WSB’s sustainability team has a contract with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) to provide a cumulative total of approximately $200,000 in technical environmental and climate-related assistance to Minnesota Tribes at no cost to tribal communities, now through June 2026. In the coming weeks and months, WSB will be reaching out to your Tribe to listen, understand your goals, and explore opportunities to align our support with your community’s vision. This funding is designed to enhance capacity and offer free, expert assistance to identify, prioritize, and implement Tribal environmental and climate-related projects that may have otherwise faced barriers to completion, ensuring that the projects we support reflect your Tribe’s unique priorities and long-term goals.
What projects are eligible?
This technical assistance can include activities such as:
Sustainability/Climate Work
Climate plans and greenhouse gas inventories
Sustainability Plans
Renewables development
Policy development such as for solar, EVs, water conservation
Feasibility studies (such as EV or solar plans)
Community planning and economic development
Public engagement support on climate topics
Natural Resource Support
Water resources, water reuse, and hydrology modeling
Forestry services
Fisheries services
Wetland and soils services
Regulatory assistance
Limnological analysis
Vegetation surveys
GIS support
Transportation Support
Transportation or transit planning that reduce vehicle miles travelled
Trail planning and fundraising
Traffic engineering such as to support pedestrian or EV-related projects
Grant Support
Identification, writing, and administration assistance
Partnership development
Research and analysis to identify most competitive grant applications
How can WSB support my Tribe?
WSB is a trusted engineering and consulting firm with deep expertise in energy, resiliency, water, environmental stewardship, transportation, and a range of other disciplines. We have had the privilege of partnering with Tribes across the Midwest, providing tailored support in climate planning, renewable energy development, and natural resource management. Our team approaches every project with respect for Tribal sovereignty, cultural values, and traditions—prioritizing meaningful relationship building, adaptability, and genuine curiosity. Based in Minneapolis, our project team is readily available to travel to your community to engage directly and ensure our work reflects your Tribe’s unique needs and priorities.
Amy has nearly 25 years of experience across many industries, particularly energy and agriculture, in the public, private and nonprofit sectors. This experience has provided Amy with a broad background that enables her to meet community and business needs based on the business case for sustainability. By working across intersecting systems to simultaneously advance environmental, economic and social goals, she is able to uncover creative solutions.
April 14, 2025 By Allison Whittsitt, Planning Manager, WSB
In today’s world, cities must be prepared to address a wide range of emergencies and disasters that affect citizens, businesses, and critical infrastructure. This preparation begins with comprehensive emergency management and disaster planning. Comprehensive solutions help cities effectively plan, respond, and recover from emergencies. This approach includes risk assessment and mitigation strategies, response protocols, and recovery plans.
Benefits of Planning
The benefits of emergency management and disaster planning include improved coordination among response teams, enhanced public safety, and reduced economic losses. Effective plans mitigate long-term impacts and ensure quicker recovery. Without proper planning, cities face chaotic responses, increased casualties, and prolonged recovery times, resulting in unnecessary economic losses and vulnerabilities.
Developing emergency management and disaster plans is crucial for cities for several reasons:
It ensures the safety and well-being of residents by providing clear guidelines and procedures during emergencies. These plans enhance the resilience of cities, making them better equipped to handle and recover from disasters.
Having a structured plan fosters trust and confidence among citizens, who can feel assured their city is prepared for any eventuality.
Well-developed plans can attract businesses and investors by demonstrating a city’s commitment to stability and security.
Cities that implement comprehensive planning are often eligible for various grants and funding opportunities that are not otherwise accessible, which can further strengthen their emergency preparedness efforts.
The benefits of emergency management and disaster planning services include:
These plans improve residents’ safety, increase city resilience, and foster trust
Well-developed plans attract businesses and investors and make cities eligible for various grants, strengthening preparedness
How it Works
There are four pillars of emergency management – preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation. Tackling each with a systematic approach and seamlessly combining the outcomes creates a more resilient community.
Starting with hazard mitigation planning, risk assessments identify potential threats unique to each city, from natural disasters to human-made incidents. A FEMA-approved hazard mitigation plan opens doors for funding to support all phases of emergency management.
Emergency management includes expertise in disaster deployment, public assistance, hazard mitigation, damage assessments, and debris management. Local and state experience, a certified meteorologist, and support from engineers and GIS professionals enhance planning and grant application efforts, identifying vulnerabilities and reducing risk.
Securing grant funding as a direct result of their hazard mitigation plan strengthens local resilience and reduces repetitive loss. Additionally, aiding in the implementation of the Community Rating System (CRS) encourages communities to implement floodplain management practices that will lower insurance rates by up to 45% and ensure enhanced flood preparedness.
Working with city officials to establish response protocols during natural hazard events ensures that all stakeholders are prepared to act swiftly in the event of a disaster.
Emergency action plans for dams and levees foster faster, more organized responses that minimize harm.
Exercises conducted help municipalities, private businesses, schools, and other entities evaluate their emergency operations plans through realistic scenarios, revealing weaknesses in plans and improving capability gaps and equipment readiness.
Grant Funding to Support Planning and Preparation
To support cities in their emergency management efforts, numerous grants are available. These funds help implement preparedness initiatives, purchase equipment, and train personnel. Engaging with experienced services helps cities apply for and manage these grants, ensuring compliance and effective fund use.
Conclusion
Emergency management and disaster planning expertise helps cities build resilience and ensure the safety of their residents. City officials and stakeholders are invited to learn more about how services can be tailored to meet the unique needs of their urban environments. Together, a safer, more resilient future can be created for cities.
Allison Whittsitt has served as the Northeast Regional Coordinator for the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security. As WSB’s Planning and Grants Department Manager, she oversees projects including Hazard Mitigation Plan updates, new and existing Emergency Operations Plans, and application/submission of state and federal grants along with various other work.
April 14, 2025 By Treasure Agbonkhese, Environmental Compliance Specialist, WSB
Expert insights on adapting to upcoming program updates
The Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) program is a critical initiative aimed at reducing the pollutants that enter our water bodies through stormwater runoff. Managed under the Clean Water Act, the MS4 program requires regulated entities, such as cities, counties, universities, and even highway departments, to develop and implement a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program (SWPPP). This ensures that the quality of water discharged from their systems meets the requirements set forth by the local agencies and the EPA. Organizations need to prepare for MS4 changes and reauthorizations which necessitate both awareness and preparedness from involved stakeholders. Each state reauthorizes their own permits, for example Minnesota’s expire in 2025 and Oklahoma’s are set to expire in 2026.
MS4 programs will likely see several pivotal updates designed to enhance its effectiveness and expand their scope. Those changes may include:
Reauthorization of NPDES MS4 permits
New rules and requirements
More audits conducted by the MPCA to ensure compliance with the current MS4 permit
Annual Reporting
Increased emphasis on TSS, TMDL, and Waste Load Allocation
Increased emphasis on the education and incorporation of green infrastructure solutions, such as rain gardens and permeable pavements, which help mitigate stormwater impacts.
These changes underscore the program’s commitment to leveraging sustainable practices to protect our water resources better.
To prepare for these impending changes, municipalities and other regulated entities must take proactive steps. Firstly, reviewing and updating current Stormwater Pollution Prevention Programs to align with the current requirements is crucial. This may involve investing in new technologies for inspection, monitoring and data collection of stormwater infrastructure, as well as training staff to handle more complex reporting and documenting tasks in illicit discharge, construction, and post-construction stormwater management. Secondly, exploring green infrastructure options and integrating them into existing frameworks can provide long-term benefits and compliance with the 2025 updates. Engagement with community stakeholders and public education campaigns will also be essential to ensure widespread understanding and support for these initiatives.
WSB stands ready to assist entities in navigating these changes, offering comprehensive services ranging from full management of MS4 programs to targeted support for specific components. With our expertise in stormwater management and green infrastructure, we can help you assess your current systems, identify areas for improvement, implement solutions that meet the current and future requirements, and help perform self-audits of current MS4 programs. Our team is equipped to handle everything from initial development and management to ongoing construction sites, illicit discharge, facility inspections, and maintenance and reporting, ensuring a seamless transition to the new NPDES MS4 Permit.
In conclusion, changes to the MS4 program represent a significant step forward in protecting our water resources. By preparing now and leveraging the expertise of partners like WSB, municipalities, counties, state departments and other stakeholders can successfully adapt and thrive under the new requirements. Together, we can ensure the continued health and sustainability of our water bodies for future generations.
Treasure is an environmental compliance specialist at WSB. Her background includes water resources engineering, construction site and MS4 permitting, SWPPP design and inspection, and MS4 program development and implementation. Her passion for MS4 coupled with her background in engineering brings a level of engagement, creativity, training, and unique skills to MS4 program development and management.
April 10, 2025 By Shannon McGrath, Director of Asset Management Planning & Bryan Pittman. GIS Lead, WSB
Empowering Tribal Leaders with GIS Technology
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) have revolutionized asset management across various sectors, providing intuitive, data-driven solutions to manage and optimize resources efficiently. For tribal leaders committed to enhancing their communities, embracing GIS to support tribal asset management can be transformative. This article explores the role of GIS in asset management, the benefits it offers, and how to initiate its use within tribal communities.
Understanding GIS in Asset Management
GIS integrates spatial (location-based) and traditional asset data, creating an interactive map of resources. This comprehensive approach involves collecting, storing, analyzing, and visualizing data related to infrastructure, land parcels, planning, utilities, and environmental resources. By geographically displaying asset data, GIS facilitates informed decision-making and efficient resource allocation. By leveraging geospatial technology, tribal leaders gain unique insights into asset location and other available attributes such as type, description, condition, and age, fostering a data-driven approach to capital and maintenance planning.
Benefits of GIS in Asset Management
Enhanced Decision-Making GIS empowers tribal leaders with critical data to make informed decisions. By visualizing assets and their status on maps, leaders can identify areas needing attention, prioritize investments, and plan for future developments. This data-driven approach ensures resources are allocated efficiently and effectively, leading to improved outcomes for the community.
Improved Resource Allocation One of the significant advantages of GIS is its ability to optimize resource allocation. Whether managing land use, infrastructure maintenance, or environmental conservation, GIS-based spatial analysis helps in pinpointing precisely where interventions are needed. This precision reduces waste, minimizes costs, and ensures that resources are directed where they will have the most significant impact.
Effective Monitoring and Maintenance Regular monitoring and maintenance of assets are crucial for sustainability. GIS-based asset management systems enable automated tracking and reporting, ensuring that assets are maintained in optimal condition. Tribal leaders can set up alerts for maintenance schedules, create work orders, monitor asset conditions in real-time, and efficiently manage repairs and upgrades.
Community Engagement and Transparency Transparency is vital for building trust within the community. GIS platforms and interactive web maps can be used to share information with community members, fostering engagement and collaboration. By providing access to data and maps, leaders can involve the community in decision-making processes, enhancing participation and fostering a sense of ownership.
Disaster Management and Response In the face of natural disasters, GIS proves to be a valuable resource. By mapping assets and identifying vulnerable areas, leaders can develop comprehensive emergency response plans. Flood and slope vulnerability models can be overlayed with asset locations. GIS facilitates quick response times, efficient resource deployment, and effective coordination during crises, safeguarding community well-being.
Getting Started with Managing Assets in GIS
Implementing GIS to manage assets in tribal communities requires strategic planning and investment. Here are steps to get started:
Assess Current Needs and Capabilities Begin by evaluating the current state of asset management within the community. Identify the assets that need to be managed, the data available, and the technology infrastructure in place. Understanding your starting point is crucial for a successful GIS implementation and to determine if a more robust asset management system with GIS integration is necessary.
Data Collection and Integration Accurate and comprehensive data is essential for effective GIS asset inventories. This requires collecting both spatial and non-spatial data, collaborating with stakeholders across departments to ensure completeness. Integrating historical records, real-time updates, and detailed attributes creates a unified and reliable dataset.
Training and Capacity Building Invest in training for your team to ensure they can effectively use the GIS platform and data collection tools. Providing comprehensive training programs and capacity-building initiatives will empower staff with the skills needed to leverage GIS technology. Partnering with experts like WSB for training can facilitate a smoother transition and enhance proficiency.
Developing a Data Maintenance and Update Plan Managing asset data in GIS is an ongoing process. Establish a plan for regular data updates and system maintenance to keep the platform functional and accurate. Set up protocols for data collection, monitoring, and reporting to ensure continuous improvement of the system.
Asset Management Planning Once data is available in GIS or a GIS-integrated asset management system, an asset management plan can be developed that incorporates risk, performance monitoring, financial planning, and life cycle planning. This utilizes asset location and information to create a proactive approach to managing assets over a long period of time, ensuring the right fix and the location at the right time.
WSB: Your Partner in GIS-Based Asset Management
Embarking on the journey of GIS-based asset management can be complex, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. WSB has a team of experts specializing in GIS technology and asset management solutions tailored to tribal communities. Our professionals can help you assess your current needs, implement the right GIS platform, and provide ongoing support to maintain and optimize your system.
At WSB, we understand the unique challenges and opportunities within tribal communities. Our approach is customized to ensure that GIS asset management aligns with your specific goals and enhances community well-being. We offer comprehensive training, data integration services, and continuous support to ensure your GIS system is robust and effective.
By partnering with WSB, tribal leaders can leverage the power of GIS and asset management to drive informed decision-making, improve resource allocation, and foster community engagement. Together, we can build a sustainable and prosperous future for your community.
Embrace the potential of GIS and asset management and let WSB guide you every step of the way.
Shannon has spent over a decade advancing asset management at local, state, and national levels by serving on asset management committees, advisory panels, and project management teams. While working at MnDOT, Shannon directed the agency-wide asset management planning including projects, research, policy, innovation, strategic planning, and implementation in collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.
Bryan has worked with data models and schema for roadway assets, database design and management, data manipulation and aggregation, ESRI’s Field Maps and Experience Builder Application, Lidar data, and spatial/3D analysis. He works with clients to address their GIS needs and make sure they have the tools and training needed to be successful with GIS.
Empowering Tribal Leaders with Sustainable Solutions
In today’s rapidly evolving energy landscape, the shift toward renewable energy sources offers unprecedented opportunities for tribal communities to achieve energy sovereignty. This transition not only fosters environmental sustainability but also strengthens economic resilience and enhances community self-reliance. As tribal leaders, understanding the benefits and practical steps to harness renewable energy is crucial for the prosperity of your communities.
The Benefits of Renewable Energy
Adopting renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydropower can transform the energy dynamics within tribal communities. Here are some key benefits:
Environmental Stewardship: Renewable energy significantly reduces carbon emissions and minimizes the ecological footprint, aligning with many tribes’ values of respecting and preserving the natural world.
Economic Development: Investing in renewable energy can create jobs for tribal citizens, stimulate local economies, and reduce dependency on external energy sources, keeping more resources within the community.
Energy Security: Renewable energy sources are abundant and locally available, reducing vulnerability to volatile energy markets and supply disruptions.
Cost Savings: Over time, renewable energy systems can lower electricity bills, providing long-term financial benefits for both individual households and the community at large.
Advancing Community Priorities: By investing in renewables, forward-thinking communities can take measurable steps to advance local climate and sustainability goals, becoming model stewards for other tribes.
Understanding How Renewable Energy Works
Renewable energy harnesses natural processes that are continuously replenished. Here’s a brief overview of some common types:
Solar Energy: Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity using photovoltaic cells. This energy can be used immediately, stored in batteries, or fed into the grid.
Wind Energy: Wind turbines capture kinetic energy from the wind and convert it into electrical power.
Hydro Energy: Flowing water, typically from rivers or dams, generates electricity through turbines and generators.
Each of these technologies can be tailored to the specific needs and resources of tribal lands, ensuring a sustainable and reliable energy supply.
Achieving Energy Sovereignty
Energy sovereignty refers to the ability of a community to control its energy production, distribution, and consumption. For tribal communities, this means leveraging renewable energy to gain independence from external utilities and creating a self-sufficient energy infrastructure. By doing so, tribes can ensure consistent and affordable energy access, protect their environmental resources, and enhance their economic stability.
Steps to Get Started with Renewable Energy
Embarking on the journey to renewable energy requires careful planning and collaboration. Here are some steps to guide you:
Assess Resources: Begin by evaluating the natural resources available on your land. Consider factors such as sunlight exposure, wind patterns, and water flow.
Engage the Community: Involve community members in the decision-making process to ensure their needs and perspectives are considered.
Develop a Plan: Create a comprehensive energy plan that outlines goals, timelines, and budget considerations.
Secure Funding: Explore funding options, including grants, loans, rebates, and partnerships with government agencies and private organizations.
Implement the Project: Work with experts to design, install, and maintain renewable energy systems.
How WSB Can Help
At WSB, we specialize in guiding tribal communities through the transition to renewable energy. Our services include community solar feasibility analysis and sustainability planning to help you think both short and long-term.
What is a Solar Feasibility Analysis?
A solar feasibility analysis is a comprehensive assessment that evaluates the viability of a solar energy project. It includes:
Site Assessment: Analyzing the location to determine the best placement for solar panels.
Energy Production Estimates: Calculating the potential energy output based on local solar radiation data.
Financial Analysis: Estimating the costs, savings, and return on investment for the project.
Regulatory Review: Identifying any legal or regulatory requirements that must be met.
How It Helps
A solar feasibility analysis provides tribal leaders with critical information to make informed decisions. It assures that the proposed solar project is practical, cost-effective, and tailored to the community’s needs. With this analysis, you can confidently move forward with a renewable energy project that maximizes benefits and minimizes risks.
Learn more about how our solar feasibility analysis work with the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community helped them to secure federal funding to further their renewable energy goals.
Conclusion
Transitioning to renewable energy is a powerful step toward achieving energy sovereignty for tribal communities. By understanding the benefits, how the technology works, and the steps to get started, tribal leaders can pave the way for a sustainable and prosperous future. Partnering with experts like WSB assures that the journey to renewable energy is guided by knowledge, expertise, and a commitment to community well-being. Let us help you take the first step towards a greener, more self-reliant future.
Ameer leads and executes complex renewable energy projects, with a demonstrated expertise in managing teams, optimizing project lifecycles, and delivering innovative solutions. His project management experience includes planning, scheduling, budgeting, risk assessment and stakeholder management. He is passionate about renewable energy technologies, such as solar, battery storage and EV charging.
December 4, 2024 By Amy Fredregill, Sr Director of Sustainability, WSB
We would like share news about three upcoming resiliency grant opportunities that can help cities in Minnesota advance their strategic plans, reduce costs and risks, and provide new services to stakeholders.
MN Pollution Control Agency Local Climate Action Grant
The MN Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) has opened applications for the Local Climate Action (LCA) grants. There are two types of grants available: a climate action planning grant and a climate action implementation grant. These grants are available to local governments, Tribes, community-based nonprofits, and schools working on projects to reduce climate pollution and prepare communities for climate change impacts.
The planning grant focuses on developing local action plans to combat and adapt to climate change, including community-wide greenhouse gas emissions data collection through the Regional Indicators Initiative at no cost. The implementation grants fund projects that execute existing climate or sustainability plans, aiming to increase community resilience to climate change and reduce contributions to it.
The maximum grant award for both programs is $50,000, with a match requirement based on community population size. Communities with populations under 20,000 need to match 5% of the grant amount, while those with populations of 20,000 or more need to match 50%. Applications are due by January 9, 2025.
MPCA Community Resilience Implementation Grant
The MPCA is also offering $5 million in grants for non-stormwater and non-wastewater projects to enhance community resilience to climate change. Eligible projects include extreme heat mitigation, hardening public assets against extreme weather, upgrading resilience hubs, improving transportation alternatives, wildfire resilience, public water supply projects, and climate resiliency upgrades to publicly owned housing or community storm shelters. Applications are due by December 19, 2024.
Geothermal Planning Grants
The Minnesota Department of Commerce is launching a new grant program to provide financial assistance for examining the feasibility of geothermal energy systems. Grants of up to $150,000 are available for planning geothermal systems that heat and cool buildings. Eligible applicants include counties, cities, townships, and the Metropolitan Council. The program will launch by the end of 2024, with a public webinar scheduled for December 16, 2024.
Next Steps
At WSB, we specialize in helping communities secure funding and grant opportunities through competitive applications, innovative partnerships, and cost-effective approaches. Recently, we assisted a tribe in securing $5 million from the EPA for a Climate Pollution Reduction Grant and helped a city obtain a Solar on Public Buildings grant. Let us know how we can assist you in securing funding to advance your goals.
Amy has nearly 25 years of experience across many industries, particularly energy and agriculture, in the public, private and nonprofit sectors. This experience has provided Amy with a broad background that enables her to meet community and business needs based on the business case for sustainability. By working across interesting systems to simultaneously advance environmental, economic and social goals, she is able to uncover creative solutions. Through her relationship-based approach, Amy meets the unique needs of communities and businesses by working with all areas of the firm to provide comprehensive solutions.
November 11, 2024 By Ameer Kian, Sr Project Manager, WSB
The Minnesota Legislature established the Solar on Public Buildings (SPB) Grant Program in 2023, allocating $4.3 million in grants to local governments within Xcel Energy’s service territory. Administered by the Department of Commerce, this program aims to promote solar energy systems on public buildings, supplementing Federal Tax Credits.
Eligibility and Application Process
Eligible applicants include counties, cities, towns, and federally recognized Indian Tribes in Minnesota, excluding school districts within Xcel Energy’s service territory. The grants cover up to 70% of project costs for solar arrays on public buildings, with a capacity of up to 40kW or 120% of the building’s annual energy consumption. The application deadline is Monday, December 2, 2024.
The Solar on Public Buildings Grant Program enables cities to reduce energy costs, lower carbon footprints, and demonstrate commitment to renewable energy. Economic efficiency is achieved through financial incentives and long-term energy savings. Solar energy’s environmental impact includes reducing greenhouse gas emissions and fossil fuel reliance. Adopting solar positions local governments as sustainability leaders, enhancing community pride and fostering innovation.
How WSB Can Help
WSB has successfully applied for and received funding for our clients from the first round of this program earlier this year. We can assist in the following areas:
Streamlining the RFP process and completing the Readiness Application, ensuring compliance with the grant application requirements
Prioritizing locations for grant consideration based on energy usage data and solar feasibility
Identifying system and City eligibility for additional funding via Federal Clean Energy Tax Credit Elective Pay system
Navigating through complexities with Community Solar Garden subscriptions and eligibility requirements
Estimating PV system size, annual production and assessing utility grid capacity based on publicly available tools
Providing guidance on solar best practices and setting up a successful RFP process for contractor selection
In addition to the Solar for Public Buildings RFP, WSB has experience in and can support local municipalities and governments in their energy and sustainability goals by:
Writing zoning ordinance updates to align city code with EV and Solar infrastructure
Drafting and implementing Climate Plans to secure funding for solar and renewable energy and helping design EV Charging infrastructure
Writing grants to obtain energy efficiency funds and conduct equitable community outreach to drive future climate focused investments
The SPB Program empowers local governments to lead in sustainability. With WSB’s expertise, cities can navigate the grant process, maximize funding, and implement impactful solar projects. This program not only reduces energy costs and environmental impact but also positions cities as leaders in innovation and sustainability. Embracing this program is a significant step towards a cleaner, greener future. Contact us today to get help starting the application process.
Ameer leads and executes complex renewable energy projects, with a demonstrated expertise in managing teams, optimizing project lifecycles, and delivering innovative solutions. His project management experience includes planning, scheduling, budgeting, risk assessment and stakeholder management. He is passionate about renewable energy technologies, such as solar, battery storage and EV charging.
October 15, 2024 By Ryan Earp, Director of Public Engagement and Chhavi Dhingra, Public Engagement Sr Manager, WSB
On April 24, 2024, the Department of Justice (DOJ) updated the rules for Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). These new rule require all websites and mobile applications provided by state and local governments to follow the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1, Level AA standards. This means nearly all public documents, forms, and permits must be made fully accessible to people with disabilities. Depending on population size, they must meet these standards by either April 2026 or 2027.
Benefits for Residents and Cities
Implementing these new ADA requirements can significantly enhance access to information for residents with disabilities, thereby promoting inclusivity. By ensuring digital content is accessible, cities can provide a more equitable experience, allowing all residents to engage fully with municipal services and information. Furthermore, this effort demonstrates a city’s commitment to meeting the diverse needs of its populace, fostering community trust and satisfaction.
Challenges Posed for Cities
Integrating WCAG 2.1, Level AA compliance can present several challenges for municipalities. The requirement involves updating a wide range of digital content, which can be resource-intensive. Cities may need to overhaul existing documents and online resources while also ensuring future content meets the new standards. Additionally, staff must be trained in these accessibility requirements, adding another layer of complexity to the implementation process.
How WSB Can Assist
WSB is certified in ADA communications and offers comprehensive support to help local governments navigate these requirements successfully. Here is how we can help:
Digital Accessibility Audits: Identify areas where your current communications might not be accessible to individuals with disabilities.
Accessible Document Creation/Conversion: Make all public-facing documents, including PDFs, PowerPoint presentations, and Word files compatible with screen readers and other assistive technologies.
Accessible Social Media Messaging: Ensure your social media content includes alt text for images, closed captions for videos, and plain language to make it accessible to all.
Emergency Communication Planning: Develop strategies to ensure emergency communications are accessible, so all residents receive vital information.
Public Feedback Mechanisms: Establish channels for individuals with disabilities to offer feedback on accessibility and suggest improvements.
Vendor Oversight and Compliance: Create checklists or frameworks to collaborate with external vendors helping them adhere to accessibility standards in their digital platform development.
Contact us today for a free initial accessibility audit. We will assess your city’s website and related documents, providing you with an inventory of accessibility needs. This will form the foundation of an action plan for 2025.
*Level AA of the WCAG represents an intermediate level of accessibility, legally required for many websites. It improves upon the basic Level A requirements with an additional 20 criteria aimed at making content adaptable, readable, and easy to navigate for users with various disabilities.
Ryan has worked with a variety of private and public sector clients to develop impactful strategic communications plans and execute stakeholder and community engagement initiatives. Ryan is passionate about integrating emerging tools and technologies to meet stakeholder outreach objectives for our WSB clients.
Chhavi is a transportation engineer and public engagement professional with almost 20 years of experience developing sustainable policy, practices, and communication strategies, and leading stakeholder management for transportation and transit projects. She has supported several road transportation planning projects globally while overseeing engagement, multi-stakeholder partnerships and strategic communications focusing on addressing mobility and accessibility needs of disadvantaged communities.
October 15, 2024 By Jim Stremel, Sr Professional Engineer, WSB
In today’s rapidly evolving world, the pressure on public infrastructure to meet the increasing demands of population growth, environmental changes, and technology has never been greater. As we navigate these challenges, the role of professional engineers in the public sector has become indispensable. These engineers are at the forefront of designing, constructing, and maintaining the essential systems and structures that serve our communities, from roads and bridges to water treatment facilities and sewer collections systems.
Employing a professional engineer for modernizing infrastructure seems like a logical requirement, but few people understand how licensure is related to the profession. Similar to how doctors view the Hippocratic oath, professional engineers are not only dedicated but required to protect public health, safety, and welfare. Professional engineers bring a blend of technical expertise, innovative thinking, and strategic planning to the table. They are not just problem solvers but also visionaries who foresee needs and challenges in the future. For instance, the integration of smart technologies into infrastructure projects can enhance efficiency and sustainability. Imagine roads that charge electric cars as they drive, or bridges equipped with sensors to monitor health and safety in real time. These are no longer figments of imagination but real possibilities with modern engineering.
However, the path to modernizing public infrastructure is fraught with complexities. Engineers must navigate regulatory environments, budget constraints, and the need for public consensus. Moreover, the ethical implications of large-scale engineering projects require careful consideration to ensure sustainable and equitable solutions. This balance between innovation, practicality, and ethics is where professional engineers truly excel.
Collaboration is another crucial element. By working closely with government officials, community leaders, and the public, engineers help to ensure that projects not only meet technical specifications but also serve the broader community interests. This collaborative approach fosters transparency and trust, which are essential for the successful implementation of any public project.
At WSB, we understand the critical role that professional engineers play in public infrastructure. Our team of experts is dedicated to partnering with government agencies to deliver innovative, sustainable, and cost-effective solutions. Whether it’s revitalizing aging infrastructure or pioneering new projects, WSB is equipped to help navigate the complexities of modern engineering challenges. With our comprehensive services and commitment to excellence, we are here to support our partners in building a safer, more efficient, and sustainable future.
By leveraging our expertise, WSB not only contributes to the physical landscape but also to the well-being and progress of the communities we serve. Let us help you turn visionary plans into reality, ensuring that today’s infrastructure can meet tomorrow’s demands.
Jim is a registered Professional Engineer with over 20 years of experience in civil engineering, design development, and project management. As a civil site design engineer, Jim has worked in all phases of the design and construction process from schematic design, design development, permitting, to administering the bidding process, and construction administration.
October 15, 2024 By Kim Lindquist, Director of Community Planning & Economic Development, WSB
Industrial parks serve as vital engines for economic growth and development within local communities. By concentrating manufacturing and industrial activities within a designated area, cities and towns can better manage resources, isolate transportation impacts, and promote innovation. These industrial zones facilitate the clustering of businesses, which can lead to increased utility efficiency, reduced transportation costs, and the fostering of symbiotic relationships among companies. Moreover, industrial parks can attract additional investments, create employment opportunities, and stimulate local economies through increased demand for retail commercial services and housing.
Effective planning of industrial parks is crucial to maximize their benefits. City planners should conduct comprehensive feasibility studies to identify suitable locations, considering factors such as proximity to transportation hubs, availability of utilities, infrastructure capacity, and potential environmental impact. Zoning regulations need to be tailored to accommodate the specific requirements of industrial activities while ensuring the surrounding communities are protected from potential nuisances. Additionally, incorporating green spaces and sustainable practices can enhance the environmental and social appeal of these areas, making them more attractive to businesses, workers, and nearby neighbors.
Initiation and development of successful industrial parks requires a multi-faceted approach. Cities may consider offering incentives such as tax increment financing, abatements, or streamlined permitting processes to attract businesses. Collaborating with universities and vocational institutions can also drive innovation, attract start-up business prospects and provide a skilled workforce tailored to the needs of the industrial sector. Public-private partnerships can play a crucial role in financing and managing these projects, ensuring that both public interests and private sector expertise are leveraged effectively. Moreover, community engagement is essential to address any concerns and ensure that the development aligns with the broader goals of the city’s residents.
WSB staff can provide valuable assistance in the planning and development of industrial parks. Our team of experts brings a wealth of experience in community planning, economic development, and environmental sustainability. We offer comprehensive services, from initial feasibility studies and site selection to master planning and project management. By partnering with WSB, cities can ensure that their industrial park projects are executed efficiently, sustainably, and in alignment with their long-term economic and community goals. Our commitment to innovation and excellence ensures that we deliver tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of each city we work with.
Kim is a planning professional with over 30 years of experience overseeing a variety of complex planning projects. She has worked in high growth communities with developers and the public on entitlements for residential development and attracting business to the city.
