Shakopee Snapshot: Winter 2023-24

SHAKOPEE SNAPSHOT A LENS ON SHAKOPEE LIVING

WINTER 2023-24

The magazine formerly known as

Nurturing connections New program bridges mental health gaps

Missing summer? Improvements coming to SandVenture

INSIDE: PARKS & RECREATION WINTER ACTIVITIES BROCHURE PROGRAM REGISTRATION OPENS NOVEMBER 28

SHOW OFF SHAKOPEE PHOTO CONTEST

2023

Congratulations to our 2023 winners!

Grand Prize Shelley Weeks

Streetscapes Kristine McNamara

Lakes and Streams Viri DeRuiz

Faces of Shakopee Jennifer Stamp

GRAND PRIZE: $100 | CATEGORY WINNERS 3 : $50

SHAKOPEE SNAPSHOT A LENS ON SHAKOPEE LIVING

WINTER 2023-24

CITY NEWSLETTER Nurturing Connections.. . . . . . . . . 3 CityCalendar................... 4 InLehman’sTerms.. . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Shakopee Snapshot.. . . . . . . . . . . . 5 News&Notes................... 5 2024 Budget & Tax Levy.. . . . . . . . 6 Parks & Recreation.. . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 AsktheCity..................... 7 Development News.. . . . . . . . . 8–9 PublicWorks............... 10-11 PublicSafety............... 12–13 Chief'sNotes................... 13

Cover Photo: Winter is a beautiful time to catch a serene sunset at Thole Lake

Coordinated Responder Jamison Ottum, left, is an embedded social worker with the Shakopee Police Department Nurturing connections New program bridges mental health gaps When it comes to policing, the Shakopee Police Department prides itself on its community- centered approach that historically has involved relationship and trust building, crime prevention education and events, and broad public outreach efforts This year, the department took its community policing to the next level with the addition of Coor dinated Responder Jamison Ottum, a Scott County social worker who is embedded with the Sha kopee Police Department “He’s doing exceptional work,” Police Chief Jeff Tate said “He’s working with people that not only struggle with mental health issues, but also substance abuse issues, and he’s getting them resources they’ve never had before” Ottum is one of a handful of county social workers embedded with a police department as part of the newly created Coordinated Response Program (CRP) Social workers are also embedded with the Savage Police Department, Scott County Sheriff’s Office, and the Scott County Jail The goal of the CRP is to connect community members with the resources they need to thrive, engage people who are historically resistant to treatment, and reduce 911 calls due to non-criminal matters

FIND US ONLINE AT: www.ShakopeeMN.gov

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Continued on page 6

Winter 2023–24 3

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

CITY CALENDAR

NOVEMBER 23 Thanksgiving: City offices and Community Center closed Garbage and recycling delayed by one day 24 Day After Thanksgiving: City offices closed, Community Center open 8 a m –8 pm DECEMBER 2 Holiday Fest: 2–6 pm in Downtown Shakopee, hosted by the Shakopee Chamber and Visitors Bureau 5 City Budget Hearing: 7 pm , City Hall 9 Santa’s Pool Party: 10 a m to noon, Community Center, registration required 24 Christmas Eve: City offices closed Community Center hours TBD, please check city website JANUARY 1 New Year’s Day: City offices and Community Center closed Garbage and recycling delayed by one day 1–31 Boards and commissions applications accepted 15 Martin Luther King Jr. Day: City offices closed Community Center remains open Garbage and recycling schedule as normal 19 Pop-Up Putt & Play: Multiple sessions, Community Center, registration required FEBRUARY 19 President’s Day: City offices closed Community Center hours TBD, please check city website 25 Christmas Day: City offices and Community Center closed Garbage and recycling delayed by one day 31 New Year’s Eve: City offices

Hello Shakopee!

The warm summer days have given way to fall, and pretty soon the cold winter and snow season (brrrr!) is upon us It’s a good time for that furnace check-up, winterize the hose or irrigation systems, get your vehicles ready, and prepare the shovels Winter street parking rules went into effect on Nov 1 Read them over at www.ShakopeeMN.gov/parking The goal is to clear the streets with minimal passes, saving you tax dollars By moving your vehicle from the street during snow emergencies, you are helping us clear the streets more efficiently Additionally, I always ask those who are able and willing to clear snow and ice from storm drains and fire hydrants in your neighborhoods It does help! If you do clear these items, contact a council member or myself and feel free to send us photos and your contact information We will send you a Shakopee lapel pin as a token of our appreciation Find our contact information at www.ShakopeeMN.gov/ mayorandcouncil Winter is very hard for some; consider helping the elderly, people with disabilities, or neighbors in need It’s the Shakopee Nice thing to do The winter holiday season also brings families and friends together for cheer Enjoy the season! Shakopee offers many winter events and activities for your enjoyment Check out the Parks and Rec winter offerings on the other side of this magazine Shakopee Community Education also has plenty of options In closing, seasons greetings to you and your families, Merry Christmas, and a happy new year to all! Matt Lehman Mayor of Shakopee mlehman@ShakopeeMN.gov

Mayor Matt Lehman

closed Community Center remains open Garbage and recycling schedule as normal

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

CONTACT US MAYOR MattLehman......................... mlehman@ShakopeeMN.gov COUNCIL MEMBERS AngelicaContreras.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . acontreras@ShakopeeMN.gov JimDuLaney.......................... jdulaney@ShakopeeMN.gov JesseLara.................................. jlara@ShakopeeMN.gov JayWhiting..................................... jaywhtng@aol.com CITY ADMINISTRATOR WilliamReynolds..................... 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. Comments or suggestions can be directed to the editor, Amanda McKnight, at amcknight@ShakopeeMN.gov .

4 Shakopee Snapshot

Letter from the editor Welcome to the first issue of Shakopee Snapshot!

After years of faithfully serving the community as the Hometown Mes senger , we are excited to announce a new chapter of this publication, with a fresh name that encapsulates the soul of our vibrant city The new name was chosen in a community contest that invited resi dents to submit name ideas The City of Shakopee Communications Department staff chose four submissions as finalists, and the winner was chosen in a vote that was open to all city staff The idea for Shakopee Snapshot was submitted by resident Cynthia Mathenge “Snapshot, to me, was a fitting name because the Hometown Messenger always captures all the right activities going on in Shakopee that are inviting

to anyone who reads it,” Mathenge said “My hope is that the people of Shakopee can feel invited to take part in community events and create their own snapshot moments”

As we continue to provide you a lens on Sha kopee living, we remain committed to shar ing the information, events and news that you most need to know Join us in embracing this change and looking forward to more of Shakopee’s memorable snapshot moments! Amanda McKnight, Communications Manager/Editor of Shakopee Snapshot

How Can I Help You?

Free Photos with Santa Holiday Activity Stations Downtown Shopping

Walk Through Parade Tree Lighting Ceremony

Fireworks Show Vendor Market

Meet Courtney LaBruyere, who works as an Evidence Technician in the Police Department Q: What do you do for the city? A: It is my responsibility to document, maintain, and preserve the chain of custody of evidence that has been

First Avenue & Lewis Street

Saturday 2PM - 6PM Dec 2nd

collected and submitted I work closely with the Scott County Attorney’s Office in processing evidence requests, managing items that need additional forensic testing, and confirming the destruction or release of found property/evidence that is no longer required to be held in custody Q: What do you enjoy about working for the city? A: The versatility in my position allows me to never feel like I’m doing the same thing every day I find the independence to prioritize my own workload with the support of my supervisors is something that has really allowed me to be more productive and enjoy coming to work every day Q: What’s the best part of your job? A: The work involved with the position itself is VERY interesting I’ve always had a fascination with the investigative processes that are crucial to the criminal justice system Beyond my genuine interest in my job, the camaraderie of all the staff is really something that I think is admirable They’re supportive, empathetic, and encouraging to one another in such an amazing way

Presented By:

Free Family Fun

SHAKOPEE.ORG/EVENTS

SHAKOPEE.ORG/EVENTS

NEWS & NOTES

GET INVOLVED! The city has two active boards and commissions that advise and assist the City Council in setting policy: Planning Commission/Board of Adjustments & Appeals and the Police Civil Service Commission The City Council also appoints members to the Shakopee Public Utili ties Commission (SPUC), which oversees the operation of the publicly owned water and electric utilities Interested community members can apply online during the month of January at www.ShakopeeMN.gov/employment

NEW EMPLOYEES JOIN CITY STAFF Join us in welcoming these new employees to the City of Shakopee: ■ Skye Campbell , Ice Arena Specialist, 10/23/23 ■ Andrew Coons , Communications Specialist, 8/14/23 ■ Ethan Dahl , Police Officer, 9/11/23

■ Holly Olson , Police Records Tech, 10/2/23 ■ Scott Peterson , Building Inspector, 9/5/23 ■ Sonia Quizhpi , Police Officer, 9/11/23

Winter 2023–24 5

Continued from page 3

“The overall goal is to get people the ser vices they need,” Ottum explained Since he began his work with the depart ment in March, more than 160 people have been referred to him for support Ottum’s job is to bridge the gap between the peo ple he’s helping and the long-term support many of them need but are unable to access without his intervention Ideally, Ottum works with community mem bers for 30 to 90 days to help stabilize their situation before transitioning them to the county Health and Human Services Depart ment for further support The police receive several calls each week that turn out to be unrelated to crime For instance, the department received a report from someone concerned about a man wan dering down the middle of a busy street No crime was being committed, but the man was acting in an unsafe manner due to untreated mental illness

That’s where Ottum comes in When a person is in mental health crisis, just researching where they can seek help might be an overwhelming, impossible task Depending on what the person is fac ing, they may even be resistant to support Because of his background in psychology and social work, Ottum is able to assess the person’s possible needs, figure out if they already have a case worker at the county, and access resources and services swiftly In one instance, Ottum was able to help a man who was struggling with alcoholism after getting out of an abusive relationship “I ended up getting him into treatment, and he’s now been sober for more than 143 days,” Ottum said “While he was inpatient, I got his rent and utilities covered for two months to make sure he could go to treatment He is 100% a success story” If Ottum encounters a community member who is resistant to support, or treatment in

How to recycle your holiday lights and trees When the holidays are over, here’s how to dispose of your lights and trees properly: HOLIDAY LIGHT RECYCLING The City of Shakopee offers free holiday light recycling through Friday, Jan 12 Drop off your holiday lights during business hours in the bins located in the entryways of City Hall and the Community Center ■ City Hall: 485 Gorman St ; open weekdays 8 a m –4:30 pm ■ Community Center: 1255 Fuller St ; open 5 a m –9 pm Monday through Friday, 6 a m –8 pm Saturdays, 8 a m –8 pm Sundays The City’s garbage and recycling hauler, DSI, picks up Christmas trees by request during the first two full weeks of January Christmas tree disposal is considered an “add-on”service and will cost a one-time fee Call DSI at 952-469-2239 or email shakopee@ dickssanitation.com prior to your regular service day to schedule a pickup Trees will not be picked up if they are placed at the curb without contacting DSI “He’s able to help people get health insur ance, food stamps, find housing He helped someone who struggled with hoarding get county services to pay for the entire clean up,” Tate said “In the long run, this is saving resources and taxpayer funds We’re able to tackle problems more effectively” DISPOSAL OF REAL CHRISTMAS TREES the case of substance abuse, he doesn’t give up easily “Sometimes it might take longer to build the rapport to get someone to trust you to do these things for them,” he explained “There’s days where people say no and swear at me and push me away, and there’s days where I go home and I’m like, ‘I finally did make an impact in somebody’s life’” According to Tate, Ottum’s work is not only helpful in creating a safe and mentally-well community, but it frees up officers to focus on crime prevention, investigations, and other daily tasks

Shakopee’s 2024 budget and tax levy could lead to decrease in city property taxes

Ensuring a vibrant community involves more than beautiful parks and fun recreation pro grams; it involves responsible fiscal manage ment to keep our city running smoothly and evolving to meet future needs As the City of Shakopee plans for 2024, it remains in a strong financial position, with a diverse tax base across various sectors By prioritizing responsible financial planning, the city contin

Give your two cents on the proposed 2024 levy and budget during a public meeting.

7 p.m. Tue., Dec. 5 Council Chambers at City Hall, 485 Gorman St.

ues its commitment to a prosperous, safe, and thriving community for all its residents The Shakopee City Council will hold a public hearing on the 2024 budget and tax levy at 7 p m Tuesday, Dec 5, followed by a vote on whether to approve the proposal TAX LEVY PROPOSAL To fund the 2024 budget, a 6 62% increase in the city’s tax levy is proposed For a median-value home of about $338,400, which saw an average 23% decrease in property value, this trans lates to a decrease of $62 annually in city property taxes Without a change in property value, median-value homeowners can expect a $38 decrease annually in their city property taxes PROPERTY VALUE CHANGES AND TAX BURDEN In the past year, there has been a shift in property value changes Commercial and industrial property values have increased significantly, reducing the share of property taxes being paid from residential properties—in other words, homeowners—in 2024 New construction also contributes greatly to the city’s overall taxable market value, reducing the tax levy’s impact on existing property taxes FINANCIAL STRENGTH AND RESPONSIBILITY The city’s robust financial position, reflected in an AA+ long-term credit rating, stems from a growing local economy, manageable debt burden, and strong financial management prac tices that include an emphasis on long-term planning This ensures the city can continue to provide quality services at reasonable costs

6 Shakopee Snapshot

PARKS & RECREATION

The new building will be twice the square footage of the former concession stand, with Tommy’s Malt Shop open year-round inside

New play features, restaurant coming to SandVenture Project could open door to year-round fun on water and ice Exciting changes are on the horizon at SandVenture Aquatic Park, Shakopee’s beloved sand bottom pool jumping areas—one that is three feet off the water and one that is six feet off the water The large yellow waterslide and smaller plunge slides will remain a part of the pool

Construction began this fall and includes much-needed improvements, including the demolition of the existing changing facilities to make way for a new building, along with several new water features that will provide guests, and younger guests especially, with more opportunities for play Crews are constructing a fixed boardwalk that will span the width of the pool to separate the shallow end from the deeper water The board walk will act as a wall with a through-way to the deep end in the center “The boardwalk will be a nice way to make the pool safer for non swimmers and very young children,” said Planning and Development Director Michael Kerksi “Parents can sit on the boardwalk and dip their toes in the water while they watch their kids play” The shallow end of the pool will maintain its zero-depth entry with water depths reaching about two feet in the center of the pool near the boardwalk New water features like those seen at splash pads will be installed in the shallow end of the water to enhance the play experience, and a new jumping platform will be put in the deep end The platform will have two

If the project budget allows for it, Kerski hopes to include new play features in the sand near the shallow end, as well These would likely be water-centric play stations, but the details are yet to be deter mined at the time of this magazine’s publication Aside from the pool itself, SandVenture’s concession building will also be new and improved The former concession building has already been demolished to make way for a new year-round building that is twice the square footage of the old one Tommy’s Malt Shop, a restaurant from Chaska, has signed a letter of intent to open at SandVenture The restaurant would be open year-round The new building will also have spaces for changing clothes, lockers, bath rooms and a community room that can be used for parties and rentals With a year-round, heated facility in place, the ultimate goal is to open SandVenture in the winter for ice skating and other seasonal events

#AsktheCity

OUTDOOR ICE RINKS

Winter means it’s time to get back out on the ice! Shakopee has several outdoor rinks available to the public for use every winter The rinks are typically open by mid-December, but that is weather dependent Here’s what you need to know about using the outdoor rinks: Q: WHAT ELSE DO I NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE OUTDOOR RINKS? A: Did you know:

Q: WHERE ARE THE OUTDOOR RINK LOCATIONS? A: The outdoor rinks are located here: ■ Green Meadows Park: 3100 Thrush St ■ Westminster Park: 801 Valley View Drive E ■ Southbridge Community Park: 7101 Southbridge Parkway ■ Lions Park: 1103 Adams St Q: IS THERE A COST TO USE THE OUTDOOR RINKS? A: The outdoor rinks are completely free to anyone and everyone to use! Just remember to bring your own skates Q: ARE THE OUTDOOR RINKS EVER CLOSED? A: The rinks will be closed if the temperature is below -10 degrees, or if the windchill is below -15 degrees

■ All outdoor rinks have warming houses except for Lions Park; warming house availability is dependent on staffing levels ■ Skate rentals are not available at outdoor rinks, so bring your own skates ■ Rink lights are available between 4 and 10 pm ■ Rink conditions are weather dependent Please be patient after a snowfall, as our crews need to prioritize snow removal For more information, visit www.ShakopeeMN.gov/outdoorskating

Winter 2023–24 7

PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT

‘What’s going there?’ New playground coming to Windermere, Mr Pig Stuff reopening in Canterbury Commons 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:

MR. PIG STUFF A 9,600-square-foot building is being constructed on Winner’s Circle Drive in Canterbury Commons and will be the new home of Mr Pig Stuff once complete Mr Pig Stuff restaurant was formerly located along Highway 101 east of Marschall Road For several months since its relocation, the busi ness has been doing catering only The new building on Winner’s Cir cle Drive will be an eat-in restaurant with an outdoor patio area The building will also have space for two additional tenants

WINDERMERE NEIGHBORHOOD PARK Construction has started on Windermere Neighborhood Park with an estimated opening date of spring 2024 The park will include a playground, slides built into the hill, and a poured in-place accessible surface similar to the surfaces at Lions and Huber Parks The poured-in-place surface will coat the entire hillside for safety purposes An observation tower will also be constructed as part of the park Benches will be installed along the existing trail adjacent to the park to provide plenty of rest points for walkers, particularly to ensure the trails are accessible for residents of the nearby senior living facilities

From brews to business TAP 2023 shakes up Shakopee in style If you didn’t have an opportunity to attend TAP 2023 in downtown Shakopee this past Septem ber, you won’t want to miss next year’s occasion This beer tasting and innovation event is still new, with this being the second year, and it has already grown from beer tasting alone to include seltzers and non-alcoholic beverages, as well as a concert on Lewis Street, sponsored by the Shakopee Chamber of Commerce, to round out the day This year, innovative businesses that have turned the region into one of the metro’s economic powerhouses were also featured Businesses in attendance included: ■ Steelhead Outdoors, which designs and manufactures high-tech modular gun safes ■ REMastered Sleep, which has developed the world’s first water bottle that fights snoring through tongue exercise

8 Shakopee Snapshot

PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT

CANTERBURY AMPHITHEATER Construction has started on the Canterbury Amphithe ater just east of Canterbury Park near Unbridled Avenue The 19,000-seat outdoor amphitheater is being devel oped by Swervo Development Corporation, which also redeveloped the 1930s era Armory building in Minneap olis as a music and entertainment venue The developer estimates the amphitheater could host as many as 40 to 60 events per year, with about 10 to 12 of those operating at maximum seating capacity The amphitheater is expected to open sometime in mid-2025

To watch the Canterbury Amphi theater episode of The Dig, scan the QR code or visit youtube.com/@ CityofShakopeeMN

HIGHVIEW PARK DEVELOPMENT The Highview Park Development is underway south of County Road 78 and east and west of Zumbro Avenue The first phase of development, which is in progress, will include about 122 single-family homes and 50 units of twin homes The applicant plans to build out the devel opment further over the next several years, for an even tual total of 496 single-family homes and 92 units of twin homes

To watch the Highview Park Devel opment episode of The Dig, scan the QR code or visit youtube.com/@ CityofShakopeeMN

■ Otso Cycles, which makes versatile, performance-first bikes inspired by the spirit of the Northwoods ■ Written Hugs Designs, which creates thoughtful and sensitive cards for difficult situations More than 40 Minnesota-based brewers were in attendance showcas ing their flagship brews, along with unique brews made just for TAP To receive updates when TAP 2024 dates and ticket sales are announced, sign up at www.ShakopeeMN.gov/tapupdates

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR BIG WINNERS OF TAP 2023! Winners were chosen by a vote of attendees

First Place: Back Channel Brewing Spring Park, Minn. :

Second Place: Fat Pants Brewing Co. Eden Prairie, Minn. :

Third Place: Kinney Creek Brewery Rochester, Minn. :

Winter 2023–24 9

PUBLIC WORKS Winter parking rules in effect through March 31 Street parking between 2 and 6 a m is prohibited except in the Calendar Zone Winter parking regulations are in effect from Nov 1 to March 31

During these months, no parking is allowed on any city street between 2 and 6 a m except for within the Calendar Zone: the area north of 10th Avenue and west of Marschall Road (see gray area of map) In the Calendar Zone, odd/even parking rules apply On even-numbered days between 2 and 6 a m , parking is allowed on the even-numbered side of the street On odd-numbered days, parking is only allowed between 2 and 6 am on the odd-numbered side of the street After a snowfall of two or more inches, a snow emergency is declared and parking restrictions are effective 24 hours a day until the snow has been plowed curb to curb Additionally, no parking is permitted on snow routes, which are labeled with signs, during a snow emergency Vehicles parked in violation of these rules shall be tagged and subject to towing, at the own er’s expense

Learn more about the city’s winter parking regulations and download the Calendar Zone Map at www.ShakopeeMN.gov/parking.

What you need to know for winter in Shakopee Winter is inevitable, and if it hasn’t snowed already, it’s bound to hap pen soon Be prepared for the season by familiarizing yourself with common winter ordinances and best practices Mailboxes directly hit by the plow will be repaired or replaced The city will not be responsible for damage to mailboxes or support post caused by snow or ice coming into contact with the mailbox Report damage to publicworks@ShakopeeMN.gov.

Clear sidewalks adjacent to your home. Property owners are respon sible for clearing snow/ice on sidewalks adjacent to residential prop erties within 36 hours and commercial properties within 24 hours The city plows some sidewalks along collector streets, as well as all trails within city limits Do not push snow into the street or alley. Plowing, shoveling, blow ing or placing snow onto public roadways causes traffic hazards and is prohibited by Minnesota statute and City of Shakopee ordinance Shovel around mailboxes and fire hydrants. Shovel a 3-foot path from the road to the hydrant and a minimum of three feet on all sides of the hydrants Consider shoveling a path for meter readers or mail carriers in your yard or between yards Do not put your garbage carts in the street. Place garbage and recy cling containers at least two feet back from the curb to avoid contact with snowplows No street parking after two inches of snowfall. Move vehicles from the street when a snowstorm is occurring More information about winter parking restrictions can be found at www.ShakopeeMN.gov/parking

Remind children it is dangerous to play in snowbanks at the end of a road or driveway. Plow drivers add snow to snowbanks during plowing Children tunneling into snowbanks risk being trapped or gravely injured by a snowplow

To learn about the city’s snow removal policies, visit www.ShakopeeMN.gov/snowremoval.

10 Shakopee Snapshot

PUBLIC WORKS

Celebrating community connections Highway 169 Pedestrian Bridge open to the public

The new trail connection is especially exciting for biking enthusiasts who want to spend a day on the trails unfettered by Highway 169, with a stop at Xcel Energy Mountain Bike Park This project wouldn’t have been possible without the city’s commu nity partners, including Shakopee Public Schools, Shakopee Mde wakanton Sioux Community, Shakopee Chamber and Visitors Bureau, Scott County, the Minnesota Department of Transportation, Rep Brad Tabke, Sen Eric Pratt, and Rep Ben Bakeberg The city is espe cially grateful for a $2 million bonding grant from the state of Minne sota, which helped make this project possible

The Highway 169 Pedestrian Bridge opened to the public in October with a celebration among community members, biking enthusiasts, elected officials and city staff The pedestrian bridge eliminates a significant gap in the local and regional trail system, which was separated by Highway 169 The bridge connects the southern part of Shakopee, between the Southbridge and Dean Lakes neighborhoods, with the paved trail near Quarry Lake On the north side of the highway, the existing paved trail extends from Quarry Lake to the Minnesota Valley State Trail at Valleyfair

From left: Rep Brad Tabke, Scott County Commissioner Jody Brennan, City Councilor Jesse Lara, Mayor Matt Lehman, City Councilor Angelica Contreras, Sen Eric Pratt and good dog Misty, and City Councilor Jay Whiting prepare to cut the ribbon on the pedestrian bridge

Ribbon cutting attendees make their way across the bridge for the first time

Breaking the ice Embracing an eco-friendly approach to winter salt use

space between granules Consider purchasing a hand-held spreader to help you apply a consistent amount ■ Sweep up extra: If salt or sand is visible on dry pavement it is no longer doing any work and will be washed away Sweep up this salt or sand to use again later For more information about the city’s Storm Water Pollution Preven tion Plan, visit www.ShakopeeMN.gov/swppp

Keeping our driveways, sidewalks and streets clear of snow and ice is a top priority for safety While salt is effective at clearing snow and ice, it is also a permanent pollutant that impacts our water resources, including drinking water Just one teaspoon of salt permanently pollutes five gallons of water Reducing how much we use by even a little can be critical to helping protect our environment When salt is applied, it dissolves in the snow or ice it is intending to clear Once dissolved, it is carried as runoff to our lakes, streams, ponds and groundwater Once there, it has a variety of negative impacts on fish, aquatic bugs and other wildlife; ultimately, polluted water can affect our drinking water Follow these tips from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency to reduce salt use: ■ Shovel: The more snow and ice you remove manually, the less salt you will need to use and the more effective it will be ■ 15 °F is too cold for salt: Most salts stop working at this temperature; use sand instead for traction but remember that sand does not melt ice ■ Apply less: More salt does not mean more melting Use less than four pounds of salt per 1,000 square feet One pound is approximately a 12-ounce coffee mug Leave about a 3-inch

The more snow and ice you remove manually, the less salt you’ll need to use

Winter 2023–24 11

PUBLIC SAFETY

A day in the life of a Shakopee firefighter Did you know fire fighting is just one part of a firefighter’s duties? Shakopee firefighters spend many hours a week not only responding to emergency calls, but also training, performing fire inspections, attending public education events, and completing duties at the fire stations, such as building and vehicle maintenance Our firefighters currently work shifts that are either eight, 12, or 16 hours long There are always four firefighters and one command officer scheduled to work 24 hours, seven days a week, and 365 days a year Firefighters begin each shift by checking over their assigned fire truck to ensure it operates properly, making sure that all lights and sirens and rescue equipment are in working order, and confirming all medical equipment is fully stocked and ready to go Next, they review the day’s activities, events, inspections, station duties, and fire pre-plans that need to be completed More than 470 inspections and more than 300 fire pre-plans are com pleted each year Many of these inspections and pre-plans are for newly constructed commer cial buildings and residential living spaces like apartment buildings Firefighters also have station duties like cleaning fire trucks, fixing broken equipment, making sure other fire trucks are inspected and in working order, and cleaning up around the inside and outside of the fire stations Our firefighters are scheduled to do physical fitness training and fire operations training dur ing each and every shift These trainings generally take about two hours per shift, depend ing on the specific fire operation topics they are covering Given the various types of industry we have in our city, firefighters need to be ready and trained for anything from a rescue at an amusement park to saving someone stranded in the river Let’s not forget the most important reason firefighters are here: Emergency calls for service Shakopee firefighters respond to an average of five to six fire calls per shift, ranging from gen eral fire alarms to medical incidents, car accidents and special rescues A day in the life can be very busy for a Shakopee firefighter with all their assigned duties, train ing, and emergencies, but they look forward to work every day because they get to help their fellow neighbors and this great community

FIRE HYDRANTS: Keep them clear this winter Thank you for helping keep your neigh borhood safe during the winter months! Be a neighbor Help keep your block’s hydrant clear If there’s a fire hydrant near your house, be a good neighbor and help keep it clear this winter It is the resident’s responsibility to main tain nearby hydrants so they are acces sible to the Fire Department at all times Vegetation, snow and debris should be removed in the three-foot area surround ing the hydrant For those who are unable to clear a hydrant on their property, call Shakopee Public Utili ties for assistance at 952-233-1503

3 ft.

3 ft.

CLEAR AWAY ZONE Remove snow and ice Clear a wide enough perimeter around the hydrant for re ghters to work (about 3 ft.) Clear a path from hydrant to street

Shakopee firefighters often engage in live burn training exercises and demonstrations for the public

Shakopee Fire Department has a specially trained SCUBA dive rescue team

12 Shakopee Snapshot

PUBLIC SAFETY

A life-saving boost City receives grant for 20 AEDs to equip public spaces The City of Shakopee was fortunate this year to be the recipient of a grant award for 20 auto mated external defibrillators (AEDs) for use around the community The grant award, valuing more than $41,000, comes from the University of Minnesota Center for Resuscitation Medicine, with funding from the Helmsley Charitable Trust “We are incredibly grateful for this potentially life-saving grant award,” Police Chief Jeff Tate said “Having access to an AED during a cardiac event drastically improves the odds of survival” According to the American Heart Association, nine out of 10 cardiac arrest patients who receive a shock from an AED in the first minute survive And CPR plays a major role in survival odds, as well, with the chances of survival decreasing by 10% every minute a cardiac arrest patient goes without CPR The locations of the new AEDs are still being determined as city staff identifies places around the city that currently lack AED access With the police department being trained on the new AEDs this fall, they hope to have them rolled out in December WHAT DO I DO IF I NEED TO USE AN AED? According to Sgt Derek Nordtvedt, the first thing you should do if someone nearby is having a cardiac event is to call 911 “The sooner first responders can get notified, the sooner they can help,” Nordtvedt said Next, someone should start CPR while someone else readies the AED Inside the AED box are pads and a diagram showing where to place them on the patient’s bare skin “Once the AED is by the patient, turn it on and follow the instructions,” Nordtvedt said “They are very easy to use The AED will talk you through the process” The first thing the AED will do is analyze whether the person needs an electric shock If no shock is advised, it will tell you to resume CPR “Having an AED close by can provide that cardiac patient with live-saving measures,” Nordtvedt said “The sooner any life-saving measures can get started, the better it can be for the patient”

CHIEF’S NOTES

We don’t talk about or thank our Shakopee Crime Prevention group enough

Shakopee Police Chief Jeff Tate

Shakopee Crime Prevention Inc is a nonprofit organization made up of Shakopee residents and businesses whose mission is to raise money and awareness for crime prevention initiatives in the city This group holds several fundraisers throughout the year The funds support police department initiatives like Shop with a Cop, Night to Unite, and our Recovery Assistance Program Many of the events you see officers attending happen because we have this wonderful group supporting and funding the initiative Every time we propose a new idea, like etching catalytic converters, the Crime Prevention Board community and reducing crime I would encourage any of you who may want to get involved to consider joining the cause or making a donation by reaching out to our Crime Prevention Specialist Stef Janke at sjanke@ShakopeeMN.gov We are fortunate to have a safe community, and the Shakopee Crime Prevention inc plays a significant role in our crime levels staying at record lows I want to thank everyone who has served on this board You are making our jobs in law enforcement easier and our community safer We truly appreciate everything you do from wrapping presents at Shop with a Cop to selling tickets at a meat raffle We appreciate everything you do funds and supports the program Everyone who is on the board is a volunteer They care about the

Nine out of 10 cardiac arrest patients who are shocked by an AED within one minute survive

Winter 2023–24 13

SATURDAY, DEC. 9 | 10 a.m.–Noon COMMUNITY CENTER AQUATIC CENTER Sant ’

Le ers to Santa Once again, the North Pole is sending us a special mailbox that will be available at the Community Center for you to send your letters to Santa!

Be sure to include a short list of presents you’d like and a nice note to Santa for all the hard work he, his reindeer and the elves do each year! Please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope for Santa to send you a special message!

Santa’s mailbox will be at the Community Center December 2–10 .

Lots of fun activities and a photo op with Santa! Plus, it’s your last chance to submit your letter to Santa, so don’t miss out! Kids 6 years and under require a parent to be in the water with them at all times. $10 per child, adults are free.

Your child should receive a letter from

Dear Santa, I have been really good this year.

Santa the week of December 18.

FROM: Mason

456 Fullest St. Shakopee, MN 55379

TO: Mason

TO: Santa Claus 123 Elf Road North Pole 88888

456 Fullest St. Shakopee, MN 55379

Registration required: www.ShakopeeMN.gov/registration

Shakopee

Shakopee Community Center BIRTHDAY PARTY PACKAGES Party packages include: 14 place settings (up to 12 kids and 2 adults; add up to 4 additional Parties o ered*: Splash Party Lookout Playground Party Nerf Battle Xtreme Party (hosted)

Egg Hunt & Candy Grab

SATURDAY, MARCH 23 TAHPAH PARK 1–2:30 p.m

kids for an additional price) 2 hour rental of a party room Outside food/drink/cake is allowed

OUTDOOR EVENT: Held rain, snow, or shine. Dress for the weather!

Gymcrazium Party (hosted) * All party packages are geared for kids ages 5–10

Egg/Candy Hunt Games, Crafts and more! Bring a bag or basket for your goodies! FREE EVENT!

Questions? Contact Amber Cunningham at acunningham@ShakopeeMN.gov For more information or to submit a party request, visit www.ShakopeeMN.gov/CommunityCenter and click on Birthday Parties .

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