Two Marks trade friendly jabs while making a serious case for APWA: vote, get involved, and mentor the next generation. Join Mark Ray and me, Marc Culver, as we walk through the Minnesota chapter ballot, unpack what the board actually does, and share practical ways to lead well and care for yourself.

• APWA Minnesota election overview and why turnout matters
• Department rebrand from operations and maintenance to public works
• What the APWA board does and why representation matters
• Candidate spotlights across municipal, consultant and regional roles
• Mentorship as legacy, mock interviews and LinkedIn as a living log
• Self‑care as leadership capacity in high‑stakes seasons
• Communicating long‑horizon infrastructure value to communities
• PWX conferences, LTAP and LRRB resources, and how to plug in

Vote for Marc. Vote for Mark. Help us spread the word on the podcast. Drop us a comment on LinkedIn, like our posts, what have you. It really helps us spread the word.

I'm excited to welcome my good friend and former colleague Ryan Johnson to the show. Ryan is the Environmental Manager for the City of Roseville in Minnesota and is my favorite storm water and water resources guru. Ryan joins me in this episode to talk about the underappreciated role of making sure that private stormwater BMP's are properly maintained. I know, exciting! But it is. And it is certainly very important for the overall efficiency of the public stormwater system as well. Enjoy!

AI Generated Description:

Private stormwater device maintenance is vital to the overall operation of municipal stormwater systems, especially for meeting retention and treatment goals. Ryan Johnson shares his expertise as Roseville's Environmental Manager on managing these often-overlooked infrastructure components.

• Ryan's background includes working with Ramsey County on residential BMPs and critical area stabilizations before joining Roseville
• Roseville faces unique challenges as a first-ring suburb built in the 50s-60s with limited stormwater planning
• Private property BMPs are essential when municipalities can't handle all stormwater management alone
• Maintenance of underground chambers requires regular inspection and cleaning of pretreatment structures
• Proactive maintenance is far more cost-effective than emergency repairs or city enforcement
• Roseville created a comprehensive program with maintenance agreements, plans, and code enforcement
• Property owner education is crucial as many don't realize they have stormwater infrastructure
• The city can perform abatements when property owners fail to maintain their systems
• Success stories include both the property owner who immediately took action and challenging sites requiring enforcement
• Future plans include potentially offering inspection services similar to private hydrant programs

Contact your local municipal stormwater team if you're uncertain about the maintenance requirements for stormwater infrastructure on your property.

This episode a great deep dive into asset management with arguably the premier asset management system on the market today. I've been working with Cartegraph since 2010 and have been very impressed with their software and vision for constant improvement. Join me as I welcome Jon Kremer, self proclaimed Product CEO for the Cartegraph Asset Management System at OpenGov, and we talk about how clients are using Cartegraph today, how it has evolved over the decades, and where it is going in the future. Enjoy!

https://opengov.com/products/asset-management/

AI Generated Episode Description:

Every public works professional eventually confronts the challenge of asset management. How do you track thousands of infrastructure elements, maintain them efficiently, and plan for their eventual replacement? It's a question that combines technology, human behavior, and financial planning in ways that can make or break a department's effectiveness.

John Kramer, who leads product management for OpenGov's Enterprise Asset Management system, formerly known as, takes us through the fascinating evolution of asset management systems. From his early days implementing solutions for municipalities across America to his current role designing the future of these platforms, Kramer shares insights that apply to organizations of every size.

The conversation explores how asset management has transformed from paper-based workflows to cloud systems accessible from smartphones. What's remarkable is how the fundamentals remain consistent—you're still tracking the same basic information about signs, water mains, and park equipment—while the methods for collecting and using that data have revolutionized daily operations. As Kramer explains, success depends on a "three-legged stool" of products, people, and processes working together.

We dive into implementation strategies that work, discussing how starting with smaller, focused rollouts often proves more effective than attempting organization-wide adoption. The most successful departments find champions who naturally gravitate to the technology and then leverage their enthusiasm to spread adoption organically. The conversation then turns to exciting future developments: connected systems that integrate asset data with financial planning, Internet of Things sensors providing real-time monitoring, and artificial intelligence applications that can identify assets from photographs and optimize work scheduling.

Whether you're considering your first asset management implementation or looking to improve an existing system, this episode offers practical wisdom from decades of experience across hundreds of municipalities. Share your thoughts or questions with us on LinkedIn at Public Works Nerds.

We really nerd out in this episode as we are joined by Steve Nelson and Ryan Stempski, both from WSB & Associates, to talk about PFAS in our drinking water supplies. There is much to unpack about this complex and important issue, and this is just the first hour in likely several hours of conversation on this topic in the months ahead. Enjoy!

AI Generated Episode Description:

The drinking water crisis nobody's ready for is already here. PFAS, nicknamed "forever chemicals," have infiltrated water supplies across America, and new EPA regulations mandating treatment down to 4 parts per trillion have created a staggering financial burden for communities. This eye-opening conversation with PFAS experts Steve Nelson and Ryan Stempski reveals the true scale of the problem.

What makes PFAS so concerning? The carbon-fluorine bond at their core is virtually indestructible in nature, meaning these chemicals persist in groundwater sources for decades or longer. With health effects ranging from increased cholesterol to cancer risks, the EPA's stringent new limits aim to protect public health—but at what cost?

For a city like Hastings, Minnesota, treating seven contaminated wells will cost approximately $68.9 million to build treatment facilities and about $1 million annually to operate—a $100 million lifetime investment. Using Granular Activated Carbon (GAC), the primary treatment technology, communities must effectively create "parking garages" where PFAS molecules can be trapped. When these carbon vessels become saturated, they must be replaced at roughly $60,000 each.

The Minnesota experience offers valuable insights for communities nationwide. While the $850+ million 3M settlement provides funding for impacted areas in the East Metro, most American communities will need to cobble together federal grants, state assistance, and increased water rates to afford treatment. As one expert notes, "We're all going to be competing for the same resources" as the 2029 compliance deadline approaches.

Whether your community is dealing with PFAS now or will in the future, this conversation provides crucial understanding of the science, costs, and challenges ahead. The affordable water we've taken for granted may soon be a thing of the past. Subscribe now and join the conversation about how we'll protect our most vital resource.

A deep dive into the City of Rosemount's newly completed Police and Public Works Facility with Public Works Director Nick Egger and Oertel Architects President Andrew Cooper. They share insights on the planning, design, and construction of this $58 million, 160,000 square foot joint facility that addresses decades of space needs while planning for future growth.

• Acquisition of the 20-acre site through a three-way land swap between the city, Minnesota National Guard, and Flint Hills Resources
• The unique partnership between police and public works departments, rarely seen in municipal facilities
• Design challenges of accommodating large vehicles and ensuring adequate turning radius for snow plows and equipment
• Architectural features like roof "pop-ups" that provide natural daylight while serving as smoke control devices
• Smart technology integration with lighting systems that adjust based on natural light levels and occupancy
• Future planning considerations for department expansion and eventual site build-out
• Emerging trends in facility design, particularly the implications of electric vehicle fleets and their impact on space requirements
• The importance of designing facilities that help recruit and retain talented staff through training spaces and employee wellbeing features

Help us grow our audience by liking, reposting, or commenting on LinkedIn or other social media platforms. Reach out with episode or guest ideas - we'd love to hear your feedback!

https://www.rosemountmn.gov/925/Police-Public-Works-Campus

Marc Culver returns with Season 3 of Public Works Nerds, sharing his career transition to Brooklyn Park City Engineer and welcoming back Mark Ray to discuss his recent professional journey to Australia.

• Mark Ray's Australian Small Bridge Conference experience featured fascinating insights into bridge inspection methods
• Australia uses standardized Level 1-3 inspection terminology creating consistent communication about infrastructure conditions
• The "bathtub curve" concept explains how infrastructure failures happen most often during early construction and end-of-life phases
• Australian engineers utilize sensors, LiDAR, and drones for infrastructure monitoring while emphasizing the human element in interpretation
• Asset management requirements are more ingrained in Australian government agencies than in the US
• "Public works makes normal happen" - infrastructure professionals serve as the "stage crew" for everyone's daily life
• Upcoming Season 3 episodes will cover PFAS, maintenance facilities, and AI in asset management

Please follow the podcast on LinkedIn and send us your episode ideas and feedback!

Show Notes:

Municipal Works Australia
https://municipalworks.com.au/

Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia https://www.ipwea.org/ipweacommunities/assetmanagement

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/