Shakopee Snapshot: Winter 2025

SHAKOPEE SNAPSHOT A LENS ON SHAKOPEE LIVING

WINTER 2025-26

Igniting Growth SAFER grant paves way for 12 new firefighters Shakopee Shines Find holiday displays with our online map Avoid the Tow How to park smart this winter

INSIDE: PARKS & RECREATION WINTER ACTIVITIES BROCHURE PROGRAM REGISTRATION OPENS TUESDAY, NOV. 25

SHOW OFF SHAKOPEE PHOTO CONTEST

2025

Congratulations to our 2025 winners!

Budding Photographer: Lucyana Gillson

Golden Hour: Kathleen Borka

Grand Prize: Jane Velde

Uniquely Shakopee: Christopher Straub

Architecture: Keoponha Ny

Fun in the Sun: Bill Schleper

GRAND PRIZE: $100 | CATEGORY WINNERS 5 : $50

SHAKOPEE SNAPSHOT A LENS ON SHAKOPEE LIVING

WINTER 2025–26

CITY NEWSLETTER Igniting Growth. . . . . . . . ......... 3 City Calendar . . . . . . . . . .......... 4 In Lehman’s Terms . . . . . . . ....... 4 Roundabout Planned. . . . . . ...... 5 News & Notes . . . . . . . . . .......... 5 Ask the City. . . . . . . . . . ........... 6 Parks & Recreation. . . . . . . ....... 7 Development News. . . . . . ....... 8 Public Works. . . . . . . . ........ 9–11 Public Safety. . . . . . . ........ 12–13 Chief's Notes. . . . . . . . . .......... 13 Cover Photo: Shakopee Firefighter Todd Nellermoe shows young visitors to the Annual Fire Department Open House how to spray a fire hose. The Shakopee Snapshot is produced four times a year by the City of Shakopee. Editor: Amanda Lillie Design/Layout: Deb Noble Contributing Writers: Ryan Piotraschke, Amber Cunningham, Barb Kraemer, Bill Egan, Stephanie Janke, Joe Simon, Alex Jordan © Copyright 2025. City of Shakopee. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored, or transmitted in any form or by any means without the written permission of the publisher. Printed in the USA.

Captain Rob Indrebo (right) gives feedback to Firefighter Dominick Schleper during an emergency medical services training.

Igniting Growth SAFER grant paves way for 12 added firefighters When a fire breaks out or a medical emergency strikes, mere seconds can save a life. Thanks to a $2.6 million federal grant, the City of Shakopee is taking a major step forward in ensuring those seconds count. This fall, the City was awarded funding through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Staffing for Ade quate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant. This highly competitive national program is designed to help fire depart ments hire additional full-time personnel. The grant will fund 12 additional full-time firefighter positions over the next three years, allowing the Shakopee Fire Depart ment to grow alongside the community it serves. “This is a transformational moment for our Fire Department and for public safety in Shakopee,” said City Administrator Bill Reyn olds. “The City has experienced tremendous growth over the

What is the SAFER Grant?

FEMA’s Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) program provides funding to help local fire departments hire and retain firefighters, ensuring adequate protection and improved response times in growing communities. Highlights: ■ $2.6 million FEMA SAFER Grant ■ 12 additional full-time firefighters: 3 battalion chiefs, 3 captains, 6 firefighters ■ Full-time staffing at Fire Station 2

FIND US ONLINE AT: ShakopeeMN.gov

SIGN UP FOR NEWS AND UPDATES AT: ShakopeeMN.gov/subscribe

Continued on page 6

Winter 2025–26 3

IN LEHMAN’S TERMS A message from the Mayor of Shakopee Hello, Shakopee! Here we are again, staring down another Minnesota winter. Some love it and some hate it, but ready or not, it’s coming. As the snow starts to fly, I want to remind everyone about a few important things that help keep our City services running smoothly when the temperatures drop.

CITY CALENDAR

NOVEMBER 25 Program Registration: 6 a.m. online at ShakopeeMN.gov/ registration , winter Parks and Rec program registration begins. 27 Thanksgiving: City offices and Community Center closed. Garbage and recycling delayed by one day. 28 Day After Thanksgiving: City offices closed, Community Center open 8 a.m.–8 p.m. DECEMBER 2 City Budget Hearing: 7 p.m.,

Mayor Matt Lehman

First, winter parking restrictions are now in effect as of November 1. That means no parking on City streets overnight or after a snowfall until the roads are cleared. I get that it’s inconvenient at times, but keeping cars off the streets helps our plow drivers clear snow faster and safer, saving everyone time and tax dollars. For a full overview of winter parking regulations, visit ShakopeeMN.gov/winterparking . While you’re out with your shovels or snowblowers, take a minute to clear around any fire hydrants near your property. It might not seem like a big deal, but in an emergency, every second counts. A few extra minutes of your time can make a big difference for our firefighters and your neighbors. If you dig one out, send a photo and your address to myself or another council member. We’d love to recognize you with a City pin for lending a hand. Inside your home, take a quick look at those space heaters. I mention this every year because it’s important: don’t plug them into power strips. Those things overheat and can start fires. Always plug space heaters directly into a wall outlet, and never leave them running unattended. As always, I encourage you to get out and enjoy our winter activities. It may be chilly, but if you bundle up there’s still plenty to do around town. Check out the City calendar and Parks and Rec listings at ShakopeeMN.gov/registration for information on all of the winter fun the City has planned. Whether you’re lacing up your skates or counting down the days until the Egg Hunt and Candy Grab this spring, please respect Old Man Winter and take it slow on the roads, lend a hand to your neighbors, and stay safe. Merry Christmas, Season’s Greetings, and Happy New Year to all! Matt Lehman Mayor of Shakopee mlehman@ShakopeeMN.gov

City Hall, City Council will meet to determine the final 2026 budget, open to the public. Downtown Shakopee, hosted by the Shakopee Chamber and Visitors Bureau. 13 Santa’s Pool Party: 10 a.m. to noon, Community Center, registration required. 24 Christmas Eve: City offices and Community Center closed. 25 Christmas Day: City offices and Community Center closed. Garbage and recycling delayed by one day. 31 New Year’s Eve: City offices 6 Holiday Fest: 1–5 p.m. in

closed. Community Center hours TBD, please check City website. Late‘25–Early‘26 Outdoor skating rinks open: Weather permitting. JANUARY 1 New Year’s Day: City offices and Community Center closed. Garbage and recycling delayed by one day. 9 Free Trivia Night: 6:30-8:30 p.m., Community Center, registration required. 1–31 Boards and Commissions applications accepted. 10 January Fitness Open House:

8–11 a.m., Community Center, free, no registration necessary. 16–17 Pop-Up Putt & Play: Multiple sessions, Community Center, registration required. 19 Martin Luther King Jr. Day: City offices closed.

CONTACT US MAYOR Matt Lehman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...................... mlehman@ShakopeeMN.gov COUNCIL MEMBERS Angelica Contreras. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ................... acontreras@ShakopeeMN.gov Jim DuLaney. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ....................... jdulaney@ShakopeeMN.gov Jesse Lara. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ............................ jlara@ShakopeeMN.gov 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 email: administration@ShakopeeMN.gov | Website: ShakopeeMN.gov

Community Center remains open. Garbage and recycling schedule as normal. FEBRUARY 16 President’s Day: City offices

closed. Community Center remains open. Garbage and recycling schedule as normal.

21 Flannels & Flapjacks:

9–10:30 a.m., Community Center, registration required.

27 Free Family Bingo Night:

6-8 p.m., Community Center, registration required.

Find the latest city calendar at ShakopeeMN.gov/calendar .

4 Shakopee Snapshot

NEW EMPLOYEES JOIN CITY STAFF Join us in welcoming these new employees to the City of Shakopee: ■ Matthew Thomas , Building Inspector ■ Taylor Dzierzak , Fire Inspector ■ Logen Mack , Police Officer NEWS & NOTES How Can I Help You? Meet Tammy Amundson, the Front Desk Receptionist for the Shakopee Police Department. Q: What do you do for the City? A: I work the front desk at the Police Department. I mainly greet and help the public with inquiries like data requests, applying for gun permits, impounded vehicle releases, and contacting dispatch if a resident needs to report an issue. I also support internal staff and do other behind the-scenes work at the police station. Q: What do you enjoy about working for the City? A: The job is never boring. There is always something happening around the City, someone that I can assist, or a new task to take on. I am constantly learning new things every day. The work environment is also something I enjoy. Everyone, residents and co-workers, are very friendly and supportive. Q: What’s the best part of your job? A: The work I do for the Police Department is always interesting and rewarding! One of the best parts of the job is interacting daily with both residents and officers. These daily interactions make it nice to always know what is going on in and around the community, and allow me to stay engaged with my work.

Roundabout planned for Old Carriage Court/Road intersection Construction is planned for 2026 An aerial image shows the intersection of Old Carriage Court and Old Carriage Road, where a roundabout will be constructed in 2026.

spikes during peak periods like weekday afternoons and the weekend lunch hour, along with steady traffic throughout the remainder of the day. The proposed round about will be able to accommodate the high traffic peaks along with lower traffic periods, decreasing idling and vehicle delays. Additionally, the roundabout will improve safety by reducing vehicle speeds and con flict points. Improved access will be pro vided, allowing U-turn movements that are safer and easier to access and exit the devel opment area. Throughout summer 2025, the City worked with business owners in the construction area to identify the most logical way to construct the improvements while still providing public access to retail areas. Details of the construc tion mitigation plan will be presented to the public at a community meeting this spring with the date yet to be determined. To stay up to date on the latest news and infor mation on this project, visit ShakopeeMN. gov/oldcarriage .

Changes are coming in 2026 to the intersec tion of Old Carriage Road and Old Carriage Court in the Southbridge development. In recent years, increased vehicle traffic in this bustling area has caused safety and traffic flow issues. The City of Shakopee conducted a study in 2024 to evaluate options for possi ble road improvements and has developed a construction plan based on the study results. The planned improvements include: ■ Constructing a hybrid roundabout at the intersection of Old Carriage Road and Old Carriage Court (combination of single and multi-lane based on traffic need) ■ Adding a traffic signal at the intersection of Old Carriage Court and the Walmart entrance, providing improved access for the redevelopment area ■ Modifying access along Old Carriage Court and Old Carriage Road to reduce vehicle conflicts WHY A ROUNDABOUT? The intersection of Old Carriage Court and Old Carriage Road experiences high traffic

Winter 2025–26 5

Continued from page 3

in emergency call volume. As new neighbor hoods, businesses, and entertainment destina tions continue to emerge, so does the demand for around-the-clock emergency coverage. The staffing plan for the 12 new positions will add three battalion chiefs, three captains, and six firefighters. These positions will support the Fire Department’s initiatives to strengthen supervision, improve on-scene coordination, and expand overall response capacity. INVESTING IN THE FUTURE While FEMA funding covers the majority of salary and benefit costs for three years, the City will contribute a portion each year: 25% in years one and two, and 65% in year three. By year four, the City will assume full funding for the positions, ensuring the department’s growth is financially sustainable long-term. “The SAFER Grant allows us to plan responsibly,” said Simon. “It bridges the gap between where we are and where we need to be, without put ting immediate strain on the City’s budget.” Beyond faster response times, the expanded staffing will bring a ripple effect of benefits to the community: improved firefighter safety, reduced property loss, stronger emergency medical response, and greater readiness for large or multiple incidents. “This investment is really about people: our firefighters, our residents, and our businesses,” said Reynolds. “It ensures that as Shakopee grows, our ability to protect it grows as well.” The City is in the process of hiring for the new positions, with onboarding and train ing expected to begin in 2026. For more information and updates on this initiative, visit ShakopeeMN.gov/SAFER or follow @ShakopeeFD on Facebook.

Shakopee firefighters use a vehicle extrication tool as part of a training exercise.

past decade, and this funding helps ensure our emergency services can keep pace with that growth and continue providing the highest level of protection to our residents.” MEETING THE NEEDS OF A GROWING CITY Currently, the Shakopee Fire Department is structured for 15 full-time positions, including six administrative staff and nine full-time fire staff. The addition of 12 more staff will bring the department closer to meeting National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards for staffing and response times. Just as importantly, this grant will make it pos sible to completely staff Fire Station 2 with full-time personnel for the first time, a signifi cant milestone that will improve response times across the community.

“This grant represents a major step forward in our ongoing efforts to provide the most effec tive and efficient emergency response possible,” said Fire Chief Joe Simon.“The additional staff ing will enhance our ability to respond quickly to fire and medical emergencies, improve fire fighter and public safety, and support our mutual aid partners throughout the region.” Shakopee’s population growth and eco nomic development have driven an increase “The SAFER Grant allows us to plan responsibly. It bridges the gap between where we are and where we need to be, without putting immediate strain on the City’s budget.” Joe Simon | Shakopee Fire Chief

#AsktheCity

SUSTAINABLE WINTER SALT USE

Q: HOW DOES SALT IMPACT THE ENVIRONMENT? A: Using salt on roads and public property helps melt ice and keep sur faces safe, but it comes with several environmental downsides because of its composition. Salt has the potential to pollute water when snow and ice melt, damage soil and stunt plant growth, harm wildlife, and corrode roads, cars, and other infrastructure. Q: WHAT ENVIRONMENTALLY-FRIENDLY ALTERNATIVES TO TRADITIONAL ROAD SALT CAN RESIDENTS USE? A: Residents can use several eco-friendly options, like calcium magne sium acetate (CMA), which is biodegradable and gentle on concrete, plants, and pets. This type of product works well in moderate cold with less harm to the environment.

Q: HOW DO ALTERNATIVES COMPARE TO REGULAR SALT IN EFFECTIVENESS? A: Eco-friendly alternatives can be just as effective as regular salt, espe cially in colder weather. Other options may even melt ice at much lower temperatures. Calcium magnesium acetate (CMA) helps prevent ice from sticking, making shoveling easier. Though these products often cost more, they’re gentler on plants, pavement, and waterways, reduc ing damage to the environment. Q: WHY IS THE CITY LOOKING AT TRANSITIONING INTO MORE SUSTAINABLE SALT/DE-ICING PRACTICES? A: The City is exploring more sustainable de-icing practices to reduce the environmental and infrastructure damage caused by traditional road salt. Salt runoff can pollute rivers, lakes, and groundwater, harm plants and wildlife, and corrode roads, bridges, and vehicles. By shift ing to greener products, the City can maintain safe winter conditions while protecting local ecosystems, preserving infrastructure, and pro moting long-term environmental health.

›› DID YOU KNOW? One teaspoon of salt permanently pollutes 5 gallons of water.

6 Shakopee Snapshot

SHAK THE HALLS! Holiday Lights Contest Entries are open Friday, Nov. 21 through 4:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 18 Free to enter/nominate a residence | $100 for 1st; $50 each for

2nd/3rd place | Voting will take place on Facebook Contest guidelines at ShakopeeMN.gov/shakthehalls

Free Photos with Santa Holiday Activity Stations Downtown Shopping Shakopee Social District

Walk Through Parade Tree Lighting Ceremony

Fireworks Show Vendor Market

First Avenue & Lewis Street

Saturday 2PM - 6PM Dec 6th

Presented By:

Recycle your holiday lights and trees The City offers free drop-off holiday light recycling from Nov. 15, 2025, through Jan. 15, 2026. Drop off your holiday lights during business hours in the bins located in the entryways of City Hall and the Community Center. City Hall: 485 Gorman St.; open weekdays 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Community Center: 1255 Fuller St.; open 5 a.m.–9 p.m. Monday through Friday, 6 a.m.–8 p.m. Saturdays, 8 a.m.–8 p.m. Sundays. The City’s garbage and recycling hauler, DSI, picks up Christmas trees by request during the first two full weeks of January. Christmas tree disposal is considered an “add-on” service and will cost a one-time fee. Call DSI at 952-469-2239 or email shakopee@dickssanitation .com prior to your regular service day to schedule a pickup. Trees will not be picked up if they are placed at the curb without contacting DSI.

Free Family Fun

SHAKOPEE.ORG/HOLIDAY-FEST

SHAKOPEE.ORG/EVENTS

TAX PREPARATION BOOKKEEPING QUICKBOOKS PAYROLL

PAYROLL TIMEKEEPING HUMAN RESOURCES WORKER’S COMP

Winter 2025–26 7

PARKS & RECREATION

Check out Shakopee’s outdoor ice rinks

With any luck, winter will grace us with its presence this year so out door enthusiasts can enjoy one of Shakopee’s outdoor ice rinks. Historically, the rinks are open by mid-December, but warm weather the last couple of years has made it more difficult for ice to remain intact. Once the weather allows for it, the rinks will open in the following locations: ■ Green Meadows Park: 3100 Thrush St. ■ Westminster Park: 801 Valley View Drive E. ■ Southbridge Community Park: 7101 Southbridge Parkway ■ Lions Park: 1103 Adams St. The outdoor rinks are completely free for anyone to use and will remain open if the temperature is above -10 degrees or the windchill above -15 degrees. Rink lights are available between 4 and 10 p.m. All outdoor rinks have warming houses except for Lions Park. Warm ing house availability and hours are dependent on staffing levels. Skate rentals are not available at outdoor rinks, so don’t forget to bring a pair of skates!

Rink lights are available at all outdoor rinks after 4 p.m.

Shakopee high schoolers engineer the fun at upcoming Pop-Up Putt & Play 18 mini golf holes are designed, constructed by students

Get ready to tee off indoors this winter! Shakopee Parks and Recre ation is hosting its fifth annual Pop Up Putt & Play in the Community Center gym this January, offering a family-friendly mini golf experi ence with a creative twist. This year’s course will feature a Harry Potter theme with hole designs crafted by Shakopee High School engineering students in the Cen ter for Advanced Professional Studies (CAPS) program. The students have taken on the challenge of designing and constructing each hole as part of a hands-on class project. To build the mini golf course, students are tasked with creating durable, transportable, and replayable mini golf holes that fit within assigned spaces, include unique interactive elements, and keep the ball contained during play. As part of their project, the students will also attend and operate their holes during the event, helping to guide players, showcasing their designs, and ensuring everyone has a great experience. Shakopee High School senior AJ Mercer said he’s been enjoying the project and is looking forward to watching it come to life as January approaches. “I am excited about helping the community and creating something that kids and parents enjoy together,” Mercer said. Each hole will have its own creative name, along with a photo and short bio about the student team behind it. The community is invited to come play and see the students’ engineer ing creativity in action! Bring your friends and family, and enjoy a round of mini golf unlike any other, designed and built right here in Shakopee. Register at ShakopeeMN.gov/registration .

Come fore the fun of it! $2 per person Register at ShakopeeMN.gov/registration FRIDAY, JAN. 16 Sensory Friendly Hours: 3–5 p.m. All Ages: 5:30–8:30 p.m. SATURDAY, JAN. 17 All Ages: 9 a.m.–Noon

From left, Shakopee High School students Kwasi Yeboah Odeng, Alex Magin, and AJ Mercer make their pitch for a mini golf hole design to Shakopee Parks and Rec staff.

8 Shakopee Snapshot

PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT

‘What’s going there?’ Elliana Estates development planned off Mystic Lake Drive We all want an answer to the burning question, “What’s going there?” when we learn about construction projects happening around the city. Here’s a rundown of some of the projects underway around town:

These renderings provide examples of the styles of homes that will be constructed in Elliana Estates.

ELLIANA ESTATES The City Council approved plans recently for Elliana Estates, a new sin gle-family home development near Mystic Lake Drive and Thrush Street. The area to be developed is just under 14 acres and will feature 31 homes with lots a minimum of 65-feet wide. Two cul-de-sacs will be constructed, as well, with north and south connections to the extension of Avon Lane. Access from Mystic Lake

Drive will be removed, and sidewalks will be built on the north side of both cul-de-sacs and on the east side of Avon Lane. Trails will also be constructed as part of the project, connecting each cul-de-sac to existing trails in the Valley Crest development to the north and to the trail along Mystic Lake Drive.

Shakopee Social District open Dec. 5–7 Sip and stroll for the last open weekend until May 2026

The Shakopee Social District wrapped up its inaugural season on Oct. 31, but it will be open for one more weekend of sipping and strolling from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Dec. 5-7. The Social District allows adults 21 and older to purchase alcoholic beverages from licensed, participating businesses and enjoy them outdoors within designated public areas. Shakopee’s district is divided into two non-contiguous sections: Down town and Canterbury Commons. The Downtown Section of the Social District includes the area bor dered by First Avenue, Spencer Street, Atwood Street, and the Second Street railroad tracks, including the Lewis Street parking lot. The Canterbury Commons Section includes the area bordered by Unbridled Avenue, Shenandoah Drive, Winner’s Circle Drive, and Can terbury Road. Retail establishments located in the district will have signage on their storefront indicating whether or not they allow outside beverages. Beverages must be served by licensed businesses in City-approved containers featuring the business name and the official Social District logo and must stay within the designated boundaries.

Both portions of the district are marked with clear signage, and there is an interactive map online at ShakopeeMN.gov/socialdistrict for a more granular view of the designated areas. Heading out to Holiday Fest for some seasonal shopping? Take advan tage of this final open weekend for 2025! The Social District will open again in May 2026.

The Shakopee Social District is open one final weekend of 2025, from Dec. 5–7.

Winter 2025–26 9

PUBLIC WORKS 28 years of community service and counting

we now have rear wings instead of the old front wings. They do a much bet ter and cleaner job. You’ve been part of a lot of projects over the years, is there one that stands out as something you’re espe cially proud of? Bisek: Over four summers, a few of us built the shelters at Westminster (2011), Green Meadows (2012), Ridge Creek (2013), and Southbridge Com munity Park (2015). It’s nice to drive by and see people still enjoying them.

Public Works team members keep Shakopee’s parks, streets, utilities, and infrastructure running day in and day out. Many have been with the City for decades and have witnessed the community’s growth and evolution over time. Their work is hands-on and demanding, but part of the reward of showing up is the camaraderie among cowork ers and the pride they take in the community they help maintain. Dean Bisek, born and raised right here in Shakopee, is one of those dedicated team members. His career with Public Works began in April 1997, back when the department operated as one unit for both streets and parks. A year later, the City reorganized into separate Parks and Streets divisions, and Bisek’s role transitioned to Parks, where he excelled in field layout and concrete work. Reflecting on 28 years in Public Works, here’s what Bisek had to share: What made you decide to apply for a job with Public Works? Bisek: Previously, I was working for a natural gas company where I was laid off in the winter. I had a young family and wanted something year-round and more stable. My dad also worked for the City of Sha kopee as a police officer. He retired around the time I started here. What’s your favorite part of working in the Parks Division of Public Works? Bisek: The variety of work is a big one. It’s also a great group of guys – really, a good group in all departments. We all get along well. We give each other a hard time, obviously, but when work needs to be done, we get it done. You lay out all the athletic fields and are really the main guy for that. Can you talk about that and how the process has changed over the years? Bisek: When we first started, we had a paint sprayer that you walked behind and pushed through the grass. It was hard work and took four guys. We didn’t have to paint nearly as much as we do now, but that’s how it started. Then we got a unit with a drive attachment behind it, and that was the Cadillac, it was just great! From there, we moved to the GPS paint striper that we use now. How long did it take, and how many operators were needed to paint the soccer fields at the complex with the old push-behind sprayer vs. the GPS striper we have today? Bisek: It would take three to four guys almost a week because we were using measuring tape and string lines. Now, with the GPS paint striper, I can lay out the entire soccer complex by myself in one day. Another big improvement is the amount of paint we use, probably about half as much as before. It’s a huge labor and paint saver! Do you dislike anything about working for Public Works? Bisek: Snowplowing! The whole snow season is five to six months long, and you may not get to have as much fun as you’d like. The odd hours are tough, and the older you get, the harder it is on you. It was hard when I was younger and had kids too. You’d finish plowing all night, get home, and then your wife would have to go to work, so you’d stay up with the kids. What was your first plow truck like, and how have they changed over the years? Bisek: I had a single-plow gas engine truck. It burned through gas and didn’t have nearly as much power as we do now. Technology has come a long way and there have been a lot of advancements. They’re more ergo nomic and no more levers on the floor. Instead, there’s a joystick, and

Dean Bisek

A Note from Public Works Director Bill Egan

For 28 years, Dean Bisek has been a key member of the City of Shakopee’s Public Works Department. He followed in the footsteps of his father, who also worked for the City, instilling in him a deep respect for community service. Dean’s brother joined the ranks as well, adding his own years of dedication, and today their niece continues the family tradition, proudly carrying the Bisek name into the next generation of public service. Throughout his career, Dean has played a vital role in keeping Shakopee safe, clean, and running smoothly. Though much of his work happens behind the scenes, its impact is seen and felt throughout the community, from the first swing of spring to the final snowplow of the season. Dean has also put his carpentry skills to work all over Shakopee, from building park shelters to tackling major remodels at City Hall, the Community Center, Fire Station 1, and the former Police Station (now part of Public Works). Doing the work in-house saved taxpayers a lot of money. Whether pouring concrete, framing walls, or perfecting the finishing details, Dean approached each project with pride and precision. His craftsmanship quite literally shapes the places where Shakopee comes together. Many of us have had the pleasure of working alongside Dean over the years and have seen the pride, teamwork, and dedication he brings to every project. His camaraderie and commitment have left a lasting mark on Shakopee. We thank Dean for nearly three decades of service and for the countless projects he’s helped bring to life for our community to enjoy.

10 Shakopee Snapshot

PUBLIC WORKS Everything you need to know about snow plowing

D. Cul-de-sacs, alleys, sidewalks and trails: Due to their size, Public Works typi cally uses smaller equipment to clear cul-de-sacs, alleys, sidewalks, and trails. Each fall, the City Council adopts a side walk and trails map outlining which sidewalks and trails it will plow during the upcoming season. Priority is given to walking paths along main arterial streets and school walking zones. E. Snow hauling: Some areas of the city do not have enough right-of-way to store snow that accumulates from the plowing process. This can create sight line and safety issues. Thus, Public Works crews typically spend the nights and days following a large storm haul ing snow to open City land for storage. Example: Downtown Shakopee. PARKING DURING WINTER AND IN SNOW STORMS Shakopee’s winter parking regulations are in effect from November 1 through March 31, regardless of whether snow is on the ground. During this period, no parking is allowed on City streets between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m. The only exception is in the Calendar Zone, which is bordered by the Minnesota River, 10th Ave nue, Marschall Road, and County Highway 69. In this area, an odd/even parking rule applies between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m. When it snows two or more inches, street parking is prohibited completely, including in the Calendar Zone, until the street has been completely plowed curb to curb. Keeping vehicles off the street helps Pub lic Works crews plow safely and efficiently, especially in narrow residential areas. Cars parked on the street during snow events can delay plowing operations and leave unplowed sections of roadway behind.

When it snows, we all want our streets and driveways cleared as quickly as possible, so we can get on with daily life. But sometimes, especially after a large snow event, that may mean waiting for the plow. PRIORITIZING WHERE TO PLOW The Public Works Department operates from a snow plowing and ice control policy that outlines the City’s process for efficient and timely snow removal. The policy emphasizes safety by prioritizing emergency response and focusing on the most critical time periods (weekday morning and evening commutes). Here’s how the City prioritizes its streets, parking lots, and trails: A. Emergency routes: Ensuring emer gency fire, police, and medical services can travel freely through the city dur ing a storm event is the City’s main pri ority. This means plowing main arterial roads and collector streets, as they have the highest traffic volumes and connect major sections of the city. Examples: 10th Avenue, Fourth Avenue, Vierling Drive, Southbridge Parkway, Eagle Creek Boulevard. B. Access to schools and commercial property: The second priority are streets that provide access to the city’s com mercial centers and schools. This is criti cal for helping people get to school and work as quickly as possible follow ing a snow event. Examples: Shenan doah Drive, downtown Shakopee, Old Carriage Court, Valley Industrial Boule vard N., Valley Industrial Boulevard S. C. Lower volume residential streets: Once plows have cleared the busiest city streets, they focus on ensuring the less traveled residential streets are cleared. This would include most of the residen tial areas throughout the city.

Who plows my street? Not all streets in Shakopee are plowed by the City of Shakopee Public Works Department. ■ The City of Shakopee maintains public residential streets and public parking lots. ■ Scott County maintains county state aid highways, including Marschall Road, 17th Avenue, Canterbury Road, County Highway 21, and more. ■ The Minnesota Department of Transportation maintains Highway 169 and its on and off ramps. ■ Neighborhood associations clear private streets, alleys, and sidewalks. ■ Private businesses maintain their own private parking lots. If your vehicle is parked on the street in viola tion of the winter parking ordinance, it may be ticketed or towed at the owner’s expense. Residents can help by: ■ Moving vehicles into driveways or garages before snow events. ■ Reminding guests and neighbors about the overnight parking ban. ■ Clearing snow around fire hydrants and mailboxes for safety and access. ■ Avoiding pushing or blowing snow into the street—doing so violates City code and can create hazards once roads refreeze. By following these rules, residents make it eas ier for plow crews to clear streets quickly and keep everyone safe through the winter season. Visit ShakopeeMN.gov/winterparking for more information about winter parking regulations and snow removal.

CLEAN UP AFTER YOUR PET ›› DID YOU KNOW?

›› HOW YOU CAN HELP: Being a responsible pet owner means picking up after your pet. Bag it and put it in the trash. Landfills are designed to safely handle substances such as dog waste and cat litter.

■ Storm sewers are not connected to wastewater treatment plants or septic systems like the drains in your home. When pet waste is tossed into a storm drain or left on a sidewalk, street, or yard, it is carried through the storm system directly into your local water bodies, without any treatment! ■ Pet waste is a threat to human and environmental health because it contains harmful bacterial and pathogens, some of which can cause serious diseases in humans. ■ Pet waste also contains many other nutrient pollutants, which contribute to excessive algae growth in a water body, upsetting the delicate balance of the natural habitat.

PLEASE CLEAN UP AFTER YOUR PET

Winter 2025–26 11

PUBLIC SAFETY

Protect yourself and loved ones with carbon monoxide alarms

Are carbon monoxide (CO) alarms installed and maintained in your home? If not, then it’s time to install them, as CO poisoning can be deadly, and the risk increases during the winter months. According to the National Fire Incident Reporting System, in 2023, fire departments responded to an estimated 82,245 carbon monox ide incidents, not including unintentional alarms. Often called the invisible killer, CO is an odorless, colorless gas cre ated when fuels burn incompletely. In the home, heating and cooking equipment that burns fuel can be sources of CO. With indoor heating being an absolute necessity for Minnesota winters, the risk of uninten tional CO poisoning is increased during the colder months. It’s crucial to be mindful that anything with an engine, including win ter equipment like a portable generator running in a garage or semi enclosed space, can produce dangerous levels of CO. Shakopee Fire offers the following tips for making sure the CO alarms in your home are maintained and working properly: ■ Install and maintain CO alarms in a central location outside each separate sleeping area and on every level of the home, and in other locations, as required by local laws ■ If you have combination smoke/carbon monoxide alarms, follow the directions for smoke alarm installation ■ Test CO alarms once a month and replace them if they fail to respond correctly when tested

Mark your calendars: 10th Annual Diaper Drive runs Jan. 26–Feb. 6 The Shakopee Police Department will host its 10th Annual Diaper Drive from Jan. 26 through Feb. 6 in honor of former Crime Preven tion Specialist Janna Wood, who passed away in 2017 along with her baby due to Deep Vein Thrombosis. Feb. 5 marks the ninth anniversary of Wood’s passing, and the depart ment would love to honor her memory by supporting other local families in need. All donations collected during the drive will be given to Shakopee families with verified need. Community members are encouraged to drop off any amount, size, or type of diapers, wipes, and creams at the Shakopee Police Department, 475 Gorman St., while the drive is in progress. Donations can be left in the building entryway if dropped off after hours. If you’re unable to stop by in person, you can have items delivered directly to the department at the same address. Know the warning signs of carbon monoxide poisoning Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning can be confused with flu symptoms, food poisoning, and other illnesses. The dangers of CO exposure depend on several variables, including the victim’s health and activity level. Infants, pregnant women, and people with physical conditions that limit their body’s ability to use oxygen can be more severely affected by lower concentrations of CO than others. ■ Shortness of breath ■ Nausea ■ Dizziness ■ Light headedness ■ Headaches ■ Confusion ■ Feeling better after leaving the building ■ Everyone in the home feels sick at the same time ■ Indoor pets appear ill ■ Replace the CO alarm according to manufacturer’s instructions or when the end-of-life signal sounds ■ Know the difference between the sound of the CO alarm and the smoke alarm, and each alarm’s low-battery signals Shakopee residents with questions about CO alarm requirements or installation may contact the Shakopee Fire Department at 952-233-9570. If you ever suspect CO poisoning in your home, leave the house, and call 911 immediately.

12 Shakopee Snapshot

PUBLIC SAFETY

Donate your gently used coats for neighbors in need

CHIEF’S NOTES

Winter in Minnesota brings beautiful snow but also challenging driving conditions. The most critical safety practice is simple: Take it slow. Drive at speeds that are safe for the road conditions, which is often slower than the posted limit, and always give your self extra travel time. Being prepared for the worst-case scenario is the best way to ensure your safety and survival, which is why your vehicle should be well-stocked with a Winter Survival Kit. It’s easy to tell yourself you’ll do it this weekend or after the first big snowfall, but Shakopee Fire recommends sooner than later. Should you need to use it, you’ll thank yourself for being prepared! Your kit should be readily accessible in your vehicle and include these essential items: ■ Boots, jackets, gloves, and blankets ■ Cell phone charger ■ Flashlight and spare batteries ■ Bottled water and snacks like protein bars ■ Jumper cables, basic tools, and sand or cat litter for tire traction ■ A red bandana or something else bright to use as a distress signal Protein 100g SUPER FIBER BAR The Shakopee Police Department is accept ing donations of new or gently used winter coats, hats, and gloves/mittens to be given to families at the annual Shop with a Cop event this December. Donations are accepted through 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3, in the lobby of the Sha kopee Police Department (475 Gorman St.). The donation deadline is just a few days after this issue of Shakopee Snapshot will land in mailboxes, but we encourage those reading this after the deadline to consider hanging onto extra coats for the cause in 2026! Follow Shakopee Police on Facebook or Ins tagram @ShakopeePD to stay up-to-date on our community outreach efforts.

As winter settles in, I want to thank you for your continued support and partnership in keeping our community safe.

Shakopee Fire Chief Joe Simon

Cold weather brings unique challenges, and your Fire Department is ready to respond when you need us, whether it’s for icy roads, home heating concerns, or emergency medical calls. This season, I encourage everyone to take a few simple steps to stay safe: ■ Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Winter is peak season for home heating, and working alarms save lives. ■ Keep fire hydrants clear of snow. A few extra minutes of shoveling can make a big difference in an emergency. ■ Use space heaters safely. Keep them ■ Drive cautiously. Snow and ice can make roads treacherous. Please slow down and give our emergency crews room to work. As we enter the holiday season, many of us will be decorating our homes and gathering with loved ones. Please keep these holiday safety tips in mind: ■ Inspect lights before use and throw away any with frayed wires or broken bulbs. ■ Use indoor and outdoor lights appropriately. Only use lights labeled for outdoor use outside. ■ Keep live trees well-watered and away from heat sources like fireplaces or space heaters. ■ Never leave candles unattended. Consider using flameless LED candles for a safer glow. Our firefighters are proud to serve this community, and we’re here for you 24/7. If you ever have questions about fire safety, emergency preparedness, or how to get involved with our department, don’t hesitate to reach out. For our latest news and events, check out our Facebook page. Wishing you and your loved ones a safe, warm, and joyful winter season. at least three feet from anything flammable and never leave them unattended.

The Shakopee Knights of Columbus generously donates several boxes of new coats every year.

What to put in your winter safety driving kit

If you do run into problems and become stranded: 1. Turn on your hazard lights and call 911 for help. 2. Stick your red bandana out the window or tie it to your vehicle’s antenna. 3. Clear snow from your car’s exhaust pipe and open a window for ventilation to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. 4. Remain in your vehicle! Only run the engine occasionally to stay warm and charge your phone. 5. Keep your phone on to communicate with emergency responders and turn on your vehicle’s interior light to aid res cuers if it’s dark outside.

PEANUT BUTTER

PEANUT BUTTER

Protein SUPER FIBER BAR

100g

PEANUT BUTTER

Protein SUPER FIBER BAR

100g

PEANUT BUTTER

Protein SUPER FIBER BAR

PEANUT BUTTER

Protein SUPER FIBER BAR

100g

100g

PEANUT BUTTER

PEANUT BUTTER

Protein SUPER FIBER BAR

Winter 2025–26 13

Protein SUPER FIBER BAR

100g

100g

City of Shakopee 485 Gorman St. Shakopee, MN 55379

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID Permit No 4 Madelia MN 56062

ECRWSS Postal Customer

SHAKOPEE PARKS & RECREATION ACTIVITIES BROCHURE PROGRAM REGISTRATION OPENS TUE., NOV. 25 AT 6 a.m.

A ll T hi gs S pring! Mark your calendars!

WINTER 2025–26

E Float

Active Older Adults ST. PATRICK’S DAY

Egg Hunt & Candy Grab

REGISTRATION REQUIRED

REGISTRATION REQUIRED

FREE EVENT

SAT., MAR. 28 10 a.m. NOON CC Aquatic Center

FRI., MAR. 13 1 2:30 p.m. CC Community Room

SAT., MAR. 21 1 2:30 p.m. Tahpah Park

For more information or to register, visit ShakopeeMN.gov/registration