Spring 2012 Newsletter
HIGHLAND ROAD PROJECT UPDATE .........................4
Spring 2012
LIVING WITH COYOTES & PREVENTING CONFLICT.... 6
RAINGARDEN W ORKSHOP IN TRAINING CENTER ...... 9
Minnetrista Messenger Vote at the Westonka District Education Center
The City of Minnetrista will deliver quality services in a cost effective and innovative manner and provide opportunities for a high quality of life while protecting natural resources and maintaining a rural character.
Precinct Changes
Minnetrista Precinct 1A consists of those properties within the ISD 277 (Westonka School District) boundaries
that are also north of County Road 15. Voters in this precinct will continue to vote at the Westonka District Education Center located at 5901 Sunnyfield Rd East. Minnetrista Precinct 2A consists of those properties within ISD 879 and ISD 111 (the Delano and WatertownMayer School Districts) boundaries. Voters in this precinct will continue to vote at Minnetrista City Hall located at 7701 County Road 110W. Minnetrista Precinct 3A consists of those properties within the ISD 110 (Waconia School District) Boundaries. Voters in this precinct will vote at Fresh-
Visit our website to see a detailed map showing specific parcels. 2A
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s part of the State redistricting process,, cities are required to review and amend or affirm the boundary lines of all election precincts under their jurisdiction. At their March 19, 2012 meeting, the Minnetrista City Council passed a resolution establishing four election precincts and polling places. These changes will be in effect for the 2012 Primary and all subsequent elections. A detailed parcel map and additional information is on the City website. Contact Terri Haarstad, City Clerk, at Minnetrista City Hall with your questions or concerns.
Vote at Minnetrista City Hall
Vote at Freshwater Community Church
Vote at the Minnetrista Police Training Center
water Community Church located at 4319 Steiner Street just off Highway 7 southwest of St. Boni Motor Sports. Minnetrista Precinct 4A consists of those properties within the ISD 277 (Westonka School District) boundaries south of County Road 15. Voters in this precinct will vote in the Minnetrista Police Training Room located in the Police Building at 7651 County Road 110W.
Mayor’s Message Winter seems to have not really happened and it feels like summer as I write this article. The City Council is reviewing the goals and the recent community survey to make sure we can achieve the priorities set out in our Council/Staff retreat. The City Council reached its top goals last year including: adjusting to the changing economy, continuing our inter-jurisdictional collaboration to bring closure to the Police and Fire Departments studies, managing the Woodland Cove Project, improving communication with the public, addressing the city’s infrastructure needs, and focusing on long term planning. Mayor’s Message continued on page 2
Mayor’s Message
CONTACT INFO Minnetrista City Hall 7701 County Road 110 W Minnetrista, MN 55364 Phone: 952.446.1660 Hours: 8:00a—4:30p M—F Email: [email protected] Website: www.ci.minnetrista.mn.us Minnetrista City Council Mayor Cheryl Fischer 952.472.6510 Arlene Donahue 952.472.4456 Anne Hunt 952.472.7034 Mark Vanderlinde 952.446.9341 George Zenanko 952.955.2499
Mayor’s Message continued from page 1
Once again the city’s Finance Department has earned the CAFR award for excellence in financial reporting. This is the 7th year running. Thanks to Finance Director Brian Grimm and his team for keeping us on task and budget.
The City Council recently negotiated with the unions to exchange employee’s “floating holiday” for the Friday after Thanksgiving. Accordingly, beginning in 2012, the day after Thanksgiving will now be a holiday for the city.
Several months ago, the City Council found it necessary to increase the sanitary sewer fee ($95) per quarter and the surface water management fee ($18) per quarter. You will see these changes on your 1st quarter 2012 utility billing. Costs of repair and maintenance of the sanitary sewer infrastructure, unfunded water quality mandates and increase in Met Council’s fees are what drives this change.
Another collaborative project will take place this spring and summer. The improvement to Highland Road with the City of St. Bonifacius is long overdue and we are happy to have received excellent bids and favorable interest rates to move it forward now. A portion of the city’s MSA (Municipal State Aid) dollars that we receive each year for road projects will pay the bond payments for this project. Bonding for this project will not have an effect on our excellent AA+ bond rating.
At this time the City of Mound has requested that the City of Minnetrista propose a contract in concept for polices services that would provide the same or better service for the same or less cost. Savings would be realized over the life of the agreement. Details are still being worked on to determine if this is feasible and advantageous to the residents of both cities. If approved by both cities, it would be a long term contract designed to work now and for the future. This would bring all police services from both Mound and Minnetrista together under the Minnetrista Public Safety Department (MPSD). The MPSD also provides police services to the City of St. Bonifacius. Minnetrista has asked the Mound and St. Boni Fire Departments to propose a single contract to Minnetrista that would provide fire services to the entire city of Minnetrista giving details on how that would be accomplished. The City Council has also requested that the departments consider future growth which would include Woodland Cove. The cities continue to work on the details. In order to continue with the theme of better service the Public Works Department has undergone some reorganization. Our City Engineer Mark Erichson (WSB Engineering) will now also fill the role of Public Works Director. The city is in the process of hiring a Supervisor in that department to oversee daily duties.
DATES TO REMEMBER: May 12th – RECYCLE/CLEANUP DAY- at City Hall from 8am—3pm May 19th – TRISTA DAY featuring the Teddy Bear Band! An annual event which promotes public safety and fun for all ages from 11am—2pm Details for both events are in this newsletter, on the city website and at City Hall. As always, feel free to contact me with your interests and concerns, Mayor Cheryl Fischer
FREE TV Classes
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he Lake Minnetonka Cable Commission (LMCC) offers a variety of television production classes to people who live in the Minnetonka area. These classes are designed to teach anyone the basics of Studio Production and Final Cut Pro Editing. Classes are free but space is limited. Please contact the LMCC today and make arrangements to take a class! For more information, please call Chris Vogt, LMCC-TV Productions Manager, at (952) 471—7125 or by email at [email protected].
Election Judges & Trainees Needed
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he City of Minnetrista is seeking citizens to serve as election judges and election judge trainees to staff polling places and assist voters during the State Primary Election being held on August 14, 2012 and the General Election on November 6, 2012. The city is also looking for individuals to serve on the Absentee Ballot Board that will meet weekly during the absentee voting periods.
Election Judges are officials that staff local polling places, administer election procedures and ensure the rights of voters are protected on Election Day. Duties include but are not limited to: setting up the polling place, operating voting equipment, directing voters to the correct line, registering individuals to vote, ensuring qualified voters are permitted to vote, assisting voters, closing the polling place, determining the results after the polls close and certi-
fying the polling place results. Serving as an election judge is a great learning and civic opportunity for those citizens who want to be involved in their community. You do not have to be an active member of a political party, be a member of a board or commission or have previous volunteer experience. In fact, serving as an election judge or election judge trainee is a great way to boost your resume! You may qualify to serve as an election judge or election judge trainee if you are: A United States Citizen Able to read, write and speak English Going to be 16 years old or older on Election Day NOT the parent, child, spouse or sibling of a political candidate on the ballot Able to complete election duties in a fair and impartial manner
Roads Committee
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n January, the City Council appointed five citizens to serve two year terms on an ad hoc Road Committee. Meetings are listed on the calendar page of the City’s website and are open for public viewing.
This committee acts as an advisory board to the City Council regarding public streets and roads issues (both gravel and paved) in light of federal, state and local regulations. State, county and private streets and roads are not reviewed or considered by the committee. The Road Committee has an interest in creating a comprehensive Road Maintenance Plan and will be forwarding recommendations to the City Council in the near future.
Roads Committee members are volunteer appointees who do not collect a salary or stipend to perform their duties. The Road Committee consists of the following members: Chair Ralph Harrison [email protected] (952) 472—6828 Vice Chair Tim Lembke [email protected] (952) 472—2062 Guy Warner [email protected] Tom Donahue (612) 799—8017 Bill Holm (952) 472—6985
Much like Jury Duty, State law requires employers to permit you to take time off work or school without penalty (financial or otherwise) to serve as an election judge. Likewise, the stipend earned from serving as an election judge does not count towards unemployment income limits. Additional information can be found on the elections page of the city website. Or, contact Terri Haarstad, City Clerk, at City Hall with questions or concerns you may have. An application can be found on page 7 of this newsletter and is due by 4:30pm on May 15,2012.
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YOU ARE INVITED...
Open Book Meeting WHO: Minnetrista property owners WHEN: April 25, 2012 from 4:00 to 7:00pm. WHERE: City Hall in the City Council Chambers WHY: This meeting is intended to provide property owners with an opportunity to discuss area sales activity, and talk about their property’s value and/or class with a Hennepin County assessor.
Filing for Office nterested in becoming a candidate for office?
For federal and state offices, file at the Minnesota SecreG tary of State’s Office during regular office hours from May 22, 2012 through June 5, 2012. Contact the MN Secretary of State’s Office directly for additional information. For state, county and judicial offices, file with the Hennepin County Elections Division during regular office hours from May 22, 2012 through June 5, 2012. Contact the Hennepin County Elections directly for additional information. For school board offices, contact your school district office to determine the filing dates and process. Most school board candidate filings will take place between May 22, 2012 and June 5, 2012. To file for municipal office, complete an affidavit of candidacy and submit the required filing fee at Minnetrista City Hall during regular
office hours from 8:00am on July 31, 2012 through 5:00pm on August 14, 2012. The mayoral Office and two Minnetrista City Council positions will appear on the ballot in November 2012. As you plan campaign events, please be aware that a liquor license is required if you are serving alcohol and charging admission, asking for donations or collecting contributions. A liquor license takes up to 45 days to acquire. Contact Terri Haarstad, City Clerk, at City Hall for more information and an application at least 45 days prior to the event. Using a caterer licensed to serve alcohol would also meet legal requirements. Additionally, if you are expecting 300 or more people at attend your campaign event or if you require special city services (road closures, traffic control, parking permits, etc) a special event permit may be required. Permit applications can be downloaded from the city’s website.
Highland Road Project Please visit the city website to see a larger version of this map and to view updated information throughout the construction project.
The City of Minnetrista and St. Bonifacius have entered into a construction contract with Fehn Companies, Inc. for the reconstruction of Highland Road from CR 110 south approximately one mile. Removal of trees will take place mid April with roadway construction taking place the beginning of May. During roadway reconstruction, Highland Road will be closed to thru traffic. Access to properties adjacent to the proposed improvements will have access throughout construction from one direction or the other, with regular newsletters issued to them regarding status of the project. Police, fire, ambulance, US Postal Service, garbage haulers, and school district will also receive regular updates. Part of Highland Road is being
realigned to improve safety where it crosses the Dakota Rail Trail. A short segment of the Dakota Rail Trail will be closed for a period of time no longer than ten days. During the closure, trail users will be detoured on Kennedy Memorial Drive and that portion of Highland Road not being reconstructed (south of proposed improvements). Trail reconstruction must be completed by May 25. Substantial completion of the improvements is scheduled for August 30th, 2012 with the final completion date being September 28, 2012. Newsletters to property owners will be placed on the City’s website and can be a resource for anyone citywide looking for an update on the project status.
To Flush or Not to Flush Water $aving Tips
Adjust your lawn mower to a higher setting. A taller lawn shades roots and holds soil moisture better than if it is closely clipped. Water your plants deeply but less frequently to encourage deep root growth and drought tolerance. Adjust sprinklers so only your lawn is watered and not the house, sidewalk, or street. Use sprinklers that deliver big drops of water close to the ground. Smaller water drops and mist often evaporate before they hit the ground. Check your sprinkler system valves periodically for leaks and keep the sprinkler heads in good shape. Consider using drip irrigation for shrubs and trees to
apply water directly to the roots where it is needed. Install a rain sensor on your irrigation controller so your system won't run when it's raining. Minimize evaporation by watering your plants during early morning hours when temperatures are cooler and winds lighter. Lay down mulch to retain moisture. Plant in the fall when conditions are cooler and rainfall is more plentiful. Trickling or cascading fountains lose less water to evaporation than those spraying water into the air. Monitor your water bill and your water meter for unusually high use. Your bill and water meter are tools that can help you discover leaks.
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esidents are reminded to limit toilet usage to human waste and toilet paper that has been treated to be biodegradable. City staff in Minnetrista and surrounding communities have recently been finding everything from diapers and toys to mop heads and handiwipes blocking sanitary sewer pipes and pumps. Unfortunately, when these types of items are flushed, they cause major problems to the sewer system and cost taxpayers money.
heavy rain, runoff, or snow melt, the sewage can not flow past the debris fast enough to keep up with the volume. As a result, the untreated sewage backs up into homes, yards, streets and parks.
Items found blocking sewage pipes include: underwear, condoms, feminine products, handi -wipes, cloth cleaning towels, disposable diapers, toilet cleaning brushes, rubber gloves, medications, golf balls, rope, mop heads, paper towels, and more. Dental floss has proved When items that belong in the to be especially harmful as it trash are flushed, they get stuck wraps around the shafts of the and clog the pipes. The only pumps and causes additional way to stop the blockage is to damage to pump motors. remove the materials by hand. This costs taxpayers extra dol- The problem appears to be getting worse as more products are lars in staff time as well as in repair and replacement costs for listed as disposable. Fortuequipment damaged by the de- nately, this problem is 100% avoidable. Please keep in mind bris. that disposable items are inDuring normal usage times, tended to be placed in the trash sewage can occasionally flow and not in the toilet. Thank you past the debris at a slower rate. for your assistance! However, during times of
Utility Rate Changes As discussed in the first newsletter of 2012, the Sewer Utility and Surface Water Management (previously titled Storm Water) rates have changed for 2012. The new amounts of $95 per quarter for the Sewer Utility (for residential users the base rate is the flat rate) and $18 per quarter for the Surface Water Management Utility were reflected on the first quarter utility bills that went out. The surface water/storm water quarterly fee had not
been adjusted since 2004. These adjustments were needed to help with low cash balances in the above enterprise funds, increasing mandates from other agencies, completing required surface water projects identified in our surface water management plan, and are in conjunction and consistent with our utility financial management plan. For additional information, visit the City website or call City Hall at (952) 446-1660.
Locate before you Excavate! Did you know that to protect your underground utilities as well as the public, MN state law (Chapter 216D) requires you to call 651.454.0002 or 1.800.252.1166 to contact Gopher State One Call before you dig on your property. Utility providers with infrastructure in your work area will then mark with paint or flags the approximate horizontal location of your underground utilities on or before your legal start time.
of all the utilities that were notified and be able to see if they have marked the job site. Excavators are required to maintain a minimum horizontal (side to side) clearance of two feet (24") between an unexposed facility and the cutting edge or point of any power operated excavating or earth-moving equipment.
If a utility is accidentally hit, please immediately evacuate everyone in the area, call 911 and the affected Before digging, contact Gopher State utility provider. One Call to obtain a ticket with a list
Watering Restrictions REMINDER: Outdoor odd/even watering restrictions begin on May 1st and are in effect through September 30th. Homeowners whose address ends in an odd number may water their lawn using the public water supply only on odd numbered calendar days. Homeowners whose address ends in an even number may water their lawn using the public water supply only on even numbered calendar days. In addition, City Code (700.33) states that “no person shall Irrigate using the public water supply between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. on any day of the week. This Time of Day Restriction applies to established lawns, vegetation, shrubs, trees and gardens and also applies to new sod and seed UNLESS written permission to Irrigate during the restricted times
is obtained from the city administrator or his or her designee.” City water customers are permitted to wash cars and water shrubs, trees and gardens with a handheld hose. These restrictions also do NOT apply to homeowners who use private sources of water (a well) and are not using the public water supply. The restrictions also make an exception for recreational use, such as children running through a sprinkler. Please be aware, however, that water toys or sprinklers must be present and children must be actively playing with the toys or sprinklers. Violations may result in a misdemeanor citation. Please contact city hall with any questions you may have.
City Calendar Meetings start at 7:00pm unless otherwise specified. For updated meeting information and additional details please visit the city website. April 2012 2 - CC Special Meeting 5:30p 2 - City Council 10 - Park Commission 16 - City Council 23 - Planning Commission 24 - Road Committee 3:00p 25—Open Book meeting 4p—7p 27 - Land Use Applications due 4:30pm May 2012 7 - CC Special Meeting 5:30p 7 - City Council 8 - Park Commission 12 - Recycle Clean-up Day 8a—3p 15 - Election Judge apps due 15 - Utility Bills due by 4:30pm 19 - Trista Day 11a - 2p 21 - City Council 22 - Rain Garden Workshop 6:00p 25 - Land Use Applications due 4:30pm 28 - Memorial Day City Offices closed 29 - Planning Commission June 2012 4 - CC Special Meeting 5:30p 4 - City Council 12 - Park Commission 18 - City Council 21 - Required election judge training opt 1 (TBD) 22 - Land Use Applications due 4:30pm 25 - Planning Commission 29 - Absentee voting begins / Primary Election July 2012 2 - CC Special Meeting 5:30p 2 - City Council 4 - Independence Day City Offices closed 10 - Park Commission 10 - Required election judge training opt 2 (TBD) 11 - Required election judge training opt 3 (TBD) 16 - City Council 23 - Planning Commission 24 - Last day to pre-register to vote 5:00p 27 - Land Use Applications due 4:30pm 31 - Road Committee 3:00p 31 - Filing for municipal offices open City Hall Looking ahead August 7 - National Night Out August 9 - Public Accuracy Testing of election equipment 9:00a August 14 - Filing for municipal offices closes 5:00p August 14 - State Primary Election 7a - 8p September 21 - Absentee voting begins November 6 - General Election 7:00a - 8:00p
Living with Coyotes
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Mark your calendars for our Spring Clean-up Recycle Day to be held on Saturday, May 12, 2012 from 8:00am to 3:00pm Minnetrista City Hall. This recycling event is co-sponsored by the cities of Minnetrista and Mound and is open to all residents of the surrounding area. Identification is not required. Acceptable items include: used appliances, scrap metal, furniture, carpet, electronics, tires, plastic toys, fluorescent bulbs, computer components, Styrofoam, and concrete. Some of these items can be dropped off
ardly any animal in America is more adaptable to changing conditions than the coyote and one of the keys to its success is its diet. A true scavenger, the coyote will eat just about anything. Identified as a killer of small livestock, poultry and deer, the coyote will also eat snakes, foxes, rodents, rabbits, birds, frogs, grasshoppers, pet food, pet cats, pet dogs, carrion, fruits, vegetables, doughnuts, sandwiches and just plain garbage.
Coyotes look like small collies or German Shepherds. They have erect pointed ears, slender muzzle and a bushy tail. Most coyotes are brownish gray in color with a light gray to cream-colored belly. However, a coyote’s color varies and may be somewhat darker or lighter depending on the time of the year. According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, there has never been a coyote attack on a human being in Minnesota. However, if you enjoy seeing coyotes and want a closer look, please use binoculars. Do not ever put out food to lure them. Nearly all wild animal bites occur when people attempt to feed or treat wild animals as domestic animals. All wild animals are unpredictable and caution is the watchword when coyotes are around. In areas where they are hunted or trapped, coyotes are very wary of human beings. However, in urban and suburban areas, they are more likely to associate people with an easy and dependable source of food and they can be very bold. In fact, they can come right up to the door of a house if food is regularly present. Unfortunately, wild animals that lose
Recycle Clean-up Day
their fear of humans are more likely to pose a danger to humans and the lifespan of such an animal is shortened. Taking the following steps may reduce the chance of humancoyote conflicts: Do NOT feed coyotes Do NOT allow pets to run free. Keep them safely confined and provide secure nighttime housing for them. Walk you pets on a leash and accompany your pet outside, especially at night. Feed pets indoors whenever possible. Pick up any leftovers if feeding outdoors. Store pet and livestock feed where it is inaccessible to wildlife. Bird feeders should be positioned so that coyotes can’t get to the feed. They are attracted by bread, table scraps and seed. They may also be attracted by the birds and rodents that come to the feeders. Secure garbage containers and eliminate garbage odors. Trim and clean, near ground level, any shrubbery that provides hiding cover for coyotes or their prey. If you see a coyote acting aggressively, please call 9-1-1.
at no charge. Other items require a small fee to help with disposal costs. Paper shredding will be available from 11am until 1:00pm only. Please be aware that brush, leaves, construction waste, household hazardous waste, insulation, lumber, newspaper, wood, treated lumber and gas refrigerators can not be accepted at this event. Visit the City website for a complete listing of accepted items. Call City Hall with any questions you may have.
Drinking Water Report
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he City of Minnetrista expects to receive, in the month of May, the results of monitoring done on its drinking water for the period from January 1 to December 31, 2011. The purpose of this report is to advance consumers’ understanding of drinking water and heighten awareness of the need to protect precious water resources.
Source of Water Minnetrista’s drinking water comes from a groundwater source: four wells ranging from 253 to 787 feet deep, that draw water from the Franconia-Mt. Simon and Quaternary Buried Artesian aquifers.
reasonably be expected to contain at least small amounts of some contaminants. The presence of contaminants does not necessarily indicate that water poses a health risk. The water provided to Minnetrista residents meets drinking water standards. No contaminants were detected in the water at levels that violated federal drinking water standards. However, the Minnesota Department of Health has also made a determination as to how vulnerable the source of water may be to future contamination incidents and notifies customers of contaminants that were detected in trace amounts that were below legal limits.
For the complete 2011 Drinking Water Report, watch the legal In order to ensure that tap water notices in The Laker and the city is safe to drink, the United website. Copies will also be States Environmental Protection available for viewing at MinnetAgency (EPA) prescribes regurista City Hall during regular lations which limit the amount business hours. of certain contaminants in water provided by public water sysIf you have questions about the tems. Food and Drug AdminiCity of Minnetrista drinking stration (FDA) regulations eswater or would like information tablish limits for contaminants about opportunities for public in bottled water which must participation in decisions that provide the same protection for may affect the quality of the public health. Drinking water, water, call 952-446-1660. including bottled water, may Results of Monitoring
Dust Reduction Roads that carry a high volume of traffic will receive one citypaid dust reduction treatment this spring as part of the twoyear pilot initiative approved by the City Council in 2011. Roads identified as meeting the high volume criteria include: Halstead Dr, Sunnyfield Road E, North Branch Rd, Westbranch Rd and Blair Rd. If a second treatment is desired, residents will need to submit the application form and associated fee. Residents who live on gravel roads that have not been identified as having high traffic volume can receive dust reduction treatment by submitting an application and associated fee
to City Hall by May 4, 2012. Dust reduction treatments are effective in reducing dust and also cause the roadway to be harder. In order to preserve this investment, the city will be grading treated roads less frequently. As such, residents can expect more potholes and bumps to form and the road to be in rougher condition. For safety reasons, the City reserves the right to grade gravel roads regardless of whether or not dust reduction treatment was applied. Applications can be found on the city website or obtained by calling City Hall.
Financial Award
Mini-Grants For Groups Submitted by Minnesota Waters
The Minnehaha Watershed District (MCWD), in partnership with the state-wide non-profit Minnesota Waters, is bringing dollars, resources and expertise to local citizens who want to provide and protect clean water. The program provides mini-grants to help both new and existing groups take action on issues important to them, such as preventing the spread of zebra mussels or reducing the amount of polluted runoff. The Seed
Fund provides administrative support and $500 in start-up support to help groups cover the cost of outreach, obtain non-profit status and hold a community kick-off meeting. For more information about this program, contact Alex Gehrig the metro area program coordinator for Minnesota Waters at (651) 278-7117 or view information on MCWD’s website www.minnehahacreek.org/ what-can-i-do.
Curbside Recycling
cartons and juice boxes are We are excited to announce now accepted. Remember to that Waste Management is rinse all containers thornow able to accept a wider oughly. Please do NOT inrange of items to recycle. clude plastic grocery bags; Previously, plastics marked most grocery and department with only numbers 1 and 2 stores will accept them for (inside the chasing arrows) recycling. If you have queswere accepted. Now, items tions about what you may, or marked 3-7 may also be inmay not recycle, visit cluded. Some of these items wmtwincities.com. Or call include yogurt containers, Submitted by Metro Blooms margarine tubs and lids. CarWaste Management at cost rain garden workshops Get ready for spring by plantons such as milk and juice (952) 890-1100. since 2005,” said Metro Blooms ning a garden that beautifies Executive Director Becky Rice. your yard and helps keep our water clean. Whether you are an “More than 5,000 residents have attended our workshops experienced gardener or have and over 2,000 rain gardens never tried gardening before, Dispose of Them at County Drop Box! have been installed.” this eco-friendly gardening workshop will help you learn Submitted by Hennepin County Environmental Services Tuesday, May 22, 2012 how to: 6-9 PM Proper disposal of medicines is important to protect Use native plants in your small children, family pets and the environment. Minnetrista Public Safety garden landscape Training Center There is now a conveniently located free drop-off site 7651 County Road 110W Limit fertilizers and pestifor unused medicines located at the: Minnetrista, MN 55364 cides without compromising a beautiful yard Hennepin County Sheriff’s Water Patrol facilInstructor: Michael Keenan, Capture rainwater on site Metro Blooms Lead Landscape ity with rain gardens Designer 4141 Shoreline Blvd. in Spring Park Workshop fee: $15 Redirect your downspouts Prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, Plan your own garden with one- To register for the gardening supplements, and pet medicines are accepted. Leave on-one assistance from landworkshop call 651.698.1390 or medications in original packaging or containers. scape designers visit www.metroblooms.org. The City of Minnetrista has received its seventh Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting (CAFR) Award from the Government Finance Officers Association.
Awards are presented to government units whose Comprehensive Annual Financial Reports achieve the highest standards in governmental accounting and financial reporting.
Rain garden Workshop
Unused Medicines?
“Metro Blooms has been partnering with Twin Cities Metro communities to provide low-
Sponsored by the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District and the City of Minnetrista.
Please call 612.348.3777 or visit www.hennepin.us/medicine for further instructions.
The Teddy Bear Band Mounted Patrol
Saturday, May 19, 2012 11:00am—2:00pm Minnetrista Police Department 7651 County Road 110 W
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rista Day started in 2001 as an attempt to get safety information to kids in our community. We quickly learned that helicopters and hot dogs draw a lot of kids and adults as well. This proved to be a great opportunity to educate our community on issues like seat belt use, air bag safety, gun safety, fire prevention, theft prevention, first aid, water safety, park and trail safety, victim services, DWI prevention and many other safety topics. At its heart Trista Day has always been a safety education event. An added bonus is that it's been a lot of fun. Over the years, Trista Day has evolved to include more of the businesses in our area and what they have to offer. We also provide information on all of our City operations. Trista Day is a great family friendly event that continues to add more and more every year. If you've never attended Trista Day, please join us this year! If you have a local business or organization and would like to have a space at Trista Day or if you would like to help make Trista Day a success by volunteering your time, contact the Police Department at (952) 446 - 1131.
7701 County Road 110W Minnetrista, MN 55364
Westonka Early Childhood
Education MADD Crash Car Ambulance Water Patrol Helicopter Landing McGruff the Crime Dog Karate board breaking demos St. Boni Fire Dept Mound Fire Dept Minnetrista Police Mound Police FREE food, gunlocks, tree saplings, child ID kits, bounce house, balloons, fire extinguisher recharges, child safety seat info & MUCH, MUCH MORE!
PRESORT STD U.S. Postage PAID Mound, MN Permit No. 89
Phone: 952-446-1660 Fax: 952-446-1311 Email: [email protected] Web Page: www.ci.minnetrista.mn.us
This newsletter was published in accordance with the City of Minnetrista’s Publication Policy which may be viewed in its entirety on the City’s website at www.ci.minnetrista.mn.us or during regular business hours at Minnetrista City Hall; 7701 Co. Rd 110 W; Minnetrista, MN 55364.
Spring 2012
LIVING WITH COYOTES & PREVENTING CONFLICT.... 6
RAINGARDEN W ORKSHOP IN TRAINING CENTER ...... 9
Minnetrista Messenger Vote at the Westonka District Education Center
The City of Minnetrista will deliver quality services in a cost effective and innovative manner and provide opportunities for a high quality of life while protecting natural resources and maintaining a rural character.
Precinct Changes
Minnetrista Precinct 1A consists of those properties within the ISD 277 (Westonka School District) boundaries
that are also north of County Road 15. Voters in this precinct will continue to vote at the Westonka District Education Center located at 5901 Sunnyfield Rd East. Minnetrista Precinct 2A consists of those properties within ISD 879 and ISD 111 (the Delano and WatertownMayer School Districts) boundaries. Voters in this precinct will continue to vote at Minnetrista City Hall located at 7701 County Road 110W. Minnetrista Precinct 3A consists of those properties within the ISD 110 (Waconia School District) Boundaries. Voters in this precinct will vote at Fresh-
Visit our website to see a detailed map showing specific parcels. 2A
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s part of the State redistricting process,, cities are required to review and amend or affirm the boundary lines of all election precincts under their jurisdiction. At their March 19, 2012 meeting, the Minnetrista City Council passed a resolution establishing four election precincts and polling places. These changes will be in effect for the 2012 Primary and all subsequent elections. A detailed parcel map and additional information is on the City website. Contact Terri Haarstad, City Clerk, at Minnetrista City Hall with your questions or concerns.
Vote at Minnetrista City Hall
Vote at Freshwater Community Church
Vote at the Minnetrista Police Training Center
water Community Church located at 4319 Steiner Street just off Highway 7 southwest of St. Boni Motor Sports. Minnetrista Precinct 4A consists of those properties within the ISD 277 (Westonka School District) boundaries south of County Road 15. Voters in this precinct will vote in the Minnetrista Police Training Room located in the Police Building at 7651 County Road 110W.
Mayor’s Message Winter seems to have not really happened and it feels like summer as I write this article. The City Council is reviewing the goals and the recent community survey to make sure we can achieve the priorities set out in our Council/Staff retreat. The City Council reached its top goals last year including: adjusting to the changing economy, continuing our inter-jurisdictional collaboration to bring closure to the Police and Fire Departments studies, managing the Woodland Cove Project, improving communication with the public, addressing the city’s infrastructure needs, and focusing on long term planning. Mayor’s Message continued on page 2
Mayor’s Message
CONTACT INFO Minnetrista City Hall 7701 County Road 110 W Minnetrista, MN 55364 Phone: 952.446.1660 Hours: 8:00a—4:30p M—F Email: [email protected] Website: www.ci.minnetrista.mn.us Minnetrista City Council Mayor Cheryl Fischer 952.472.6510 Arlene Donahue 952.472.4456 Anne Hunt 952.472.7034 Mark Vanderlinde 952.446.9341 George Zenanko 952.955.2499
Mayor’s Message continued from page 1
Once again the city’s Finance Department has earned the CAFR award for excellence in financial reporting. This is the 7th year running. Thanks to Finance Director Brian Grimm and his team for keeping us on task and budget.
The City Council recently negotiated with the unions to exchange employee’s “floating holiday” for the Friday after Thanksgiving. Accordingly, beginning in 2012, the day after Thanksgiving will now be a holiday for the city.
Several months ago, the City Council found it necessary to increase the sanitary sewer fee ($95) per quarter and the surface water management fee ($18) per quarter. You will see these changes on your 1st quarter 2012 utility billing. Costs of repair and maintenance of the sanitary sewer infrastructure, unfunded water quality mandates and increase in Met Council’s fees are what drives this change.
Another collaborative project will take place this spring and summer. The improvement to Highland Road with the City of St. Bonifacius is long overdue and we are happy to have received excellent bids and favorable interest rates to move it forward now. A portion of the city’s MSA (Municipal State Aid) dollars that we receive each year for road projects will pay the bond payments for this project. Bonding for this project will not have an effect on our excellent AA+ bond rating.
At this time the City of Mound has requested that the City of Minnetrista propose a contract in concept for polices services that would provide the same or better service for the same or less cost. Savings would be realized over the life of the agreement. Details are still being worked on to determine if this is feasible and advantageous to the residents of both cities. If approved by both cities, it would be a long term contract designed to work now and for the future. This would bring all police services from both Mound and Minnetrista together under the Minnetrista Public Safety Department (MPSD). The MPSD also provides police services to the City of St. Bonifacius. Minnetrista has asked the Mound and St. Boni Fire Departments to propose a single contract to Minnetrista that would provide fire services to the entire city of Minnetrista giving details on how that would be accomplished. The City Council has also requested that the departments consider future growth which would include Woodland Cove. The cities continue to work on the details. In order to continue with the theme of better service the Public Works Department has undergone some reorganization. Our City Engineer Mark Erichson (WSB Engineering) will now also fill the role of Public Works Director. The city is in the process of hiring a Supervisor in that department to oversee daily duties.
DATES TO REMEMBER: May 12th – RECYCLE/CLEANUP DAY- at City Hall from 8am—3pm May 19th – TRISTA DAY featuring the Teddy Bear Band! An annual event which promotes public safety and fun for all ages from 11am—2pm Details for both events are in this newsletter, on the city website and at City Hall. As always, feel free to contact me with your interests and concerns, Mayor Cheryl Fischer
FREE TV Classes
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he Lake Minnetonka Cable Commission (LMCC) offers a variety of television production classes to people who live in the Minnetonka area. These classes are designed to teach anyone the basics of Studio Production and Final Cut Pro Editing. Classes are free but space is limited. Please contact the LMCC today and make arrangements to take a class! For more information, please call Chris Vogt, LMCC-TV Productions Manager, at (952) 471—7125 or by email at [email protected].
Election Judges & Trainees Needed
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he City of Minnetrista is seeking citizens to serve as election judges and election judge trainees to staff polling places and assist voters during the State Primary Election being held on August 14, 2012 and the General Election on November 6, 2012. The city is also looking for individuals to serve on the Absentee Ballot Board that will meet weekly during the absentee voting periods.
Election Judges are officials that staff local polling places, administer election procedures and ensure the rights of voters are protected on Election Day. Duties include but are not limited to: setting up the polling place, operating voting equipment, directing voters to the correct line, registering individuals to vote, ensuring qualified voters are permitted to vote, assisting voters, closing the polling place, determining the results after the polls close and certi-
fying the polling place results. Serving as an election judge is a great learning and civic opportunity for those citizens who want to be involved in their community. You do not have to be an active member of a political party, be a member of a board or commission or have previous volunteer experience. In fact, serving as an election judge or election judge trainee is a great way to boost your resume! You may qualify to serve as an election judge or election judge trainee if you are: A United States Citizen Able to read, write and speak English Going to be 16 years old or older on Election Day NOT the parent, child, spouse or sibling of a political candidate on the ballot Able to complete election duties in a fair and impartial manner
Roads Committee
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n January, the City Council appointed five citizens to serve two year terms on an ad hoc Road Committee. Meetings are listed on the calendar page of the City’s website and are open for public viewing.
This committee acts as an advisory board to the City Council regarding public streets and roads issues (both gravel and paved) in light of federal, state and local regulations. State, county and private streets and roads are not reviewed or considered by the committee. The Road Committee has an interest in creating a comprehensive Road Maintenance Plan and will be forwarding recommendations to the City Council in the near future.
Roads Committee members are volunteer appointees who do not collect a salary or stipend to perform their duties. The Road Committee consists of the following members: Chair Ralph Harrison [email protected] (952) 472—6828 Vice Chair Tim Lembke [email protected] (952) 472—2062 Guy Warner [email protected] Tom Donahue (612) 799—8017 Bill Holm (952) 472—6985
Much like Jury Duty, State law requires employers to permit you to take time off work or school without penalty (financial or otherwise) to serve as an election judge. Likewise, the stipend earned from serving as an election judge does not count towards unemployment income limits. Additional information can be found on the elections page of the city website. Or, contact Terri Haarstad, City Clerk, at City Hall with questions or concerns you may have. An application can be found on page 7 of this newsletter and is due by 4:30pm on May 15,2012.
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YOU ARE INVITED...
Open Book Meeting WHO: Minnetrista property owners WHEN: April 25, 2012 from 4:00 to 7:00pm. WHERE: City Hall in the City Council Chambers WHY: This meeting is intended to provide property owners with an opportunity to discuss area sales activity, and talk about their property’s value and/or class with a Hennepin County assessor.
Filing for Office nterested in becoming a candidate for office?
For federal and state offices, file at the Minnesota SecreG tary of State’s Office during regular office hours from May 22, 2012 through June 5, 2012. Contact the MN Secretary of State’s Office directly for additional information. For state, county and judicial offices, file with the Hennepin County Elections Division during regular office hours from May 22, 2012 through June 5, 2012. Contact the Hennepin County Elections directly for additional information. For school board offices, contact your school district office to determine the filing dates and process. Most school board candidate filings will take place between May 22, 2012 and June 5, 2012. To file for municipal office, complete an affidavit of candidacy and submit the required filing fee at Minnetrista City Hall during regular
office hours from 8:00am on July 31, 2012 through 5:00pm on August 14, 2012. The mayoral Office and two Minnetrista City Council positions will appear on the ballot in November 2012. As you plan campaign events, please be aware that a liquor license is required if you are serving alcohol and charging admission, asking for donations or collecting contributions. A liquor license takes up to 45 days to acquire. Contact Terri Haarstad, City Clerk, at City Hall for more information and an application at least 45 days prior to the event. Using a caterer licensed to serve alcohol would also meet legal requirements. Additionally, if you are expecting 300 or more people at attend your campaign event or if you require special city services (road closures, traffic control, parking permits, etc) a special event permit may be required. Permit applications can be downloaded from the city’s website.
Highland Road Project Please visit the city website to see a larger version of this map and to view updated information throughout the construction project.
The City of Minnetrista and St. Bonifacius have entered into a construction contract with Fehn Companies, Inc. for the reconstruction of Highland Road from CR 110 south approximately one mile. Removal of trees will take place mid April with roadway construction taking place the beginning of May. During roadway reconstruction, Highland Road will be closed to thru traffic. Access to properties adjacent to the proposed improvements will have access throughout construction from one direction or the other, with regular newsletters issued to them regarding status of the project. Police, fire, ambulance, US Postal Service, garbage haulers, and school district will also receive regular updates. Part of Highland Road is being
realigned to improve safety where it crosses the Dakota Rail Trail. A short segment of the Dakota Rail Trail will be closed for a period of time no longer than ten days. During the closure, trail users will be detoured on Kennedy Memorial Drive and that portion of Highland Road not being reconstructed (south of proposed improvements). Trail reconstruction must be completed by May 25. Substantial completion of the improvements is scheduled for August 30th, 2012 with the final completion date being September 28, 2012. Newsletters to property owners will be placed on the City’s website and can be a resource for anyone citywide looking for an update on the project status.
To Flush or Not to Flush Water $aving Tips
Adjust your lawn mower to a higher setting. A taller lawn shades roots and holds soil moisture better than if it is closely clipped. Water your plants deeply but less frequently to encourage deep root growth and drought tolerance. Adjust sprinklers so only your lawn is watered and not the house, sidewalk, or street. Use sprinklers that deliver big drops of water close to the ground. Smaller water drops and mist often evaporate before they hit the ground. Check your sprinkler system valves periodically for leaks and keep the sprinkler heads in good shape. Consider using drip irrigation for shrubs and trees to
apply water directly to the roots where it is needed. Install a rain sensor on your irrigation controller so your system won't run when it's raining. Minimize evaporation by watering your plants during early morning hours when temperatures are cooler and winds lighter. Lay down mulch to retain moisture. Plant in the fall when conditions are cooler and rainfall is more plentiful. Trickling or cascading fountains lose less water to evaporation than those spraying water into the air. Monitor your water bill and your water meter for unusually high use. Your bill and water meter are tools that can help you discover leaks.
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esidents are reminded to limit toilet usage to human waste and toilet paper that has been treated to be biodegradable. City staff in Minnetrista and surrounding communities have recently been finding everything from diapers and toys to mop heads and handiwipes blocking sanitary sewer pipes and pumps. Unfortunately, when these types of items are flushed, they cause major problems to the sewer system and cost taxpayers money.
heavy rain, runoff, or snow melt, the sewage can not flow past the debris fast enough to keep up with the volume. As a result, the untreated sewage backs up into homes, yards, streets and parks.
Items found blocking sewage pipes include: underwear, condoms, feminine products, handi -wipes, cloth cleaning towels, disposable diapers, toilet cleaning brushes, rubber gloves, medications, golf balls, rope, mop heads, paper towels, and more. Dental floss has proved When items that belong in the to be especially harmful as it trash are flushed, they get stuck wraps around the shafts of the and clog the pipes. The only pumps and causes additional way to stop the blockage is to damage to pump motors. remove the materials by hand. This costs taxpayers extra dol- The problem appears to be getting worse as more products are lars in staff time as well as in repair and replacement costs for listed as disposable. Fortuequipment damaged by the de- nately, this problem is 100% avoidable. Please keep in mind bris. that disposable items are inDuring normal usage times, tended to be placed in the trash sewage can occasionally flow and not in the toilet. Thank you past the debris at a slower rate. for your assistance! However, during times of
Utility Rate Changes As discussed in the first newsletter of 2012, the Sewer Utility and Surface Water Management (previously titled Storm Water) rates have changed for 2012. The new amounts of $95 per quarter for the Sewer Utility (for residential users the base rate is the flat rate) and $18 per quarter for the Surface Water Management Utility were reflected on the first quarter utility bills that went out. The surface water/storm water quarterly fee had not
been adjusted since 2004. These adjustments were needed to help with low cash balances in the above enterprise funds, increasing mandates from other agencies, completing required surface water projects identified in our surface water management plan, and are in conjunction and consistent with our utility financial management plan. For additional information, visit the City website or call City Hall at (952) 446-1660.
Locate before you Excavate! Did you know that to protect your underground utilities as well as the public, MN state law (Chapter 216D) requires you to call 651.454.0002 or 1.800.252.1166 to contact Gopher State One Call before you dig on your property. Utility providers with infrastructure in your work area will then mark with paint or flags the approximate horizontal location of your underground utilities on or before your legal start time.
of all the utilities that were notified and be able to see if they have marked the job site. Excavators are required to maintain a minimum horizontal (side to side) clearance of two feet (24") between an unexposed facility and the cutting edge or point of any power operated excavating or earth-moving equipment.
If a utility is accidentally hit, please immediately evacuate everyone in the area, call 911 and the affected Before digging, contact Gopher State utility provider. One Call to obtain a ticket with a list
Watering Restrictions REMINDER: Outdoor odd/even watering restrictions begin on May 1st and are in effect through September 30th. Homeowners whose address ends in an odd number may water their lawn using the public water supply only on odd numbered calendar days. Homeowners whose address ends in an even number may water their lawn using the public water supply only on even numbered calendar days. In addition, City Code (700.33) states that “no person shall Irrigate using the public water supply between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. on any day of the week. This Time of Day Restriction applies to established lawns, vegetation, shrubs, trees and gardens and also applies to new sod and seed UNLESS written permission to Irrigate during the restricted times
is obtained from the city administrator or his or her designee.” City water customers are permitted to wash cars and water shrubs, trees and gardens with a handheld hose. These restrictions also do NOT apply to homeowners who use private sources of water (a well) and are not using the public water supply. The restrictions also make an exception for recreational use, such as children running through a sprinkler. Please be aware, however, that water toys or sprinklers must be present and children must be actively playing with the toys or sprinklers. Violations may result in a misdemeanor citation. Please contact city hall with any questions you may have.
City Calendar Meetings start at 7:00pm unless otherwise specified. For updated meeting information and additional details please visit the city website. April 2012 2 - CC Special Meeting 5:30p 2 - City Council 10 - Park Commission 16 - City Council 23 - Planning Commission 24 - Road Committee 3:00p 25—Open Book meeting 4p—7p 27 - Land Use Applications due 4:30pm May 2012 7 - CC Special Meeting 5:30p 7 - City Council 8 - Park Commission 12 - Recycle Clean-up Day 8a—3p 15 - Election Judge apps due 15 - Utility Bills due by 4:30pm 19 - Trista Day 11a - 2p 21 - City Council 22 - Rain Garden Workshop 6:00p 25 - Land Use Applications due 4:30pm 28 - Memorial Day City Offices closed 29 - Planning Commission June 2012 4 - CC Special Meeting 5:30p 4 - City Council 12 - Park Commission 18 - City Council 21 - Required election judge training opt 1 (TBD) 22 - Land Use Applications due 4:30pm 25 - Planning Commission 29 - Absentee voting begins / Primary Election July 2012 2 - CC Special Meeting 5:30p 2 - City Council 4 - Independence Day City Offices closed 10 - Park Commission 10 - Required election judge training opt 2 (TBD) 11 - Required election judge training opt 3 (TBD) 16 - City Council 23 - Planning Commission 24 - Last day to pre-register to vote 5:00p 27 - Land Use Applications due 4:30pm 31 - Road Committee 3:00p 31 - Filing for municipal offices open City Hall Looking ahead August 7 - National Night Out August 9 - Public Accuracy Testing of election equipment 9:00a August 14 - Filing for municipal offices closes 5:00p August 14 - State Primary Election 7a - 8p September 21 - Absentee voting begins November 6 - General Election 7:00a - 8:00p
Living with Coyotes
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Mark your calendars for our Spring Clean-up Recycle Day to be held on Saturday, May 12, 2012 from 8:00am to 3:00pm Minnetrista City Hall. This recycling event is co-sponsored by the cities of Minnetrista and Mound and is open to all residents of the surrounding area. Identification is not required. Acceptable items include: used appliances, scrap metal, furniture, carpet, electronics, tires, plastic toys, fluorescent bulbs, computer components, Styrofoam, and concrete. Some of these items can be dropped off
ardly any animal in America is more adaptable to changing conditions than the coyote and one of the keys to its success is its diet. A true scavenger, the coyote will eat just about anything. Identified as a killer of small livestock, poultry and deer, the coyote will also eat snakes, foxes, rodents, rabbits, birds, frogs, grasshoppers, pet food, pet cats, pet dogs, carrion, fruits, vegetables, doughnuts, sandwiches and just plain garbage.
Coyotes look like small collies or German Shepherds. They have erect pointed ears, slender muzzle and a bushy tail. Most coyotes are brownish gray in color with a light gray to cream-colored belly. However, a coyote’s color varies and may be somewhat darker or lighter depending on the time of the year. According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, there has never been a coyote attack on a human being in Minnesota. However, if you enjoy seeing coyotes and want a closer look, please use binoculars. Do not ever put out food to lure them. Nearly all wild animal bites occur when people attempt to feed or treat wild animals as domestic animals. All wild animals are unpredictable and caution is the watchword when coyotes are around. In areas where they are hunted or trapped, coyotes are very wary of human beings. However, in urban and suburban areas, they are more likely to associate people with an easy and dependable source of food and they can be very bold. In fact, they can come right up to the door of a house if food is regularly present. Unfortunately, wild animals that lose
Recycle Clean-up Day
their fear of humans are more likely to pose a danger to humans and the lifespan of such an animal is shortened. Taking the following steps may reduce the chance of humancoyote conflicts: Do NOT feed coyotes Do NOT allow pets to run free. Keep them safely confined and provide secure nighttime housing for them. Walk you pets on a leash and accompany your pet outside, especially at night. Feed pets indoors whenever possible. Pick up any leftovers if feeding outdoors. Store pet and livestock feed where it is inaccessible to wildlife. Bird feeders should be positioned so that coyotes can’t get to the feed. They are attracted by bread, table scraps and seed. They may also be attracted by the birds and rodents that come to the feeders. Secure garbage containers and eliminate garbage odors. Trim and clean, near ground level, any shrubbery that provides hiding cover for coyotes or their prey. If you see a coyote acting aggressively, please call 9-1-1.
at no charge. Other items require a small fee to help with disposal costs. Paper shredding will be available from 11am until 1:00pm only. Please be aware that brush, leaves, construction waste, household hazardous waste, insulation, lumber, newspaper, wood, treated lumber and gas refrigerators can not be accepted at this event. Visit the City website for a complete listing of accepted items. Call City Hall with any questions you may have.
Drinking Water Report
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he City of Minnetrista expects to receive, in the month of May, the results of monitoring done on its drinking water for the period from January 1 to December 31, 2011. The purpose of this report is to advance consumers’ understanding of drinking water and heighten awareness of the need to protect precious water resources.
Source of Water Minnetrista’s drinking water comes from a groundwater source: four wells ranging from 253 to 787 feet deep, that draw water from the Franconia-Mt. Simon and Quaternary Buried Artesian aquifers.
reasonably be expected to contain at least small amounts of some contaminants. The presence of contaminants does not necessarily indicate that water poses a health risk. The water provided to Minnetrista residents meets drinking water standards. No contaminants were detected in the water at levels that violated federal drinking water standards. However, the Minnesota Department of Health has also made a determination as to how vulnerable the source of water may be to future contamination incidents and notifies customers of contaminants that were detected in trace amounts that were below legal limits.
For the complete 2011 Drinking Water Report, watch the legal In order to ensure that tap water notices in The Laker and the city is safe to drink, the United website. Copies will also be States Environmental Protection available for viewing at MinnetAgency (EPA) prescribes regurista City Hall during regular lations which limit the amount business hours. of certain contaminants in water provided by public water sysIf you have questions about the tems. Food and Drug AdminiCity of Minnetrista drinking stration (FDA) regulations eswater or would like information tablish limits for contaminants about opportunities for public in bottled water which must participation in decisions that provide the same protection for may affect the quality of the public health. Drinking water, water, call 952-446-1660. including bottled water, may Results of Monitoring
Dust Reduction Roads that carry a high volume of traffic will receive one citypaid dust reduction treatment this spring as part of the twoyear pilot initiative approved by the City Council in 2011. Roads identified as meeting the high volume criteria include: Halstead Dr, Sunnyfield Road E, North Branch Rd, Westbranch Rd and Blair Rd. If a second treatment is desired, residents will need to submit the application form and associated fee. Residents who live on gravel roads that have not been identified as having high traffic volume can receive dust reduction treatment by submitting an application and associated fee
to City Hall by May 4, 2012. Dust reduction treatments are effective in reducing dust and also cause the roadway to be harder. In order to preserve this investment, the city will be grading treated roads less frequently. As such, residents can expect more potholes and bumps to form and the road to be in rougher condition. For safety reasons, the City reserves the right to grade gravel roads regardless of whether or not dust reduction treatment was applied. Applications can be found on the city website or obtained by calling City Hall.
Financial Award
Mini-Grants For Groups Submitted by Minnesota Waters
The Minnehaha Watershed District (MCWD), in partnership with the state-wide non-profit Minnesota Waters, is bringing dollars, resources and expertise to local citizens who want to provide and protect clean water. The program provides mini-grants to help both new and existing groups take action on issues important to them, such as preventing the spread of zebra mussels or reducing the amount of polluted runoff. The Seed
Fund provides administrative support and $500 in start-up support to help groups cover the cost of outreach, obtain non-profit status and hold a community kick-off meeting. For more information about this program, contact Alex Gehrig the metro area program coordinator for Minnesota Waters at (651) 278-7117 or view information on MCWD’s website www.minnehahacreek.org/ what-can-i-do.
Curbside Recycling
cartons and juice boxes are We are excited to announce now accepted. Remember to that Waste Management is rinse all containers thornow able to accept a wider oughly. Please do NOT inrange of items to recycle. clude plastic grocery bags; Previously, plastics marked most grocery and department with only numbers 1 and 2 stores will accept them for (inside the chasing arrows) recycling. If you have queswere accepted. Now, items tions about what you may, or marked 3-7 may also be inmay not recycle, visit cluded. Some of these items wmtwincities.com. Or call include yogurt containers, Submitted by Metro Blooms margarine tubs and lids. CarWaste Management at cost rain garden workshops Get ready for spring by plantons such as milk and juice (952) 890-1100. since 2005,” said Metro Blooms ning a garden that beautifies Executive Director Becky Rice. your yard and helps keep our water clean. Whether you are an “More than 5,000 residents have attended our workshops experienced gardener or have and over 2,000 rain gardens never tried gardening before, Dispose of Them at County Drop Box! have been installed.” this eco-friendly gardening workshop will help you learn Submitted by Hennepin County Environmental Services Tuesday, May 22, 2012 how to: 6-9 PM Proper disposal of medicines is important to protect Use native plants in your small children, family pets and the environment. Minnetrista Public Safety garden landscape Training Center There is now a conveniently located free drop-off site 7651 County Road 110W Limit fertilizers and pestifor unused medicines located at the: Minnetrista, MN 55364 cides without compromising a beautiful yard Hennepin County Sheriff’s Water Patrol facilInstructor: Michael Keenan, Capture rainwater on site Metro Blooms Lead Landscape ity with rain gardens Designer 4141 Shoreline Blvd. in Spring Park Workshop fee: $15 Redirect your downspouts Prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, Plan your own garden with one- To register for the gardening supplements, and pet medicines are accepted. Leave on-one assistance from landworkshop call 651.698.1390 or medications in original packaging or containers. scape designers visit www.metroblooms.org. The City of Minnetrista has received its seventh Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting (CAFR) Award from the Government Finance Officers Association.
Awards are presented to government units whose Comprehensive Annual Financial Reports achieve the highest standards in governmental accounting and financial reporting.
Rain garden Workshop
Unused Medicines?
“Metro Blooms has been partnering with Twin Cities Metro communities to provide low-
Sponsored by the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District and the City of Minnetrista.
Please call 612.348.3777 or visit www.hennepin.us/medicine for further instructions.
The Teddy Bear Band Mounted Patrol
Saturday, May 19, 2012 11:00am—2:00pm Minnetrista Police Department 7651 County Road 110 W
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rista Day started in 2001 as an attempt to get safety information to kids in our community. We quickly learned that helicopters and hot dogs draw a lot of kids and adults as well. This proved to be a great opportunity to educate our community on issues like seat belt use, air bag safety, gun safety, fire prevention, theft prevention, first aid, water safety, park and trail safety, victim services, DWI prevention and many other safety topics. At its heart Trista Day has always been a safety education event. An added bonus is that it's been a lot of fun. Over the years, Trista Day has evolved to include more of the businesses in our area and what they have to offer. We also provide information on all of our City operations. Trista Day is a great family friendly event that continues to add more and more every year. If you've never attended Trista Day, please join us this year! If you have a local business or organization and would like to have a space at Trista Day or if you would like to help make Trista Day a success by volunteering your time, contact the Police Department at (952) 446 - 1131.
7701 County Road 110W Minnetrista, MN 55364
Westonka Early Childhood
Education MADD Crash Car Ambulance Water Patrol Helicopter Landing McGruff the Crime Dog Karate board breaking demos St. Boni Fire Dept Mound Fire Dept Minnetrista Police Mound Police FREE food, gunlocks, tree saplings, child ID kits, bounce house, balloons, fire extinguisher recharges, child safety seat info & MUCH, MUCH MORE!
PRESORT STD U.S. Postage PAID Mound, MN Permit No. 89
Phone: 952-446-1660 Fax: 952-446-1311 Email: [email protected] Web Page: www.ci.minnetrista.mn.us
This newsletter was published in accordance with the City of Minnetrista’s Publication Policy which may be viewed in its entirety on the City’s website at www.ci.minnetrista.mn.us or during regular business hours at Minnetrista City Hall; 7701 Co. Rd 110 W; Minnetrista, MN 55364.
