Fall 2020 Hometown Messenger

PARKS & RECREATION Shakopee parks go tobacco free In July, the Shakopee City Council adopted

an ordinance prohibiting tobacco use in all city-owned parks and shelters. The

ordinance also prohibits smoking on the grounds of SandVenture Aquatic Park, Shakopee Ice Arena and the Shakopee Community Center. The ordinance does not

prohibit residents from using tobacco when inside their vehicles in a park. The ordinance was proposed by Shakopee High School students taking part in a Generation Now class. The class invites students to partner with city and county officials to examine and propose solutions to local challenges facing the community. Last spring, four students – Marissa Brown, Lily Fitch, Claire Flattum and Jacinda Kurian – researched ways to help curb an increase in tobacco use among younger adults. They recommended the city establish an ordinance tobacco use in city parks. The students touted both environmental and health benefits for prohibiting tobacco. Tobacco product litter is dangerous to birds, fish and children, and cigarette wastes are not biodegradable, remaining visible until they are removed. The students’ presentation was reviewed by city staff to help draft a citywide ordinance. The city will be adding signage to ensure park visitors are aware of the change. Parks on the Go coming to your neighborhood This September, Shakopee Parks and Recreation is bringing the fun to neighborhood parks with pop-up family friendly activities throughout the city. Watch for more information about Parks on the Go on the city website and Parks and Recreation Facebook page.

City explores improvements to SandVenture Aquatic Park While SandVenture Aquatic Park is closed this summer, city staff have been exploring ways to provide the facility with necessary maintenance and enhance it for future years. SANDVENTURE AQUATIC PARK

In July, the City Council directed staff to move forward with basic maintenance to keep the facility operational. City staff plan to do a feasibility study to analyze the facility's current condition and develop a work plan for repairing and renovating the facility. The council already approved upgrading the park's chlorination system, which will reduce the need to store gas chlorine. The feasibility study will also look at potential future upgrades in line with the Parks, Trails and Recreation Master Plan. City staff hope to develop a master plan for amenities, features and

Built in 1968 for approximately $200,000 300-foot water slide added in 1985, replaced in 2008 Facility renovated in 2006-07 19,387 visitors in 2019

attractions that would enhance visitor experience. These improvements could include additional water features, new bathrooms and changing areas, restaurant/patio and more. The sand-bottom pool opened in 1969 and today is one of only 12 in the state. Spooky Family Fun Night moves to Lions Park Get ready for a spooky night of Halloween fun as everyone's favorite fall bash moves to Lions Park from 3 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24.

The outdoor event will include pumpkin painting, flashlight pumpkin hunt, cookie walk, trick-or-treating and more. To ensure compliance with state health guidelines, registration is required at www.ShakopeeMN.gov/ registration. Admission is $5 per person.

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