2011-02 Winter Heights HighlightsTrail Planning Process Begins
City of Mendota Heights
1101 Victoria Curve
Mendota Heights, MN 55118
www.mendota-heights.com
Copyright 2011, City of Mendota Heights
HEIGHTS
HIGHLIGHTS
WINTER 2011 : Issue 87
City Directory
Council Members:
Sandra Krebsbach, Mayor 454-5696
Jack Vitelli455-5625
Ultan Duggan452-5179
Liz Petschel454-3256
Mike Povolny454-0926
Staff Members:
City Hall 651-452-1850
David McKnight, City Administrator
Sandie Thone, City Clerk
Mike Aschenbrener, Police Chief
John Maczko, Fire Chief
John Mazzitello, Public Works Director
Jake Sedlacek, Assistant to Administrator
Paul Berg, Code Enforcement Officer
Kristen Schabacker, Finance Director
Teresa Gangelhoff, Recreation Programmer
Public Works Facility651-454-4059
Tom Olund, Public Works Superintendent
Did you know that the City of Mendota Heights features just over
twenty-two miles of paved off-road trails? These trails function both as a recre-
ational amenity, as well as a transportation alternative to driving. The Parks and
Recreation Commission has set in motion an effort to collect feedback from the
public regarding maintenance and improvements to the trail system.
City staff has reviewed the current trail system to identify areas in need of main-
tenance, and areas where trails are needed to complete the system. The Parks and
Recreation Commission is asking for input from trail users to create a
similar list.
The result of this process
will be a comprehensive,
long-term plan for main-
tenance and improve-
ments to the trail system.
This plan will be used for
budgeting and grant-
writing purposes. You
can find a current trail
map on our city web page
by clicking on trail maps
from the home page.
It may be cold right now, but history tells us that as soon as the snow
clears, our trails will be teaming with walkers, runners, skaters and bicyclists.
We encourage you to give us your feedback on trails at lovetheparks@
mendota-heights.com, or by calling city hall at (651) 452-1850. The Parks and
Recreation Commission will also host an open house at their regular meeting,
Tuesday, June 14, 2011.
SAVE THE DATE
Mendota Heights Parks Celebration
The annual parks celebration has something for everyone! Bring your
friends and family to Mendakota Park on Saturday, June 4, 2011 and join
the fun. The celebration will feature live music, a petting zoo, fire truck
rides and more!
The Mendota Heights Fire Department will be rafflingoff a Trek road
bike, helmet and pump (valued at over $1,000) to benefit the Mendota
Heights Fire Relief Association. Tickets are $10 each and can be purchased
at City Hall or by contacting a fire fighter near you. Only 200 tickets will be sold, they will go fast. Drawing will be held at the Park Celebration,June 4, 2001.
City of Mendota Heights
1101 Victoria Curve
Mendota Heights, MN 55118
www.mendota-heights.com
Lace up your running shoes and come join us for the sixth annual
Mendota Heights 5K Run/Walk sponsored by Gateway Bank. This year’s 5K
Run/Walk will take place on Saturday, June 4, 2011 at the Village at
Mendota Heights. The 5K will begin promptly at 9:00 a.m. so register early
to avoid the crowds. Registration is $20 before 6:00 p.m. on June 3, 2011
and $25 day of the race. Registration forms may be found on our website
at www.mendota-heights.com or at City Hall.
Registration for the race includes t-shirt, race day refreshments and terrific
door prizes! Awards will be presented to the top three males and the top
three females in the following categories: age 19 and under, ages 20 to 49
and ages 50 and over.
Proceeds from the race are donated to Special Olympics helping kids
achieve their goals and dreams. If you would like to make an additional
donation to the Special Olympics please include a separate check written
to the Special Olympics. Thank you for your continued support of this
important program! Race Number and 5K T-Shirt Pick-up will be Friday,
June 3, 2011 at City Hall, 1101 Victoria Curve, Mendota Heights, MN 55118
from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. or Saturday morning before the race at the
Village at Mendota Heights from 7:00 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.
6th Annual MH 5K Run/Walk
WINTER 2011 : Issue 87
INSIDE...
Mayor’s Message ... 2
City Council Includes
Familiar Faces... 3
Your City Tax Dollars ... 3
Construction Update ... 4
Home Improvement... 5
Information
Summer Recreation ... 6
Programs
6th Annual 5K ... 8
A small town
feel in an
urban setting
HEIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS : 7
SAFETY CAMP
The 20th annual Safety Camp will be held
August 9 through August 11, 2011 from 8:00 a.m.
to 3:30 p.m. at Kaposia Park in West Saint Paul.
Your third and fourth graders will learn lessons
they will likely remember for years to come!
Safety Camp Instructors include local police
officers and firefighters teaching children about
weather safety, drug awareness, animal safety,
first aid, home safety, fire prevention, stranger
safety and much more. Program cost: $30 which
includes lunch and snacks for the day.
Please register early at www.mendota-
heights.com or at City Hall.
www.mendota-heights.com
FORE!
Green grass and hot summer days are right around
the corner! The area’s best priced golf course is
not only conveniently located but offers programs
everyone will enjoy.
Mendota Heights Par 3 is slated to open for the
season in April, depending on weather and turf
conditions. The 2011 season brings back your
favorite programs including Junior Golf Camps,
Junior Golf League, Women’s Golf League and
Group Golf Lessons.
Weekday greens fees are $9 for juniors and seniors
and $10 for adults. Greens fees on the weekends
are $10 for juniors and seniors and $11 for adults.
Don’t forget to keep the par three in mind for
leagues, events and parties. Call to inquire about
group golf and lunch specials.
Call our friendly staff at (651) 454-9822 for hours,
tee time availability or just stop by and play a
round.
Save the Date:There will be a registration
night at City Hall on Wednesday, March 23, 2011
at 6:30 p.m. foryouth golf leagues. Come early to
reserve your tee times or register online. Web
registrations will open up on Thursday, March 24
at 3:00 p.m.
SUMMER TENNIS PROGRAM
Join your friends or meet new friends at our summer
tennis program beginning the middle of June and
running until the end of July 2011. Whether you are
a beginner or have been playing for severalyears
there is a program for you.
Mendota Heights tennis utilizes the USTA Quick
Start program. Lessons and leagues are held at the
Visitation School tennis courts. Lessons and leagues
are available for kids four to sixteen years of age. All
registrants will receive a t-shirt.
“Littles” Tennisis for ages four to seven and will
introduce your child to the game of tennis. Four
morning sessions of forty minute classes once per
week are offered and run June 16 to July 28, 2011.
Program cost: $45
Beginner Tennis Lessonsis for ages eight and up and
will introduce the older child to the game of tennis.
Two morning sessions consisting of fifty five minute
classes three days per week are offered and run June
13 to July 28, 2011. Program cost: $75
Intermediate Tennis Lessonsis for ages nine and
older with some tennis experience who wish to go
to the next level. Two morning sessions of fifty five
minute classes three days per week are offered and
run June 13 to July 28, 2011. Program cost: $75
Advanced Tennis Lessonsis for ages ten and up with
previous tennis experience and/or past participation
in the program and will focus on the child’s level of
play. Two late morning sessions consisting of fifty
five minute classes three days per week are offered
and run June 13 to July 28, 2011. Program cost: $75
In-House Tennis Leagueis for ages eleven and up
and offers youth in house league play. Youth will
be evaluated on the first day and qualify for the
program based on their skill level. One mid-day
league lasting one hour three days per week
is offered and will run June 13 to July 28, 2011.
Program cost: $75
Recreational Traveling Tennis Teamis for ages ten
to sixteen and offers experienced youth traveling
tennis play at a competitive level. One afternoon
league lasting two hours three days per week for
three weeks is being offered and will run from
June 14 to June 28, 2011. Program cost: $80
MAYOR’S MESSAGE
A New Year
I am proud to serve as your new Mendota Heights mayor. Our Council has two new
members, Liz Petschel, former Airport Relations Commission Chair and Mike Povolny,
former Planning Commission Chair. Mike was appointed to the vacancy created on the
council with my election to mayor. I served for eighteen years on the council, and was
pleased to have a unanimous choice in Mike from a pool of excellent applicants. Council
member Jack Vitelli, in his 3rd term will be acting mayor in my absence and council
member Ultan Dugganwas re-elected for a 3rd term. We will complete our advisory
commission teams with interviews on February 16, 2011 and appointments at the city council meeting March 1,
2011. We have seven open positions and sixteen applicants. Thank you to all that applied.
We take pride in the longevity of our employees and our volunteer firefighters. It was my privilege at my first
meeting as mayor to give awards to twenty-two employees for service of five to 30 years. Many families and friends
were there for this special recognition.
It has been a good year for Mendota Heights. Mendota Plaza development has exceeded our expectations for quality
and design.Walgreens is anticipated to open in March 2011. The Village at Mendota Heights continues to open new
businesses and in the business and industrial park we welcomed Bituminous Roadways and Northwestern Mutual
Finance Network.
Mendota Heights has had a healthy and robust growth. We are a safe and beautiful city and I have set a goal for the
first year as mayor to “secure the future” of our city. This means continuing budget alignment with resources.
Our tax base is 78% residential property taxes — the city and residentsare clearly partners in maintaining the quality
of the city. We will be looking at ordinances and permits that are similar to other cities regarding rental housing.
It will mean a property maintenance ordinance for commercial and industrial properties. City Administrator
McKnight and I will have a tracking system to routinely bring to our attention policy implementation and financial
issues important to the city.
The Council had a productive goal setting session on January 19, 2011 so we are “off and running”. Enjoy the rest of
the winter – the rinks are open; the streets plowed; and the high schools have lots of athletic and musical events for
you to attend.
2 : HEIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS
Mayor Sandra Krebsbach
WINTER WONDERLAND PHOTO CONTEST
Mendota Heights residents and employees of Mendota Heights businesses are encouraged to show us
“your Mendota Heights” by taking photos portraying “Winter Wonderland” in the city and enter them in the
photo contest for a chance to win prizes and be featured in Mendota Heights publications.
Photos will be accepted in the following three categories: Nature and Wildlife; People and Pets; and City Scenes
and Events. You may enter up to three 5 X 7 photos. Prizes will be awarded to the top three photos in each
category and first place photos will be published on the website, in the city newsletter and posted at City Hall.
$100 first place prizes, $50 second place prizes,$25 third place prizes will be awarded in the form of gift cards
from local businesses. The deadline for submitting photos is Thursday, March 31st at 4:30 p.m. Entry blanks and
contest rules are available at www.mendota-heights.com or at City Hall. Please call City Hall Administration with
questions — (651) 452-1850.
6 : HEIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS
RECREATION
GRAB YOUR FISHING
POLE AND COME TO THE
ROGER’S LAKE FISHING
PIER!
The Cliff Timm Memorial Fishing Derby will
be held on Sunday, September 11, 2011.
Youth ages fourteen and under will get the
chance to see who can catch the most fish
and the largest fish in this fun afternoon
at the lake. Prizes will be awarded and
entertainment will follow the main fishing
event. Goody bags are provided by Cliff
Timm’s trust, Ira Kipp and Gander
Mountain.
Fishing Derby cost: $8 for Mendota Heights
residentsand $13 for non-residents. Please
pre-register online at www.mendota-
heights.com or at City Hall.
SIMPLE STEPS
WALKING PROGRAM
Simple Steps FREE Walking Program kicks
off on May 1, 2011. Mendota Heights, part-
nering with Dakota County, offers Simple
Steps, a community walking program for
people who live or work in Dakota County.
The goal of this award winning program is
to increase the number of people who
walk regularly by encouraging participants
to find at least one other person to walk
with every week for six weeks. By joining
you will receive tips to get you started,
keep you motivated and you will have
a chance to win prizes for logging the
minutes you walk. To register go to
www.dakotacounty.us and search for
“Simple Steps.”
HEIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS : 3
Spring Clean Up
May 7, 2011
Get your work gloves on! Yes, it’s
time for the annual spring cleanup.
Saturday, May 7, 2011, at Mendakota
Park from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Volunteerswill be on hand to help you
properly dispose of a variety of materi-
als. This event has helped to keep
thousands of pounds of material from
being sent to the landfill. New this
year, we will be recycling all mattresses
and box springs brought in.
Spring Clean Up is only for residents of
Mendota Heights, please bring your
I.D. Cars, pickups and small trailers are
allowed. We will accept the following
items:
• Car tires, furniture and mattresses:
$5.00 each
• Scrap metals (please remove non-
metal components): volume based
fee
• Home remodeling debris and miscel-
laneous junk: volume based fee
• Home electronics: fee based upon
weight
• Bicycles: free
Spring clean-up is made possible
by a grant from Dakota County
Environmental Management and the
Minnesota Office of Environmental
Assistance.
We do not accept yard waste,
contractor debris or items which can
be recycled at your curb. Household
hazardous wastes are not accepted
at the event, but may be brought to
the Dakota County Recycling Zone,
just a few miles south on Dodd Road.
Last year’s election brought many changes to the Mendota Heights
City Council — all with familiar faces. Sandra Krebsbach left her
council seat after being elected mayor in November and being sworn
in to office in January. Airport Relations Commissioner Liz Petschel
was elected to the city council. The city council set out to fill the
vacancy left by Krebsbach, interviewing eight applicants in January,
all of whom the council felt were very well qualified and would serve
the community well. The Council narrowed the applicants to three,
including Mike Povolny, Jill Smith and Ansis Viksnins, ultimately
appointing Planning Commissioner Mike Povolny to the city council
seat. Povolny thanked the council for the appointment. “I will do a
good job for the city and I will do a good job for the residents,” he
said, “and that is what it is all about.”
The new council had their first meeting on January 19, 2011 for the
annual goal setting session. While no decisions are made, the session
gives council the opportunity to provide direction on items which
were identified as potential priorities for the coming year. In addition
it is a good chance for new council members to become more familiar
with a variety of issues and get acclimated to their new responsibilities.
City Council Includes
Familiar Faces
Making Every Dollar Go
Farther in 2011
For every city tax dollar you pay: On average, 37¢ goes to police
department services, 17¢ goes to administration, 14¢ goes to debt
service, 13¢ goes to public works, 12¢ goes to parks and 7¢ goes to
fire services.
The City of Mendota Heights practices responsible budgeting and
has prepared a leaner budget in these difficult economic times.
The city continues to focus on delivering core services efficiently.
Police Services:Police department and public safety services and
emergency preparedness.
Administration:Administrative; finance; planning; information
technology; human resource services, city council, elections, licensing
and recycling services.
Debt Service:Used to pay off bonds issued to borrow money for capital
projects such as city street projects and the Par 3 Golf Course purchase.
Public Works:Streets maintenance and code enforcement. Parks:Parks and trail maintenance and recreation services. Fire Services: Fire department services and fire prevention.
SUMMER YOUTH TRIPS
Watch for details about Summer Youth Trips on www.mendota-
heights.com.City field trips are held on Thursdays during the
summer months and are very popular so register early to
reserve your spot!
Recreation registrations will open March 24, 2011
2011 SUMMER PLAYGROUND
PROGRAMS FOR KIDS
The City of Mendota Heights offers six fun-filled weeks of
summer playground programs for four to ten year-olds.
Morning and afternoon sessions are available depending on
age and run from June 13 through July 30, 2011.
Morning sessions are for younger children ages four to seven
and cost $30 per session consisting of four weekday
mornings. Afternoon sessions allow older children ages
eight to ten time for fun at a cost of $45 per session
consisting of four weekday afternoons. Please visit our
website at www.mendota-heights.com or City Hall to sign
up your children for these summer playground programs.
Remember these programs fill fast so register early!
Summer Fun and Sun – Week of June 13, 2011:Geo-caching,
crafts, parachute, playground, relay games, lemonade stand
and plant flowers.
Happy Trails and Tails – Week of June 20, 2011:Trek the trails
with a compass and GPS, scavenger hunts, K9 dog demo and
police officers bike safety.
Sports, Sports and more Sports! – Week of June 27, 2011:
Here is your chance to try every sport under the sun
(and shade)! Maybe even a board game or two.
Back to Nature Week – Week of July 11, 2011:Minnesota
Aqua program introduced, learn about Minnesota fish and
go fishing at Roger’s Lake.
Water Works – Week of July 18, 2011:If you love to get
wet…this week is for you! Buckets of water fun, slip and
slide, balloons, relays and bubble factory.
Funtastic Favorites! – Week of July 26, 2011:We combine
the best, craziest and most fantastic activities of all and
have a ball for one last fabulous week.
CONSTRUCTION UPDATE
Road Construction Plans
It is going to be another busy year for road construction in
Mendota Heights. There are four substantial projects which
residents should be aware of:
Wagon Wheel Trail Reconstruction:Wagon Wheel Trail is
being rebuilt from Lexington Avenue to Dodd Road beginning
approximately late May and lasting through September. The
project will provide new asphalt surface, new road bed, curb
and gutter, and will include a new eight-foot bituminous trail
along the road. Swan Court, Rogers Court and Alice Lane will
also be rehabilitated with the project.
Knollwood Lane Neighborhood Rehabilitation:Knollwood
Lane, Knollwood Court, Medora Lane and Medora Court are
due to be rehabilitated with new asphalt surface. Additionally,
Cherry Hill Road, Ivy Lane, Farmdale Road (east of Wachtler),
Lower Colonial Drive and Upper Colonial Drive will receive
cracksealing and sealcoating treatment. Work should begin in
June and be completed by September.
Highway 55/Mendota Heights Road Intersection:The final
layer of asphalt surface will be placed early this summer with
lane striping and landscaping as well.
Delaware Avenue Reconstruction:Dakota County will be
reconstructing Delaware Avenue from the Highway 110
Frontage Road to Marie Avenue this summer. This project will
add new pavement, curb and gutter and a center turn lane for
entering Henry Sibley High School and West St. Paul
residential streets. This project is scheduled to begin in early
June and is intended to be substantially complete by the begin-
ning of the school year in early September.
For more information about Mendota Heights construction
projects or to view the 2011-2015 Street Improvement Plan
please visit the projects page on the city web page, or contact
the Engineering Department at (651) 452-1850.
Home Improvement Season is Here
Building permits are required for most improvements to your
home or business. This requirement helps to ensure the safety
of structures, as well as to protect property values across the
community.
Building permits are available at City Hall or on the city
web page – if you are paying a contractor to complete your
work, they are likely familiar with the permitting process.
Any contractor working in the City of Mendota Heights must
have a license to do so. As you complete your building permit,
you will want to have the following information ready:
• Value of the project
• Site plan for exterior work
• Project Drawings: must be professionally done
• List of subcontractors (if applicable)
Please call the Code Enforcement Division at City Hall
(651) 452-1850 if you have questions about building permits
or licensing. Some projects require more than just a building
permit. You will need to submit a planning application which
will require a public hearing in the following situations:
Variance –the project you have in mind includes placing a
structure inside the required setbacks for your property.
Conditional Use Permit –your project is allowed by code, but
needs to be reviewed and approved with specific conditions.
Common applications are accessory structures and privacy
fences on corner lots.
Wetlands Permit –any project located within 100 feet of a
wetland needs to be reviewed to ensure that it will not have an
impact upon the wetland.
Critical Area Permit –there is a Critical Area Corridor which
buffers the Mississippi River. Any exterior improvements in
this area are reviewed to consider impact upon the river
corridor aesthetics and resources.
If you need to complete one of the above planning applica-
tions, the forms may be downloaded from the city web page.
The application process may also be made easier by attending
a pre-application meeting with the City Planner. The City
Planner is available on the second and fourth Monday of each month. Please call City Hall at (651) 452-1850 to schedule an appointment.HEIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS : 5
BE SAFE
Identity Theft
The Mendota Heights Police Department
along with the Minnesota Crime Prevention
Association wants to assist you in not becoming
a victim of identity theft during tax return
time. Tax returns are full of personal informa-
tion which can be used to steal your identity
in the event they end up in the wrong hands.
By following these simple tips your tax season
can be a little less stressful!
Tax Season Do’s and Don’ts
• When using the United States Postal Service
to send in your returns, always use a secured
mail box/drop or the Post Office
• Shred any forms that have your personal
information on them such as:
- Social Security Numbers
- Routing numbers for bank accounts
- Home address with income information
• When filing electronically use all precau-
tions you normally use with any other
online business
• Turn off computers when not in use
• Check on firewalls and security measures for
your personal computer and make sure they
are up to date
• Utilize a software program which encrypts
or scrambles the information sent over the
internet 4 : HEIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS
HOME IMPROVEMENT
LOANS
The Dakota County Community
Development Agency (CDA) has a
Home Improvement Loan Program for
low and moderate-income homeown-
ers to make repairs and improvements
to their homes. Funds are commonly
used for roof replacement, furnace
replacement, electrical and plumbing
repairs, insulation and special needs
improvements (such as ramps, bath-
room and kitchen modifications).
Eligible applicants must own their
home, have sufficient equity in the
property, a satisfactory credit history
and a gross annual income within
program income limits. You can
find out more by calling the CDA
at (651) 675-4469 or visiting their web
page at www.dakotacda.org.
CONSTRUCTION UPDATE
Road Construction Plans
It is going to be another busy year for road construction in
Mendota Heights. There are four substantial projects which
residents should be aware of:
Wagon Wheel Trail Reconstruction:Wagon Wheel Trail is
being rebuilt from Lexington Avenue to Dodd Road beginning
approximately late May and lasting through September. The
project will provide new asphalt surface, new road bed, curb
and gutter, and will include a new eight-foot bituminous trail
along the road. Swan Court, Rogers Court and Alice Lane will
also be rehabilitated with the project.
Knollwood Lane Neighborhood Rehabilitation:Knollwood
Lane, Knollwood Court, Medora Lane and Medora Court are
due to be rehabilitated with new asphalt surface. Additionally,
Cherry Hill Road, Ivy Lane, Farmdale Road (east of Wachtler),
Lower Colonial Drive and Upper Colonial Drive will receive
cracksealing and sealcoating treatment. Work should begin in
June and be completed by September.
Highway 55/Mendota Heights Road Intersection:The final
layer of asphalt surface will be placed early this summer with
lane striping and landscaping as well.
Delaware Avenue Reconstruction:Dakota County will be
reconstructing Delaware Avenue from the Highway 110
Frontage Road to Marie Avenue this summer. This project will
add new pavement, curb and gutter and a center turn lane for
entering Henry Sibley High School and West St. Paul
residential streets. This project is scheduled to begin in early
June and is intended to be substantially complete by the begin-
ning of the school year in early September.
For more information about Mendota Heights construction
projects or to view the 2011-2015 Street Improvement Plan
please visit the projects page on the city web page, or contact
the Engineering Department at (651) 452-1850.
Home Improvement Season is Here
Building permits are required for most improvements to your
home or business. This requirement helps to ensure the safety
of structures, as well as to protect property values across the
community.
Building permits are available at City Hall or on the city
web page – if you are paying a contractor to complete your
work, they are likely familiar with the permitting process.
Any contractor working in the City of Mendota Heights must
have a license to do so. As you complete your building permit,
you will want to have the following information ready:
• Value of the project
• Site plan for exterior work
• Project Drawings: must be professionally done
• List of subcontractors (if applicable)
Please call the Code Enforcement Division at City Hall
(651) 452-1850 if you have questions about building permits
or licensing. Some projects require more than just a building
permit. You will need to submit a planning application which
will require a public hearing in the following situations:
Variance –the project you have in mind includes placing a
structure inside the required setbacks for your property.
Conditional Use Permit –your project is allowed by code, but
needs to be reviewed and approved with specific conditions.
Common applications are accessory structures and privacy
fences on corner lots.
Wetlands Permit –any project located within 100 feet of a
wetland needs to be reviewed to ensure that it will not have an
impact upon the wetland.
Critical Area Permit –there is a Critical Area Corridor which
buffers the Mississippi River. Any exterior improvements in
this area are reviewed to consider impact upon the river
corridor aesthetics and resources.
If you need to complete one of the above planning applica-
tions, the forms may be downloaded from the city web page.
The application process may also be made easier by attending
a pre-application meeting with the City Planner. The City
Planner is available on the second and fourth Monday of each month. Please call City Hall at (651) 452-1850 to schedule an appointment.HEIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS : 5
BE SAFE
Identity Theft
The Mendota Heights Police Department
along with the Minnesota Crime Prevention
Association wants to assist you in not becoming
a victim of identity theft during tax return
time. Tax returns are full of personal informa-
tion which can be used to steal your identity
in the event they end up in the wrong hands.
By following these simple tips your tax season
can be a little less stressful!
Tax Season Do’s and Don’ts
• When using the United States Postal Service
to send in your returns, always use a secured
mail box/drop or the Post Office
• Shred any forms that have your personal
information on them such as:
- Social Security Numbers
- Routing numbers for bank accounts
- Home address with income information
• When filing electronically use all precau-
tions you normally use with any other
online business
• Turn off computers when not in use
• Check on firewalls and security measures for
your personal computer and make sure they
are up to date
• Utilize a software program which encrypts
or scrambles the information sent over the
internet 4 : HEIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS
HOME IMPROVEMENT
LOANS
The Dakota County Community
Development Agency (CDA) has a
Home Improvement Loan Program for
low and moderate-income homeown-
ers to make repairs and improvements
to their homes. Funds are commonly
used for roof replacement, furnace
replacement, electrical and plumbing
repairs, insulation and special needs
improvements (such as ramps, bath-
room and kitchen modifications).
Eligible applicants must own their
home, have sufficient equity in the
property, a satisfactory credit history
and a gross annual income within
program income limits. You can
find out more by calling the CDA
at (651) 675-4469 or visiting their web
page at www.dakotacda.org.
6 : HEIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS
RECREATION
GRAB YOUR FISHING
POLE AND COME TO THE
ROGER’S LAKE FISHING
PIER!
The Cliff Timm Memorial Fishing Derby will
be held on Sunday, September 11, 2011.
Youth ages fourteen and under will get the
chance to see who can catch the most fish
and the largest fish in this fun afternoon
at the lake. Prizes will be awarded and
entertainment will follow the main fishing
event. Goody bags are provided by Cliff
Timm’s trust, Ira Kipp and Gander
Mountain.
Fishing Derby cost: $8 for Mendota Heights
residentsand $13 for non-residents. Please
pre-register online at www.mendota-
heights.com or at City Hall.
SIMPLE STEPS
WALKING PROGRAM
Simple Steps FREE Walking Program kicks
off on May 1, 2011. Mendota Heights, part-
nering with Dakota County, offers Simple
Steps, a community walking program for
people who live or work in Dakota County.
The goal of this award winning program is
to increase the number of people who
walk regularly by encouraging participants
to find at least one other person to walk
with every week for six weeks. By joining
you will receive tips to get you started,
keep you motivated and you will have
a chance to win prizes for logging the
minutes you walk. To register go to
www.dakotacounty.us and search for
“Simple Steps.”
HEIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS : 3
Spring Clean Up
May 7, 2011
Get your work gloves on! Yes, it’s
time for the annual spring cleanup.
Saturday, May 7, 2011, at Mendakota
Park from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Volunteerswill be on hand to help you
properly dispose of a variety of materi-
als. This event has helped to keep
thousands of pounds of material from
being sent to the landfill. New this
year, we will be recycling all mattresses
and box springs brought in.
Spring Clean Up is only for residents of
Mendota Heights, please bring your
I.D. Cars, pickups and small trailers are
allowed. We will accept the following
items:
• Car tires, furniture and mattresses:
$5.00 each
• Scrap metals (please remove non-
metal components): volume based
fee
• Home remodeling debris and miscel-
laneous junk: volume based fee
• Home electronics: fee based upon
weight
• Bicycles: free
Spring clean-up is made possible
by a grant from Dakota County
Environmental Management and the
Minnesota Office of Environmental
Assistance.
We do not accept yard waste,
contractor debris or items which can
be recycled at your curb. Household
hazardous wastes are not accepted
at the event, but may be brought to
the Dakota County Recycling Zone,
just a few miles south on Dodd Road.
Last year’s election brought many changes to the Mendota Heights
City Council — all with familiar faces. Sandra Krebsbach left her
council seat after being elected mayor in November and being sworn
in to office in January. Airport Relations Commissioner Liz Petschel
was elected to the city council. The city council set out to fill the
vacancy left by Krebsbach, interviewing eight applicants in January,
all of whom the council felt were very well qualified and would serve
the community well. The Council narrowed the applicants to three,
including Mike Povolny, Jill Smith and Ansis Viksnins, ultimately
appointing Planning Commissioner Mike Povolny to the city council
seat. Povolny thanked the council for the appointment. “I will do a
good job for the city and I will do a good job for the residents,” he
said, “and that is what it is all about.”
The new council had their first meeting on January 19, 2011 for the
annual goal setting session. While no decisions are made, the session
gives council the opportunity to provide direction on items which
were identified as potential priorities for the coming year. In addition
it is a good chance for new council members to become more familiar
with a variety of issues and get acclimated to their new responsibilities.
City Council Includes
Familiar Faces
Making Every Dollar Go
Farther in 2011
For every city tax dollar you pay: On average, 37¢ goes to police
department services, 17¢ goes to administration, 14¢ goes to debt
service, 13¢ goes to public works, 12¢ goes to parks and 7¢ goes to
fire services.
The City of Mendota Heights practices responsible budgeting and
has prepared a leaner budget in these difficult economic times.
The city continues to focus on delivering core services efficiently.
Police Services:Police department and public safety services and
emergency preparedness.
Administration:Administrative; finance; planning; information
technology; human resource services, city council, elections, licensing
and recycling services.
Debt Service:Used to pay off bonds issued to borrow money for capital
projects such as city street projects and the Par 3 Golf Course purchase.
Public Works:Streets maintenance and code enforcement. Parks:Parks and trail maintenance and recreation services. Fire Services: Fire department services and fire prevention.
SUMMER YOUTH TRIPS
Watch for details about Summer Youth Trips on www.mendota-
heights.com.City field trips are held on Thursdays during the
summer months and are very popular so register early to
reserve your spot!
Recreation registrations will open March 24, 2011
2011 SUMMER PLAYGROUND
PROGRAMS FOR KIDS
The City of Mendota Heights offers six fun-filled weeks of
summer playground programs for four to ten year-olds.
Morning and afternoon sessions are available depending on
age and run from June 13 through July 30, 2011.
Morning sessions are for younger children ages four to seven
and cost $30 per session consisting of four weekday
mornings. Afternoon sessions allow older children ages
eight to ten time for fun at a cost of $45 per session
consisting of four weekday afternoons. Please visit our
website at www.mendota-heights.com or City Hall to sign
up your children for these summer playground programs.
Remember these programs fill fast so register early!
Summer Fun and Sun – Week of June 13, 2011:Geo-caching,
crafts, parachute, playground, relay games, lemonade stand
and plant flowers.
Happy Trails and Tails – Week of June 20, 2011:Trek the trails
with a compass and GPS, scavenger hunts, K9 dog demo and
police officers bike safety.
Sports, Sports and more Sports! – Week of June 27, 2011:
Here is your chance to try every sport under the sun
(and shade)! Maybe even a board game or two.
Back to Nature Week – Week of July 11, 2011:Minnesota
Aqua program introduced, learn about Minnesota fish and
go fishing at Roger’s Lake.
Water Works – Week of July 18, 2011:If you love to get
wet…this week is for you! Buckets of water fun, slip and
slide, balloons, relays and bubble factory.
Funtastic Favorites! – Week of July 26, 2011:We combine
the best, craziest and most fantastic activities of all and
have a ball for one last fabulous week.
HEIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS : 7
SAFETY CAMP
The 20th annual Safety Camp will be held
August 9 through August 11, 2011 from 8:00 a.m.
to 3:30 p.m. at Kaposia Park in West Saint Paul.
Your third and fourth graders will learn lessons
they will likely remember for years to come!
Safety Camp Instructors include local police
officers and firefighters teaching children about
weather safety, drug awareness, animal safety,
first aid, home safety, fire prevention, stranger
safety and much more. Program cost: $30 which
includes lunch and snacks for the day.
Please register early at www.mendota-
heights.com or at City Hall.
www.mendota-heights.com
FORE!
Green grass and hot summer days are right around
the corner! The area’s best priced golf course is
not only conveniently located but offers programs
everyone will enjoy.
Mendota Heights Par 3 is slated to open for the
season in April, depending on weather and turf
conditions. The 2011 season brings back your
favorite programs including Junior Golf Camps,
Junior Golf League, Women’s Golf League and
Group Golf Lessons.
Weekday greens fees are $9 for juniors and seniors
and $10 for adults. Greens fees on the weekends
are $10 for juniors and seniors and $11 for adults.
Don’t forget to keep the par three in mind for
leagues, events and parties. Call to inquire about
group golf and lunch specials.
Call our friendly staff at (651) 454-9822 for hours,
tee time availability or just stop by and play a
round.
Save the Date:There will be a registration
night at City Hall on Wednesday, March 23, 2011
at 6:30 p.m. foryouth golf leagues. Come early to
reserve your tee times or register online. Web
registrations will open up on Thursday, March 24
at 3:00 p.m.
SUMMER TENNIS PROGRAM
Join your friends or meet new friends at our summer
tennis program beginning the middle of June and
running until the end of July 2011. Whether you are
a beginner or have been playing for severalyears
there is a program for you.
Mendota Heights tennis utilizes the USTA Quick
Start program. Lessons and leagues are held at the
Visitation School tennis courts. Lessons and leagues
are available for kids four to sixteen years of age. All
registrants will receive a t-shirt.
“Littles” Tennisis for ages four to seven and will
introduce your child to the game of tennis. Four
morning sessions of forty minute classes once per
week are offered and run June 16 to July 28, 2011.
Program cost: $45
Beginner Tennis Lessonsis for ages eight and up and
will introduce the older child to the game of tennis.
Two morning sessions consisting of fifty five minute
classes three days per week are offered and run June
13 to July 28, 2011. Program cost: $75
Intermediate Tennis Lessonsis for ages nine and
older with some tennis experience who wish to go
to the next level. Two morning sessions of fifty five
minute classes three days per week are offered and
run June 13 to July 28, 2011. Program cost: $75
Advanced Tennis Lessonsis for ages ten and up with
previous tennis experience and/or past participation
in the program and will focus on the child’s level of
play. Two late morning sessions consisting of fifty
five minute classes three days per week are offered
and run June 13 to July 28, 2011. Program cost: $75
In-House Tennis Leagueis for ages eleven and up
and offers youth in house league play. Youth will
be evaluated on the first day and qualify for the
program based on their skill level. One mid-day
league lasting one hour three days per week
is offered and will run June 13 to July 28, 2011.
Program cost: $75
Recreational Traveling Tennis Teamis for ages ten
to sixteen and offers experienced youth traveling
tennis play at a competitive level. One afternoon
league lasting two hours three days per week for
three weeks is being offered and will run from
June 14 to June 28, 2011. Program cost: $80
MAYOR’S MESSAGE
A New Year
I am proud to serve as your new Mendota Heights mayor. Our Council has two new
members, Liz Petschel, former Airport Relations Commission Chair and Mike Povolny,
former Planning Commission Chair. Mike was appointed to the vacancy created on the
council with my election to mayor. I served for eighteen years on the council, and was
pleased to have a unanimous choice in Mike from a pool of excellent applicants. Council
member Jack Vitelli, in his 3rd term will be acting mayor in my absence and council
member Ultan Dugganwas re-elected for a 3rd term. We will complete our advisory
commission teams with interviews on February 16, 2011 and appointments at the city council meeting March 1,
2011. We have seven open positions and sixteen applicants. Thank you to all that applied.
We take pride in the longevity of our employees and our volunteer firefighters. It was my privilege at my first
meeting as mayor to give awards to twenty-two employees for service of five to 30 years. Many families and friends
were there for this special recognition.
It has been a good year for Mendota Heights. Mendota Plaza development has exceeded our expectations for quality
and design.Walgreens is anticipated to open in March 2011. The Village at Mendota Heights continues to open new
businesses and in the business and industrial park we welcomed Bituminous Roadways and Northwestern Mutual
Finance Network.
Mendota Heights has had a healthy and robust growth. We are a safe and beautiful city and I have set a goal for the
first year as mayor to “secure the future” of our city. This means continuing budget alignment with resources.
Our tax base is 78% residential property taxes — the city and residentsare clearly partners in maintaining the quality
of the city. We will be looking at ordinances and permits that are similar to other cities regarding rental housing.
It will mean a property maintenance ordinance for commercial and industrial properties. City Administrator
McKnight and I will have a tracking system to routinely bring to our attention policy implementation and financial
issues important to the city.
The Council had a productive goal setting session on January 19, 2011 so we are “off and running”. Enjoy the rest of
the winter – the rinks are open; the streets plowed; and the high schools have lots of athletic and musical events for
you to attend.
2 : HEIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS
Mayor Sandra Krebsbach
WINTER WONDERLAND PHOTO CONTEST
Mendota Heights residents and employees of Mendota Heights businesses are encouraged to show us
“your Mendota Heights” by taking photos portraying “Winter Wonderland” in the city and enter them in the
photo contest for a chance to win prizes and be featured in Mendota Heights publications.
Photos will be accepted in the following three categories: Nature and Wildlife; People and Pets; and City Scenes
and Events. You may enter up to three 5 X 7 photos. Prizes will be awarded to the top three photos in each
category and first place photos will be published on the website, in the city newsletter and posted at City Hall.
$100 first place prizes, $50 second place prizes,$25 third place prizes will be awarded in the form of gift cards
from local businesses. The deadline for submitting photos is Thursday, March 31st at 4:30 p.m. Entry blanks and
contest rules are available at www.mendota-heights.com or at City Hall. Please call City Hall Administration with
questions — (651) 452-1850.
Trail Planning Process Begins
City of Mendota Heights
1101 Victoria Curve
Mendota Heights, MN 55118
www.mendota-heights.com
Copyright 2011, City of Mendota Heights
HEIGHTS
HIGHLIGHTS
WINTER 2011 : Issue 87
City Directory
Council Members:
Sandra Krebsbach, Mayor 454-5696
Jack Vitelli455-5625
Ultan Duggan452-5179
Liz Petschel454-3256
Mike Povolny454-0926
Staff Members:
City Hall 651-452-1850
David McKnight, City Administrator
Sandie Thone, City Clerk
Mike Aschenbrener, Police Chief
John Maczko, Fire Chief
John Mazzitello, Public Works Director
Jake Sedlacek, Assistant to Administrator
Paul Berg, Code Enforcement Officer
Kristen Schabacker, Finance Director
Teresa Gangelhoff, Recreation Programmer
Public Works Facility651-454-4059
Tom Olund, Public Works Superintendent
Did you know that the City of Mendota Heights features just over
twenty-two miles of paved off-road trails? These trails function both as a recre-
ational amenity, as well as a transportation alternative to driving. The Parks and
Recreation Commission has set in motion an effort to collect feedback from the
public regarding maintenance and improvements to the trail system.
City staff has reviewed the current trail system to identify areas in need of main-
tenance, and areas where trails are needed to complete the system. The Parks and
Recreation Commission is asking for input from trail users to create a
similar list.
The result of this process
will be a comprehensive,
long-term plan for main-
tenance and improve-
ments to the trail system.
This plan will be used for
budgeting and grant-
writing purposes. You
can find a current trail
map on our city web page
by clicking on trail maps
from the home page.
It may be cold right now, but history tells us that as soon as the snow
clears, our trails will be teaming with walkers, runners, skaters and bicyclists.
We encourage you to give us your feedback on trails at lovetheparks@
mendota-heights.com, or by calling city hall at (651) 452-1850. The Parks and
Recreation Commission will also host an open house at their regular meeting,
Tuesday, June 14, 2011.
SAVE THE DATE
Mendota Heights Parks Celebration
The annual parks celebration has something for everyone! Bring your
friends and family to Mendakota Park on Saturday, June 4, 2011 and join
the fun. The celebration will feature live music, a petting zoo, fire truck
rides and more!
The Mendota Heights Fire Department will be rafflingoff a Trek road
bike, helmet and pump (valued at over $1,000) to benefit the Mendota
Heights Fire Relief Association. Tickets are $10 each and can be purchased
at City Hall or by contacting a fire fighter near you. Only 200 tickets will be sold, they will go fast. Drawing will be held at the Park Celebration,June 4, 2001.
City of Mendota Heights
1101 Victoria Curve
Mendota Heights, MN 55118
www.mendota-heights.com
Lace up your running shoes and come join us for the sixth annual
Mendota Heights 5K Run/Walk sponsored by Gateway Bank. This year’s 5K
Run/Walk will take place on Saturday, June 4, 2011 at the Village at
Mendota Heights. The 5K will begin promptly at 9:00 a.m. so register early
to avoid the crowds. Registration is $20 before 6:00 p.m. on June 3, 2011
and $25 day of the race. Registration forms may be found on our website
at www.mendota-heights.com or at City Hall.
Registration for the race includes t-shirt, race day refreshments and terrific
door prizes! Awards will be presented to the top three males and the top
three females in the following categories: age 19 and under, ages 20 to 49
and ages 50 and over.
Proceeds from the race are donated to Special Olympics helping kids
achieve their goals and dreams. If you would like to make an additional
donation to the Special Olympics please include a separate check written
to the Special Olympics. Thank you for your continued support of this
important program! Race Number and 5K T-Shirt Pick-up will be Friday,
June 3, 2011 at City Hall, 1101 Victoria Curve, Mendota Heights, MN 55118
from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. or Saturday morning before the race at the
Village at Mendota Heights from 7:00 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.
6th Annual MH 5K Run/Walk
WINTER 2011 : Issue 87
INSIDE...
Mayor’s Message ... 2
City Council Includes
Familiar Faces... 3
Your City Tax Dollars ... 3
Construction Update ... 4
Home Improvement... 5
Information
Summer Recreation ... 6
Programs
6th Annual 5K ... 8
A small town
feel in an
urban setting