Shakopee Snapshot: Winter 2023-24

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

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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