2021-02-05 Friday NewsFriday News 2/5/21
City of Mendota Heights sent this bulletin at 02/05/2021 02:43 PM CST
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FRIDAY NEWS | February 5, 2021
THE LATEST
In recognition of service
At its meeting on Feb. 2, the City Council recognized
retiring Parks and Recreation Commissioner Pat
Hinderscheid and retiring Planning Commissioner
Mary Magnuson.
Pat Hinderscheid began his membership on the
Parks and Recreation Commission on February 1,
2012, and he has served the maximum term limit of
of three 3-year terms.
Mary Magnuson has served on the Planning
Commission since March 1, 2011, when she was
initially appointed to fill the remainder of an unexpired
term. She was subsequently appointed to three
additional 3-year terms; the maximum term limit.
Both have served as chairs of their commissions;
their knowledge and experience will be greatly
missed.
Photos: Retiring Parks and Recreation Commissioner
Pat Hinderscheid (top) and Planning Commissioner
Mary Magnuson (bottom) have both served the
maximum term limits for their seats.
Welcome new commissioners
With the departure of the retiring commissioners, the City Council has appointed Sally
Lorberbaum to fill the full three-year term on the Planning Commission which had been that
of Mary Magnuson. Sally Lorberbaum has served on the Airport Relations Commission
(ARC) for the past 15 years, including 11 years as co-chair or vice chair. Commissioner
Lorberbaum also brings a depth of experience having previously served 12 years on the
Planning Commission, with six as chair. She looks forward to ensuring the City continues its
emphasis on high-quality, safe residential neighborhoods, open space and parks, and well-
planned commercial and industrial areas.
Cindy Johnson was appointed to the Planning Commission to fill the seat vacated by John
R. Mazzitello upon his appointment to the City Council. Her term expires January 31, 2023.
Commissioner Johnson brings her experience working on the 2040 Comprehensive Plan, is
a member of the Natural Resources Management Plan steering committee, and continues
to actively serve the community as a Master Gardener, collaborating with the City to support
its sustainable and pollinator-friendly practices.
Jaffrey Blanks was appointed to the Parks and Recreation Commission. Commissioner
Blanks brings experience in various community service organizations, Rotary, and
coaching, and together with his family is an avid Mendota Heights parks and trails
enthusiast.
Thank you to all who applied for the open positions and your willingness to serve the
community. The Council acknowledged the impressive turnout in applications and depth of
skill and expertise available within the City, and how grateful it was to to each and every
applicant.
Commission reappointments
Thank you the the following commissioners who continue to serve the community having
been reappointed to new three-year terms:
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Planning Commissioner Patrick Corbett
Parks and Recreation Commissioner Patrick Cotter
ARC Commissioners David Sloan, Arvind Sharma, and William Dunn
Vacancy available on Airport Relations Commission
With the appointment of Sally Lorberbaum to the Planning Commission, there is a vacant
seat on the Airport Relations Commission. If you have experience in, or are knowledgeable
about airport noise, check the City's website and Friday News next week for information on
applying for the appointment.
COVID-19 vaccine information
Find information from the state on vaccine data, distribution process, and phase schedule
here. You can also access information and answers to questions on the Minnesota
Department of Health's vaccination webpage.
Find a free COVID-19 community testing event
The Minnesota Department of Health is hosting both saliva and nasal swab testing events
throughout Minnesota. Tests are free and insurance is not required.
Visit mn.gov/covid19/get-tested/testing-locations/index.jsp for more information.
Learn more about the COVIDaware MN app
You can help protect your community and add your phone to the fight against COVID-19
today! It’s free. It’s anonymous. It helps slow the spread of the coronavirus in our
communities. Visit covidawaremn.com for more information.
Proposed ordinance would affect Critical Area
District properties
At the February 16, 2021 meeting, the City Council will be asked to consider adopting an
interim ordinance establishing a temporary moratorium on any new/proposed land use
applications or certain building permits for the properties situated in the Critical Area
Overlay District. Per State Statute, the City may adopt an interim ordinance applicable to all
or part of its jurisdiction for the purpose of protecting the planning process and the health,
safety and welfare of its citizens. If enacted, during this moratorium period, City staff would
be researching, preparing and presenting new official controls (zoning ordinance update),
which will become new regulations and standards for properties and land uses in the Critical
Area District. Any individual wishing to be heard on this matter may attend the Feb. 16
meeting in person; submit a request to be heard via special link to the meeting (posted
later); or submit written comments prior to the meeting to City Clerk Lorri Smith at
lorris@mendota-heights.com or Comm. Dev. Director Tim Benetti at timb@mendota-
heights.com.
Canoe rack permit applications open for Rogers
Lake
Due March 1 for first priority
The City of Mendota Heights offers rack rental at Rogers Lake to store canoes and kayaks
from April through November; the permit cost is $75. Those interested must complete and
submit a yearly Canoe Rack Permit Request Application. Mendota Heights residents have
an opportunity for first priority by submitting a Canoe Permit Request Application by the first
business day in March. After March 1, any unassigned racks will be made available to non-
Mendota Heights residents. Submitting a request for a permit application, or having a permit
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from the prior year, does not automatically guarantee that a permit will be issued; please
refer to the Canoe Rack Rental Policy for details. Before using the storage rack, all users
must have a valid permit for the current calendar year issued by the City of Mendota
Heights.
Canoe Rack Rental Policy
Canoe Rack Permit Request Application
Now hiring: Par 3 Golf Course seasonal positions
The City of Mendota Heights Par 3 Golf Course is seeking fun and energetic individuals for
seasonal positions. Applications are now being accepted for:
Golf Course Clubhouse Worker | Must be 16 years of age or older Conducts clubhouse operations including collecting greens fees, answering phone
and taking reservations, selling concessions and renting equipment. Responsible for
opening and closing the golf course clubhouse; performs daily light maintenance of
the clubhouse and grounds.
Golf Assistant | Must be 16 years of age or older Provides assistance to the Golf Instructor instructing youth at various levels and ages
in the fundamentals of golf. Performs a variety of duties including assisting with
instructing lessons and camps, preparing materials, and supervising participants.
Golf Instructor | Must be 18 years of age or older Instructs youth and adults at various levels in the fundamentals of golf. Performs a
variety of duties including developing lesson plans, preparing materials, instructing
lessons and camps, supervising participants, and providing work direction to Golf
Assistants.
Golf Course Maintenance Worker | Must be 18 years of age or older Responsible for the care and maintenance of the golf course turf and grounds as well
as general cleanliness and upkeep of the course. The Golf Course Maintenance
Worker responsibilities include raking traps, hand trimming, changing cups, push
mowing, fixing divots, weed whipping, pulling weeds and picking up trash.
Learn more and apply.
Applications being accepted for the Dakota County
Small Business Relief Grant Program
Apply for the latest round through 5 p.m. Feb. 12, 2021
Mendota Heights small businesses that have been impacted financially by COVID-19 are
encouraged to apply; many small businesses, including bars, restaurants, and home-based
ones, may be eligible. While many Mendota Heights businesses have already received
grant assistance, there are still some that may be eligible and have not applied. If you don't
know if you are eligible or have questions, please call 651-675-4481 or
email smallbusiness@dakotacda.org. For details and application information visit Dakota
County's Small Business Relief Grant Program page.
As the temperature drops
Tips on saving energy
With low temperatures expected to drop below zero this weekend in the Upper Midwest,
Xcel Energy wants to give its customers tips on how to save energy this winter. Making a
few small changes in energy use habits can lead to a more comfortable home and help
customers save money.
No Cost Ideas:
Let the Sunlight in and Keep the Cold Out - Open blinds to take advantage of the
sun's warmth during the day but close them at night to insulate against the cold air
outside.
Lower Your Thermostat - During winter months, set the thermostat between 65-70
degrees while you're home, and 58 degrees when you're away. A programmable
thermostat automatically adjusts the temperature based on your routine and could
help you save on heating costs.
Make Sure Exterior Doors are Fully Closed – A major source of a home’s heat loss
is from exterior doors that are left cracked open or not latched.
Use Fans to Your Advantage - During colder months, run ceiling fans -clockwise, so
the warm air near the ceiling is forced down.
Keep Your Oven's Heat Where it Belongs - Use your oven light or timer to avoid
opening it often while you cook;each time the door is opened even for just a few
opening it often while you cook; each time the door is opened even for just a few
seconds, the temperature drops 25 degrees. Put lids on your pots and pans while
cooking to speed up cooking time and keep the heat where it’s needed most.
Low Cost Ideas:
Lower Your Water Heater's Temperature or Insulate it - The proper temperature
for a water heater is 120 degrees Fahrenheit, and by lowering it 10 degrees, you can
save 3-5 percent on your water heating costs; you can also insulate it to maximize
efficiency.
Keep Filters Clean - Dirty furnace filters reduce airflow, requiring your furnace to
work harder and use more energy. Change the filter once a month during the winter
to reduce your heating costs by 5-15 percent.
Don't Let the Heat Escape - Affordable window sealing kits can be found in most
local home improvement stores and can help you save more than $40. Have your
home evaluated for leaky ducts, drafts around doors and windows, fireplace
dampers, and other places where air might escape.
Improve Insulation - Improving the insulation of walls, crawl spaces, floors, and
heating ducts is one of the fastest and most cost-effective ways to reduce energy
costs, saving you up to 10 percent on your monthly energy bill.
Finally, customers can take part in one of Xcel Energy’s energy efficiency programs to save
even more. Information can be found at www.xcelenergy.com through their home energy
efficiency programs and rebates link.
How does the cold weather affect airport noise?
Learn how cold weather and humidity levels affect airplane noise as explained by the
Metropolitan Airports Commission.
Recent highlights
The Federal Aviation Administration is seeking input on the results of a national
Neighborhood Environmental Survey showing an increase in airplane noise
annoyance at lower noise levels; link here to the survey and comment by March 15,
2021.
Use caution on and near the ice at Rogers Lake, and follow posted signage while
aeration is underway.
RECYCLING
Batteries don’t go in the recycling cart!
From rechargeable toothbrushes to musical greeting cards, anything that lights up or makes
sound without being plugged in has a battery. Batteries – mostly lithium-ion – are
causing fires weekly at waste and recycling facilities across the U.S. Don’t toss your
devices in your home trash or recycling.
Bring all types of batteries and electronic devices to The Recycling Zone in Eagan for free.
Help staff by taping both ends of each battery with any kind of tape. This prevents short-
circuiting and a possible fire if a battery end touches another battery or metal object.
Batteries are recycled for their metal and other components.
Upcoming recycling events
Dakota County Virtual Fix-It Clinic
Saturday, Feb. 20, 10 a.m.–noon | Register
Dakota County Live Green: Food Preservation (via Zoom)
Saturday, Feb. 27, 2–3:30 p.m.
Paper Shred Event
Saturday, April 10, 9 a.m.–noon | West St. Paul Sports Complex
NATURAL RESOURCES
Weed of the Month
Siberian elm (Ulmus pumila)
Siberian elm is an invasive, non-native tree that grows up to 60
feet tall. Its leaves grow alternately, and are 1-2 inches long,
elliptic, toothed, and pointed at the tip. The bark is dark gray
but often has whitish streaks or staining. It reproduces quickly,
especially in disturbed areas, and out-competes native trees by
producing many clusters of small, round seeds that are easily
spread by wind, and are very messy. This invasive tree was
brought from eastern Asia, and widely planted for its resistance
to Dutch elm disease and quick growth, often used as a
windbreak tree.
Control methods for Siberian elm:
Pulling: Best done when trees are small - 1” in diameter or
less.
Cutting and herbicide treatment: Best used on large trees
in the fall, but can be done any time after spring sap flow
ceases. Cut trees close to the ground, and immediately treat
the stump with herbicide.
Herbicide alternatives: Cut stumps can also be covered
using a Buckthorn Baggie, other dark-colored plastic bag, or
similar alternative when herbicide use is not desirable. Please
make sure your bag or alternative is tightly secured to the
stump, and fanned out at the bottom to catch any new shoots.
Leave the bag on the stump for a minimum of one year, and
then remember to remove!
The City also has a weed wrench for mechanical removal
that can be loaned out to residents free of charge. Contact City
Staff, below, for more information.
If you are unable to do the work of removal yourself, there are native restoration companies
that perform removal and treatment as well.
For more information: MN Department of Natural Resources or Contact: Krista Spreiter,
Natural Resources Technician at: 651-255-1123 or by Email: kristas@mendota-
heights.com.
Top photo source Friends of the Wild Flower Garden, Inc., bottom two photos source
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.
Natural Resources Management Plan update
The City of Mendota Heights is currently updating its Natural Resources Management Plan
(NRMP). The plan will serve as a tool to help guide the City in making decisions and taking
actions to conserve and manage its natural resources. A public presentation on Phase 1 of
the NRMP draft was given by the City’s consultant, Applied Ecological Services (AES), at
the February 2 City Council meeting. The Council also approved a “Notice to Proceed” to
begin development of Phase 2 of the NRMP. Members of the public are invited to comment
on the NRMP Phase 1 draft. Please submit comments or questions to Krista Spreiter,
Natural Resources Technician, at 651-255-1123 or email kristas@mendota-heights.com.
View the NRMP Phase 1 draft.
Recent highlights
Learn about restoration underway at two of the City's stormwater ponds, and steps
you can take to improve surface water quality.
Smart salting to protect our surface waters.
POLICE DEPARTMENT NEWS
Just the Facts
Incident reports 1/29/21 - 2/4/21 Previous Just the Facts publications are available in the
Laserfiche archive system on the City's website.
Sign up for emergency alerts
The Emergency Alert Program is available through the Dakota Communications Center
(DCC) at mn-dcc.org/community-notification/.
Stay in touch through Nextdoor
As a way to reach more of the community and specific neighborhoods, in addition to their
popular Facebook page MHPD has expanded their social media channels to include
Nextdoor. Nextdoor accounts are verified based on your address, and the platform is
already used by 40% of the households in Mendota Heights. Learn more and sign up
at nextdoor.com.
For immediate public safety response and non-
emergency police assistance call 9-1-1
The Police Department will also continue to process requests for police reports, gun
permits, etc. Link to the forms under Public Resources at mendota-heights.com/police.
Completed forms and general questions can be submitted via email to
pdrecords@mendota-heights.com.
PARKS & RECREATION
Outdoor rinks/warming houses
Rinks and warming houses are closed when the air temperature drops
below zero. Check for details by calling the hotline at 651-255-1174.
Warming houses are open at Friendly Hills Park and Marie Park. Due to capacity limitations,
the warming house at Wentworth Park is closed for the season.
Warming House Hours:
M-F 4 - 9 p.m. | Sat 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. | Sun Noon - 6 p.m.
Rink lights are on automatic timers from dusk until 9 p.m., 7 days a week
Stay safe before heading to the rinks:
Call the ice rink/warming house hotline at 651-255-1174 for conditions and updates
Dress for the weather, bring proper gear, and plan your time outdoors according to
temperature and weather
The City has three hockey and three pleasure rinks located at:
Friendly Hills Park | 2360 Pueblo Lane
Marie Park | 1780 Lilac Lane
Wentworth Park | 739 Wentworth Ave (Warming house closed)
Winter recreation programs
See what's coming up for winter fun and register for open programs
at secure.rec1.com/MN/mendota-heights-mn/catalog. Please note that programs may
change at any time in response to public health guidance and regulations.
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
City Hall and Public Works will be closed Monday, February 15 in
observance of Presidents' Day.
Public Meetings
Meeting changes or cancellations are noted on the City's website mendota-
heights.com/calendar. Meetings take place at City Hall unless otherwise noted. Meeting
attendees should adhere to the posted City Hall safety guidelines and be aware that
capacity in the City Council Chambers will be limited. As much as possible, the community
is encouraged to watch City Council, Planning Commission, and Parks & Recreation
Commission meetings live on Cable Channel 18, online
at townsquare.tv/webstreaming (available live or for replay), or through dial-in when offered.
Select Airport Relations Commission meetings are broadcast on Cable Channel 19.
Occasionally broadcasted channels may change; check Town Square Television's listings
for updates.
City Council Work Session | February 9, 3:15 p.m.
This work session can be attended via dial-in audio. Check the City's website for
connection information.
Parks & Recreation Commission | February 9, 6:30 p.m.
City Council | February 16, 6:00 p.m.
Planning Commission | February 23, 7:00 p.m.
City Business Hours
City Hall: Monday - Thursday, 7 a.m.-4:30 p.m. | Friday 7-11:30 a.m.
Police Department: Monday - Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Public Works Building: Monday - Friday, 7 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
City Hall Contact Information
Official Website of the City of Mendota Heights, Minnesota 1101 Victoria Curve Mendota Heights, MN 55118 Phone: 651-452-1850
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