Summer 2026 Shakopee Snapshot

PUBLIC WORKS Public Works rolls out improved irrigation controller system

To support this, all systems were upgraded with new water sensors designed to reduce watering when rain has already occurred. These sensors ensure that irrigation only happens when it’s truly needed, preventing waste and promoting healthier landscapes throughout our community. The City of Shakopee recently transitioned 22 irrigation systems to the Hunter Centralus platform, demonstrating a strong commit ment to modern, efficient, and environmentally responsible water management. New technologies allow the City to modernize the way we care for public property. It enhances reliability, improves efficiency, and allows staff to deliver a higher level of service, all while keeping Sha kopee looking its best.

As part of the Public Works Department’s commitment to delivering smarter, more efficient irrigation solutions, we’ve upgraded our opera tions to the Hunter Centralus cloud‑based management platform. This change will make a positive impact in the City’s ongoing effort to pro vide faster service, reduce water waste, and stay ahead of the curve. Centralus gives Public Works staff the ability to monitor and manage irrigation systems remotely, which means they can adjust schedules, check system status, and respond to issues without needing to be on‑site. This dramatically reduces downtime and eliminates many unnecessary service visits, allowing staff to resolve problems quickly and keep landscapes performing at their best. The platform also helps the City use water more responsibly. With real‑time data, weather‑based adjustments, and smarter scheduling tools, staff can fine‑tune irrigation to match actual landscape needs.

Public Works’ column lifts make maintenance quicker, more efficient

Did you know the City’s Public Works Department has the capability to lift up an entire fire engine for maintenance? The department has six mobile column lifts in the mechanic shop, and each one is rated to lift 18,500 pounds on its own. Collectively, the six lifts can hoist up to 111,000 pounds. That’s like lifting 10 elephants! Each column is on wheels, allowing crews to move them anywhere in the workshop depending on the need and vehicle involved. With such versatility and strength, these column lifts save the City time and cost by reducing vehicle downtime and increasing the maintenance capabilities of the City’s own team.

The department's column lifts are able to collectively lift up an entire fire engine.

Free wood chips available for Shakopee residents The City has extra wood chips available to Shakopee residents. A self serve bin is located in front of the 500 Gorman St. building near the south gate. There is no charge for the wood chips, but residents are responsible for hand loading, so bring your own shovel. Please follow all posted directions.

16 Shakopee Snapshot