HomeMy Public PortalAboutChapter 3 Community Background-12-22-2016Chapter 3: COMMUNITY BACKGROUND
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Introduction
Medina was a part of the “Big Woods,” a
vast region of hardwood forest, broken only by lakes, marshes, and streams. Its Dakota people lived on game, fish, berries, wild rice, and maple sugar and traded with other bands in
the region.
In 1853, the Traverse de Sioux Treaty opened the region to European settlers, who were attracted to the area by the vast stands of timber and the availability of land for
farming.
The first European settlers arrived in Medina in 1855. On April 10, 1858, County Commissioners gave the City an official designation as “Hamburg Township.” Local residents
preferred the name, “Medina,” after the Arabian holy city that had been in the news that year. On May 11, 1858, 37 residents met in the home of Valorius Chilson and voted unanimously
to change the name to Medina. Medina graduated from township status to become a village in 1955 and was incorporated as a city in 1974.
Medina’s early European settlers were chiefly
of German, Irish and French-Canadian descent and had names still common in Medina such as Scherer and Reiser; Mooney and Crowe; Hamel and Fortin. The first generations tended to group
according to their language ties and to help each other through the long hard winters.
Townships were divided into 36 sections, each consisting of a square mile. This meant that the
City of Excelsior extended beyond the north shore of Lake Minnetonka to Medina’s southern border. Excelsior’s northern residents tolerated this inconvenience until 1868, when Excelsior’s
north shore residents voted to become a part of Medina. This expanded Medina to over 50 square miles.
In 1889, George A. Brackett led a successful drive to carve the City of Orono
out of the southern 11 sections of Medina. Later, the City also ceded away land to Loretto, when Loretto was incorporated in 1940. Loretto had been platted since 1886, when the Minneapolis
& St. Paul and Sault St. Marie railroad came through.
The Hamel area of Medina was platted as early as 1879, but its efforts to incorporate failed, in part, because of the complication
of straddling the borders of both Medina and Plymouth. The town might have been called Lenz after Leander Lenzen, who built a mill in Elm Creek and set up a post office in the name
of Lenz in 1861. But when the Lange Hamel family gave land to the railroad for the train depot in 1884 they asked that the area be called “Hamel,” and the name took root. To this day,
this area of the City is still referred to as Hamel.
Built on the road from Minneapolis to Rockford, Hamel was a busy town. At the beginning of the 20th century, Hamel boasted a school,
two hotels, the Church of St. Anne’s, a hall for the Ancient Order of United Workman and numerous stores. The town decreased to its present size after Highway 55 bypassed Hamel in the
1950s.
Population and Household Trends
Table 3-A below shows historical and projected population and household size data for the City of Medina. The 1990, 2000, and 2010 population and household
data is from the U.S. Census. The 2014 population and household estimates and the 2020-2040 population and household projections are from the Metropolitan Council’s 2040 Regional Development
Framework. The Metropolitan Council estimated Medina’s population to be 5,831, with 1,961 households in 2014. The Metropolitan Council projects that the average household size will
to continue to decline regionally over the next 20 years due to an increase in the number of seniors and lifestyle changes.
Table 3-A Metropolitan Council Forecasts
Growth and Forecast
Populati
on
Households
Employment
1990*
3,069
1,007
2,155
2000*
4,005
1,309
2,928
2010*
4,892
1,702
3,351
2015**
5,967
2,111
4,823
2020***
6,600
2,300
4,980
2030***
7,700
2,840
5,300
2040***
8,900
3,400
5,500
*Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Census 1990-2010
**Source: Metropolitan Council Estimates
***Source: Metropolitan Council Projections
The
City experienced relatively constant growth up to the 1990s before more rapid growth occurred in the last 15 years. Population growth is expected to continue, albeit at a slightly slower
pace, as areas within the City guided for urban residential densities are developed. The Metropolitan Council forecasts the City will have a population of 6,600 in 2020, 7,700 in 2030
and 8,900 in 2040. This corresponds to a 35% increase from 2010 to 2020, and a 16% increase for the next two 10-year periods.
Table 3-B below was developed based on the Guide Plan
developed as a part of this Plan. This table demonstrates the City’s projections for future growth in the community by planned sewer allocation:
Table 3-B Sewer Allocation Forecasts
Forecast
Year
Forecast Component
Population
Households
Employment
2010
MCES Sewered
2,965
1,032
3,146
2010
Unsewered
1,927
670
205
2020
MCES
Sewered
4,500
1,570
4,780
2020
Unsewered
2,100
730
200
2030
MCES Sewered
5660
2,090
5,100
2030
Unsewered
2,040
750
200
2040
MCES Sewered
6,880
2,630
5,300
2040
Unse
wered
2,020
770
200
Source: Metropolitan Council System Statement; Adjusted by City of Medina per existing conditions and proposed Guide Plan
Residential Development Activity
Table 3-C below shows the residential development activity in Medina from 2010 to 2015. During this period, the City issued building permits for a total
of 379 detached single family homes and 67 townhomes units.
Table 3-C
Medina Residential Building Permits 2010-2015
Year
New Single-Family Dwelling Units
Total Valuation
New
Townhome Dwelling Units
Total Valuation
2010
7
$3,422,331
0
$0
2011
15
$9,763,948
0
$0
2012
68
$28,248,224
0
$0
2013
144
$59,476,122
19
$4,530,000
2014
82
$35,179
,120
22
$4,614,628
2015
63
$27,933,345
26
$4,412,000
TOTAL
379
$164,023,090
67
$13,556,628
Source: City of Medina, 2016
Economic Overview
The economic health
of a community contributes to a high standard of living and a desirable place to live. Medina has a strong economy that is likely to improve as population increases. The City has experienced
considerable growth in its economic base and the addition of diverse employment opportunities since the last planning cycle. Table 3-D below shows that employment growth in the City
of Medina increased 14.4% from 2000 to 2010. The Metropolitan Council’s projections indicate an increase in employment of 47.2% between 2010 and 2020. The availability of commercial
and general business land along the TH 55 corridor, adequate transportation and utility infrastructure and the location of the City within the metropolitan area make Medina attractive
to businesses.
Table 3-D
City of Medina Employment Growth and Forecasts
Year
Number
Percent Increase
1990*
2,155
2000*
2,928
35.9%
2010*
3,351
14.4%
2014**
4,823
43.9%
2020***
4,980
3.3%
2030***
5,300
6.4%
2040***
5,500
3.8%
*Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Census 1990-2010
**Source: Metropolitan Council Estimates/P
***Source: Metropolitan
Council Projections
Employers and Employees
The City has approximately 286 employers that provide a range of industry and job opportunities. The following table represents the number of establishments
per industry in Medina.
Table 3-E
Number of Establishments in Medina by Industry
Industry Description
Number of Establishments
Percentage
Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing
& Hunting
4
1.4%
Construction
37
12.9%
Manufacturing
19
6.6%
Wholesale Trade
16
5.6%
Retail Trade
32
11.2%
Transportation & Warehousing
8
2.8%
Information
2
0.7%
Fi
nance & Insurance
28
9.8%
Real Estate, Rental & Leasing
9
3.1%
Professional, Scientific & Tech Services
33
11.5%
Management of Companies & Enterprises
1
0.3%
Administrative
& Support & Waste Management & Remediation
14
4.9%
Educational Services
7
2.4%
Health Care & Social Assistance
5
1.7%
Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
13
4.5%
Accommodation
& Food Services
16
5.6%
Other Services (except Public Administration)
26
9.1%
Public Administration
4
1.4%
Unclassified Establishments
12
4.2%
Total
286
99.7%
Source:
Infogroup 2015
According to 2014 ACS estimates, 60.4% of the total population over the age of 16 in Medina was employed. The following table demonstrates the number of employees per industry.
Table
3-F
Number of Employees by Industry in Medina
Industry
Number of Employees
Percentage
Administrative and Waste Services
251
6%
All Other Industries
2,628
58%
Construction
200
4%
Finance and Insurance
68
1%
Manufacturing
587
13%
Public Administration
27
1%
Real Estate and Rental and Leasing
67
1%
Wholesale Trade
706
16%
Total Employees
4,534
S
ource: Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (DEED) 2015 Second Quarter Data
Major Employers
Employers within the City provide a wide range of potential employment options. The
following table identifies the major employers in the City along with their respective number of employees working within the City:
Table 3-G
Largest Medina Employers
Top Employer’s
Number
of Employees
Polaris Industries
450
Loram Maintenance of Way, Inc.
411
Open Systems International
340
Rockler Companies
250
Hennepin County Public Works
212
Tolomatic,
Inc.
210
Graphic Packaging (formerly Walter G. Anderson, Inc.)
185
Medina Golf & Country Club
180
Target
150
Adam’s Pest Control
88
Intercomp Co.
85
Maxxon Corporation
46
Twinco/Romax Automotive
36
Source: Reported by local businesses when contacted by staff
The table below shows that from 2010 through 2015, there was approximately $164,023,090 of commercial development in the City. This growth occurred from the expansion of existing businesses
as well as the entry of new employers such as Open Systems International, Inc.
Table 3-H
Medina Commercial Building Permits
Year
New Commercial Building Permits
Total Valuation
2010
7
$
3,422,331
2011
15
$9,763,948
2012
68
$28,248,224
2013
144
$59,476,122
2014
82
$35,179,120
2015
63
$27,933,345
Total
379
$164,023,090
Source: City of
Medina, 2016
Economic Development Initiatives
The City created a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District (TIF District 1-9) in 2004 to provide public improvement incentives for the
redevelopment of properties within and around the Uptown Hamel area. The TIF district consists of more than 60 parcels on both sides of TH 55 near its intersection with Sioux Drive/CR
101. TIF funds have been used to fund public improvements to entice development north and south of TH 55 in the Uptown Hamel area, including storm water infrastructure in Uptown Hamel.
Through 2007, redevelopment in Uptown Hamel has been slow.
Investment Framework
To maintain a strong tax base, Medina seeks to attract commercial and business developments along
TH 55. Commercial development is a significant part of Medina's tax base plan. Map 3-1 illustrates the amount of taxes paid by residential and commercial properties in the City.
Demographics
This demographic data is primarily sourced from the U.S. Census Bureau. The 2010 U.S. Census typically provides the most current demographic information available, but
is somewhat out of date. The data remains relevant because it suggests trends of development and population characteristics. Where more up-to-date information is available, regardless
of source, that information is included as a point of reference.
Household Income
The following table describes the annual household income levels of current residents in Medina in
the year 2013. Fifteen percent of the City population had annual income of less than $50,000, 27.7%between $50,000 and $100,000, and 57.4% over $100,000.
Table 3-I
City of Medina
Household Income
Income
Households
Percentage
Less than $10,000
21
1.3%
$10,000 to $24,999
71
4.4%
$25,000 to $49,999
150
9.3%
$50,000 to $74,999
189
11.7%
$75,000
to $99,999
260
16.0%
$100,000 to $149,999
237
14.6%
$150,000 to $199,999
241
14.9%
$200,000 or more
452
27.9%
Source: U.S Census Bureau, American Community Survey
2009-2013
The following table indicates that the average household income in Medina is high relative to both the Hennepin County and the Minnesota statewide average. The
2013 median household income in Medina was $127,039, almost twice the median County household income. The mean household income in Medina is $234,041, which was 261% of the mean County
household income and more than three times the statewide mean household income. The contrast between the mean and the median household income levels in Medina is due to the high numbers
of Medina households with incomes that exceed $200,000 per year.
Table 3-J
Median and Mean Household Income (2013)
Income
Medina
Hennepin County
Percentage of County
State of
MN
Percentage of State
Median household income (dollars)
$127,039
$64,403
197.3%
$59,836
212.3%
Mean household income (dollars)
$234,041
$89,707
260.9%
$77,204
303.1%
Source:
U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2009-2013
Age
The table below shows that, in 2010, 32.7% of the population was 19 years old or younger, 20.7% of the population was between 20 and 44 years old, 34.4% of the population was between
45 and 64 years old and 12.2% of the population was 65 years or older. Residents of the City of Medina were almost half male and half female.
Table 3-K
Age of Medina Residents
Age of Residents
Number of Residents
Percentage
Under 5 years
231
4.7%
5 to 9 years
405
8.3%
10 to 14 years
536
11.0%
15 to 19 years
426
8.7%
20 to 24 years
132
2.7%
25 to 34 years
225
4.6%
35 to 44 years
656
13.4%
45 to 54 years
1,039
21.3%
55 to 64 years
645
13.1%
65 years and over
597
12.2%
Median Age (years)
43.1
Total
Population
4,892
100.0%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Census 2010
Chart 3-A
/
Comparing the demographics in 2000 to 2010, it is evident that there has been a significant demographic shift in Medina toward older age categories. The proportion of the population
between the ages of 25 and 44 has dropped substantially; meanwhile, population ages 45 and older in Medina has grown by more than 12%. When planning future community facilities and housing
options in the City, apparent age trends must be considered. As the population continues to age the demand for senior lifestyle housing and activities within the City will increase.
School
Enrollment
In 2014, 1,646 residents in the City of Medina were enrolled in school. Of these residents 13.7% were enrolled in preschool or kindergarten, 47.4% were enrolled in elementary
school, 26.4% were enrolled in high school and 12.5% are enrolled in college or graduate school.
Table 3-L
City of Medina School Enrollment (2014)
School Enrollment
Number of
Students
Percentage
Nursery school, preschool
117
7.1%
Kindergarten
108
6.6%
Elementary School (grades 1-8)
781
47.4%
High School (grades 9-12)
434
26.4%
College
or Graduate School
206
12.5%
Total Population Enrolled in School
1,646
100.0%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2014
Property within the City is located
within one of four school districts. Map 3-6 displays the school district boundaries within the City and locations of school buildings which currently serve Medina residents. Over
60% of the households in the City are located within the Wayzata School District (ISD #284) and approximately 35% of households are located within the Orono School District (IDS #278).
Over 72% of projected household growth is anticipated to be within the Wayzata School District.
Table 3-M
City of Medina School Districts
School District
Approximate Households (2016)
Projected
Additional Households (2017-2040)
Wayzata – ISD 284
1,349
697
Orono – ISD 278
770
232
Delano – ISD 879
59
5
Rockford – ISD 883
20
98
Total
2,198
1,032
Level of Educational Attainment
In 2013, 98.9% of the adult population had graduated from high school and 59% of the population had completed a bachelor’s degree or higher level of education.
Table 3-N
Medina Adult Resident Level of Educational Attainment (2010)
Level of Educational Attainment
Number of Residents
Percentage
No High School Diploma
35
1.1%
High
School Graduate (includes equivalency)
511
15.7%
Some College, No Degree
519
15.9%
Associate Degree
265
8.1%
Bachelor's Degree
1405
43.1%
Graduate or Professional
Degree
526
16.1%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 2010-2014 Estimates
Race
The table below illustrates that, in 2010, 93% of the population was white, 3.2% as Asian, 1.2%
was Hispanic or Latino, and 1% was Black or African American.
Table 3-O
City of Medina Ethnicity (2010)
Race
Number of Residents
Percentage
White
4,562
93.3
Black or
African American
47
1.0
American Indian and Alaska Native
4
0.1
Asian
156
3.2
Pacific Islander
2
0.0
Some other race
4
0.1
Two or more races
56
1.1
Hispanic
61
1.2
Total Population
4,892
100.0%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Census 2010
Household Demographics
The vast majority of households in Medina (81% in 2010) are family households, containing at least two members who are related. Single-person households made
up 15.6% of total households. The average household size was 2.87 and the average family was 3.23 persons.
Table 3-P
Household Demographics (2010)
Type of Household
Number of
Households
Percentage
Family Households
1386
81.4%
Family Households with own children under 18
692
40.7%
Married-couple family
1266
74.4%
Married-couple family households with own children under 18
626
36.8%
One householder, no spouse
120
7.1%
One householder,
no spouse households with own children under 18
66
3.9%
Non-family households
50
2.9%
Householder living alone
266
15.6%
Total Households
1,702
100
Average
household size
2.87
Average family size
3.23
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Census 2010
Marital Status
In 2014, 70% of Medina’s adult residents were married; 21.2%
were single and 8.7% were widowed or divorced. The percentage of married couples in the City of Medina is relatively high compared to communities in closer to proximity to either Minneapolis
or St. Paul.
Table 3-Q
Medina Resident Marital Status (2014)
Marital Status
Number of Residents
Percentage
Never married, single
877
22.1%
Now married, except separated
2,628
66.2%
Separated
44
1.1%
Widowed
202
5.1%
Divorced
218
5.5%
Total Population 15 Years and older
3,970
100.0%
Source: American Community Survey, 2010-2014 Estimates
Factors Influencing Development
Natural features within the City of Medina will substantially influence the feasibility of extending municipal services and where and when development
will occur. The City undertook an extensive open space and natural resources initiative as a part of previous planning efforts.
Lakes and Wetlands: Map 3-2 illustrates the Wetland
Locations throughout Medina and is based on Hennepin County wetland data records. Nearly 35 percent of the land in Medina is wet, with many lakes, creeks and wetlands. These natural
areas affect where and in what intensity development can occur within the City. Upland areas suitable for development need to be well planned to ensure that lakes, wildlife and wetlands
are not adversely impacted. The City completed a Functional Assessment of Wetlands (FAW) in November 2007, which was developed to provide guidelines for regulating and protecting these
wetlands, and a comprehensive inventory and assessment of existing wetland functions with the City. An overall wetland classification map was provided as part of the FAW and is referenced
at the end of this section as Map 3-2.A
Floodplains: Map 3-3 identifies the FEMA designated floodplains found in Medina. Minnehaha Creek, Elm Creek and Pioneer-Sarah Creek Watersheds
have floodplains that will limit development in Medina. Much of the floodplains cover the same area as wetlands. Limited portions of these floodplains may be used for development,
if criteria for building elevations, floodproofing and filling can be met as outlined in the City's Floodplain Ordinance.
Watershed District Boundaries: Map 3-4 identifies the
boundaries of the three Watershed District Organizations and boundaries within Medina. Although not visible as land scape features, these boundaries are significant because they define
the direction of surface water flow. The boundaries are commonly used as major parameters for development of sewer interceptor and trunk lines. Each of the watershed districts has
its own regulations for land development, and some require watershed board approval of water management plans for development proposals. The City has designated itself as the Local
Governmental Unit (LGU) responsible for reviewing development proposals affecting wetlands.
Woodlands: Preservation of woodlands is important aesthetically, ecologically and functionally.
Woodlands provide wildlife habitat, prevent soil erosion, absorb runoff, provide wind breaks, and define the patterns of streets and land use.
Soils: The United States Department
of Agriculture's Soil Survey and Soil Classifications are used to evaluate development proposals in Medina and to determine the capability of on site septic systems. Rural residential
lots are required to have sufficient soils suitable for a standard sewage disposal system as defined by Medina’s Sewage Treatment and Disposal System Code. A significant portion of
the rural residential area of Medina contains soils that are considered unsuitable for septic site development. General soil conditions, therefore, establish the intensity of unsewered
development. Map 3-5 generally identifies the areas where suitable soils are present in Medina.
Topography: Topography and steep slopes in the City will impact future and current developments. Map 3-5 identifies areas considered as “Steep Slopes” and “Steep Slopes with Grades
Greater than 18%.” Management and maintenance of steep slopes and other topographic challenges will be critical to future development and growth plans.
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