Summer 2017 Hometown Messenger

One place where time seemingly stands still is the mechanic's shop. Regardless of the year, oil must be changed; tires need to be rotated; vehicles break down. But even the Shakopee Public Works shop is moving with the times. Technology at work in the shop

Earlier this year, the department began using a new fleet management software, AssetWorks, that tracks repairs and maintenance service; alerts mechanics about upcoming service; and compiles invoices, memos and mechanics notes in one place. "Rather than digging through a file cabinet hoping to find records, a mechanic can now view a vehicle's repair history simply by using search functions," said Lead Mechanic Tom Larson. "It's a big-time saver and reduces the use of printers and paper that are a costly expense." In addition, the shop is also using a vehicle tracking program, called Network Fleet, which monitors city vehicle use. For example, the software alerts mechanics if a vehicle's check engine light is flashing so the mechanic can call the vehicle in for service before it becomes a bigger issue. The software also tracks vehicles, informing

GRASS ANDWEEDS Do not let grasses or weeds grow greater than 8 inches or go to seed. OVERHANGING TREES AND BUSHES Trim trees and bushes overhanging on public property (streets, alleys and sidewalks). Streets and alleys should have an overhead clearance of 15 feet; sidewalks 9 feet. LAWN MOWING Keep grass clippings and leaves out of the curb and gutter in the street. PET WASTE Immediately pick up pet waste on public or private land. Dispose in the trash or flush it down the toilet. Never put it in the storm drain. FIREWORKS Leave the fireworks displays to the professionals. When using legal fireworks, abide by the city noise ordinance. NOISE ORDINANCE Observe city quiet hours from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. on weekdays and 9 p.m. to 9 a.m. on weekends and holidays. WASTE CONTAINERS Remove containers from the street by 7 p.m. on collection day. Store in a garage or place on the side of a building, not visible from the street. Being a good neighbor

VEHICLES GET BRANDED City vehicle decals have recently been updated to feature the city logo. Previously, the vehicles only used text. The update is one small way the city is striving to build community pride and a stronger Shakopee brand.

supervisors where city equipment has been and how it's been used. For example, Public Works supervisors can track where a street sweeper is, how much time is spent on a given street, how fast the sweeper moves or idles and which direction it travels. All this information can create better tracking and greater efficiencies. "Managing a fleet is about more than changing oil," Larson said. "We want to use technology to ensure we get the most out of our equipment." For more information about the city's Fleet Management Division, visit www. ShakopeeMN.gov/publicworks.

Mechanics Joe Ostlie, left, and Tom Larson diagnose an issue with a police vehicle using its wireless communication technology. Vehicles have become so smart these days, mechanics need a variety of electronic tools to maintain and manage them.

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