The Public Works Nerds

This week we start what will become a series of podcasts chronicling the journey of the City of Shakopee, MN through the APWA Accreditation process. Shakopee decided to take this on several months ago and a couple of months into the process at the time of this recording. This is a great conversation about why Shakopee decided to do this, how they found an internal champion and what surprises they've discovered so far. Joining us are guests Bill Egan (Public Works Director), Alex Jordan (City Engineer) and Barb Kraemer (Administrative Assistant). 

AI Generated Description:

Curious about what it takes to achieve APWA accreditation? Join us on this enlightening episode of the Public Works Nerds podcast as we sit down with the passionate team from the City of Shakopee, Minnesota. Hear firsthand from Public Works Director Bill Egan, City Engineer Alex Jordan, and Administrative Assistant Barb Kraemer, each sharing their unique journeys and roles within the city's public works department. From Bill's extensive experience to Alex's fresh perspective from Lakeville, and Barb's transition from Parks and Rec, you'll get a front-row seat to the dynamics that make Shakopee's team tick.

Discover the motivations driving Shakopee's pursuit of the prestigious APWA accreditation. Despite the rarity of such recognition in Minnesota, the team was inspired by an intriguing article and took strategic steps to gain internal support. We break down the APWA's accreditation chapters, exploring the collaborative efforts across various city departments and the anticipated timeline for completion. You'll hear about the significance of mission and vision statements, the role of parks maintenance, and the invaluable support from APWA community leaders that has propelled Shakopee's public works department forward.

Uncover the financial and operational considerations of the accreditation process, including the costs and long-term benefits that justify this investment. We delve into the extensive involvement required from multiple departments, with critical support from city administrator Bill Reynolds. Through specific examples like managing roadkill, we highlight the practical impact of updated policies. This episode emphasizes the importance of teamwork, professional growth, and industry recognition, offering insights and inspiration for public works professionals everywhere. Don't miss this engaging conversation that showcases the power of collaboration and dedication in public service!

Show Notes:
APWA Accreditation:
https://www.apwa.org/resources/accreditation/

Parks and Recreation Accreditation:
https://www.nrpa.org/certification/accreditation/CAPRA/

I was planning on putting additional links here to other accreditation services for other departments such as Finance or Human Resources, but decided against it as I can't vet any of these advertised programs. If you are interested I encourage you to start with a simple Google search for "Public Agency Accreditation" and you will find several options for Police, Fire, Finance, etc. 

In our 32nd episode we are joined by the City of Edina's Master Electrician and Supervisor Noah Silver. Noah guides us through this nerd session on Electric Vehicles and the required infrastructure to support them. 


Join us for a transformative discussion on how the City of Edina is spearheading the future of electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. With insights from our esteemed guest, Noah Silver, Edina's Master Electrician and Supervisor, you'll gain exclusive knowledge on the intricate process of electrifying city fleets and public spaces. Discover the funding opportunities, including the National Electrical Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program, that can enable other municipalities to follow Edina's pioneering path.

Hear the compelling story of Edina's journey from installing their first Level 2 charging station in 2018 to now managing an advanced charging network with ChargePoint hardware. Learn about the strategic decisions behind setting competitive charging rates and implementing a public charging policy that balances accessibility with efficiency. With 21 electric vehicles in the city’s fleet, including police vehicles capable of enduring 12-hour shifts, you'll get a detailed look at the practicalities and challenges of transitioning to electric mobility within public service sectors.

Finally, get a glimpse into the future of sustainable transportation in Edina, from the innovative CAS fund bridging cost gaps for EV adoption to the latest advancements in electric fire truck technology. Noah Silver, along with key stakeholders, shares their experiences with different EV models and the city's collaborative efforts to expand infrastructure. Whether you're an EV enthusiast or a municipal planner, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiring stories that highlight how Edina is setting a benchmark in sustainable urban transportation.

Show Notes:

News item on Edina's first EV
https://edinadocs.edinamn.gov/weblink/0/edoc/74504/CitySlick_December_2013.pdf

City of Edina's Sustainability website:
https://www.edinamn.gov/458/Sustainability 

This week we may have to temporarily rename the podcast "The Parks and Recreations Nerds" as we welcome Matt Johnson, Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Roseville. Along with my guest co-host Bryce Shearan, a colleague of mine at Bolton & Menk and former Parks and Recreation Director at the City of Little Canada.  Bryce also hosts another podcast - MRPA On the Air. See the show notes for a link to the podcast home page. 

The three of us talk about Roseville's innovative EAB removal and replacement program. We then talk about the Parks and Recreation accreditation standard that Roseville has achieved since 1994. It's a high standard that the Parks and Recreation department continues to meet every 5 years. 

Join us as we nerd out about Parks! 

AI Generated Episode Description:
Embark on an auditory exploration of urban green spaces with Matt Johnson, Roseville's visionary Director of Parks and Recreation, and guest co-host Bryce Sheeran. Together, we uncover the city's strategic battle against the invasive Emerald Ash Borer, detailing the ambitious tree removal and replacement program that paints a promising future for our urban canopy. Our conversation twirls through the challenges and achievements of managing natural spaces within city bounds, emphasizing the importance of public safety while nurturing the aesthetic and ecological vibrancy of our shared environments.

Have you ever considered the delicate dance of community engagement and practical forestry management? Our dialogue includes a conversation about the contractor Tree Trust that  spotlights the collective triumph in saving 250 trees from pestilence and the communal spirit that underpins successful public works projects. We unravel the threads of public and private tree management, revealing the intricate partnerships and initiatives that bolster both the beauty and health of our urban landscapes. The narrative extends beyond Roseville, inspiring neighboring communities to cultivate their own verdant urban retreats.

Wrapping up our journey, we reflect on the enriching pursuit of parks and recreation accreditation. Discover how feedback and peer reviews transform the groundwork of public service, fostering growth, and encouraging equity and non-traditional programming to flourish. As we stray from our usual public works focus, this episode offers a fresh perspective on the nuanced world of parks management, igniting a passion among veterans and newcomers to the field alike. Tune in for an episode that promises to deepen your appreciation for the green oases that grace our cities.

Show Notes:

MN Recreation and Parks Association On the Air Podcast
https://www.mnrpa.org/Podcast

Roseville EAB Response Program
https://www.cityofroseville.com/2006/Emerald-Ash-Borer-EAB

NYT Article: Why One Man Runs a Tree Service That Won’t Cut Down Dead Trees
https://www.nytimes.com/2024/05/08/realestate/eco-friendly-landscaping-dead-trees.html

We are back for our 30th episode here at The Public Works Nerds!

Here is the AI Generated Description. I have to call it out because I can't take credit for this prose:

Unlock the secrets to transforming public perception and securing project funding through masterful communication with our esteemed guest, Sara Renney, Carver County's communications guru. Her rich tapestry of experiences, from corporate corridors to the heartwarming chapters of motherhood, culminates in a pivotal role where her voice shapes the future of public works. Bond with us over tales of strategic outreach that bridges the divide between government entities and the communities they serve, and learn how Sara's journey has equipped her to navigate the complexities of conveying the right message to varied audiences.

Witness the evolution of social media's role in the dynamic landscape of public works as we dissect its influence alongside Sara. We're trading perspectives on why Facebook clicks for Public Works while Instagram paints a vibrant scene for Parks departments, all the while circumventing the challenges of curating content sans a dedicated coordinator. Our conversation goes visual as we spotlight the emotive power of video storytelling, a tool that's proving to be both a heart-tugger and a catalyst in rallying support for projects that pave the way to a better tomorrow.

Lastly, wade into the murky waters of online discourse where the First Amendment meets the digital age. I'll share my mantra for professional poise in the click-happy world of social media as Sarah and I muse on the future's horizon, scanning it for signs of new platforms and AI's role in our sector. Every word and click matters in this dance of democracy and development, and we're here to guide you through it—step by intricate step.

Show Notes:

Carver County Highway 5 Project Information Video
https://youtu.be/fd25TyZuAiQ

Highway 5 Project Funding information
https://www.carvercountymn.gov/departments/public-works/projects-studies/highway-5-improvements/highway-5-funding

20 Tips to Up Your Social Media Game
https://lrrb.org/20-tips-to-up-your-social-media-game/

Join us for Take 2 of the Nerds Unplugged where I sit down with Deb Heiser, Engineering Director for the City of St. Louis Park, MN, and Richard McCoy, Public Works Director and City Engineer for the City of Robbinsdale, MN. We recap the last four episodes and chat about some random topics like college tours, bridge collapses, and infrastructure funding.

I plan to have these Unplugged episodes about once every two months or so. If there is any topic you would like us to discuss, or have a question, feel free to send it in via the podcast website listed below. Thanks for listening!

www.thepublicworksnerds.com

Show Notes:

https://www.pca.state.mn.us/news-and-stories/mpca-brings-cutting-edge-technology-to-minnesota-to-remove-pfas-from-water

 https://www.startribune.com/why-is-the-epa-regulating-pfas-and-what-are-these-forever-chemicals/600357849/

 https://www.epa.gov/sdwa/and-polyfluoroalkyl-substances-pfas

 https://www.pca.state.mn.us/air-water-land-climate/minnesotas-pfas-blueprint

 Baltimore Harbor Bridge Collapse and state by state bridge condition data:

 https://www.axios.com/2024/04/25/baltimore-bridge-collapse-new-channel

 https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2024/04/24/arkansas-bridge-conditions-baltimore

 Mpls Bridge Collapse: August 1, 2007

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I-35W_Mississippi_River_bridge

AI Generated Episode Description:
Ever wondered about the people shaping our city landscapes, the minds behind the concrete, and the tales etched in our urban forests? Buckle up for an enlightening voyage with Deb Heiser and Richard McCoy, as we raise our glasses to Richard's National APWA Award win and dive into Deb's preemptive strike on pavement management. But hold on, because we're not just talking shop—get ready for a heartwarming detour through personal anecdotes, from navigating college tours to the dynamics of family life. It's a candid peek behind the hard hats, blending professional pride with the connective threads of our everyday lives.

Now, let's saunter down the green path where city forestry meets cutting-edge technology. You'll hear the triumphant story of a new graduate taking root in her city forester career and how cities like Robbinsdale and Minnetonka aren't just standing by as the Emerald Ash Borer looms. Discover the arsenal of tools—from GIS to AI—that's revolutionizing how we safeguard our leafy canopies. And as if that wasn't enough, we're also painting a picture of how public works and park spaces can come together to create vibrant, community-centric spots you won't want to miss.

But we're not shying away from the grittier side of things. Enter the labyrinth of infrastructure challenges, where the battle against time and decay calls for ingenious fixes like pipe lining and live sewer monitoring. Learn how we're calibrating our strategies for a smarter future, balancing the scales of high-tech aspirations with the stark reality of budget constraints. And in the shadow of past tragedies like bridge collapses, we're reminded of the unyielding importance of vigilance in infrastructure maintenance. So, if you're ready to ignite your passion for public works and peer into the blueprint of comm

Episode 8 of Season 2 features Chris Evers, a 2023 APWA Top Ten Public Works Leader award winner. That's why I contacted Chris, but I'm so happy I did for many reasons. First of all, I was finally able to nerd out on pavement maintenance. But I was also able to meet a pretty funny, smart, and gracious person in Chris Evers. And since Chris brought up Stuart Smalley in the podcast, we can call this his Daily Affirmation (for those of you too young to catch the reference, google this hilarious SNL skit). 

Listen in as Chris and I talk about innovative pavement maintenance and touch on Artificial Intelligence and APWA. And speaking of AI, here's the AI generated description of the episode. Enjoy!

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Picture the roads we travel every day as the unsung heroes of our daily lives, a network of paths that connect us not only to destinations but to each other. This week, the Public Works Nerds Podcast is honored to host Chris Evers of Pavement Technology Incorporated, an APWA 2023 top 10 public works leader, as we traverse the landscape of pavement innovation. Chris's journey is one of passion and perseverance, shaping the very ground beneath our wheels with advancements that extend the life and function of our roads. From the complexities of airport pavement maintenance to the role of community in public works, Chris's insights are as foundational as the pavements he champions.

Our conversation takes an exciting turn as we trade tales with public works directors in a roundtable that's as much about the power of collaboration as it is about the strategies that help us weather any storm, including the literal ones faced during Florida's hurricane season. The profound respect and recognition for leaders like Chris is felt in their stories, each one laying the groundwork for a stronger, more connected community. The episode is a reflection of the respect that these leaders command, a celebration of the commitment that extends far from the confines of their job descriptions.

Capping off our journey, we cast a spotlight on the technological marvels reshaping the pavement industry. From the environmental prowess of titanium dioxide in combatting urban heat islands and microplastic pollution to the futuristic intersection where artificial intelligence and robotics meet public works, the future is now. These advancements are not just about maintaining roads; they're about propelling public infrastructure into a new era of safety, efficiency, and environmental stewardship. So buckle up and join us as we ride along the cutting edge of pavement progress with our very own 'Pavement Avengers'.

Show Notes:

https://www.pavetechinc.com/

 Research Triangle Cleantech Cluster 2021 Cleantech Innovation Award Winners

https://www.pavetechinc.com/smog-eating-roads/

 Reclamite
FLCAJ Jan-Mar-May PTI Reprint.pdf

 PTI Maltene Replacement Technology

Pavement Avengers Presentation (part of Florida LTAP Pavement Maintenance Webinar)
The Pavement Avengers – A Pavement Preservation Origin Story (by Chat GPT) - Florida LTAP Center

This episode took some time to get out there! Blame vacations and some tech issues, but I am finally dropping the 7th episode in Season 2 - and its a good one! Super fan and Tree Nerd Hannibal Hayes from the City of Minnetonka, MN joins me to talk about using technology to better manage the urban forest. We go off on some tangents about Emerald Ash Borer and tree species diversity and even birthing calves!

This was a fun episode to record with a true renaissance man, Hannibal Hayes. Sit back and enjoy!

Here's the AI generated description for the episode (scroll to the bottom for some good links in the show notes):

Embark on an enlightening expedition through the lush avenues of urban forestry with our esteemed guest, Hannibal Hayes, Minnetonka's city forester and a connoisseur of all things arboreal. From his formative years on a hobby farm to paving the way in managing a bustling city's canopy of over 40,000 trees, Hannibal's narrative intertwines personal anecdotes with professional prowess. Our latest episode captures his innovative strategies, rooted in horticultural sciences and arboriculture, which propel Minnetonka's green infrastructure towards a more diversified and climate-resilient future.

Delving deeper into the technological forest, we unravel the advancements revolutionizing tree management from AI-infused 3D LiDAR scans to the proficient use of drones. These groundbreaking tools aren't merely enhancing tree inventories; they're redefining the very fabric of urban forestry operations. Discover how these high-tech aids combat threats like the emerald ash borer and foster the meticulous care of our urban jungles, ensuring they thrive amidst the challenges of a changing climate.

We round off our arboreal adventure with a narrative on the transformative journey of fallen trees through Minnetonka's wood utilization program. Hannibal regales us with tales of giving these timber giants new purpose, fashioning everything from benches to Instagram-worthy lumber slabs. So tune in, as we not only explore the intersection of technology and environmental stewardship but also inspire you to join the conversation on social media, where sharing the love for our urban forests has never been more vital.

Show Notes:
City of Minnetonka Natural Resources Division
https://www.minnetonkamn.gov/our-city/natural-resources-3502 

 Greehill Tree Inventory and Analysis Platform
https://www.greehill.com/about

 Minnesota Dept of Agriculture – EAB Information
https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/invasives/terrestrialanimals/eab/index.html 

https://mnag.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=63ebb977e2924d27b9ef0787ecedf6e9

US Dept of Agriculture Information on EAB

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/planthealth/plant-pest-and-disease-programs/pests-and-diseases/emerald-ash-borer 

This week I'm joined by a Smart Cities team from Raleigh, North Carolina. Jim Alberque is the GIS and Emerging Technology Manager for the City of Raleigh and John Holden is the Smart City Manager for Raleigh. We talk about what does Smart Cities mean for Raleigh and how is the City focusing on different efforts under this umbrella. 

We cover quite a bit of ground from asset management to traffic monitoring systems as well as using LiDAR data for various purposes. 

Raleigh happens to be hosting the Smart Cities Connect conference in May this year, so check out the link below for that conference and perhaps consider attending! 

Below is the AI Generated Description for this episode, which I always enjoy reading but am hesitant to use this as the main description, but enjoy!

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Embark on a journey through the heart of Raleigh as I, Marc Culver, unravel the city's transformation into a beacon of technological innovation with my esteemed guests, Jim Alberque and John Holden. This episode promises to open your eyes to the seamless blend of traditional city management with cutting-edge smart solutions, all while maintaining a keen focus on equitable benefits for every citizen. Learn how Jim's passion for local government and John's savvy in economic development are the driving forces behind Raleigh's rise as a smart city powerhouse.

As we navigate the multifaceted landscape of smart city evolution, we uncover the groundbreaking ways Raleigh utilizes AI and environmental modeling to revolutionize urban management. From traffic analysis that could transform your morning commute to drone delivery systems forecasted to redefine our skyline, Jim and John showcase how data-driven decision-making and innovative asset management systems are setting new standards for future cities. Moreover, their anecdotes about the forward-thinking use of LiDAR technology for urban planning will leave you pondering the art of city innovation.

Finally, we delve into the soul of Raleigh's smart city journey, examining the confluence of public safety advancements with the grassroots ethos of community involvement. Hear how the city's approach to tech adoption extends beyond mere functionality, fostering a spirit of collaboration across agencies and weaving a rich narrative of civic engagement. Coupled with a glimpse into the anticipated Smart Cities Conference in Raleigh, this episode is a masterclass in how technology, when harnessed thoughtfully, has the power to reshape not just urban landscapes but also the lives within them.

Show Notes:

Connected Triangle+ Summit focuses on Smart Cities Movement (Raleigh story on upcoming conference)
https://raleighnc.gov/apps-maps-and-open-data/services/connected-triangle-summit-focuses-smart-cities-movement

Smart Cities Connect Spring 2024 in Raleigh, NC
https://spring.smartcitiesconnect.org/

The City of Raleigh's Smart City Strategy
https://cityofraleigh0drupal.blob.core.usgovcloudapi.net/drupal-prod/COR21/SmartRaleighStrategy.pdf

Strategy and Innovation
A service unit of the City Manager's Office
https://raleighnc.gov/strategy-and-innovation

In this episode I sit down with my hometown Public Works Director, Sean Kershaw. As any public works nerd knows, we are at times over critical of those that serve us where we live, and we most likely have experienced that heightened scrutiny from current and retired public works professionals that live in our communities. It can be good, reaffirming, constructive, and frustrating. I know most of you reading this have been there.

Sean takes this all very well. He is not your traditional public works professional. His background is more diverse and involves a stint as a planner and roles in the non-profit realm. The perspective he has gained through his professional journey is well applicable to public works and our overriding goal of public service. 

I enjoyed learning more about Sean and his background and what has surprised him in this role. Sit back and listen in on this conversation with one of the most sincere, approachable and self-accountable people I've met. 

Show notes:

The proverb Sean and I were searching our grey haired minds for:
Luck favors the prepared mind.

Sean and his husband's Backyard Concert Series Site:
https://grandoakopry.com/

Welcome to the first Nerds Unplugged episode! Deb Heiser, Michael Thompson and Mark Ray join me as a panel of opinionated Public Works professionals talking about random issues related to Public Works.  This is planned to be a monthly or so feature where we recap recent podcast episodes, talk about public works issues in the news and give updates to what's going on in our public works worlds.

For this first episode we are joined by Richard McCoy, Public Works Director and City Engineer with the City of Robbinsdale, MN. Our Australian native colleague talks about his multi award winning Water Treatment Plant project and how things are a little different in Australia.

The panel also talks about the City Engineers Association of Minnesota's (CEAM) Annual Conference which concluded on February 2nd, the day we recorded this episode.

We hope you enjoy this experiment in the episode format. We would LOVE to hear from our listeners on topics to talk about. Let us know if you have a suggestion or want to share something interesting that is going on in your career and/or community.

Below is the AI generated recap for this episode. I figured I would keep it here in the show notes so you can see what AI thinks of this episode. As always, thanks for listening!

NERDS OUT! 


Ever wondered how the seemingly mundane world of public works is actually a high-stakes game of strategy and innovation? Strap in as we take you beyond the orange cones and into the heart of our communities' unsung heroes with Deb Heiser, Michael Thompson, and Aussie newcomer Richard McCoy. Discover why Minnesota's unseasonable warmth isn't just good for your tan but also for street maintenance, and how our playful podcast download rivalry underscores the passion that drives public works professionals across the globe.

This episode isn't just about the concrete and pipes beneath our feet; it's a celebration of the milestones marking the journey of our colleagues, like Mark Ray's exciting new chapter as Public Works Director in Burnsville. As we chat with these industry mavens, we uncover the crucial blend of ethics, culture, and communication that propels our field forward. You'll gain insights into the intricate dance of long-term infrastructure planning, the human touch needed in crisis management, and the cultural shifts that are redefining our workspaces from the inside out. 

Join us for a discourse that ventures into the lesser-seen realms of public works, from the complexity of waste management in the face of changing policies to the surprising efficiency of trash-to-energy processes. Learn how cities like Plymouth are navigating the organics collection conundrum and why Aussie asset management might just be the blueprint for future-proofing our infrastructure. This isn't just talk; it's a masterclass in the art of balancing technical prowess with the finesse of community service. Grab your hard hat and let's get to work understanding the world that works for us.