing type permitted in
General Rural Rural Residential General, Agricultural Core, and the St. Croix River zoning
districts to preserve the city’s rural character.
408
851
1,060
1,294
1,498 1,518 1,700
1,910 2,100
1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 2030 2040
Household Projections in Scandia
Number of Households
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 121
X. IMPLEMENTATION
Implementation Plan
The Comprehensive plan creates a vision for the City of Scandia and guides land use and
infrastructure improvements so that the City can meet the needs of the community in the future.
The vision of the plan can only be realized if the plan is used. Tools to implement the plan will
vary in that some will be reactive, such as zoning and subdivision ordinances that guide private
developments, and others will be proactive, such as the City’s Capital Improvement Program
(CIP) for undertaking public improvement projects.
1. Official Controls
To achieve the goals and objectives of this Comprehensive Plan, the City of Scandia has
adopted a Development Code to establish regulations for zoning, subdivision of land, and
shoreland and floodplain areas. The Development Code was originally adopted in
November of 2010, with ongoing amendments as needed. Scandia’s Development Code
incorporates all land development regulations into a single code.
Zoning
City zoning codes regulate land use to promote the health, safety, order, convenience, and
general welfare of all citizens. They regulate location, size, use and height of buildings, the
arrangement of buildings on lots, and the density of population within the City. The City’s
zoning districts effectively guide development in Scandia.
The City of Scandia is divided into eight nine zoning districts, detailed below and shown in
Figure X-A. There are permitted and accessory uses in most districts, as well as the other
allowed uses under conditional use permit, interim use permits, or administrative permits.
Table X-A provides a high-level summary of each zoning district, and Table X-B provides
a summary of each overlay district.
To ensure compliance with this 2040 Comprehensive Plan, the following zoning ordinance
changes will need to be implemented:
• Update zoning map based on future land use plan
• Reconcile inconsistencies between current zoning ordinance and intended future
land uses
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 122
Figure X-A – Current Zoning Map
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 123
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Zo
n
i
n
g
C
l
a
s
s
i
f
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
s
Agricultural
Preserves
District (AP)
General Description
This district plans for the continuation of the Agricultural Preserves Program in Scandia.
Regulations fulfill standards to make land eligible for the Metropolitan Agricultural Preserves
according to Minnesota Statute 473H, as amended, to remain in long-term agricultural production.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Agricultural production
• Agricultural businesses and services
• Single family residential
• Essential Services
• Feedlots and livestock operations
• Parks and recreation facilities
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
General farming services
Density /Intensity 1 unit per 40 acres. Maximum lot coverage is 25%.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Continued viability of agricultural uses considered in siting of structures and drives
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) I. Character Area:
Agricultural Districts (A-P and AG-C)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 124
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Agricultural
Core Area
(AG-C)
General Description The AG-C District is established to protect and preserve land for long-term agricultural production.
Residential development compatible with agriculture is permitted.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Agricultural production
• Agricultural businesses and services
• Single family residential
• Essential Services
• Feedlots and livestock operations
• Parks and recreation facilities
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
• General farming services
Density/Intensity
4 buildable lots per 40 acres. Lots shall be 2 to 5 acres in size or 20 acres or greater. Maximum lot
coverage is 25%.
An open space conservation subdivision providing the minimum required open space shall receive a
25% density bonus. The number of additional bonus lots allowed is directly tied to the quantity and
quality of preservation and protection afforded natural landscapes, agricultural land, open space, and
cultural features. The maximum bonus permitted is 75%.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Continued viability of agricultural uses considered in siting of structures and drives
• Open space conservation subdivisions are encouraged
• Bonus density incentives may be offered in open space conservation subdivisions only if
agricultural protection is the focal point of the subdivision design
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) I. Character Area: Agricultural
Districts (A-P and AG-C)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 125
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
General Rural
Rural
Residential
General
District (RR-
G)
General Description
Lands zoned Rural Residential General(RR-G)are established to provide for principal residential use
with estate or large-lot development patterns. The RR-G District includes lot or parcel
configurations that are generally unplatted, including mostly non-riparian land. The RR-G District
areas are guided General Rural in the Comprehensive Plan.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Agricultural production
• Agricultural businesses and services
• Single family residential
• Essential Services
• Feedlots and livestock operations
• Parks and recreation facilities
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
• General farming services
Density/Intensity
4 buildable lots per 40 acres; minimum lot size of 2 acres. Maximum lot coverage is 25%.
An open space conservation subdivision providing the minimum required open space shall receive a
25% density bonus. The number of additional bonus lots allowed is directly tied to the quantity and
quality of preservation and protection afforded natural landscapes, agricultural land, open space, and
cultural features. The maximum bonus permitted is 75%.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Continued viability of agricultural uses considered in siting of structures and drives
• Open space conservation subdivisions are encouraged for subdivisions
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) II. Character Area: Rural
Residential Districts (RR-G and RR-N)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 126
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Rural
Residential
Neighborhood
District (RR-
N)
General Description
Lands zoned RR-N are the parcels adjoining, abutting, or a portion of which are within 1,000 feet of
a lake with a public waters designation that were historically platted or divided into smaller lots for
seasonal use. The use of these lots has generally transitioned to permanent year-round use with
predominantly principal residential uses. Most parcels and lots in the RR-N District are at least 50%
contained within the Shoreland Management Overlay (SM-O) District. In addition to the standards
identified in this Section, the lots or parcels are subject to the regulations contained within Chapters
155 of the City Code and the Washington County St. Croix River District standards which are
incorporated by reference herein. Land zoned RR-N are guided Agricultural Core and General Rural
in the Comprehensive Plan.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Agricultural production
• Single family residential
• Essential Services
• Parks and recreation facilities
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
Density/Intensity 4 buildable lots per 40 acres; minimum lot size of 2 acres. Maximum lot coverage is 25%.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Continued viability of agricultural uses considered in siting of structures and drives
• Open space conservation subdivisions are encouraged for subdivisions
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) II. Character Area: Rural
Residential Districts (RR-G and RR-N)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 127
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Village Mixed
Use A Village
– Historic
Core District
(VMU A V-
HC)
General Description
The VMU A V-HC District is established to sustain the historic village center by preserving and
protecting the long-term viability of historic properties and structures, and by allowing a mixture of
mutually supportive land uses. The mixture of commercial, office, institutional, recreational, and
residential land uses are made compatible through the enforcement of design guidelines.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Commercial, office, retail
• Public and private institutions
• Civic buildings
• Light industrial
• Parks and recreation
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory Structures
• Recreation facilities and equipment
Density /Intensity 2,500 square feet minimum lot size 5 dwelling units per acre. No new subdivisions of land
permitted. Maximum lot coverage of 80%. Maximum building height is 45 feet.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• In the core of the Village, buildings shall be of a size and have setbacks that reflect the
“downtown” character
• Scandia Architectural Design Guidelines and Unified Development Code Character Area
Standards should be used as an example to protect the historic elements and further development
should match these styles
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) III. Character Area: Village
Districts (V-N, V-C and V-HC)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 128
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Village Mixed
Use B Center
District (VMU
B V-C)
General Description
The VMU B V-C District is established to provide a growth area around the Village Center. The
District provides for a mixture of commercial, office, institutional, recreational, and residential land
uses. The District provides an area for larger scale businesses, for businesses that benefit from
visibility from MN Hwy 97, and for business and mixed-use development that utilize on-site
wastewater treatment systems.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Department, discount, and warehouse stores
• Garden supply stores
• Laundromats
• Sports and fitness clubs, less than 4,000 square feet in area
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory Structures
• Recreation facilities and equipment
Density /Intensity 5 dwelling units per acre. 2.5 acres minimum lot size, 1 acre minimum buildable area. Maximum lot
coverage 65%. Maximum building height 45 feet
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) III. Character Area: Village Districts
(V-N, V-C and V-HC)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 129
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Village
Neighborhood
District (V-N)
General Description The V-N District is established to designate growth areas surrounding the village center, to support
primarily single-family residential uses on lot sizes reflective of the existing village lot sizes.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Single family residential
• Public parks and recreation
• Agriculture
• Essential Services
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
Recreation facilities and equipment
Density/Intensity
Single family: 4 dwelling unit per 40 acres in the same Quarter-Quarter Section.1 dwelling unit per
2.5 acres. 1 dwelling unit per 1.5 acres (where applicable).
Multifamily (with conditional use permit): 1 dwelling unit per 1.5 acres. Bonus densities up to 1
dwelling unit per acre may be earned as an incentive for providing life-cycle housing (age 55+).
utilized depending on the land use intensity and the ability of the site and/or system to manage
wastewater.
Lots sizes in the Goose Lake shoreland area shall remain consistent with those allowed under the
current shoreland ordinance.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Design standards shall ensure that new development is visually compatible with existing village
development patterns.
• Street and sidewalk standards ensure new development is well-connected to the Village Center
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) III. Character Area: Village
Districts (V-N, V-C and V-HC)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 130
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Industrial
Park District
(I-P)
General Description
The IP District is established to allow for light industrial businesses. IP District areas are designated
Village Mixed Use in the Comprehensive Plan. Industrial park uses include a variety of light
manufacturing, fabrication, assembly, warehouse, wholesaling or storage businesses that are non-
threatening to the environment. The IP District does not abut major roadways, and property access is
via a local street which does not also serve residential districts.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Permitted uses:
• Building Supplies
• Contractor Operations
• Light Manufacturing and Assembly
• Essential services
• Government Buildings
• Recreational Uses
Secondary uses:
• Accessory Structures
• Off-Street Parking
• Temporary Produce Stands
Density /Intensity 2.05 acres minimum lot size, 1 acre minimum buildable area. Maximum lot coverage 65%.
Maximum building height 45 feet
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) IV. Character Area: Business Districts
(R-C and I-P)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 131
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Rural
Commercial
District (R-C)
General Description
Lands zoned Rural Commercial are intended to support commercial development of rural areas in
the community that have historically been used for some type of business use. R-C zoned land is
guided Rural Commercial in the Comprehensive Plan.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Permitted uses:
• Agriculture
• Banks, Credit Unions, and other financial institutions
• Bed and Breakfast Inns
• Offices
• Motor Vehicle Service Stations
• Restaurants
Secondary uses:
• Accessory Structures
• Off-Street Parking
Density /Intensity 2.0 acres minimum lot size, 1 acre minimum buildable area. Maximum lot coverage 65%. Maximum
building height 45 feet
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) IV. Character Area: Business Districts
(R-C and I-P)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 132
Table X-B – Overlay Districts
Ov
e
r
l
a
y
D
i
s
t
r
i
c
t
s
Aggregate
Mining
Overlay
District
General Description
The Aggregate Mining Overlay District provides areas where mineral deposits, primarily gravel,
may be made available for general use under the conditions and regulations of Chapter 4 of the
Scandia Development Code, Mining and Related Activities Regulations. The Aggregate Mining
Overlay District areas are designated Mining Area in the Comprehensive Plan.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Permitted uses:
• Mining
• Essential services
Secondary uses:
• Accessory Structures
Density /Intensity 1 parcel with at least 40 contiguous acres in size
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Mining uses must comply with local and state extractive use regulations. Reclamation plan must
restore the natural resource of the site to a level such that the land is suitable for he planned future
land uses such as agriculture or residential.
Shoreland
Ordinance
General Description The Shoreland Ordinance was adopted to protect the public resource that is shoreland around lakes,
ponds, and rivers.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Single family residential
• Parks and historic sites
• Agriculture
Density /Intensity Density limitations are dependent on the underlying zoning. Some exceptions to this will apply and
requirements for those can be found in Chapter Five of the Development Code.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 133
Table X-B – Overlay Districts
Saint Croix
River
Overlay
District
General Description
The city adopts by reference the Washington County Lower St. Croix River Bluffland and
Shoreland Management Ordinance, as amended, until such time that the City Council adopts a City
of Scandia Lower St. Croix River corridor ordinance for this zone. Until then, properties within the
Lower St. Croix River Corridor Overlay District are regulated according to the Washington County
Lower St. Croix River Bluffland and Shoreland Management Ordinance with the exception that lots
shall meet the density and lot requirements of the Agriculture District – Core (AG C).
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Conservancy
• Agriculture
• Single Family Residential
Secondary uses:
• Accessory uses which are incidental to the permitted primary uses of the property
Density /Intensity Density limitations are dependent on the underlying zoning.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Both aesthetic elements and uses have regulations within the code adopted by Washington County.
Floodplain
Overlay
District
General Description Promote the public health, safety, and general welfare and to minimize accidental losses.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• General open spaces used for uses such as boat launching ramps, swimming areas, parks,
wildlife and nature preserve, fish hatcheries and hunting and fishing areas.
• Residential units
Density /Intensity Density limitations are dependent on the underlying zoning.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Only uses that have a low flood damage potential will be allowed. The use will be allowed by the
underlying zoning district. The use shall not obstruct flows or increase flood elevation.
Prepared by
1 | P a g e
Date of Meeting: May 21, 2024
To: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
From: T.J. Hofer, Consultant City Planner
Re: Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Density and Zoning Discussion
The City has identified a conflict between the 2040 Comprehensive Plan and the Unified
Development Code (UDC) that sets inconsistent density standards in the Village Neighborhood
(V-N) Base Zoning District. Staff have prepared language to update the Comprehensive Plan
based on direction from the City Council to ensure that the adopted documents are consistent.
The staff report to the City Council from the April 16, 2024, meeting and the May 1, 2024,
meeting are attached and includes additional analysis of the proposal and a summary of the
proposed changes. The staff report to the Planning Commission from the April 2, 2024, meeting
is attached to the staff report from April 16, 2024 and includes the background of the proposal
and a summary of the proposed changes.
BACKGROUND
In January of 2024, the Council reviewed a draft of the Comprehensive Plan Amendment and
authorized staff to proceed with the necessary review. Letters were sent out requesting review
from 19 communities and organizations that the Metropolitan Council has deemed to be affected
by the comprehensive plan. Nine responses were received from the City of Forest Lake, City of
Hugo, City of Marine on St. Croix, Chisago Lake Township, Carnelian-Marine-St. Croix
Watershed District, ISD 831 Forest Lake, Washington County, and the National Park Service.
The comments that were received are attached at the end of this staff report.
At the April 16, 2024, meeting of the City Council, the Council discussed the proposed
comprehensive plan amendment. Discussion focused on the increased density allowed in the
Village Neighborhood future land use based on land use intensity and the ability to manage
wastewater. The Council tabled the amendment and asked for staff to research questions from
the Council.
At the May, 1, 2024 meeting of the City Council, staff presented information that was received
to address Councils questions. After discussing the information provided and the
recommendations by staff, Council tabled the amendment and asked staff to revise the
amendment based on Council’s conversation and staff’s recommendation.
2 | P a g e
ANALYSIS OF STANDARDS
The proposed amendment to the 2040 Comprehensive Plan is attached to this staff report and
have been updated to reflect the direction of the Council from the April 16, 2024, and May 1,
2024, meetings. The proposed changes are related to density, resulting calculations from changes
to densities, and the referenced zoning ordinance (the zoning ordinance was replaced with the
Unified Development Code in October of 2022). Proposed changes can be found on the
following pages: 19 – 22, 26 – 32, 53, 121, 123 – 131 within the redlined version of the
amendment and 18 – 19, 22 – 38, 49, 113 – 123 within the clean version of the amendment.
The proposed changes to density will lower the density within the Village Neighborhood future
land use from 1 dwelling unit (DU) per 2.5 acres to 4 DU per 40 acres as well as allow higher
densities of 1 DU per 1.5 acres through Planned Unit Developments on a case by case basis,
depending on the land use intensity and at the discretion of the City Council.
Additional changes to the future land use descriptions were added to detail the use of planned
unit developments (PUD) and the bonus density that can be gained. Following this amendment,
the UDC will need to be amended to establish additional standards for PUDs and OS-PUDs.
Chapter X. Implementation includes Table X-A which provides a high-level summary of each
zoning district. This table has been updated to reflect the new zoning within the UDC. A
proposed Future Land Use Map is also included within the updates and attached to the staff
report that reflects the comments made at the June 20, 2023, City Council meeting by moving the
western edge of the Village Neighborhood district further to the east.
ANALYSIS
Planning Commission
The Planning Commission heard the application at the April 2, 2024, meeting. The Commission
held a public hearing where no comments were received. The Commission then closed the public
hearing. The motion was approved with a vote of 4-1 (Aye: Loeffler, Hogle, Rynders, Fodor;
Nay: Libby). A summary of the discussion at the Planning Commission is included in the
attached staff report from April 16, 2024.
Staff Analysis
Staff believes that the proposed changes will address the concerns regarding density identified at
the June 20, 2023, August 15, 2023, January 16, 2024, April 16, 2024, and May 1, 2024 City
Council meetings.
The comprehensive plan amendment will lead to multiple changes to the UDC. One of these
changes will be to allow for a higher standard of development and increased densities through
PUDs.
3 | P a g e
Comprehensive Plan Amendments UDC Impact
Updates throughout the Comprehensive Plan
to reflect new districts and terms in the UDC
No impact
Changes in density to Village Neighborhood
future land use
No impact, comprehensive plan and UDC will
be consistent
Changes in density to Village Mixed Use
future land use
No impact, comprehensive plan and UDC will
be consistent
Updated Future Land Use Map No impact, alters how parcels may be rezoned
Adding and updating language regarding
density bonuses through PUDs in Agricultural
Core, General Rural, Village Mixed Use, and
Village Neighborhood
The UDC will need to be amended to reflect
the changes to the bonus densities
Changes include amendments to the OS-PUD
to allow OS-PUDs in the Village
Neighborhood zoning district and changes to
the PUD language to allow for bonus density
based on housing type, specifically focusing
on life-cycle housing
Changes to language regarding higher density
allowance in Village Neighborhood
No impact, UDC may be amended to be less
restrictive and allow for private systems to
achieve higher density allowance
Changes to density calculations No impact
With the adoption of this language into the Comprehensive Plan, staff recommends that the
Council direct staff to:
• Revise the standard within the UDC that requires “public” and “municipal” connections
for higher density in the V-N district.
• Amend the UDC to expand bonus density within planned unit developments (PUD) to
allow for bonuses for life-cycle housing.
• Amend the UDC to change how PUD can be used to allow for higher densities within the
Village Neighborhood future land use.
RECOMMENDATION
The Planning Commission recommends:
Motion to recommend approval of the attached resolutions to approve a Comprehensive
Plan amendment related to density, resulting calculations from changes to densities, and
4 | P a g e
the referenced zoning ordinance with findings and conditions as described by staff within
the staff report.
Staff recommends:
Motion to approve staff to prepare an amendment to the Unified Development Code
regarding Planned Unit Developments, density within the Village Neighborhood district,
and other elements as needed to ensure compliance with the 2040 Comprehensive Code.
Attachments
A. Resolution 05-21-24-01 Adopting a Comprehensive Plan Amendment
B. Resolution 05-21-24-02 Authorizing Submittal of a Comprehensive Plan Amendment
C. Proposed Amended 2040 Comprehensive Plan
D. Proposed Amended 2040 Comprehensive Plan – Redlines Only
E. 2040 Comprehensive Plan (Link Only)
F. Proposed Future Land Use Map
G. Future Land Use Map (Link Only)
H. City Council "Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Density and Zoning Discussion”
Packet, May 1, 2024 (Link Only)
I. City Council "Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Density and Zoning Discussion”
Packet, April 16, 2024 (Link Only)
1
CITY OF SCANDIA
WASHINGTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA
RESOLUTION NO. 05-21-24-01
A RESOLUTION ADOPTING A COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT
REGARDING ESTABLISHED FUTURE LAND USES, ESTABLISHED DENSITY
STANDARDS, PRODUCED DENSITY CALCULATIONS, AND REFERENCED
ZONING STANDARDS
WHEREAS, on April 2, 2024, the Scandia Planning Commission held a public hearing
regarding a Comprehensive Plan Amendment regarding established future land uses, established
density standards, produced density calculations, and referenced zoning standards, attached hereto
as Exhibit A (comprehensive plan amendment) that revises and amends the Scandia 2040
Comprehensive Plan; and
WHEREAS, any change to the Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan requires approval of a
comprehensive plan amendment; and,
WHEREAS, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes section 473. 858, the proposed comprehensive
plan amendment was submitted to adjacent governmental units for review and comment on January
31, 2024, and the comment period ended on March 30, 2024, with seven responses; and
WHEREAS, the City conducted a public hearing on April 2, 2024, relative to the adoption
of the proposed comprehensive plan amendment; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has considered the proposed comprehensive plan
amendment and all public comments and thereafter recommended approval of the amendment to
this City Council; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has reviewed the proposed comprehensive plan amendment
and those recommendations, public comments, and comments from adjacent jurisdictions.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of Scandia, Minnesota, as
follows:
The Comprehensive Plan Amendment regarding established future land uses, established
density standards, produced density calculations, and referenced zoning standards attached
hereto is adopted, to take full legal effect as soon as practical under laws of the State of
Minnesota.
2
Adopted by the City Council of the City of Scandia this 21st day of May 2024.
____________________
Christine Maefsky, Mayor
ATTEST:
Kyle Morell, City Administrator
3
EXHIBIT A
City of Scandia
2040 Comprehensive Plan – Volume 1
Approved by Metropolitan Council October 9, 2019
Approved by City of Scandia October 15, 2019, Amended May 21, 2024
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Table of Contents
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. i
Table of Contents
I. Introduction ........................................................................................................................ 1
Purpose of the Plan ............................................................................................... 1
Vision, Goals and Policies ..................................................................................... 1
Background/History of the Community ............................................................... 4
Process ................................................................................................................... 6
Regional Setting .................................................................................................... 6
II. Land Use .............................................................................................................................. 8
Land Use Goals and Objectives ............................................................................. 8
Community Designation ....................................................................................... 9
Forecasts .............................................................................................................. 10
Demographics ...................................................................................................... 12
Existing Land Use ................................................................................................. 16
Future Land Use .................................................................................................. 19
III. Natural Resources ............................................................................................................. 29
Natural Resources Goals and Objectives ............................................................ 29
Aggregate Resources ........................................................................................... 30
Regionally Significant Natural Areas .................................................................. 30
Special Resource Protection ............................................................................... 32
IV. Resilience .......................................................................................................................... 34
Resilience Goals and Policies .............................................................................. 34
Solar ..................................................................................................................... 34
Minnesota GreenStep Cities ............................................................................... 37
V. Economic Competitiveness ............................................................................................... 38
Economic Competitiveness Goals and Objectives ............................................. 38
Employment in Scandia....................................................................................... 39
Income ................................................................................................................. 40
VI. Housing ............................................................................................................................. 42
Housing Goals and Objectives ............................................................................ 42
Existing Housing .................................................................................................. 43
Projected Housing Needs .................................................................................... 49
Affordable Housing Allocation ............................................................................ 50
Housing Implementation Plan ............................................................................ 50
VII. Parks and Trails ................................................................................................................. 53
Parks and Trails Goals and Objectives ................................................................ 53
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Table of Contents
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. ii
Existing Guiding Documents ............................................................................... 54
Metropolitan Council System Statement ........................................................... 55
Stakeholder Perceptions and Recommendations .............................................. 56
Existing Parks and Trails ...................................................................................... 58
Proposed Parks and Trails ................................................................................... 63
Implementation .................................................................................................. 68
Appendices .......................................................................................................... 68
VIII. Transportation .................................................................................................................. 69
Overview ............................................................................................................. 69
Transportation Goals and Objectives ................................................................. 69
Existing Roadway Conditions .............................................................................. 70
Roadway System Plan ......................................................................................... 76
Transit Plan .......................................................................................................... 86
Non-Motorized Transportation Plan .................................................................. 87
Freight Plan .......................................................................................................... 87
Aviation Plan ....................................................................................................... 87
IX. Water Resources ............................................................................................................... 89
Water Resource Goals and Policies .................................................................... 89
Wastewater ......................................................................................................... 89
Surface Water ...................................................................................................... 97
Water Supply ..................................................................................................... 106
X. Implementation .............................................................................................................. 113
Implementation Plan ........................................................................................ 113
Figures
Figure II-A - Community Designation Map....................................................................................... 9
Figure II-B – Proposed Rural Centers ............................................................................................. 11
Figure II-C - Population by Age and Sex ......................................................................................... 12
Figure II-D - Age Distribution ......................................................................................................... 13
Figure II-E – Household Types in Scandia ...................................................................................... 14
Figure II-F – Education Level .......................................................................................................... 15
Figure II-G – Existing Land Use ....................................................................................................... 17
Figure II-H – Planned Land Use ...................................................................................................... 20
Figure II-I – Development Constraints ........................................................................................... 21
Figure III-A - Natural and Special Resources .................................................................................. 31
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Figure IV-A - Solar Potential Map ................................................................................................... 36
Figure V-A - Historical and Projected Employment in Scandia ...................................................... 39
Figure V-B - Employment by Industry ............................................................................................ 40
Figure V-C - Median Household Income ........................................................................................ 40
Figure VI-A – Housing Cost Burden ................................................................................................ 44
Figure VI-B – Age of Housing .......................................................................................................... 45
Figure VI-C – Residential Building Permits ..................................................................................... 45
Figure VI-D – Housing Ownership .................................................................................................. 46
Figure VI-E – Housing Values ......................................................................................................... 47
Figure VI-F - Owner Occupied Units by Value ................................................................................ 48
Figure VI-G – Household Projections ............................................................................................. 49
Figure VII-A - Regional Parks and Trails ......................................................................................... 57
Figure VII-B - Local Parks and Trails ............................................................................................... 60
Figure VII-C – Maintained Easement to State Park ........................................................................ 63
Figure VII-D – Trails Planning Map ................................................................................................. 65
Figure VII-E – Trails Planning Map, Old Village .............................................................................. 66
Figure VII-F - Proposed Local Parks and Trails ............................................................................... 67
Figure VIII-A - Existing Traffic and Crash Data ................................................................................ 71
Figure VIII-B – Roadway Jurisdiction .............................................................................................. 72
Figure VIII-C – Functional Classification ......................................................................................... 74
Figure VIII-D – Local Roadway Gaps ............................................................................................... 78
Figure VIII-E – Transportation Analysis Zones ................................................................................ 81
Figure VIII-F – 2040 Traffic Volumes .............................................................................................. 84
Figure IX-A – Existing Subsurface Sewage Systems ....................................................................... 91
Figure IX-B - Existing Public Wastewater System ........................................................................... 95
Figure IX-C - Watershed Drainage Area ....................................................................................... 100
Figure IX-D - Impaired Waters ..................................................................................................... 104
Figure IX-E - Water Distribution ................................................................................................... 107
Figure IX-F - Water Supply System Interconnections and Management Areas ........................... 109
Figure IX-G – Ground Level Monitoring Wells ............................................................................. 110
Figure IX-H – Surface Water and Groundwater Interaction ........................................................ 111
Figure X-A – Current Zoning Map ................................................................................................ 114
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Tables
Table II-A – Forecasted Population, Housing, & Employment ....................................................... 10
Table II-B – Historical Population, Housing, & Employment .......................................................... 10
Table II-C – Median Age Comparison ............................................................................................. 13
Table II-D – Years Householder Has Lived in Unit, Percent of Total Households .......................... 14
Table II-E – Household Size and Number ....................................................................................... 14
Table II-F– Race of Scandia Residents in 2015 ............................................................................... 15
Table II-G – Existing Land Use ........................................................................................................ 16
Table II-H – Existing Net Residential Density (in Planned Land Use Categories) ........................... 18
Table II-I – Current Residential Allowed Density Ranges ............................................................... 18
Table II-J – Planned Land Use ......................................................................................................... 19
Table II-K – Planned Land Use Net Acres ....................................................................................... 22
Table II-L – Planned Land Use Development Characteristics ......................................................... 22
Table II-M – Residential Density Increase Calculations ................................................................. 27
Table II-N – Commercial/Industrial Increased Density Calculations .............................................. 27
Table II-O – Staging of Future Land Use Units/Jobs/Acres ............................................................ 28
Table III-A – Acreage of Known Deposits ....................................................................................... 30
Table IV-A – Solar Resource Calculations ....................................................................................... 35
Table VI-A – Housing Conditions .................................................................................................... 43
Table VI-B - Households Experiencing Cost Burden ....................................................................... 43
Table VI-C – Household Type ......................................................................................................... 44
Table VI-D – Age Distribution of Owners and Renters ................................................................... 46
Table VI-E – Affordable Housing Allocation ................................................................................... 50
Table VI-F – Housing Implementation ........................................................................................... 51
Table VII-A – Park Amenities by Location ...................................................................................... 62
Table VIII-A – “A” Minor Arterial Roadways .................................................................................. 75
Table VIII-B – Major and Minor Collector Roadways ..................................................................... 76
Table VIII-C – 2040 Scandia TAZ Data ............................................................................................ 82
Table VIII-D – Typical Traffic Capacity by Roadway Type/Configuration – Roadways in Scandia . 83
Table IX-A – Population, Housing, & Employment Sewer Allocation Forecasts ............................ 90
Table IX-B – Waterbodies within Scandia .................................................................................... 102
Table IX-C – CAMP Ratings for Lakes Within Scandia .................................................................. 103
Table IX-D – Impaired Water Bodies in Scandia........................................................................... 105
Table IX-E – Water Bodies Listed on Minnesota’s 303 List .......................................................... 105
Table IX-F – Future Surface Water Improvement Projects .......................................................... 106
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Table X-A – Zoning Districts ......................................................................................................... 115
Table X-B – Overlay Districts ........................................................................................................ 124
Table X-C – 2018 – 2022 Capital Improvement Plan ................................................................... 126
Appendix
Appendix A: Community Survey Results
Appendix B: Focus Group Notes
Appendix C: Comprehensive Trails Master Plan Report
Appendix D: Big Marine Park Reserve Official Map
Appendix E: Access Guidelines
Appendix F: City Ordinance 189 – Governance of Community Sewage Treatment System
Appendix G: Action Plan Worksheets
Appendix H: Full Surface Water Management Plan
Appendix I: Adjacent and Affected Jurisdiction Comments and Responses
Appendix J: Reports and Resolutions
Appendix K: NPDES Permits
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I. INTRODUCTION
A comprehensive plan defines the vision, goals, and aspirations of a community’s long-term
development. A strong plan can intricately shape land use and transportation patterns, develop ways
to conserve natural resources, and identify needs for housing, utilities, parks, and other community
facilities. These assessments then help the community make well-informed decisions on both public
and private infrastructure/facility investments for years to come.
The City of Scandia’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan is the vision of the community in 2040. It
provides an overview of the City of Scandia, including historical context, existing and future land
use, water and nature features, public facilities, transportation, population, housing, and
employment trends and forecasts. The
Comprehensive Plan contains goals,
objectives and policies to guide public and
private land use development,
redevelopment and preservation of all lands
and waters within the City and proposes an
implementation plan extending toward 2040.
These elements have been developed in
conjunction with the City’s tradition of
planning.
Purpose of the Plan
This Comprehensive Plan responds to the requirements of the Metropolitan Land Planning Act:
Minnesota Statutes, Section 473.859, and the Metropolitan Council’s Thrive MSP 2040. The
plan is intended to guide future land use development, redevelopment, and other planning and
policy concerns for the City of Scandia.
Vision, Goals and Policies
1. Vision and Overarching Goals
As a guiding element of this Comprehensive Plan update, the Steering Committee and the
Mayor of Scandia develop the following vision statement:
Scandia is known for its distinctive character and history. The City’s overall vision is to
maintain its rural character typified by the agricultural heritage and natural resources. In
2040, Scandia has an economically vibrant village center, which is home to a diverse
population that is surrounded by mix of natural resource and agricultural areas intermixed
with rural residential and lakeshore neighborhoods. As new development is proposed, the
emphasis will remain on the protection of rural, agricultural and natural resources.
The following four overarching goals for the City of Scandia expanded upon the above vision
and further guided the preparation of this Comprehensive Plan update:
• Maintain and promote the City’s cultural character and history.
Scandia includes several historical structures. The Gammelgarden museum in the Village
Center attracts people to learn about Minnesota history and Swedish immigration to
Minnesota. Rural buildings and sites endowed with Scandia’s history and identity are
preserved or incorporated into development and redevelopment while protecting their
historic integrity, and family farms can still be found within the City.
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• Maintain and promote a variety of land uses and residential densities while
maintaining Scandia’s existing agricultural and rural character.
Scandia has diverse land uses emphasizing its rural nature and natural landscape,
including agriculture, large lot and clustered rural residential housing, wooded areas,
scenic areas and open spaces, and recreational areas. The village center provides a variety
of housing types with community-scale commercial and industrial uses. Agricultural uses
in Scandia include traditional commodity production, smaller farms devoted to local
markets, and hobby farms. The mix of land uses in different parts of the City changes
with the geography, and is preserved and maintained by sound, intentional land use
policies.
• Preserve and protect the City’s natural resources.
Scandia is home to several high quality natural areas, lakes and the St. Croix River. The
City’s parks, trails, open space and recreation system preserves rural character and
protects natural beauty while offering opportunities for healthy lifestyles and recognizes
the City’s history. Sensitivity to the City’s green infrastructure – trails, green corridors,
natural areas and systems, surface and groundwater systems, scenic vistas, and night
skies – will continue to be a priority for all development and infrastructure
improvements. Periodic review of City ordinances to ensure development occurs with
adequate protection of sensitive areas is part of the City’s commitment to preserve and
protect valuable natural resources.
• Provide economic opportunities for residents and businesses.
Economic opportunities in the City continue to evolve. The City will seek solutions to
create economic opportunities for employment in Scandia and to provide needed services
for Scandia’s residents. The number of residents who are self-employed or work from
home will continue to increase. The nature of agriculture will change with a transition
from traditional commodities to smaller, more specialized agricultural operations serving
exclusively local markets.
2. Specific Goals and Policies
Goals and policies are official statements that provide the basis for development and
redevelopment strategies. Goals identify various objectives of the city in managing future
growth and protecting natural resources. Policies represent the official position of the city
with respect to implementation of goals. The general goals for each of the plan elements are
listed below. These goals and the corresponding policies are also included at the beginning
of their respective chapters.
Land Use
1) Preserve the rural, agricultural character of Scandia through zoning regulations,
ordinances, and site design standards
2) Manage land use to prevent the premature demand for extension of urban services
and in ways that allow existing service levels to meet service needs.
3) Ensure a variety of lot sizes to create affordable development opportunities to best
meet the needs of residents and businesses in Scandia.
4) Ensure agricultural uses are part of the community as a viable long-term land use.
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5) Allow for the safe and orderly extraction of aggregate resources now and in the
future while protecting sensitive resources on or near those properties and providing
for transitions to other uses when resource extraction is complete
Natural Resources
1) Protect natural resources and look for opportunities to connect large areas of open
space
2) Preserve high quality natural areas
3) Eliminate, reduce or mitigate the negative effects of invasive species on natural areas
4) Recognize and enhance publicly owned lands and improve public access to such
lands where appropriate.
5) Work with property owners to protect and preserve native, endangered, threatened
and unique plants and animals on privately owned land.
Resilience
1) Encourage the use of renewable, local and diverse forms of energy in order to
increase use of local resources, mitigate the local risk from fossil fuel scarcity and
price increases, and help meet Minnesota’s climate protection goals.
2) Encourage energy efficient housing that exceeds the minimum efficiency levels
required in the State building codes
3) Review the goals of the Minnesota GreenStep Cities Program. Implement GreenStep
Cities Best Practices as appropriate
Economic Competitiveness
1) Concentrate on retaining and expanding local businesses in and around the Village
Center and existing Rural Commercial districts.
2) Actively support the retention and expansion of Scandia community-scale
agricultural operations
3) Encourage home-based entrepreneurs and businesses
4) Expand access to internet services throughout the entire City.
Housing
1) Support a variety of housing types and densities for residential uses in and
surrounding the Village Center and other areas where appropriate.
2) Expand life-cycle housing opportunities for residents at all points of life.
3) Encourage a range of housing choices that fit with the character of the community
Parks and Trails
1) Develop an effective planning approach to developing and maintaining parks and
recreation areas and constructing and maintaining trails and routes to meet the needs
of City residents.
2) Develop a close working relationship with other agencies and groups to enhance the
parks and recreation facilities and develop trails and routes in the City.
3) Support a network of parks and trails to provide community-wide connections to
serve the health and welfare of the City’s residents.
4) Use park search areas and recreational facilities search areas and other natural
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resource information to guide and encourage park acquisition donations and potential
site acquisitions when property becomes available.
Transportation
1) As new development or redevelopment occurs, provide an integrated, internally-
connected, efficient street system connecting village and higher density
neighborhoods to the Village Center.
2) Establish context-sensitive roadway design standards that will protect the narrow and
heavily wooded character of identified low-traffic roadways.
3) Maintain Scandia’s system of local roadways that is well coordinated with MN DOT
and Washington County roadways.
4) Encourage the use of non-automotive modes of transportation.
5) Support the development of regional and local transit options.
6) Preserve the safety of regional air traffic
Water Resources
1) Preserve and protect the quantity and quality of surface water and groundwater.
2) Improve stormwater management and land stewardship practices.
3) Protect the natural and scenic resources of the St. Croix River Corridor, both within
and adjacent to the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway.
4) Ensure financial and environmental accountability for installation, maintenance,
remediation, and management of any permitted private wastewater system.
Background/History of the Community
1. History of the City
The City of Scandia is the site of the first Swedish settlement in Minnesota. Swedish
settlers Carl A. Fernstrom, Oscar Roos, and August Sandahl, arrived by boat at the Log
House Landing on the St Croix River in 1850. They hiked to their homesteads from the St
Croix & established a farm near Hay Lake. A monument inscribed with the names of the
first settlers stands near the site of the original log house, at Hay Lake Historic Corner,
about a mile-and-a-half south of the Scandia Village Center.
Many of the subsequent immigrants, a majority of them Swedish, settled in the area in the
1850’s, among them Nels Johan Johnson. Johnson was instrumental in the founding of
what is now Scandia. According to Anna Engquist’s book, Scandia Then and Now, another
early settler was Olof Olin who came from the province of Medelpad, Sweden. When Olin
arrived, he purchased land that comprised what became the original town of Scandia. Olin
would eventually go on to donate the land for Elim Church and cemetery in 1860, as well
as other locations spread throughout the city. Scandia would eventually grow to incorporate
other neighboring communities such as Copas (originally named Vasa) and Otisville. Now
marked only by a cluster of homes and the memories of older citizens.
The communities of Copas and Otisville formed close to the river but did not last as
permanent villages. Otisville, the community that grew up around the Log House Landing
in the 1850s was named after Henry Otis, a Civil War veteran and the son of Benjamin Otis
and a Native American mother. During the summer he lived in a small cabin on the river
across from Log House Landing. The log house at Log House Landing served as a public
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house during the years of Swedish immigration. From 1912 to the present it has been a
private residence.
Copas grew up just southwest of Otisville. The larger of the two settlements, it was the site
of more commercial development. It lay alongside the railroad tracks, just west of what is
now Highway 95 and once housed a lumberyard, hardware store, mill and elevator, and
potato warehouse, as well as the train station.
Elim Lutheran Church, founded May 19, 1854, was the most significant force in the
community, to the point that outsiders found it hard to see where the church ended, and the
community began. As the State of Minnesota grew, it had relatively little impact on
Scandia in either a social or a cultural sense. Not until the 1930s did Scandia gradually
allow English to take over as the dominant language instead of Swedish.
Starting in 1857 well into the twentieth century, Scandia was home to six schools which
were reflective of the small communities that grew up in what is today’s Scandia. A
number of these communities still identify as unique neighborhoods within the city. In the
northwest part of Scandia was Bone Lake School founded in 1860. The Tin Box or
Sunnyside School founded in 1866 was on the border of Washington and Chisago
Counties. Goose Lake School founded in 1858 was in the northern part of today’s Village
Center. Copas/Vasa School was founded in 1874 in the hamlet of Copas. Hay Lake School
founded in 1857 was just south of where the Swedish monument stands. Big Lake School
founded in 1877 was on the western side of Scandia. The Copas/Vasa School building still
stands, now as a retail gift shop. The Hay Lake School is today a Washington County
Historical Society museum.
As Scandia moved from strictly rural to semi-rural, the city changed. Due to the
Depression, banking moved out of Scandia. Over the years schools were consolidated so
countryside schools were closed. Farms increased in size as industrialized farming took
over, and better roads and state highways replaced the railroad, which eliminated the need
for the station in Copas. As automobiles improved and became common, Scandia residents
began to work jobs in the Twin Cities metropolitan area, and metropolitan residents moved
to Scandia in search of country living.
The formal government of Scandia was first formed in 1893 when New Scandia Township
was organized as a separate entity from Marine Township. Led by an elected town board of
supervisors, and eventually commission, the township remained in control until 1972 when
Scandia adopted the Washington County zoning code by reference. The County retained
final authority in zoning and subdivision matters after review by the Township Planning
Commission and Board until 1998 when the County required townships to provide their
own building inspections.
As a township, Scandia was vulnerable to annexation by surrounding cities and could not
control land use to the extent the town desired. On January 1, 2007, New Scandia
Township was incorporated as the City of Scandia. The first meeting of the new City
Council was held on January 2, 2007. The City of Scandia adopted its first Comprehensive
Plan on March 17, 2009.
2. Notable features and character of the community
Scandia is known for its rural setting and history. The historic village center remains,
including Elim Lutheran Church. The Scandia Community Center and the Gammelgarden
Museum are the centers of social community activities. Gammelgarden attracts people to
learn about Minnesota history and enjoy Swedish immigrant culture. Structures in the
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village are recognizable from old photos, and family farms can still be found within the
city. Rural commercial centers marking the sites of historic settlements still exist at Copas
on Highway 95 and near the Big Lake community on County Road 15.
3. Natural resources and geographic features
Scandia is home to several lakes and high quality wetlands. The St. Croix River runs along
the east boundary of the City. Scandia also includes many areas of prime agricultural land.
Process
Descriptive data about the City of Scandia was gathered through a variety of sources. These
data identified community assets, weaknesses, values, goals, and basic demographics of the
City.
• A series of public meetings and open houses was held between January 2017 and June
2018 to review the various issues addressed within the Comprehensive Plan.
• A survey was mailed to each household in the summer of 2017. The survey was also
available in online. The survey was partially funded by the Statewide Health
Improvement Partnership through a grant that was given to investigate and improve the
access to healthy food in the area. Questions in the survey asked basic demographic data
of the respondent, community assets and weaknesses, visions for the future, food access,
and investment priorities. Approximately 391 responses were collected, accounting for
about 20% of households in Scandia. Survey responses are provided in Appendix A.
• An interactive website was developed and remained active from January 2017 to
December 2018. Residents could view the previous 2030 land use plan and stay informed
about all public meetings and events regarding the comprehensive plan. All material from
steering committee meetings, open houses and Planning Commission discussions were
provided online.
• A steering committee was formed to inform the overall comprehensive process, engage a
full spectrum of the community from youth to seniors, and guide policy goals and
recommendations. The committee was comprised of key community leaders from public,
private, and government spheres. The committee met three times throughout the
comprehensive planning process.
• Three focus groups were held in June 2017 to gain perspectives and gather information
and insights from key stakeholders in the community. One group consisted of residents
who were 55 years old or older, another group represented businesses and the agricultural
community in Scandia, and the third consisted of students from Scandia Elementary
School. The format for each of the three groups was the same; the moderator asked
questions about the positive aspects of the City of Scandia, what the community is
missing, and what you would like to see in the city in 20 years. Focus groups also
brainstormed “big ideas” for the city, or what would you do in Scandia if there were no
restrictions. These results are summarized in Appendix B.
• Information about the Goals, Policies, and Recommendations section came from previous
comprehensive plans, the 2017 survey, Commission/Steering Committee Discussions,
public hearings, and review by adjacent communities and the Metropolitan Council.
Regional Setting
Scandia is located on roughly 39.7 square miles (25,425 acres) in Washington County. It is
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served by four A-minor arterial roads, TH 97, TH 95, CSAH 3, and CSAH 15; one major
collector, CSAH 1; and three minor collectors, CR 15A, CR 52, and CR 50/192nd Street. The
city neighbors Forest Lake, Hugo, May Township, and Marine on St. Croix within Washington
County, Chisago Lake Township and Franconia Township to the north in Chisago County, and
Farmington Township across the St. Croix River in Wisconsin.
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II. LAND USE
Land Use Goals and Objectives
Goal: Preserve the rural, agricultural character of Scandia through zoning regulations,
ordinances, and site design standards
Objectives:
• Conduct development in a manner that is sensitive to the impact upon natural
features and to environmental constraints, including but not limited to scenic
views, surface water, wetlands, slopes, woodlands, vegetation, drainage ways,
shorelands, and flood plain areas.
• Coordinate with property owners, other governmental units and agencies, and
developers to protect high quality natural areas and historic resources
• Encourage low-impact development techniques in new developments.
• Explore programs and development concepts that encourage creative methods to
preserve rural character and natural resources.
• Achieve compatible relationships between different types of land uses by utilizing
design standards, appropriate buffers, land use transitions and high-quality design
Goal: Manage land use to prevent the premature demand for extension of urban services and in
ways that allow existing service levels to meet service needs.
Objectives:
• Require that land proposed for development is served or will be able to be served
with adequate infrastructure, including sewage treatment systems, streets, and
storm water management systems.
• Require all new development be consistent with the Comprehensive Plan
Goal: Ensure a variety of lot sizes to create affordable development opportunities to best meet
the needs of residents and businesses in Scandia.
Objectives:
• Encourage greater density where appropriate to preserve natural features and areas.
• Ensure suitable land is available for potential commercial and industrial
employment and business opportunities.
Goal: Ensure agricultural uses are part of the community as a viable long-term land use.
Objectives:
• Encourage a variety of agricultural operations, including small-scale metropolitan
orientated agriculture, value-added production, and small scale agricultural-related
commercial uses.
• Encourage participation in the Agricultural Preserves Program through compatible
zoning districts and educational materials and resources
• Review current development regulations to allow compatible secondary uses such
as low density residential, commercial recreation, and agriculture-related
commercial in areas where agriculture is the predominant use.
Goal: Allow for the safe and orderly extraction of aggregate resources now and in the future
while protecting sensitive resources on or near those properties and providing for transitions to
other uses when resource extraction is complete.
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Objectives:
• Implement performance standards for the management of existing mining
operations in order to minimize or prevent negative impacts to resources and
nearby land uses.
Community Designation
According to the Metropolitan Council, Scandia is designated as Diversified Rural in the
Metropolitan Area. Communities that are part of this designation contain a variety of
agricultural and non-agricultural land uses. These areas both protect rural, agricultural lands
while offering potential for future development. On average, development density in
Diversified Rural areas average to 4 units/40 acres. In the future, Diversified Rural
communities could face land use incompatibilities should future development occur and
urbanization expand. Some communities with the Diversified Rural designation are included in
the long-term service area expiation of the wastewater system from the Metropolitan Council,
but Scandia is not within that extension.
Figure II-A - Community Designation Map
While the Diversified Rural designation accurately describes the character and future vision for
much of the city, it does not meet all of Scandia’s needs or goals. Since the adoption of the last
Comprehensive Plan, it has become evident there is a need and desire to focus development in
specific areas of the city to both preserve agricultural and open spaces while fostering a sense
Source: Metropolitan Council
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of community and supporting both residential and commercial/economic development. To
achieve this, one area of the City of Scandia has been proposed to be designated as Rural
Center, shown in Figure II-B.
Rural Centers are local commercial, employment, and residential activity centers serving rural
areas in the region. The proposed Rural Center in Scandia is surrounded by agricultural lands
and serves as the center of commerce to surrounding farmlands and the accompanying
population. Rural Centers are expected to plan for higher-density commercial uses and
compatible higher-density residential land uses to ensure efficient uses of existing infrastructure
investments.
The proposed Rural Center already serves as a residential and commercial hub for the City of
Scandia and the region. Changing the Community Designation to Rural Centers acknowledges
the role this area already serves. This area will be guided for higher density development and
redevelopment, including residential, commercial, and retail, making use of existing
infrastructure and services in this location. This creates more opportunities for connected
neighborhoods and commercial centers while preserving large, contiguous areas of Scandia for
open space, agriculture, and outdoor recreational uses.
Forecasts
As of 2015, approximately 3,896 people lived in Scandia in roughly 1,518 households.
Projected populations, households, and employment are detailed in Table II-A, and historical
populations, households and employment are provided in Table II-B.
Table II-A – Forecasted Population, Housing, & Employment
2010 2015 2020 2030 2040
Population 3,934 3,896 4,260 4,630 4,950
Households 1,498 1,518 1,700 1,910 2,100
Employment 519 540 620 690 730
Source: Metropolitan Council and American Community Survey
Table II-B – Historical Population, Housing, & Employment
1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2015
Population 1,513 2,858 3,197 3,692 3,934 3,896
Households 408 851 1,060 1,294 1,498 1,518
Employment 40 50 387 272 519 540
Source: US Census
Scandia experienced rapid population growth throughout the 1970s, increasing the city’s total
population 89% in 10 years, providing an average of 8-9% annual growth. Many factors
contributed to Scandia’s growth between 1970 and 1980, including the completion of Interstate
35, improvement of county and state highways, inexpensive land, conversion of seasonal cabins
to year-round homes, and an influx of urbanites in search of a rural lifestyle. This also fueled
residential development, increasing the number of households in Scandia at similar rates. From
1980 to 1990, Scandia saw continued growth, averaging about 3% annual population growth.
Previous to this period of growth, Scandia’s population was relatively stable if not declining,
shifting from 941 in 1930 to 899 in 1950 as farm residents moved to more urban areas.
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Figure II-B – Proposed Rural Centers
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Population growth in Scandia has gradually slowed in more recent decades. From 1990 to 2000,
the population in Scandia grew 15% and only grew 6.5% from 2000 to 2010. Population
projections continue growth into 2040; the City of Scandia is anticipated to add about 1,000
more residents by 2040. Likewise, the number of anticipated households is anticipated to grow,
but at a much lower rate than previously experienced. However, this will be influenced by the
average number of persons per household, which has been decreasing region wide.
While population and household saw the most growth between 1970 and 1980, employment in
Scandia saw major growth between 1980 and 1990. Employment projections through 2040
show an average growth rate of 11% per decade, keeping pace with modest population
projections. The ability of the City of Scandia to accommodate more employment will depend
on the availability of services, expansion of mixed uses and commercial zoning areas, and
flexible use of agricultural land to meet future market demands.
Demographics
1. Age
Figure II-C shows the population of Scandia in 2015 separated by sex and age cohorts. The
population of Scandia trends to be considerably older than the region. The dominant age
groups within Scandia are 55 to 59 years old at roughly 13% of the population and 60 to 64
years old at 12% of the population. The number of youth in Scandia (under 20 years old) is
also low, representing about 21% of the total population. Figure II-D details the age
distribution of Scandia residents in 2015.
Figure II-C - Population by Age and Sex
Source: 2011-2015 American Community Survey
8%6%4%2%0%2%4%6%8%
Under 5
5 to 9
10 to 14
15 to 19
20 to 24
25 to 29
30 to 34
35 to 39
40 to 44
45 to 49
50 to 54
55 to 59
60 to 64
65 to 69
70 to 74
75 to 79
80 to 84
Over 85
Scandia Population Estimates by Age and Gender, 2015
Female
Male
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 13
Figure II-D - Age Distribution
Comparing the median age in Scandia to surrounding municipalities and the State, Scandia
is considerably older with a median age of 51.7 years. Median ages of nearby
municipalities can be seen in Table II-C. The only community near Scandia with a similar
age distribution and median age is Marine on St. Croix. Stillwater has a median age 11.2
years younger and Forest Lake 14.5 years younger. Washington County as well has a
younger median average by 12.8 years and Minnesota as a whole is lower by 14 years.
Table II-C – Median Age Comparison
Municipality Median Age Difference from Scandia
Scandia 51.7 -
Marine on St. Croix 51.5 0.2
Stillwater 40.5 11.2
Forest Lake 37.2 14.5
Washington County 38.9 12.8
Minnesota 37.7 14.0
Source: 2011-2015 American Community Survey
2. Housing Tenure
Scandia residents have a history of living in the community for several years. In 2015, over
62% of residents lived in their homes for more than 15 years. The largest group of
householders had lived in their house for 6 to 15 years (about 32% of all householders).
Scandia has higher proportions of residents living in their home for over 15 years,
compared to the average for Washington County, shown in Table II-D.
4.5%4.0%
4.7%
7.6%
4.9%
3.9%
3.3%3.5%
5.9%5.6%
9.9%
12.8%
12.1%
6.6%6.8%
2.2%
1.4%
0.4%
0%
2%
4%
6%
8%
10%
12%
14%
Un
d
e
r
5
5 t
o
9
10
t
o
1
4
15
t
o
1
9
20
t
o
2
4
25
t
o
2
9
30
t
o
3
4
35 t
o
3
9
40
t
o
4
4
45
t
o
4
9
50
t
o
5
4
55 t
o
5
9
60
t
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6
4
65
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9
70
t
o
7
4
75
t
o
7
9
80
t
o
8
4
Ov
e
r
8
5
Age Distribution, 2015
Source: 2011-2015 American Community Survey
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
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Table II-D – Years Householder Has Lived in Unit, Percent of Total Households
Years in Unit Scandia Washington County
1-5 years 6.3% 16.3%
6-15 years 31.8% 43.1%
16-25 years 25.3% 21.5%
26-35 years 19.2% 9.4%
36 years + 17.5% 9.7%
Source: 2011-2015 American Community Survey
3. Household Size and Number
As shown in Table II-A – Forecasted Population, Housing, & Employment, there were
approximately 1,476 households in Scandia in 2015. The number of households is
projected to increase into 2040. The number of households in Scandia has increased at a
rate greater than the population for the last 45 years. This is due in part to the gradual
decrease in the average number of persons per household, which is noted in Table II-E. The
average number of persons per household is also influenced by age and general socio-
economic status of Scandia residents.
Table II-E – Household Size and Number
Year 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2015
Number of Households 408 851 1,060 1,294 1,498 1,476
Persons per Household 3.87 3.36 3.02 2.84 2.61 2.61
Household type also influences the average number of persons per household. In 2015, the
majority of households in Scandia consisted of families without children, shown in Figure
II-E. Approximately 20% of all households in Scandia have children, which aligns with
Community Survey responses (See Appendix A). The large percentage of families without
children is atypical; about 36% of households in Washington County are families without
children.
Figure II-E – Household Types in Scandia
63%11%
17%
6%
3%
Household Type in Scandia, 2015
Families without children
Lived alone
Married families with
children
Non-family households
Unmarried families with
children
Source: Metropolitan Council Tabulation of 2011-2015 American Community Survey
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
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4. Race/Ethnicity of Population
Table II-F shows the racial composition of Scandia residents in 2015. About 97% of
Scandia’s population identified as “White alone,” with all other racial groups made up the
remaining 3% of the population. About 8% of the city’s population identified as Hispanic
or Latino. American Community Survey data for 2011-2015 are estimates, meaning the
margin of error, especially for small sample sizes, is high. As a comparison, only 1% of the
city’s population identified as Hispanic or Latino in the 2010 census.
Table II-F– Race of Scandia Residents in 2015
Race Percent of Population
White 97.2%
Black 0.7%
American Indian/Alaskan Native 0.9%
Asian 0%
Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander 0%
Some Other Race 0.4%
Two or More Races 0.8%
Source: American Community Survey, 2011-2015
5. Education
Scandia residents are becoming increasingly educated. Since 2000, the number of Scandia
residents age 25 and older with some level of college education has increased while the
number of residents with a high school education or less has decreased.
7%
32%
24%
8%
20%
8%
3%
28%
24%
13%
23%
9%
0%5%10%15%20%25%30%35%
Did not graduate high school
High school graduate
Some college, no degree
Associate degree
Bachelor degree
Graduate/professional degree
Highest Level of Education Obtained in Scandia
2015 2000
Figure II-F – Education Level
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 16
Summary
• Scandia has an older population than the rest of Washington County. The ability of the city
and the County to provide services will impact the ability of residents to age in place.
• Scandia has a large number of two-person households, which is likely attributed to the large
number of older residents. Only 1 in 5 homes in Scandia has children, which will impact
schools, services, and future population growth of the city.
• Scandia’s population remains fairly homogenous, though the number of residents identifying
as Hispanic/Latino has increased.
• Residents are becoming increasingly educated, which may influence the desired types of
employment and median household incomes.
Existing Land Use
A large portion of land in the City of Scandia is currently undeveloped, about 41% of total
acreage in the city. The most prominent land use in the city is agriculture, making up about a
quarter of land in Scandia. Open water makes up 13% of land in Scandia, and residential uses
make up about 10% of the city’s total land. Figure II G shows the existing land uses in the City.
Table II-G further details current land use in Scandia.
Table II-G – Existing Land Use
Land Use Gross Acres Percent of Total
Agricultural 6,425.5 25%
Extractive1 197 1%
Farmstead 218.7 1%
Golf Course 17 0.07%
Industrial and Utility 11 0.04%
Institutional 46.6 0.2%
Mixed Use Residential 13 0.05%
Multifamily 3 0.01%
Open Water 3,252 12.8%
Park, Recreational, or Preserve 2,147 8%
Railway 73 0.3%
Retail and Other Commercial 34.8 0.1%
Seasonal/Vacation 70.7 0.3%
Single Family Attached 9.5 0.04%
Single Family Detached 2,610 10.3%
Undeveloped 10,347 41%
Total 25,475 100%
Source: Metropolitan Council Data, 2016
1 Extractive includes areas that identified on an aerial photo as currently mined or mined in the past.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 17
Figure II-G – Existing Land Use
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 18
Table II-H identifies the number of existing housing units in each land use category.
Table II-H – Existing Net Residential Density (in Planned Land Use Categories)
Planned Land Use
Category
Single
Family
Number
of Units
Multi-
Family
Number
of Units
Acres
Gross
Residential
Acres Development
Constraints
(wetlands, parks,
ROW, etc.)
Net
Residential
Acres
Net Density
Units/Acre
A B C D E=C-D (A+B)/E
Agricultural Core 229 0 6,953 731 6,221 0.04
General Rural 881 30 9,679 1,232 8,447 0.11
Rural Mixed Use 110 0 419 150 269 0.41
St. Croix River District 60 0 681 114 567 0.11
Village Neighborhood 133 0 1,480 150 1,330 0.10
Village Mixed Use 65 0 287 18 269 0.24
Recreation Area
Protected 10 0 2,132 1,566 567 0.02
Total 1,488 30 21,632 3,962 17,671 0.09
Source: Washington County Parcel Data
In October of 2022, Scandia adopted a new Unified Development Code to replace the existing
zoning and subdivision ordinances. With this change, districts have been renamed and
modified. Scandia’s Unified Development Code, which includes both zoning and subdivision
standards. Any references within this document to the zoning ordinance or subdivision
ordinance, shall be considered the same as a reference to the Unified Development Code. Based
on these requirements, Table II-I shows the number of housing units per acre that can be
developed under current zoning regulations. These densities are anticipated to remain the same
in corresponding future land uses. Most large lot residential zoning districts require lots to be a
minimum of two acres, and all zoning districts have a maximum lot coverage of 25%. Bonus
densities in the Village Neighborhood District allow up to one dwelling unit per acre. This is
done to make efficient use of existing resources in Village Neighborhood and to guide
residential development to these areas to help preserve agricultural lands and open spaces from
development.
Table II-I – Current Residential Allowed Density Ranges
Future Land Use Category Units/Acres
Agriculture Core 4/40
General Rural 4/40
Village Mixed Use 5/40 or 5/1*
Village Neighborhood 4/40 or 1/1.5*
St. Croix River District 4/40
Agricultural Preserve 1/40
*Densities only available if conditions established in the adopted zoning and subdivision ordinance are met
When density is regulated by a ratio that references 40 acres, those 40 acres shall be the area
defined by the Public Land Survey as Quarter-Quarter Sections. Until sewer improvements are
made, zoning in the Rural Mixed Use area will remain Rural Residential General.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 19
The zoning code for the City of Scandia provides a maximum lot coverage for commercial and
industrial development. The Metropolitan Council has provided estimates for the number of
employees per square feet in various employment types; rates range from 556 square feet per
job at the low end (medical clinics) to 2,500 square feet per job at the high end (hotels). Using
the city’s lot coverage allowance as guidance, an estimate of jobs/square foot can be estimated
to project future employment based on future land use designations and planned development.
The Village – Historic Core District allows a maximum lot coverage of 80 percent. The Village
Center District allows a maximum lot coverage of 35 percent. The Rural Commercial District,
and Industrial Park District both allow a maximum lot coverage of 65 percent.
Future Land Use
The 2040 Land Use Map (Figure II-H) shows the desired land use for all property in Scandia.
Table II-J summarizes the planned land uses by category shown on the map. The planned future
land uses shown on this map reflect previous community planning efforts as well as desired
updates identified as part of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update process.
Table II-J – Planned Land Use
Land Use Gross Acres Percent of Total Area
Agricultural Core 6,953 27%
General Rural 9,679 38%
Mining 443 1.7%
Rural Commercial 75 0.3%
Rural Mixed Use 419 1.6%
St. Croix River District 681 2.7%
Village Neighborhood 1,480 5.8%
Village Mixed Use 287 1.1%
Recreation Area Protected 2,132 8.4%
Open Water 3,252 12.8%
Railway 73 0.3%
Total 25,475 100%
Future land use designations were determined by a variety of factors, including an analysis of
existing land use, the current land use plan, and development constraints. Factors impacting
development include:
• Existing regional parks, Wildlife Management Areas, and Scenic and Natural Areas;
• Steep slopes;
• Wetlands and waterbodies;
• Roads, railroads, and the Regional Bike Trail Network;
• Shoreland and flood plain;
• Agricultural Preserves; and
• Prime farmland.
Figure II-I maps development constraints in the City of Scandia
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
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Figure II-H – Planned Land Use
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
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Figure II-I – Development Constraints
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
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Table II-K summarizes the developable land available by decade in future land uses
classifications. Non-developable land includes areas that cannot be developed, such as
wetlands, steep slopes, and the road right-of-way, as well as existing development.
Development is forecasted for each decade at existing land use densities, adding to the amount
of non-developable land in each land use. Forecasted development is based on projected
housing and employment needs (as projected in Table II-B, Forecasted Population, Households
and Employment), minimum lot sizes by each land use district and an anticipated allocation of
the projected housing development between each of the land use districts. The planned future
land uses shown on this map reflect previous community planning efforts as well as desired
updates identified as part of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update process.
Table II-K – Planned Land Use Net Acres
Planned Land Use
Category
2015 (Current) 2020 2030 2040
De
v
e
l
o
p
a
b
l
e
No
n
-
De
v
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De
v
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e
No
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-
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e
No
n
-
De
v
e
l
o
p
a
b
l
e
Acres Acres Acres Acres Acres Acres Acres Acres
Agricultural Core 5688 1265 5588 1365 5488 1465 5388 1565
General Rural 6121 3559 5710 3969 5310 4369 4903 4776
Mining 262 181 262 181 262 181 262 181
St. Croix River District 296 385 206 475 106 575 6 675
Rural Commercial 45 30 44 32 42 34 41 35
Rural Mixed Use 269 150 269 150 269 150 195 224
Village Mixed Use 125 162 109 178 88 199 67 220
Village Neighborhood 1,080 400 780 700 430 1,050 200 1,280
Open Water 0 3,252 0 3,252 0 3,252 0 3,252
Recreation Area Protected 0 2132 0 2132 0 2132 0 2132
Railway 0 73 0 73 0 73 0 73
Total 13,887 11,589 12,968 12,507 11,995 13,480 11,062 14,413
To meet projected housing needs, it is anticipated homes will be developed in the following
percentages in each respective land use district.
Table II-L – Planned Land Use Development Characteristics
Land Use Percent of Anticipated Housing Units
Agricultural Core 5%
General Rural 21%
Rural Mixed Use 5%
St. Croix River District 5%
Village Neighborhood 60.4%
Village Mixed Use 3.4%
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 23
The following land use descriptions will be used for planning purposes and correspond to the
planned land use designations on the Planned Land Use Map.
a) Agricultural Core
The Agricultural Core district is established to protect and preserve land for long-term
agricultural production. Over time, the nature of agricultural production in Scandia will
most likely change from traditional dairy farms to specialty agriculture and agriculture
production for local/metropolitan markets. Residential development compatible with
agriculture uses (4 per 40 density) and parks will be a secondary land use in this
district. This designation corresponds with the Agricultural Core zoning district in the
current zoning ordinance. The City’s zoning and subdivision ordinance should allow
density bonuses of up to 75% for single-family developments if providing community
value through agricultural land protection, life-cycle housing, natural resource
protection or other amenities.
b) General Rural
The General Rural area land use category is a residential area of mixed lot sizes. It
recognizes areas of Scandia that have been developed in the past at densities of ten acre
or less and areas that have larger parcels still used for agriculture. The area includes 10-
acre parcels, but also a number of existing smaller parcels and some parcels enrolled in
the Agricultural Preserves Program. Single-family residential dwellings are the primary
land use for the General Rural area at densities of 4 units per 40 acres in the same
Quarter-Quarter Section. Secondary land uses include agricultural production,
including small-scale production, parks and recreation, and public and private
institutions. Recreational commercial uses are allowed as a conditional use. This
designation corresponds with the Rural Residential General and Rural Residential
Neighborhood District in the current zoning ordinance. The City’s zoning and
subdivision ordinance should allow density bonuses of up to 75% for single-family
developments if providing community value through agricultural land protection, life-
cycle housing, natural resource protection or other amenities.
c) Village Mixed Use
This land use category recognizes the significant contribution of the existing village
center to the overall character of the community. New commercial, retail, and
residential activity will be encouraged in order to develop and redevelop areas in the
village center while maintaining the historic nature of the village center. Primary land
uses in the Village Mixed Use area include commercial, office, retail, public and
private institutions, civic buildings, light industrial, and parks and recreation.
Residential uses, including single family homes, townhouses and multi-family
buildings, will be a secondary use. Multi-family buildings in the village center will
achieve the goal of diversifying the housing options for younger families, seniors, and
singles. Future lot sizes will be similar to the existing mix of lot sizes in the village
center. In order to support these relatively small lot sizes, community sewer systems
are anticipated. This designation corresponds with the Village-Historic Core and
Village Center Districts, in the current zoning ordinance. Higher densities up to five
units per acre may be permitted depending on the ability of the site and/or system to
manage wastewater. The City’s zoning and subdivision ordinance should allow density
bonuses of up to 75% for single-family developments if providing community value
through agricultural land protection, life-cycle housing, natural resource protection or
other amenities. This is consistent with existing multi-unit developments like Oakhill
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
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Cottages. While exact proportions of uses will be dependent on development, it is
anticipated the Village Mixed Use District will have roughly 60 percent
commercial/office/retail uses and 40 percent residential uses.
d) Village Neighborhood
The Village Neighborhood area is a planned extension of the existing Village Center,
located adjacent to and north and west of the Village Center. This land use category
designates a growth area surrounding the village and is intended to support single and
multi-family residential uses on lot sizes reflective of the existing village lot sizes. This
corresponds with the Village Neighborhood District in the current zoning ordinance.
The primary land use for the Village Neighborhood area will be small-lot, single-
family residential uses. Public and private institutions, civic buildings, and parks and
recreation uses will also be allowed. Townhomes and multi-family units will be
allowed as an incentive for providing community value through agricultural land
protection, life-cycle housing, or natural resource protection. New development in the
Village Neighborhood District will be at a density of 4 units per 40 acres in the same
Quarter-Quarter Section. By concentrating development in the Village Neighborhood
area, the City of Scandia hopes to protect agricultural and natural resource areas from
development pressure. Higher densities up to one unit per 1.5 acre may be permitted
through Planned Unit Developments on a case by case basis, depending on the land use
intensity and at the discretion of the City Council. The City’s zoning and subdivision
ordinance should allow density bonuses of up to 75% for single-family developments if
providing community value through agricultural land protection, life-cycle housing,
natural resource protection or other amenities. This is consistent with existing multi-
unit developments like the Oakhill Cottages.
e) Rural Commercial
The Rural Commercial future land use area is intended to support commercial
development in places of historic commercial activity. These areas are the only
commercial areas anticipated outside of the Village Center and are intended to
complement Village Center commercial uses. Rural Commercial areas are designated at
the historic commercial nodes of the Big Marine Store, Copas/Abrahamson Nurseries,
and the intersection of Highways 95 and 97. Commercial uses reflecting the historic
nature of the community and compatible with the surrounding rural character will be
allowed on lot sizes of at least 2 acres. Because this future land use area builds upon
historic character, commercial building design standards shall reflect the historic nature
of the community. This corresponds with the Rural Commercial District in the current
zoning ordinance.
f) Rural Mixed Use
The Rural Mixed Use area is located to the west of Big Marine Lake. This is a new
land use category and is intended to allow for single-family residential development
connected to the Big Marine Store rural commercial area. Single family residential
would be at a maximum density of 4 units per 40 acres. Some civic buildings, small
commercial, and parks and recreation uses will also be allowed. It is anticipated the
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
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Rural Mixed Use District will have roughly 85 percent residential uses and 15 percent
commercial or civic uses.
Improvements to the existing community system are necessary to permit higher density
in this area. Until that occurs, new development will be limited in this area. The City of
Scandia’s Unified Development Code includes lack of adequate sewage treatment
systems as a condition of premature development within the City, which shall not be
approved by City Council. Until the sewer is improved, the current Rural Residential
General zoning district will remain in place, preserving land at residential densities of 4
units per 40 acres to be consistent with the Diversified Rural community designation.
Upgrades and improvements to the community system will occur alongside new
development in the area. The presence of wetlands and the additional regulations of the
shoreland overlay district, which covers many parcels in this area of the City, will
likely be constraining factors for both new development and sewer improvements.
However, it is the intention of the City of Scandia to encourage development and
higher densities in this area once improvements to the community sewer are made. To
that end, the City will work to amend the zoning ordinance and comprehensive plan as
needed to implement higher densities and land use once the infrastructure is sufficient.
g) St. Croix River District
The St. Croix River District recognizes the unique historical and natural resource
aspects of the floodplain and bluffs of the shoreland area of the St. Croix River. This
area includes historic crossroad and seasonal home communities, parkland, river
access, and areas protected under scenic easements held by the National Park Service.
The mapped area east of State Highway 95 corresponds to land areas protected under
federal wild and scenic river designation. The future of this area includes limited
residential development that protects the natural and scenic shoreland areas, and public
and private protected lands. This corresponds with the Lower St. Croix River Corridor
Overlay District in the current zoning ordinance.
New development in the St. Croix River District will be at a density of 4 units per 40
acres. Smaller lots may be permitted through the use of open space conservation
subdivisions but may not exceed maximum densities. Viewsheds should be considered
and protected in the siting of structures and driveways.
h) Recreation Area Protected
The Recreation Area Protected land use category includes publicly owned lands
permanently protected from development. This designation recognizes that these areas
will continue to be used for recreation or open space only and not developed. If
recreation facilities are developed within these areas, priority natural resource areas
shall be protected. In addition, priority natural resources should be restored and
enhanced wherever possible within protected recreation areas. This designation
corresponds with the Agricultural Preserves, Agricultural Core, and Rural Residential
General Districts in the zoning ordinance.
i) Mining
The Mining area includes areas in the City of Scandia with active, permitted mining
operations. Mining activity is anticipated to continue in these areas in the future.
Mining uses must comply with local and state extractive use regulations and
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
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reclamation shall restore the topography and natural resources of the site to a level such
that the land is suitable for the planned future land uses such as agriculture or
residential. This corresponds with the Aggregate Mining Overlay District in the current
zoning ordinance.
The following overlay district will also guide land uses in specific, sensitive areas:
• Agriculture Preserves Overlay District (AP)
The Agricultural Preserves Overlay plans for the continuation of the Agricultural Preserves
Program is Scandia. This overlay is intended to encourage the continuation of agriculture
through ensuring the availability of the Program to qualifying agricultural landowners.
The Agricultural Preserves Overlay lies over the primary agricultural future land use area,
the Agricultural Core Area. The Agricultural Preserves Overlay allows individual property
owners within Scandia to continue to participate in the Agricultural Preserves Program.
This voluntary program for landowners within the seven-county metropolitan area allows
individuals to place their properties under a restrictive covenant committing their property
to agricultural use in exchange for certain benefits. These benefits include a special tax rate
calculated based on agricultural value rather than market value, a property tax credit,
protection of normal farm practices, and protection against special assessments for public
improvement projects.
While the underlying zoning district (Agricultural Core Area) allows four dwellings per 40
acres, parcels enrolled in the Agricultural Preserves Program and located within the
Agricultural Preserves Overlay shall be allowed only 1 unit per 40 acres per program
requirements.
Additional details on the corresponding zoning districts are included on Table X-A in the
Implementation chapter.
1. Density Calculations
Based on the above future land use plan and land use calculations, residential and
commercial land use requirements have been calculated to help Scandia plan for and meet
Metropolitan Council projections for population, households, and employment. Residential
calculations are detailed in Table II-M and commercial calculations are detailed in
Table II-N.
Residential
To meet forecasted 2040 population and household projections, the City of Scandia will
need to add 582 housing units by 2040. These calculations show the number of acres
needed to accommodate all needed housing units in each zoning district. Residential
development is anticipated to take place in all residential zoning districts in an orderly
manner consistent with the staging plan, discussed below. These calculations do not include
any density bonuses which may be allowed per the Unified Development Code through
special approvals such as Planned Unit Developments. Actual acreage needed to
accommodate future households and their locations will be influenced by market forces.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
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Table II-M – Residential Density Increase Calculations
Future Land Use
Permitting Residential Use
Density
(Units/Acre)
Desired
Distribution
Number of
Households
Acres
Needed
Current (2015)
Developable Acres
Agricultural Core 4/40 5% 30 300 5,688
General Rural 4/40 21% 122 1,220 6,121
St. Croix River Corridor 4/40 5% 29 290 296
Rural Mixed Use 4/40 5% 7 73 269
Village Neighborhood 4/40 7.8% 44 440 1,080 1/1.5 55% 308 462
Village Mixed Use 5/1 3.4% 20 4 125
Total 100% 560 2,789 13,889
Commercial
To meet forecasted 2040 employment projections, the City of Scandia will need to add 190
jobs by 2040. These calculations show the number of acres needed to accommodate all
needed new jobs in each zoning district. Based on guided land use and available
developable acres, Scandia has sufficient available vacant land to meet employment
projections based on development in the Village Mixed Use (commercial/industrial) Rural
Commercial, and Rural Mixed Use (both commercial) districts. Actual acreage needed to
accommodate jobs will greatly depend on the types of businesses starting or expanding in
Scandia. These calculations also do not include remote telecommuting, home occupations,
or permitted employment opportunities in agricultural zoning districts, all of which will
influence the number of acres needed to accommodate employment in Scandia.
Table II-N – Commercial/Industrial Increased Density Calculations
Zoning
Districts
Density Range
(Jobs/Acre) Desired
Distribution
Number
of Jobs
Minimum
Acres
Maximum
Acres
Current (2015)
Developable
Acres Minimum Maximum
Village
Mixed Use 14 62.4 60% 114 1.8 8.1 125
Rural
Commercial 11.4 50.7 30% 57 1.1 5 46
Rural
Mixed Use 11.4 50.7 10% 19 0.4 1.7 269
Total - - 100% 190 3.3 14.8 440
2. Staged Development or Redevelopment
The goal of a Staging Plan is to manage growth and guide the orderly and cost-effective
provision of infrastructure at a rate that is consistent with forecasted growth, at the same
time responding appropriately to market conditions. Table II-O identifies the staging of
future growth in Scandia. This table indicates the anticipated timing and sequence of
growth. It identifies the developable acres, number of housing units and jobs that may be
developed in each 10-year planning period. The table is not intended to limit or to compel
growth in any specific area within the planning period. Rather, it is an estimation of where
growth may logically occur.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
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A staging plan cannot force development to occur but can be used as a tool to guide
development appropriately. In many cases, cities choose to stage and time growth in an
orderly and contiguous manner; however, there is nothing about adopting a staged growth
plan that forces any private property owner to sell or develop their land before they wish to
do so. The City of Scandia will make development decisions based on existing and
development of new infrastructure, land capacity and market conditions.
Table II-O – Staging of Future Land Use Units/Jobs/Acres
Outside Urban
Service Area
Average Density
Range Housing
Existing
Developable
(2015)
2020 2030 2040
Residential Units/Acre Acres Units Acres Units Acres Units Acres
Agricultural Core 0.1 5,688 10 100 10 100 10 100
General Rural 0.1 6,121 41 410 40 400 41 410
Rural Mixed Use 0.1 269 0 0 0 0 7 73
St. Croix River District 0.1 296 9 90 10 100 10 100
Village Mixed Use 0.4 125 5 13 7 18 8 20
Village Neighborhood 0.4 1,080 120 300 140 350 92 230
Average Density for New Development 560 units/2,789 = 0.20 units/acre
Non-Residential Estimated
Employment/Acre
Developable
Acres Jobs Acres Jobs Acres Jobs Acres
Village Mixed Use 14 62.4 125 53 3.8 50 3.6 11 0.8
Rural Commercial 11.4 50.7 46 27 2.4 20 1.8 10 0.9
Rural Mixed Use 11.4 50.7 269 0 0 0 0 19 1.67
Average Density for New Development 190 jobs/14.8 acres = 12.8 jobs/acre
One of the main desires of this comprehensive plan is to preserve and augment the
community character and history in Scandia. To support the Village Center, the social and
economic heart of the city, infill development will be encouraged in vacant or underutilized
lots. This will help encourage a vibrant Village Center and surrounding residential
neighborhoods while utilizing existing infrastructure, guiding development and
redevelopment in an orderly manner. The expansion of the Village zoning districts will
occur as market conditions allow.
The implementation of the Rural Mixed Use district west of Big Marine Lake will be
contingent upon infrastructure repairs or upgrades. Most homes in this area are currently
served by community sewer, which is aging and to the point of needing repairs. The City of
Scandia is currently assessing options to best provide wastewater services to this portion of
the city, discussed more in Chapter VI. Development in this area of the city should be
aligned with future wastewater plans and investments.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Natural Resources
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III. NATURAL RESOURCES
Scandia’s original vegetation was the result of glacial processes that created the topographic
landscape features and soil types. As the landscape was modified during settlement and
development, most areas with soils suitable for crop production were cleared for planting. Natural
areas on steep slopes, hydric soils, and poor soils were left alone or used as pasture. This has led to
Scandia’s current landscape - a mosaic of agricultural lands, residential and commercial
development, and areas of natural vegetated cover.
As development continues, plans to manage future growth should be based on a thorough
understanding of the natural resources within the city’s boundaries. The purpose of this section is to
summarize available information regarding natural resources in the City of Scandia and to discuss
the relationship between natural resources and land use planning. Water resources, such as lakes,
rivers, and streams, are discussed in detail in the Water Resources Chapter.
Natural Resources Goals and Objectives
Goal: Protect natural resources and look for opportunities to connect large areas of open space.
Objectives:
• Coordinate with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and Washington
County on plans for the long-term acquisition and development of William O’Brien
State Park and Big Marine Park Reserve.
• Prioritize the preservation and treatment of open space in planning and review of
all types of development within the City.
Goal: Preserve high quality natural areas
Objectives:
• Work with property owners seeking to utilize Transfer of Development Rights and
Purchase of Development Rights, as appropriate, to obtain and protect high quality
natural areas while compensating landowners who give up development rights to
meet community land use and natural resource goals.
Goal: Eliminate, reduce or mitigate the negative effects of invasive species on natural areas
Objectives:
• Provide educational resources and materials to residents and businesses regarding
invasive species.
Goal: Recognize and enhance publicly owned lands and improve public access to such lands where
appropriate.
Objectives:
• Promote preservation and restoration of publicly owned and other lands
permanently protected from development through education and cooperation with
other governmental agencies and community groups.
• Improve designated physical access to the St. Croix River corridor and other
important or high quality natural areas where public lands may provide access
opportunities while preserving natural and historical integrity.
• Encourage for the preservation and establishment of scenic views throughout the
City.
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Goal: Work with property owners to protect and preserve native, endangered, threatened and
unique plants and animals on privately owned land.
Objectives:
• Provide educational resources and materials to residents and businesses regarding
invasive species.
• Encourage connections to high quality natural areas through natural corridors on
private land in order to allow for wildlife movement among habitats as part of
development.
Aggregate Resources
In 2000, the Metropolitan Council, the Department of Natural Resources, and the Minnesota
Geological Survey collaborated on an aggregate resource inventory of the seven-county
metropolitan area. The inventory identified and categorized likely areas of dolostone deposits,
and sand and gravel deposits. Areas identified as “dolostone” represent significant potential
deposits of Prairie du Chien dolostone suitable for crushed aggregate with less than 10 feet of
overburden. The sand and gravel deposits are classified into three categories according to type
and quality (based on percent of gravel content), thickness of deposit, amount of overlying
material, relationship to water table, and reliability of the mapping. Table III-A summarizes the
estimated areas of the dolostone deposits and the categories of sand and gravel deposits found
in the City of Scandia. Aggregate resource deposits are shown on Figure III-A – Natural and
Special Resources.
Table III-A – Acreage of Known Deposits
Deposit Type Size (in acres)
Dolostone 62
Sand & Gravel Deposit, good to excellent quality 649
Sand & Gravel Deposit, moderate to good quality 254
Regionally Significant Natural Areas
The MN DNR completed an analysis of regionally significant Terrestrial and Wetland
Ecological Areas in the seven-county metropolitan area in 2004. The analysis assessed
remaining forest, grassland, and wetland areas. The scores were determined by examining
important ecological attributes of the natural areas, including size, shape, cover type diversity,
and adjacent land use. This analysis was included in the previous comprehensive plan and is
maintained here to inform and guide the city’s land use, as protecting natural resources is one
of the city’s four overarching goals for the future. These areas are shown in Figure III-A.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Natural Resources
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Figure III-A - Natural and Special Resources
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Natural Resources
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Special Resource Protection
1. Agriculture Preserve
The Agriculture Preserves District (AP) plans for the continuation of the Agricultural
Preserves Program is Scandia. This land use district is intended to encourage the
continuation of agriculture through ensuring the availability of the program to qualifying
agricultural landowners. While Scandia plans for long-term agriculture through the use of
the Agricultural Preserve Program, it is the choice of a landowner to enroll in the
Agricultural Preserves Program. The Agricultural Preserves Program has set requirements,
including maximum housing densities, that determine the eligibility of parcels to enroll in
the program. Parcels zoned as Agricultural Core in the Future Land Use (see Figure II-F -
Future Land Use) meet the density requirements to qualify to enroll in the Agricultural
Preserve Program. Participating parcels as of 2014 are shown in Figure II-G.
2. Historic Protections
a) National Register of Historic Places
John Copas House: The John Copas House was built in 1880 on the site of an 1857
homestead. It was the home of John Copas, an early settler, merchant, and farmer. John
was also a founding member of the Copas community. The home is currently used as a
single family dwelling. It is located in the southeast corner of Scandia on Highway 95.
Johannes Erickson House: The Johannes Erickson House is a log dwelling with a
gambrel style rook. The house was built in 1868 by Swedish immigrant Erickson. The
house is part of the Gammelgarden Museum.
Hay Lake School: The Hay Lake School is a brick school with bell tower. The school
was built in 1895 by Scandia residents and was Scandia’s first school. Hay Lake
School served as the community’s school until services were moved to Elim Church.
The building is currently run by the Washington County Historical Society as a
museum and is located on County Road 3 and Old Maine Trail.
b) Historic Settlements
Scandia Village Center: The Village Center is literally and figuratively the heart of
the community. The street pattern is characterized by triangles formed by converging
major roads at a high point between valleys, interconnected by a grid of local streets.
Local landmarks include historic commercial buildings, Elim Lutheran Church and
cemetery, and the Gammelgarden Museum. Cultural and civic activities focus on the
same buildings as well as the Community Center and park. The Village Center is
architecturally diverse with a variety of early 20th-century commercial building types,
the 1850’s Swedish Farmhouse style museum and its outbuildings, and the Gothic
Revival style of the church, built in 1931. The formal gardens of the Elim Cemetery
offer an attractive site for community events.
Copas: Once a free-standing village centered on a Soo Line railroad depot (the railroad
between the Twin Cities and Duluth located west of Highway 95), Copas is now a
largely residential hamlet with a few historic and commercial buildings fronting State
Highway 95. The majority of the remaining buildings are located on a number of tree-
lined residential streets that parallel the St. Croix River.
Former Hamlets and Historical Localities: Otisville, Big Lake, and Panola (a post
office located just north of the city boundary) were all rural settlements of the region,
but few traces of these communities remain. The Log House Landing site near the
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former hamlet of Otisville remains as a public water access. The Big Lake School and
Goose Lake School sites also remain, harkening to Scandia’s and the region’s history.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Resilience
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IV. RESILIENCE
Resiliency in planning and development helps to ensure the prosperity, livability, equity, and
sustainability of a community for future generations. Resilience planning focuses on all aspects of
community, ensuring the economy, the environment, and social/living conditions are vibrant and
upheld through adversity.
Resilience Goals and Policies
Goal: Encourage the use of renewable, local and diverse forms of energy in order to increase use of
local resources, mitigate the local risk from fossil fuel scarcity and price increases, and help meet
Minnesota’s climate protection goals.
Objectives:
• Encourage the use of alternative renewable heating fuels as biomass while
establishing standards to limit nuisances associated with such systems.
• Encourage the use of alternative fuels and alternative means of transportation for City
residents and businesses.
Goal: Encourage energy efficient housing that exceeds the minimum efficiency levels required in
the State building codes.
Objectives:
• Protect solar access for homes and businesses.
• Promote the use of renewable energy systems on housing and in areas where such
systems can be safely operated and produce a minimum level of visual impact.
Goal: Review the goals of the Minnesota GreenStep Cities Program. Implement GreenStep Cities
Best Practices as appropriate.
Solar
The Metropolitan Land Planning Act (Minnesota Statues 473.859, Subd. 2) requires local
comprehensive plans to include for the protection and development of access to direct sunlight
for solar energy systems.
Within Scandia’s development code, the administration chapter details the allowance of
variances in regard to solar access. § 6.4.7 reads, “Practical difficulties include, but are not
limited to, inadequate access to direct sunlight for solar energy systems.”
Also, the subdivision regulations, in § 13.2.7, states “All new subdivisions, where appropriate,
should be designed to accommodate use of passive and active solar energy systems with special
attention given to street, lot and building orientation.”
According to the Metropolitan Council, Scandia has the following solar potential, detailed in
Table 17. These calculations assume a 10% conversion efficiency and current (2016/17) solar
technologies. The average home in Minnesota consumes between 9 and 10 Mwh/year (Solar
Energy Industries Association; US Energy Information Administration). Using only Scandia’s
rooftop generation potential, between 2,778 and 3,086 homes could be powered by solar energy
annually.
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Table IV-A – Solar Resource Calculations
Gross Potential
(Mwh/yr)
Rooftop Potential
(Mwh/yr)
Gross Generation
Potential (Mwh/yr2)
Rooftop Generation
Potential (Mwh/yr2)
51,157,938 277,765 5,115,793 27,776
Source: Metropolitan Council
These calculations done by the Metropolitan Council are not necessarily an absolute number.
Due to limitations in data and maps, some areas may be left out from gross and rooftop
potential.
These numbers should be interpreted as a baseline; if more accurate numbers are desired, the
Metropolitan Council advice a more extensive, community-specific analysis of solar
development potential for both solar gardens and rooftop or accessory use installations. On
average, communities would be able to expect between 30% and 60% of total energy used to be
able to be generated by solar rooftops. The rooftop potential estimated here does not consider
ownership, financial barriers, or building-specific structural limitations. Solar potential in the
City of Scandia is displayed in Figure IV-A.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Resilience
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Figure IV-A - Solar Potential Map
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Resilience
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Minnesota GreenStep Cities
In May 2014, the City Council approved a resolution to make Scandia a GreenStep City
through the MPCA and League of Minnesota Cities’ program. As of 2017, the city has
implemented 11 actions for four best management practices: buildings and lighting, land
use, environmental management, and economic and community development. Scandia is
currently a Step 1 City but is anticipated to achieve Step 2 in June 2018.
• Buildings and Lighting – Scandia has implemented two actions in efficiency in
building operations and lighting. The city has earned two stars for entering building
information in the Minnesota B3 Benchmarking database, allowing the city to track
their monthly energy and water use in all city-owned buildings. Scandia has also
earned one star for the use of a solar-powered light on the flagpole of the Veterans
Memorial in Lilleskogen Park.
• Land Use – The city has implemented three actions regarding comprehensive plans
and two practices for natural resource conservation design.
In comprehensive planning, Scandia has earned one star for adopting a
comprehensive, long-range land use plan and another star for updating its zoning
code and ordinances with the comprehensive plan. The city has also earned two
stars for adopting the Carnelian-Marine St. Croix’s watershed plan and for entering
agreements with May Township and Osceola, WI. Scandia provides fire services to
a portion of May Township, and Scandia entered a mutual aid agreement with
Osceola in 2009.
In natural resource conservation design, the city has earned two stars for
implementing and Open Space Subdivision process that allows development to
occur while preserving woodlands, natural corridors, agricultural land, open space,
and significant natural resources. Scandia has also earned two stars for adopting a
Woodland and Tree Preservation Plan requirement in the City Code. A Woodland
Preservation Plan is required whenever significant trees or woodlands exist in a
proposed construction zone.
• Environmental Management – Scandia has implemented two actions for this best
management practice. The city earned two stars for adopting a shoreland overlay
district with shoreland management regulations. Scandia also earned one star for
contracting with a service provider to provide single-sort curbside recycling for all
Scandia households.
• Economic and Community Development – The city has implemented two actions
for this best management practice area. Scandia has earned two stars for adopting a
solar farm and community solar garden ordinance, which has resulted in four solar
farms being approved for construction. The city has also earned two stars for
partnering with the Gammelgarden to bring a Farmer’s Market to Scandia. This
effort helped bring fresh, locally grown produce to residents while creating an
enjoyable, safe community event in the cultural/social heart of Scandia.
As Scandia plans for the future, it will continue to consider GreenStep City Best
Management Practices as they relate to the goals and objectives of this comprehensive plan.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Economic Competitiveness
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V. ECONOMIC COMPETITIVENESS
Minnesota Statutes §473.859 Subd. 1 states local comprehensive plans “shall contain objectives,
policies, standards, and programs to guide…redevelopment and preservation for all lands and
waters within the jurisdiction of the local governmental unit.” This comprehensive plan will address
this requirement through the implementation chapter at the end of the plan. The following sections
detail basic background information on employment and income to provide current conditions for
the community and to summarize public comments from the community survey, focus groups, and
open houses relating to economic development.
Economic Competitiveness Goals and Objectives
Goal: Concentrate on retaining and expanding local businesses in and around the Village Center
and existing Rural Commercial districts.
Objectives:
• Strengthen public services to attract and retain businesses and workforce.
• Identify and allow in-fill development opportunities for business expansion.
• Promote appropriately sized new businesses that create synergy with existing
businesses and overarching goals.
• Use outreach/branding initiatives to retain businesses and employment in Scandia.
• Cooperate with businesses, educational institutions, community organizations, and
government to provide information to local businesses.
• Create development and land use standards to guide development into the Village
Center and away from a linear pattern along the highways or undeveloped rural
intersections.
• Encourage businesses providing local services, as well as tourism and recreation
businesses in the Village Center.
• Work with building owners to maintain and upgrade building facades and properties
consistent with the Village Center’s small town image and historic character.
• Encourage public and private investment in community-oriented institutions
including the community center and city hall, church, cemeteries, and
Gammelgarden.
Goal: Actively support the retention and expansion of Scandia community-scale agricultural
operations.
Objectives:
• Work cooperatively with other governmental agencies and community groups to
develop programs to help keep agricultural land affordable in Scandia.
• Update ordinances and regulations to facilitate growth of small-scale agricultural
uses.
Goal: Encourage home-based entrepreneurs and businesses.
Objectives:
• Identify opportunities to encourage home-based businesses to transition to a
storefront when its market is adequately developed.
• Review standards to support home occupations while ensuring compatibility with
surrounding land uses.
Goal: Expand access to internet services throughout the entire City.
Objectives:
• Encourage internet providers to expand service areas and bandwidth throughout the
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Economic Competitiveness
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City.
• Explore potential opportunities for public investment or grants to expand internet
capabilities.
• As development or redevelopment occurs, support the addition of infrastructure that
will enable expansion of internet technology.
Employment in Scandia
Figure V-A shows the historical employment in Scandia from 1970 through 2016 and
projected employment to 2040. Employment in Scandia peaked in 2011 with 620
employees. Projections show employment increasing in Scandia considerably in the next 20
years, projecting to add 190 jobs by 2040. However, this is contingent on the ability of
businesses and industries in the city to support employment growth as well as the ability of
the city to support new and growing businesses.
Figure V-A - Historical and Projected Employment in Scandia
Source: Metropolitan Council Tabulation of US Census and American Community Survey Data
Figure V-B shows employment in Scandia by industry in 2015. Of Scandia’s total 540 jobs,
46% fall into “All Other Industries,” suggesting a diversity of jobs within the city. The
largest single industry is Educational Services, which provides 21% of jobs located in
Scandia. Health care and social assistance and construction make up the second and third
largest single industries in the city, respectively.
40 50
387
272
519
620 607
531 526 540
620
690
730
0
100
200
300
400
500
600
700
800
1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2020 2030 2040
Employment in Scandia (Historical and Projected)
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Figure V-B - Employment by Industry
Source: Metropolitan Council
Income
Figure V-C shows median household income in Scandia over the last 25 years. Median
household income has increased in Scandia, with the largest increase between 1990 and
2000. These medians are nearly identical to Washington County median household
incomes.
Figure V-C - Median Household Income
1. Public Comments
Appendices D and E provide detailed responses regarding community and economic
development. In brief, Community Survey respondents identified businesses struggling in
the low-density city as one of the top three challenges facing the city and commercial
growth as the number one priority for the city for the next 20 years. Residents of Scandia
$45,915
$68,036
$80,556 $84,130
$0
$10,000
$20,000
$30,000
$40,000
$50,000
$60,000
$70,000
$80,000
$90,000
Census 1990 Census 2000 ACS 2006-2010 ACS 2011-2015
Source: US Census and American Community Survey (Not Adjusted for Inflation)
4%
46%
21%
11%
10%
2%
6%
1%
Administrative and Waste Services
All Other Industries
Educational Services
Health Care and Social Assistance
Construction
Professional and Technical Services
Public Administration
Transportation and Warehousing
0%5%10%15%20%25%30%35%40%45%50%
Employment by Industry in Scandia, 2015
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want growth to match existing community character, supporting existing small businesses
and the history of the community. There is interest in a range of community businesses and
attractions, many of which can cater to both local and tourist markets, such as coffee shops,
restaurants, and recreation. There is also interest in exploring alternative agricultural
opportunities, like co-ops, and tourism as key elements of the city’s economy, as traditional
agriculture will become increasingly difficult to maintain. Focus groups also noted slow
and sporadic internet speed as a limiting factor in business operations.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Housing
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VI. HOUSING
As part of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan update, the Metropolitan Council provides housing
estimates for each community in the seven-county metropolitan area, based on the 2010 Census and
the number of permitted units between 2010 and 2015. However, this level of analysis is only
meant to provide a framework, and typically works best in larger communities. Given the small size
of the City of Scandia, it can be difficult to obtain accurate data for housing units.
To provide a more accurate picture of current housing conditions in Scandia, data for occupied
housing units from the 2011-2015 American Community Survey (ACS) was used to provide a
baseline for current housing conditions in Scandia. This was determined to be the most appropriate
data to use, as it most closely aligned with Washington County property assessments in Scandia and
focused solely on occupied units. There are a number of seasonal dwelling units in Scandia (i.e.
cabins), but there is no consensus between data sources (US Census/ACS, Washington County, and
the Metropolitan Council) as to how many seasonal “vacant” units there are in Scandia. This can be
misleading, as seasonal units are counted as “vacant” even though they are owned and occupied for
varying lengths throughout the year. Based on community experiences, the City of Scandia has very
low to no vacancy rates for permanently occupied units.
To help guide effective, community focused policies pertaining to housing in the City of Scandia,
the city presumes there to be low/no vacancies within city limits. Seasonal housing units may or
may not become permanently occupied in the future; this is the decision of the property owner, not
the city. The City of Scandia will plan for and consider policies that do not assume any conversion
of seasonal units into permanent residences, meaning development or redevelopment is assumed to
be needed to accommodate all future households. This will ensure that enough land is reserved for
residential uses in areas that are close to or are connected to existing residential areas and service,
supporting orderly residential growth. Any conversion of seasonal units to permanent housing
would ultimately decrease the number of new housing units and amount of land needed in Scandia
to accommodate projected population growth.
Housing Goals and Objectives
Goal: Support a variety of housing types and densities for residential uses in and surrounding
the Village Center and other areas where appropriate.
Objectives:
• Encourage residential development in areas where sufficient infrastructure capacity
can be provided.
• Offer density bonuses for development providing senior housing, lifecycle housing,
or work with property owners on the transfer of development rights.
Goal: Expand life-cycle housing opportunities for residents at all points of life.
Objectives:
• Encourage residential buildings to be designed for accessibility in order to meet the
needs of current and future owners.
• Continue to work with the Washington County Community Development Agency
to identify opportunities for providing additional affordable senior housing in the
Village Center.
Goal: Encourage a range of housing choices that fit with the character of the community
Objectives:
• Review current development ordinance for districts to allow smaller lot sizes or
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higher densities while respecting the rural character and land uses.
• Encourage Open-Space Cluster housing development and Lot Averaging
development.
• Continue to monitor the general condition of the housing stock, with a special
focus on the physical condition of the older housing.
Existing Housing
As of 2015, Scandia contained approximately 1,518 occupied-housing units, 98% of which are
single family and 2% or which are multi-family. About 90% of the households (1,367 units) in
Scandia are owner-occupied, compared to 10% renter-occupied units (151 units). About 37% of
homes in Scandia are affordable to households with incomes at or below 80% Area Median
Income (AMI). However, about 30% of households in Scandia experience cost burden. There
are 40 subsidized units in Scandia, all of which are designated as senior housing. These and
other housing conditions are outlined in Tables VI-A and VI-B.
Table VI-A – Housing Conditions
Housing Units Number of
Units
Percent
of Total
Total Occupied Housing Units 1,518 100%
– Owner Occupied 1,367 90%
– Rental 151 10%
Single Family Homes 1,488 98%
Multi-family Homes 30 2%
Publicly Subsidized
– Senior Housing 40 3%
– Housing for People with Disabilities 0 0%
– All Other Publicly Subsidized Units 0 0%
Affordable Housing
Housing Units affordable to households with incomes
at or below 30% Area Median Income (AMI) 16 1%
Housing Units affordable to households with incomes
between 31 and 50% Area Median Income (AMI) 137 9%
Housing Units affordable to households with incomes
between 51 and 80% Area Median Income (AMI) 416 27%
Source: Metropolitan Council Tabulation of American Community Survey Data, 2011-2015
Table VI-B - Households Experiencing Cost Burden
Existing households experiencing housing cost burden
with incomes below 30% AMI 83 5%
Existing households experiencing housing cost burden
with incomes between 31 and 50% AMI 114 8%
Existing households experiencing housing cost burden
with incomes between 51 and 80% AMI 22 1%
Source: Metropolitan Council Tabulation of American Community Survey Data, 2011-2015
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Housing affordability is an issue every community needs to address. In Scandia, about 30% of
all households spend 30% or more of the household income on housing and are considered to
experience housing cost burden (shown in Figure VI-A). About half of all cost-burdened
households have incomes at or below 80% AMI; the other half have incomes higher than 80%
AMI.
Housing affordability has become a growing concern in Scandia, detailed in Appendices D and
E. Only 15% of all households experienced housing cost burden in 1990; in 2015, that
percentage doubled to 30%. High housing costs can make it difficult for young families to
move into the community or for older residents on fixed-incomes to age in their community.
Figure VI-A – Housing Cost Burden
Source: US Census and American Community Survey
1. Housing Units
Housing in Scandia is predominantly single family detached, which is characteristic of rural
communities. Approximately 94% of the occupied housing stock in Scandia are detached
single family, compared to 4% attached single family residences. There is a limited amount
of multifamily housing in Scandia. Multifamily units make up roughly 2% of the city’s
housing stock with 0.6% of being duplexes, triplexes, and quads and 1.4% being larger,
five units or more buildings. These data are noted in Table VI-C.
Table VI-C – Household Type
Household Type Units Percentage
Single-Family Detached 1,428 94%
Townhomes (single-family attached) 59 4%
Duplex, triplex and quad 9 0.6%
Multifamily (5 units or more) 21 1.4%
Total Households 1,518
Source: American Community Survey, 2011-2015
As shown in Figure VI-B, over 70% of the city’s housing stock has been built since 1970
with almost a quarter of all units built between 1970 and 1979. About a third of Scandia’s
housing units were built in the last 25 years (1990-2015). The proportion of the city’s
15%16%
27%30%
14%15%
25%
30%33%
28%
48%
27%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
Census 1990 Census 2000 ACS 2006-2010 ACS 2011-2015
Percent of Households Experiencing Cost Burden in Scandia
All households experiencing cost burden Owners experiencing cost burden
Renter households experiencing cost burden
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Housing
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oldest housing units built in 1939 or earlier, has decreased from 19% of the city’s total
stock in 2000 to 12% in 2015.
Figure VI-B – Age of Housing
Source: American Community Survey, 2011-2015
There has been little housing development in Scandia since 2010, though the pace of
development has increased in 2015 and 2016, shown in Figure III-C. Most development
since 2000 has been in single family, detached homes.
Figure VI-C – Residential Building Permits
Source: Metropolitan Council
2. Housing Demographics
Table VI-D illustrates the distribution of owner-occupied and renter-occupied households
in Scandia by age. The largest cohort of owners is the 55 to 64-year old range, making up
about 34% of all homeowners in Scandia. This cohort also makes up the largest share of
renter households, representing 42% of all renters. About 60% of all households in Scandia
are owned or rented by residents age 55 or older. In contrast, approximately 6% of all
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
Year Structure Built by Tenure
Owner
Renter
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
160
2000-2004 2005-2009 2010-2014 2015-2016
New Housing Units Permitted by Scandia
Duplex, triplex and quad Multifamily (5 units or more)
Single-Family Detached Townhomes (single-family attached)
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households are headed by persons under the age of 35, and about 20% of all household are
headed by persons under the age of 45.
Table VI-D – Age Distribution of Owners and Renters
Householder Age Owners Renters
15-24 10 0
25-34 53 28
35-44 132 23
45-54 342 20
55-64 448 63
65-74 311 17
75 or Older 71 0
Total Households 1,367 151
Source: American Community Survey, 2011-2015
Scandia has a high rate of homeownership; 90% of all housing units are owner occupied.
Figure VI-D shows historical homeownership rates in the city; the current homeownership
rate in Scandia is estimated to be the lowest rate the city has seen in 25 years.
Figure VI-D – Housing Ownership
Source: US Census, American Community Survey
3. Housing Values
Housing values in Scandia are higher compared to other areas in the region. Scandia has
higher values than both Forest Lake and Washington County, as shown in Figure III-E.
Scandia’s median housing value is $293,700, compared to $230,100 in Forest Lake and the
County average of $243,600. About 13% of the city’s housing market is valued below
$200,000 while about 23% are valued above $400,000. While high home values can be
beneficial to homeowners and the city, they can price out young families, lower-wage
workers like teachers and health care assistants, and seniors on fixed-incomes.
94%94%92%90%
6%6%8%10%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
1990 2000 2010 2015
Housing Tenure
Renter
Owner
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Figure VI-E – Housing Values
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
Pe
r
c
e
n
t
a
g
e
o
f
U
n
i
t
s
Forest Lake Scandia Washington County
Source: Metropolitan Council Tabulation of American Community Survey Data.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Housing
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Figure VI-F - Owner Occupied Units by Value
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Housing
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Projected Housing Needs
The City of Scandia is anticipated to see modest population and household growth by 2040.
Exact housing needs and demand for new housing development will be influenced by the actual
population growth and average household size. The amount of land needed to accommodate
new housing units will be influenced by several factors, including the desire for accessory
dwelling units and the location of new units. Most of the city’s housing growth is anticipated to
take place in the Village Neighborhood designation, which permits higher density residential
development than General Rural or Agricultural. Accessory dwelling units on existing lots can
also accommodate the city’s projected population growth without greatly increasing the
demand for developable land.
Figure VI-G – Household Projections
Appendix A details the housing needs and gaps identified by respondents to the 2017
Community Survey. Residential development was noted as one of the top priorities for the city
for the next 20 years. Most survey respondents expressed a desire for mid-range, single-family
homes on larger lots. When asked to identify gaps, the most common response was about the
lack of senior or assisted living (45% of survey responses).
As noted in Appendix B, focus group participants also expressed a desire for housing north of
Highway 97, north/west of the current village center and around Big Marine Lake. There was
interest in senior housing options, which ranged from care facilities to varying house sizes
(smaller single family, townhomes) and lot configurations, such as accessory dwelling units.
To accommodate projected housing needs, the Future Land Use plan expands the Village
Neighborhood designation north and west, a reflection of both public comments and orderly,
contiguous residential expansion. This designation accommodates smaller homes and smaller
lot sizes, blending into the historical character of the Village Center. The zoning ordinance also
includes density bonuses for the development of housing, where the housing units are
designated for residents age 55 or older or are affordable to households with incomes less than
120% of AMI. Large lot, single family homes are the primary housing type permitted in Rural
Residential General, Agricultural Core, and the St. Croix River zoning districts to preserve the
city’s rural character.
408
851
1,060
1,294
1,498 1,518 1,700
1,910 2,100
1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 2030 2040
Household Projections in Scandia
Number of Households
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Affordable Housing Allocation
The Affordable Housing Allocation reflects the region’s forecasted population that will need
affordable housing. According to the Metropolitan Council’s affordable housing allocation,
Scandia’s share of affordable housing need is zero units, noted in Table VI-E.
Table VI-E – Affordable Housing Allocation
At or below 30 AMI 0
From 31 to 50 AMI 0
From 51 to 80 AMI 0
Total Number 0
While the City of Scandia does not have an affordable housing allocation, residents have
expressed a concern about the lack of affordable housing in the city. High housing costs were
identified in the Community Survey as one of the top three challenges facing Scandia. About
37% of existing housing units are affordable to households with incomes at or below 80% AMI.
As mentioned in the previous section, Scandia offers a density bonus for the development of
affordable housing (up to 120% AMI) in the Village Neighborhood zoning district. The City
will work with developers and Washington County to inform residents of available programs
and identify opportunities for implementation.
Housing Implementation Plan
There are a variety tools that aid the development of affordable housing. Table VI-F lists
several of the tools available to the City of Scandia. The City of Scandia will consider the
following tools on a case-by-case basis, as development occurs.
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Table VI-F – Housing Implementation
Housing
Goal/Need Available Tool Opportunity and Sequence of Use Potential Partners
Multi-
Generational
Community
Living
Start-Up Loan
Program
Assist first-time homebuyers with financing a
home purchase and down payment assistance
through a dedicated loan program
Minnesota Housing
Home
Improvement
Loans
Assist homeowners in financing home
maintenance projects to accommodating a
physical disability
Washington
County CDA,
Minnesota Housing
ADU Ordinance
The City will continue to support ordinances
permitting the construction of accessory
dwelling units or guest homes in specific zoning
districts
Planning
Commission and
City Council
Planned Unit
Development
(PUD)
The City would consider a PUD application for
senior housing in the Village Mixed Use district.
Planning
Commission and
City Council
Program or
Framework
The City will work with groups and
stakeholders to develop guiding principles,
frameworks, and action plans to consider and
incorporate the needs of older residents into
development decisions
Senior advocacy
groups or
networks,
residents
Maintaining
Existing Housing
Units
Home
Improvement
Loans
Assist homeowners in financing home
maintenance projects like roof repair,
plumbing and electrical work, accommodating
a physical disability, or select energy efficiency
improvement projects
Washington
County CDA,
Minnesota Housing
Subsurface
Sewage
Treatment System
Repair Grant/Loan
Assist homeowners with noncompliant
subsurface sewage treatment systems
Washington
County
New Housing
Construction
Tax Increment
Financing
The City would consider the creation of a TIF
district to encourage development of new
housing units, redevelopment and/or
infrastructure improvements affordable at or
below 80% AMI
Washington
County CDA
Site Assembly
The City would consider assembling a site for
senior housing. This may include acquiring and
holding land as well as sub-allocating such monies
to a qualified developer approved by the City
Council.
City
Council/Developer
Housing Bonds
The City would consider housing bonds to
support the new construction of affordable
and/or senior housing affordable at or below
80% AMI.
Washington
County CDA
Tax Abatement The City would consider tax abatement to
support the new construction of affordable
Washington
County CDA
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Table VI-F – Housing Implementation
and/or senior housing affordable at or below
80% AMI.
MN Housing
Consolidated RFP
The City would consider supporting an
application to support the new construction of
senior housing.
Washington
County CDA,
Minnesota Housing
GROW Fund
Provide gap financing for new or
redevelopment projects affordable to owner or
renter households at or below 60% AMI
Washington
County CDA
Maintaining
Homeownership
Home Buyer
Education
The City will consider partnering with the CDA
and other agencies to offer resources to
homeowners pre- and post-purchase.
Washington
County CDA
Homeowner
Counseling
The City will consider partnering with the CDA
and other agencies to offer counseling and
foreclosure prevention to homeowners.
Washington
County CDA
Community Land
Trust
The City will consider supporting the addition
of appropriate single-family homes into the
Two Rivers Community Land Trust to increase
affordable housing options.
Washington
County CDA
Other
City Ordinances
The City will review zoning and subdivision
ordinances to identify the potential
opportunities for cluster development and
flexible development that will encourage
affordable housing. Planning
Commission and
City Council
The City will review its zoning and subdivision
ordinances to identify any regulations that
inhibit the housing priorities in this document.
This effort is slated for completion by 2020.
Local Fair Housing
Policy
The City will consider developing a Fair Housing
Policy.
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VII. PARKS AND TRAILS
Future land use and development decisions need to consider the necessary infrastructure that will
enable growth, protect community character and natural systems, and sustain Scandia as a
community over time. Parks and recreation amenities and programs are a critical element to
sustaining the community. Park, recreation, and open space goals need to be integrated with
Scandia’s land use, transportation, and economic goals. This section summarizes the findings and
recommendations of the Parks, Trails, Open Space, and Recreation Plan, the Comprehensive Trails
Master Plan Report, and the Regional Park and Trail needs identified by the Metropolitan Council.
Parks and Trails Goals and Objectives
The City established five goals for Parks and Trails in Scandia. These goals were developed
from and are in support of the goals, policies, and strategies as identified in the 2023 Parks,
Trails, and Open Space Master Plan.
Goal: Provide sufficient park and recreation opportunities to meet current and future
recreational needs in the City of Scandia..
Objectives:
• Prioritize the enhancement and development of Scandia’s centralized parks, such as
Scandia Community Center, over more remote parks with fewer amenities.
• Across all of the City’s parks, prioritize maintaining existing amenities over adding
new amenities.
• Develop and maintain dedicated facilities for sporting activities, such as fields and
courts.
• Participate in regional park/trail planning initiatives, including the Washington
County Parks Department, the Minnesota Department of Transportation, and the
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.
• Identify and apply for grants to help fund solutions to recreational needs.
Goal: Ensure that all Scandia residents have safe access to quality parks and recreation
facilities.
Objectives:
• Encourage ongoing citizen participation in the planning and development of park
and open space facilities.
• Provide ADA-compliant, barrier-free access in all new or improved park facilities,
play areas, and sports field areas.
• Increase number of safe crossings near park facilities and in downtown Scandia.
• Continue to pursue City/school/sports organization development projects to help
expand community outdoor recreational opportunities in a cost-effective manner.
• Offer appropriate and engaging recreational opportunities for all age
Goal: Enhance connectivity and accessibility between Scandia’s parks and between adjacent
communities.
Objectives:
• Improve wayfinding within and around the trail system, as well as increase
visibility of trailheads.
• Continue to plan and implement school connection trails throughout Scandia.
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• Continue to expand Scandia’s network of interconnected, non-motorized trails to
promote connectivity between parks, neighborhoods, and public amenities)
Goal: Preserve the historical, cultural, and environmental significance of Scandia's existing
green space.
Objectives
• Continue working with the Scandia Heritage Alliance to assist in the
implementation of its Scandia Arts and Heritage (Water Tower Barn) project.
• Protect Scandia's scenic beauty and natural resources by cultivating a system of
parks, trails, and open spaces that respect natural terrain and preserve native
ecosystems.
• Provide undeveloped open spaces that assist in the conservation of ecologically
sensitive areas.
• Coordinate local efforts with other public agencies and private partners to protect
valuable natural resources through donations, procurement of easements,
acquisitions, and purchase of development rights; make these lands available for
passive recreation where appropriate.
• Manage vegetation in natural areas by removing and controlling non-native,
invasive spaces.
• Ensure adequate funding for ongoing maintenance of City monuments and
historically-significant structures.
Goal: Ensure that ongoing park improvements and future system expansion are financially
sustainable.
Objectives
• Utilize the "Grant Opportunities" table on pages 57-58 of the Parks, Recreation,
and Open Space Master Plan as a resource for funding solutions to recreational
needs; update regularly as new funding sources become available.
• Establish process for identifying, writing, and championing grant applications.
• Work closely with Scandia's City Council to identify park/recreational projects to
be incorporated into the City's Capital Improvement Program (CIP).
• Leverage local and regional partnerships for funding specific opportunities.
Existing Guiding Documents
The 2023 Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan: In 2023, the City of Scandia
completed and adopted the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan. This document
describes the current state, and recommends improvements for, the City’s green spaces and
recreational amenities. The Plan includes an analysis of the City’s current and projected
demographic data, as well as a detailed inventory of Scandia’s parks (both City-owned and
otherwise), trails, undeveloped parcels, recreational programming, and ongoing community
initiatives. Using public input gathered through an online survey and stakeholder interviews,
these five goals were developed to inform the overarching vision of the Plan, and multiple
strategies for each goal helped narrow this vision into actionable steps.
Public input also aided in generating specific recommendations for each of Scandia’s parks and
trails. The Plan document breaks up each of Scandia’s City-owned parks into separate spreads,
which list existing amenities and recommended improvements, along with their general
prioritization, cost estimate, and time frame for expected completion.
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Recommendations are also given for trails within downtown Scandia and throughout Scandia,
additional recreational programming ideas, and potential empty lots for future development.
The Implementation chapter lists various local and regional grant opportunities and steps for
amending the document if necessary.
Comprehensive Trails Master Plan Report: The Scandia City Council adopted the new
Comprehensive Trail Plan in June of 2011. The plan was developed with the help of many
Scandia residents, the Park and Recreation Committee, and the Friends of Scandia Parks and
Trails. Developing connections to and among Scandia parks and to regional trails are goals of
the trail planning project, as well as identifying safe walking and biking routes to school and
other key locations. The plan was funded by a grant from the Statewide Health Improvement
Program (SHIP) through the Washington County Department of Public Health and
Environment. Two of the Trails Planning Maps are included as Figures at the end of this
section.
Metropolitan Council System Statement
The Metropolitan Council created a Regional Parks System Statement Scandia 2015. The
System Statement identifies which regional park issues need to be addressed in the City of
Scandia’s comprehensive plan. No new regional parks are planned in Washington County by
2040, and no recent changes to the existing regional park system (which could require
adjustment of the City’s land use maps) are noted in the System Statement.
The System Statement identifies one existing regional park - Big Marine Park Reserve - as well
as two state lands - the Rustrum Wildlife Management Area (WMA) and the Falls Creek
Scientific and Natural Area (SNA) - as Regional Parks Components in Scandia. Since the
publication of the System Statement, Crystal Springs SNA was created and is now open to the
public as part of the DNR’s natural area system. Crystal Springs is within the St. Croix National
Scenic Riverway.
Washington County has additionally called out William O’Brien State Park and the Glacial
Hills Regional Trail search corridor in their 2040 comprehensive planning documents. Both of
these facilities are located on the southeastern border of Scandia along Marine on St. Croix and
May Township.
Thrive MSP 2040 Regional Parks Policy Plan calls out the Glacial Hills Regional Trail search
corridor running 12 miles, east-west between William O’Brien State Park and the Hardwood
Creek Regional Trail. The Plan also calls out the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, a portion
of which is located in the region (along the eastern border of Scandia). The St. Croix National
Scenic Riverway is a unit of the National Park System located on the St. Croix River and the
Namekagon River in Wisconsin. The National Riverway includes the two rivers and their
riparian areas and occupies the boundary between Wisconsin and Minnesota. The St. Croix
National Scenic Riverway is maintained and managed by the National Park Service and the
Minnesota and Wisconsin Departments of Natural Resources.
The Metropolitan Council’s 2005 Regional Parks Capital Improvement Program identified
several priority acquisitions in 2006-7 to expand Big Marine Park Reserve and a project
scheduled for 2010-11 to develop a campground and related facilities in Big Marine Park
Reserve. These investments will likely result in increased use of Big Marine Park Reserve and
will enhance the recreational value of trail connections or other local park and open space
efforts connecting to the Reserve.
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The Regional Parks and Trail System in Scandia is shown in Figure VII-A.
Stakeholder Perceptions and Recommendations
The resident survey showed an extremely strong interest in protecting the City’s open space
amenities, which include both the natural systems portrayed on the Open Space Plan map and
the rural character associated with agriculture. Residents reported greater participation in
individual recreation activities (jogging, biking, and fishing) than team or organized activities.
The Plan did not report, however, any distinction between adult and youth preferences.
The visioning discussion addressed how the different components of Scandia’s green
infrastructure interrelate. The visioning process included an identification of issues, listing of
opportunities, and a number of recommendations. The recommendations for the Parks and
Trails portion of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan update, as developed by the Parks and
Recreation Committee are listed in the following section. The recommendations have been
separated into four categories: Parks, Trails, Open Space and Recreation Recommendations.
The 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update Community Survey (conducted in 2017) identified the
following priorities with regards to parks and trails:
• Walking/Biking/Horse Trails - 13% of survey respondents identified this as one of their
top three development priorities for the City of Scandia (this is the second highest
ranking after Commercial growth)
• Outdoor Recreation - 9% of survey respondents identified this as one of their top three
development priorities
• Parks - 6% of survey respondents identified this as one of their top three development
priorities
Forty-one percent (41%) of survey respondents enjoy walking and do so daily within their
neighborhoods. Approximately 22% of respondents stated that they would walk/bike more if
there were more sidewalks/trails and approximately 24% said they would walk/bike more if
local roads were improved for this use.
Focus groups also expressed a desire for sidewalks and bike paths in the city. There was also an
interest in dog parks and public beach access on Bone or Big Marine Lake.
The Scandia Parks and Recreation Committee reviewed the Parks and Recreation portion of the
2008 Comprehensive Plan and updated recommendations for the 2040 vision for the City.
These recommendations are summarized in the following list, divided by park, trail, open space
and recreational facilities recommendations.
Park System Plan
a) Focal point of Scandia Community Center Park as central hub of parks network
throughout township
b) Increase active recreation at Scandia Elementary School area
c) Identify where and what kind of park acquisition is desirable
d) Identify appropriate use of existing parks
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Parks and Trails
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Figure VII-A - Regional Parks and Trails
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Parks and Trails
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Trail System Plan
a) Support development of Gateway trail and identify connections
b) Identify opportunities for new trail systems, trailheads, and rest stops within the
community
Open Space System Plan
a) Protect stream corridors; link to promote preservation of open space
b) Promote public awareness of value of open space and conservation easements
Recreational Facilities System Plan
a) Develop partnerships with local and regional recreation facilities (e.g. adjacent school
districts, neighboring communities, and government agencies).
Existing Parks and Trails
1. Regional/State Parks
Regional parks generally serve populations within a one-half hour to one-hour travel time.
They are usually in areas that exhibit highly valued scenic or natural qualities. In
the Scandia area, many regional parks and open space relate to the Lower St. Croix River,
lakes or natural communities. This section describes and maps the regional facilities in
Scandia. Scandia has a state park, a county park reserve, two scientific and natural areas
and a wildlife management area located within the city. Figure VII-A shows regional parks
located in Scandia.
William O’Brien State Park
William O’Brien State Park is on the St. Croix River and it offers many recreation
opportunities including biking, swimming, and nature interpretation. The park is
located in the southeast and includes 16 miles of hiking trails. The park located 5
minutes from Scandia Village.
Big Marine Lake Park Reserve
Big Marine Park Reserve is owned and operated by Washington County and is partially
located within the City of Scandia. The park was selected as a regional facility because
of its excellent natural resource features, including the St. Croix Valley/northeast
ground moraine and high-quality upland and wetland wildlife habitat. When completed,
the park will be 1,800 acres, with 80 percent of its acreage set aside for preservation
and protection. This 80 percent will eventually resemble the land as it was prior to the
arrival of the settlers in the mid-1800s.
Falls Creek Scientific Natural Areas (SNA)
Falls Creek is a MN DNR owned 136-acre scientific and natural area in Scandia. It
represents one of the most diverse natural areas in Washington County. It is home to a
myriad of Paleozoic rocks, steep ravines, pine and oak forests, and protection for
wildlife. Many areas that have been destroyed are undergoing reforestation with
seedlings grown from acorns collected at the site. Unique aspects of the park include a
stand of virgin hardwood and white pine forest as well as numerous wildflowers like
trilliums, rue anemone, and bellwort.
Crystal Spring Scientific and Natural Area (SNA)
Crystal Spring is a 38-acre MN DNR site offering high quality scenic views,
impressive steep cliffs, hiking, wildlife watching, photography opportunities,
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snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. High quality native plant communities
including red oak – basswood forest, exhibiting old-growth characteristics, carpet the
rugged terrain. This site is included in an Audubon Important Bird Area within the
Lower St. Croix National Scenic Riverway providing bird watching opportunities. This
SNA is located between the St. Croix River and County Rd. 95 (St. Croix Trail),
approximately 3 miles east of central Scandia. There are no maintained trails or other
recreational facilities.
Rustrum Wildlife Management Area (WMA)
Rustrum WMA is 24 acres, owned by the MN DNR, and located approximately three
miles east of central Scandia on the St. Croix River. The WMA is accessible by water
only with the nearest carry-in access located at Otisville, one mile downstream. The
site is 83% open water and emergent vegetation marsh and 17% flood plain forest. This
site offers unique boat access, hunting opportunities, and flood plain forest wildlife
viewing.
2. Regional Trails
Washington County has a 29.7 mile on-road bike loop identified through Scandia, Marine
on St. Croix, and May Township. This loop runs along County Highway 15, Trunk
Highways 97 and 95. This loop intersects another bike loop that connects to the Gateway
State Trail at Pine Point Regional Park (Stillwater Township).
There are no other regional trails currently identified through Scandia.
3. Local Parks
This section describes and maps the existing local parks, trails, and recreation facilities in
Scandia. Table VII-A highlights the available amenities provided by each park, shown in
Figure VII-B.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Parks and Trails
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Figure VII-B - Local Parks and Trails
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Parks and Trails
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Scandia Community Center, 14727 209th St N.
Located in Olinda Trail North, just south of the Village Center, the Scandia Community Center is a
well-used facility with a community building that houses the township offices, banquet hall with
kitchen facilities, meeting rooms, restrooms and outdoor recreational facilities on an 18-acre site. The
Community Center shares a parking lot of approximately 120 parking spaces with the Leonard
Wojtowicz Skating Park. There is a public works maintenance building on site.
Wind in the Pines Reserve, 22199 St. Croix Trail
Wind in the Pines Park is thought to be one of the most diverse ecological areas left in Washington
County by the Minnesota DNR. This 44-acre site is located in the northeast corner of the Township
along State Highway 95 across from Pilar Road. Bounded by the Falls Creek SNA to the north and the
Lower St. Croix National Scenic Riverway to the east, this parcel offers diversity of old growth forest
and pristine prairies, providing invaluable wildlife habitat and unparalleled scenic value. There is a
small grave lot off Highway 95. Trails are marked and maintained by volunteers for non-motorized
pedestrian use.
Lilleskogen Park, 14600 Oakhill Road
This 8-acre park is located near the Village Center, with approximately half its area in wetlands.
Parking and access are problematic off of Oakhill Road. A few old footpaths remain. Existing
facilities include a parking lot, a Veteran’s Memorial, and a butterfly garden. This park is currently
undergoing restoration of the wetlands, in preparation for future development. This park was formerly
known as Old Lion’s Park.
Lion’s Park at Hay Lake, 14001 Old Marine Trail
Located at the intersection of Old Marine Trail and Olinda Trail North in the south-central part of the
city, this 7-acre site has been updated with a park shelter, picnic tables, grills, lighting, and electrical
hook-ups. Parking is available on the street. This site is adjacent to the Hay Lake School Museum and
across the road from the Swedish Settler’s Monument.
Barton Johnson Memorial Park, 20880 Olinda Trail
Barton Johnson is a private neighborhood park located adjacent to the Gammelgarden Museum and
across Olinda Trail from the Scandia Community Center.
Wayne Erickson Memorial Ball Park, 21398 Olinda Trail
Formerly known as Scandia Lighted Ball Field, Wayne Erickson Memorial Ball Park is located on the
west side of Olinda Trail/County Road 3, north of Scandia Trail/Highway 97. The site includes a
concession stand and children’s play structure.
South Ball Field, 20835 Olinda Trail
The ball field is located just south of the Community Center, on the east side of Olinda Trail/County
Road 3.
Scandia T-Ball Field, 14849 Oakhill Road North
This ball field is located on the south side of Oakhill (County Road 52), east of Olinda Trail.
Swenson Goose Lake Estate
This 1.7-acre parcel is part of the Swenson Estate Subdivision off of Oren Road North near the north
central part of the city. There are no existing facilities on site. In 2016, the Soaring Eagles 4-H Club
led a pollinator planting project on the parcel.
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Log House Landing, Off 205th Street North- North of William O'Brien State Park
Log House Landing is located off 205th Street North just east of Quinnell Ave in Scandia and
provides access to the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway.
Bone Lake Park (undeveloped open space)
Located in the northwest corner of the city near Lofton Ave., this 26-acre park is under approximately
60% wetland cover and supports the inlet to Bone Lake. It contains a DNR boat launch on the north
side of Bone Lake with associated parking. Area Boy Scouts have been given permission to establish
trails in this park, but Bone Lake is currently undeveloped.
Goose Lake Lot (undeveloped open space)
This 5-acre parcel with lake frontage is located on Goose Lake across from boat launch and is
surrounded by single-family homes. The lot is not maintained and is currently undeveloped due to
steep terrain.
Orwell Lot (undeveloped open space)
Approximately 50% of this 2.5-acre lot is covered in wetlands. There are no existing facilities on site.
Table VII-A – Park Amenities by Location
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Scandia Community
Center 18 X X X X X X X
Wind in the Pines
Preserve 44 X X X
Lilleskogen Park (Old
Lion’s Park) 8 X X
Lion’s Park at Hay Lake 7 X X X
Barton Johnson Memorial
Park X X
Wayne Erickson Memorial
Ball Park X X X X
South Ball Field X X
Scandia T-Ball Field X X
Swenson Goose Lake
Estate 1.7 X
Log House Landing X
Bone Lake Park
(undeveloped) 26 X X X
Goose Lake Lot
(undeveloped) 5 X
Orwell Lot (undeveloped) 2.5 X
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Parks and Trails
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 63
4. Local Trails
There are few local trail systems in Scandia. There is an existing sidewalk along Oakhill
Road N and Olinda Trail N in the Old Village Area. The City also maintains the easement
from Oxboro Avenue North to William O’Brien State Park, shown in Figure VII-C, below.
This mowed grass trail provides access to the state park.
Figure VII-C – Maintained Easement to State Park
Maintained (mowed) easement to William O’Brien State Park
Proposed Parks and Trails
1. Regional Parks
There are no new regional parks currently proposed within the City of Scandia.
2. Regional Trails
The Scandia Comprehensive Trails Master Plan Report outlines three citywide trail loops,
a County trail, a rails-to-trails possible conversion, and connections to the proposed
Gateway Trail. Applicable maps from the plan have been included at the end of this
section. The following trail descriptions are excerpts from the Trails Master Plan:
Three Major Trail Routes
The major routes identified on the plan include the Big Marine Trail, Scandia/Marine Trail,
and Scandia North or Bone Lake Trail. These trails are proposed to be on-road trails,
designated by signage that will be developed by the Friends of Scandia Parks. The City will need
to approve trail signage on their respective roadways. The major trail loops are assumed to be on-
road trails that will primarily be used by bicyclists but may also be used by pedestrians.
Trunk Highway 97 Trail
The planning group identified a goal to explore creation of an off-road trail along portions of
Trunk Highway 97, from Odell Avenue to TH 95. The proposed off-road trail and TH 97
crossings are particularly needed near Scandia Elementary School. The City would need to work
with MN DOT to develop and fund this trail and the proposed crossings.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Parks and Trails
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 64
Soo Line Trail
The Master Plan includes a proposed Soo Line Trail route near the St. Croix River. This loop
would follow the existing Soo Line railroad tracks. This is currently an active rail line. The route
will be developed if the rail route is abandoned in the future. The trail surface should
accommodate biking and walking. The route would connect Scandia with Marine on St. Croix
and communities to the south and could connect with communities in Wisconsin. The proposed
trail would be an off-road route parallel to the St. Croix River and TH 95.
Gateway Trail (Connection to Swedish Immigrant Regional Trail)
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has acquired portions of the proposed route
of the Gateway Trail in Scandia. The proposed route travels from William O’Brien State Park to
the Village Area. The DNR has also identified a large search area for extension of the trail north
from the Village Area. The City of Lindstrom received a grant to help complete this extension,
connecting the segments of the Gateway Trail in Scandia to the Swedish Immigrant Regional
Trail in Lindstrom. The search area is shown on the County trail map in Appendix C.
Figures VII-D and VII-E identify proposed Scandia connections to the Gateway Trail from the
Scandia/Marine Trail and from sub-loops within the Village area.
Glacial Hill Regional Trail Search Corridor
While not in Scandia’s System Statement, the Glacial Hills Trail in Marine on St. Croix is
identified as running close to Scandia’s southeast border. This proposed regional trail will connect
the Hardwood Creek Regional Trail to the west with Big Marine Park Reserve to east. This
proposed trail does not have an approved master plan yet. The county will conduct a master
planning process for this trail in the future.
Figure VII-F shows proposed trail extensions and connections.
3. Local Trails
The Scandia Comprehensive Trails Master Plan Report outlines Village area sub loops to
the identified citywide loops as described here. Applicable maps from the plan have been
included at the end of this section.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Parks and Trails
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 65
Figure VII-D – Trails Planning Map
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Parks and Trails
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Figure VII-E – Trails Planning Map, Old Village
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Parks and Trails
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Figure VII-F - Proposed Local Parks and Trails
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Parks and Trails
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 68
Implementation
The Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan (2023) identified the following actions as
high priorities for implementation:
• Develop a connection between downtown Scandia and the Gateway Trail, which is
anticipated to extend north towards Scandia.
• Assist the Scandia Heritage Alliance in implementing its vision for the Water Tower Barn -
Scandia Arts & Heritage Center.
• Install a walking trail/boardwalk around the wetland behind the Scandia Community Center
building, connecting to the Water Tower Barn site.
• Convert the existing tennis courts at Scandia Community Center into a multi-use racket
sports area by painting four pickleball courts perpendicular to the tennis courts and
acquiring moveable pickleball nets.
• Repair/refinish the southwest corner of the racket sports area at Scandia Community
Center.
• Revamp Wind in the Pine Preserve’s primary trail entrance (off of St. Croix Trail N) with
new information kiosk and detailed trail map.
• Replace rink boards at Leonard Wojtowicz Skating Park.
• Add an unpaved walking trail, picnic table, and park identification signage to Liten Park.
Appendices
The Scandia Comprehensive Trails Master Plan Report is included in Appendix C.
The Official Map for Big Marine Park Reserve is included in Appendix D.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Transportation
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VIII. TRANSPORTATION
Overview
The primary purpose of this Transportation chapter is to provide guidance to City staff and
elected officials regarding the implementation of effective, integrated transportation facilities
and programs through the 2040 planning timeframe. This chapter is consistent with regional
requirements for transportation as captured in the Metropolitan Council’s 2040 Local Planning
Handbook.
This section is organized into the following sections:
• Existing Roadway Conditions
• Roadway System Plan
• Transit Plan
• Non-Motorized Transportation Plan
• Freight Plan
• Aviation Plan
Transportation Goals and Objectives
Goal: As new development or redevelopment occurs, provide an integrated, internally-
connected, efficient street system connecting village and higher density neighborhoods to the
Village Center.
Objectives:
• Discourage the creation of permanently long streets with only a single access point
(i.e., dead-end streets, looping streets and elongated cul-de-sacs).
• Encourage design and land uses that support a range of transportation choices
• Guide future development to roadways capable of accommodating resulting traffic.
• Develop roadways and street systems with consideration for safety, speeds,
congestion, impact and noise pollution
Goal: Establish context-sensitive roadway design standards that will protect the narrow and
heavily wooded character of identified low-traffic roadways. (Please refer to further
information on Context Sensitive Solutions in the Roadway System Plan portion of this
Transportation section.)
Objectives:
• Protect scenic rural roads, viewpoints and vistas identified through the planning
process from visually intrusive or incompatible development.
Goal: Maintain Scandia’s system of local roadways that is well coordinated with MN DOT and
Washington County Roadways.
Objectives:
• Develop a capital improvement program to ensure adequate funding for priority
roadway concerns.
• Cooperate with County and State jurisdictions to keep through-traffic on arterials at
minimum disruption of local circulation and residents.
• Through the subdivision review process for new developments, require that MN
DOT and Washington County access management guidelines be met for roadways
under the jurisdiction of those agencies, respectively.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Transportation
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Goal: Encourage the use of non-automotive modes of transportation.
Objectives:
• Use roadway design to establish bike and pedestrian friendly streets and
compliment recreational trails.
Goal: Support the development of regional and local transit options.
Objectives:
• Support efforts to provide more efficient delivery of dial-a-ride services for
Scandia residents, including but not limited to efforts to utilize the Village Center
as a focus of service.
Goal: Preserve the safety of regional air traffic.
Objectives:
• Notify MN DOT Aeronautics of any structure of a height of 200 feet above the
ground.
• Address federal and state safety standards when planning the design of any object
related to or affecting navigable airspace.
Existing Roadway Conditions
1. Existing Traffic Volumes and Crash Data
The most basic characteristic of a given roadway is the volume of traffic that it carries. Existing
traffic volumes on roadways within Scandia are presented on Figure VII-A. This is the most
current MN DOT data.
A preliminary safety review of a roadway network includes a crash review. The most recent
crash data for roadways in Scandia are also summarized on Figure VII-A. This shows all
intersection crashes over the last five years of record, plus any crashes involving fatalities
and/or incapacitating injuries regardless of location. Please note that system-wide crash data is
not available beyond 2015. While it is beyond the scope of this 2040 Comprehensive Plan to
provide a detailed safety analysis, the highest volumes of crashes are at the following
intersections:
• TH 97/CSAH 15 (Manning Avenue N) – eight crashes
• TH 97/CSAH 3 (Olinda Trail) – seven crashes
• TH 97/TH 95 – seven crashes
This is not surprising, given that that these are the three intersections in Scandia involving two
minor arterial roadways. In addition, there were two fatal crashes during this timeframe:
• 228th St east of County Road 91
• TH 95/220th Street
2. Jurisdictional Classification
Roadways are classified based on which level of government owns and has jurisdiction over
them. In the case of Scandia, roadways are under the jurisdiction of MN DOT, Washington
County, or the City of Scandia. Figure VII-B depicts the existing roadway jurisdictional
classification system in Scandia
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Transportation
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Figure VIII-A - Existing Traffic and Crash Data
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Transportation
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Figure VIII-B – Roadway Jurisdiction
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Transportation
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3. Functional Classification
The functional classification system is a roadway network that distributes traffic from
neighborhood streets to collector roadways, then to minor arterials, and ultimately the
Metropolitan Highway System. Roads are placed into categories based on the degree to which
they provide access to adjacent land uses and lower level roadways versus providing higher-
speed mobility for “through” traffic. Functional classification is a cornerstone of transportation
planning. Within this approach, roads are located and designed to perform their designated
function.
Within the seven-county metropolitan area, there are six overall classifications of roadway as
defined by the Metropolitan Council:
• Principal arterial
• “A” minor arterial
• Other arterial
• Major collector
• Minor collector
• Local street
The Metropolitan Council has defined four sub-categories of “A” minor arterials: reliever,
expander, connector, and augmenter. These sub-categories have to do primarily with
Metropolitan Council’s allocation of federal funding roadway improvements, but do not
translate into specific design characteristics or requirements.
For arterial roadways, the Metropolitan Council has designation authority. Local agencies may
request that their roadways become arterials (or are downgraded from arterial to collector), but
such designations or re-designations must be approved by the Metropolitan Council. The
agency that has jurisdiction over a given roadway (e.g. Washington County or the City of
Scandia) has the authority to designate collector status.
The current roadway functional classification map for Scandia as identified by the Metropolitan
Council is presented on Figure VIII-C. A summary of Scandia roadways by functional
classification follows.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Transportation
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Figure VIII-C – Functional Classification
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Transportation
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Principal Arterials
Principal arterials are the highest roadway classification and make up the Metropolitan
Highway System. The primary function of these roadways is to provide mobility for regional
trips, and they do not provide a direct land access function. Principal arterials are generally
constructed as limited access freeways but may also be multiple-lane divided highways. There
are no principal arterials within the City of Scandia.
“A” Minor Arterials
These roads connect important locations within the City of Scandia with access points of the
Metropolitan Highway System and with important locations outside the City. These arterials
are also intended to carry short to medium trips that would otherwise use principal arterials.
While “A” minor arterial roadways provide more access than principal arterials, their primary
function is still to provide mobility rather than access to lower level roadways or adjacent land
uses. The “A” minor arterial roadways within Scandia are identified in Table VIII-A, below:
Table VIII-A – “A” Minor Arterial Roadways
Roadway From To Number of Travel Lanes (Total)
TH 97/Scandia Trl N West City Limit TH 95 2
TH 95/St. Croix Trl N South City Limit North City Limit 2
CSAH 3/Olinda Trl N South City Limit North City Limit 2
CSAH 15/Manning Trl N South City Limit North City Limit 2
Other Arterials
Like “A” minor arterials, these roadways also serve more of a mobility function than access
function. However, they may not have as much regional importance as “A” minor arterials and
are not eligible for federal roadway improvement funding. There are no other arterials within
the City of Scandia.
Major and Minor Collectors
Collector roadways provide a balance of the mobility and land-use access functions discussed
above. They generally serve trips that are entirely within the City and connect neighborhoods
and smaller commercial areas to the arterial network. Minor collectors generally are shorter in
length, with lower volumes and lower speeds than major collectors. Current collector roadways
are identified in Table VIII-B, below.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Transportation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 76
Table VIII-B – Major and Minor Collector Roadways
Roadway From To Number Travel Lanes (total)
Major Collectors
CR91 (Lofton Ave N) TH 97 North City Limit 2
Minor Collectors
CR 50 (192nd St N) West City Limit CSAH 15 2
CR 52 (Oakhill Rd N) TH 97 TH 95 2
220th St N CSAH 3 TH 95 2
Nolan Ave N/238th St N Oakhill Rd CR 91 2
230th St N West City Limit CSAH 15
228th St N/Meadow Brook
Ave N/Oakhill Rd N CSAH 15 TH 97 2
240th St N CSAH 3 TH 95 2
Oxboro Ave N Old Marine Trl CR 52 2
Old Marine Trl N CSAH 3 South City Limit 2
205th St N Mayberry Trl CSAH 3 2
Maxwill Ave N/Lakamaga Trl
N/195th St N Mayberry Trl CSAH 3 2
Mayberry Trl N CSAH 15 Lofton Ave 2
Lofton Ave N/Mayberry Trl N TH 97 195th St 2
4. Summary of Relevant Transportation Studies
The only transportation corridor study involving roadways in Scandia since the 2030
Comprehensive Plan the TH 97 Access Study. MN DOT is currently leading this study with
Washington County, the City of Forest Lake, and the Metropolitan Council as project partners.
The study limits extend from TH 61 in Forest Lake to TH 15 (Manning Avenue) in Scandia.
The primary measures under review include:
• Conversion of existing bypass lanes to dedicated turn lanes
• Dedicated left and right turn lanes
• Access closure/consolidation
• Roadway widening for continuous shoulder
The primary benefit resulting from the measures being studied would be an enhanced of safety
conditions. It is estimated that the study will be completed at some point in 2018.
Roadway System Plan
1. Local Roadway Considerations
Local Roadway Extensions
Given the primarily low-density, rural nature of Scandia, the existing network of minor arterial
and collector roadways should be sufficient. However, as the community experiences moderate
growth, it will be important to identify potential new links. Land subdivision and site plan
reviewers should ensure that these missing links between local roadway segments are
eventually dedicated to form an interconnected rural street system.
Factors to consider in identifying new roadway segments include the following:
• Existing gaps and continuity of roadway alignments
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Transportation
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• Rural topography, wetlands, and other features
• Land use and zoning
• Market interest, parcel configuration, and anticipated build-out condition
Existing gaps in the local roadway network are identified on Figure VIII-D and include those
identified below:
• Location 1 – 230th Street N, between Meadowbrook Avenue N and existing 230th Street
N approximately 2,000 feet to the east.
• Location 2 – Meadowbrook Road N between Oakhill Road N and Meadowbrook Road
N at the 218th Street N alignment, approximately ½ mile north of TH 97
• Location 3 – Novak Avenue N between current northerly terminus and Oakhill Road N
approximately 2,000 feet to the north.
• Location 4 – 209th Street N from Penrose Avenue N to Quality Trail N (wetlands would
likely preclude a direct connection to 209th Street west of TH 95).
• Location 5 – Between Ozark Avenue N at 209th St N and Oxboro Avenue N at Oakhill
Road N (north-south continuous roadway)
• Location 6 – Between Olinda Lane N at Olinda Trail N and 215th Street N at Parrish
Road N
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Transportation
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Figure VIII-D – Local Roadway Gaps
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Transportation
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A common problem in developing rural areas is how to address the development of local streets
in the absence of a more detailed local street plan. The risks of a poorly planned and developed
street system include landlocked parcels, increased needs for direct access onto arterial roads,
parcels that require circuitous access, and/or parcels that have only one ingress/egress points
(e.g. long dead-end streets). Like other communities, Scandia requires that subdivisions
consider the interconnection of new local streets with future subdivisions and with applicable
state and county access management guidelines.
One concern among communities is the creation of long dead-end streets that become de facto
cul-de-sacs. While many communities identify maximum dead-end street length, Scandia
currently does not. Scandia should consider including this type of requirement through
ordinance restrictions.
Context Sensitive Solutions
Historically, roadway design was geared heavily towards providing large roads and systems
that could move vehicles as quickly and efficiently as possible. More recently, however, this
has changed and continues to change, based on the understanding that flexibility in roadway
design is needed to limit impacts to the local environment wherever possible. “Environment” is
not only used ecological sense, but the social and community character sense as well. This
overall trend is captured in the term and design practice “Context Sensitive Solutions.” The
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) uses the following definition:
“Context sensitive solutions (CSS) is a collaborative, interdisciplinary approach that
involves all stakeholders to develop a transportation facility that fits its physical setting
and preserves scenic, aesthetic, historic and environmental resources, while maintaining
safety and mobility. CSS is an approach that considers the total context within which a
transportation improvement project will exist.”
The FHWA references A Guide to Best Practices for Achieving Context Sensitive Solutions
(National Cooperative Highway Research Program) as being an authoritative resource.
Numerous other guidance documents are available.
As reflected in the City’s Transportation Goals at the beginning of this chapter, the City of
Scandia embraces this concept, particularly as it pertains to maintaining the relatively narrow
and wooded/natural context of many roadways within the City.
2. Trunk Highway 97 at County Road 52 (Oakhill Road N) Study Area
This intersection is a key Highway 97 crossing location for vehicles as well as pedestrians and
bicyclists. It warrants safety study due to the following characteristics:
• Pronounced skew, combined with being on a curve
• Topography (rise/fall) affecting sight lines
• Proximity of adjacent access points (Oren Avenue N 390 feet to the east, private
driveway 300 feet to the west)
Scandia Elementary School in the southwest quadrant of this intersection, Lilleskogen Park is in the
southeast quadrant, and the intersection provides important access point into the Village Center.
Development north of TH 97 in this general portion of Scandia would increase traffic coming down
Oakhill Road N, adding to safety considerations.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Transportation
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For the reasons summarized above, the City of Scandia will work with MN DOT and Washington
County to perform safety analysis as appropriate.
3. 2040 Traffic Projections and Capacity Deficiency Analysis
a) Assumed 2040 Collector/Arterial Roadway Network
Because no new collector/arterial roadways or expansions are programmed or planned over
the 2040 timeframe, the assumed 2040 roadway network is the same as the current network
for traffic forecasting purposes.
b) Assumed 2040 Land Use and Transportation Analysis Zone Information
Transportation Analysis Zones (TAZs) are used to project future traffic volumes. Each
TAZ has demographic and employment information that translates to vehicular trip origins
and destinations. A map of Scandia TAZs is provided in Figure VIII-E. The anticipated
future land use patterns discussed in the Land Use chapter of this Comprehensive Plan were
assumed for the 2040 TAZ allocations identified in Table VIII-C, below.
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Figure VIII-E – Transportation Analysis Zones
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Transportation
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Table VIII-C – 2040 Scandia TAZ Data
TAZ Year Population Households Retail Jobs Non-Retail Jobs Total Jobs
2281* 2020 94 38 0 14 14
2030 110 49 0 14 14
2040 130 55 0 14 14
2282* 2020 113 48 0 0 0
2030 113 48 0 0 0
2040 113 48 0 0 0
2283* 2020 310 130 0 0 0
2030 323 137 0 0 0
2040 339 144 0 0 0
2284 2020 220 80 0 12 12
2030 235 90 0 23 23
2040 250 100 10 25 35
2285 2020 450 180 10 22 32
2030 470 196 10 30 40
2040 490 210 10 30 40
2286 2020 710 280 10 65 75
2030 770 310 10 77 87
2040 801 340 10 79 89
2287 2020 910 356 30 90 120
2030 1,006 413 30 93 123
2040 1,081 460 30 95 127
2288 2020 510 198 10 42 52
2030 550 230 13 50 63
2040 581 250 15 50 65
2289 2020 190 80 0 20 20
2030 220 90 0 20 20
2040 241 99 10 20 30
2290 2020 0 0 0 20 20
2030 10 0 10 20 30
2040 21 9 10 20 30
2291 2020 400 160 50 170 220
2030 430 180 55 180 235
2040 461 199 60 185 245
2292* 2020 353 150 5 50 55
2030 393 167 5 50 55
2040 442 186 8 50 55
TOTALS 2020 4,260 1,700 115 505 620
2030 4,630 1,910 133 557 690
2040 4,950 2,100 163 568 730
*Please note: the information for these TAZs is only for the portion of the TAZ within Scandia.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Transportation
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c) 2040 Traffic Projections
Estimated 2040 traffic volumes for roadways in Forest Lake are presented in Figure VIII-F.
These projections are based on the following methodology:
• Review of forecasts from the 2030 Scandia Comprehensive Plan
• Historic trend analysis for volumes on individual roadway segments
• Consideration of local context and anticipated development patterns
• Comparison with the results of Washington County’s 2040 forecasts
d) Future Capacity Needs Evaluation
A planning level analysis of potential roadway capacity needs was performed, based on
comparing the projected 2040 traffic volumes referenced above against the expected traffic
capacity for the applicable roadway types that are present in Scandia. The roadway capacity
levels were estimated based on Highway Capacity Manual (HCM) guidance and methods. The
HCM, published by the Transportation Research Board,2 provides transportation practitioners
and researchers with a consistent and widely accepted system of techniques for assessing
roadway capacity and operational performance characteristics.
Table VIII-D – Typical Traffic Capacity by Roadway Type/Configuration – Roadways in Scandia
Roadway Design Planning Level Capacity (vehicles per day)
2-lane local/residential road 1,000
Rural 2-lane minor collector 7,700
Rural 2-lane highway (major collector/minor arterial) 13,000
Source: Bolton & Menk, Inc., Sixth Edition HCM methods
The resulting analysis shows that none of the roadways within Scandia are projected to be at or
approaching capacity by 2040. Therefore, no capacity expansion projects are identified in this
transportation plan.
2 The Transportation Research Board is a unit of the National Academy of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine.
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Figure VIII-F – 2040 Traffic Volumes
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Transportation
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4. Future Functional Classification
Re-designations of roadways involving the A-minor arterial functional classification (e.g. from
collector to arterial, from arterial to collector, or changing designations within arterial) is under
the authority of the Metropolitan Council. For collector roadways, the functional class
designation is under the authority of the agency that owns the given road.
The City of Scandia does not feel that any roadways within its borders need to be re-classified
from a functional classification perspective. The City is not aware that MN DOT or
Washington County wish to advance any such re-classifications. Therefore, Figure VIII-C is the
functional classification map for current and 2040 conditions.
5. Future Jurisdictional Classification
The City of Scandia does not anticipate a request for jurisdictional transfers regarding roadways
within its borders through the 2040 timeframe. Moreover, the City is not aware that
Washington County or MN DOT desire any such transfers. Therefore, Figure VIII-B identifies
both current and future jurisdictional classification information.
6. Access Management
Access management refers to balancing the need for connections to local land uses (access)
with the need for network-level movement (mobility) on the overall roadway system. By
functional classification, this may be summarized as follows:
• Arterials generally have limited access in the form of driveways and low volume side
streets because their role in the network is to support relatively long, high speed traffic
movements
• Collectors allow a greater degree of access given their combined mobility/access
function
• Local streets have relatively few limits on access because their primary function is to
provide access to adjacent land uses
Appropriate access control preserves the capacity on arterial and collector streets and improves
safety by separating local turning movements from higher-speed “through” traffic. Moreover, it
concentrates higher volume traffic linkages at intersections controlled with traffic signals,
roundabouts, or other measures.
MN DOT and Washington County Roadways in Scandia are identified on Figure VIII-B. For
MN DOT roadways, MN DOT access management guidelines apply. Similarly, for County
roadways, Washington County’s access management guidelines apply. MN DOT’s access
management guidelines are described in detail in their Access Management Manual.3
http://www.dot.state.mn.us/accessmanagement/resources.html When reviewing MN DOT’s
access guidelines, TH 97 in Scandia is classified as 5B (minor arterial, urban/urbanizing), and
TH 95 is classified as 5A (minor arterial, rural). Relevant MN DOT and Washington County
guidelines, respectively, are provided in Appendix E.
3 http://www.dot.state.mn.us/accessmanagement/resources.html
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Land use planning and subdivision regulation are the responsibility of the City. In conjunction
with local land planning, Scandia will require that new land development complies with MN
DOT and County access management guidelines as applicable. The City will work with MN
DOT and Washington County to consolidate driveway and street access to collector and arterial
roadways where applicable and feasible.
7. Future Right-of-Way Preservation
The City has not defined specific corridors for roadway development where right-of-way can
be defined and preserved at this point.
Transit Plan
1. Transit Market Area
The Metropolitan Council has defined Transit Market Areas based on the following primary
factors:
• Density of population and jobs
• Interconnectedness of the local street system
• Number of autos owned by residents
In general, areas with high density of population and jobs, highly interconnected local streets,
and relatively low auto ownership rates will have the greatest demand for transit services and
facilities. Transit Market Areas are a tool used to guide transit planning decisions. They help
ensure that the types and levels of transit service provided, in particular fixed-route bus service,
match the anticipated demand for a given community or area.
Based on this analysis, the Metropolitan Council categorizes the City of Scandia as Transit
Market Area V. As identified in Appendix G of the Metropolitan Council’s 2040
Transportation Policy Plan (TPP), the characteristics of this category area are as follows:
Transit Market Area V has very low population and employment densities and tends to be
primarily Rural communities and Agricultural uses. General public dial-a-ride service may be
appropriate here, but due to the very low-intensity land uses these areas are not well-suited for
fixed-route transit service.
Also, from Appendix G of the 2040 TPP (Table G-2), the typical transit service within this
Market Area consists of:
Not well-suited for fixed-route service. Primary emphasis is on general public dial-a-ride
services.
2. Current and Planned Service Facilities
a) Scheduled Transit Service
Consistent with the Metropolitan Council classifying Scandia as Transit Area V, there is no
scheduled transit service serving Scandia due to lack of demand. This includes no service
or facilities in the following categories:
• Scheduled local bus service
• High-frequency routes
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• Peak hour commuter bus service
• Rapid Bus Service
• Light Rail Transit (LRT) or Bus Rapid Transit (BRT)
• Transit facilities
• Transit advantages
The City of Scandia is not aware of any planned scheduled transit service within the City.
b) Dial-a-Ride Service
• Demand responsive transit service for all communities in Washington County is
provided by Metropolitan Council Metropolitan Transportation Services (MTS)
and consists of complementary services that are compliant with Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA), as well as general public dial-a-ride services. Transit Link
is the Twin Cities dial-a-ride minibus or van service for the general public where
regular route service is not available. Fares are based on time of day and distance
traveled.
These services are anticipated to continue in their current form into the foreseeable future.
Non-Motorized Transportation Plan
Existing and planned non-motorized transportation features in Scandia are discussed and
mapped in the Parks and Trails element of this 2040 Comprehensive Plan.
Metropolitan Council has designated the Regional Bicycle Transportation Network (RBTN).
This consists of prioritized alignments and corridors (where alignments have not yet been
established) that were adopted in the Council’s 2040 Transportation Policy Plan. There are no
RBTN alignments or corridors within or close to Scandia.
The largely rural nature of Scandia is not conducive to extensive pedestrian travel. The most
significant barrier to non-motorized movement would be TH 97, an east-west highway that
passes through central portion of Scandia and the northern portion of the Village Center area.
There is currently an all-way stop at the TH 97/Olinda Trail intersection that provides
protection for pedestrians using the sidewalk along Olinda Trail. Any future north-south trail
development would require appropriate crossing treatments at TH 97. Any safety study of the
TH 97 County Road 52 (Oakhill Road N) intersection as referenced above will include a non-
motorized transportation component.
Freight Plan
One railroad passes through the eastern fringes of Scandia from south to north. The railroad
tracks are owned by the Canadian National Railway and approximately two trains per week
utilize the railroad tracks, based on MN DOT information. There are no manufacturing or
distribution centers in Scandia. Freight movement is not a major factor for the City. Existing
HCAADT information is depicted in Figure VIII-A.
Aviation Plan
There are no aviation facilities or navigational aids located in Scandia. At present, the only
suggested air facilities considered in Scandia would be a seaplane base on Big Marine Lake.
The city is not in an influence area of a regional airport. The closest public-use airport to
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Scandia is the Osceola Municipal Airport (FAA Identifier OEO) located approximately 2.5
miles to the east-northeast. OEO is categorized as a Medium General Aviation Airport in
Wisconsin’s 2030 State Airport System Plan. As such, it is primarily used for recreational
flying with some business use and is not anticipated to increase operations significantly over
the next 20 years. Scandia is outside all federal airspace restrictions and state zoning controls
for OEO. Scandia is not in a primary flight path of OEO.
There are no structures within Scandia that exceed 500 feet in height. Any applicant who
proposes to construct a structure 200 feet above the ground that could affect navigable airspace
level must get appropriate approvals. The Federal Aviation Administration and the Minnesota
Department of Transportation must be notified at least 30 days in advance in advance of
construction, as required by law per MCAR 8800.1200, Subpart 3 and FAA Form 7460-8. It is
unlikely such a structure would be proposed in Scandia.
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IX. WATER RESOURCES
Water Resource Goals and Policies
Goal: Preserve and protect the quantity and quality of surface water and groundwater.
Objectives:
• Work cooperatively with all State and Federal agencies to comply with and enforce
regulations and standards such as Shoreland Management Regulations, Erosion and
Sediment Control Standards, Floodplain Regulations, and Stormwater
management.
• Identify sensitive groundwater recharge areas and groundwater dependent natural
resources to guide development and land use to minimize potential contamination
and incompatible uses.
• Require developers to restore the ability of soils to absorb, retain, and infiltrate
water following site development.
Goal: Improve stormwater management and land stewardship practices.
Objectives:
• Provide educational resources and materials to residents and businesses regarding
water quality, stormwater runoff, best management practices, and impaired waters.
• Incorporate low-impact techniques and best management practices on City owned
property.
Goal: Protect the natural and scenic resources of the St. Croix River Corridor, both within and
adjacent to the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway.
Objectives:
• Work cooperatively with the National Park Service, Department of Natural
Resources, and Carnelian Marine St. Croix Watershed District and adopt their
Local Water Management Plans.
Goal: Ensure financial and environmental accountability for installation, maintenance,
remediation, and management of any permitted private wastewater system.
Objectives:
• In cooperation with Washington County, enforce strict conformance with
regulations for the design, installation, and maintenance of on-site treatment
systems including minimum design, licensing, and installation requirements of the
Minnesota Rules Chapter 7080.
Wastewater
1. Forecasts
According the Metropolitan Council population, household, and employment forecasts and
City data, the City of Scandia will have the following sewer demands, as detailed in Table
IX-A.
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Table IX-A – Population, Housing, & Employment Sewer Allocation Forecasts
Forecast Component 2010 2020 2030 2040
Population
Unsewered 3,538 3,863 4,232 4,550
Private Systems 105 105 105 105
Public Systems 291 292 293 295
Total 3,934 4,260 4,630 4,950
Households
Unsewered 1,346 1,548 1,758 1,948
Private Systems 40 40 40 40
Public Systems 112 112 112 112
Total 1,498 1,700 1,910 2,100
Employment
Unsewered 484 583 651 690
Private Systems 0 0 0 0
Public Systems 35 37 39 40
Total 519 620 690 730
2. Existing System
The existing wastewater treatment system is comprised of several on-site septic systems,
two private wastewater treatment systems, and three small public wastewater systems.
a) Private On-Site Septic Systems
Wastewater treatment for residents of Scandia consists primarily of on-site septic
systems, shown in Figure IX-A. The city engineer has record of 1,426 on-site septic
systems in Scandia, including both households and employment establishments.
Responsibility for installation and maintenance of on-site septic systems lies with the
property owner. All systems must be installed and maintained to meet the standards of
the Washington County Subsurface Sewage Treatment System Ordinance, which is
consistent with Minnesota Rules Chapter 7080. The County’s SSTS Ordinance is
codified in the Development Code in Chapter 4, Ordinance #206. This ordinance
provides the basis for the County’s SSTS program, including requirements for
compliance inspections of existing systems, permitting and inspection of new systems,
site review, maintenance requirements, and operating permits for advanced treatment
systems (Type IV).
The City of Scandia has delegated responsibility for septic inspections to Washington
County. Washington County Ordinance 206, Section 22, requires owners of septic
systems to have tanks pumped at least once every three years. Washington County also
requires inspections at the point of sale for systems older than five years or for systems
that do not have a current compliance inspection, and these inspections are recorded
with the County. If Washington County becomes aware of non-compliant systems, the
County requires replacement of those systems.
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Figure IX-A – Existing Subsurface Sewage Systems
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b) Private Wastewater Systems
(1) The Tii Gavo (Permit MN0068217, expires 1/31/2028)
The Tii Gavo on Big Marine Lake WWTP facility is located at 2108 Olinda Trail
N, Scandia, Minnesota 55073, Washington County.
The Tii Gavo system on Big Marine Lake development is a 15-residential family
home development located in Washington County. The development includes
three-bedroom and four-bedroom units. The facility has a total wet weather
design flow of 13,065 gallons per day. The facility is designed based on a
CBOD5 loading of 21.1 lbs. per day (0.18 lb. per capita per day), a TSS loading
of 23.4 lbs. per day (0.02 lb. per capita per day), a total nitrogen loading of 3.2
lbs. per day (0.027 lbs. per capita per day), and a total phosphorus loading of 0.9
lbs. per day (0.008 lbs. per capita/day).
The facility consists of two 26,250 gallon compartmentalized septic tanks with
effluent filters in the last tank, one 8,438-gallon denitrification tank with carbon
source addition, one 7,500-gallon recirculation tank, one 3,300 square foot
recirculating gravel filter, one 10,000 gallon dosing tank, and six drip dispersal
zones totaling 33,120 square feet of infiltrative surface with an additional 11,040
square feet for reserve drainfield area. This is a Class C facility.
There are no designated bypass points in the treatment system. The permit
authorizes no discharge to surface waters. The facility is further described in
plans and specification on file with the MPCA.
(2) The Wyldewood Acres (Permit MN 0066567, expired 5/31/2018 but can
continue operations until issued a new permit by MPCA)
The Wyldewood Acres Wastewater Treatment Facility is located at SE ¼ of SE
¼ of section 15, Township 32 North, Range 20 West, Scandia, Washington
County, Minnesota. This is a Class D facility.
Major components of the Facility include:
27 Individual Grinder Pumps
1 Septic Tank (7,500 gal)
1 Septic Tank (7,500 gal) -compartmentalized
1 Constructed Wetland -subsurface flow (9,000 sq. ft.)
3 Subsurface Mounds (19,718 sq. ft.)
The facility is designed for 25 three and a half -bedroom homes and four three-
bedroom homes in Scandia.
Each house has an individual grinder pump, which pumps the sewage through a
two-inch high-density polyethylene low pressure force main, approximately
4,000 feet in length. Wastewater flows through magnetic influent flow meters
prior to two septic tanks operated in series. Both are 7,500 gallons; the first is un-
compartmentalized and the second has two compartments. The second tank
contains effluent filters. Next, wastewater is processed by one 9,000 square foot
constructed wetland treatment system. A 5,000 gallon dosing tank doses a 19,718
square foot drainfield system (pressurized infiltration chambers), which consists
of three zones with dedicated pumps to alternate usage of the zones.
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The Average Wet Weather (AWW) design flow is 8,925 gallons per day (gpd).
The influent five-day Biochemical Oxygen Demand concentration is
approximately 250 milligrams per liter (mg/L), and the Total Suspended Solids
concentration is approximately 250 mg/L.
There are no designated bypass points in the treatment system. The SDS Permit
authorizes no discharge to surface waters.
c) Public Wastewater Treatment Systems
There are three public wastewater treatment systems in Scandia serving multiple lots
and structures, shown in Figure IX-B. The operation, maintenance, and user charges for
these public systems are governed by City of Scandia Ordinance No. 189, included in
Appendix F of this comprehensive plan.
(1) Bliss Sewage Treatment Facility
The Bliss Sewage Treatment Facility’s treatment area is located on the western
side of Big Marine Lake, off of Manning Trail North. The facility serves 79
homes along Manning Trail North from the treatment area north to 191st Street
North to the homes along Langley Avenue North, Layton Avenue North, Lamar
Avenue North, and 185th Street North. It consists of three septic tanks totaling
7,500 gallons, three 15,000 square foot sand filters that are dosed by a lift station,
and three drainfield trench cells (1,200 feet per cell) which are dosed by a second
lift station. Based on drawdown tests performed in the spring of 2017, the two
pumps in LS #3 (dosing the sand filters) have capacities of approximately 300
and 250 gallons per minute, while the pumps in LS #4 (dosing the trench cells)
have capacities of about 110 and 190 gallons per minute. It processes an average
of around 7,000 gallons per day during the winter months and 11,000 during the
wettest summer months but has a permitted capacity of 19,800 gallons per day.
This system has had some issues with high nitrate levels in one of the monitoring
wells surrounding the facility. Currently, treatment options are being considered
to mitigate this issue. Additional connections to this system will be greatly
limited until improvements or upgrades are made to the system, given the nitrate
issues. Improvements to this system will need to be made to accommodate new
development, as development occurs.
(2) Anderson/Erikson Sewage Treatment Facility
The Anderson/Erikson Sewage Treatment Facility’s treatment area is located on
the eastern side of Big Marine Lake at the southern end of Norell Avenue North.
The system serves 33 homes along Norell Avenue North and those along 188th
Street North to the intersection with Newgate Avenue North. The
Anderson/Erikson Lift Station, which doses the drainfields, had pump capacities
of roughly 65 and 70 gallons per minute based on the 2017 drawdown tests. The
drainfield system itself was originally designed to treat 6,700 gallons per day.
Recent flows indicate that the system is treating slightly less than this amount, on
average, but regularly exceeds this capacity during peak days and months of the
year. Based on this information, the system is at capacity, and any other additions
to it would require further examination to assess the system’s capacity and
potential for expansion.
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(3) Uptown Wastewater Community Collector System
The Uptown Wastewater Community Collector System’s Treatment area is
located on Olinda Trail North, southeast of the village. The system serves Elim
Lutheran Church and the parsonage, the Scandia Café, the Scandia Store, the
Scandia Veterinary Clinic, the Country Messenger, the bank building, Schmitt
Mall, the Community and Senior Center, and the Gammelgarden. These nine
businesses currently have approximately 35 employees. The system was
expanded in 1999 for the Community Center and again in 2001 for the
Gammelgarden. In 2012, an equalization tank and an aerobic treatment tank,
complete with blower and air diffuser, were added to the system to treat nitrogen
and phosphorus in the wastewater, and to mitigate peak flows which are higher
than the system’s design capacity. The trench drain laterals comprise 2,250 feet
and 6,750 square feet of adsorption area. With the increased treatment provided
by the aeration, the design capacity of the system is approximately 4,050 gallons
per day. The average flow entering the system is 2,025 gallons per day and the
peak flow is about 7,500 gallons per day. Because this system serves venues that
frequently have highly-trafficked events that create high flows (e.g., the church
and community center), it has been determined that the system is essentially at
capacity. While the equalization basin functions to smooth out flow peaks,
addition of another institutional or commercial customer to the system could
prove too much for it and undermine treatment effectiveness. There is room on
the property to double the size of the drainfield. However, if the system is
expanded in the near future, then at some possible point further in the future, if
the drainfield fails due to solids loading of the ground, an entirely new site may
have to be found for construction of a new treatment system. This scenario
should be considered before adding additional customers to the Uptown system.
.
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Figure IX-B - Existing Public Wastewater System
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3. Capacity and Maintenance
The Bliss treatment system could still accept some additional flow before it reaches
capacity, around 6,000 gallons per day. However, the high nitrate level issues must be
addressed, either by expanding the system or adding a focused treatment process to remove
nitrate.
The Anderson/Erikson system is essentially at its design capacity, and it should be
evaluated before the addition of any more flow is considered. In general, it operates
nominally under capacity during average flow but above it during peak flows.
The Uptown Wastewater Community Collector System is also essentially at its capacity of
about 4,000 gallons per day. As with the Anderson/Erikson system, during normal flows it
operates below capacity, while during peak flows capacity is surpassed. The city’s future
land use plan expands the Village Center area to accommodate residential and commercial
growth. The City of Scandia owns land suitable for mound system expansion, adjacent to
the existing Uptown drainfield system. However, before considering adding more
properties to the collector system or expanding the drainfield, it should be considered that if
the drainfield is expanded, an entirely new location will need to be found for treatment in
the future when the current system reaches the end of its life (via solids loading of the soil).
For all systems discussed above, regular maintenance is key. Each of the systems has
numerous of inspection pipes, which allow water levels to be monitored and blockages
cleared in the drainfields. The tops of many of these inspection pipes have been damaged
and/or the caps lost, either by accidental collision while mowing or other causes. This has
the potential to allow dirt and debris into the system, causing blockages and issues, and
these pipes require maintenance and replacement as needed. Additionally, animal
encroachment, specifically gophers, have been noted in the vicinity of the systems. These
should be dealt with regularly, as in their burrowing they can do a great deal of damage to
this type of treatment system.
In general, new development will need to provide for their own wastewater systems. The
reliance on individual systems for future growth and development in the City will influence
development densities and lot sizes. Since new development will need to provide their own
wastewater, the City will consider allowing private community treatment systems on a
case-by-case basis. Installation and management requirements must follow all City and
County ordinances. Private community systems may be developed and overseen by the
county, provided they meet the conditions of the county’s ordinance for midsize sewage
treatment systems. Systems larger than 10,000 gallons per day are permitted by the MPCA.
4. Community and Subsurface Treatment Systems
The City of Scandia’s Development Code 13.14.2 states,
“Where lots cannot be connected with a public sewer system, provision must be made for
sanitary sewer facilities consisting of an individual disposal device for each lot. Such
provision shall be in accordance with Chapter Four of the Washington County
Development Code, Subsurface Sewage Treatment Systems Regulations.”
Installation of individual sewage treatment systems into low swampy areas, drainage
swales, floodplains or other areas subject to recurrent flooding is prohibited.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, individual sewage treatment systems in existence may
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continue in use if they are repaired and maintained in conformity with the requirements of
existing City and County Ordinances and maybe replaced if normal repairs and
maintenance to the existing system would not reasonably be expected to permit such
system to operate in conformity with the requirements of existing ordinances. Individual
Sewage Treatments Systems shall not be located within utility or drainage easements nor
within dedicated public or private rights-of –way without proper approvals.
The construction of community sewage treatment systems may be provided for all lots
within a subdivision, providing they meet applicable MPCA and Washington County
Health Department requirements and an entity other than lot owners or the City of Scandia
can demonstrate capability of operating and maintaining the system. This may be done as
an alternative to either individual sewage treatment systems or a public sewer system.
Subsurface sewage treatment systems in the City of Scandia are also subject to regulations
in Chapter Four of Washington County’s Development Code, adopted in 2015.
Surface Water
1. Background
The City completed its Local Water Management Plan (LWMP), and it is currently under
final review by relevant watershed districts. The plan serves as a comprehensive planning
document to guide the City in conserving, protecting and managing its surface water
resources. The plan was developed to meet the requirements of Minnesota Statutes 103B and
Minnesota Rules 8410, to be consistent with the goals and policies of the Metropolitan
Council’s Water Resources Management Policy Plan, and the goals and policies of the three
watershed management organizations that have jurisdiction within the City. The plan and its
amendments will be adopted by the City as an element of this Comprehensive Plan.
The LWMP includes a detailed description of the City’s natural resources, including water
resources, past studies and inventories, and current surface water management. An
assessment of the existing and potential water resource and stormwater related concerns
within the City and associated corrective actions are provided. The LWMP also includes
goals and policies to address the long-term surface water management needs in the City, and
outlines the regulations, standards, practices, projects and funding that will be needed to
implement the goals and policies.
The lakes and other critical environmental features in Scandia are one of the reasons the City
is an attractive place to live. However, residential development on and near these lakes can
impact the water quality and wildlife habitat if not properly managed. One of the primary
concerns is the impact of impervious surfaces on water quality. In order to protect lakes from
the negative impacts of development, federal, state and local authorities have established
rules that protect natural resources against the impacts of development. The City of Scandia is
generally subject to the following regulatory authority and strategic plans.
• City of Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan
• City of Scandia Ordinances
• Carnelian Marine-St. Croix Watershed District, Watershed Management Plan, amended
2015
• Comfort Lake-Forest Lake Watershed District, Watershed Management Plan, 2012-2021
• Rice Creek Watershed District, 2010 Watershed Management Plan, updates in 2020
• City of Scandia Comprehensive Plan Update, 2018
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• City of Scandia Development Code, 2011
• City of Scandia, Shoreland Management Regulations, 2007
• Washington County Groundwater Plan, 2014
• Washington County Model Groundwater Rules, 2004
• North and East Metro Groundwater Management Area Plan, 2015
• Minnesota Department of Natural Resources North & East Metro Groundwater, 2015
Management Area Plan
2. Watershed Management Organizations
Scandia is located in three watershed districts: Carnelian Marine-St. Croix, Comfort Lake-
Forest Lake, and Rice Creek. This section briefly describes the most recent local water
management plan for each of the three watershed districts within the City of Scandia,
followed by a comparison of the goals, objectives and policies of each plan. Management
districts and subwatersheds are also noted. Subwatershed plans provide more geographic
and issue specific management within the larger watershed. Figure IX-C shows the
watershed management organization boundaries within Scandia.
Carnelian Marine-St. Croix Watershed District, Watershed Management Plan, 2015
About 78% of the City of Scandia falls within the CMSCWD, encompassing the eastern
and southern halves of the city. The Carnelian Marine-St. Croix Watershed District’s
(CMSCWD) most recent watershed management plan was created in 2011 and was
amended in 2015 to better address invasive species and groundwater quality. The plan
contains the goals, policies and management plans of the CMSCWD and guides the
watershed’s activities until 2020. CMSCWD also developed individual lake and stream
plans for all waterbodies in the District.
The plan includes a Focused Watershed Management process based on three levels of
activity:
• Routine Watershed Management for the non-impaired water resources of the
District—these are the basic, day-to-day programs implemented throughout
the District.
• Impaired Watershed Management for water resources that are classified as
impaired waters—includes completion of TMDL studies for impaired
waters and implementation of the recommendations from these studies
• Focused Watershed Management for non-impaired waters—includes efforts
to protect non-impaired waters so they do not become impaired, by
enhancing routine management activities on identified water bodies.
CMSCWD completed a district-wide Wetland Management Plan in July 2010 and amended
the plan in September of 2015. An electronic version of the plan is available on the
District’s website. The plan includes a wetland function and value assessment, wetland
management goals, management standards, buffer standards, and identification of Wetland
Preservation Areas within the District.
Based on the functions and values assessment, the plan includes a wetland classification
system with four categories. The categories include:
• High Quality/Highest Priority
• Stream Corridor and Shoreland Wetlands
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• Isolated Wetlands
• Utilized Wetlands
Comfort Lake-Forest Lake Watershed District, Watershed Management Plan, 2011
The northwest quadrant of the city falls within the Comfort Lake-Forest Lake Watershed
District (CLFLWD). Drainage from the watershed enters the Sunrise River, a tributary of
the St. Croix River. The CLFLWD’s most recent watershed management plan was created
in 2011 with revisions adopted and approved by the BWSR in August 2015. The plan
contains the goals, objectives, and actions of the CLFLWD and guides the watershed’s
activities until 2021.
The CLFLWD plan has eight core goals areas:
• Floodplains
• Lakes
• Streams
• Wetlands
• Uplands Resources
• Groundwater
• Public Education
• Interagency Coordination
Most of Scandia within the CLFLWD falls within the Bone Lake Management District. A
small portion of the city (northwestern most corner) belongs in the Little Comfort Lake
Management District. CLFLWD developed a Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) plan
for Bone Lake, discussed below in the section on Impaired Waters. The District completed
a Partially Drained Wetland Assessment in 2014.
Rice Creek Watershed District, Watershed Management Plan, 2010 (amended 2016)
The Rice Creek Watershed District’s (RCWD) most recent watershed management plan
was created in 2010. The plan contains the objectives, policies, and management strategies
of the RCWD and guides the watershed’s activities until 2020. Only 0.2% of the City of
Scandia falls within the RCWD. This area encompasses all of White Rock Lake and is part
of the Hardwood Creek Planning Region. The primary issues within the Hardwood Creek
Planning Region are related to water levels within Rice Lake, the lack of a well-defined
regulatory floodplain along the Hardwood Creek, and appropriate management methods for
Hardwood Creek and its riparian corridor.
The RCWD’s 2010 Watershed Management Plan has eight objectives:
• Increase knowledge, awareness, and capacity for decision-making among
District constituents
• Manage water systems for their ecological and community value
• Recognize the origin and interconnectedness of water systems while planning
for current and future needs
• Improve diversity and ecological integrity of wetlands
• Minimize damage to infrastructure and property caused by flooding and
excessive runoff
• Capitalize on open space opportunities to enhance water quality, reduce runoff
volume, and enhance ecological resources
• Incorporate groundwater into the decision-making process
• Manage District property and resources responsibly
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Figure IX-C - Watershed Drainage Area
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3. Physical Environment and Land Use
Public waters are all water basins and watercourses that meet the criteria set forth in
Minnesota Statutes, § 103.005, subd. 15. Of the many wetlands and water bodies within the
city’s boundaries, 40 of them have been classified as public waters in accordance with the
guidelines of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.
Public waters within Scandia range in size from 2 acres to nearly 2,000 acres of water
surface and include several water bodies of regional significance. Table IX-B provides
information on all public waters and their acreage. The St. Croix River, a federally
designated National Scenic Riverway, forms the eastern border of the city. Big Marine
Lake, in the southwestern portion of the city, is the second largest lake in Washington
County. Existing and future development in areas surrounding public waters should be
carefully managed and planned to prevent adverse impact on water resources.
a) National Wetland Inventory
The National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) is a national program sponsored by the US
Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). Based on the NWI data, the City of Scandia has
approximately 2,900 acres of wetlands based on the NWI data. Additional wetland
information is summarized in the City’s Local Water Management Plan and the
CMSCWD Wetland Management Plan (2015).
b) Existing and Future Land Use: While Scandia allows for a variety of land uses,
development densities are low to maintain the rural character of the community and to
be compatible with agricultural uses. Residential development densities range from 0.1
to 0.4 units per acre. Commercial, retail, and industrial land uses are guided to be near
existing infrastructure, including water and wastewater services. Likewise, the city
anticipates a majority of residential growth to occur in and around the Village
Neighborhood Zoning District, which is primarily centered around the historical city
center. The Village Neighborhood Zoning District encompasses Goose Lake and
borders the western shore of Big Marine Lake. The expansion of the Village
Neighborhood Zoning District will reduce the amount of land zoned for agriculture or
rural densities (4 units/40 acres). Low densities will be maintained to accommodate
agriculture. Comprehensive land use descriptions can be found in the Land Use section
of the Comprehensive Plan.
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Table IX-B – Waterbodies within Scandia
Water Body Name Public Water
Inventory ID
Shoreland Management
Classification Acres
Alice 82-287 P Natural Environment 26.03
Big Marine 82-052 P Recreational Development 1902.59
Bone 82-054 P Recreational Development 218.47
Clear 82-078 W Natural Environment 35.28
Elwell 82-079 W Natural Environment 18.86
Falls Creek (Section 1.6.7.12) Wild and Scenic -
Fish 82-064 P Natural Environment 64.99
German 82-056 P Natural Environment 151.20
Goose 82-059 P Natural Environment 84.04
Hay 82-065 P Natural Environment 59.32
Keewahtin 82-080 P Recreational Development 108.25
Long 82-068 P Natural Environment 46.12
Nielson 82-055 W Natural Environment 49.65
Pitzl Pond 82-282 W Natural Environment 36.19
Rasmussen Pond 82-070 W Natural Environment 18.24
Sand 82-067 P Natural Environment 47.41
Sea 82-053 W Natural Environment 51.67
St. Croix River 82-001 P Wild and Scenic River -
Washington 82-169 W Natural Environment 22.34
White Rock 82-072 P Natural Environment 80.88
Wojtowicz Pond 82-058 W Natural Environment 16.8
Unnamed 82-057 W Natural Environment 27.52
Unnamed 82-060 W Natural Environment 26.26
Unnamed 82-061 W Natural Environment 14.37
Unnamed 82-062 W Natural Environment 17.44
Unnamed 82-066 W Natural Environment 33.75
Unnamed 82-081 W Natural Environment 41.29
Unnamed 82-171 W Natural Environment 14.54
Unnamed 82-172 W Natural Environment 26.95
Unnamed 82-173 W Natural Environment 10.49
Unnamed 82-174 W Natural Environment 26.49
Unnamed 82-210 W Natural Environment 25.12
Unnamed 82-211 W Natural Environment 10.84
Unnamed 82-212 W Natural Environment 17.46
Unnamed 82-213 W Natural Environment 10.88
Unnamed 82-280 W Natural Environment 19.48
Unnamed 82-281 W Natural Environment 7.46
Unnamed 82-283 P Natural Environment 8.46
Unnamed 82-284 P Natural Environment 2.08
Unnamed 82-285 P Natural Environment 14.73
Unnamed 82-286 P Natural Environment 5.17
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4. Existing and Potential Water Resource Related Problems
In 2015, 12 lakes in or partially located in Scandia were monitored as part of the
Metropolitan Council’s Citizen-Assisted Monitoring Program (CAMP). In this program,
lakes are sampled every two weeks from mid-April through mid-October. During each
sampling, temperature, dissolved oxygen, and Secchi depth transparency were measured
and recorded. A surface water sample was also collected and analyzed for total phosphorus,
total Kjeldahl nitrogen, and cholorophyll-a. Total phosphorus is a key measure of lake
nutrients, chlorophyll-a is a measure of algae abundance, and Secchi depth transparency is
a measure of water clarity.
The Metropolitan Council uses the monitoring data to assign each lake a water quality
grade using an A through F grading system. The grading system uses percentile ranges for
three water quality indicators-summertime average values for total phosphorous,
chlorophyll-a, and Secchi depth transparency. An overall grade is calculated as the average
grade for the three individual grades. The individual grades given to the lakes can be seen
in Table IX-C. Five of the monitored lakes yielded insufficient information, five were given
a “C” grade, none were given a “B” grade, and two lakes received an “A.”
Table IX-C – CAMP Ratings for Lakes Within Scandia
Lake Rating
Alice Insufficient Data
Big Marine A
Bone C
Fish Insufficient Data
German Insufficient Data
Goose C
Hay Insufficient Data
Jellum’s Bay C
Long B
Sand C
Keewahtin A
White Rock C
Under the federal Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C.) the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
(MPCA) is required to set standards and assess Minnesota waters for impairments. The
standards are set on a wide range of pollutants, including bacteria, nutrients, turbidity, and
mercury. A water body is listed as impaired by the MPCA if it fails to meet one or more
water quality standards. If a water body is listed as impaired, a Total Maximum Daily Load
(TMDL) must be established for the pollutant, and plans must be created to reduce TMDLs.
Scandia will be required to participate in TMDL plans for impaired water bodies within its
borders. Figure IX-D shows the locations of impaired water bodies in Scandia while Tables
IX-D and IX-E provide detail on specific impairments.
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Figure IX-D - Impaired Waters
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Table IX-D – Impaired Water Bodies in Scandia
Water Body Nutrients Invasive Species PCBs Mercury
Big Marine Lake X Eurasian watermilfoil X
Bone Lake X Eurasian watermilfoil;
Curly-leaf pondweed
Fish Lake X
Goose Lake X
Hay Lake X
Long Lake X
Sea Lake Eurasian watermilfoil;
Curly-leaf pondweed
St. Croix River X X
White Rock Lake X
Table IX-E – Water Bodies Listed on Minnesota’s 303 List
Water Body
Concerns
Other Considerations Total Phosphorus Chlorophyll-a Secchi
Transparency
Fish Lake X X X Walleye Rearing
Goose Lake X X Bluegill; northern pike
Hay Lake X X
Jellum’s Bay (Bay in
Big Marine Lake) X X Walleye Rearing
Long Lake X X X Walleye Rearing
Source: Carnelian-Marine Watershed District TMDL Plan, 2011
5. Local Implementation Plan/Program
Implementation of the Scandia Local Water Management Plan will require cooperation
with local Watershed Districts to implement projects within the City that are identified in
the District Plans. The City supports the projects identified in the District Plans and Capital
Improvement Plans that are within Scandia, including the projects listed in Table IX-F.
The CMSCWD plan describes three categories of activities that are included in the
District’s Implementation Program: routine watershed management, focused watershed
management, and impaired watershed management. Most of the activities included in these
efforts are implemented by the District. Some are implemented in cooperation with local
landowners and volunteers. The Cost-share Program identifies several existing or potential
water quality and environmental issues that will be addressed by the program. The District
has ranked the proposed projects on a watershed basis. Many of the projects will be carried
out in cooperation with private landowners.
The CLFLWD’s Management Plan includes three categories of implementation activities:
Administration, Programs and Projects. Administration activities are carried out by the
CLFLWD. Programs include development of District rules and permitting activities,
education and outreach. As noted above, the City concurs with and adopts the District’s
Water Management Plan, standards and rules. The CLFLWD Districts will continue to
enforce surface water regulations and permitting within the City, within its geographic area.
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A small portion of Scandia is included within the Rice Creek Watershed District—the area
around White Rock Lake. The District’s Plan includes no implementation projects for the
White Rock Lake area. The City supports the District’s efforts to study this lake and
identify potential issues related to water quality and lake management.
Table IX-F – Future Surface Water Improvement Projects
Watershed
District Project
Improvement Cost
Estimate1
Low High
CM
S
C
W
D
205th Street – St. Croix River Bluff Erosion
Control and Stormwater Quality Project $15,000 $25,000
Neighborhood Small Lot Stormwater
Management Incentive Program in Downtown
Scandia and Lake Neighborhoods
$30,000 $50,000
TMDL Study Implementation Projects TBD – As Constructed
Ravine Reconstruction $60,000 $85,000
Non-Specific Project in its Focused Watersheds,
including Sand Lake $40,000/Year for 10 Years
CL
F
L
W
D
Bone Lake TMDL Implementation Plan –
Numerous Projects TBD – As Constructed
Water Quality Studies and Develop Management
Plans for Sea Lake, Nielsen Lake and Clear Lake TBD – As Constructed
Stream Assessment of the Bone-Birch-School-
Little Comfort Lake Tributary TBD – As Constructed
RCWD White Rock Lake (RCWD) No Projects Planned
1 Cost estimates include only stormwater related improvements.
Water Supply
1. Local Water Supply Plan
As with wastewater treatment, most residences and businesses in Scandia are served by on-
site drinking water wells installed and maintained by the landowner. There are three
community drinking water wells in the Village Center serving multiple residences and
businesses. In addition, there is a public well serving the Fire Department and Public
Works building. The public well locations are show on Figure IX-E.
Minnesota Rules Chapter 4720 requires the development of Wellhead Protection Plans
(WHPP). Scandia Elementary has worked with the Minnesota Department of Health and
completed Phase I of the WHPP. The City of Scandia may be required to complete WHPPs
for all public water supply systems if required by the Minnesota Department of Health.
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Figure IX-E - Water Distribution
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a) Hilltop Water Company
The Hilltop Water Company is a private water system that serves 25 homes and
businesses in the Village Center. The company’s service area extends along Olinda
Trail North from Highway 97 to Oakhill Road and along Oakhill Road. The well was
drilled in 1980, and approximately 275 feet deep. The well pump is assumed to have a
design capacity of approximately 50 gpm and two 82-gallon pressure tanks provide
water storage. Ground elevations in the Hilltop water system are approximately 40 feet
above the City of Scandia facilities. The water system is set to maintain water pressures
between 40-60 psi.
b) Scandia Water Company
The Scandia Water Company is a private water system serving 19 properties along
Olinda Trail North to the North of Highway 97.
c) Uptown Well/Scandia Community Center Well
The Uptown Well is located at the Scandia Senior/Community Center, 14727 209th
Street North. It serves the Senior/Community Center/City Hall and a number of
properties within the village including Elim Church and parsonage, the Gammelgarden,
and the ice rink-warming house. The well was completed in June 1996 and is 463 feet
deep with 70 gallons per minute (gpm) well pump. Four 119-gallon tanks provide
pressure to the water system when the well is off and provide water storage. The water
system provides water system pressures of approximately 45-70 pounds per square inch
(psi) to the water system as measured at the warming house mechanical room.
In 2011, the City completed a study on a water system connection between the Uptown
Well and Hilltop Water Company system. The recommendation emergency
interconnection between the City and Hilltop water systems includes an approximately
4-inch water main directly between the two wells. This would provide sufficient
backup water supply for both water systems and the interconnection would meet the
MDH recommendation for backup water supply for the Hilltop Water Company and
would not change existing systems requirements of either water system.
d) New Scandia Fire Hall Well
The New Scandia Fire Hall Well is located to the north of Highway 97 at the
intersection of Ozark Avenue North. The well was completed in May 2000 and is 790
feet deep. The well serves the Fire Department and Public Works, which are both
located in the Fire Hall.
e) Wyldewood Acres
Wyldewood Acres is a private water system designed to serve 23 three-and-a-half
bedroom homes and four three-bedroom homes. The system is owned and operated by
the Wyldewood Acres HOA
2. Assessing and Protecting the Water Source
Scandia is part of the DNR’s North and East Metro Groundwater Management Area, shown
in Figure IX-F. A small segment of the city located south of Highway 97 and west of
Manning Ave is also in the Drinking Water Supply Management Area for Minneapolis/St.
Paul. The Minnesota Department of Health has identified a portion of the city for a
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Moderate to Highly Vulnerable Drinking Water Supply Management Plan; this area is
located south of Highway 97, west of Olinda Trail, and east of Meadowbrook Avenue N.
The city will work with the DNR, Department of Health, and other relevant agencies as
necessary to ensure groundwater within these management areas is protected.
Figure IX-F - Water Supply System Interconnections and Management Areas
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There are two DNR observation wells located in Scandia, shown in Figure IX-G. Well
195728 is located near the eastern side of Big Marine Lake. This well is showing a
downward trend in annual minimum values, meaning water is being used faster than it is
being replenished. Well 244593 is located north of White Rock Lake. There is insufficient
data at this well to determine a trend in annual minimum values.
Figure IX-G – Ground Level Monitoring Wells
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Water Resources
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The city will also take special consideration of wetlands that receive and discharge
groundwater or recharge aquifers to prevent potential contamination of groundwater
drinking sources, shown in Figure IX-H.
Figure IX-H – Surface Water and Groundwater Interaction
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Sub-Regional Collaboration
The Washington County Groundwater Plan provides a countywide framework for the
protection and conservation of groundwater resources. The current plan was approved in
2014 and guides the protection of groundwater resources in the county until 2024.
The overall goal of the Washington County Groundwater Plan is to protect the economic
and environmental values groundwater provides through coordinated, intergovernmental
efforts in research and assessment, policies, political influence, regulation, education, and
consultation, and technical assistance. The plan has six main goals:
• Concisely outline the physical nature of groundwater resources, discuss the issues
that threaten groundwater, and provide direction and strategies on how to protect
groundwater for future generations
• Provide context and organization for stakeholders and residents to better
understand the complex water governance structure
• Serve as a framework to develop annual work plans for the county and its
stakeholders that give specific implementation actions to address the groundwater
issues in this plan
• Compliment and coordinate with other state, regional, county, and local planning
efforts
• Guide collaboration on groundwater initiatives with state, regional, and local
partners more efficiently and effectively
• Be a resource for stakeholders and residents regarding groundwater information
pertinent to the county.
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X. IMPLEMENTATION
Implementation Plan
The Comprehensive plan creates a vision for the City of Scandia and guides land use and
infrastructure improvements so that the City can meet the needs of the community in the future.
The vision of the plan can only be realized if the plan is used. Tools to implement the plan will
vary in that some will be reactive, such as zoning and subdivision ordinances that guide private
developments, and others will be proactive, such as the City’s Capital Improvement Program
(CIP) for undertaking public improvement projects.
1. Official Controls
To achieve the goals and objectives of this Comprehensive Plan, the City of Scandia has
adopted a Development Code to establish regulations for zoning, subdivision of land, and
shoreland and floodplain areas. The Development Code was originally adopted in
November of 2010, with ongoing amendments as needed. Scandia’s Development Code
incorporates all land development regulations into a single code.
Zoning
City zoning codes regulate land use to promote the health, safety, order, convenience, and
general welfare of all citizens. They regulate location, size, use and height of buildings, the
arrangement of buildings on lots, and the density of population within the City. The City’s
zoning districts effectively guide development in Scandia.
The City of Scandia is divided into nine zoning districts, detailed below and shown in
Figure X-A. There are permitted and accessory uses in most districts, as well as the other
allowed uses under conditional use permit, interim use permits, or administrative permits.
Table X-A provides a high-level summary of each zoning district, and Table X-B provides
a summary of each overlay district.
To ensure compliance with this 2040 Comprehensive Plan, the following zoning ordinance
changes will need to be implemented:
• Update zoning map based on future land use plan
• Reconcile inconsistencies between current zoning ordinance and intended future
land uses
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
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Figure X-A – Current Zoning Map
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
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Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Zo
n
i
n
g
C
l
a
s
s
i
f
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
s
Agricultural
Preserves
District (AP)
General Description
This district plans for the continuation of the Agricultural Preserves Program in Scandia.
Regulations fulfill standards to make land eligible for the Metropolitan Agricultural Preserves
according to Minnesota Statute 473H, as amended, to remain in long-term agricultural production.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Agricultural production
• Agricultural businesses and services
• Single family residential
• Essential Services
• Feedlots and livestock operations
• Parks and recreation facilities
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
General farming services
Density /Intensity 1 unit per 40 acres. Maximum lot coverage is 25%.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Continued viability of agricultural uses considered in siting of structures and drives
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) I. Character Area:
Agricultural Districts (A-P and AG-C)
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Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Agricultural
Core (AG-C)
General Description The AG-C District is established to protect and preserve land for long-term agricultural production.
Residential development compatible with agriculture is permitted.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Agricultural production
• Agricultural businesses and services
• Single family residential
• Essential Services
• Feedlots and livestock operations
• Parks and recreation facilities
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
• General farming services
Density/Intensity
4 buildable lots per 40 acres. Lots shall be 2 to 5 acres in size or 20 acres or greater. Maximum lot
coverage is 25%.
An open space conservation subdivision providing the minimum required open space shall receive a
25% density bonus. The number of additional bonus lots allowed is directly tied to the quantity and
quality of preservation and protection afforded natural landscapes, agricultural land, open space, and
cultural features. The maximum bonus permitted is 75%.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Continued viability of agricultural uses considered in siting of structures and drives
• Open space conservation subdivisions are encouraged
• Bonus density incentives may be offered in open space conservation subdivisions only if
agricultural protection is the focal point of the subdivision design
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) I. Character Area: Agricultural
Districts (A-P and AG-C)
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Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Rural
Residential
General
District (RR-
G)
General Description
Lands zoned Rural Residential General(RR-G)are established to provide for principal residential use
with estate or large-lot development patterns. The RR-G District includes lot or parcel
configurations that are generally unplatted, including mostly non-riparian land. The RR-G District
areas are guided General Rural in the Comprehensive Plan.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Agricultural production
• Agricultural businesses and services
• Single family residential
• Essential Services
• Feedlots and livestock operations
• Parks and recreation facilities
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
• General farming services
Density/Intensity
4 buildable lots per 40 acres; minimum lot size of 2 acres. Maximum lot coverage is 25%.
An open space conservation subdivision providing the minimum required open space shall receive a
25% density bonus. The number of additional bonus lots allowed is directly tied to the quantity and
quality of preservation and protection afforded natural landscapes, agricultural land, open space, and
cultural features. The maximum bonus permitted is 75%.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Continued viability of agricultural uses considered in siting of structures and drives
• Open space conservation subdivisions are encouraged for subdivisions
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) II. Character Area: Rural
Residential Districts (RR-G and RR-N)
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Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Rural
Residential
Neighborhood
District (RR-
N)
General Description
Lands zoned RR-N are the parcels adjoining, abutting, or a portion of which are within 1,000 feet of
a lake with a public waters designation that were historically platted or divided into smaller lots for
seasonal use. The use of these lots has generally transitioned to permanent year-round use with
predominantly principal residential uses. Most parcels and lots in the RR-N District are at least 50%
contained within the Shoreland Management Overlay (SM-O) District. In addition to the standards
identified in this Section, the lots or parcels are subject to the regulations contained within Chapters
155 of the City Code and the Washington County St. Croix River District standards which are
incorporated by reference herein. Land zoned RR-N are guided Agricultural Core and General Rural
in the Comprehensive Plan.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Agricultural production
• Single family residential
• Essential Services
• Parks and recreation facilities
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
Density/Intensity 4 buildable lots per 40 acres; minimum lot size of 2 acres. Maximum lot coverage is 25%.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Continued viability of agricultural uses considered in siting of structures and drives
• Open space conservation subdivisions are encouraged for subdivisions
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) II. Character Area: Rural
Residential Districts (RR-G and RR-N)
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Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Village –
Historic Core
District (V-
HC)
General Description
The V-HC District is established to sustain the historic village center by preserving and protecting
the long-term viability of historic properties and structures, and by allowing a mixture of mutually
supportive land uses. The mixture of commercial, office, institutional, recreational, and residential
land uses are made compatible through the enforcement of design guidelines.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Commercial, office, retail
• Public and private institutions
• Civic buildings
• Light industrial
• Parks and recreation
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory Structures
• Recreation facilities and equipment
Density /Intensity 5 dwelling units per acre. No new subdivisions of land permitted. Maximum lot coverage of 80%.
Maximum building height is 45 feet.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• In the core of the Village, buildings shall be of a size and have setbacks that reflect the
“downtown” character
• Scandia Architectural Design Guidelines and Unified Development Code Character Area
Standards should be used as an example to protect the historic elements and further development
should match these styles
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) III. Character Area: Village
Districts (V-N, V-C and V-HC)
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Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Village Center
District (V-C)
General Description
The V-C District is established to provide a growth area around the Village Center. The District
provides for a mixture of commercial, office, institutional, recreational, and residential land uses.
The District provides an area for larger scale businesses, for businesses that benefit from visibility
from MN Hwy 97, and for business and mixed-use development that utilize on-site wastewater
treatment systems.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Department, discount, and warehouse stores
• Garden supply stores
• Laundromats
• Sports and fitness clubs, less than 4,000 square feet in area
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory Structures
• Recreation facilities and equipment
Density /Intensity 5 dwelling units per acre. Maximum lot coverage 65%. Maximum building height 45 feet
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) III. Character Area: Village Districts
(V-N, V-C and V-HC)
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Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Village
Neighborhood
District (V-N)
General Description The V-N District is established to designate growth areas surrounding the village center, to support
primarily single-family residential uses on lot sizes reflective of the existing village lot sizes.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Single family residential
• Public parks and recreation
• Agriculture
• Essential Services
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
Recreation facilities and equipment
Density/Intensity
Single family: 4 dwelling unit per 40 acres in the same Quarter-Quarter Section. 1 dwelling unit per
1.5 acres (where applicable).
Densities up to 1 dwelling unit per 1.5 acre may be utilized depending on the land use intensity and
the ability of the site and/or system to manage wastewater.
Lots sizes in the Goose Lake shoreland area shall remain consistent with those allowed under the
current shoreland ordinance.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Design standards shall ensure that new development is visually compatible with existing village
development patterns.
• Street and sidewalk standards ensure new development is well-connected to the Village Center
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) III. Character Area: Village
Districts (V-N, V-C and V-HC)
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Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Industrial
Park District
(I-P)
General Description
The IP District is established to allow for light industrial businesses. IP District areas are designated
Village Mixed Use in the Comprehensive Plan. Industrial park uses include a variety of light
manufacturing, fabrication, assembly, warehouse, wholesaling or storage businesses that are non-
threatening to the environment. The IP District does not abut major roadways, and property access is
via a local street which does not also serve residential districts.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Permitted uses:
• Building Supplies
• Contractor Operations
• Light Manufacturing and Assembly
• Essential services
• Government Buildings
• Recreational Uses
Secondary uses:
• Accessory Structures
• Off-Street Parking
• Temporary Produce Stands
Density /Intensity 2.0 acres minimum lot size, 1 acre minimum buildable area. Maximum lot coverage 65%. Maximum
building height 45 feet
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) IV. Character Area: Business Districts
(R-C and I-P)
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Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Rural
Commercial
District (R-C)
General Description
Lands zoned Rural Commercial are intended to support commercial development of rural areas in
the community that have historically been used for some type of business use. R-C zoned land is
guided Rural Commercial in the Comprehensive Plan.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Permitted uses:
• Agriculture
• Banks, Credit Unions, and other financial institutions
• Bed and Breakfast Inns
• Offices
• Motor Vehicle Service Stations
• Restaurants
Secondary uses:
• Accessory Structures
• Off-Street Parking
Density /Intensity 2.0 acres minimum lot size, 1 acre minimum buildable area. Maximum lot coverage 65%. Maximum
building height 45 feet
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) IV. Character Area: Business Districts
(R-C and I-P)
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Table X-B – Overlay Districts
Ov
e
r
l
a
y
Di
s
t
r
i
c
t
s
Aggregate
Mining
Overlay
District
General Description
The Aggregate Mining Overlay District provides areas where mineral deposits, primarily gravel,
may be made available for general use under the conditions and regulations of Chapter 4 of the
Scandia Development Code, Mining and Related Activities Regulations. The Aggregate Mining
Overlay District areas are designated Mining Area in the Comprehensive Plan.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Permitted uses:
• Mining
• Essential services
Secondary uses:
• Accessory Structures
Density /Intensity 1 parcel with at least 40 contiguous acres in size
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Mining uses must comply with local and state extractive use regulations. Reclamation plan must
restore the natural resource of the site to a level such that the land is suitable for he planned future
land uses such as agriculture or residential.
Shoreland
Ordinance
General Description The Shoreland Ordinance was adopted to protect the public resource that is shoreland around lakes,
ponds, and rivers.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Single family residential
• Parks and historic sites
• Agriculture
Density /Intensity Density limitations are dependent on the underlying zoning. Some exceptions to this will apply and
requirements for those can be found in Chapter Five of the Development Code.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
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Table X-B – Overlay Districts
Saint Croix
River
Overlay
District
General Description
The city adopts by reference the Washington County Lower St. Croix River Bluffland and
Shoreland Management Ordinance, as amended, until such time that the City Council adopts a City
of Scandia Lower St. Croix River corridor ordinance for this zone. Until then, properties within the
Lower St. Croix River Corridor Overlay District are regulated according to the Washington County
Lower St. Croix River Bluffland and Shoreland Management Ordinance with the exception that lots
shall meet the density and lot requirements of the Agriculture District – Core (AG C).
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Conservancy
• Agriculture
• Single Family Residential
Secondary uses:
• Accessory uses which are incidental to the permitted primary uses of the property
Density /Intensity Density limitations are dependent on the underlying zoning.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Both aesthetic elements and uses have regulations within the code adopted by Washington County.
Floodplain
Overlay
District
General Description Promote the public health, safety, and general welfare and to minimize accidental losses.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• General open spaces used for uses such as boat launching ramps, swimming areas, parks,
wildlife and nature preserve, fish hatcheries and hunting and fishing areas.
• Residential units
Density /Intensity Density limitations are dependent on the underlying zoning.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Only uses that have a low flood damage potential will be allowed. The use will be allowed by the
underlying zoning district. The use shall not obstruct flows or increase flood elevation.
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Subdivision of Land
The Subdivision Ordinance regulates the subdivision and platting of land within the City
providing for the orderly, economic and safe development of land and facilitating the
adequate provision for transportation, water, sewage, storm drainage, electric utilities,
streets, parks and other public services and facilities essential to any development. City
controls to regulate subdivision of land include an application process, legal notice and
public hearings by the Planning Commission, and approval by the City Council. The
process includes imposing applicable fees, a development agreement prescribing the
standards for the development and imposing penalties for the violation of its provisions.
The subdivision of land promotes the public health, safety and general welfare of the
people and helps achieve the vision of this comprehensive plan by providing for standards
in the development of land.
The City also prohibits premature subdivisions. The Development Code defines a
premature subdivision as any development inconsistent with the Comprehensive Plan,
inconsistent with the City’s CIP, inconsistent with environmental regulations, and lacking
adequate infrastructure, including sewage treatment systems, streets and drainage.
2. CIP
Capital improvement projects are major projects that benefit the City, including the
construction or reconstruction of roads and sidewalks, sewer and water utilities, trails, and
park and recreation facilities, as well the purchase of new or replacement equipment and
buildings. A capital improvement program (CIP) is a budgeting plan, which lists five years
of needed capital improvements, their order of priority, and the means of financing.
The City of Scandia’s 2018-2022 CIP lists a wide variety of projects totaling more than $10
million. These projects are intended to meet the City’s goals. The CIP is reviewed and
updated annually by the City Council to ensure the proper priorities and funding.
Table X-C – 2018 – 2022 Capital Improvement Plan
Project/Program 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Funding
Community Facilities $139,300 $127,000 $41,000 $75,000 $30,000 Capital
Improvement Fund
Equipment (Vehicles
and Operating) $43,500 $118,000 $267,000 $25,500 $240,000 Equipment
Replacement Fund
Parks and Trails $15,000 $- $20,000 $- $45,000 Park Improvement
Fund
Streets $6,425,650 $- $620,000 $450,000 $320,000 Local Road
Improvement Fund
201 Sewer System $- $62,000 $- $36,000 $1,160,000 User Fees
Uptown Sewer
System $3,000 $- $- $- $23,200 User Fees
TOTAL $6,626,450 $307,000 $948,000 $586,500 $1,818,200
3. Action Plan
To ensure the goals of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update are met in a timely fashion,
the Action Plan outlines the overarching community goals for Scandia and identifies
implementation tools to help the city obtain its goals. Also detailed is a proposed timeline
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 127
for tool and program implementation. The timing of activities reflects community priorities
identified through public participation and review of the comprehensive plan, compliance
needs from the Metropolitan Council, and capacity needed to ensure successful
implementation. This timeline also incorporates programs and policies from the Housing
Implementation Plan outlined in Chapter III. This timeline is subject to change due to
unexpected natural and sociocultural events, shifting community needs, and political
priorities at the County, State, and Federal levels.
Amending the Plan
To keep the Comprehensive Plan current, it will be necessary to make amendments from
time to time. However, as the foundational document guiding development, most
amendments should occur through a comprehensive effort to address changes to the
community overtime. The Action Plan, described below, should be amended more
frequently.
Action Plan Worksheets
Implementing the vision and goals of the Comprehensive Plan requires an action plan,
and the coordination and investments of many stakeholders. The Action Plan worksheets
present a concise summary of the goals along with specific action steps, organized by
chapter. The table includes:
• Schedule: The schedule indicates when the action item might begin and is
advisory in nature.
• Lead: This represents the leader for the action item. The Lead will likely be a
City staff person, but include coordination with other City departments, public,
private, or non-profit entities.
• Status: This section provides an update on the status of each action item.
• Comments: This column is intended to allow further explanation of the action
item.
All action plan worksheets are included in Appendix G.
Appendix A: Community Survey Results
Appendix B: Focus Group Notes
Appendix C: Comprehensive Trails Master Plan
Report
Appendix D: Big Marine Park Reserve Official
Map
Appendix E: Access Guidelines
Appendix F: City Ordinance 189 – Governance
of Community Sewage Treatment System
Appendix G: Action Plan Worksheets
Appendix H: Full Surface Water Management
Plan
Appendix I: Adjacent and Affected Jurisdiction
Comments and Responses
Appendix J: Reports and Resolutions
Appendix K: NPDES Permits
Prepared by
1
CITY OF SCANDIA
WASHINGTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA
RESOLUTION NO. 05-21-24-02
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING SUBMITTAL OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
UPDATE TO THE METROPOLITAN COUNCIL
WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes section 473.864 requires each local governmental unit to
review and, if necessary, amend its entire comprehensive plan and its fiscal devices and official
controls at least once every ten years to ensure its comprehensive plan conforms to metropolitan
system plans and ensure its fiscal devices and official controls do not conflict with the
comprehensive plan or permit activities that conflict with metropolitan system plans; and
WHEREAS, the City of Scandia has completed its decennial review and adopted the City
of Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan on December 18, 2018; and
WHEREAS, the City of Scandia has established future land uses, established density
standards, produced density calculations, and referenced zoning standards; and,
WHEREAS, the City of Scandia desires to change density standards to direct higher density
development towards the established village center within the City; and,
WEHEREAS, the City of Scandia adopted the Unified Development Code on September
20, 2022, to replace the previous zoning and subdivision codes; and,
WHEREAS, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes section 473. 858, the proposed Comprehensive
Plan Update was submitted to adjacent governmental units for review and comment on January 31,
2024, and the comment period ended on March 30, 2024, with seven responses; and
WHEREAS, the City conducted a public hearing on April 2, 2024, relative to the adoption
of the proposed Comprehensive Plan Update; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has considered the proposed Comprehensive Plan
Update and all public comments and thereafter submitted its recommendations to this City Council;
and
WHEREAS, the City Council has reviewed the proposed Comprehensive Plan Update and
those recommendations, public comments, and comments from adjacent jurisdictions; and
WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes section 473.858 requires a local governmental unit to
submit a proposed comprehensive plan update to the Metropolitan Council following
recommendation by the Planning Commission and after consideration but before final approval by
the governing body of the local governmental unit; and
WHEREAS, based on its review of the proposed Comprehensive Plan Update and Planning
Commission and staff recommendations, the City Council is ready to submit its proposed plan to the
Metropolitan Council for review pursuant to Minnesota Statutes section 473.864.
2
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, the City Council for the City of Scandia hereby:
1. The Administrator is directed to distribute said Comprehensive Plan Update to the
Metropolitan Council pursuant to Minnesota Statutes section 473.864.
Adopted by the City Council of the City of Scandia this 21st day of May 2024.
____________________
Christine Maefsky, Mayor
ATTEST:
Kyle Morell, City Administrator
City of Scandia
2040 Comprehensive Plan – Volume 1
Approved by Metropolitan Council October 9, 2019
Approved by City of Scandia October 15, 2019, Amended May 21, 2024
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 17
Figure II-G – Existing Land Use
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 18
Table II-H identifies the number of existing housing units in each land use category.
Table II-H – Existing Net Residential Density (in Planned Land Use Categories)
Planned Land Use
Category
Single
Family
Number
of Units
Multi-
Family
Number
of Units
Acres
Gross
Residential
Acres Development
Constraints
(wetlands, parks,
ROW, etc.)
Net
Residential
Acres
Net Density
Units/Acre
A B C D E=C-D (A+B)/E
Agricultural Core 229 0 6,953 731 6,221 0.04
General Rural 881 30 9,679 1,232 8,447 0.11
Rural Mixed Use 110 0 419 150 269 0.41
St. Croix River District 60 0 681 114 567 0.11
Village Neighborhood 133 0 1,480 150 1,330 0.10
Village Mixed Use 65 0 287 18 269 0.24
Recreation Area
Protected 10 0 2,132 1,566 567 0.02
Total 1,488 30 21,632 3,962 17,671 0.09
Source: Washington County Parcel Data
In October of 2022, Scandia adopted a new Unified Development Code to replace the existing
zoning and subdivision ordinances. With this change, districts have been renamed and
modified. Scandia’s Unified Development Code, which includes both zoning and subdivision
standards. Any references within this document to the zoning ordinance or subdivision
ordinance, shall be considered the same as a reference to the Unified Development Code. Based
on these requirements, Table II-I shows the number of housing units per acre that can be
developed under current zoning regulations. These densities are anticipated to remain the same
in corresponding future land uses. Most large lot residential zoning districts require lots to be a
minimum of two acres, and all zoning districts have a maximum lot coverage of 25%. Bonus
densities in the Village Neighborhood District allow up to one dwelling unit per acre. This is
done to make efficient use of existing resources in Village Neighborhood and to guide
residential development to these areas to help preserve agricultural lands and open spaces from
development.
Table II-I – Current Residential Allowed Density Ranges
Future Land Use Category Units/Acres
Agriculture Core 4/40
General Rural 4/40
Village Mixed Use 5/40 or 5/1*
Village Neighborhood 4/40 or 1/1.5*
St. Croix River District 4/40
Agricultural Preserve 1/40
*Densities only available if conditions established in the adopted zoning and subdivision ordinance are met
When density is regulated by a ratio that references 40 acres, those 40 acres shall be the area
defined by the Public Land Survey as Quarter-Quarter Sections. Until sewer improvements are
made, zoning in the Rural Mixed Use area will remain Rural Residential General.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 19
The zoning code for the City of Scandia provides a maximum lot coverage for commercial and
industrial development. The Metropolitan Council has provided estimates for the number of
employees per square feet in various employment types; rates range from 556 square feet per
job at the low end (medical clinics) to 2,500 square feet per job at the high end (hotels). Using
the city’s lot coverage allowance as guidance, an estimate of jobs/square foot can be estimated
to project future employment based on future land use designations and planned development.
The Village – Historic Core District allows a maximum lot coverage of 80 percent. The Village
Center District allows a maximum lot coverage of 35 percent. The Rural Commercial District,
and Industrial Park District both allow a maximum lot coverage of 65 percent.
Future Land Use
The 2040 Land Use Map (Figure II-H) shows the desired land use for all property in Scandia.
Table II-J summarizes the planned land uses by category shown on the map. The planned future
land uses shown on this map reflect previous community planning efforts as well as desired
updates identified as part of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update process.
Table II-J – Planned Land Use
Land Use Gross Acres Percent of Total Area
Agricultural Core 6,953 27%
General Rural 9,679 38%
Mining 443 1.7%
Rural Commercial 75 0.3%
Rural Mixed Use 419 1.6%
St. Croix River District 681 2.7%
Village Neighborhood 1,480 5.8%
Village Mixed Use 287 1.1%
Recreation Area Protected 2,132 8.4%
Open Water 3,252 12.8%
Railway 73 0.3%
Total 25,475 100%
Future land use designations were determined by a variety of factors, including an analysis of
existing land use, the current land use plan, and development constraints. Factors impacting
development include:
• Existing regional parks, Wildlife Management Areas, and Scenic and Natural Areas;
• Steep slopes;
• Wetlands and waterbodies;
• Roads, railroads, and the Regional Bike Trail Network;
• Shoreland and flood plain;
• Agricultural Preserves; and
• Prime farmland.
Figure II-I maps development constraints in the City of Scandia
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 20
Figure II-H – Planned Land Use
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 21
Figure II-I – Development Constraints
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 22
Table II-K summarizes the developable land available by decade in future land uses
classifications. Non-developable land includes areas that cannot be developed, such as
wetlands, steep slopes, and the road right-of-way, as well as existing development.
Development is forecasted for each decade at existing land use densities, adding to the amount
of non-developable land in each land use. Forecasted development is based on projected
housing and employment needs (as projected in Table II-B, Forecasted Population, Households
and Employment), minimum lot sizes by each land use district and an anticipated allocation of
the projected housing development between each of the land use districts. The planned future
land uses shown on this map reflect previous community planning efforts as well as desired
updates identified as part of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update process.
Table II-K – Planned Land Use Net Acres
Planned Land Use
Category
2015 (Current) 2020 2030 2040
De
v
e
l
o
p
a
b
l
e
No
n
-
De
v
e
l
o
p
a
b
l
e
De
v
e
l
o
p
a
b
l
e
No
n
-
De
v
e
l
o
p
a
b
l
e
De
v
e
l
o
p
a
b
l
e
No
n
-
De
v
e
l
o
p
a
b
l
e
De
v
e
l
o
p
a
b
l
e
No
n
-
De
v
e
l
o
p
a
b
l
e
Acres Acres Acres Acres Acres Acres Acres Acres
Agricultural Core 5688 1265 5588 1365 5488 1465 5388 1565
General Rural 6121 3559 5710 3969 5310 4369 4903 4776
Mining 262 181 262 181 262 181 262 181
St. Croix River District 296 385 206 475 106 575 6 675
Rural Commercial 45 30 44 32 42 34 41 35
Rural Mixed Use 269 150 269 150 269 150 195 224
Village Mixed Use 125 162 109 178 88 199 67 220
Village Neighborhood 1,080 400 780 700 430 1,050 200 1,280
Open Water 0 3,252 0 3,252 0 3,252 0 3,252
Recreation Area Protected 0 2132 0 2132 0 2132 0 2132
Railway 0 73 0 73 0 73 0 73
Total 13,887 11,589 12,968 12,507 11,995 13,480 11,062 14,413
To meet projected housing needs, it is anticipated homes will be developed in the following
percentages in each respective land use district.
Table II-L – Planned Land Use Development Characteristics
Land Use Percent of Anticipated Housing Units
Agricultural Core 5%
General Rural 21%
Rural Mixed Use 5%
St. Croix River District 5%
Village Neighborhood 60.4%
Village Mixed Use 3.4%
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 23
The following land use descriptions will be used for planning purposes and correspond to the
planned land use designations on the Planned Land Use Map.
a) Agricultural Core
The Agricultural Core district is established to protect and preserve land for long-term
agricultural production. Over time, the nature of agricultural production in Scandia will
most likely change from traditional dairy farms to specialty agriculture and agriculture
production for local/metropolitan markets. Residential development compatible with
agriculture uses (4 per 40 density) and parks will be a secondary land use in this
district. This designation corresponds with the Agricultural Core zoning district in the
current zoning ordinance. The City’s zoning and subdivision ordinance should allow
density bonuses of up to 75% for single-family developments if providing community
value through agricultural land protection, life-cycle housing, natural resource
protection or other amenities.
b) General Rural
The General Rural area land use category is a residential area of mixed lot sizes. It
recognizes areas of Scandia that have been developed in the past at densities of ten acre
or less and areas that have larger parcels still used for agriculture. The area includes 10-
acre parcels, but also a number of existing smaller parcels and some parcels enrolled in
the Agricultural Preserves Program. Single-family residential dwellings are the primary
land use for the General Rural area at densities of 4 units per 40 acres in the same
Quarter-Quarter Section. Secondary land uses include agricultural production,
including small-scale production, parks and recreation, and public and private
institutions. Recreational commercial uses are allowed as a conditional use. This
designation corresponds with the Rural Residential General and Rural Residential
Neighborhood District in the current zoning ordinance. The City’s zoning and
subdivision ordinance should allow density bonuses of up to 75% for single-family
developments if providing community value through agricultural land protection, life-
cycle housing, natural resource protection or other amenities.
c) Village Mixed Use
This land use category recognizes the significant contribution of the existing village
center to the overall character of the community. New commercial, retail, and
residential activity will be encouraged in order to develop and redevelop areas in the
village center while maintaining the historic nature of the village center. Primary land
uses in the Village Mixed Use area include commercial, office, retail, public and
private institutions, civic buildings, light industrial, and parks and recreation.
Residential uses, including single family homes, townhouses and multi-family
buildings, will be a secondary use. Multi-family buildings in the village center will
achieve the goal of diversifying the housing options for younger families, seniors, and
singles. Future lot sizes will be similar to the existing mix of lot sizes in the village
center. In order to support these relatively small lot sizes, community sewer systems
are anticipated. This designation corresponds with the Village-Historic Core and
Village Center Districts, in the current zoning ordinance. Higher densities up to five
units per acre may be permitted depending on the ability of the site and/or system to
manage wastewater. The City’s zoning and subdivision ordinance should allow density
bonuses of up to 75% for single-family developments if providing community value
through agricultural land protection, life-cycle housing, natural resource protection or
other amenities. This is consistent with existing multi-unit developments like Oakhill
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
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Cottages. While exact proportions of uses will be dependent on development, it is
anticipated the Village Mixed Use District will have roughly 60 percent
commercial/office/retail uses and 40 percent residential uses.
d) Village Neighborhood
The Village Neighborhood area is a planned extension of the existing Village Center,
located adjacent to and north and west of the Village Center. This land use category
designates a growth area surrounding the village and is intended to support single and
multi-family residential uses on lot sizes reflective of the existing village lot sizes. This
corresponds with the Village Neighborhood District in the current zoning ordinance.
The primary land use for the Village Neighborhood area will be small-lot, single-
family residential uses. Public and private institutions, civic buildings, and parks and
recreation uses will also be allowed. Townhomes and multi-family units will be
allowed as an incentive for providing community value through agricultural land
protection, life-cycle housing, or natural resource protection. New development in the
Village Neighborhood District will be at a density of 4 units per 40 acres in the same
Quarter-Quarter Section. By concentrating development in the Village Neighborhood
area, the City of Scandia hopes to protect agricultural and natural resource areas from
development pressure. Higher densities up to one unit per 1.5 acre may be permitted
through Planned Unit Developments on a case by case basis, depending on the land use
intensity and at the discretion of the City Council. The City’s zoning and subdivision
ordinance should allow density bonuses of up to 75% for single-family developments if
providing community value through agricultural land protection, life-cycle housing,
natural resource protection or other amenities. This is consistent with existing multi-
unit developments like the Oakhill Cottages.
e) Rural Commercial
The Rural Commercial future land use area is intended to support commercial
development in places of historic commercial activity. These areas are the only
commercial areas anticipated outside of the Village Center and are intended to
complement Village Center commercial uses. Rural Commercial areas are designated at
the historic commercial nodes of the Big Marine Store, Copas/Abrahamson Nurseries,
and the intersection of Highways 95 and 97. Commercial uses reflecting the historic
nature of the community and compatible with the surrounding rural character will be
allowed on lot sizes of at least 2 acres. Because this future land use area builds upon
historic character, commercial building design standards shall reflect the historic nature
of the community. This corresponds with the Rural Commercial District in the current
zoning ordinance.
f) Rural Mixed Use
The Rural Mixed Use area is located to the west of Big Marine Lake. This is a new
land use category and is intended to allow for single-family residential development
connected to the Big Marine Store rural commercial area. Single family residential
would be at a maximum density of 4 units per 40 acres. Some civic buildings, small
commercial, and parks and recreation uses will also be allowed. It is anticipated the
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 25
Rural Mixed Use District will have roughly 85 percent residential uses and 15 percent
commercial or civic uses.
Improvements to the existing community system are necessary to permit higher density
in this area. Until that occurs, new development will be limited in this area. The City of
Scandia’s Unified Development Code includes lack of adequate sewage treatment
systems as a condition of premature development within the City, which shall not be
approved by City Council. Until the sewer is improved, the current Rural Residential
General zoning district will remain in place, preserving land at residential densities of 4
units per 40 acres to be consistent with the Diversified Rural community designation.
Upgrades and improvements to the community system will occur alongside new
development in the area. The presence of wetlands and the additional regulations of the
shoreland overlay district, which covers many parcels in this area of the City, will
likely be constraining factors for both new development and sewer improvements.
However, it is the intention of the City of Scandia to encourage development and
higher densities in this area once improvements to the community sewer are made. To
that end, the City will work to amend the zoning ordinance and comprehensive plan as
needed to implement higher densities and land use once the infrastructure is sufficient.
g) St. Croix River District
The St. Croix River District recognizes the unique historical and natural resource
aspects of the floodplain and bluffs of the shoreland area of the St. Croix River. This
area includes historic crossroad and seasonal home communities, parkland, river
access, and areas protected under scenic easements held by the National Park Service.
The mapped area east of State Highway 95 corresponds to land areas protected under
federal wild and scenic river designation. The future of this area includes limited
residential development that protects the natural and scenic shoreland areas, and public
and private protected lands. This corresponds with the Lower St. Croix River Corridor
Overlay District in the current zoning ordinance.
New development in the St. Croix River District will be at a density of 4 units per 40
acres. Smaller lots may be permitted through the use of open space conservation
subdivisions but may not exceed maximum densities. Viewsheds should be considered
and protected in the siting of structures and driveways.
h) Recreation Area Protected
The Recreation Area Protected land use category includes publicly owned lands
permanently protected from development. This designation recognizes that these areas
will continue to be used for recreation or open space only and not developed. If
recreation facilities are developed within these areas, priority natural resource areas
shall be protected. In addition, priority natural resources should be restored and
enhanced wherever possible within protected recreation areas. This designation
corresponds with the Agricultural Preserves, Agricultural Core, and Rural Residential
General Districts in the zoning ordinance.
i) Mining
The Mining area includes areas in the City of Scandia with active, permitted mining
operations. Mining activity is anticipated to continue in these areas in the future.
Mining uses must comply with local and state extractive use regulations and
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 26
reclamation shall restore the topography and natural resources of the site to a level such
that the land is suitable for the planned future land uses such as agriculture or
residential. This corresponds with the Aggregate Mining Overlay District in the current
zoning ordinance.
The following overlay district will also guide land uses in specific, sensitive areas:
• Agriculture Preserves Overlay District (AP)
The Agricultural Preserves Overlay plans for the continuation of the Agricultural Preserves
Program is Scandia. This overlay is intended to encourage the continuation of agriculture
through ensuring the availability of the Program to qualifying agricultural landowners.
The Agricultural Preserves Overlay lies over the primary agricultural future land use area,
the Agricultural Core Area. The Agricultural Preserves Overlay allows individual property
owners within Scandia to continue to participate in the Agricultural Preserves Program.
This voluntary program for landowners within the seven-county metropolitan area allows
individuals to place their properties under a restrictive covenant committing their property
to agricultural use in exchange for certain benefits. These benefits include a special tax rate
calculated based on agricultural value rather than market value, a property tax credit,
protection of normal farm practices, and protection against special assessments for public
improvement projects.
While the underlying zoning district (Agricultural Core Area) allows four dwellings per 40
acres, parcels enrolled in the Agricultural Preserves Program and located within the
Agricultural Preserves Overlay shall be allowed only 1 unit per 40 acres per program
requirements.
Additional details on the corresponding zoning districts are included on Table X-A in the
Implementation chapter.
1. Density Calculations
Based on the above future land use plan and land use calculations, residential and
commercial land use requirements have been calculated to help Scandia plan for and meet
Metropolitan Council projections for population, households, and employment. Residential
calculations are detailed in Table II-M and commercial calculations are detailed in
Table II-N.
Residential
To meet forecasted 2040 population and household projections, the City of Scandia will
need to add 582 housing units by 2040. These calculations show the number of acres
needed to accommodate all needed housing units in each zoning district. Residential
development is anticipated to take place in all residential zoning districts in an orderly
manner consistent with the staging plan, discussed below. These calculations do not include
any density bonuses which may be allowed per the Unified Development Code through
special approvals such as Planned Unit Developments. Actual acreage needed to
accommodate future households and their locations will be influenced by market forces.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 27
Table II-M – Residential Density Increase Calculations
Future Land Use
Permitting Residential Use
Density
(Units/Acre)
Desired
Distribution
Number of
Households
Acres
Needed
Current (2015)
Developable Acres
Agricultural Core 4/40 5% 30 300 5,688
General Rural 4/40 21% 122 1,220 6,121
St. Croix River Corridor 4/40 5% 29 290 296
Rural Mixed Use 4/40 5% 7 73 269
Village Neighborhood 4/40 7.8% 44 440 1,080 1/1.5 55% 308 462
Village Mixed Use 5/1 3.4% 20 4 125
Total 100% 560 2,789 13,889
Commercial
To meet forecasted 2040 employment projections, the City of Scandia will need to add 190
jobs by 2040. These calculations show the number of acres needed to accommodate all
needed new jobs in each zoning district. Based on guided land use and available
developable acres, Scandia has sufficient available vacant land to meet employment
projections based on development in the Village Mixed Use (commercial/industrial) Rural
Commercial, and Rural Mixed Use (both commercial) districts. Actual acreage needed to
accommodate jobs will greatly depend on the types of businesses starting or expanding in
Scandia. These calculations also do not include remote telecommuting, home occupations,
or permitted employment opportunities in agricultural zoning districts, all of which will
influence the number of acres needed to accommodate employment in Scandia.
Table II-N – Commercial/Industrial Increased Density Calculations
Zoning
Districts
Density Range
(Jobs/Acre) Desired
Distribution
Number
of Jobs
Minimum
Acres
Maximum
Acres
Current (2015)
Developable
Acres Minimum Maximum
Village
Mixed Use 14 62.4 60% 114 1.8 8.1 125
Rural
Commercial 11.4 50.7 30% 57 1.1 5 46
Rural
Mixed Use 11.4 50.7 10% 19 0.4 1.7 269
Total - - 100% 190 3.3 14.8 440
2. Staged Development or Redevelopment
The goal of a Staging Plan is to manage growth and guide the orderly and cost-effective
provision of infrastructure at a rate that is consistent with forecasted growth, at the same
time responding appropriately to market conditions. Table II-O identifies the staging of
future growth in Scandia. This table indicates the anticipated timing and sequence of
growth. It identifies the developable acres, number of housing units and jobs that may be
developed in each 10-year planning period. The table is not intended to limit or to compel
growth in any specific area within the planning period. Rather, it is an estimation of where
growth may logically occur.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 28
A staging plan cannot force development to occur but can be used as a tool to guide
development appropriately. In many cases, cities choose to stage and time growth in an
orderly and contiguous manner; however, there is nothing about adopting a staged growth
plan that forces any private property owner to sell or develop their land before they wish to
do so. The City of Scandia will make development decisions based on existing and
development of new infrastructure, land capacity and market conditions.
Table II-O – Staging of Future Land Use Units/Jobs/Acres
Outside Urban
Service Area
Average Density
Range Housing
Existing
Developable
(2015)
2020 2030 2040
Residential Units/Acre Acres Units Acres Units Acres Units Acres
Agricultural Core 0.1 5,688 10 100 10 100 10 100
General Rural 0.1 6,121 41 410 40 400 41 410
Rural Mixed Use 0.1 269 0 0 0 0 7 73
St. Croix River District 0.1 296 9 90 10 100 10 100
Village Mixed Use 0.4 125 5 13 7 18 8 20
Village Neighborhood 0.4 1,080 120 300 140 350 92 230
Average Density for New Development 560 units/2,789 = 0.20 units/acre
Non-Residential Estimated
Employment/Acre
Developable
Acres Jobs Acres Jobs Acres Jobs Acres
Village Mixed Use 14 62.4 125 53 3.8 50 3.6 11 0.8
Rural Commercial 11.4 50.7 46 27 2.4 20 1.8 10 0.9
Rural Mixed Use 11.4 50.7 269 0 0 0 0 19 1.67
Average Density for New Development 190 jobs/14.8 acres = 12.8 jobs/acre
One of the main desires of this comprehensive plan is to preserve and augment the
community character and history in Scandia. To support the Village Center, the social and
economic heart of the city, infill development will be encouraged in vacant or underutilized
lots. This will help encourage a vibrant Village Center and surrounding residential
neighborhoods while utilizing existing infrastructure, guiding development and
redevelopment in an orderly manner. The expansion of the Village zoning districts will
occur as market conditions allow.
The implementation of the Rural Mixed Use district west of Big Marine Lake will be
contingent upon infrastructure repairs or upgrades. Most homes in this area are currently
served by community sewer, which is aging and to the point of needing repairs. The City of
Scandia is currently assessing options to best provide wastewater services to this portion of
the city, discussed more in Chapter VI. Development in this area of the city should be
aligned with future wastewater plans and investments.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Housing
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 49
Projected Housing Needs
The City of Scandia is anticipated to see modest population and household growth by 2040.
Exact housing needs and demand for new housing development will be influenced by the actual
population growth and average household size. The amount of land needed to accommodate
new housing units will be influenced by several factors, including the desire for accessory
dwelling units and the location of new units. Most of the city’s housing growth is anticipated to
take place in the Village Neighborhood designation, which permits higher density residential
development than General Rural or Agricultural. Accessory dwelling units on existing lots can
also accommodate the city’s projected population growth without greatly increasing the
demand for developable land.
Figure VI-G – Household Projections
Appendix A details the housing needs and gaps identified by respondents to the 2017
Community Survey. Residential development was noted as one of the top priorities for the city
for the next 20 years. Most survey respondents expressed a desire for mid-range, single-family
homes on larger lots. When asked to identify gaps, the most common response was about the
lack of senior or assisted living (45% of survey responses).
As noted in Appendix B, focus group participants also expressed a desire for housing north of
Highway 97, north/west of the current village center and around Big Marine Lake. There was
interest in senior housing options, which ranged from care facilities to varying house sizes
(smaller single family, townhomes) and lot configurations, such as accessory dwelling units.
To accommodate projected housing needs, the Future Land Use plan expands the Village
Neighborhood designation north and west, a reflection of both public comments and orderly,
contiguous residential expansion. This designation accommodates smaller homes and smaller
lot sizes, blending into the historical character of the Village Center. The zoning ordinance also
includes density bonuses for the development of housing, where the housing units are
designated for residents age 55 or older or are affordable to households with incomes less than
120% of AMI. Large lot, single family homes are the primary housing type permitted in Rural
Residential General, Agricultural Core, and the St. Croix River zoning districts to preserve the
city’s rural character.
408
851
1,060
1,294
1,498 1,518 1,700
1,910 2,100
1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 2030 2040
Household Projections in Scandia
Number of Households
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 113
X. IMPLEMENTATION
Implementation Plan
The Comprehensive plan creates a vision for the City of Scandia and guides land use and
infrastructure improvements so that the City can meet the needs of the community in the future.
The vision of the plan can only be realized if the plan is used. Tools to implement the plan will
vary in that some will be reactive, such as zoning and subdivision ordinances that guide private
developments, and others will be proactive, such as the City’s Capital Improvement Program
(CIP) for undertaking public improvement projects.
1. Official Controls
To achieve the goals and objectives of this Comprehensive Plan, the City of Scandia has
adopted a Development Code to establish regulations for zoning, subdivision of land, and
shoreland and floodplain areas. The Development Code was originally adopted in
November of 2010, with ongoing amendments as needed. Scandia’s Development Code
incorporates all land development regulations into a single code.
Zoning
City zoning codes regulate land use to promote the health, safety, order, convenience, and
general welfare of all citizens. They regulate location, size, use and height of buildings, the
arrangement of buildings on lots, and the density of population within the City. The City’s
zoning districts effectively guide development in Scandia.
The City of Scandia is divided into nine zoning districts, detailed below and shown in
Figure X-A. There are permitted and accessory uses in most districts, as well as the other
allowed uses under conditional use permit, interim use permits, or administrative permits.
Table X-A provides a high-level summary of each zoning district, and Table X-B provides
a summary of each overlay district.
To ensure compliance with this 2040 Comprehensive Plan, the following zoning ordinance
changes will need to be implemented:
• Update zoning map based on future land use plan
• Reconcile inconsistencies between current zoning ordinance and intended future
land uses
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 114
Figure X-A – Current Zoning Map
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 115
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Zo
n
i
n
g
C
l
a
s
s
i
f
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
s
Agricultural
Preserves
District (AP)
General Description
This district plans for the continuation of the Agricultural Preserves Program in Scandia.
Regulations fulfill standards to make land eligible for the Metropolitan Agricultural Preserves
according to Minnesota Statute 473H, as amended, to remain in long-term agricultural production.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Agricultural production
• Agricultural businesses and services
• Single family residential
• Essential Services
• Feedlots and livestock operations
• Parks and recreation facilities
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
General farming services
Density /Intensity 1 unit per 40 acres. Maximum lot coverage is 25%.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Continued viability of agricultural uses considered in siting of structures and drives
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) I. Character Area:
Agricultural Districts (A-P and AG-C)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 116
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Agricultural
Core (AG-C)
General Description The AG-C District is established to protect and preserve land for long-term agricultural production.
Residential development compatible with agriculture is permitted.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Agricultural production
• Agricultural businesses and services
• Single family residential
• Essential Services
• Feedlots and livestock operations
• Parks and recreation facilities
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
• General farming services
Density/Intensity
4 buildable lots per 40 acres. Lots shall be 2 to 5 acres in size or 20 acres or greater. Maximum lot
coverage is 25%.
An open space conservation subdivision providing the minimum required open space shall receive a
25% density bonus. The number of additional bonus lots allowed is directly tied to the quantity and
quality of preservation and protection afforded natural landscapes, agricultural land, open space, and
cultural features. The maximum bonus permitted is 75%.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Continued viability of agricultural uses considered in siting of structures and drives
• Open space conservation subdivisions are encouraged
• Bonus density incentives may be offered in open space conservation subdivisions only if
agricultural protection is the focal point of the subdivision design
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) I. Character Area: Agricultural
Districts (A-P and AG-C)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 117
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Rural
Residential
General
District (RR-
G)
General Description
Lands zoned Rural Residential General(RR-G)are established to provide for principal residential use
with estate or large-lot development patterns. The RR-G District includes lot or parcel
configurations that are generally unplatted, including mostly non-riparian land. The RR-G District
areas are guided General Rural in the Comprehensive Plan.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Agricultural production
• Agricultural businesses and services
• Single family residential
• Essential Services
• Feedlots and livestock operations
• Parks and recreation facilities
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
• General farming services
Density/Intensity
4 buildable lots per 40 acres; minimum lot size of 2 acres. Maximum lot coverage is 25%.
An open space conservation subdivision providing the minimum required open space shall receive a
25% density bonus. The number of additional bonus lots allowed is directly tied to the quantity and
quality of preservation and protection afforded natural landscapes, agricultural land, open space, and
cultural features. The maximum bonus permitted is 75%.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Continued viability of agricultural uses considered in siting of structures and drives
• Open space conservation subdivisions are encouraged for subdivisions
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) II. Character Area: Rural
Residential Districts (RR-G and RR-N)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 118
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Rural
Residential
Neighborhood
District (RR-
N)
General Description
Lands zoned RR-N are the parcels adjoining, abutting, or a portion of which are within 1,000 feet of
a lake with a public waters designation that were historically platted or divided into smaller lots for
seasonal use. The use of these lots has generally transitioned to permanent year-round use with
predominantly principal residential uses. Most parcels and lots in the RR-N District are at least 50%
contained within the Shoreland Management Overlay (SM-O) District. In addition to the standards
identified in this Section, the lots or parcels are subject to the regulations contained within Chapters
155 of the City Code and the Washington County St. Croix River District standards which are
incorporated by reference herein. Land zoned RR-N are guided Agricultural Core and General Rural
in the Comprehensive Plan.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Agricultural production
• Single family residential
• Essential Services
• Parks and recreation facilities
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
Density/Intensity 4 buildable lots per 40 acres; minimum lot size of 2 acres. Maximum lot coverage is 25%.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Continued viability of agricultural uses considered in siting of structures and drives
• Open space conservation subdivisions are encouraged for subdivisions
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) II. Character Area: Rural
Residential Districts (RR-G and RR-N)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 119
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Village –
Historic Core
District (V-
HC)
General Description
The V-HC District is established to sustain the historic village center by preserving and protecting
the long-term viability of historic properties and structures, and by allowing a mixture of mutually
supportive land uses. The mixture of commercial, office, institutional, recreational, and residential
land uses are made compatible through the enforcement of design guidelines.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Commercial, office, retail
• Public and private institutions
• Civic buildings
• Light industrial
• Parks and recreation
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory Structures
• Recreation facilities and equipment
Density /Intensity 5 dwelling units per acre. No new subdivisions of land permitted. Maximum lot coverage of 80%.
Maximum building height is 45 feet.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• In the core of the Village, buildings shall be of a size and have setbacks that reflect the
“downtown” character
• Scandia Architectural Design Guidelines and Unified Development Code Character Area
Standards should be used as an example to protect the historic elements and further development
should match these styles
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) III. Character Area: Village
Districts (V-N, V-C and V-HC)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 120
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Village Center
District (V-C)
General Description
The V-C District is established to provide a growth area around the Village Center. The District
provides for a mixture of commercial, office, institutional, recreational, and residential land uses.
The District provides an area for larger scale businesses, for businesses that benefit from visibility
from MN Hwy 97, and for business and mixed-use development that utilize on-site wastewater
treatment systems.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Department, discount, and warehouse stores
• Garden supply stores
• Laundromats
• Sports and fitness clubs, less than 4,000 square feet in area
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory Structures
• Recreation facilities and equipment
Density /Intensity 5 dwelling units per acre. Maximum lot coverage 65%. Maximum building height 45 feet
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) III. Character Area: Village Districts
(V-N, V-C and V-HC)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 121
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Village
Neighborhood
District (V-N)
General Description The V-N District is established to designate growth areas surrounding the village center, to support
primarily single-family residential uses on lot sizes reflective of the existing village lot sizes.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Single family residential
• Public parks and recreation
• Agriculture
• Essential Services
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
Recreation facilities and equipment
Density/Intensity
Single family: 4 dwelling unit per 40 acres in the same Quarter-Quarter Section. 1 dwelling unit per
1.5 acres (where applicable).
Densities up to 1 dwelling unit per 1.5 acre may be utilized depending on the land use intensity and
the ability of the site and/or system to manage wastewater.
Lots sizes in the Goose Lake shoreland area shall remain consistent with those allowed under the
current shoreland ordinance.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Design standards shall ensure that new development is visually compatible with existing village
development patterns.
• Street and sidewalk standards ensure new development is well-connected to the Village Center
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) III. Character Area: Village
Districts (V-N, V-C and V-HC)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 122
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Industrial
Park District
(I-P)
General Description
The IP District is established to allow for light industrial businesses. IP District areas are designated
Village Mixed Use in the Comprehensive Plan. Industrial park uses include a variety of light
manufacturing, fabrication, assembly, warehouse, wholesaling or storage businesses that are non-
threatening to the environment. The IP District does not abut major roadways, and property access is
via a local street which does not also serve residential districts.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Permitted uses:
• Building Supplies
• Contractor Operations
• Light Manufacturing and Assembly
• Essential services
• Government Buildings
• Recreational Uses
Secondary uses:
• Accessory Structures
• Off-Street Parking
• Temporary Produce Stands
Density /Intensity 2.0 acres minimum lot size, 1 acre minimum buildable area. Maximum lot coverage 65%. Maximum
building height 45 feet
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) IV. Character Area: Business Districts
(R-C and I-P)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 123
Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Rural
Commercial
District (R-C)
General Description
Lands zoned Rural Commercial are intended to support commercial development of rural areas in
the community that have historically been used for some type of business use. R-C zoned land is
guided Rural Commercial in the Comprehensive Plan.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Permitted uses:
• Agriculture
• Banks, Credit Unions, and other financial institutions
• Bed and Breakfast Inns
• Offices
• Motor Vehicle Service Stations
• Restaurants
Secondary uses:
• Accessory Structures
• Off-Street Parking
Density /Intensity 2.0 acres minimum lot size, 1 acre minimum buildable area. Maximum lot coverage 65%. Maximum
building height 45 feet
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) IV. Character Area: Business Districts
(R-C and I-P)
Prepared by
City of Scandia
2040 Comprehensive Plan – Volume 1
Approved by Metropolitan Council October 9, 2019
Approved by City of Scandia October 15, 2019, Amended May 21, 2024
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 18
Figure II-G – Existing Land Use
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 19
Table II-H identifies the number of existing housing units in each land use category.
Table II-H – Existing Net Residential Density (in Planned Land Use Categories)
Planned Land Use
Category
Single
Family
Number
of Units
Multi-
Family
Number
of Units
Acres
Gross
Residential
Acres Development
Constraints
(wetlands, parks,
ROW, etc.)
Net
Residential
Acres
Net Density
Units/Acre
A B C D E=C-D (A+B)/E
Agricultural Core 229 0 6,953 731 6,221 0.04
General Rural 881 30 9,679 1,232 8,447 0.11
Rural Mixed Use 110 0 419 150 269 0.41
St. Croix River District 60 0 681 114 567 0.11
Village Neighborhood 133 0 1,480 150 1,330 0.10
Village Mixed Use 65 0 287 18 269 0.24
Recreation Area
Protected 10 0 2,132 1,566 567 0.02
Total 1,488 30 21,632 3,962 17,671 0.09
Source: Washington County Parcel Data
In October of 2022, Scandia adopted a new Unified Development Code to replace the existing
zoning and subdivision ordinances. With this change, districts have been renamed and
modified. Scandia’s Unified Development Code, which includes both zoning and subdivision
standards. zoning code specifies maximum density for various residential development. Any
references within this document to the zoning ordinance or subdivision ordinance, shall be
considered the same as a reference to the Unified Development Code. Based on these
requirements, Table II-I shows the number of housing units per acre that can be developed
under current zoning regulations. These densities are anticipated to remain the same in
corresponding future land uses. Most large lot residential zoning districts require lots to be a
minimum of two acres, and all zoning districts have a maximum lot coverage of 25%. Bonus
densities in the Village Neighborhood District allow up to one dwelling unit per acre. This is
done to make efficient use of existing resources in Village Neighborhood and to guide
residential development to these areas to help preserve agricultural lands and open spaces from
development.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 20
Table II-I – Current Residential Allowed Density Ranges
Future Land Use Category Units/Acres
(Ordinance Standards)
Agriculture Core District 4/40
General Rural District 4/40
Village Mixed Use A District 5/40 or 5/1* ½.5
Village Neighborhood District 4/40 or 1/1.5* 1/2.5
Village Mixed Use B District 1/2.5
St. Croix River District 4/40
Agricultural Preserve 1/40
*Densities only available if conditions established in the adopted zoning and subdivision ordinance are met
When density is regulated by a ratio that references 40 acres, those 40 acres shall be the area
defined by the Public Land Survey as Quarter-Quarter Sections. Until sewer improvements are
made, zoning in the Rural Mixed Use area will remain General Rural Rural Residential
General.
The zoning code for the City of Scandia provides a maximum lot coverage for commercial and
industrial development. The Metropolitan Council has provided estimates for the number of
employees per square feet in various employment types; rates range from 556 square feet per
job at the low end (medical clinics) to 2,500 square feet per job at the high end (hotels). Using
the city’s lot coverage allowance as guidance, an estimate of jobs/square foot can be estimated
to project future employment based on future land use designations and planned development.
The Village Mixed Use A District Village – Historic Core District allows a maximum lot
coverage of 80 percent. The Village Center District allows a maximum lot coverage of 35
percent. The Rural Commercial District, Village Mixed Use B District and Industrial Park
District all both allow a maximum lot coverage of 65 percent.
Future Land Use
The 2040 Land Use Map (Figure II-H) shows the desired land use for all property in Scandia.
Table II-J summarizes the planned land uses by category shown on the map. The planned future
land uses shown on this map reflect previous community planning efforts as well as desired
updates identified as part of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update process.
Table II-J – Planned Land Use
Land Use Gross Acres Percent of Total Area
Agricultural Core 6,953 27%
General Rural 9,679 38%
Mining 443 1.7%
Rural Commercial 75 0.3%
Rural Mixed Use 419 1.6%
St. Croix River District 681 2.7%
Village Neighborhood 1,480 5.8%
Village Mixed Use 287 1.1%
Recreation Area Protected 2,132 8.4%
Open Water 3,252 12.8%
Railway 73 0.3%
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 21
Total 25,475 100%
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 22
Figure II-H – Planned Land Use
UPDATED MAP
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 23
Future land use designations were determined by a variety of factors, including an analysis of
existing land use, the current land use plan, and development constraints. Factors impacting
development include:
• Existing regional parks, Wildlife Management Areas, and Scenic and Natural Areas;
• Steep slopes;
• Wetlands and waterbodies;
• Roads, railroads, and the Regional Bike Trail Network;
• Shoreland and flood plain;
• Agricultural Preserves; and
• Prime farmland.
Figure II-I maps development constraints in the City of Scandia.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 24
Figure II-I – Development Constraints
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 25
Table II-K summarizes the developable land available by decade in future land uses
classifications. Non-developable land includes areas that cannot be developed, such as
wetlands, steep slopes, and the road right-of-way, as well as existing development.
Development is forecasted for each decade at existing land use densities, adding to the amount
of non-developable land in each land use. Forecasted development is based on projected
housing and employment needs (as projected in Table II-B, Forecasted Population, Households
and Employment), minimum lot sizes by each land use district and an anticipated allocation of
the projected housing development between each of the land use districts. The planned future
land uses shown on this map reflect previous community planning efforts as well as desired
updates identified as part of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update process.
Table II-K – Planned Land Use Net Acres
Planned Land Use
Category
2015 (Current) 2020 2030 2040
De
v
e
l
o
p
a
b
l
e
No
n
-
De
v
e
l
o
p
a
b
l
e
De
v
e
l
o
p
a
b
l
e
No
n
-
De
v
e
l
o
p
a
b
l
e
De
v
e
l
o
p
a
b
l
e
No
n
-
De
v
e
l
o
p
a
b
l
e
De
v
e
l
o
p
a
b
l
e
No
n
-
De
v
e
l
o
p
a
b
l
e
Acres Acres Acres Acres Acres Acres Acres Acres
Agricultural Core 5688 1265 5588 1365 5488 1465 5388 1565
General Rural 6121 3559 5710 3969 5310 4369 4903 4776
Mining 262 181 262 181 262 181 262 181
St. Croix River District 296 385 206 475 106 575 6 675
Rural Commercial 45 30 44 32 42 34 41 35
Rural Mixed Use 269 150 269 150 269 150 195 224
Village Mixed Use 125 162 109 178 88 199 67 220
Village Neighborhood 1,080 400 780 700 430 1,050 200 1,280
Open Water 0 3,252 0 3,252 0 3,252 0 3,252
Recreation Area Protected 0 2132 0 2132 0 2132 0 2132
Railway 0 73 0 73 0 73 0 73
Total 13,887 11,589 12,968 12,507 11,995 13,480 11,062 14,413
To meet projected housing needs, it is anticipated homes will be developed in the following
percentages in each respective land use district.
Table II-L – Planned Land Use Development Characteristics
Land Use Percent of Anticipated Housing Units
Agricultural Core 5%
General Rural 21%
Rural Mixed Use 5%
St. Croix River District 5%
Village Neighborhood 60.4%
Village Mixed Use 3.4%
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 26
The following land use descriptions will be used for planning purposes and correspond to the
planned land use designations on the Planned Land Use Map.
a) Agricultural Core
The Agricultural Core district is established to protect and preserve land for long-term
agricultural production. Over time, the nature of agricultural production in Scandia will
most likely change from traditional dairy farms to specialty agriculture and agriculture
production for local/metropolitan markets. Residential development compatible with
agriculture uses (4 per 40 density) and parks will be a secondary land use in this
district. This designation corresponds with the Agricultural Core Area zoning district in
the current zoning ordinance. The City’s zoning and subdivision ordinance should
allow density bonuses up to 75% for single-family developments if providing
community value through agricultural land protection, life-cycle housing, natural
resource protection or other amenities.
b) General Rural
The General Rural area land use category is a residential area of mixed lot sizes. It
recognizes areas of Scandia that have been developed in the past at densities of ten acre
or less and areas that have larger parcels still used for agriculture. The area includes 10-
acre parcels, but also a number of existing smaller parcels and some parcels enrolled in
the Agricultural Preserves Program. Single-family residential dwellings are the primary
land use for the General Rural area at densities of 4 units per 40 acres in the same
Quarter-Quarter Section. Secondary land uses include agricultural production,
including small-scale production, parks and recreation, and public and private
institutions. Recreational commercial uses are allowed as a conditional use. This
designation corresponds with the General Rural Rural Residential General and Rural
Residential Neighborhood District in the current zoning ordinance. The City’s zoning
and subdivision ordinance should allow density bonuses up to 75% for single-family
developments if providing community value through agricultural land protection, life-
cycle housing, natural resource protection or other amenities.
c) Village Mixed Use
This land use category recognizes the significant contribution of the existing village
center to the overall character of the community. New commercial, retail, and
residential activity will be encouraged in order to develop and redevelop areas in the
village center while maintaining the historic nature of the village center. Primary land
uses in the Village Mixed Use area include commercial, office, retail, public and
private institutions, civic buildings, light industrial, and parks and recreation.
Residential uses, including single family homes, townhouses and multi-family
buildings, will be a secondary use. Multi-family buildings in the village center will
achieve the goal of diversifying the housing options for younger families, seniors, and
singles. Future lot sizes will be similar to the existing mix of lot sizes in the village
center. In order to support these relatively small lot sizes, community sewer systems
are anticipated. This designation corresponds with the Village Mixed Use AVillage -
Historic Core and and B and Village Center Districts, and the Planned Industrial
District in the current zoning ordinance. The zoning ordinance requires a minimum lot
size of 2.5 acres per unit. Higher densities up to one five units per acre may be
permitted through Conservation Design or Cluster Development, Conditional Use
Permits, or Planned Unit Developments on a case by case basis, depending on the land
use intensity and the ability of the site and/or system to manage wastewater. Per the
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Page 27
City Development Code Chapter 2, Section 6, density bonuses up to 75% will be
considered for multi-unit developments if providing community value through
agricultural land protection, life-cycle housing or natural resource protection or other
amenities. The City’s zoning and subdivision ordinance should allow density bonuses
up to 75% for single-family developments if providing community value through
agricultural land protection, life-cycle housing, natural resource protection or other
amenities. This is consistent with existing multi-unit developments like the Oakhill
Cottages. While exact proportions of uses will be dependent on development, it is
anticipated the Village Mixed Use District will have roughly 60 percent
commercial/office/retail uses and 40 percent residential uses.
d) Village Neighborhood
The Village Neighborhood area is a planned extension of the existing Village Center,
located adjacent to and north and west of the Village Center. This land use category
designates a growth area surrounding the village and is intended to support single and
multi-family residential uses on lot sizes reflective of the existing village lot sizes. This
corresponds with the Village Neighborhood District in the current zoning ordinance.
The primary land use for the Village Neighborhood area will be small-lot, single-
family residential uses. Public and private institutions, civic buildings, and parks and
recreation uses will also be allowed. Townhomes and multi-family units will be
allowed as an incentive for providing community value through agricultural land
protection, life-cycle housing, or natural resource protection. New development in the
Village Neighborhood District will be at a density of 4 units per 40 acres in the same
Quarter-Quarter Section. A community sewer system may be necessary in order to
allow for lot sizes similar to existing village lots. By concentrating development in the
Village Neighborhood area, the City of Scandia hopes to protect agricultural and
natural resource areas from development pressure. The zoning ordinance requires a
minimum lot size of 2.5 acres per unit. Higher densities up to one unit per one acre may
be permitted through Cluster Development or Conservation Design practices,
Conditional Use Permits, or Planned Unit Developments on a case by case basis,
depending on the land use intensity and the ability of the site and/or system to manage
wastewater. Higher densities up to one unit per 1.5 acre may be permitted through
Planned Unit Developments on a case by case basis, depending on the land use
intensity and at the discretion of the City Council. Per the City Development Code
Chapter 2, Section 6, density bonuses up to 75% will be considered for multi-unit
developments if providing community value through agricultural land protection, life-
cycle housing or natural resource protection or other amenities. The City’s zoning and
subdivision ordinance should allow density bonuses up to 75% for single-family
developments if providing community value through agricultural land protection, life-
cycle housing, natural resource protection or other amenities. This is consistent with
existing multi-unit developments like the Oakhill Cottages.
St. Croix River District
The St. Croix River District recognizes the unique historical and natural resource
aspects of the floodplain and bluffs of the shoreland area of the St. Croix River. This
area includes historic crossroad and seasonal home communities, parkland, river
access, and areas protected under scenic easements held by the National Park Service.
The mapped area east of State Highway 95 corresponds to land areas protected under
federal wild and scenic river designation. The future of this area includes limited
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
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residential development that protects the natural and scenic shoreland areas, and public
and private protected lands. This corresponds with the Lower St. Croix River Corridor
Overlay District in the current zoning ordinance.
New development in the St. Croix River District will be at a density of 4 units per 40
acres. Smaller lots may be permitted through the use of open space conservation
subdivisions but may not exceed maximum densities. Viewsheds should be considered
and protected in the siting of structures and driveways.
e) Rural Commercial
The Rural Commercial future land use area is intended to support commercial
development in places of historic commercial activity. These areas are the only
commercial areas anticipated outside of the Village Center and are intended to
complement Village Center commercial uses. Rural Commercial areas are designated at
the historic commercial nodes of the Big Marine Store, Copas/Abrahamson Nurseries,
and the intersection of Highways 95 and 97. Commercial uses reflecting the historic
nature of the community and compatible with the surrounding rural character will be
allowed on lot sizes of at least 2 acres. Because this future land use area builds upon
historic character, commercial building design standards shall reflect the historic nature
of the community. This corresponds with the Rural Commercial District in the current
zoning ordinance.
f) Rural Mixed Use
The Rural Mixed Use area is located to the west of Big Marine Lake. This is a new
land use category and is intended to allow for single-family residential development
connected to the Big Marine Store rural commercial area. Single family residential
would be at a maximum density of 4 units per 40 acres. Some civic buildings, small
commercial, and parks and recreation uses will also be allowed. It is anticipated the
Rural Mixed Use District will have roughly 85 percent residential uses and 15 percent
commercial or civic uses.
Improvements to the existing community system are necessary to permit higher density
in this area. Until that occurs, new development will be limited in this area. Section 5
of the The City of Scandia’s Unified Development Code Subdivision Ordinance
includes lack of adequate sewage treatment systems as a condition of premature
development within the City, which shall not be approved by City Council. Until the
sewer is improved, the current General Rural Rural Residential General zoning district
will remain in place, preserving land at residential densities of 4 units/40 acres to be
consistent with the Diversified Rural community designation. Upgrades and
improvements to the community system will occur alongside new development in the
area. The presence of wetlands and the additional regulations of the shoreland overlay
district, which covers many parcels in this area of the City, will likely be constraining
factors for both new development and sewer improvements.
However, it is the intention of the City of Scandia to encourage development and
higher densities in this area once improvements to the community sewer are made. To
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
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that end, the City will work to amend the zoning ordinance and comprehensive plan as
needed to implement higher densities and land use once the infrastructure is sufficient.
g) St. Croix River District
The St. Croix River District recognizes the unique historical and natural resource
aspects of the floodplain and bluffs of the shoreland area of the St. Croix River. This
area includes historic crossroad and seasonal home communities, parkland, river
access, and areas protected under scenic easements held by the National Park Service.
The mapped area east of State Highway 95 corresponds to land areas protected under
federal wild and scenic river designation. The future of this area includes limited
residential development that protects the natural and scenic shoreland areas, and public
and private protected lands. This corresponds with the Lower St. Croix River Corridor
Overlay District in the current zoning ordinance.
New development in the St. Croix River District will be at a density of 4 units per 40
acres. Smaller lots may be permitted through the use of open space conservation
subdivisions but may not exceed maximum densities. Viewsheds should be considered
and protected in the siting of structures and driveways.
h) Recreation Area Protected
The Recreation Area Protected land use category includes publicly owned lands
permanently protected from development. This designation recognizes that these areas
will continue to be used for recreation or open space only and not developed. If
recreation facilities are developed within these areas, priority natural resource areas
shall be protected. In addition, priority natural resources should be restored and
enhanced wherever possible within protected recreation areas. This designation
corresponds with the Agricultural Preserves, Agricultural Core Area, and General
Rural Rural Residential General Districts in the zoning ordinance.
i) Mining
The Mining area includes areas in the City of Scandia with active, permitted mining
operations. Mining activity is anticipated to continue in these areas in the future.
Mining uses must comply with local and state extractive use regulations and
reclamation shall restore the topography and natural resources of the site to a level such
that the land is suitable for the planned future land uses such as agriculture or
residential. This corresponds with the Aggregate Mining Overlay District in the current
zoning ordinance.
The following overlay district will also guide land uses in specific, sensitive areas:
• Agriculture Preserves Overlay District (AP)
The Agricultural Preserves Overlay plans for the continuation of the Agricultural Preserves
Program is Scandia. This overlay is intended to encourage the continuation of agriculture
through ensuring the availability of the Program to qualifying agricultural landowners.
The Agricultural Preserves Overlay lies over the primary agricultural future land use area,
the Agricultural Core Area. The Agricultural Preserves Overlay allows individual property
owners within Scandia to continue to participate in the Agricultural Preserves Program.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Land Use
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This voluntary program for landowners within the seven-county metropolitan area allows
individuals to place their properties under a restrictive covenant committing their property
to agricultural use in exchange for certain benefits. These benefits include a special tax rate
calculated based on agricultural value rather than market value, a property tax credit,
protection of normal farm practices, and protection against special assessments for public
improvement projects.
While the underlying zoning district (Agricultural Core Area) allows four dwellings per 40
acres, parcels enrolled in the Agricultural Preserves Program and located within the
Agricultural Preserves Overlay shall be allowed only 1 unit per 40 acres per program
requirements.
Additional details on the corresponding zoning districts are included on Table X-A in the
Implementation chapter.
1. Density Calculations
Based on the above future land use plan and land use calculations, residential and
commercial land use requirements have been calculated to help Scandia plan for and meet
Metropolitan Council projections for population, households, and employment. Residential
calculations are detailed in Table II-M and commercial calculations are detailed in
Table II-N.
Residential
To meet forecasted 2040 population and household projections, the City of Scandia will
need to add 582 housing units by 2040. These calculations show the number of acres
needed to accommodate all needed housing units in each zoning district. Residential
development is anticipated to take place in all residential zoning districts in an orderly
manner consistent with the staging plan, discussed below. These calculations do not include
any density bonuses which may be allowed per the Unified Development Code through
special approvals such as Planned Unit Developments. Actual acreage needed to
accommodate future households and their locations will be influenced by market forces.
Table II-M – Residential Density Increase Calculations
Future Land Use Zoning
Districts Permitting
Residential Use
Density
(Units/Acre)
Desired
Distribution
Number of
Households
Acres
Needed
Current (2015)
Developable Acres
Agricultural Core 4/40 5% 30 300 5,688
General Rural 4/40 21% 122 1,220 6,121
St. Croix River Corridor 4/40 5% 29 290 296
Rural Mixed Use 4/40 5% 7 73 269
Village Neighborhood 1/2.5 4/40 60.4 7.8% 352 44 440 880 1,080 1/1.5 55% 308 462
Village Mixed Use 1/2.5 5/1 3.4% 20 50 4 125
Total 100% 560 2,813
2,789
13,889
Commercial
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To meet forecasted 2040 employment projections, the City of Scandia will need to add 190
jobs by 2040. These calculations show the number of acres needed to accommodate all
needed new jobs in each zoning district. Based on guided land use and available
developable acres, Scandia has sufficient available vacant land to meet employment
projections based on development in the Village Mixed Use (commercial/industrial) Rural
Commercial, and Rural Mixed Use (both commercial) districts. Actual acreage needed to
accommodate jobs will greatly depend on the types of businesses starting or expanding in
Scandia. These calculations also do not include remote telecommuting, home occupations,
or permitted employment opportunities in agricultural zoning districts, all of which will
influence the number of acres needed to accommodate employment in Scandia.
Table II-N – Commercial/Industrial Increased Density Calculations
Zoning
Districts
Density Range
(Jobs/Acre) Desired
Distribution
Number
of Jobs
Minimum
Acres
Maximum
Acres
Current (2015)
Developable
Acres Minimum Maximum
Village
Mixed Use 14 62.4 60% 114 1.8 8.1 125
Rural
Commercial 11.4 50.7 30% 57 1.1 5 46
Rural
Mixed Use 11.4 50.7 10% 19 0.4 1.7 269
Total - - 100% 190 3.3 14.8 440
2. Staged Development or Redevelopment
The goal of a Staging Plan is to manage growth and guide the orderly and cost-effective
provision of infrastructure at a rate that is consistent with forecasted growth, at the same
time responding appropriately to market conditions. Table II-O identifies the staging of
future growth in Scandia. This table indicates the anticipated timing and sequence of
growth. It identifies the developable acres, number of housing units and jobs that may be
developed in each 10-year planning period. The table is not intended to limit or to compel
growth in any specific area within the planning period. Rather, it is an estimation of where
growth may logically occur.
A staging plan cannot force development to occur but can be used as a tool to guide
development appropriately. In many cases, cities choose to stage and time growth in an
orderly and contiguous manner; however, there is nothing about adopting a staged growth
plan that forces any private property owner to sell or develop their land before they wish to
do so. The City of Scandia will make development decisions based on existing and
development of new infrastructure, land capacity and market conditions.
Table II-O – Staging of Future Land Use Units/Jobs/Acres
Outside Urban
Service Area
Average Density
Range Housing
Existing
Developable
(2015)
2020 2030 2040
Residential Units/Acre Acres Units Acres Units Acres Units Acres
Agricultural Core 0.1 5,688 10 100 10 100 10 100
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General Rural 0.1 6,121 41 410 40 400 41 410
Rural Mixed Use 0.1 269 0 0 0 0 7 73
St. Croix River District 0.1 296 9 90 10 100 10 100
Village Mixed Use 0.4 125 5 13 7 18 8 20
Village Neighborhood 0.4 1,080 120 300 140 350 92 230
Average Density for New Development 560 units/2,789 814 = 0.20 units/acre
Non-Residential Estimated
Employment/Acre
Developable
Acres Jobs Acres Jobs Acres Jobs Acres
Village Mixed Use 14 62.4 125 53 3.8 50 3.6 11 0.8
Rural Commercial 11.4 50.7 46 27 2.4 20 1.8 10 0.9
Rural Mixed Use 11.4 50.7 269 0 0 0 0 19 1.67
Average Density for New Development 190 jobs/14.8 acres = 12.8 jobs/acre
One of the main desires of this comprehensive plan is to preserve and augment the
community character and history in Scandia. To support the Village Center, the social and
economic heart of the city, infill development will be encouraged in vacant or underutilized
lots. This will help encourage a vibrant Village Center and surrounding residential
neighborhoods while utilizing existing infrastructure, guiding development and
redevelopment in an orderly manner. The expansion of Village Neighborhoods and Village
Mixed Use the Village zoning districts will occur as market conditions allow.
The implementation of the Rural Mixed Use district west of Big Marine Lake will be
contingent upon infrastructure repairs or upgrades. Most homes in this area are currently
served by community sewer, which is aging and to the point of needing repairs. The City of
Scandia is currently assessing options to best provide wastewater services to this portion of
the city, discussed more in Chapter VI. Development in this area of the city should be
aligned with future wastewater plans and investments.
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Housing
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Projected Housing Needs
The City of Scandia is anticipated to see modest population and household growth by 2040.
Exact housing needs and demand for new housing development will be influenced by the actual
population growth and average household size. The amount of land needed to accommodate
new housing units will be influenced by several factors, including the desire for accessory
dwelling units and the location of new units. Most of the city’s housing growth is anticipated to
take place in the Village Neighborhood designation, which permits higher density residential
development than General Rural or Agricultural. Accessory dwelling units on existing lots can
also accommodate the city’s projected population growth without greatly increasing the
demand for developable land.
Figure VI-G – Household Projections
Appendix A details the housing needs and gaps identified by respondents to the 2017
Community Survey. Residential development was noted as one of the top priorities for the city
for the next 20 years. Most survey respondents expressed a desire for mid-range, single-family
homes on larger lots. When asked to identify gaps, the most common response was about the
lack of senior or assisted living (45% of survey responses).
As noted in Appendix B, focus group participants also expressed a desire for housing north of
Highway 97, north/west of the current village center and around Big Marine Lake. There was
interest in senior housing options, which ranged from care facilities to varying house sizes
(smaller single family, townhomes) and lot configurations, such as accessory dwelling units.
To accommodate projected housing needs, the Future Land Use plan expands the Village
Neighborhood designation north and west, a reflection of both public comments and orderly,
contiguous residential expansion. This designation accommodates smaller homes and smaller
lot sizes, blending into the historical character of the Village Center. The zoning ordinance also
includes density bonuses for the development of housing, where the housing units are
designated for residents age 55 or older or are affordable to households with incomes less than
120% of AMI. Large lot, single family homes are the primary housing type permitted in
General Rural Rural Residential General, Agricultural Core, and the St. Croix River zoning
districts to preserve the city’s rural character.
408
851
1,060
1,294
1,498 1,518 1,700
1,910 2,100
1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 2030 2040
Household Projections in Scandia
Number of Households
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
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X. IMPLEMENTATION
Implementation Plan
The Comprehensive plan creates a vision for the City of Scandia and guides land use and
infrastructure improvements so that the City can meet the needs of the community in the future.
The vision of the plan can only be realized if the plan is used. Tools to implement the plan will
vary in that some will be reactive, such as zoning and subdivision ordinances that guide private
developments, and others will be proactive, such as the City’s Capital Improvement Program
(CIP) for undertaking public improvement projects.
1. Official Controls
To achieve the goals and objectives of this Comprehensive Plan, the City of Scandia has
adopted a Development Code to establish regulations for zoning, subdivision of land, and
shoreland and floodplain areas. The Development Code was originally adopted in
November of 2010, with ongoing amendments as needed. Scandia’s Development Code
incorporates all land development regulations into a single code.
Zoning
City zoning codes regulate land use to promote the health, safety, order, convenience, and
general welfare of all citizens. They regulate location, size, use and height of buildings, the
arrangement of buildings on lots, and the density of population within the City. The City’s
zoning districts effectively guide development in Scandia.
The City of Scandia is divided into eight nine zoning districts, detailed below and shown in
Figure X-A. There are permitted and accessory uses in most districts, as well as the other
allowed uses under conditional use permit, interim use permits, or administrative permits.
Table X-A provides a high-level summary of each zoning district, and Table X-B provides
a summary of each overlay district.
To ensure compliance with this 2040 Comprehensive Plan, the following zoning ordinance
changes will need to be implemented:
• Update zoning map based on future land use plan
• Reconcile inconsistencies between current zoning ordinance and intended future
land uses
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
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Figure X-A – Current Zoning Map
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
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Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Zo
n
i
n
g
C
l
a
s
s
i
f
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
s
Agricultural
Preserves
District (AP)
General Description
This district plans for the continuation of the Agricultural Preserves Program in Scandia.
Regulations fulfill standards to make land eligible for the Metropolitan Agricultural Preserves
according to Minnesota Statute 473H, as amended, to remain in long-term agricultural production.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Agricultural production
• Agricultural businesses and services
• Single family residential
• Essential Services
• Feedlots and livestock operations
• Parks and recreation facilities
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
General farming services
Density /Intensity 1 unit per 40 acres. Maximum lot coverage is 25%.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Continued viability of agricultural uses considered in siting of structures and drives
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) I. Character Area:
Agricultural Districts (A-P and AG-C)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
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Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Agricultural
Core Area
(AG-C)
General Description The AG-C District is established to protect and preserve land for long-term agricultural production.
Residential development compatible with agriculture is permitted.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Agricultural production
• Agricultural businesses and services
• Single family residential
• Essential Services
• Feedlots and livestock operations
• Parks and recreation facilities
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
• General farming services
Density/Intensity
4 buildable lots per 40 acres. Lots shall be 2 to 5 acres in size or 20 acres or greater. Maximum lot
coverage is 25%.
An open space conservation subdivision providing the minimum required open space shall receive a
25% density bonus. The number of additional bonus lots allowed is directly tied to the quantity and
quality of preservation and protection afforded natural landscapes, agricultural land, open space, and
cultural features. The maximum bonus permitted is 75%.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Continued viability of agricultural uses considered in siting of structures and drives
• Open space conservation subdivisions are encouraged
• Bonus density incentives may be offered in open space conservation subdivisions only if
agricultural protection is the focal point of the subdivision design
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) I. Character Area: Agricultural
Districts (A-P and AG-C)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
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Table X-A – Zoning Districts
General Rural
Rural
Residential
General
District (RR-
G)
General Description
Lands zoned Rural Residential General(RR-G)are established to provide for principal residential use
with estate or large-lot development patterns. The RR-G District includes lot or parcel
configurations that are generally unplatted, including mostly non-riparian land. The RR-G District
areas are guided General Rural in the Comprehensive Plan.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Agricultural production
• Agricultural businesses and services
• Single family residential
• Essential Services
• Feedlots and livestock operations
• Parks and recreation facilities
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
• General farming services
Density/Intensity
4 buildable lots per 40 acres; minimum lot size of 2 acres. Maximum lot coverage is 25%.
An open space conservation subdivision providing the minimum required open space shall receive a
25% density bonus. The number of additional bonus lots allowed is directly tied to the quantity and
quality of preservation and protection afforded natural landscapes, agricultural land, open space, and
cultural features. The maximum bonus permitted is 75%.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Continued viability of agricultural uses considered in siting of structures and drives
• Open space conservation subdivisions are encouraged for subdivisions
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) II. Character Area: Rural
Residential Districts (RR-G and RR-N)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
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Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Rural
Residential
Neighborhood
District (RR-
N)
General Description
Lands zoned RR-N are the parcels adjoining, abutting, or a portion of which are within 1,000 feet of
a lake with a public waters designation that were historically platted or divided into smaller lots for
seasonal use. The use of these lots has generally transitioned to permanent year-round use with
predominantly principal residential uses. Most parcels and lots in the RR-N District are at least 50%
contained within the Shoreland Management Overlay (SM-O) District. In addition to the standards
identified in this Section, the lots or parcels are subject to the regulations contained within Chapters
155 of the City Code and the Washington County St. Croix River District standards which are
incorporated by reference herein. Land zoned RR-N are guided Agricultural Core and General Rural
in the Comprehensive Plan.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Agricultural production
• Single family residential
• Essential Services
• Parks and recreation facilities
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
Density/Intensity 4 buildable lots per 40 acres; minimum lot size of 2 acres. Maximum lot coverage is 25%.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Continued viability of agricultural uses considered in siting of structures and drives
• Open space conservation subdivisions are encouraged for subdivisions
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) II. Character Area: Rural
Residential Districts (RR-G and RR-N)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
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Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Village Mixed
Use A Village
– Historic
Core District
(VMU A V-
HC)
General Description
The VMU A V-HC District is established to sustain the historic village center by preserving and
protecting the long-term viability of historic properties and structures, and by allowing a mixture of
mutually supportive land uses. The mixture of commercial, office, institutional, recreational, and
residential land uses are made compatible through the enforcement of design guidelines.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Commercial, office, retail
• Public and private institutions
• Civic buildings
• Light industrial
• Parks and recreation
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory Structures
• Recreation facilities and equipment
Density /Intensity 2,500 square feet minimum lot size 5 dwelling units per acre. No new subdivisions of land
permitted. Maximum lot coverage of 80%. Maximum building height is 45 feet.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• In the core of the Village, buildings shall be of a size and have setbacks that reflect the
“downtown” character
• Scandia Architectural Design Guidelines and Unified Development Code Character Area
Standards should be used as an example to protect the historic elements and further development
should match these styles
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) III. Character Area: Village
Districts (V-N, V-C and V-HC)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
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Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Village Mixed
Use B Center
District (VMU
B V-C)
General Description
The VMU B V-C District is established to provide a growth area around the Village Center. The
District provides for a mixture of commercial, office, institutional, recreational, and residential land
uses. The District provides an area for larger scale businesses, for businesses that benefit from
visibility from MN Hwy 97, and for business and mixed-use development that utilize on-site
wastewater treatment systems.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Department, discount, and warehouse stores
• Garden supply stores
• Laundromats
• Sports and fitness clubs, less than 4,000 square feet in area
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory Structures
• Recreation facilities and equipment
Density /Intensity 5 dwelling units per acre. 2.5 acres minimum lot size, 1 acre minimum buildable area. Maximum lot
coverage 65%. Maximum building height 45 feet
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) III. Character Area: Village Districts
(V-N, V-C and V-HC)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
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Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Village
Neighborhood
District (V-N)
General Description The V-N District is established to designate growth areas surrounding the village center, to support
primarily single-family residential uses on lot sizes reflective of the existing village lot sizes.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Primary uses:
• Single family residential
• Public parks and recreation
• Agriculture
• Essential Services
Secondary land uses:
• Accessory structures
• Limited professional services
Recreation facilities and equipment
Density/Intensity
Single family: 4 dwelling unit per 40 acres in the same Quarter-Quarter Section.1 dwelling unit per
2.5 acres. 1 dwelling unit per 1.5 acres (where applicable).
Multifamily (with conditional use permit): 1 dwelling unit per 1.5 acres. Bonus densities up to 1
dwelling unit per acre may be earned as an incentive for providing life-cycle housing (age 55+).
utilized depending on the land use intensity and the ability of the site and/or system to manage
wastewater.
Lots sizes in the Goose Lake shoreland area shall remain consistent with those allowed under the
current shoreland ordinance.
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
• Design standards shall ensure that new development is visually compatible with existing village
development patterns.
• Street and sidewalk standards ensure new development is well-connected to the Village Center
• Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) III. Character Area: Village
Districts (V-N, V-C and V-HC)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
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Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Industrial
Park District
(I-P)
General Description
The IP District is established to allow for light industrial businesses. IP District areas are designated
Village Mixed Use in the Comprehensive Plan. Industrial park uses include a variety of light
manufacturing, fabrication, assembly, warehouse, wholesaling or storage businesses that are non-
threatening to the environment. The IP District does not abut major roadways, and property access is
via a local street which does not also serve residential districts.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Permitted uses:
• Building Supplies
• Contractor Operations
• Light Manufacturing and Assembly
• Essential services
• Government Buildings
• Recreational Uses
Secondary uses:
• Accessory Structures
• Off-Street Parking
• Temporary Produce Stands
Density /Intensity 2.05 acres minimum lot size, 1 acre minimum buildable area. Maximum lot coverage 65%.
Maximum building height 45 feet
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) IV. Character Area: Business Districts
(R-C and I-P)
Scandia 2040 Comprehensive Plan Implementation
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Table X-A – Zoning Districts
Rural
Commercial
District (R-C)
General Description
Lands zoned Rural Commercial are intended to support commercial development of rural areas in
the community that have historically been used for some type of business use. R-C zoned land is
guided Rural Commercial in the Comprehensive Plan.
Primary and
Secondary Uses
Permitted uses:
• Agriculture
• Banks, Credit Unions, and other financial institutions
• Bed and Breakfast Inns
• Offices
• Motor Vehicle Service Stations
• Restaurants
Secondary uses:
• Accessory Structures
• Off-Street Parking
Density /Intensity 2.0 acres minimum lot size, 1 acre minimum buildable area. Maximum lot coverage 65%. Maximum
building height 45 feet
Special Natural
Resource Standards
& Design Standards
Character Area Standards in Section 153.400.040 Subd. 1 (B) IV. Character Area: Business Districts
(R-C and I-P)
Appendix K: NPDES Permits
Prepared by
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Scandia
Comprehensive Plan
Scandia, Minnesota April 2019, Updated August 2023
Proposed Future Land Use
Legend
Agricultural Core
General Rural
Mining
St Croix River District
Recreation Area Protected
Rural Commercial
Rural Mixed Use
Village Mixed Use
Village Neighborhood
Open Water
Railway
0 ½
Miles
Source: Washington County, Met. Council, MnGeo, MnDOT, Esri
!I
Future Land Use
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Agricultural Preserves
Highway
1 | P a g e
Date of Meeting: July 16, 2024
To: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
From: T.J. Hofer, Consultant City Planner
Re: Update: Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Density and Zoning
Discussion
The City Council approved a Comprehensive Plan Amendment at their May 21, 2024, meeting.
This amendment was submitted to the Metropolitan Council (Met Council) for review. The Met
Council has determined the application to be “incomplete.” The incomplete letter is attached.
Staff met with the sector representative, Emma Dvorak, and the reviewer for the amendment,
MacKenzie Young-Walters, to discuss the amendment before the incomplete letter was issued.
The Met Council has stated that the amendment is “not compatible” with the Thrive 2040 system
statements. Staff have prepared a presentation to discuss the information received from the Met
Council, which is attached.
Additionally, staff have continued to discuss possible next steps with the Met Council through
email. Those emails are attached for reference and review. Staff requested that the sector
representative or reviewer attend the meeting, but the Met Council staff was unavailable.
RECOMMENDATION
The UDC, and possibly Comp Plan, need to be amended to ensure consistency and the vision of
the City Council. The Council should discuss what they would like development to look like in
the area with the Community Designation of Rural Center. The Council should direct staff
regarding potential needed amendments to the adopted documents
Attachments
1. “Update on Density and Zoning Comprehensive Plan Amendment” Presentation
Slides
2. City of Scandia – Density and Zoning Reference Comprehensive Plan Amendment –
Incomplete for Review, dated July 3, 2024
3. Email from MacKenzie Young-Walters, dated July 10 through July 12, 2024
July 16, 2024
Update on Density and
Zoning Comprehensive Plan
Amendment
▪Council approved submittal of the
comprehensive plan amendment (CPA) for
updates to the 2040 Comprehensive Plan
regarding density and zoning references
▪Metropolitan Council reviews all CPAs within the
seven-county metro
▪City Administrator and City Planner met with
the reviewer and the sector rep from the Met
Council on 6/28
▪CPA was deemed incomplete on July 3, 2024
Density & Zoning CPA Update
▪Density levels are established by the Met
Council and correlates with Community
Designation
Met Council Standards
▪Met Council
designates
Scandia as
Diversified Rural
▪Entire city limited
to maximum
density of
4 du/40 acres
Met Council Standards
▪2040 Comp Plan requested the village area be
changed to Rural Center with “grandfathered”
density of 1 du/2.5 acres
Met Council Standards
1 du/
2.5 acres
4 du/
40 acres
▪1 du/2.5 acres
mirrors Rural
Residential
Community
Designation
▪Met Council has a
standing policy that
no new land can be
designated as Rural
Residential, as the
development pattern
is not conducive to
sewered development
Met Council Standards
▪Future Land Use in the
2040 Comp Plan must
mirror Community
Designations in terms of
density, but is used to
guide types of development
and uses
▪Zoning districts further
refine this and are the tool
to enact comprehensive
plans
Future Land Uses
Community
Designation
Future Land
Use
Zoning
Districts
Abbreviations
Diversified Rural (CD-DR)4 du/40 AC
Rural Center (CD-RC)3–5 du/ 1 AC
Rural Residential (CD-RR)1 du/2.5 AC (preferred at 1/10)
General Rural (FLU-GR)4 du/40 AC
Village Mixed Use (FLU-VMU)1 du/2.5 AC
Village Neighborhood (FLU-VN)1 du/2.5 AC
Village Neighborhood (UDC-VN)1 DU/1.5 AC or 4 DU/40 AC
Village Historic Core (UDC-V-HC)5 DU/40 AC or 5 du/1 acre
Village Center (UDC-V-C)5 DU/40 AC
Community Designations (CD) - Met Council
Future Land Use (FLU) - Comp Plan
UDC (Zoning Districts) / Proposed Future Land Use
Existing Future Land Use Map
1 du/
2.5 acres
4 du/ 40 acres
1 du/
2.5 acres
Council-Approved Future Land
Use Map
4 du/40 acres
OR
1 du/1.5 acres
4 du/ 40 acres
5 du/40 acres
OR
5 du/1 acre
Table II-I –Current Residential Allowed Density Ranges
Future Land Use Category Units/Acres
Agriculture Core 4/40
General Rural 4/40
Village Mixed Use 5/40 or 5/1*
Village Neighborhood 4/40 or 1/1.5*
St. Croix River District 4/40
Agricultural Preserve 1/40
*Densities only available if conditions established in the adopted zoning and subdivision ordinance are met
▪Proposed density based on UDC standards
▪Met Council Issues:
▪Proposed density of 1 du/1.5 acres is too dense for
Village Neighborhood FLU based on the grandfathered
CD-RC 1 du/2.5 acres
▪Village Mixed Use FLU at 5/40 is inconsistent with CD-
DR (4/40)
▪Density bonuses cannot allow higher density than
allowed by Community Designations
▪UDC must be amended to be consistent with the
Comp Plan, or the UDC is not legally defendable
▪UDC-VN, UDC-V-HC, and UDC-V-C are not consistent
▪Open Space Conservation Planned Unit Development
(OS-PUD) 75% bonus is not allowable per Met Council
Met Council Issues
▪Do not amend Comp Plan
▪UDC would need to be amended to be consistent with the Comp Plan
▪UDC could be amended to require certain standards to allow for development at 1 du/2.5 acres, but they cannot be discretionary (plat v. PUD) (see email from Met Council)
▪Amend Comp Plan to redraw FLU-VN area
▪The Future Land Use map could be amended to redraw where the area that can be developed at 1 du/2.5 acres to limit where higher density development happens
▪Met Council has stated that if the area is reduced, it will never be allowed to be expanded with the 1 du/2.5 acres exception
▪UDC could still be amended to require certain standards for this density (see email from Met Council)
▪Amend Comp Plan to be consistent with Met Council standards
▪CD-RC would allow for 3-5 du/1 acre
▪UDC could be amended to require certain standards for different levels of density (see email from Met Council)
Options
▪The UDC, and possibly Comp
Plan, need to be amended to
ensure consistency and the
vision of the City Council
▪The Council should discuss
what they would like
development to look like in
the area with the Community
Designation of Rural Center
▪The Council should direct
staff regarding potential
needed amendments to
adopted documents
Steps Forward
Metropolitan Council (Regional Office & Environmental Services)
390 Robert Street North, Saint Paul, MN 55101-1805
P 651.602.1000 | F 651.602.1550 | TTY 651.291.0904
metrocouncil.org
An Equal Opportunity Employer
July 3, 2024
T.J. Hofer, City Planner
City of Scandia
14727 209th Street North
Scandia, MN 55073
RE: City of Scandia – Density and Zoning Reference Comprehensive Plan Amendment –
Incomplete for Review
Metropolitan Council Review File No. 21979-9
Metropolitan Council District No.
Dear T.J. Hofer:
The Metropolitan Council received the City’s Density and Zoning Reference comprehensive plan
amendment for review on June 12, 2024. Council staff finds that parts of the plan amendment submittal
are incomplete and further review has been suspended pending receipt of the following:
Forecasts (Todd Graham, 651-602-1322)
Land use Tables II-O and II-M should be updated to fully incorporate the changes in Village
Neighborhood, General Rural and Agricultural Core acreage and the density permitted without
discretionary (i.e. PUD) approvals.
Land Use (MacKenzie Young-Walters, 651-602-1373)
• The area guided Village Neighborhood (VN) and Village Mixed Use (VM) have the Rural Center
Community Designation. Thrive MSP 2040 (Thrive) requires Rural Centers to plan for a density
range of 3 to 5 units per acre; however, in the City’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan the Metropolitan
Council agreed to a maximum density of 1 unit per 2.5 acres for these areas in deference to the
existing development pattern and limitations presented by the City’s wastewater treatment
systems. A limited expansion of the area guided VN was also permitted to accommodate desired
growth and provide support for the historic village center. Any change from the existing 1 unit per
2.5 acres density permitted in the portion of the community designated as a Rural Center would
need to be consistent with the density ranges established in Thrive.
The proposed change to a density range of 4 units per 40 acres to 1 unit per 1.5 acres (subject to
PUD approval) for the area guided VN is not compatible with the Rural Center designation, nor is
it compatible with the Diversified Rural designation, which Thrive limits to a maximum density of 4
units per 40 acres, present in the rest of the community. Similarly, the proposed density range of 5
units per 40 acres to 5 units per acre for the area guided VM is not compatible with either
designation.
• The text within the various land use categories indicates that density bonuses of up to 75%
beyond the listed maximum density may be permitted through zoning approvals. The density
listed in the land use section of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan establishes the maximum
permitted density and any zoning approvals must fall within the established range. The density
described in the description of the land use categories should be reconciled with the established
Page - 2 | July 3, 2024 | METROPOLITAN COUNCIL
density ranges. Per Minn. Stat. § 473.858, if the comprehensive plan conflicts with the zoning
ordinance, the zoning ordinance shall be brought into conformance with the plan. Alternatively,
the City can amend the maximum allowed density across the land use category.
• Tables II-I, II-M, and II-O must reflect the amended acreage totals for each land use category, the
allowed density without discretionary (i.e. PUD) approvals and be consistent with the text
descriptions of the land use categories, as applicable. These tables must also be reconciled with
each other (i.e. acreages listed in II-O must correspond to those listed II-M).
• The labels on the first two land use maps submitted as part of the Comprehensive Plan
Amendment appear to be reversed compared to the land use maps present in the attached staff
report and comprehensive plan. The labels should be reconciled and the areas that are being
reguided should be explicitly identified.
After the supplemental information is received and evaluated, if staff finds the plan complete the
Council’s review process will be restarted.
If you have any questions about the information requested in this letter or about the review process,
please feel free to contact the technical reviewers directly. You may also contact the Principal Reviewer,
MacKenzie Young-Walters, at 651-602-1373 or via email at MacKenzie.Young-
Walterst@metc.state.mn.us. As always, you can also contact your Sector Representative, Emma Dvorak,
at 651-602-1373 or via email at Emma.Dvorak@metc.state.mn.us.
Sincerely,
Angela R. Torres, AICP, Senior Manager
Local Planning Assistance
CC: Gail Cederberg, Metropolitan Council District No. 11
Emma Dvorak, Sector Representative
MacKenzie Young-Walters, Principal Reviewer
Reviews Coordinator
N:\CommDev\LPA\Communities\Scandia\Letters\Scandia 2024 Density and Zoning Reference CPA Incomplete 21979-9.docx
Re: Scandia 2024 Density and Zoning Reference CPA Incomplete 21979-9
TJ Hofer <tj.hofer@bolton-menk.com>
Fri 7/12/2024 9:23 AM
To: Young-Walters, MacKenzie <Mackenzie.Young-Walters@metc.state.mn.us>; Dvorak, Emma
<Emma.Dvorak@metc.state.mn.us>
Cc: Kyle Morell <k.morell@ci.scandia.mn.us>; Brenda Eklund <b.eklund@ci.scandia.mn.us>
Thanks, MacKenzie. We will discuss and get back to you.
During our mee ng I think I requested a copy of the staff report from when the 2040 Comp Plan was approved.
Can you please send me a PDF of that?
Thanks,
T.J. Hofer
Planner II
Bolton & Menk, Inc.
Phone: 612-271-6984
www.Bolton-Menk.com
Book time to meet with me
From: Young-Walters, MacKenzie <Mackenzie.Young-Walters@metc.state.mn.us>
Sent: Thursday, July 11, 2024 4:26 PM
To: TJ Hofer <tj.hofer@bolton-menk.com>; Dvorak, Emma <Emma.Dvorak@metc.state.mn.us>
Cc: Kyle Morell <k.morell@ci.scandia.mn.us>; Brenda Eklund <b.eklund@ci.scandia.mn.us>
Subject: RE: Scandia 2024 Density and Zoning Reference CPA Incomplete 21979-9
T.J.,
The Metropolitan Council's position is that Zoning should be handled at a local level. State law
requires the zoning code to be consistent with the comprehensive plan. A zoning code that
results in some areas being unable to develop at their land use’s maximum permitted density is
common. However, a zoning code that establishes criteria that prevent areas from developing at
anything near their permitted density would be vulnerable to challenges under Minn. Stat. §
473.858.
A zoning code that said an area was limited to 4 per 40 unless X, Y, and Z were true would not
be consistent with the comprehensive plan’s because it would be essentially creating a 4 per 40
zoning for a portion of the city which is incompatible with the Rural Center ’s 1 per 2.5
designation. A zoning code that said that to subdivide a site needed to have X characteristics
would be fine, even if in some cases those criteria meant a five-acre property was not able to
subdivide into two 2.5 acre lots.
Regarding the 4 per 40 questions, it is not a city wide average. For example, if a thousand
acres were guided at 4 per 40 the City could not require that the 100 permitted units be placed
within a 150-acre section of those 1,000 acres while the other 850 acres were left undeveloped.
That being said, mechanisms like transfer of development rights could allow an owner of 80
acres to cluster the 8 units they are permitted on one portion of their property. To further clarify,
the City could not use land use guidance to limit a 160-acre area to 1 per 40 and then permit
another 40 acres to develop at 1 per 2.5 with the rational that between these two developments
it averages out to 4 per 40.
7/12/24, 9:36 AM Mail - TJ Hofer - Outlook
https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAMkADFjNzJlYjA5LWIwODgtNGY1Ny1hNjQyLWZmNzY5YjJlMTJkMABGAAAAAABnWVF1sVCLT7CuDtObP…1/5
Please let us know if you have any additional questions.
Thanks,
-MacKenzie
MacKenzie Young-Walters, AICP
Pronouns: he/him/his
Senior Planner | Local Planning Assistance
Community Development
P. 651-602-1373
MacKenzie Young-Walters, AICP
Pronouns: he/him/his
Senior Planner | Local Planning Assistance
Community Development
P. 651-602-1373
From: TJ Hofer <tj.hofer@bolton-menk.com>
Sent: Wednesday, July 10, 2024 2:33 PM
To: Young-Walters, MacKenzie <Mackenzie.Young-Walters@metc.state.mn.us>; Dvorak, Emma
<Emma.Dvorak@metc.state.mn.us>
Cc: Kyle Morell <k.morell@ci.scandia.mn.us>; Brenda Eklund <b.eklund@ci.scandia.mn.us>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Re: Scandia 2024 Density and Zoning Reference CPA Incomplete 21979-9
MacKenzie,
Thanks for the follow up. I do have concerns and ques ons regarding some of these, but there is one answer I
need for Council next week. Within the Rural Center that's allowed a maximum density of 1 dwelling per 2.5
acres, can the City establish zoning standards that only allow development at that maximum density if certain
standards are met, assuming the standards are not discre onary?
I believe that you said yes to this in the mee ng, but I wanted to make sure.
It might also be helpful to clarify, does the Met Council consider density at a City wide level or at a 40 acres level
such as through quarter-quarter sec ons?
Thank you,
T.J. Hofer
Planner II
Bolton & Menk, Inc.
Phone: 612-271-6984
www.Bolton-Menk.com
Book time to meet with me
From: Young-Walters, MacKenzie <Mackenzie.Young-Walters@metc.state.mn.us>
Sent: Wednesday, July 10, 2024 1:28 PM
To: TJ Hofer <tj.hofer@bolton-menk.com>; Dvorak, Emma <Emma.Dvorak@metc.state.mn.us>
Cc: Kyle Morell <k.morell@ci.scandia.mn.us>; Brenda Eklund <b.eklund@ci.scandia.mn.us>
Subject: RE: Scandia 2024 Density and Zoning Reference CPA Incomplete 21979-9
7/12/24, 9:36 AM Mail - TJ Hofer - Outlook
https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAMkADFjNzJlYjA5LWIwODgtNGY1Ny1hNjQyLWZmNzY5YjJlMTJkMABGAAAAAABnWVF1sVCLT7CuDtObP…2/5
T.J.,
I received your voicemail and was pu ng the final touches on an email that I was dra ing following up on our June 28th mee ng. I am hopeful that
these responses will provide some clarity; however, I an cipate that it may make sense to set up a follow-up call to talk through a few of the answers
and address anything that I may have missed. Unfortunately, since we are s ll in the process of wri ng the Imagine 2050 Regional Development Guide
the answers to some of your ques ons about the 2050 Comprehensive Planning Cycle will not be known un l the Metropolitan Council adopts the final
RDG in Q1 of 2025. Below I have listed my understanding of your ques ons from our last mee ng and the answers that we were able to gather.
Q: Would a Rural Residen al Community Designa on be possible?
A: No, Thive 2040 policy is not to expand the Rural Residen al Community Designa on. It is our strong belief that this policy will be maintained in
Imagine 2050.
Q: If an area currently guided for 1 unit per 2.5 acres were to be reguided to 4 units per 40 acres, would it be possible to return to the 1 unit per 2.5
acres at some point in the future?
A: No, the 2040 Comprehensive Plan permi ed a legacy development pa ern that does not strictly speaking conform to the Thrive 2040 Rural Center
density range. Any change from the 1 per 2.5 would need to align with the density policy for a Community Designa on (either 4 per 40 for Diversified
Rural or 3-5 units per acre for Rural Center) and any subsequent amendment would need to fall into one of those categories.
Q: Can Scandia take advantage of the Flexible Residen al Development Ordinance Guidelines (Flexible Development Guidelines) for the Diversified Rural
Area?
A: Yes, with some caveats. You can use these for the areas of your community guided for Diversified Rural Development; however, the result cannot be
incompa ble with Metropolitan Council Policy. Implemen ng these would be a major conversa on between the City and your sector representa ve.
The areas of your community designated as Rural Center would not be eligible for this program. As I men oned, our staff expert on these guidelines is
currently on vaca on, but when we she is back it may make sense to set up a mee ng with her and your sector representa ve to talk about what this
could look like. In the interest of transparency, it is very likely that the Flexible Development Guidelines will be modified as part of Imagine 2050. We are
just beginning those conversa ons so I cannot provide any insights on what those changes are likely to be.
Q: Can Scandia con nue to use density bonuses, for example the City currently allows up to 7 units per 40 acres with open space preserva on.
A: It is complicated. It is likely that through a combina on of the above-men oned Flexible Development Guidelines and amending the comprehensive
plan to reflect the maximum density ranges inclusive of density bonuses, some addi onal density can be granted for the Diversified Rural areas. Exactly
how much and under what condi ons, would depend on how the Flexible Development Guidelines end up being implemented. I will cau on that our
manager expressed concern that 7 per 40 would likely not align with the Metropolitan Council’s policies. The big concern on our end is that the
permi ed flexibility is not used to create a Rura Residen al Community Designa on in all but name.
Q: How will Imagine 2050 impact the exis ng 1 unit per 2.5-acre areas?
A: I know that is a huge ques on for your community; however, as was men oned earlier, we cannot answer it with any degree of certainty un l
Imagine 2050 is adopted. In its current dra from, there is more of an emphasis re-evalua ng exis ng areas in the light of new policies than was present
in Thrive 2040; however, we also understand that there are communi es that have unique characteris cs that may s ll warrant the recogni on of
historical development pa erns or prac cal constraints to mee ng new policies. Exactly where the balance on those considera ons ends being struck is
currently unknowable.
Regarding the City Council mee ng on July 16th, I do not believe that we will be able to a end. We would be happy to meet with you either before or
a er the mee ng to go over staff and the City Council’s ques ons. Prior to the mee ng our availability is as follows:
July 11th: 1-2 p.m.
July 12th: 10:30-12:00 p.m., 3:00-4:00 p.m.
July 15th: 9:30-11:00 p.m., 3:00-4:30 p.m.
Sincerely,
-MacKenzie
MacKenzie Young-Walters, AICP
Pronouns: he/him/his
Senior Planner | Local Planning Assistance
Community Development
P. 651-602-1373
From: TJ Hofer <tj.hofer@bolton-menk.com>
Sent: Wednesday, July 10, 2024 11:41 AM
7/12/24, 9:36 AM Mail - TJ Hofer - Outlook
https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAMkADFjNzJlYjA5LWIwODgtNGY1Ny1hNjQyLWZmNzY5YjJlMTJkMABGAAAAAABnWVF1sVCLT7CuDtObP…3/5
To: Dvorak, Emma <Emma.Dvorak@metc.state.mn.us>; Young-Walters, MacKenzie <Mackenzie.Young-
Walters@metc.state.mn.us>
Cc: Kyle Morell <k.morell@ci.scandia.mn.us>; Brenda Eklund <b.eklund@ci.scandia.mn.us>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Re: Scandia 2024 Density and Zoning Reference CPA Incomplete 21979-9
Emma and MacKenzie,
We are going to be discussing the incomplete le er, conflicts with Met Council policy, and poten al steps forward
at out July 16, 2024, mee ng. If either of you are available it may be helpful to have a representa ve there from
the Met Council. We do stream all of our mee ngs on Zoom, so you would be able to join that way as well. Our
mee ng starts at 7:00 pm, but I would expect this to be later in the mee ng during our staff reports. The agenda
will be published at the end of the week and can be found here:
h ps://weblink.cityofscandia.com/WebLink/Browse.aspx?id=105162&dbid=0&repo=Laserfiche&cr=1
The Zoom informa on is:
Join Zoom Mee ng
h ps://us06web.zoom.us/j/97331961888?pwd=b2RFWmdHNXQvazAwcXhudjZtT2tUdz09
Mee ng ID: 973 3196 1888
Passcode: 839598
One tap mobile
+13017158592,,97331961888#,,,,*839598# US (Washington DC)
+13126266799,,97331961888#,,,,*839598# US (Chicago)
Dial by your loca on
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Mee ng ID: 973 3196 1888
Passcode: 839598
Find your local number: h ps://us06web.zoom.us/u/keHhiJUWn
Thank you,
T.J. Hofer
Planner II
Bolton & Menk, Inc.
Phone: 612-271-6984
www.Bolton-Menk.com
Book time to meet with me
From: Dingle, Sandi <sandi.dingle@metc.state.mn.us>
Sent: Wednesday, July 3, 2024 3:15 PM
To: TJ Hofer <tj.hofer@bolton-menk.com>
Cc: Cederberg, Gail <Gail.Cederberg@metc.state.mn.us>; Dvorak, Emma <Emma.Dvorak@metc.state.mn.us>;
Young-Walters, MacKenzie <Mackenzie.Young-Walters@metc.state.mn.us>; ReviewsCoordinator
<ReviewsCoordinator@metc.state.mn.us>
Subject: Scandia 2024 Density and Zoning Reference CPA Incomplete 21979-9
The attached letter is being sent to you electronically on 7/3/2024.
7/12/24, 9:36 AM Mail - TJ Hofer - Outlook
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Sandi Dingle
Program Technical Specialist | Regional Planning
sandi.dingle@metc.state.mn.us
P. 651.602.1312 | C. 651.329.0373
390 North Robert Street | St. Paul, MN | 55101 | metrocouncil.org
7/12/24, 9:36 AM Mail - TJ Hofer - Outlook
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1 | P a g e
Date of Meeting: August 7, 2024
To: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
From: T.J. Hofer, Consultant City Planner
Re: Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Density and Zoning Next
Steps Discussion
The City Council approved a Comprehensive Plan Amendment at their May 21, 2024, meeting.
This amendment was submitted to the Metropolitan Council (Met Council) for review. The Met
Council has determined the application to be “incomplete.” The incomplete letter is attached.
The Met Council has stated that the amendment is “not compatible” with the Thrive 2040 system
statements. At the July 16, 2024, City Council meeting, staff gave a presentation to outline the
conflicts with the Met Council and potential steps forward. The staff report from the July
meeting is attached.
RECOMMENDATION
The Council may wish to still amend the Comprehensive Plan to ensure consistency and the
vision of the City Council. What can be amended to meet the vision of the Council is somewhat
limited by Met Council policy and the Thrive 2040 system statement. The Council should
discuss what they would like development to look like in the area with the Community
Designation of Rural Center and if the area of the City currently defined as Rural Center is
appropriate.
The Unified Development Code (UDC) needs to be amended to ensure consistency with the
Comprehensive Plan and the vision of the City Council. The Council should discuss potential
amendments to the UDC that directs development in the Village district to match the
Comprehensive Plan.
The Council should direct staff regarding needed amendments to the adopted documents.
Attachments
1. City Council "Update: Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Density and Zoning
Discussion” Packet, July 16, 2024
1 | P a g e
Date of Meeting: July 16, 2024
To: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
From: T.J. Hofer, Consultant City Planner
Re: Update: Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Density and Zoning
Discussion
The City Council approved a Comprehensive Plan Amendment at their May 21, 2024, meeting.
This amendment was submitted to the Metropolitan Council (Met Council) for review. The Met
Council has determined the application to be “incomplete.” The incomplete letter is attached.
Staff met with the sector representative, Emma Dvorak, and the reviewer for the amendment,
MacKenzie Young-Walters, to discuss the amendment before the incomplete letter was issued.
The Met Council has stated that the amendment is “not compatible” with the Thrive 2040 system
statements. Staff have prepared a presentation to discuss the information received from the Met
Council, which is attached.
Additionally, staff have continued to discuss possible next steps with the Met Council through
email. Those emails are attached for reference and review. Staff requested that the sector
representative or reviewer attend the meeting, but the Met Council staff was unavailable.
RECOMMENDATION
The UDC, and possibly Comp Plan, need to be amended to ensure consistency and the vision of
the City Council. The Council should discuss what they would like development to look like in
the area with the Community Designation of Rural Center. The Council should direct staff
regarding potential needed amendments to the adopted documents
Attachments
1. “Update on Density and Zoning Comprehensive Plan Amendment” Presentation
Slides
2. City of Scandia – Density and Zoning Reference Comprehensive Plan Amendment –
Incomplete for Review, dated July 3, 2024
3. Email from MacKenzie Young-Walters, dated July 10 through July 12, 2024
July 16, 2024
Update on Density and
Zoning Comprehensive Plan
Amendment
▪Council approved submittal of the
comprehensive plan amendment (CPA) for
updates to the 2040 Comprehensive Plan
regarding density and zoning references
▪Metropolitan Council reviews all CPAs within the
seven-county metro
▪City Administrator and City Planner met with
the reviewer and the sector rep from the Met
Council on 6/28
▪CPA was deemed incomplete on July 3, 2024
Density & Zoning CPA Update
▪Density levels are established by the Met
Council and correlates with Community
Designation
Met Council Standards
▪Met Council
designates
Scandia as
Diversified Rural
▪Entire city limited
to maximum
density of
4 du/40 acres
Met Council Standards
▪2040 Comp Plan requested the village area be
changed to Rural Center with “grandfathered”
density of 1 du/2.5 acres
Met Council Standards
1 du/
2.5 acres
4 du/
40 acres
▪1 du/2.5 acres
mirrors Rural
Residential
Community
Designation
▪Met Council has a
standing policy that
no new land can be
designated as Rural
Residential, as the
development pattern
is not conducive to
sewered development
Met Council Standards
▪Future Land Use in the
2040 Comp Plan must
mirror Community
Designations in terms of
density, but is used to
guide types of development
and uses
▪Zoning districts further
refine this and are the tool
to enact comprehensive
plans
Future Land Uses
Community
Designation
Future Land
Use
Zoning
Districts
Abbreviations
Diversified Rural (CD-DR)4 du/40 AC
Rural Center (CD-RC)3–5 du/ 1 AC
Rural Residential (CD-RR)1 du/2.5 AC (preferred at 1/10)
General Rural (FLU-GR)4 du/40 AC
Village Mixed Use (FLU-VMU)1 du/2.5 AC
Village Neighborhood (FLU-VN)1 du/2.5 AC
Village Neighborhood (UDC-VN)1 DU/1.5 AC or 4 DU/40 AC
Village Historic Core (UDC-V-HC)5 DU/40 AC or 5 du/1 acre
Village Center (UDC-V-C)5 DU/40 AC
Community Designations (CD) - Met Council
Future Land Use (FLU) - Comp Plan
UDC (Zoning Districts) / Proposed Future Land Use
Existing Future Land Use Map
1 du/
2.5 acres
4 du/ 40 acres
1 du/
2.5 acres
Council-Approved Future Land
Use Map
4 du/40 acres
OR
1 du/1.5 acres
4 du/ 40 acres
5 du/40 acres
OR
5 du/1 acre
Table II-I –Current Residential Allowed Density Ranges
Future Land Use Category Units/Acres
Agriculture Core 4/40
General Rural 4/40
Village Mixed Use 5/40 or 5/1*
Village Neighborhood 4/40 or 1/1.5*
St. Croix River District 4/40
Agricultural Preserve 1/40
*Densities only available if conditions established in the adopted zoning and subdivision ordinance are met
▪Proposed density based on UDC standards
▪Met Council Issues:
▪Proposed density of 1 du/1.5 acres is too dense for
Village Neighborhood FLU based on the grandfathered
CD-RC 1 du/2.5 acres
▪Village Mixed Use FLU at 5/40 is inconsistent with CD-
DR (4/40)
▪Density bonuses cannot allow higher density than
allowed by Community Designations
▪UDC must be amended to be consistent with the
Comp Plan, or the UDC is not legally defendable
▪UDC-VN, UDC-V-HC, and UDC-V-C are not consistent
▪Open Space Conservation Planned Unit Development
(OS-PUD) 75% bonus is not allowable per Met Council
Met Council Issues
▪Do not amend Comp Plan
▪UDC would need to be amended to be consistent with the Comp Plan
▪UDC could be amended to require certain standards to allow for development at 1 du/2.5 acres, but they cannot be discretionary (plat v. PUD) (see email from Met Council)
▪Amend Comp Plan to redraw FLU-VN area
▪The Future Land Use map could be amended to redraw where the area that can be developed at 1 du/2.5 acres to limit where higher density development happens
▪Met Council has stated that if the area is reduced, it will never be allowed to be expanded with the 1 du/2.5 acres exception
▪UDC could still be amended to require certain standards for this density (see email from Met Council)
▪Amend Comp Plan to be consistent with Met Council standards
▪CD-RC would allow for 3-5 du/1 acre
▪UDC could be amended to require certain standards for different levels of density (see email from Met Council)
Options
▪The UDC, and possibly Comp
Plan, need to be amended to
ensure consistency and the
vision of the City Council
▪The Council should discuss
what they would like
development to look like in
the area with the Community
Designation of Rural Center
▪The Council should direct
staff regarding potential
needed amendments to
adopted documents
Steps Forward
Metropolitan Council (Regional Office & Environmental Services)
390 Robert Street North, Saint Paul, MN 55101-1805
P 651.602.1000 | F 651.602.1550 | TTY 651.291.0904
metrocouncil.org
An Equal Opportunity Employer
July 3, 2024
T.J. Hofer, City Planner
City of Scandia
14727 209th Street North
Scandia, MN 55073
RE: City of Scandia – Density and Zoning Reference Comprehensive Plan Amendment –
Incomplete for Review
Metropolitan Council Review File No. 21979-9
Metropolitan Council District No.
Dear T.J. Hofer:
The Metropolitan Council received the City’s Density and Zoning Reference comprehensive plan
amendment for review on June 12, 2024. Council staff finds that parts of the plan amendment submittal
are incomplete and further review has been suspended pending receipt of the following:
Forecasts (Todd Graham, 651-602-1322)
Land use Tables II-O and II-M should be updated to fully incorporate the changes in Village
Neighborhood, General Rural and Agricultural Core acreage and the density permitted without
discretionary (i.e. PUD) approvals.
Land Use (MacKenzie Young-Walters, 651-602-1373)
• The area guided Village Neighborhood (VN) and Village Mixed Use (VM) have the Rural Center
Community Designation. Thrive MSP 2040 (Thrive) requires Rural Centers to plan for a density
range of 3 to 5 units per acre; however, in the City’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan the Metropolitan
Council agreed to a maximum density of 1 unit per 2.5 acres for these areas in deference to the
existing development pattern and limitations presented by the City’s wastewater treatment
systems. A limited expansion of the area guided VN was also permitted to accommodate desired
growth and provide support for the historic village center. Any change from the existing 1 unit per
2.5 acres density permitted in the portion of the community designated as a Rural Center would
need to be consistent with the density ranges established in Thrive.
The proposed change to a density range of 4 units per 40 acres to 1 unit per 1.5 acres (subject to
PUD approval) for the area guided VN is not compatible with the Rural Center designation, nor is
it compatible with the Diversified Rural designation, which Thrive limits to a maximum density of 4
units per 40 acres, present in the rest of the community. Similarly, the proposed density range of 5
units per 40 acres to 5 units per acre for the area guided VM is not compatible with either
designation.
• The text within the various land use categories indicates that density bonuses of up to 75%
beyond the listed maximum density may be permitted through zoning approvals. The density
listed in the land use section of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan establishes the maximum
permitted density and any zoning approvals must fall within the established range. The density
described in the description of the land use categories should be reconciled with the established
Page - 2 | July 3, 2024 | METROPOLITAN COUNCIL
density ranges. Per Minn. Stat. § 473.858, if the comprehensive plan conflicts with the zoning
ordinance, the zoning ordinance shall be brought into conformance with the plan. Alternatively,
the City can amend the maximum allowed density across the land use category.
• Tables II-I, II-M, and II-O must reflect the amended acreage totals for each land use category, the
allowed density without discretionary (i.e. PUD) approvals and be consistent with the text
descriptions of the land use categories, as applicable. These tables must also be reconciled with
each other (i.e. acreages listed in II-O must correspond to those listed II-M).
• The labels on the first two land use maps submitted as part of the Comprehensive Plan
Amendment appear to be reversed compared to the land use maps present in the attached staff
report and comprehensive plan. The labels should be reconciled and the areas that are being
reguided should be explicitly identified.
After the supplemental information is received and evaluated, if staff finds the plan complete the
Council’s review process will be restarted.
If you have any questions about the information requested in this letter or about the review process,
please feel free to contact the technical reviewers directly. You may also contact the Principal Reviewer,
MacKenzie Young-Walters, at 651-602-1373 or via email at MacKenzie.Young-
Walterst@metc.state.mn.us. As always, you can also contact your Sector Representative, Emma Dvorak,
at 651-602-1373 or via email at Emma.Dvorak@metc.state.mn.us.
Sincerely,
Angela R. Torres, AICP, Senior Manager
Local Planning Assistance
CC: Gail Cederberg, Metropolitan Council District No. 11
Emma Dvorak, Sector Representative
MacKenzie Young-Walters, Principal Reviewer
Reviews Coordinator
N:\CommDev\LPA\Communities\Scandia\Letters\Scandia 2024 Density and Zoning Reference CPA Incomplete 21979-9.docx
Re: Scandia 2024 Density and Zoning Reference CPA Incomplete 21979-9
TJ Hofer <tj.hofer@bolton-menk.com>
Fri 7/12/2024 9:23 AM
To: Young-Walters, MacKenzie <Mackenzie.Young-Walters@metc.state.mn.us>; Dvorak, Emma
<Emma.Dvorak@metc.state.mn.us>
Cc: Kyle Morell <k.morell@ci.scandia.mn.us>; Brenda Eklund <b.eklund@ci.scandia.mn.us>
Thanks, MacKenzie. We will discuss and get back to you.
During our mee ng I think I requested a copy of the staff report from when the 2040 Comp Plan was approved.
Can you please send me a PDF of that?
Thanks,
T.J. Hofer
Planner II
Bolton & Menk, Inc.
Phone: 612-271-6984
www.Bolton-Menk.com
Book time to meet with me
From: Young-Walters, MacKenzie <Mackenzie.Young-Walters@metc.state.mn.us>
Sent: Thursday, July 11, 2024 4:26 PM
To: TJ Hofer <tj.hofer@bolton-menk.com>; Dvorak, Emma <Emma.Dvorak@metc.state.mn.us>
Cc: Kyle Morell <k.morell@ci.scandia.mn.us>; Brenda Eklund <b.eklund@ci.scandia.mn.us>
Subject: RE: Scandia 2024 Density and Zoning Reference CPA Incomplete 21979-9
T.J.,
The Metropolitan Council's position is that Zoning should be handled at a local level. State law
requires the zoning code to be consistent with the comprehensive plan. A zoning code that
results in some areas being unable to develop at their land use’s maximum permitted density is
common. However, a zoning code that establishes criteria that prevent areas from developing at
anything near their permitted density would be vulnerable to challenges under Minn. Stat. §
473.858.
A zoning code that said an area was limited to 4 per 40 unless X, Y, and Z were true would not
be consistent with the comprehensive plan’s because it would be essentially creating a 4 per 40
zoning for a portion of the city which is incompatible with the Rural Center ’s 1 per 2.5
designation. A zoning code that said that to subdivide a site needed to have X characteristics
would be fine, even if in some cases those criteria meant a five-acre property was not able to
subdivide into two 2.5 acre lots.
Regarding the 4 per 40 questions, it is not a city wide average. For example, if a thousand
acres were guided at 4 per 40 the City could not require that the 100 permitted units be placed
within a 150-acre section of those 1,000 acres while the other 850 acres were left undeveloped.
That being said, mechanisms like transfer of development rights could allow an owner of 80
acres to cluster the 8 units they are permitted on one portion of their property. To further clarify,
the City could not use land use guidance to limit a 160-acre area to 1 per 40 and then permit
another 40 acres to develop at 1 per 2.5 with the rational that between these two developments
it averages out to 4 per 40.
7/12/24, 9:36 AM Mail - TJ Hofer - Outlook
https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAMkADFjNzJlYjA5LWIwODgtNGY1Ny1hNjQyLWZmNzY5YjJlMTJkMABGAAAAAABnWVF1sVCLT7CuDtObP…1/5
Please let us know if you have any additional questions.
Thanks,
-MacKenzie
MacKenzie Young-Walters, AICP
Pronouns: he/him/his
Senior Planner | Local Planning Assistance
Community Development
P. 651-602-1373
MacKenzie Young-Walters, AICP
Pronouns: he/him/his
Senior Planner | Local Planning Assistance
Community Development
P. 651-602-1373
From: TJ Hofer <tj.hofer@bolton-menk.com>
Sent: Wednesday, July 10, 2024 2:33 PM
To: Young-Walters, MacKenzie <Mackenzie.Young-Walters@metc.state.mn.us>; Dvorak, Emma
<Emma.Dvorak@metc.state.mn.us>
Cc: Kyle Morell <k.morell@ci.scandia.mn.us>; Brenda Eklund <b.eklund@ci.scandia.mn.us>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Re: Scandia 2024 Density and Zoning Reference CPA Incomplete 21979-9
MacKenzie,
Thanks for the follow up. I do have concerns and ques ons regarding some of these, but there is one answer I
need for Council next week. Within the Rural Center that's allowed a maximum density of 1 dwelling per 2.5
acres, can the City establish zoning standards that only allow development at that maximum density if certain
standards are met, assuming the standards are not discre onary?
I believe that you said yes to this in the mee ng, but I wanted to make sure.
It might also be helpful to clarify, does the Met Council consider density at a City wide level or at a 40 acres level
such as through quarter-quarter sec ons?
Thank you,
T.J. Hofer
Planner II
Bolton & Menk, Inc.
Phone: 612-271-6984
www.Bolton-Menk.com
Book time to meet with me
From: Young-Walters, MacKenzie <Mackenzie.Young-Walters@metc.state.mn.us>
Sent: Wednesday, July 10, 2024 1:28 PM
To: TJ Hofer <tj.hofer@bolton-menk.com>; Dvorak, Emma <Emma.Dvorak@metc.state.mn.us>
Cc: Kyle Morell <k.morell@ci.scandia.mn.us>; Brenda Eklund <b.eklund@ci.scandia.mn.us>
Subject: RE: Scandia 2024 Density and Zoning Reference CPA Incomplete 21979-9
7/12/24, 9:36 AM Mail - TJ Hofer - Outlook
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T.J.,
I received your voicemail and was pu ng the final touches on an email that I was dra ing following up on our June 28th mee ng. I am hopeful that
these responses will provide some clarity; however, I an cipate that it may make sense to set up a follow-up call to talk through a few of the answers
and address anything that I may have missed. Unfortunately, since we are s ll in the process of wri ng the Imagine 2050 Regional Development Guide
the answers to some of your ques ons about the 2050 Comprehensive Planning Cycle will not be known un l the Metropolitan Council adopts the final
RDG in Q1 of 2025. Below I have listed my understanding of your ques ons from our last mee ng and the answers that we were able to gather.
Q: Would a Rural Residen al Community Designa on be possible?
A: No, Thive 2040 policy is not to expand the Rural Residen al Community Designa on. It is our strong belief that this policy will be maintained in
Imagine 2050.
Q: If an area currently guided for 1 unit per 2.5 acres were to be reguided to 4 units per 40 acres, would it be possible to return to the 1 unit per 2.5
acres at some point in the future?
A: No, the 2040 Comprehensive Plan permi ed a legacy development pa ern that does not strictly speaking conform to the Thrive 2040 Rural Center
density range. Any change from the 1 per 2.5 would need to align with the density policy for a Community Designa on (either 4 per 40 for Diversified
Rural or 3-5 units per acre for Rural Center) and any subsequent amendment would need to fall into one of those categories.
Q: Can Scandia take advantage of the Flexible Residen al Development Ordinance Guidelines (Flexible Development Guidelines) for the Diversified Rural
Area?
A: Yes, with some caveats. You can use these for the areas of your community guided for Diversified Rural Development; however, the result cannot be
incompa ble with Metropolitan Council Policy. Implemen ng these would be a major conversa on between the City and your sector representa ve.
The areas of your community designated as Rural Center would not be eligible for this program. As I men oned, our staff expert on these guidelines is
currently on vaca on, but when we she is back it may make sense to set up a mee ng with her and your sector representa ve to talk about what this
could look like. In the interest of transparency, it is very likely that the Flexible Development Guidelines will be modified as part of Imagine 2050. We are
just beginning those conversa ons so I cannot provide any insights on what those changes are likely to be.
Q: Can Scandia con nue to use density bonuses, for example the City currently allows up to 7 units per 40 acres with open space preserva on.
A: It is complicated. It is likely that through a combina on of the above-men oned Flexible Development Guidelines and amending the comprehensive
plan to reflect the maximum density ranges inclusive of density bonuses, some addi onal density can be granted for the Diversified Rural areas. Exactly
how much and under what condi ons, would depend on how the Flexible Development Guidelines end up being implemented. I will cau on that our
manager expressed concern that 7 per 40 would likely not align with the Metropolitan Council’s policies. The big concern on our end is that the
permi ed flexibility is not used to create a Rura Residen al Community Designa on in all but name.
Q: How will Imagine 2050 impact the exis ng 1 unit per 2.5-acre areas?
A: I know that is a huge ques on for your community; however, as was men oned earlier, we cannot answer it with any degree of certainty un l
Imagine 2050 is adopted. In its current dra from, there is more of an emphasis re-evalua ng exis ng areas in the light of new policies than was present
in Thrive 2040; however, we also understand that there are communi es that have unique characteris cs that may s ll warrant the recogni on of
historical development pa erns or prac cal constraints to mee ng new policies. Exactly where the balance on those considera ons ends being struck is
currently unknowable.
Regarding the City Council mee ng on July 16th, I do not believe that we will be able to a end. We would be happy to meet with you either before or
a er the mee ng to go over staff and the City Council’s ques ons. Prior to the mee ng our availability is as follows:
July 11th: 1-2 p.m.
July 12th: 10:30-12:00 p.m., 3:00-4:00 p.m.
July 15th: 9:30-11:00 p.m., 3:00-4:30 p.m.
Sincerely,
-MacKenzie
MacKenzie Young-Walters, AICP
Pronouns: he/him/his
Senior Planner | Local Planning Assistance
Community Development
P. 651-602-1373
From: TJ Hofer <tj.hofer@bolton-menk.com>
Sent: Wednesday, July 10, 2024 11:41 AM
7/12/24, 9:36 AM Mail - TJ Hofer - Outlook
https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAMkADFjNzJlYjA5LWIwODgtNGY1Ny1hNjQyLWZmNzY5YjJlMTJkMABGAAAAAABnWVF1sVCLT7CuDtObP…3/5
To: Dvorak, Emma <Emma.Dvorak@metc.state.mn.us>; Young-Walters, MacKenzie <Mackenzie.Young-
Walters@metc.state.mn.us>
Cc: Kyle Morell <k.morell@ci.scandia.mn.us>; Brenda Eklund <b.eklund@ci.scandia.mn.us>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Re: Scandia 2024 Density and Zoning Reference CPA Incomplete 21979-9
Emma and MacKenzie,
We are going to be discussing the incomplete le er, conflicts with Met Council policy, and poten al steps forward
at out July 16, 2024, mee ng. If either of you are available it may be helpful to have a representa ve there from
the Met Council. We do stream all of our mee ngs on Zoom, so you would be able to join that way as well. Our
mee ng starts at 7:00 pm, but I would expect this to be later in the mee ng during our staff reports. The agenda
will be published at the end of the week and can be found here:
h ps://weblink.cityofscandia.com/WebLink/Browse.aspx?id=105162&dbid=0&repo=Laserfiche&cr=1
The Zoom informa on is:
Join Zoom Mee ng
h ps://us06web.zoom.us/j/97331961888?pwd=b2RFWmdHNXQvazAwcXhudjZtT2tUdz09
Mee ng ID: 973 3196 1888
Passcode: 839598
One tap mobile
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Find your local number: h ps://us06web.zoom.us/u/keHhiJUWn
Thank you,
T.J. Hofer
Planner II
Bolton & Menk, Inc.
Phone: 612-271-6984
www.Bolton-Menk.com
Book time to meet with me
From: Dingle, Sandi <sandi.dingle@metc.state.mn.us>
Sent: Wednesday, July 3, 2024 3:15 PM
To: TJ Hofer <tj.hofer@bolton-menk.com>
Cc: Cederberg, Gail <Gail.Cederberg@metc.state.mn.us>; Dvorak, Emma <Emma.Dvorak@metc.state.mn.us>;
Young-Walters, MacKenzie <Mackenzie.Young-Walters@metc.state.mn.us>; ReviewsCoordinator
<ReviewsCoordinator@metc.state.mn.us>
Subject: Scandia 2024 Density and Zoning Reference CPA Incomplete 21979-9
The attached letter is being sent to you electronically on 7/3/2024.
7/12/24, 9:36 AM Mail - TJ Hofer - Outlook
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Sandi Dingle
Program Technical Specialist | Regional Planning
sandi.dingle@metc.state.mn.us
P. 651.602.1312 | C. 651.329.0373
390 North Robert Street | St. Paul, MN | 55101 | metrocouncil.org
7/12/24, 9:36 AM Mail - TJ Hofer - Outlook
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