Shakopee Snapshot: Spring 2024

SHAKOPEE SNAPSHOT A LENS ON SHAKOPEE LIVING

SPRING 2024

Democracy in action What you need to know about voting in 2024 Taking fitness to Scenic Heights Pickleball, fitness courts coming to park

Mental wellness in policing PD awarded grant for mental health

INSIDE: PARKS & RECREATION SPRING/SUMMER ACTIVITIES BROCHURE PROGRAM REGISTRATION OPENS MARCH 12 AT 6 a.m.

IN LEHMAN’S TERMS A message from the Mayor of Shakopee

CITY CALENDAR MARCH 12 Parks & Rec program registration opens 23 Egg Hunt & Candy Grab: 1–2:30 p.m., Tahpah Park APRIL 1 Winter parking regulations end 8–12 Severe Weather Awareness Week: Tornado drill on April 11 27 Clean Up Day: 7:30–11:30 a.m., Shakopee Public Works 27 Tree Sale Pick-Up: 1–3 p.m., Shakopee Public Works MAY 1 55+ Resource Open House: 1–3 p.m., Community Center 18 Bark in the Park: 10 a.m.–Noon, Quarry Lake Park, registration required 27 Memorial Day: City offices and Community Center closed 29 SHS Jazz Band Performance: 7 p.m., Huber Park Amphitheater 30 Wheelies Family Bike Event: 5–7 p.m., Quarry Lake Park JUNE 1 Night to Unite registration opens: See city website 6 Huber Park Performance & Event Series begins: 7 p.m., Huber Park Amphitheater 12 Active Older Adults Music & Ice Cream Social: 1-3 p.m., Community Center, registration required 12 Picnic with Police: 5–8 p.m., Lions Park JULY 3 Happy Birthday America Parade: 10:30 a.m., Lions Park AUGUST 6 Night to Unite: 5–8 p.m., city-wide Please note, events are subject to cancellation or changes due to the current public health guidelines by the CDC and Minnesota Department of Health. Find the latest city calendar at www.ShakopeeMN.gov/calendar .

Hello Shakopee!

As my mother always said, “The transition from winter to spring is full of signs of renewal.”

Mayor Matt Lehman

Things turn green again, and the garden/growing seasons start anew. People get outside walking and biking, which reminds me: Please be alert to more pedestrian activity and be extra cautious around our schools, buses, and community activities. I don’t know about you, but many of us are probably looking forward to backyard recreational fires, BBQs, and other outdoor activities. Another bonus: March 31 marks the end of the winter season parking restrictions, yippie! There are so many great things that are happening in Shakopee. Some of the highlights are the Egg Hunt and Candy Grab on Saturday, March 23; our Spring Clean Up Day on Saturday, April 27; the month of May brings the Bark in the Park event and the Wheelies Family Bike Event; and in June we can all celebrate summer with a Picnic with the Police. Find information about all these events on the city website at www.ShakopeeMN.gov . Calendar listings are on the bottom of the home page. The Parks and Recreation spring and summer brochure on the opposite side of this book will list programming opportunities for all kinds of summer fun. The city website and Parks and Rec brochure are the go-to places for details for these and many more opportunities for spring and summer fun. In closing, please remember that if you take an action that helps and/or benefits our community, we’d love for you to contact a council member (or myself) to be recognized. A Shakopee lapel pin may be awarded. It’s all our community, and everyone can make a difference. Matt Lehman Mayor of Shakopee mlehman@ShakopeeMN.gov

CONTACT US MAYOR MattLehman............. mlehman@ShakopeeMN.gov COUNCIL MEMBERS Angelica Contreras. . . . . . . . . . acontreras@ShakopeeMN.gov JimDuLaney.............. jdulaney@ShakopeeMN.gov JesseLara................. jlara@ShakopeeMN.gov JayWhiting................... 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................... www.ShakopeeMN.gov The Shakopee Snapshot is produced four times a year by the City of Shakopee. The Summer 2024 edition will be available online at www.ShakopeeMN.gov/snapshot . Comments or suggestions can be directed to the editor, Amanda McKnight, at amcknight@ShakopeeMN.gov .

4 Shakopee Snapshot

2024

FREE, FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT ALONG THE RIVERFRONT!

May 29

7 p.m.

Shakopee High School Jazz Band High School Jazz Band Mitchell Hall & Tennessee Trio Johnny Cash Tribute Band Shakopee JCI’s Taste of Shakopee

June 6

7 p.m.

June 13

4–9 p.m.

June 13 6–8:30 p.m. Tuxedo Band Cover Band June 20 7 p.m. Salsa del Soul Latin Dance June 27 7 p.m.

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South of the River Community Band Orchestra

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July 11

7 p.m.

Prairie Potluck Band Bluegrass Westwind Swing Band Classic Swing Era The Canyon Cowboys Country

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July 18

7 p.m.

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July 25

7 p.m.

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August 1

7 p.m.

MN State Band Orchestra

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August 8

7 p.m.

Charlie Sticha Band Polka Walz Country Band

August 15

7 p.m.

Solid Gold Band Classic Rock ‘n’ Roll

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August 17

Dusk Movie in the Park Movie to be Determined

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August 22

7 p.m.

Concert Rain Date

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W Huber Park, 150 Fillmore St. N. www.ShakopeeMN.gov | 952-233-9500 Schedule subject to change | Weather Hotline 952-233-9502 e s

SHAKOPEE SNAPSHOT A LENS ON SHAKOPEE LIVING

SPRING 2024

CITY NEWSLETTER Democracy in action. . . . . . 3 City Calendar. . . . . . . . . . 4 In Lehman’s Terms . . . . . . . 4 Spring Load Restrictions. . . . 5 2024 Show Off Shakopee PhotoContest. . . . . . . . . 5 News&Notes. . . . . . . . . . 5 AsktheCity.. . . . . . . . . . 6 Parks & Recreation. . . . . . . 7 Development News. . . . . . 8–9 Public Works. . . . . . . . 10–12 Public Safety. . . . . . . . . . 13 Chief's Notes. . . . . . . . . . 13

Cover Photo: A community member enjoys the Shakopee Skate Park, located at 1255 Fuller St. S.

City Clerk Lori Hensen hosts a training class for student election judges.

Democracy in action What you need to know about voting in 2024 This year is a busy one when it comes to elections, with the presidential caucuses and nominating primaries already behind us and yet another primary and the general election still ahead. So what do Shakopee residents need to know about casting their ballot in 2024? WHEN AND WHERE TO VOTE In 2024, Primary Election Day is Tuesday, Aug. 13, and General Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 5. To cast a ballot on an Election Day, eligible voters need to vote at their local Shakopee polling loca tion, also known as a precinct. Voters can determine their polling location by visiting pollfinder.sos. state.mn.us and entering their address.

Going to be busy or out of town on Election Day? No problem! Early voting is offered for both the primary and general elections. Eligible voters can cast their ballot at Shakopee City Hall (485 Gorman St.) well ahead of Election Day. The City will have trained election judges available to assist voters. Early voting for the Primary Election will begin Fri day, June 28, and early voting for the General Elec tion will begin Friday, Sept. 20.

"Whether you want to avoid a wait at the polls or are going on vacation over Election Day—the option to vote early can come in handy for a lot of reasons." Lori Hensen City Clerk

FIND US ONLINE AT: www.ShakopeeMN.gov

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

Continued on page 6

Spring 2024 3

Watch for spring load restrictions Temperatures will dictate restriction timeline

of spring load restrictions. The exact dates that seasonal load restrictions go into effect and are removed vary depending on annual temperature variations. Spring load restrictions for the City of Sha kopee Streets are based on the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) Metro Seasonal Load Limit Zone starting and ending dates. Once announced, garbage and recy cling collection will be moved from alleyways to the street until restrictions are removed. To stay aware and informed, check the state restrictions at www.dot.state.mn.us/load limits or visit the City’s website at www.Sha kopeeMN.gov and check under the “News” section on the home page.

With spring approaching, please be mindful of any potential spring load restrictions on City of Shakopee streets. These restrictions keep our roads in good con dition and often affect garbage and recycling pickup locations. The two primary causes for premature deterioration of roadway pave ment are weather and traffic load. As the frost is leaving the ground during the spring thaw every year, the gravel under the roadbed has high moisture content, which weakens the load-carrying capacity of the pavement. To protect and prolong the service life of the roadways, axle weight restrictions are imposed during the spring thaw every year, when the roadbeds are most vulnerable to damage. This winter’s unseasonably warm weather has the potential to affect the typical timeline The annual Show Off Shakopee photo contest is back, and this year we’re announcing the categories in advance to give photographers more opportunities to find that perfect shot before the September submission period. The 2024 Show Off Shakopee categories are: ■ Uniquely Shakopee —What do you think sets Shakopee apart from other cities? ■ Community Connections —From public expressions of joy to neighbors gathering at a block party, showcase the vibrant spirit of human connection within our community. ■ Wildlife & Nature —Let Mother Nature set the scene while you capture it! ■ Budding Photographer —New in 2024, this category is for youth photographers ages 17 or younger, and the subject of the photos can be anything in Shakopee.

How Can I Help You? Meet Corey Murray, a Firefighter and Lieutenant in the Fire Department. Q: What do you do for the city? A: As a firefighter, I respond to emergencies, perform fire inspections, perform equipment checks and minor maintenance, ensure professional maintenance cleaning and supply of all Firefighters PPE and SCBAs, and perform quality control review of all incident reports produced by SFD. As a lieutenant, I respond to emergencies as the company officer for the duty engine, I lead company trainings and shift work, and I also respond as a command officer in a squad car on occasional weekends. Q: What do you enjoy about working for the city? A: Since I live in Shakopee, I enjoy being able to give back to my own community. It gives me a sense of ownership and pride that I don’t think I would get if I didn’t both live and work here. Q: What’s the best part of your job? A: To me the best part is my coworkers. We hold each other to a high standard and support one another to achieve that standard thanks to the leadership of our chief officers. My fellow firefighters and the other company officers are also the people who either taught me how to be a firefighter or learned with me. I truly feel my coworkers are my second family.

Help us capture the essence of Shakopee Plan your photos now for the 2024 Show Off Shakopee photo contest

SHOW OFF SHAKOPEE PHOTO CONTEST

2024

The winners of each category will each win $50, and the overall grand prize winner will win $100. The winning photos will be displayed in the Shakopee City Hall lobby and also used in City of Shakopee publica tions throughout the coming year. For a full list of contest guidelines, rules, and a photo contest guide on how to make your photos stand out to the judges, visit www. ShakopeeMN.gov/showoffshakopee . As in past years, the photo submission period will be open on the city website for the entire month of September.

NEWS & NOTES

NEW EMPLOYEES JOIN CITY STAFF Join us in welcoming these new employees to the City of Shakopee: ■ Alexandria Anderson , Community Engagement Coordinator ■ Kevin Peterson , Mechanic ■ Lindsey Vugteveen , Environmental Technician—Water Resources ■ Jason Marshall , Fleet Foreperson ■ Kelsi McNutt , Director of Parks and Recreation ■ Damian Papenfuss-Pruitt , Police Officer ■ Lucas Willis , Police Officer

WANT TO KNOW WHAT’S GOING ON? Follow the City’s social media accounts! This is one of the most effective ways to remain informed about City of Shakopee projects, initiatives, and events.

Scan the QR code with your smartphone’s camera app to view a list of links to the City’s various social media channels.

Spring 2024 5

Continued from page 3 “People really seem to enjoy the flexibility of being able to drop by City Hall to vote early,” said City Clerk Lori Hensen, who oversees the election process for the City of Shako pee. “Whether you want to avoid a wait at the polls or are going on vacation over Elec tion Day—the option to vote early can come in handy for a lot of reasons.” Mail-in voting is also available. Voters can request an absentee ballot for mail-in vot ing by contacting the Secretary of State at mnvotes.sos.mn.gov . Mail-in ballots must be received by the Scott County Govern ment Center by the day before the election and can be mailed to: Scott County, MN HOW EARLY VOTING WORKS Visit www.ShakopeeMN.gov/elections and click on the red “Absentee/Early Voting” But ton to view early voting hours. Typically, early voting is available from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekdays leading up to election days, with additional hours the weekend prior to the election. Early voters will enter City Hall and take an immediate right to find the polling stations down the hall. The front desk receptionist will also be happy to assist if needed. Early voters must complete a ballot applica tion on site, which typically takes less than three minutes. The City’s trained election judges will review and process the application and provide instructions on how to properly fill out and submit the ballot. The City has several voting booths available for voters to complete their ballot selections. When the voter is finished, they must place the ballot in a locked ballot tabulator; if it’s an absentee ballot, it will need to be sealed Government Center 200 Fourth Ave. W. Shakopee, MN 55379

in an envelope before being placed in a locked ballot box. The entire process typically takes less than

“Early voting really opens up the election process to be more inclusive so anyone who wants to cast a ballot has ample opportunity to do so, as opposed to an 11-hour window one day of the year,” Hensen said. “At the end of the day, I just want as many people as pos sible to take advantage of their right to vote, and early voting can help facilitate that.”

10 minutes, according to Hensen. WHAT’S ON THE BALLOT

On a state and national level, the 2024 gen eral election will determine who will rep resent Shakopee in the U.S. House of Rep resentatives, U.S. Senate, and Minnesota House, as well as the presidency. On the local level, this year’s election will determine who will represent Shakopee on the Scott County Board of Commissioners, City Council, and School Board. Being that this is a presidential election year with high voter turnout anticipated, Hensen urges voters to take advantage of the early voting opportunities at City Hall.

Get civically involved! The City of Shakopee is seeking elec tion judges for the 2024 elections. Election judges help the election pro cess run smoothly by verifying voters are in the correct polling location, help ing register voters, obtaining signa tures, handing out ballots, and show ing how to use the ballot machines. Election judges are paid $12 an hour, with head judges paid $15 an hour. To serve as an election judge, you must be a U.S. citizen, at least 16 years old on Election Day, a resident of Minne sota for 20 days, and attend a required training session. High school students ages 16 and 17 can serve as student, or trainee, election judges and are also paid $12 an hour. Visit www.ShakopeeMN.gov/elections to fill out an interest form.

Several voting booths will be available at City Hall for those wishing to vote early in the 2024 primary and general elections.

#AsktheCity

CRIME PREVENTION SERVICES

While responding to incidents of crime is a big part of the Shakopee Police Department’s job, crime prevention is a high priority within the department and community.

Q: WHAT IS CRIME PREVENTION? A: Crime prevention involves proactive measures to deter criminal activities ranging from graffiti to burglary. Through education and awareness of one’s surroundings, we can help remove the opportu nity for crime to occur. Q: WHAT CRIME PREVENTION RESOURCES DOES THE SHAKOPEE PD OFFER? A: The department hosts events like Bark in the Park and Night to Unite to provide not only resources, but also opportunities to build rela tionships among community members and law enforcement officers. The department also provides home security assessments and crime

prevention presentations by request, and it has scholarships available for eligible community members seeking treatment for drugs or alcohol. Q: HOW CAN I HELP WITH CRIME PREVENTION? A: Our entire community plays a vital role by remaining mindful and vigilant in public, staying informed, and securing their homes and vehicles. That’s how we’ve achieved Shakopee’s lowest crime rate ever in recent years! The Police Department encourages a collaborative approach for community safety. To learn more about the City’s crime prevention efforts and associated programs, visit www.ShakopeeMN.gov/crimeprevention .

6 Shakopee Snapshot

PARKS & RECREATION From teen lifeguard to Parks and Recreation Director Meet Shakopee’s new head of the parks department, Kelsi McNutt

Kelsi McNutt was less than thrilled when her parents ‘voluntold’ her to attend lifeguard training class during spring break when she was just 15 years old, but without becoming a lifeguard, McNutt may not have become who she is today: the City of Shakopee’s new Director of Parks and Recreation. “I now reflect on that decision to attend lifeguard training with grati tude as it served as the catalyst for my career trajectory,” McNutt said. McNutt comes to the City of Shakopee from neighboring Chaska, where she was the Community Center Manager for the last five years. Prior to that, she held a variety of roles in recreation departments, pri marily focusing on aquatics and facilities management. McNutt is a certified lifeguard still today. “I truly enjoyed my job as a lifeguard and swim instructor, which I worked all through high school and college. As I explored other career paths, I was always drawn back to the field of Parks and Recre ation,” she explained. Parks and Recreation departments have always stood out to McNutt as the one city department entrusted with delivering fun and leisure services to the community, which makes her job even more enjoyable. “Being able to lead a department in providing this service for a com munity has been a career goal of mine for a long time,” McNutt said. “Throughout my career, I’ve found great satisfaction in serving the central ‘hub’ of a community.” It’s no small leap to change careers and move from Texas to Minne sota. But for Alex Anderson, the city’s new community engagement coordinator, that leap was exactly what she was looking for. “I just transitioned out of working in higher education. I wanted to have a job with a greater reach with the people I serve. Community engagement is just that type of position I was looking for.” Anderson has a Master’s in Educational Leadership and Policy from the University of Texas in Arlington and spent the last 10 years work ing in higher education. She was most recently a senior academic advisor at the University of North Texas. This background in education helped her build strong career skills that translate to community engagement. “Many of my jobs involved connection and relationship building and that is the heart and soul of what the community engagement coordi nator does,”she said.“Moving to a new state means I want to meet peo ple and form a community, and living in and working for Shakopee is the perfect way to do that for both my personal and professional goals.” Anderson steps into this new role with high expectations and hopes. “I want to continue to nurture the current relationships the city has with local businesses and residents but also create new and dynamic ones that keep pace with how Shakopee is growing and changing.” One way she plans to cultivate growth is through building on Shako pee’s already excellent community participation. “Bringing more voices to the table encourages new ideas for engag ing our community in creative ways,” she explained. “The more the

Though she’s excited to hit the ground running, McNutt said her top priority for the first year in her role will be to listen and learn. “I am excited to learn about the Shakopee community, various city departments, the parks and recreation team, and how we fit into making Shakopee a great community to live in,” she said. Kelsi McNutt was most recently the Community Center Manager for the City of Chaska.

Shakopee’s new Community Engagement Coordinator is ready to build and strengthen connections

members of our community that come to events, volunteer, and make connections with our local businesses, the more Shakopee goes from just a place we live to a city we love, and that is a shift in mindset I think is important for everyone to have.” As she has begun to build relationships with our businesses and resi dents, Shakopee has already made a positive impression on Ander son. One of the biggest impacts? How people outside the Shakopee community talk to her about all Shakopee has to offer. “From Valleyfair or the Renaissance Festival, to all the small shops and new development and how nice the city is kept; so many people have spoken so well about this town and how great of a place it is.”

Alex Anderson comes to Shakopee from Texas, with a background in higher education.

Spring 2024 7

PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT

‘What’s going there?’ Pickleball, fitness court coming to Scenic Heights Park 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: ARBOR BLUFF

The first phase of the Arbor Bluff single-family subdivision is being constructed south of Valley View Road and west of Independence Drive. The developer, Lennar, plans to develop 41 acres of land in the first phase with 54 single family lots, two outlot areas, and 13 acres of open space. The open space is comprised of a wooded bluff and creek area where Lennar will install 5,000 feet of trail system. Ultimately, the development is proposed to be built out in four phases, with 196 single family lots once completed.

JACKSON COMMONS PARK Jackson Commons Park is in the planning phase as of early spring 2024, with mass grading of the park site expected to happen sometime this spring and park construction in the fall. The park will be developed by the City, in part nership with Jackson Township, and located near the intersection of Zumbro Avenue and County Road 78. Concept plans include asphalt trails encir cling the wetland area, passive areas for bird or butterfly watching, a sledding hill, play ground, and possibly a bike skills course. The City is seeking public input and feedback on the concept plans for the park. To learn more about the project and provide feedback, visit Engage.ShakopeeMN.gov . The public input period will close in late March.

8 Shakopee Snapshot

PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT

BOARDWALK AND STABLES A 19,000-square-foot restaurant and enter tainment venue adjacent to the Canterbury Park Racetrack is scheduled to begin con struction sometime this spring. Boardwalk and Stables will be home to a res taurant; space for private events and music with a mezzanine for food service; and an outdoor patio with an outdoor game area, bar, and firepit. Altogether, the restaurant and venue will have seats for approximately 500 guests. The developer is planning for 234 park ing spaces, with additional on-street park ing along Shenandoah Drive and Schenian Street. Canterbury Park has also stated they will offer shuttle services or allow additional parking on its site if the amount of parking at Boardwalk and Stables is inadequate.

SCENIC HEIGHTS PARK Scenic Heights Park continues to see improve ments, and this spring that includes the instal lation of a fitness court, as well as pickleball courts. The City of Shakopee received a $50,000 grant from the National Fitness Campaign to help fund the addition of the fitness court. The court features equipment that provides users a full-body workout in seven zones: core, squat, push, lunge, pull, agility, and bend. It also has a flat area built into it for users who prefer yoga or other exercises. According to the National Fitness Cam paign, the courts are designed to be used by adults of all abilities, ages, and ability levels. Users can download the Fitness Court app on Google Play and the App Store to access workout plans and more. The fitness court is scheduled to be installed in June 2024. The pickleball courts, along with reconstruction of the park’s trail system, are the final park features that will be completed, with work estimated to begin in early summer.

Photo courtesy of the National Fitness Campaign.

Spring 2024 9

PUBLIC WORKS

CONSTRUCTION CORNER Stay up-to-date on City of Shakopee construction projects

Seasonal Yard Waste Service from DSI, the city’s garbage hauler: ■ Includes a 65-gallon cart (must weigh less than 100 pounds), plus five brown compostable bags or bundles per week (bags not supplied by DSI). ■ Seasonal service runs from mid-April to mid-November, weather permitting. On-Call Yard Waste Service from DSI: ■ Priced at $3.86 per compostable bag, with a limit of up to five bags per week. ■ On-call yard waste service is available from mid-April to mid November, weather permitting. ■ To request this service, contact DSI at least 48 hours in advance of your service day at 952-469-2239 or email shakopee@ dickssanitation.com . SMSC Organics Recycling Facility: ■ Scott County residents can dispose of yard waste and organic food waste at the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC) Organics Recycling Facility for free from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Sunday in May. Bring your ID! As the spring season approaches, it might be handy to know your options for yard waste disposal. Here are three services to help keep your green spaces tidy: The City’s annual street maintenance program includes the rehabili tation of various streets throughout the city. The program is designed to preserve and protect the pavement, with a goal of extending the life expectancy before a street requires complete reconstruction. The improvements that will be completed with the 2024 project include: ■ Removing the top two inches of pavement ■ Replacing deficient or damaged curb and sidewalk ■ Upgrading the sidewalk curb ramp facilities to improve accessibility ■ Paving a new top layer of asphalt Roads that will undergo these improvements include: ■ Overlay Area A —portions of Apgar Street, Scott Street and Atwood Street, Hennes Avenue, Fuller Street and Sommerville Street ■ Overlay Area B —portions of Cavanaugh Drive, Sarazin Street, Fourth Avenue, Alysheba Road, Jeffer Allen Drive, Industrial Boulevard, Industrial Circle, Citation Drive and Valley Park Drive ■ Overlay Area C —portions of 18th Avenue, Wyndam Court, Wyndam Drive, Philipp Drive, Philipp Avenue and Philipp Way ■ Overlay Area D —Fuller Street from Highway 169 to the south city limits

The 2024 Pavement Management Project will also include rehabili tation of the existing asphalt, which consists of crack sealing, minor concrete curb and sidewalk replacement, spot pavement patching, utility repairs and application of a chip seal coat of the road surface. The roads included in the pavement rehabilitation project area are: ■ Rehab Area A —Foothill Trail between Crossings Boulevard and County Road 16, Spring Lake Drive, Portage Lane, Moraine Circle and Moraine Drive ■ R ehab Area B —Bluff Avenue, and portions of roadways north of County Road 101 including Main Street, Minnesota Street, Dakota Street, Prairie Street, and Naumkeag Street The project areas will be completed throughout the construction season between May and September. Exact dates for improvement areas will be determined once a contractor is selected in the spring. Residents living within these road construction areas will receive a project newsletter in the mail prior to the project beginning. The newsletter will provide dates of construction, along with informa tion on what to expect throughout the duration of the project. For information about city road projects any time, including maps and other details, visit www.ShakopeeMN.gov/roadprojects .

Properly dispose of yard waste

■ Acceptable waste includes leaves, grass clippings, brush, branches, logs (less than 10 feet in length), stumps, and other compostable material. ■ Facility Address: 1905 Mystic Lake Drive S., Shakopee. For more information, visit www.smscorf.com .

10 Shakopee Snapshot

PUBLIC WORKS

Protecting our city’s trees Learn how the city is handling Emerald Ash Borer

Emerald ash borer is an insect that kills ash trees. It can be spread through transported firewood. The adults are small, iridescent green beetles that live outside of trees during the summer months. The larvae are grub or worm-like and live underneath the bark of ash trees, slowly killing the tree by tunneling below the bark. Residents can help slow the spread of emerald ash borer by not trans porting firewood and by disposing of trees locally at a licensed facility. To avoid transporting emerging beetles to non-infesting areas, it is best practice to avoid pruning and removing ash trees in emerald ash borer infested areas during the flight season (May–September). There are chemical options that can protect ash trees against emer ald ash borer. Community members should consult with an arborist to determine if treatment is a viable option. What is the city doing about emerald ash borer? The city is treating approximately 550 ash trees along streets and in parks. The remaining ash trees that are not being treated are being removed and replaced over the course of several years. Approximately 900 infected ash trees have already been removed and approximately 500 more ash trees are scheduled for future removal. Residents will receive notification of the removal of a nearby public tree at least 48 hours before the removal takes place. The city removes ash trees during the winter months and then grinds the stumps and plants new trees in the spring.

Annual tree sale pre-orders open Pre-orders for the city’s annual Arbor Day Tree Sale will open Monday, March 15, to all Shakopee residents. Sales will close Friday, April 19. Trees can be picked up between 1–3 p.m. Saturday, April 27 at the Public Works Building, 400 Gorman St. To learn more about the tree sale guidelines or to order a tree, visit www.ShakopeeMN.gov/treesale .

A healthy ash tree, pictured here, will have a full canopy of leaves, symmetrical growth, smooth bark that’s free of unusual markings and strong branch attachments.

A green alternative to burning leaves Burning yard waste is not legal in Minnesota

As spring arrives many residents make time to clean up accumulated leaves, sticks, and other vegetation often described as yard waste. Once the collection is done, how do you get rid of all the stuff? Although burning is often a suggestion, it is not legal to dispose of the material this way. Both the City of Shakopee and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources regulate open burning and the materials that can be burned. The following materials cannot be burned: Waste material includ ing, but not limited to, garbage, wastepaper, leaves, grass, yard and garden waste, debris from construction or demolition, hazardous

materials, oils, rubber, plastic, chemically treated materials, or other materials that produce excessive or noxious smoke. The most environmentally-friendly and sustainable option for yard waste disposal is composting. There are a variety of composting options, from home-based to commercial. Home-based composting offers an easy way to turn yard waste into usable material that can improve your soil, reduce chemical fertiliz ing, and reduce water waste. To learn more about compositing, visit the U.S. Environmental Protec tion Agency’s website at www.epa.gov/recycle .

Spring 2024 11

PUBLIC WORKS

Roundabout coming to Eagle Creek and Vierling Road closures likely to begin in June

Recycle and refresh Annual Clean Up Day set for April Local access will be permitted for adjacent properties located within the project limits. Utility relocation and grading outside of the exist ing roadway is expected to begin in April, with road construction and The city’s annual Spring Clean Up Day event is scheduled for 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, April 27 at Public Works, 400 Gorman St. The drop-off recycling event allows residents to recycle old appliances, electronics, yard waste, tires, car batteries, scrap metal and more. Residents will be charged a flat fee based on the type of vehicle haul ing. Additional fees may apply as noted on the city website. The City of Shakopee plans to construct a multi-lane roundabout at the intersection of Eagle Creek Boulevard and Vierling Drive in 2024. The roundabout is proposed to address traffic safety and operational needs from nearby developments that were identified in the Canter bury Commons Areawide Transportation Study. The project will include: ■ Construction of a hybrid roundabout, featuring differing lane configurations on each leg based on traffic needs ■ Utility and stormwater management improvements ■ Landscaping and roadway lighting ■ Pedestrian trail and sidewalk improvements ■ Flashing emergency vehicle warning signs notifying drivers of incoming fire trucks ■ Overhead utility relocation to underground Construction of the improvements will require a complete closure of the intersection. During the closure, traffic will be detoured along Mystic Lake Drive, 17th Avenue and Marschall Road.

The project is estimated to be completed and the intersection open again by the end of summer 2024. For more information about the project, along with timelines, visit www.ShakopeeMN.gov/vierlingroundabout .

This is a first-come, first-served event. The line to enter may be cut off prior to 11:30 to ensure vehicles already in line are processed. Clean Up Day is for residents of Shakopee, Jackson Township, and Lou isville Township (IDs required) and is funded in part through grants received from Scott County and Shakopee’s Recycling Rebate Program. Visit www.ShakopeeMN.gov/cleanupday for a list of accepted items.

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Furniture donations are no longer accepted. All furniture will be recycled.

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Help us unload more quickly by packing your vehicle in order of stops: ■ Items placed closest to the back of the vehicle will be unloaded rst (stop 1) ■ Items placed closest to the front of the vehicle will be unloaded last (stop 8)

STOP 1 ELECTRONICS RECYCLING

STOP 2 FURNITURE RECYCLING Light bulbs ( rst 10 free; $2 per bulb over 10), couches, chairs, miscellaneous furniture.

STOP 3 GARBAGE TRUCKS

STOP 4 METAL RECYCLING Propane tanks, general scrap metal,

Car batteries, tires, stereo, TV, VCR/DVD, desktop copier/printer/scanner, cellphones, answering machines, laptops, vacuums, small household electronics, console or projection TV, computers clean personal info o hard drives before recycling), lead-acid automotive batteries, (maximum 8). STOP 5 YARD WASTE RECYCLING Grass, leaves, garden material, brush, etc., in compostable bags only. Brush bundles cut in 6-foot lengths bound with biodegradable twine.

Household garbage: Plastic, mirrors/glass, broken/old household items, trash, etc. Please put your loose garbage in a box or tote bin for easy unloading.

BBQ grills (remove briquettes), lawn mowers (drain fuel/oil), patio furniture, motors, pots and pans, copper piping/tubing, brass faucets, stainless sinks, tness equipment, bed frames, etc.

STOP 6 CONSTRUCTION RECYCLING Concrete/asphalt, landscape blocks, untreated lumber. Residential only.

STOP 7 MATTRESS RECYCLING Mattresses/box spring ($30 each).

STOP 8 APPLIANCE RECYCLING Appliances ($15 each): Stove, refrigerator, freezer, water heater, humidi ers, window air conditioner, water so ener, dishwasher, microwave, washer, dryer, etc.

100% COMPOSTABLE

12 Shakopee Snapshot

PUBLIC SAFETY

Investing in mental wellness Grant award will fund PD mental health programs The Shakopee Police Department plans to expand its Check Up from the Neck Up mental well ness program for officers thanks to a federal grant award of nearly $82,000. This substantial federal grant award comes through the Department of Justice’s Office of Commu nity Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act Program. “We feel extremely fortunate and happy to receive this grant,” said Shakopee Police Chief Jeff Tate. “This funding will be used to improve access to mental health and wellness resources for our officers, from trainings and family resources to suicide prevention interventions and more.” The Shakopee Police Department’s Check Up from the Neck Up program already provides annual mental health check-ups for officers, but now the program will have the resources to provide opportunities for additional check-ups and mental health and wellness training tai lored to police officers. The program expansion will also include mental health education and support for the families of officers, from stress management to financial literacy and beyond. “With this grant funding, we will be able to take our wellness initiatives to the next level,”Tate said.

CHIEF’S NOTES

Another year of record low crime in Shakopee! The 2023 numbers are in, and we saw another record

Shakopee Police Chief Jeff Tate

low in crime reported in Shakopee. The 2023 community survey results also show that the vast majority of our community members feel safe in their Shakopee neighborhoods, and the facts support that feeling. I realize this is little consolation if you were just the victim of a theft or fraud. The few crimes being committed still have a big impact on the victims they affect. While reported crimes went down, some arrest data went up—most notably, DWI arrests. We had an additional 113 DWI arrests in 2023. This is a significant spike, and one that should concern us. For the last several years the average blood alcohol level of a person arrested by the SPD was over twice the legal limit. That’s unacceptable, and we will continue to aggressively enforce DWI along with our prevention programs like our “Free Sober Ride Home” nights and our designated driver giveaways we started in 2023. In March 2023, we started a Coordinated Response Unit that placed an embedded social worker in our police department. This has been on our radar for years and thankfully, we were able to get it done. The results have been significant, and that social worker has already handled over 100 referrals from officers just since March. We handled more than 800 mental health specific calls in 2023. The average mental health call takes over two hours to handle properly and takes 2.35 officers for each call, on average. Having an embedded social worker has been essential in our service delivery and our ability to get folks the services they need. Crime tends to dominate the headlines and lead the evening news. It’s important to pause and look at our numbers from a holistic perspective. We are a safe community with great crime prevention initiatives . Please take the time to swing by one of our crime prevention community events in 2024!

Rep. Angie Craig, far left, visited Shakopee City Hall to present the federal grant award check personally to the Shakopee Police Department.

Hot tips for cool cookouts Fire safety measures every grill master should know Are you prepared for grilling season? That’s a likely yes. But what about your grill? there is a leak and the grill should not be used until repairs are made. ■ Check the burners to make sure they

Maintaining your grill is an important part of the grilling season. Grills that are not maintained or properly cleaned can often become a fire haz ard that can not only ruin your meal but could also cause personal injury or property damage. Here are some tips to ensure your grill-out doesn’t go up in flames: ■ Remove grease buildup inside your grill. Many grills have grease collection containers beneath them that require cleaning. ■ Remove excess ash and debris from the grill. ■ Inspect the propane tank and hoses for any signs of damage or decay. ■ Turn the propane tank on and use soapy water to spray all the fuel lines and connections. If bubbles appear,

are in good condition and burning properly. The flame should be more blue in color than yellow. ■ Keep your grill out from under trees where the branches are close enough to catch flames, and keep your grill away from your home. If the grill does catch fire, you do not want the fire to spread. ■ If you live in an apartment building or a townhome where three or more units are attached, you cannot have a grill on a deck or balcony above the first floor. When grills are used in these locations, they must be at least 15-feet away from the building as required by City Code.

Spring 2024 13

#photooftheweek Your photo could be featured on the City of Shakopee Instagram feed!

Active Older Adults

55+ RESOURCE OPEN HOUSE

Focus on a healthy lifestyle and active aging plan! WEDNESDAY, MAY. 1 | 1 3 P.M. Shakopee Community Center

YOUR PHOTO HERE?

FREE

One submission each week will be chosen as our #photooftheweek.

Information | Vendors | Resources No registration required.

For more info or to submit your photo, visit www.ShakopeeMN.gov/photooftheweek

HAPPY BIRTHDAY America PARADE! WEDNESDAY, JULY 3 LIONS PARK

Active Older Adults MUSIC & ICE CREAM SOCIAL WED., JUN. 12 1 3 p.m. Community Center

FREE EVENT

Staging begins at 10 a.m. | Parade begins at 10:30 a.m.

Bring your decorated bikes, trikes, wagons, and more for a short parade to celebrate America’s birthday! After the parade, enjoy popsicles (provided by the Shakopee Valley Lions) and some great musical entertainment! No registration required.

Registration required at www.ShakopeeMN.gov/registration

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