Fall 2019 Hometown Messenger

Messenger Hometown

PARKS AND RECREATION

A Publication of the City of Shakopee | Fall 2019

AMasterVision Parks Master Plan lays out plans, goals for Shakopee’s parks, trails and open space

GIS upgrade improves city’s use of data On the Map

Storm drainage system is critical protection for flooding, water quality Stormwater 101

INSIDE: PARKS & RECREATION FALL ACTIVITIES BROCHURE PROGRAM REGISTRATION OPENS AUG. 27

A CITY FOR ALL SEASONS SUBMIT YOUR PHOTOS TO THE 2019 SHOW OFF SHAKOPEE PHOTO CONTEST!

PHOTO GUIDELINES Photos must have been taken in Shakopee in the past two years. Only digital images will be accepted. JUDGING A judging panel of city sta will evaluate the entries on subject matter, composition, clarity, lighting, artistry, technical excellence and overall impact. CASH PRIZES One winning photo will be selected from each seasonal category with an overall Grand Prize winner chosen from among the top seasonal pictures. The Grand Prize winner will receive $100; the remaining three category winners will receive $50 each.

HOW TO ENTER Visit www.ShakopeeMN.gov/showo shakopee for an entry form and full contest rules. All submissions become the property of the City of Shakopee and may be used in any city publication. ELIGIBILITY The contest is open to amateur and professional photographers who live, work or attend school in Shakopee. Limit three entries per photographer. CATEGORIES Photos will be accepted in four categories: Spring, Summer, Fall andWinter. The city has the right to reclassify photos if deemed appropriate.

CONTEST RUNS SEPT. 1-30 WWW.SHAKOPEEMN.GOV/SHOWOFFSHAKOPEE

Show Off Shak

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2019 Photo Contest

Messenger Hometown

News from the City of Shakopee | Fall 2019

CITY NEWSLETTER StormWater 101 Mayor's Message City Calendar Splash Pad Employee Garden Parks Master Plan #AsktheCity: Code Enforcement GIS/Mapping Upgrade Clean Up Day Public Safety Corner Chief's Notes Crime Prevention Calendar

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Flowing to the river The Upper Valley Drainage Ditch, which runs along Vierling Drive, is one of several storm drainage methods used to manage water runoff. Storm water ponds are another common way of managing storm water discharge. Storm drainage system manages water runoff to mitigate flooding, water pollution

When it rains, it pours. And all that water has to go somewhere. In Shakopee, surface water ultimately goes one place—the Minnesota River. But managing how it gets there is the responsibility of the city's storm drainage system. "When you develop land, you're altering the hydrology and the flow of surface water, so we need to design systems that mitigate the rate and flooding concerns," saidWater Resources- Environmental Engineer Kirby Templin. The City of Shakopee uses an extensive system of storm sewer, ponds and wetlands to manage surface water and protect against flooding. For example, yards must be graded to help move runoff to catch basins or street drains to avoid pooling. Typically, the water is then transported to a man-made storm water pond for collection.

STORMWATER 101 Surface water: Water that is visible on the surface like in a lake, stream or pond Ground water: Water that is underground in the soil Runoff: Surface water generated from precipitation or snow melt Stormwater: Runoff from precipitation or snow melt

Cover Photo: "Fall Colors (Lake O'Dowd)" is a 2018 Show Off Shakopee Photo Contest submission by Tiffany Grimm.

Ponds help protect against flooding by controlling the rate at which water discharges downstream. This can be especially important during large rain events when localized flooding can cause immediate impacts.

Continued on Page 4

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MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR

CITY CALENDAR

SEPT 2 Labor Day , City offices, Community Center closed. Garbage and recycling delayed one day all week. 8-Oct. 27 Free YardWaste Drop Off , 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Sundays, SMSC Organics Recycling Facility 21 Document Shred Event , 10 a.m.- Noon Police Department 27 Car Seat Clinic , Noon-2 p.m. Fire Station 1 28 Splash, Flash and Dash Triathlon, 9 a.m. Community Center 30 Show Off Shakopee photo deadline. OCT 5 Fall Fitness Sampler, 8-11 a.m. Community Center 7 Fire Department Open House , 5-8 p.m. Fire Station 1 18 Scott County Senior Expo , 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Twin Oaks Middle School in Prior Lake 19 Clean Up Day , 7:30-11:30 a.m. Public Works 25 Spooky Family Fun Night , 6-8 p.m., Community Center 31 Trick-or-Treat at City Hall , 3-4:30 p.m. City Hall NOV 1 Winter parking restrictions begin 11 Veterans Day, City Hall closed. Community Center open. 28 Thanksgiving , City Hall and

Hello, Shakopee! The mission of the City of Shakopee is to provide the opportunity to live, work, and play in a community with a proud past, promising future, and small-town atmosphere within a metropolitan setting. At City Council meetings, we talk a lot about those first two ideas—live and work—and rightfully so. But sometimes, that third concept— play—gets lost in the conversations about housing, public safety, road improvements and economic development. This month, the City Council will review the Parks, Trails and Recreation Master Plan. This plan lays out a vision for Shakopee's parks and trails, offering tangible ideas for our outdoor recreation

Mayor Bill Mars

spaces. From redefining Huber Park to building a partnership at Memorial Park, the Master Plan embraces what makes Shakopee unique and provides residents what they want: more spaces to play and connect with nature. Thank you to the many people who helped shape this plan—our consultant team, city staff,

steering committee, Planning Commission, Park and Recreation Advisory Board and, most importantly, the thousands of people who participated in the Envision Shakopee process. You told us how you like to play, and those comments led us to commission the Parks Master Plan. Learn more about Parks, Trails and Recreation Master Plan on page 6 or view a draft online at www.ShakopeeMN.gov/parkprojects. Bill Mars Mayor of Shakopee Email: wmars@ShakopeeMN.gov | Facebook: Bill Mars: Mayor of Shakopee

Community Center closed. Garbage and recycling delayed by one day. 29 Day after Thanksgiving , City Hall closed.

Residents look at concept boards at the Parks, Trails and Recreation Master Plan Open House Aug. 5.

DEC 3 2020 Public Budget and Levy Meeting , 7 p.m. City Hall

MAYOR Bill Mars ...................................................... wmars@ShakopeeMN.gov COUNCIL MEMBERS JodyBrennan .......................................... jbrennan@ShakopeeMN.gov Angelica Contreras ........................... acontreras@ShakopeeMN.gov Matt Lehman ......................................... MattLehmanSr@comcast.net Jay Whiting ............................................................... jaywhtng@aol.com CITY ADMINISTRATOR William Reynolds ............................... breynolds@ShakopeeMN.gov

CITY HALL 485 Gorman St., Shakopee, MN 55379

Phone .................................................................................... 952-233-9300 TTY ......................................................................................... 952-233-3837 Fax .......................................................................................... 952-233-3801 Email .............................................. administration@ShakopeeMN.gov Website .............................................................. www.ShakopeeMN.gov Find us

Comments or suggestions on the Hometown Messenger should be directed to the editor, Kristin Doran, at kdoran@ShakopeeMN.gov.

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HOW CAN I HELP YOU? Meet Terri Valiant, a records clerk in our City Clerk's Office. She splits her week between assisting visitors at the City Hall front desk and scanning documents for records management. Q: How long have you worked for the city? A: I started part-time at the Community Center in May 2001. In 2005, I began splitting my day between the Community Center and the city hall front desk. A year and a half ago, I became a full- time records clerk. Q: What do you like about working for the City of Shakopee? A: I like working with our residents and helping them get the answers they need, as well as the variety of different jobs that I do. I feel blessed to be able to work for the city I grew up in and raised my family in. It is great to see friends, family and neighbors come into City Hall, and I think it's nice for them to see a familiar face, too.

A SPLASHY OPEN FOR A COMMUNITY AMENITY The city recently celebrated the opening of the Lions Park Splash Pad. The splash pad features and water pump system were donated by Aquatix, a local water park equipment manufacturer, while the Shakopee Lions Club paid for the installation of the splash pad. Public Works crews have also been making upgrades to the restrooms at Lions Park, including a new roof and improved accessibility. The splash pad is open daily though Labor Day, Sept. 2.

T R I C K - O R - T R E A T @ C I T Y H A L L Bring the kids to Shakopee City Hall and Shakopee Police Department for a safe trick-or-treating experience from 3-4:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 31. Shakopee City Hall, 485 Gorman St. | 952-233-9300 | www.ShakopeeMN.gov | FREE EVENT!

Q: What's the best part of your job? A: Besides helping people, one of my

responsibilities is assisting with elections. That's one part of my job I really enjoy. It can be fast paced and challenging at times but also very rewarding.

NEWS & NOTES Submit your photos to the annual Show Off Shakopee photo contest

New employees join staff Several new employees have recently joined the City of Shakopee organization: • Alissa Frey, human resources manager • Saeed Kanwar, senior engineering technician

Shakopee is a city for all seasons, and we want to see your photos that show off our community in spring, summer, fall and winter.

Enter your photos to the annual Show Off Shakopee photo contest during September. You could win cash prizes and have your photos featured in a city publication and on display at City Hall.

Show Off Shak

• Eric Dircks, paid-on-call firefighter • Zak Hoffman, paid-on-call firefighter • Dann Kasallis, paid-on-call firefighter • Shane LaCoste, paid-on-call firefighter • Justen Riley, paid-on-call firefighter • Chuck Lowy, mechanic

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2019 Photo Contest

The photo contest is open to anyone who lives, works or attends school in Shakopee. For full contest rules and to submit photos, visit www.ShakopeeMN.gov/showoffshakopee.

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HOW YOU CAN HELP Protecting Minnesota's water quality requires a team effort of well-designed storm drainage systems and good practices by property owners. Here's what you can do: • Do not dump anything down a street drain or catch basin. It is illegal to emit anything other than storm water into the system. • Do not blow leaves and lawn clippings onto the street. Leaves and grass soak up nutrients that can cause algae. • Pick up after your dog. Pet feces carry nutrients harmful to the ecosystem. • Consider adopting a storm drain in your neighborhood and keep it free from leaves and debris. • Use appropriate amount of salt. Most driveways require less than

Graphic courtesy of City of Wilmington, NC Storm water Services

How storm water is managed can look different based on density and age of development, Templin explained. In rural areas, ditches and road culverts often help water flow to wetlands and streams on its way to the river. In higher density areas, you'll see more catch basins and underground storm pipes since there's less surface area to work with. Regardless of whether your street has curb and gutter, there's a designed drainage network that must be maintained to

handle the storm water runoff and mitigate issues, Templin said. A component of storm water management is volume reduction, which assists both with flood control and water quality. For example, infiltration basins are dry depressions designed to fill up during storm events but dry out within a few days. These pervious basins mitigate the flow of

a cup of salt to work effectively. Sweep up excess salt and sand.

Another unique factor is the quantity of water that flows from adjacent cities and townships. Surface water from Lake O'Dowd and Prior Lake flow through Shakopee via outlet channels, which

uses a system of culverts, pipes, wetlands and ditches to transport water to the Minnesota River. There are cost-share agreements with neighboring communities for the construction and maintenance of these systems. The city is responsible for administering federal and state storm water management requirements, most commonly by reviewing proposed development. The Public Works Department also inspects and maintains the city's storm

water while also filtering out pollutants from reaching our lakes and rivers. "In Minnesota, we have a lot of water resources. Keeping them clean and usable for different purposes is everyone's responsibility," Templin said. TOPOGRAPHY & SOIL Shakopee has several unique challenges due to its topography and soil conditions. The bluffs create

"We have a lot of water resources. Keeping them clean and usable for different purposes is everyone's responsibility." Kirby Templin Water Resources- Environmental Engineer

FLOODING FLASH (LOCALIZED) VS. LONG-TERM (REGIONAL)

After a large storm event, you may notice standing water in your neighborhood.

Smaller systems often see the first impact of excessive precipitation.

However, large-scale flooding events, like those that occur along the Minnesota River, can take days, weeks or even months to appear as it takes longer for water to flow through the system. Storm drainage systems are designed to manage both types of flooding events. Engineers use projections based on 2-, 10- and 100-year floods to design infrastructure that can withstand a variety of flow conditions.

drainage system for pond cleanouts, erosion or other maintenance issues. Street sweeping minimizes leaves, sand and salt residue from running into the storm system. To learn more about the city's storm drainage system, visit the city website at www.ShakopeeMN.gov/publicworks.

large elevation changes within a short distance. The city also has a variety of soil types, ranging from sandy, which allow high infiltration and less runoff in pervious areas, to clay, which does not infiltrate well. Other parts of the city have shallow bedrock, which requires blasting to create ponds or below-ground utilities.

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Flat rooftops often go mostly unused. That was the case at Shakopee City Hall—at least until this summer. In June, City Planner Liz Bushaw pitched the idea of planting a garden on the roof. "I am a big advocate for people being closer to their food systems, and there was plenty of space on the roof, so I thought it was a cool opportunity for city employees,” she said. With some help from Permit Coordinator Kelly Buska and Building Inspector Gia Eley, Bushaw filled a three-by-six-foot canvas planter with seeds and several sprouted plants. Growing at City Hall

“We’ve got a lot more than you might think we could have,” Bushaw said. “We’ve got cucumbers, herbs, basil. We had cilantro, a lot of tomatoes, beets, onions. Just a ton of stuff.” Staff members tend to the garden on their breaks. As fruit and vegetables spring from the small plot, city employees can pick them for use at home. With the success of this year’s garden, Bushaw plans to plant more next year. “Next year, my hope is that we’ll have enough to give to local food shelves,” she said.

Check out a video about the garden on the city's YouTube channel

Bushaw’s passion project is more than just an exercise; it’s a way to connect with what she describes as one of the most human experiences a person can have. “Putting something in the ground and really having no idea if it’s going to work or not is kind of terrifying,” she said. “But it is so rewarding.” Right, stretching about 15 feet from the planter are two long vines. Both have begun producing fruit: pumpkins and watermelon. “I’m pretty shocked. They’ve been doing really well,” Bushaw said.

"I am a big advocate for people being closer to their food systems, and there was plenty of space on the roof, so I thought it was a cool opportunity for city employees." Liz Bushaw City Planner

Tomatoes ripen on the vine on the first-floor roof at City Hall.

NEWS & NOTES Get to the great Minnesota get-together with MVTA Beat the traffic and skip parking fees by taking an express shuttle to the State Fair from the Marschall Road Transit Station. Service is available aboard Minnesota Valley Transit Authority (MVTA) buses on weekends and Labor Day only. Outgoing buses run hourly from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. and return shuttles depart hourly between noon to midnight. Payment is $6. Exact change is required. Discount round-trip tickets can be purchased online for $5. Children 4 and under ride for free.

The Minnesota State Fair runs Aug. 22-Sept. 2. Visit the MVTA website at www.mvta.com for more information. Scott County Senior Expo moves to Prior Lake Oct. 18 Seniors are invited to attend the annual Scott County Senior Expo Friday, Oct. 18 at its new location, Twin Oaks Middle School in Prior Lake. The guest speaker is Fox 9 Chief Meteorologist Ian Leonard. Scott County Historical Society will also be presenting on prohibition in Scott County. The event runs from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. and features continental breakfast, vendor

exhibits, entertainment, lunch, prizes and health screenings. Admission is $15. Register online at www.ShakopeeMN.gov/ registration by Oct. 11. Seniors visit vendor booths at the 2018 Scott County Senior Expo.

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PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT Park Plan provides master vision for city's parks, trails and recreation programming

MEMORIAL PARK Coordination between Shakopee, Three Rivers Park District and Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community will shape the future of Memorial Park. A planned cultural trail linking the past of Shakopee to the future would bridge cultural divides by offering a glimpse into the lives of the region's past inhabitants, including both early European settlers and Native Americans. Other priorities include expanding access to green space, a natural playground and access to the river at a kayak boat landing. HUBER PARK

Throughout the Envision Shakopee process, one message was clear: You want community spaces that embrace the city's natural spaces and riverfront while celebrating opportunities for recreation for all. The city's Parks, Trails and Recreation Master Plan lays out the city's future vision for its parks and trails, providing city leaders a road map for park development and redevelopment. Over the past year, city staff have been working with its consultant team and a 15-member Parks, Trails, Open Space and Recreation steering committee to develop a park plan that reflects the community's overall desires. The key themes of the plan include: • Riverfront connections • Public/private partnerships • New and innovative facilities • Premium athletics • Restoration and expansion of natural areas • Trail and sidewalk connections • Park accessibility and programming In August, the city unveiled its Master Plan draft for public comment. The City Council is expected to review the plan at its Aug. 20 meeting. To view the plan draft, visit the city website at www.ShakopeeMN.gov/parkprojects.

Huber Park is an anchor for downtown Shakopee, but many feel it is time for an update. A new destination playground is planned to give children a one- of-a-kind experience. A dog park and kayak launch are envisioned to bring more activity to the eastern portion of the park. Improvements to the amphitheater, expanded green space under Highway 101 and a Veterans and Conflict Memorial

are planned at the site. A new rock retaining wall along the river, an enhanced natural stream and storm water management pond will help reduce the impacts of increased flooding events. WINDERMERE

Windermere Park will sit on one of Shakopee’s highest points and offer a unique experience for all. The plan calls for a children’s park designed around the natural landscape and incorporate a more explorative play area concept. Development along the bluff would create a natural trail system for biking, hiking or walking. Relocation of Shakopee’s archery range and an additional dog park for the western side of Shakopee are also planned on this site. All of this will be connected by a green trail system throughout the bluff area. VIERLING GREENWAY Re-envisioning of the current Upper Valley Drainage Way Trail into a more scenic and naturalized trail lined with native Minnesota flora and trees with bike

repair and stations along the corridor. Additionally, street crossing improvements are envisioned to be made throughout the corridor. QUARRY LAKE

ENVISION SHAKOPEE BIG IDEAS • Create a Fresh Impression • Rediscover the River • Connect People to Nature • Knit the Community Together • Foster Civic Life in Civic Spaces • Celebrate Big Fun

The planned development of this park will include a 4-mile mountain bike course, an obstacle course children’s playground, a kayak boat launch, swimming beach and improved boat launch ramp. All of this would be accessible by a planned pedestrian bridge across Highway 169 and a new trail along 12th Avenue.

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NEWS & NOTES

The Shakopee City Council is responsible for adopting city ordinances that act as laws for municipalities. These ordinances are codified in the official City Code. WHO ENFORCES CITY CODE? The Shakopee Police Department and city Building Official are responsible for enforcing city code. The city historically has used a complaint-based system. In 2018, the city hired a full-time code compliance specialist to respond more proactively to code violations. WHAT HAPPENS WHEN THE CITY RECEIVES A CODE VIOLATION COMPLAINT? When the city receives a complaint, our first step is to look at the property in question to determine if a violation is occurring. We then document the violation with photos and identify who is responsible. Our next step is to issue a notice or warning with a reasonable amount of time to address the concern. DOES THE CITY ISSUE FINES? Most property owners bring the property into compliance. For those who do not make progress toward compliance, the city may issue a citation, which sends the violation into the court system. It does not ensure the property will be brought into compliance. CAN I REPORT A COMPLAINT ANONYMOUSLY? No. The city does not accept anonymous complaints. WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON ORDINANCE VIOLATIONS? In 2018, the city responded to 531 commercial and residential ordinance complaints. Common violations include long grass and weeds, exterior storage, encroachment and animal complaints. Visit www.ShakopeeMN.gov/ codeenforcement for answers to the most common ordinance questions. To report a code violation, call 952-233- 9400 or report a complaint via the city website at www.ShakopeeMN.gov/ reportproblem. #AsktheCity CODE ENFORCEMENT

Envision Shakopee wins state planning award The American Planning Association Minnesota Chapter selected the City of Shakopee’s Envision Shakopee 2040 Comprehensive Plan as the winner of its 2019 Planning in Context Award.

The Planning in Context Award recognizes plans that go above and beyond in the level of sensitivity of their surroundings, as well as the ability to embrace and take advantage of past, present or predicted aspects. Envision Shakopee was a concerted effort between the city, consultants and community to create a clear vision and blueprint for city planning over the next 20 years. The planning process included significant community engagement to ensure the final plan represented the community's aspirations. The document itself also demonstrates

"Our goal was to create an inclusive, customer-oriented plan that represents our community. While it’s an honor to have those efforts recognized, we are most pleased with how the final product accomplishes all our goals and will be an essential tool in future city decision-making."

a significant shift in tone, structure and visual appeal from the organization’s previous plans. The city expresses its gratitude to consultants MKSK, HR&A and Toole Design Group, as well as the Shakopee City Council, Planning Commission and more than 3,000 community participants. The city is currently in the process of having the 2040 Comprehensive Plan approved by the Metropolitan Council. City receives $250,000 grant for Ridge Creek Park The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has awarded the city a $250,000 matching grant for the development of Ridge Creek Park in east Shakopee. The proposed park includes the development of two outlots in the Lennar development at Ridge Creek as a passive park that incorporates the existing wetlands and natural features while completing important trail connections. Development of the park is planned for 2020. Learn more at www.ShakopeeMN.gov/ parkprojects. Shakopee aims to become a GreenStep city In August, the City Council authorized city staff to participate in the Minnesota GreenStep Cities program. Managed by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, GreenStep Cities is a voluntary challenge, assistance and recognition program to help communities in Minnesota achieve sustainability and quality of life goals. Michael Kerski Director of Planning and Development

More than 125 cities across Minnesota have signed onto the program, including Jordan, Edina, Eden Prairie, Chanhassen and Bloomington. The program centers around five steps, which each community can reach by

implementing of a variety of best practices. These voluntary actions are tailored to Minnesota Cities and focus on cost savings, energy use reduction and encourage civic innovation. This free, non-binding program will give Shakopee access to resources to help reduce its carbon footprint, cut energy use and save residents money. Membership in the program also will give the city an opportunity to apply for competitive special funding and grants. Learn more at greenstep.pca.state.mn.us.

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This summer, the city upgraded its geographic information system (GIS) infrastructure to give the city expanded mapping capabilities and provide residents more access to public data. The ESRI software upgrade highlights a growing way local governments are using mapping systems to store information about a specific geographic place or point. It allows staff to enter information about a location—a tree, fire hydrant, park, street utility—and later recall that data via a digital map. MAP IT City upgrades GIS infrastructure to improve public access to information PUBLIC WORKS

The infrastructure upgrade expanded the number of city licenses so more staff can update data and access the software. Residents will notice the upgrade through additional map data and maps. The city already has a variety of maps available, including current development, its five-year capital improvement plan and precinct locations. The expansion will allow the city to build more map types to increase community engagement and

"It's an easier way to get answers to questions in a visual format," GIS

Coordinator Ryan Bormann said. "Now, you can find more information in just a couple clicks."

Improved access will allow city leaders to make better decisions. For example, engineers can quickly access information to determine when the last time a specific street was reconstructed, or the fire chief can analyze how many residents are within a specified distance of a potential new fire station. Another benefit of mapping systems is staff can input

transparency. For example, the city is considering building a new Night to Unite registration map in 2020 so block parties are mapped as they are registered. A new interactive parks and trails map is also expected to launch in the coming weeks. "These improvements are going to make our work here more efficient and effective and improve our overall customer service," Bormann said.

"These improvements are going to make our work here more efficient and effective and improve our overall customer service." Ryan Bormann GIS Coordinator

Engineering interns Oscar Weber and Lisa Sholtz take GPS coordinates at Quarry Lake Park where they are measuring water levels.

"Residents used to have to come down to city hall for everything, but now, using the web applications we're putting online, they can answer questions from the comfort of home."

data out in the field. Using GPS coordinates, employees can store data about a location, such as a tree or elevation point. This summer, Engineering interns have been using the data to measure water levels at Quarry Lake Park.

SEE OUR MAPS Visit the city website at www.ShakopeeMN.gov/maps to see a variety of maps and information available about the city.

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City introduces fall Clean Up Day Event will run 7:30-11:30 a.m. Oct. 19 at Public Works Due to popular demand, the City of Shakopee is introducing a new fall Clean Up Day event Saturday, Oct. 19. Similar to the annual spring Clean Up Day, the drop-off recycling event allows residents to discard old appliances, electronics, yard waste, tires, car batteries, scrap metal and more. Residents will be charged a flat fee (cash or check) based. Additional fees apply as noted on the city website.

IF YOU GO... WHAT: Fall Clean Up Day WHO: Residents of Shakopee, Jackson Township and Louisville Township. WHEN: 7:30-11:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 19 WHERE: Public Works Yard, 400 Gorman St. COST: See website for more information. MORE INFO: www. ShakopeeMN.gov/ cleanupday

Clean Up Day is for residents of Shakopee, Jackson Township and Louisville Township (IDs required) and is funded in part through grants received from Scott County and Shakopee's Recycling Rebate Program. Updates on accepted items will be posted on the city website at www.ShakopeeMN.gov/cleanupday.

PROJECT SPOTLIGHT

Falling into autumn Tips and reminders for preparing your property for fall and winter TREE TRIMMING • Trim your trees in the fall or have an arborist help. You can find tree trimming advice from the University of Minnesota Extension Office. WEED CONTROL • If you use lawn chemicals, fall is the best time to spray for weed control. Fall is also a great time to fertilize your yard. Be sure to use a phosphorus-free fertilizer whenever possible. STREET SWEEPING • City crews will be doing our annual fall street sweeping. Residents are reminded it's against city code to blow grass or leaves on the street. • Clear out catch basins of leaves and garbage and consider adopting your neighborhood storm drain. Never put salt (or anything) in drains. YARDWASTE • Dispose of your yard waste for free at the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community's Organics Recycling Facility from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sundays in September and October. SNOWPLOWING • Install reflective markers for snow plows before the ground freezes. You can purchase these at your local hardware store. Fall is also a good time to inspect your mailboxes and posts. • Test snowblowers, check fluids, have shovels and salt purchased and ready for the season. As always, if you have a maintenance question or request for street, park or utility maintenance, call Public Works at 952-233-9550 or email publicworks@ ShakopeeMN.gov.

LEAVITTWOODS LANE

WOOD DUCKTRAIL

MAPLETRAIL

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This fall, the city plans to reconstruct Wood Duck Trail between Hohenstein Court and Maple Trail. The project was advanced from the 2022 capital improvement plan after the road failed beyond repair earlier this year. Wood Duck Trail 42

IMPROVEMENTS INCLUDE: • Reconstruction of street • Installation of drain tile TIMELINE: August-November 2019

TRAFFIC IMPACT: Wood Duck Trail will be closed to through traffic during construction COST: The estimated $363,100 project will be funded through special assessments, the capital improvement fund and storm drainage fund.

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PUBLIC SAFETY CORNER

Police Department receives grant for child safety seats This summer, the Shakopee Police Department received a $1,500 grant from Minnesota Valley Electric Cooperative's Operation Round-Up to expand its Child Passenger Safety program to provide car seats to families in need.

CAR SEAT SAFETY CLINIC WHAT: A certified car seat practitioner will check your child's car seat to ensure it meets safety standards. WHEN: Noon-2 p.m. Friday, Sept. 27 WHERE: Shakopee Fire Station 1, 2700 Vierling Drive E. COST: Free APPOINTMENTS ONLY: To schedule a 30-minute

The grant will purchase approximately 15 convertible car seats to be available to officers following emergencies, as well as distributed to families in need at community events like Project Community Connect and through Shakopee Community Assistance. Over the past several years, Program Coordinator

Officer Michelle Schmidt has seen a large increase in the number of families who cannot afford car seats, are using expired or damaged seats or have an immediate

Source: Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition, www.nfpa.org

Fire sprinklers save lives, property The Minnesota State Fire Marshal’s office recently released statistics from 2004- 18 noting Shakopee is among the top 20 Minnesota cities where fire sprinkler activations have made a positive impact by reducing damage and loss due to a fire. Many years ago, the City of Shakopee chose to adopt more stringent fire sprinkler requirements on new buildings and existing buildings where there is a change of occupancy. These requirements mean that buildings over 2,000 square feet must be provided with fire sprinklers. Base code only requires buildings over 12,000 square feet to be provided with fire sprinklers. Fire sprinklers are an important part of overall fire protection. They can provide early detection and begin fire suppression before the fire department is notified. The early application of water on a fire can help limit a fire’s growth. This can help minimize property damage and keep the fire small enough to help those inside the building escape. DID YOU KNOW? Unlike in the movies, not all building fire sprinklers operate at the same time. Each sprinkler head is designed to operate at a specific temperature, with the most common heads operating at 155ºF.

need for a car seat following a car accident or fire. The car seat will be accompanied with additional safety information to ensure parents are using the seats properly. Learn more about the department's Child Passenger Safety program, visit www.ShakopeeMN.gov/police.

appointment, contact Officer

Schmidt at 952-233- 9400 or mschmidt@ ShakopeeMN.gov.

EVERYONE HAS A HAND IN SAFETY In July, Shakopee Police Department was invited to River Valley Montessori & Child Care's Community Helpers week to chat about safety. The child care center presented the department with flag art using the kids' fingerprints to make up the blue line. The art is on display at the police department.

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KIDSACTIVITIES | FIRETRUCKTOURS | SPRAYAFIREHOUSE BOUNCEHOUSE | LIL' FIREFIGHTERTRAININGSCENARIO

CHIEF’S NOTES

IN HONOR OF MAXWERMERSKIRCHEN On Sept. 30, 1959, 28-year-old Shakopee Firefighter Max Wermerskirchen gave his life trying to save a burning building in downtown Shakopee. Max was doing a

job that many firefighters did before him and many have done since; it’s what they signed up to do. Unfortunately, for Max and his family, his life was

Shakopee Fire Department OPENHOUSE

cut short that fateful night. Every year in September, the Fire

Max Wermerskirchen

Department, city leaders and Max’s family gather around his grave site to remember him, pray for him and his family and pray

for the safety of all our firefighters. In doing so, firefighters are reminded of the sacrifice he gave and how important it is for them to learn not only from that incident, but from all other incidents and training opportunities they have before them. After the memorial service, Max’s

Monday, Oct. 7 5-8 p.m. Shakopee Fire Station 1, 2700 Vierling Drive E.

Shakopee Fire Chief Rick Coleman

NEWS & NOTES

family is invited to join the Fire Department for fellowship and a meal at the fire station. This year, we also have the privilege to honor Max and his family at an annual statewide memorial service Sunday, Sept. 29. Every year, hundreds of Minnesotans, including families of firefighters who died in the line of duty, firefighters from around the state, community leaders and the public gather at the Minnesota Fallen Firefighter Memorial in St. Paul to remember those firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice. We encourage you to join us. For more information and to register for this free event, please visit www. mnfireservicefoundation.org/memorial.

Fire Department receives grant for gas monitors The Shakopee Fire Department recently received a $2,000 grant from CenterPoint Energy to purchase four wireless gas monitors. The monitors provide detection and monitoring of oxygen, combustibles and toxic gases (e.g., carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, hydrogen cyanide). By delivering real-time readings and alarm status, the monitors will allow firefighters to identify dangerous gases before they become deadly.

Annual Shakopee firefighters dance is Oct. 4 The 136th annual Shakopee firefighters dance will feature the band, Audio Circus, Friday, Oct. 4 at Turtle's Social Centre, 112 Lewis St. S. Doors open at 8 p.m. with music starting at 9 p.m. There is an $8 cover charge at the door. Raffle includes cash prizes, Toro snowblower and more. The dance is an annual fundraiser of the Shakopee Fire Department Relief Association.

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PLAY BALL AT NIGHT TO UNITE Ninety-five neighborhood block parties gathered Aug. 6 to celebrate Night to Unite with food, games, visits by Shakopee Police, Fire and Public Works and much more. Visit the Police Department Facebook page to vote on your favorite Night to Unite photo contest entries.

In early May 1938, the Riviera Supper Club opened. August V. Krueger and Dallas F. Capesius leased the Riverside Park pavilion from the Fair Board and converted it into the club. Riverside Park is the current location of the Archery Range and Boat Launch, near the Minnesota River. The Riviera, known for its food, liquor and gambling, was a popular place to visit. After a harsh winter and spring flooding, the Riviera was remodeled and scheduled for a grand reopening in spring of 1952. Unfortunately, on the morning of May 10, the Riviera caught fire at approximately 4 a.m. When A LOOK BACK

FRIDAY NIGHT WATER FIGHTS Shakopee Fire Department teams took second and third place at the department's annual water fights contest Aug. 2 in downtown Shakopee.

firefighters arrived at the scene, the fire was out of control, and the Riviera, along with an adjacent 4-H Club building, was destroyed. The cause of the fire was blamed on faulty wires from the recent flooding. Photos courtesy Shakopee Heritage Society

12 Hometown Messenger

Upcoming Crime Prevention Events For more information, contact the Crime Prevention Office at 952-233-9441 or visit www.ShakopeeMN.gov/crimeprevention

Be cool on your way back to school As students head back to school this fall, the Shakopee Police Department and National Safety Council remind everyone to practice these safety tips: PEDESTRIANS & BICYCLISTS • Cross streets at crosswalks or • Look left-right-left before crossing any street. • Make eye contact with drivers before crossing. • Stand at least six feet behind the curb when waiting to board a bus. • Learn how to use the flashing light crosswalks on 17th Avenue. DRIVERS • Stop for pedestrians in crosswalk. Never pass a car waiting for pedestrians. • Don't block the crosswalk when stopped at a red light or waiting to make a turn. • Slow down for • Never pass a bus from behind – or from either direction if you’re on an undivided road – if it is stopped to load or unload children. • If a bus' yellow or red lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended, traffic must stop. • Be extra vigilant in school zones and residential neighborhoods where kids may be waiting at bus stops. EVERYONE • Be alert and dump distractions. Whether you're walking, biking or driving, put down the phone and pay attention. intersections. Do not cross in the middle of a street. school zones. Use extra caution when in the vicinity of a school.

SAFE AND SOBER Shakopee Police teams up with

SEPTEMBER

Shakopee Crime Prevention Inc. and two local taxi companies to offer free rides from local bars during some of the most popular drinking nights of the year. Vouchers will be available on the police department’s website and Facebook/ Twitter. When: 9:30 p.m.-2:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 26 Where: Coupons available at www. ShakopeeMN.gov/crimeprevention Cost: FREE WINTER COAT DRIVE Bring your gently used or new coat to the Police Department between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Coats will be donated to families in need during our Shop with a Cop event in December. The donation box is located in the department lobby and accessible Monday through Friday. When: Nov. 4-Dec. 6 Where: Police Department, 475 Gorman St. SAFE AND SOBER Shakopee Police teams up with Shakopee Crime Prevention Inc. and two local taxi companies to offer free rides from local bars during some of the most popular drinking nights of the year. Vouchers will be available on the police department’s website and Facebook/ Twitter. When: 9:30 p.m.-2:30 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 27 Where: Coupons available at www. ShakopeeMN.gov/crimeprevention Cost: FREE NOVEMBER

TWEET-A-LONG Community members are invited to follow along on a “virtual ride-along” via Twitter, as the Shakopee crime prevention specialist rides with an officer and tweets out calls. When: 4 p.m.-midnight Friday, Sept. 7 Where: www.twitter.com/ShakopeePD LUNCH AND LEARNWITH THE POLICE This is an opportunity for seniors (55+) to learn more about the Shakopee Police Department and law enforcement. Lunch is provided by Farmers Insurance/Tim Whitcomb of Shakopee. When: 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 17 Where: Community Center, Community Room, 1255 Fuller St. Cost: FREE; Registration required. RSVP Join Shred Right and the Shakopee Police Department for a shred event to discard personal files. Bring up two grocery bags or banker file boxes. When: 10 a.m.-Noon Saturday, Sept. 21 Where: Police Department Parking Lot, 475 Gorman St. Cost: FREE COFFEE WITH A COP Community members are invited to share a cup of java with a police officer and ask questions in an informal setting. Scott County Sheriff's Office will also attend. When: 8-10:30 a.m. Friday, Oct. 4 Where: Caribou Coffee, 1361 Heather St. Cost: FREE OCTOBER with Carla at 952-233-9516 PERSONAL DOCUMENT SHREDDING EVENT

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Senior Expo Active Adults Scott County Friday, October 18 ~ 8 am-1 pm

Twin Oaks Middle School 15860 Fish Point Road SE Prior Lake, MN Fee: $15

New Location!!

Topic: Prohibition in Scott County

Guest Speaker Ian Leonard Chief Meteorologist - Fox 9

Schedule of Events Continental Breakfast

Vendor Exhibits Entertainment Lunch Prize Drawings Health Screenings

To Register www.shakopeemn.gov/registration Shakopee Community Center 1255 Fuller Street Shakopee, MN Registration deadline: Oct. 11

More Information Email: cmadsen@co.scott.mn.us (952)496-8169

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Kids triathlon Saturday, Sept. 28 | Check in: 8:15-8:45 a.m. | Race start: 9 a.m. | Community Center Gym Ages 6-9 | Fee: $20 | Register online program #: YPSE 928 | Deadline: Friday, Sept. 13