06-02-2026 Plan Commission Agenda and Packet

AGENDA PLAN COMMISSION CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS JUNE 2, 2026 The public may view/listen to the meeting by: • Join by phone: +1-408-418-9388 United States Toll; 1-844-992-4726 United States Toll Free; Access code: 2632 752 3309 • Visiting the web link: https://tinyurl.com/RFPC6226; Webinar number 2632 752 3309; Webinar password: 123456 when dialing from a phone or video system • Viewing the City's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/cityofriverfalls CALL TO ORDER – 6:30 p.m. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE ROLL CALL APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Minutes of the May 5, 2026 Plan Commission meeting PUBLIC COMMENTS ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS 2. Proposed ordinance amendment to Title 17 – Zoning: Chapter 17.124 – Regulations for the protection of wetlands within the shoreland 3. Proposed ordinance amendment to Title 10 – Vehicles and Traffic: Creating Chapter 10.21 relating to electric bicycles and electric scooters REPORTS 4. Planning Update ADJOURNMENT Council members may be in attendance for informational purposes only. No official Council action will be taken. NOTE: Any person who has a qualifying disability as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act that requires the meeting or materials to be in an accessible location or format, may contact City Clerk Amy White at (715) 426-3408 or in person at 222 Lewis Stre et, for accommodations. Requests for accommodation should be made at least three (3) business days in advance of the meeting. Every effort will be made to arrange accommodation. Published: 05/27/26 in the Pierce County Journal; Posted: 05/28/26 Page 1 of 3 Community Development Department 222 Lewis Street River Falls, WI 54022 715.425.0900 www.rfcity.org MINUTES PLAN COMMISSION MAY 5, 2026 CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS Members Present: Rob Gormanson, Diane Odeen, Rebecca Prendergast, Steven Severson, Michael Woolsey, Alison Page, Members Absent: Chris Holtkamp Staff Present: Emily Shively, Becky Corson, Todd Nickleski, Joe Reardon CALL TO ORDER Meeting convened at 6:30 p.m. APPROVAL OF MINUTES M/Odeen, S/Woolsey to approve minutes. Motion carried 6/0. PUBLIC COMMENTS ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS City of River Falls Safe Streets for All (SS4A) Safety Action Plan (SAP) Mitch Coffman with Toole Design gave a presentation on the Safe Streets for All Safety Action Plan. Coffman summarized the City of River Falls Safety Action Plan and that the program is funded federally. The plan is a comprehensive strategy for eliminating traffic injuries and fatalities in River Falls by 2040. C offman indicated this will require a revised approach that will create a system of redundancy to reduce incidents and crashes. Coffman covered the engagement that the task force saw during the durat ion of the engagement portion of the project work. Coffman highlighted the three themes: enhanced pedestrian connections, improving intersections and pedestrian crossing, and better child safety and safety around schools. Coffman explained the trend lines for safety needs and opportunities within the City and that business as usual will not allow us to meet our goal. Coffman indicated that vulnerable road users were involved in 2% of all crashes and 37% of fatal and serious injury crashes. Based on this the first area of enhancing safety of vulnerable road users as they tend to be at a higher risk of death or injury. C offman shared the results of data received during the study and that vulnerable road users feel less safe than someone operating a motor vehicle. Coffman covered the second big takeaway during the completion of the Safety Action Plan is enhanced intersection safety. The data shows that about half of all crashes are within 100 feet of an intersection, including those involving vulnerable road users. 1 Page 2 of 3 Coffman then covered the third top priority which was to improve the general safety near schools especially for children walking and biking. There is an elevated risk for vulnerable road users during the Fall which aligns with back-to-school time. Coffman next discussed the specific safety needs and opportunities in specific locations such as infrastructure investments. The high injury network map shows elevated crashes in areas like Main Street, Cascade, and the Downtown Area. The high-risk network identifies 15% of the roadwork in the City where contextual factors correlated to elevated crash risk. Coffman discussed the maps and what areas have overlap based on 10 years of data collected. Based on the information compiled, the top identified areas of concern are Cascade and Main, Division and Main and Paulson and Main. Coffman next discussed recommended action steps. There were 21 policy and program recommendations. Five general safety recommendations: formalize and institutionalize roadway safety into City policy and planning processes including integration of a safety task force into the City structure, regular reporting on safety measures, ensuring plans are consistent with the Safe System Approach, and encouraging broad Vision Zero commitments. Five safe road user recommendations: foster a safety culture and promote safe behaviors through City staff policies and training, ongoing community engagement and capacity building, safety campaigns, and safety technology integrations. This includes approaches to leverage partnerships to ex pand resources. And finally, two safe vehicle recommendations: enhance vehicle safety by ensuring City fleet and contractor vehicles are sized and equipped with appropriate safety features and operators are trained. Coffman then discussed there are three safe speeds recommendations: promote appropriate vehicle speeds, particularly in school zones, that reflect the roadway context, street activity, and users of all modes. This includes developing a local traffic calming pilot program focused around schools. There were four areas in safe roads: assess and design streets that support safety and accessibility for users of all modes as well as the adjacent land users with specific emphasis on intersections and post-crash evaluations. Also, implement infrastructure safety enhancements by integrating projects, countermeasures, and safety principals into the City’s capital and maintenance program. And finally, two post -crash care items: enhance post -crash support by expanding resources, technologies, and coordination with emergency response a nd trauma centers. Also, partner with community -based organizations to enhance support for those impacted by traffic crashes. Coffman covered some infrastructure countermeasures that could be implemented and a tool to help guide staff on choosing the appropriate countermeasures based on the identified areas. Coffman discussed the priority network which identifies were the City can start with interventions that aligns with data and community input. In addition, Coffman discussed how progress tracking and reporting is required. Coffman summarized that the next steps will be to go to City Council May 12th, and the SS4A Implementation Grant Application deadline is end of May. Discussion was had on the areas identified in the Safety Action Plan and if it can be coordinated when the project on Main Street moves forward. Discussion was also had on how to group the recommended steps to take within the City to help decide what to work on or evaluate doing. Todd Nickleski, City Engineer, covered information on the grants available for the City to apply for and that our intent is to follow Council’s Strategic Initiatives to write an application that covers items in the Safety Action Plan for the Downtown area in hopes of being awarded that. Page 3 of 3 Emily Shively, Asst. Director of Community Development, covered how the planning efforts that we are doing as a City with other related plans layer in the safety action plan to build on each other to then go forward into the vision for the downtown and all are connected and to have multiple functions all happen together. Discussion was had if the data we collect can specify if it is distracted driving compared to bad weather. Coffman indicated it doesn’t specify based on distracted driving, but correlations can be reviewed such as lighting, weather, etc. As well as ways we can possibly gather extra data in the future to help identify causes for accidents. Michael Woolsey made a motion to forward the resolution to adopt the Safe Streets for All Safety Action plan to Council with a recommendation for approval. M/Woolsey, S/Odeen – carried 6/0 Planning Update Emily Shively gave a planning update that there will be a meeting on June 2 nd and the plan is to bring back some of the ordinances we have been working on over time. Shively indicated one of the items is driveway width and that Council wanted more thoughts going back into that. The e - bike and e-scooter amendment will be also coming back in June. The third thing would be some wetland ordinance amendments. ADJOURNMENT Commissioner Odeen made a motion to adjourn at 7:01 p.m. S/Gormanson; motion carried 6/0. Respectfully submitted, Becky Corson, Community Development Coordinator 2 MEMORANDUM TO: Mayor Page and Plan Commissioners FROM: Chris Buntjer, Senior Civil Engineer DATE: June 2, 2026 RE: CHAPTER 17.124 – REGULATIONS FOR THE PROTECTION OF WETLANDS WITHIN THE SHORELAND: PROPOSED CODE UPDATES RECOMMENDED ACTION Forward the enclosed ordinances to City Council with a favorable recommendation. BACKGROUND This memorandum outlines proposed code updates designed to bring the zoning code into conformance with the DNR. The City’s MS4 program was audited by the DNR in November of 2025 and the City received a “City of RF MS4 Audit Program Eval Summary” from the DNR on February 10, 2026. The document identifies 1 required action item for the City to address: “The ordinance or other regulatory mechanism shall establish or include new development and infill, and post-construction performance standards equivalent to those in ss. NR 151.122 through 151.126 and 151.242 through 151.246, Wis. Adm. Code per Section (2.5.1 (c)).” The DNR’s summary specifically calls out NR 151.125 and NR 151.245 , which are “Protective areas performance standards” for wetlands, outstanding and exceptional resource waters, perennial and intermittent streams, and lakes. It appears that the City’s Wetland and Shoreland Protection ordinances (Ch. 17.124 & Ch. 17.128) incorporate the requirements of NR 151, but only within the shoreland zone. DISCUSSION In order to address the DNR’s comment and satisfy State and Federal rules, the City needs to revise its ordinances to require the establishment of protective areas (i.e., buffer areas). These protective areas vary in width depending on the type and quality of surface water feature (i.e., wetland, lake, stream, etc.). Construction activity and impervious surfaces are not prohibited within these protective areas, but must be justified withi n the narrative of the stormwater management plan submitted to the DNR explaining why there is no practical alternative. The proposed ordinance revisions are intended to revise the Wetland and Shoreland ordinances in such a way that they apply to any delineated wetland areas (or other qualifying waters) within 2 the corporate limits of the City, and not just those within the shoreland zone. Additionally, the proposed revisions will clearly specify the DNR’s required buffers for Protective Areas based on type and quality. The proposed updates include: • Changing the Section Title • Revising the General Provisions section to include all wetlands within the City’s corporate limits. • Adding the DNR’s definition of Protective Area, which includes buffers of varying widths depending on resource quality and type. • Revising the Shoreland-wetland zoning district section to include all wetlands within the City’s corporate limits. • Adding requirements for the inclusion of impervious surfaces within Protective Areas in the Shoreland-wetland zoning district section. ANALYSIS Though staff have taken care to ensure that the recommended changes below address DNR concerns, there is room for both qualitative and quantitative adjustments by Plan Commission and City Council. The proposed updates aim to bring City code in alignment with the requirements of its WPDES permit and NR 151, and satisfy the action item from the DNR’s audit. In proposing these ordinance amendments, staff have attempted to incorporate all the elements of NR 151 that did not appear to be present within Ch. 17.124. CONCLUSION The proposed code updates are intended to incorporate all the elements of NR 151 that did not appear to be present within Ch. 17.124 . The City Attorney has reviewed the proposed amendments for statutory compliance and ordinance formatting. RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends that Plan Commission forward the enclosed ordinances to City Council with a favorable recommendation. ATTACHMENTS: A. DNR Letter B. Ordinance: Regulations for the Protection of Wetlands Within the Shoreland February 10, 2026 Todd Nickleski 222 Lewis Street Suite 224 River Falls WI 54022 Subject: City of River Falls MS4 Permit (FIN#31431) Program Evaluation Summary Dear Mr. Nickleski: On November 4th and 5th, 2025 Department of Natural Resources Stormwater staff met with City of River Falls representatives to evaluate implementation of the city’s MS4 Permit Program. This evaluation was conducted through the Department’s authority under Sections 4.12 - 4.13 of the permit. During the evaluation, areas of non- compliance were noted as reflected in Table 1 of the enclosed summary. The “Required Actions” listed must be fully implemented to comply with the permit. “Recommendations” are also made in the table and while not necessarily required, they are items or practices that are hallmarks of a program successfully implementing the permit. Please review this information carefully as it is intended to help the city address items of noncompliance and inform the city’s internal processes and procedures to improve overall consistency and effectiveness of your efforts to improve and protect the water quality of the resources that are one of the big reasons for the city’s growth. The city is subject to the Lake St. Croix TMDL, approved by USEPA in August 2012. It should be noted that the city is in the process of updating their compliance modeling. Evaluation Participants: Department Staff Michelle Asher, Stormwater Specialist Leanne Hinke, Stormwater Specialist Teagan Wagner, Stormwater Engineer City Staff Todd Nickleski, City Engineer Chris Buntjer, Senior Civil Engineer Tyler Galde, Planning & Engineering Technician Erica Ellefson, Public Works Manager Please provide a written response within thirty (30) days of receipt of this letter addressing efforts on behalf of the City to resolve any issues described in the summary and provide a proposed timeline. Thank you for your cooperation with the Department’s Municipal Storm Water Management Program. The time, effort, and patience of your staff extended to us before, during, and after the evaluation were greatly appreciated. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this letter, please contact me at 715-829-5344 or Michelle.Asher@Wisconsin.gov. State of Wisconsin DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES 1300 W. Clairemont Ave. Eau Claire WI 54701 dnr.wi.gov wisconsin.gov Page 2 Sincerely, Michelle Asher Stormwater Specialist Enclosure: 2025 City of River Falls MS4 Permit Program Evaluation Summary Report CC: Leanne Hinke, DNR Stormwater Specialist Teagan Wagner, DNR Stormwater Engineer Chris Buntjer, City of River Falls Senior Civil Engineer Tyler Galde, City of River Falls Planning & Engineering Technician Erica Ellefson, City of River Falls Public Works Manager Page 3 There are 37 permitted MS4s in the West Central Region. Programs were first developed in the west central region in the 1990’s under Phase I permits in accordance with the Clean Water Act and Wisconsin’s delegated NPDES permitting authority under EPA. Storm water runoff (rural and urban) contributes pollutants to streams and lakes and causes impairments. Common pollutants of concern causing these impairments are metals, PAHs, Total Suspended Solids (TSS) and phosphorus. Increases in impervious area, traffic volumes, development density, and non-residential uses associated with urbanized areas contribute additional pollutant generation and runoff. Municipal separate storm sewer systems convey this runoff, in many cases, directly without treatment to surface waters. If a waterway is not impaired, it is expected that this program will sustain existing water quality in the receiving resource. The purpose of the MS4 permit program is to bring awareness to potential causes of and resolutions to urban runoff pollution and to minimize, with the ultimate goal of eliminating, pollution in runoff discharged from the MS4. This is done by introducing enhanced storm water management planning, implementing, and establishing measurable goals in what are typically already existing municipal operations. By periodically inspecting these programs, the Department intends to accomplish three primary objectives: 1. Program Compliance - Determine compliance with the MS4 permit. 2. Program Consistency - Gain a better understanding of the written municipal procedures as it relates to the permit and program implementation, both for the MS4 being inspected (MS4 benefit) and for comparison against other programs statewide (DNR and MS4 benefit) 3. Program Efficacy - Improve operations to meet statewide water quality performance standards and targets established in local water quality planning efforts. The City of River Falls was first permitted in October of 2006 under the Department’s Storm Water Municipal General Permit, WPDES Permit Number WI-S050075-01, and was reissued coverage under the general permit (WPDES Permit Number WI-S050075-3) on February 10, 2022. The general permit can be referenced online at Municipal storm water permit overview | | Wisconsin DNR. The city’s MS4 discharges to Kinnickinnic Watershed, Kinnickinnic River, and South Fork of the Kinnickinnic River, Rocky Run, St. Croix River, and connected unnamed tributaries. The Kinnickinnic and St. Croix Rivers are designated waters listed by the State as Area of Special Natural Resource Interest (ASNRI) for supporting endangered and threatened species. Upstream and downstream of the city limits, the Kinnickinnic River are listed as a Class I trout stream. Class I streams are high quality trout waters that have sufficient natural reproduction to sustain populations of wild trout, at or near carry capacity capable of supporting natural reproduction. The city is subject to the Lake St. Croix TMDL, approved by USEPA in August 2012. It should be noted that the city is in the process of updating their compliance modeling. As part of the audit, the Department reviewed the city’s existing legal authorities (ordinances), procedures for Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination (IDDE) dry-weather field screening and response, procedures for construction site inspection and enforcement, public works yard Storm Water Pollution Prevention Planning (SWPPP), the MS4 map, and the 2025 MS4 Annual Report. These procedures were discussed specifically with the city staff implementing them. The purpose of this discussion was to: 1. Eliminate any inconsistencies between documented procedures and program implementation. 2. Identify areas where program implementation is deficient in meeting the minimum permit requirements. 3. Identify areas where the city is improving or excelling at MS4 program implementation. 4. Clear up any concerns or questions regarding a permit requirement, purpose and intent, and implementation. Page 4 OVERALL PROGRAM MANAGEMENT The MS4 program is managed by several staff working in the Engineering and Public Works Departments for the City of River Falls. Many of the MS4 goals are reported, documented, and well organized through ArcGIS Field Maps and Survey 123 platforms, which allow staff to effectively identify and track construction, maintenance, and facility operations. PUBLIC EDUCATION AND OUTREACH/PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT AND PARTICIPATION – MS4 GP SECTION 2.1-2.2 The city has a number of public education and outreach programs that address storm water, as required by the MS4 permit. Outreach includes Earth Fest, held at the University of Wisconsin River Falls (UWRF) annually on Earth Day, storm drain stenciling by local high school students, river clean-up events, and a rain barrel reimbursement program. The city’s website https://rfmu.org/251/Storm-Water has a page dedicated storm water management, and how it relates to water quality. It includes links to storm water projects previously mentioned as well as other educational/ involvement and information regarding the MS4 permit, along with appropriate city staff contacts. The city is also a member of the regional stormwater consortium, Rain to Rivers of Western Wisconsin (R2R) (https://www.raintorivers.org/), a partnership comprised of several local and county governments that hold MS4 permits and also utilize the group to help fulfill the Public Education and Outreach permit conditions. The consortium provides educational information on all eight topic areas described in Section 2.1.1, Table 1 of the MS4 General Permit through radio advertisements, billboards, and other ad space to educate the public on storm water related issues. R2R also attends various municipal fairs and conferences with a booth manned with a member representative and educational games. R2R members also host and attend various summits, conferences, and meetings in the area. The city also covers many of these topics through their own means, in addition to their involvement in R2R. Stormwater messages specific to several topics have been developed. The City’s web page has information on the Adopt a Pond program, IDDE, what is in stormwater runoff, and fertilizers. Stormwater signs, pet waste dispensers, and receptacles are located in many of the city’s parks. The City has conversations with developers/project managers explaining their “why” behind their stormwater requirements, such as installing construction Best Management Practices (BMPs), and protecting environmentally sensitive areas within project areas. The city also streams annual MS4 report presentations at council meetings on their YouTube page https://www.youtube.com/user/cityofriverfalls. Currently, the effectiveness of outreach activities is not tracked but is noticed by how many ponds are being adopted. Also, construction inspections are improving, and the City is finding less issues and issues are corrected more promptly. Page 5 ILLICIT DISCHARGE DETECTION AND ELIMINATION (IDDE) PROGRAM – MS4 GP SECTION 2.3 The City’s Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination (IDDE) program is implemented by the Engineering and Public Works Departments. The IDDE ordinance was last updated in 2007 and prohibits illicit discharges and provides exemptions for certain non-stormwater discharges, such as firefighting, car washing, and irrigation, found within Chapter 12.18.010 of the ordinance. The City has enforcement mechanisms through Notice of Violations, administrative fines of $187/day and up to $1000/day, emergency cease and desist orders, suspension of MS4 access, and abatement reimbursement. Of the city’s 89 outfalls, all major outfalls (15) and a third of the minor outfalls are inspected annually. To date, no illicit discharges have been detected or reported. Inspections are documented within ArcGIS Survey 123, which maps the locations of each outfall, along with specific inspection data and photos pertaining to each outfall. This information allows city staff and crews to determine what maintenance is needed or has previously been completed for each outfall. The Engineering Department’s number is located on the city’s webpage for the public to report a spill. If a spill occurs after hours, the public is directed to call the DNR Spill Hotline or the Fire Department, both numbers are listed on the website (https://www.rfcity.org/245/Engineering). When complaints are received, they are immediately investigated by engineering staff and an IDDE report form is filled out and kept on file. The City maintains an internal procedure sheet detailing IDDE procedures, appropriate contacts that lead in follow-up procedures, spill cleanup company or contractor. In addition, the City is looking into IDDE sampling kit options to have readily available in staff vehicles and intend to purchase the kits within the next 30 days. Outreach efforts to educate the public about IDDE have been made through signage on display at the local baseball stadium and the MS4 Annual Report is presented to the city council. Annual staff training is provided, and procedures are outlined in Storm Water pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPPs) located at the Public Works building. CONSTRUCTION SITE EROSION CONTROL – MS4 GP SECTION 2.4 The city’s Construction Site Pollutant Control program is led by the City Engineer, Senior Engineer, and Planning and Engineering Technician. The city’s construction site erosion control ordinance requirements were last updated in 2016 with minor changes on post-construction and are found in Chapter 12.16.020.A. The city’s threshold for requiring erosion control permit coverage applies to land development or land disturbing activity of any commercial, industrial or multi-family residential site that would change the stormwater performance the site. Once an application is received, the city’s construction site plan review and permitting procedure begins with the Engineering Department. Plans are then shared, reviewed, and discussed with Public Works and Utility staff. Each plan is required to meet the city’s requirements outlined in the construction site permit checklist for pre- and post-development hydrology, potential impacts of proposed activity, quantity of stormwater discharges, potential impact on water resources and drainage utilities, and effectiveness and acceptability of proposed stormwater management measures. Erosion control aspects are reviewed by the Planning and Engineering Technician. The permit includes a financial guarantee that is held until all stormwater facilities are properly installed and certified by an engineer. A long-term maintenance agreement is also required prior to release of the financial guarantee. The city has 15 days to review applications. If deficiencies are found during the review process, the city notifies the applicant via email with comments. Once application requirements are met, the permit is issued by the city’s Senior Engineer. Application fees depend on the size of the project and cost $1000 + $100/additional acre. Page 6 Once a project is permitted, the permittee is required to install and implement Best Management practices (BMP’s) prior to land disturbing activity. The Planning and Engineering Technician oversees construction sites and meets the inspection frequencies requirements outlined in the MS4 General Permit. All active sites are mapped and assigned for inspections though Survey 123 and Fields Map app. Once an inspection is complete, they are sent to the permittee or contractor and then saved to a folder online. When issues are found, an inspection report is sent along with a re-inspection date. In most instances, a 24-hour timeline is given for repairs to be made, depending on the weather. Inspections continue until 70% stabilization is achieved, at which time, permits are terminated. When a site is out of compliance, the city has the authority to issue warnings, NOVs, citations, and bill permittees for costs incurred by the city to repair sites. The Planning and Engineering Technician has the authority to implement enforcement, including the issuance of citations. Citations can be issued daily at a rate of $187/day and up to $1000/day maximum. POST-CONSTRUCTION STORM WATER MANAGEMENT – MS4 GP SECTION 2.5 The city’s post-construction storm water management program is overseen by the engineering department. The city’s post-construction ordinance is Chapter 12.16 Stormwater Management of the local municipal code. The ordinance largely mimics NR151 performance standards and exceeds some requirements including reduction of TSS by 85% for new development (compared to the department’s requirement of 80%). The ordinance also appears to have some inconsistencies with NR151 performance standards. For example, it does not appear that the ordinance includes standards equivalent to the protective area performance standards of NR 151.125 or NR 151.245 as required by the permit. It should be noted the City is currently working on amending its ordinance (Ch.17.24-Regulations for the protection of wetlands within the shoreland) to apply to all wetlands in the City. The tentative schedule is to consider the proposed amendment at planning commission in March, and City Council in March and April of 2026. POLLUTION PREVENTION– MS4 GP SECTION 2.6 The city’s Pollution Prevention Program is overseen by the Public Works Manager. The municipal public works facility, yard waste site, and privately owned facilities are inspected the second Wednesday of each month by the Public Works Supervisor. Inspections forms are filled out, scanned, and saved online in the city’s Stormwater Pond GIS layer. A Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan for the Municipal Yard and Yard Waste Facility was updated in November 2025 to include snow disposal locations, disposal of material from the facilities pond, street sweeping disposal, and city pit. The city’s Public Works department is responsible for BMP inspection and maintenance, street sweeping, public works yard operations, and winter road maintenance. Leaf Collection Leaves are swept five days a week starting in mid-September (or when leaves begin to fall) until the weather turns cold (approximately 60 days). Each Public Works employee with a designated snowplow route also sweeps their route and leaves are brought to the yard waste site. The city does not offer yard leaf collection pick-up for residents, but residents are encouraged to drop-off leaves at the yard waste site. Street Sweeping A Tymco 500 a regenerative air street sweeper is used throughout the city in the Spring (weather dependent) and sweeping also coincides with Fall leaf collection. Sweepings are taken to the Public Works facility yard and are Page 7 hauled to Waste Management Hazarded Waste facility in Eagan, MN. There is a designated area at the Public Works facility where sweepers are washed out. Two inlets are located in the street sweeping washout area. The larger of the two is cleaned out up to six times per year or on an as needed basis and material removed is taken to by Waste Management to their landfill in Burnsville, MN. Overflow from the sump drain leads to a smaller inlet, which drains into the facilities pond in the northwest corner of the property. Sweepings are tracked and tonnage is updated on the city’s website. Catch Basin Cleaning A majority of the catch basins are cleaned annually during the street seeping process to prevent any maintenance issues. If a catch basin is clogged, the city uses a vac unit to clean it out and materials are stored at the Public Works facility along with the street sweeping materials. Yard Waste Site The city’s yard waste site is located at 901 West Locust Street and is open April through November (weather dependent) on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays with set hours. During this time, the public can drop-off leaves, grass clippings, tree debris, and Christmas tree collection in January. Electronic recycling items, such as old phones, printers, computers, TV screens, and monitors are also accepted and placed in a watertight metal shipping container. A gate with a large overhang was recently installed to prevent illegal dumping and large industrial vehicles from entering the site. In December of each year, a custom grinding company is contracted to grind the materials on site. A majority of the material is hauled to a burn plant, and a small amount of mulch is kept on site. A second grinding occurs in January after Christmas tree collection. Winter Road Maintenance The city maintains approximately 161 lane-miles primarily using salt. The city also pre-treats with brine, and beet-heat as a pre-wetter. No sand is used. The city has found that prewetting the salt provides less scatter loss. Treated salt is used on sidewalks. However, they are phasing out the use of treated salt. Once phased out, they plan on buying a small, bagged amount for sidewalks rather than keeping a larger supply at the Public Works facility. Five plow trucks are used, along with a one-ton truck equipped with a salt brine tank for pretreating. Plow trucks are calibrated at the beginning of the winter season and recalibrated as needed and there is a maximum salt limit per lane mile that trucks can use. Snow is disposed of in two field locations adjacent to the Waste Water Treatment Plant (WWTP) and debris is removed once the snow has melted in the spring by St. Croix County Trustees. Snow disposal locations are listed on the storm sewer system map. Turf Management The city manages 18 city parks greater than 5 acres in size. There is no ordinance regarding fertilizer management. However, the city does not typically use granular fertilizer but does use a broad leaf herbicide. Nutrients are applied in the spring (weather dependent) but this does not occur every year. Chemicals are stored in a locked storage building in Larson Park and a small supply of weed killer (two, one-gallon jugs) is stored at the Public Works facility. Currently, the City does not conduct soil testing. It was noted if the City should need to establish turf area of five acres or greater at a park property in the future, soil testing will be conducted. Internal Staff & Education The city has a robust training program let by the Public Works Manager, Engineering Technician, and Safety Coordinator. Education is prioritized through frequent trainings such as: annual training of Public Works employees, training of new employees, IDDE prevention, reporting, and cleanup training, Wisconsin Saltwise trainings (with plans of hosting a Saltwise training in 2026), fertilizer/weed training, confined space, forklift, trenching/excavating/ CPR, basic first-aid, chemical usage, spills, trenching & excavating, chainsaw safety, and Page 8 urban forestry. Effectiveness is based on how staff implements things upon receiving training. The city maintains an internal training log that employees fill out at every training. Stormwater Quality Modeling MS4 GP Section 2.7 The department received the city’s pollutant load analysis and the modeled storm water management in 2007. The city’s modeling to meet the 20% TSS reduction requirement included street sweeping twice annually and twice weekly for the downtown area. The city states that they still perform this sweeping and track the weight of material collected. The 40% TSS requirement that is detailed in s. NR 151.25(2)(4), is no longer enforceable due to the provisions of state budget bill 2011 Wisconsin Act 32. It should be noted, however, that if storm water treatment best management practices were in place as of July 1, 2011, and provide treatment beyond the 20% TSS reduction requirement, those practices must continue to be maintained. Page 9 TABLE 1. OBSERVATIONS & REQUIRED ACTIONS SUMMARY Program & Permit Reference Observations (A – Required Action*, B – Recommended Action) *necessary to maintain compliance with referenced permit condition 2.5 Post-Construction Storm Water Management A.2 The ordinance or other regulatory mechanism shall establish or include new development and infill, and post-construction performance standards equivalent to those in ss. NR 151.122 through 151.126 and 151.242 through 151.246, Wis. Adm. Code per Section (2.5.1 (c)). Other Documentation: Program documents associated with the City of River Falls MS4 (Program procedures, ordinances, modeling, and annual reports provided by the City) are located in the Eau Claire DNR Service Center, 1300 W Clairemont Avenue, Eau Claire, WI. ORDINANCE NO. 2026 -___ AN ORDINANCE AMENDING TITLE 17 ZONING, CHAPTER 17.124 (REGULATIONS FOR THE PROTECTION OF WETLANDS WITHIN THE SHORELAND) THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RIVER FALLS DOES ORDAIN: Section 1. That Chapter 17.124 - Title be amended as follows: Chapter 17.124 – REGULATIONS FOR THE PROTECTION OF WETLANDS WITHIN THE SHORELAND Chapter Title to be amended as follows: Chapter 17.124 – REGULATIONS FOR THE PROTECTION OF WETLANDS AND SHORELAND Section 2. That Chapter 17.124.010.C.1.a. – Introductory provisions, General Provisions, Applicability be amended to cover all City wetlands and not just those near the river as follows: C. General Provisions. 1. Applicability. a. The use of wetlands and the alteration of wetlands within the City’s corporate limits shall be in full compliance with the terms of this Chapter and other applicable local, state, or federal regulations, including without limitation § 281.36, Wis. Stats., and Chapters NR 103 and NR 151, Wis. Adm. Code , and as may be amended from time to time. Section 3. That Chapter 17.124.020 Definitions be amended to add the definition of Protective Area as follows: “Protective Area” means an area of land that commences at the top of the channel of lakes, streams and rivers, or at the delineated boundary of wetlands, and that is the greatest of the following widths, as measured horizontally from the top of the channel or delineated wetland boundary to the closest impervious surface. However, in this section, “protective area” does not include any area of land adjacent to any stream enclosed within a pipe or culvert, so that runoff cannot enter the enclosure at this location. (a) For outstanding resource waters and exceptional resource waters, 75 feet. ATTACHMENT B (b) For perennial and intermittent streams identified on a U.S. geological survey 7.5- minute series topographic map, or a county soil survey map, whichever is more current, 50 feet. (c) For lakes, 50 feet. (d) For wetlands not subject to par. (e) or (f), 50 feet. (e) For highly susceptible wetlands, 75 feet. Highly susceptible wetlands include the following types: calcareous fens, sedge meadows, open and coniferous bogs, low prairies, coniferous swamps, lowland hardwood swamps, and ephemeral ponds. (f) For less susceptible wetlands, 10 percent of the average wetland width, but no less than 10 feet nor more than 30 feet. Less susceptible wetlands include: degraded wetlands dominated by invasive species such as reed canary grass; cultivated hydric soils; and any gravel pits, or dredged material or fill material disposal sites that take on the attributes of a wetland. (g) In pars. (d) to (f), determinations of the extent of the protective area adjacent to wetlands shall be made on the basis of the sensitivity and runoff susceptibility of the wetland in accordance with the standards and criteria in s. NR 103.03. (h) Wetland boundary delineation shall be made in accordance with s. NR 103.08 (1m). This paragraph does not apply to wetlands that have been completely filled in compliance with all applicable state and federal regulations. The protective area for wetlands that have been partially filled in compliance with all applicable state and federal regulations shall be measured from the wetland boundary delineation after fill has been placed. Where there is a legally authorized wetland fill, the protective area standard need not be met in that location. (i) For concentrated flow channels with drainage areas greater than 130 acres, 10 feet. (j) Notwithstanding pars. (a) to (i ), the greatest protective area width shall apply where rivers, streams, lakes, and wetlands are contiguous. A stream or lake is not eligible for a lower protective area width even if contiguous to a less susceptible wetland. Section 4. That Chapter 17.124.030 Shoreland-wetland zoning district be amended to include all City wetlands as follows: B. District Boundaries. 1. The shoreland-wetland zoning district includes all wetlands that are shown on the most recent version of the Wisconsin wetland inventory, have a valid DNR-approved delineation, or are: Section 5. That Chapter 17.124.030 Shoreland-wetland zoning district be amended to add requirements for Protective Areas as follows: E. 3. Requirements for Protective Areas. a. No impervious surface including transportation facilities as defined in Wis. Admin. Code § NR 151.002 (48) may be constructed within a protective area unless the transportation facility authority determines, in consultation with the department of natural resources, that there is no practical alternative. If there is no practical alternative to locating an impervious surface or transportation facility within a protective area, the impervious surface or transportation facility may be constructed in the protective area only to the extent the transportation facility authority, in consultation with the department of natural resources, determines is reasonably necessary. The transportation facility authority shall state in the design plan prepared pursuant to s. NR 151.241 (3), why it is necessary to construct the impervious surface or transportation facility within a protective area. b. Where land disturbing construction activity occurs within a protective area, adequate sod or self-sustaining vegetative cover of 70 percent or greater shall be established and maintained where no impervious surface is present. The adequate sod or self -sustaining vegetative cover shall be sufficient to provide for bank stability, maintenance of fish habitat, and filtering of pollutants from upslope overland flow areas under sheet flow conditions. Non-vegetative materials, such as rock riprap, may be employed on the bank as necessary to prevent erosion such as on steep slopes or where high velocity flows occur. Note: It is recommended that seeding of non -invasive vegetative cover be used in the protective areas. Some invasive plants are listed in Ch. NR 40. Vegetation that is flood and drought tolerant and can provide long-term bank stability because of an extensive root system is preferable. Vegetative cover may be measured using the line transect method described in the University of Wisconsin exte nsion publication number A3533, titled “Estimating Residue Using the Line Transect Method”. c. Best management practices such as filter strips, swales, or wet detention ponds, that are designed to control pollutants from non-point sources, may be located in the protective area. Note: Other laws, such as Ch. 30, Wis. Stats., and Chs. NR 103, 115, 116, and 117, Wis. Admin. Code, and as may be amended from time to time, and their associated review and approval processes may apply in the protective area. d. Exemptions. This section does not apply to any of the following: i. Structures that cross or access surface waters such as boat landings, bridges, and culverts. ii. Transportation facilities from which the runoff does not enter the surface water, including wetlands, without first being treated by a BMP to meet the requirements of ss. NR 151.242 to 151.243, except to the extent that vegetative ground cover is necessary to maintain bank stability. Note: A vegetated protective area to filter runoff pollutants from transportation facilities described in par. ( iii) is not necessary since the runoff at that location is treated prior to entering the surface water. Other practices necessary to meet the requirements of this section, such as a swale or pond, will need to be designed and implemented to reduce runoff pollutants prior to runoff entering a surface water of the state. The requirements of Ch. NR 103 still apply and should be considered before runoff is diverted to or from a wetland. Section 6. Effective date. This ordinance amendment shall take effect from and after its date of publication as provided by law. FOR THE CITY OF RIVER FALLS Alison Page, Mayor ATTEST: Amy White, City Clerk Adopted: ____________ Published: ____________ MEMORANDUM TO: Mayor Page and Plan Commission FROM: Gordon Young, Chief of Police DATE: May 26, 2026 TITLE: ORDINANCE CREATING CHAPTER 10.21 REGULATING ELECTRIC BICYCLES AND ELECTRIC SCOOTERS RECOMMENDED ACTION Forward Ordinance 2026-## creating Chapter 10.21 of the Municipal Code to regulate the use of electric bicycles and electric scooters within the City of River Falls to City Council with a favorable recommendation. BACKGROUND The City of River Falls has received calls and complaints regarding the operation of electric bicycles (e-bikes) and electric scooters in areas shared with pedestrians and motor vehicles, including city streets, sidewalks, and multi-use/shared bike paths. Electric bicycles and electric scooters differ from traditional bicycles in speed, weight, and method of propulsion. These devices are capable of operating at higher speeds and are often used in locations not designed for their operation. At present, the Municipal Code does not contain comprehensive, locally adopted regulations specific to electric bicycles and electric scooters. The proposed ordinance is intended to establish a clear local framework governing their use in order to protect public safety for operators, pedestrians, and the motoring public. DISCUSSION Current Situation The Police Department has received complaints regarding young children operating powered electric bicycles and scooters in public spaces. In many cases, these devices are not equipped or designed to safely operate in lanes of traffic, nor are the operators adequately prepared to navigate roadway conditions. Operation of these devices under such circumstances presents a life -safety concern for the operators as well as for pedestrians, bicyclists, and the motoring public. Proposed Ordinance The proposed ordinance creates Chapter 10.21 of the Municipal Code to regulate electric bicycles and electric scooters. Key provisions include: 3 2 • Defining electric bicycles by class and distinguishing them from electric scooters; • Establishing minimum age and licensing requirements for operators; • Limiting where electric bicycles and electric scooters may be operated, including restrictions on sidewalks; • Requiring compliance with applicable state traffic laws and local ordinances; • Establishing equipment and lighting requirements; and • Assigning responsibility to parents or guardians who knowingly permit violations by minors. These provisions are intended to provide clarity for residents, operators, and enforcement while addressing safety concerns associated with the increased use of powered electric devices. SUMMARY This ordinance establishes reasonable and clearly defined rules to address safety concerns, protect young users, and reduce risks to pedestrians and the motoring public. It is recommended that the Plan Commission forward Ordinance 2026-## creating Chapter 10.21 of the Municipal Code to regulate electric bicycles and electric scooters to City Council with a favorable recommendation. ORDINANCE NO. 2026 -___ AN ORDINANCE CREATING CHAPTER 10.21 OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO ELECTRIC BICYCLES AND ELECTRIC SCOOTERS THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RIVER FALLS DOES ORDAIN: Section 1. That Chapter 10.21 titled “Regulating Electric Bicycles and Electric Scooters,” of the City of River Falls Municipal Code is hereby created to read as follows: “10.21 Regulating Electric Bicycles and Electric Scooters. Sections 10.21.010 Definitions. As used in this chapter, the following terms shall have the meaning indicated: Bike Paths are defined as any impervious surface completely separated from the roadway that are eight feet wide or greater and constructed for pedestrian, bicycle, or other non - automotive means of transportation. Bike Paths may also be referred to as Multi-Use Paths or Shared Use Paths. Electric Bicycle means a bicycle that is equipped with fully operative pedals for propulsion by human power and an electric motor of 750 watts or less and that meets the requirements of any of the following classifications: A. Class 1 Electric Bicycle means an electric bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour. B. Class 2 Electric Bicycle means an electric bicycle that may be powered solely by the motor and is not capable of providing assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour. C. Class 3 Electric Bicycle means an electric bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 28 miles per hour. Electric scooter means a device weighing less than 100 pounds that has handlebars and an electric motor, is powered solely by the electric motor and human power, and has a maximum speed of not more than 20 miles per hour on a paved level surface when powered solely by the electric motor. “Electric scooter” does not include an electric personal assistive mobility device, motorcycle, motor bicycle, electric bicycle, or moped. Page 2 Sidewalks are defined as any impervious portion of a roadway between the curb line or lateral lines of a roadway and adjacent property lines constructed for pedestrian use and are less than eight feet in width. 10.21.020 Permitted users of electric bicycles and electric scooters. Operators of a Class 3 electric bicycle on City roadways, sidewalks, or bike paths must be 16 years of age or older. No person less than 12 years of age shall operate an electric scooter on City roadways , sidewalks, or bike paths except that persons 8 through 11 years of age may do so during daylight hours if accompanied by an adult capable of remaining close enough to ensure the safe operation of the scooter by such child, such as by walking or running alongside, using their own e lectric scooter or bicycle, or engaging in a similar activity. This provision is intended to permit the usage of electric scooters by families. 10.21.030 Rules of the Road. Subject to the provisions of this Chapter 10.21 , the provisions of Chs. 346 and 347, Wis. Stats., and applicable City ordinances , shall govern the operation of electric bicycles and electric scooters, where appropriate. 10.21.040 Use of electric bicycles and electric scooters; Where prohibited. Only Class 1 E lectric Bicycles may be used on sidewalks that allow bicycle use on the same terms and conditions (e.g., age restrictions), provided they are being operated without motor assistance and using only human power. Class 2 Electric Bicycles and Class 3 Electric Bicycles are prohibited from use on all sidewalks in the City. Electric scooters may be used on sidewalks or bike paths that allow bicycle use on the same terms and conditions (e.g., age restrictions). Electric scooters are prohibited from use on any roadway having a speed limit of more than 25 miles per hour. A map showing certain sidewalks and bike paths as of the date of adoption of this Chapter 10.21 is attached hereto as Exhibit A. 10.21.050 Equipment Regulations. Every person using electric scooters between one-half hour after sunset and one-half hour before sunrise shall have the scooter equipped with a lamp firmly attached to the front of such electric scooter exhibiting a white light to the front, and with a ref lector or a lamp mounted on the rear of the vehicle visible at a distance of 500 feet. The reflector shall not be less than one and a half to two inches for rectangular models or three inches in diameter for round models. 10.21.060 Riding electric bicycles and electric scooters on roadway. Every person operating an electric bicycle or electric scooter upon a roadway shall ride as near to the right side of the roadway as practicable, exercising due care when passing a Page 3 standing vehicle or one proceeding in the same direction. Persons riding electric bicycles or electric scooters upon a roadway shall ride single file. 10.21.070 Responsibility of parent or guardian for violation. No parent or guardian of any child shall authorize or knowingly permit such child to violate any of the provisions of this chapter 10.21. 10.21.080 Penalty. Any person violating the provisions of this chapter 10.21 shall be subject to the provisions of chapter 1.20 of this municipal code.” Section 2. Severability. The provisions of this ordinance shall be deemed severable and it is expressly declared that the City of River Falls would have passed the other provisions of this ordinance irrespective of whether or not one or more provisions may be decla red invalid. If any provision of this ordinance or the application to any person or circumstances is held invalid, the remainder of the ordinance and the application of such provisions to other person’s circumstances shall not be deemed affected. Section 3. Effective date. This Ordinance shall take effect from and after its date of publication as provided by law. FOR THE CITY OF RIVER FALLS Alison Page, Mayor ATTEST: Amy White, City Clerk Adopted: ____________ Published: ____________ EXHIBIT A Community Development Department: May 2026 Page 1 of 3 Introduction This report is provided monthly to update the Plan Commission, Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, and other interested parties on Community Development efforts of the past month as it relates to the City’s Strategic Initiatives and the Department work plan. 2026 Community Development Major Projects *Denotes a Council Strategic Initiative CONNECTED COMMUNITY Kinnickinnic River Corridor Plan Phase I * o USACE Feasibility Study is approved! Safe Streets Action Plan* o The Safe Streets for All Safety Action Plan was adopted by Council on May 12th. Glen Park Phase II* o Staff is working to determine next steps for implementing Phase 2 of the Glen Park Master Plan. Locust Street design o Preliminary roadway design is complete. Staff is preparing a recommendation to proceed with the project, including proposed sources and uses based on the engineering estimate. Mapping o Map of available sites for development o Map of current development in River Falls ECONOMIC VITALITY Downtown Project* o The Safe Streets for All Implementation Grant application has been submitted for a downtown reconstruction project. Continued Infill in Corporate Parks/Innovation Center Expansion* o Work with the Economic Development Administration (EDA) continues on the grant to expand the Innovation Center. o One April 28th the City Council approved the sale of a portion of Lot B in the Whitetail Ridge Corporate Park. Ensure sustained (re)development of the City from the prospect stage through construction o Brookgreen – Occupancy granted for Buildings 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and Clubhouse. Buildings 7-10 are under construction. o Oak Hill – 1 permit issued, 2 COs issued. o Construction for the Sycamore Two senior housing and 4 duplexes project has begun. o The Preserve – 0 permits issued, 1 CO issued o Thompson Heights – 2 permits issued, 0 COs issued o Building Permit was issued for the Valley View 50-unit affordable housing project o The Wildflower Meadows subdivision on Powell Avenue is under construction. Water and Sewer utilities are currently being installed, including a closure of Powell Avenue through June 1st o Council approved the rezoning of a parcel in the Sterling Ponds Corporate Park to facilitate development of an industrial building. An application for site plan review has also been approved for the project o A site plan application has been approved for an 86,108 square foot industrial building in the Sterling Ponds Corporate Park on the parcel east of the St. Croix Valley Business Innovation Center. The site will be home to J -Mark Industrial who specializes in manufacturing, assembly, and plastic injection molding o A site plan application has been approved for a new facility for Our Neighbor’s Place at 122 W. Johnson Street. Community Development Department: May 2026 Page 2 of 3 o An annexation petition submitted by the Delbert and Elaine Johnson trusts for approximately 55 acres south of CTH M at 1060th Street had a first reading at Council on May 26, 2026. o The City commissioned an updated Housing Needs Analysis to follow up on studies completed in 2018 and 2022. The 2026 study was presented to Council on May 26, 2026. FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY Examine Impact Fees* o Finance Dept is working with a consultant to examine impact fees for development Economic Development o The Economic Development Manager is a member of RFEDC, WEDA, River Falls Chamber, and St. Croix Valley Innovation Center Management Committee. QUALITY MUNICIPAL SERVICES Library Remodel* o Phase II of the library remodel is substantially complete. Phase III, which is mostly work in the lower level is ongoing and expected to be finalized in May. The total project came in under the awarded grant amount, and additional planned work is out for bid that includes technology, furniture, atrium, and glass walls in the basement. Fire Station Remodel* o Fire Station demolition began the week of February 9th and is ongoing. Vertical pre-cast concrete walls are up and there will continue to be short term roadway closures on Second Street and Elm Street. Hoffman Basin Study o The consultant provided a final copy of the Hoffman Basin Study. Division Street crosswalks o The Safe Streets for All Action Plan includes a concept plan for an improved pedestrian crossing at East Division and Wasson Lane. WIDNR Urban Non-Point Source Pollution grant o MSA Professional Services is completing a City-wide phosphorus model to document compliance with our stormwater MS4 Permit. Stewardship of Public Infrastructure o The 2026 Mill and Overlay project was awarded to Lepke Trucking and Excavating. Work will occur starting in July and will occur on Paulson Road. City staff prepared a grant application and anticipates receiving a Wisconsin Local Roads Improvement Grant for $50,000 to support this project. Conservation and Parks Division o Park and Recreation Advisory Board approved the master plan for pollinator demonstration gardens at DeSanctis Park. The plan creates 10 unique gardens located around the park’s stormwater pond: the first four gardens will be installed in 2026. o Staff has been collaborating with the National Park Service RTCA team to create a branding strategy for the Kinni Corridor project. The team have branded the corridor and associated projects as “The Kinni Riverway” and have selected a logo to associate with the projects. o The City has executed a contract with The Prairie Enthusiasts to continue invasive species BUILDING PERMITS ISSUED Permit Type MAY YTD Permit Value MAY Permit Value YTD Building Permits 23 100 $10,663,525 $19,814,095 New Home Permits 4 33 $1,035,000 $8,556,000 Community Development Department: May 2026 Page 3 of 3 management and habitat restoration within River Hills Park. The contract is for 2027-2028. The Community Development Department oversees the Plan Commission, Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, Business Improvement District Board , Historic Preservation Commission , City Board of Appeals , Downtown Design Review Committee , Extraterritorial Zoning Committee (ETZ), Extra Territorial Board of Appeals, and River Falls Economic Development Corporation.