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2022-March April Heights HighlightsMENDOTA HEIGHTS HEIGHTS HIGHLIGHTSMH Last fall, the first Mendota Heights Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) officially formed after 20 residents completed a nine-week training program taught by the Police and Fire Departments. CERT is a national program implemented in cities and counties across the country, including in other communities around Minnesota. The program is for civilians interested in volunteering to support public safety when called upon in response to local disasters or events. This may include helping first responders in the aftermath of a natural disaster, such as a flood or tornado, or assisting with a search and rescue. CERT volun- teers support emergency response in Mendota Heights as well as surrounding communities. CERT is also an ongoing program, with the goal that after initial training the members assume leadership of the program aided by Mendota Heights Public Safety. CERT members participate in continuous education for emergency preparedness, and practice their skills and training excercises year-round. Initial curriculum that CERT members are trained in includes identifying and anticipating hazards, reducing fire hazards in the home and workplace, extinguishing small fires, assisting emergency responders, conducting light search and rescue, setting up medical treatment areas, applying basic medical techniques, reducing survivor stress, and team organization. In addition to classrom learning, program participants experience hands-on training and disaster simulation testing. CERT helps to expand the capacity of public safety in an emergency and helps to build strong working relationships between emergency responders and the public. Familiarity with partners, tools, and communication resources can make a big difference in creating an effective team approach . Watch for CERT members at community events where they may be exercising trainings. You may also see these volun- teers in action helping with community emergency plans, neighborhood exercises, preparedness outreach, fire safety education, and supporting workplace safety. Congratulations to the first Mendota Heights CERT program graduates and thank you for serving the community! Rent a Picnic Shelter City of Mendota Heights 1101 Victoria Curve Mendota Heights, MN 55118 Now Hiring Summer Seasonal MARCH • APRIL 2022 • ISSUE 126 Introducing the Mendota Heights COMMUNITY EMERGENGY RESPONSE TEAM DID YOU KNOW? Brine keeps our roads safe when they get slippery with ice! Brine is a salty water mixture that can be applied to roads before a snow or ice event. By putting this down before a storm, the salt helps to prevent the snow and ice from bonding to the pavement and creating slippery road conditions. In addition to helping keep our roads safer for driving, the use of a brine instead of rock salt helps the environment by keeping up to 30% less salt from going into lakes, rivers and streams. WINTER PARKING RESTRICTIONS END After March 31 overnight parking is allowed on public streets. STREET SWEEPING Stay tuned for dates. When sweepers are out, help protect water quality: ⯀ Keep vehicles off of street until both sides are cleaned.⯀Do not push/rake any debris into streets (City Code).⯀Keep trash cans behind the curb line. REPORT MAILBOX OR LAWN DAMAGE The City will replace or repair damage by City plows to lawns and also properly installed mailboxes: up to $75 for post and $75 for the mailbox. Call City Hall or complete an online form: mendotaheightsmn.gov, search Report a Mailbox. REPORT A POTHOLE Call Public Works or complete an online form: mendotaheightsmn.gov, search Report a Pothole. Depending on the road, repair requests go through Dakota County Transportation, MnDOT, or the City. REPLACE BATTERIES IN SMOKE AND CO ALARMS As we “Spring Ahead” stay safe and change those batteries! PARK FIELDS Please try to limit use of ball and soccer fields until they have dried out and the ground is firm. PARK COURTESY ⯀Dogs must be on a leash six feet or less at all times in parks & in public areas (City Code); exception the off-leash Dog Park on Acacia.⯀You must pick up pet waste (City Code).⯀ Tobacco products including E-cigarettes/vaping are not permitted (City Code). SEASONAL REMINDERS If you’d like a rewarding part-time job this summer, check out our summer seasonal positions! We’re hiring for: ⯀Golf instructors and assistants⯀Golf course clubhouse workers⯀Pickleball instructors and assistants⯀Tennis instructors and assistants⯀Parks/Public Works maintenance Learn more/application info: mendotaheightsmn.gov/employment Our park shelters offer a unique outdoor setting for hosting reunions, parties, workplace gatherings, and other special events. When shelters are rented you have exclusive use of them during the rental time specified. PARK LOCATIONS FRIENDLY HILLS 2360 Pueblo Lane KENSINGTON 2627 Concord Way 🅔🅒 MENDAKOTA 2171 Dodd Road 🅔🅒 ROGERS LAKE 1000 Wagon Wheel Trail 🅔 VALLEY PARK 821 Marie Avenue WENTWORTH 739 Wentworth Ave🅔Electrical avail. 🅒Comfort (permanent) restrooms avail. Apply online through Recreation Registration or complete a rental application form at mendotaheightsmn.gov/parksrecreation. Your application request will be reviewed and upon approval and payment a permit will be issued. Contact Parks and Recreation for questions. HOW TO APPLY RENTAL COST Resident $50 Non-resident $75 Resident business/org. $75 Non-resident business/org. $125 Cost is a flat fee (not per-hour). The price above includes a $25 permit application fee. Four tables are included on site; additional tables are available to rent at $15 each. INSIDE 3 A LOOK INSIDE CITY COMMISSIONS 6 FIREFIGHTER RECRUITMENT PROGRAMS & EVENTS75SUSTAINABLE LANDSCAPES © 2022 City of Mendota Heights SPRING TREE SALE Order online starting at 8am Purchase a quality shade tree for your landscape at a discounted rate of $60. Trees are provided by Tree Trust and come in a ten-gallon potted container, with a trunk width of approximately one inch in diameter. Orders must be picked up on Saturday, May 14, at the Mendota Heights Public Works Facility. Limit two trees per resident address; limited tree inventory is available first-come, first-serve. Order Online: treetrust.org/get-a-tree/mendotaheights STEPHANIE’S CORNER Spring brings renewed energy and excitement — and I hope you enjoy reading our refreshed Heights Highlights newsletter! In addition to a new visual design, we look forward to connecting in print more frequently this year with delivery every-other month. Thank you to the 140 residents who participated in the recent online Communications Survey. Your comments and suggestions guided our work to refresh how we communicate and connect with residents. As we emerge from our winter weather, thank you to our top-notch Public Works team for their efforts in keeping our city operational and safe during snow and ice events. Their technical execution of snow removal, along with their knowledge of road conditions while replacing much of our salt with eco-friendly brine solution keeps us moving forward — literally and figuratively. A shout out to Parks and Recreation, Public Works, Police Officers and Firefighters as well as other City staff members for support- ing new and returning winter recreation activities. Our first ever Frozen Fun Fest was a huge success! Even with some tricky weather, we had 60 kids learning to ice fish on Rogers Lake, a community hike at Valley Park, 85 residents of all ages participat- ing in the coloring contest, a live music performance at Menda- kota, winter kickball, and a multitude of Medallion Hunters in our parks system. Congratulations to Kim Browning, the first Medal- lion Hunt Winner of Mendota Heights! As we expand and enhance events to create community, we welcome your feed- back and ideas. Another point of pride for our city is the launch of the City’s first Natural Resources Commission. Thanks to all who applied to serve. We are grateful for our many residents who are willing to share their time and expertise with our city. Read more about the work of our four advisory commissions in this issue. Lastly, the Fire Department is recruiting for volunteer, paid-on-call firefighters. If you have a heart to serve and give back to our community, please consider applying to join this dedicated team (see page six). Stephanie Levine, Mayor 2 CITY HALL 1101 VICTORIA CURVE • MENDOTA HEIGHTS • 55118 City Administration: 651-452-1850 | Fax 651-452-8940 Lobby Hours: M–TH: 7am–4:30pm, F: 7am–11:30am Email: cityhall@mendotaheightsmn.gov POLICE 1101 VICTORIA CURVE • MENDOTA HEIGHTS • 55118 Police Administration/Records: 651-452-1366 Lobby Hours: M–F: 8am–4:30pm Email: pdrecords@mendotaheightsmn.gov FIRE 2121 DODD ROAD • MENDOTA HEIGHTS • 55120 Fire Administration: 651-452-1850 PUBLIC WORKS FACILITY 2431 LEXINGTON AVE S • MENDOTA HEIGHTS • 55120 Building: 651-454-4059 Building Hours: M–F: 7am–3:30pm STEPHANIE LEVINE, MAYOR 651-686-0340 | C. 651-302-0861 | slevine@mendotaheightsmn.gov ULTAN DUGGAN 651-452-5179 | uduggan@mendotaheightsmn.gov JOHN R. MAZZITELLO 651-249-7306 | jmazzitello@mendotaheightsmn.gov JAY MILLER 651-994-0482 | jmiller@mendotaheightsmn.gov JOEL PAPER 612-237-1133 | jpaper@mendotaheightsmn.gov Meetings are held at City Hall unless otherwise specified. Visit mendotaheightsmn.gov/calendar to check for meeting dates & times. Meetings are livestreamed online and for replay at townsquare.tv/webstreaming. Occasionally broadcast channels may change; check Town Square Television’s cable listings for details. Regular meetings are typically held as follows; scheduling changes may occur: CITY COUNCIL 1ST & 3RD TUES | 6PM CHANNEL 18/798 HD AIRPORT REL. COMM.* 3RD WED OF ODD-NUMBERED MONTHS | 6PM NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. 2ND WED | 6PM (April start) CHANNEL TO BE ANNOUNCED PARK & REC COMM. 2ND TUES | 6:30PM CHANNEL 15/859 HD PLANNING COMM. 4TH TUES | 7PM CHANNEL 18/798 HD * ARC meetings are not regularly broadcast CITY COUNCIL PUBLIC MEETINGS SAVE THE DATE: Mendota Heights State of the City Address · May 17, 2022 CALL 911 for emergency and non-emergency Police and Fire response. How to use a Quick Response (QR) code 1. Open your smart phone’s camera 2. Hover over the code as if taking a photo 3. Click the link that pops up mendotaheightsmn.gov NATIONAL PRESCRIPTION DRUG TAKE BACK DAY 10am-2pm • Mendota Heights City Hall The Police Department will be collecting unused prescription medications to be disposed of for free. Drive through City Hall’s main entrance turnaround and they will collect your items. Note that sharps or needles will not be accepted. Unused Epi-pens that have expired or are no longer needed will be accepted if they are in their original safety packaging. Drop off is anonymous. If you cannot make it to this event, drop these items off 24/7, any day of the year, in the green drop box in the MHPD lobby. PICKLEBALL WITH PUBLIC SAFETY & RIBBON CUTTING 5:30-7pm · Friendly Hills Park Play recreational pickleball with MH Public Safety personnel as we celebrate the opening of the new courts. All ages are welcome! Free event · no registration required. 7 CITY CALENDAR mendotaheightsmn.gov/calendar KIDS GARAGE SALE 10am-Noon • Veterans Memorial Community Ctr. 8055 Barbara Ave, Inver Grove Heights This is a great opportunity for kids to make decisions on their own, learn money management, and gain confidence. Each participant receives one poster board to promote their items, one table (6’x8’), and one chair. Participants are in charge of handling all sales and must bring cash for change. All leftover items must be taken home. Ages 6–15 · $5 per participant · registration required EVENTS & Programs RECREATION REGISTRATION mendotaheightsmn.gov or register at City Hall Sat APRIL 30 SUMMER RECREATION REGISTRATION Register online or at Mendota Heights City Hall Our most popular programs have returned, along with exciting new ones like adult pickleball lessons. Browse/register for programs online or at City Hall during business hours. An online digital catalog is available to view/print, pick up a printed catalog at City Hall, or call 651-452-1850 to request one via mail. Sat APRIL 30 Thurs APRIL 21 Mon MARCH 14 Events & programs may be subject to change. JUNIOR/ADULT GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP 9am shotgun start • Par 3 Community Golf Course 1695 Dodd Road, Mendota Heights Join us for a recreational two-person scramble tournament just like the pro’s do in Orlando. All participants must have their own golf clubs. $20 per team · registration required Sat APRIL9 Save the date to shop the sale! SPRING BREAK YOUTH FIELD TRIPS ICE SKATING & BOWLING 8am–4:30pm Drop off/Pick up: Doug Woog Arena, SSP Ice skate inside the arena in the morning and bowl the afternoon away at Concord Lanes; rental skates included. Ages 6–12 · $34 per participant · registration required SEAQUEST & SPORTS IN THE DOME 8am–3:30pm Drop off/Pick up: WSP Regional Athletics Ctr. Dome Touch, see, and interact with animals from five different continents, then enjoy afternoon group games and free time. Ages 6–12 · $36 per participant · registration required PAPER SHRED 9am-Noon • WSP Sports Complex 1650 Oakdale Ave, West St. Paul Shred and recycle confidential material at this event for free - no limit. Use paper bags to put materials in rather than boxes, and remove 3-ring binders, spiral binders, and binder clips. Pioneer SecureShred staff collects and secures materials into a locking security container and transports them directly to the mobile shredding vehicle. The material is deposited directly into the shredding chamber without being touched by human hands. The shredded material is then sent to a recycler. Open to residents of MH, Lilydale, SSP, Sunfish Lake, & WSP. Partially funded by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and Dakota County. WHAT TO SHRED: Credit card offers Receipts Check stubs Old bills Banking & loan information Medical records Tax records Investment records Social Security numbers Internal correspondence Sat APRIL 30 Mon MARCH 28 TuesMARCH 29 NOWOPEN TOUR DE REC 6–7pm • Mendakota Park Join us for free youth and family activities: games, sports, crafts, and more. Drop-in program · no registration required. Weather line: 651-259-2671 Thurs APRIL 7 Order early - this sale goes quickly! Subscribe to City Communications & Connect on Social at mendotaheightsmn.gov/communications. SCAN HERE MendotaHeightsMN MHParksandRec MendotaHeightsPD Mendota_Heights MHeightsPD Mendota Heights eNews & Agenda Packets polco.us/mendotaheights X Correction added after print: The Paper Shred event is Sat, April 23, 2022 6 3 SA FENeighborhoods Kelly Torkelson joined the team at the City of Mendota Heights as the new assistant city administrator in November 2021. Kelly has a Bachelor of Arts degree from Gustavus Adolphus College and a master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of Kansas. Kelly has six years of experience working in local government administration and comes to Mendota Heights after serving as the assistant city administrator in Wyoming, Minnesota. Having previously worked at Dakota County, Kelly is excited to be back in the metro area. Kelly also serves as 2021-2022 president of the Association of Public Management Professionals. Kelly is recently married and lives with her husband and cat in Little Canada. MattersCOMMUNITY Welcome to Michelle O’Connor Muller who was appointed to the Parks and Recreation Commission by the City Council on Feb 2, 2022. She fills a vacancy left by exited Commis- sioner and Chair Steve Goldade. Bob Klepperich has been named as chair for this commission and Jaffrey Blanks vice chair. Additionally, thank you to the following commissioners who have been reappointed by the City Council to serve another three-year term: ⯀ Parks and Recreation Commissioners Stephanie Meyer and Daniel Sherer. ⯀ Planning Commissioners Andrew Katz, Brian Petschel, and Michael Toth. ⯀ Airport Relations Commissioner Jeffrey Hamiel. City Commissions are an important part of how the City of Mendota Heights functions. Decision making is ultimately the responsibility of the City Council, but considering the range of topics that the Council reviews and acts on, City Commissions help to provide additional context, insight, and public feedback on various topics. The City of Mendota Heights has a Planning Commission, a Parks and Recreation Commission, an Airport Relations Commission and now a newly formed Natural Resources Commission. These advisory groups are made of residents who have applied and been appointed by the City Council to provide insights, perspectives, and guidance on relevant city issues. WelcomeNew Staff Kelly Torkelson Assistant City Administrator Six new firefighters and a new fire captain received their official badge pinning and took their oath of office at the November 16, 2021, City Council meeting. The group of firefighters were hired in December of 2020 and have completed and passed their field training and probationary period. At the same meeting, Captain Dan Willems was also formally appointed to his promotion as captain; the ceremony had been delayed from his promotion in April of 2020 due to the pandemic. At the City Council meeting on December 7, 2021, Kyle Pagel and Beau Jacobson took their oath of office for police officers, and Phil McCarty the oath of office for his promotion to police sergeant. Their families were in attendance and participated in the badge pinning ceremony. Congratulations to all and thank you for your service to the community! Public Safety PINNINGS & PROMOTIONS Airport Relations Commission (ARC) Established in 1993, the ARC advises and makes recommendations to the City Council on matters relating to airport noise and operations at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. The commission monitors proposed rules, procedures and programs which impact air noise within the city and makes recommendations regarding strategies to mitigate the city's air noise exposure. Parks and Recreation Commission (PRC) The PRC advises the City Council on matters pertaining to parks and recreation programs. It makes recommendations relating to the acquisition, development and improvement of the city's parks and recreational facilities and advises the Council on the establishment of written rules and regulations for the use and management of city parks. Planning Commission (PC) The PC performs studies and investigations on general planning matters including zoning, platting and transportation. The commission reviews all planning applications and recommends approval or denial based on conformance with zoning regulations and the city's Comprehensive Plan. Natural Resources Commission (NRC) The NRC will advise the City Council on matters pertaining to Natural Resources, sustainability, environmental and climate stewardship, and opportunities for the advancement of those areas including recommending policies and initiatives that enhance and preserve natural resources within the city. Their work will include preparing and assessing plans, policies, goals and ordinances relating to their subject matter. A Look Inside: CITY COMMISSIONS Find contact information for City Commissions at mendotaheightsmn.gov/advisorycommissions City Commission Updates The newest Mendota Heights firefighters (L-R): Jeff Bostic, Michael Agan, Luke Olson, David Perrault, Steve Reamer, Dustin Truesdell. MHFD Captain Willems MHPD Sergeant McCarty MHPD Officers Jacobson (L) & Pagel (R) Tips to Avoid Scams It is easy to fall victim to a scam because scammers prey on your worries and fears, manipulating you to take “urgent” action. Avoid becoming a victim by remembering: ⯀ PAUS E—BREATHE—THINK: wait 24 hours before “clicking” or acting. ⯀ NEVER buy gift cards to pay bills, warrants or debts. ⯀ “Minnesota Nice” does not mean you must engage; rather, simply hang up the phone, nicely. ⯀ Let unknown numbers go to voicemail to leave a message, which you can then carefully screen for legitimacy. Learn more at consumer.ftc.gov. Have you ever thought about being a firefighter? The City of Mendota Heights has a paid-on-call volunteer Fire Department which means that all of the men and women who serve as firefighters in our community, do so on top of other full-time responsibilities. Mendota Heights firefighters include business owners, students, parents, and much more! New firefighters go through extensive training and practice during their first year to build their knowledge and skills for effective emergency response. Here’s what some of the firefighter recruits from the past year have to share about joining the Fire Department and their experiences thus far: Firefighter Jeff Bostic is a local business owner. When asked what inspired him to become a firefighter for Mendota Heights, he said, “It's something I have had an interest in since a child. I also thought it was a great way to be involved with the community and give back to the community.” Firefighter Dave Perrault described his firefighter experience thus far as, “Busy, but rewarding. I have been on for just over a year, and in that year we have gone through all of our initial training. Starting with little or no experience, myself, and the other rookies, are now Hazmat Operators, Firefighter I and II certified, and Emergency Medical Responders. I am looking forward to putting my new skills to use!” When asked what his favorite part of being a Mendota Heights firefighter is, Luke Olson indicates, “What really stands out to me are the unexpected friendships made. The MHFD is full of very talented and very dedicated people that come from all different types of backgrounds. If you have any interest at all, go for it. Do not be afraid!” If you’re interested in becoming a firefighter: Complete the online Become a Firefighter Interest Form and learn more: mendotaheightsmn.gov/becomeafirefighter Firefighters come in all shapes, sizes, genders and backgrounds. Firefighting is the greatest team sport on Earth. We will accentuate your strengths, help you develop and overcome your weaknesses, and hone your skillset to turn you into a great teammate. MHFD Firefighter Luke Olson Become a Firefighter NOW RECRUITING Landscapes that are sustainable, diverse, and environmentally beneficial are landscapes designed with climate, wildlife, water quality, and other environmental benefits in mind. Here are some tips and ideas to start planning for this season: Say goodbye to recycling confusion by focusing on these basic items that are accepted by all recycling service providers in Dakota County. Commonly recycled items like milk jugs and metal cans are in big demand by companies that make new products like new cans, low-maintenance decking and more. Make sure bottles, jars and containers are empty and dry before recycling. They don't have to be perfect — just free of most residue like food and liquids. Leave caps on containers and flatten boxes. FOCUS ON RECYCLING THESE ITEMS PAPER • Newspaper and inserts • Magazines and catalogs • Mail and office papers CARDBOARD • Corrugated cardboard • Paperboard (e.g., cracker boxes) CARTONS • Milk and juice cartons • Soup, broth and wine cartons • Juice boxes METAL CANS • Aluminum, tin and steel cans GLASS BOTTLES AND JARS PLASTIC BOTTLES, CONTAINERS AND JUGS • Containers numbered 1, 2 or 5 • Soda, juice and water bottles • Milk and juice jugs • Margarine, cottage cheese, cream cheese and other tubs and lids • Laundry detergent bottles and jugs • Clear berry and produce containers Leave out plastic bags, batteries, black plastic, food and things like rope and string lights that can tangle around moving machines. If you’re wondering about a specific item, use the Recycling Guide at www.dakotacounty.us, search recycling guide. Partially funded by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and Dakota County. By Your Local Minnesota Water Steward Salt spread on our sidewalks, driveways, and streets is “forever pollu- tion” in our lakes, ponds, and wetlands, as well as groundwater. While salt dissolves so you can’t see it; it never breaks down. Stormwater and winter melt that carries chloride and goes down the drain on the street where you live flows to the closest water body, or infiltrates into our groundwater, increasing salinity in these freshwater bodies. Unfortunately, much is true for the salt (chloride) from softened hot water from the shower, bath, and laundry water that flows down the drains in our homes. Our wastewater facilities are not designed to remove chloride. Chloride that goes down the drains in our homes from water softener treatment ends up in rivers, lakes, and streams. High levels of chloride in our waters is toxic to fish, insects, fresh water vege- tation, and more. Many Mendota Heights residents may not actually need to soften home water. According to Jim Bode of St. Paul Regional Water Services (SPRWS), which serves Mendota Heights, “St. Paul Regional Water Services has been softening the water supplied to our customers since the late 1930s. The quality of our product is such that most, if not all, customers do not need an in-home water softener. This alleviates the burden of purchasing and maintaining water softeners and reduces the amount of chloride from softener regeneration that is sent to the local and regional sanitary sewer system.” SPRWS softens water to below 100 parts per million (ppm) of total hard- ness which is the equivalent of less than six grains per gallon total hard- ness, which is below the “hard water” classification of water hardness. To independently determine if your household water truly needs to be softened, an inexpensive “water hardness test kit” can be purchased. While SPRWS does not endorse any particular test kit, they advise that a Google search will reveal a variety of reputable choices. Water Softener Salt That Goes Down the Drain in Our Homes is WATER POLLUTION Be a CONFIDENT RECYCLER How to Create a SUSTAINABLE LANDSCAPE 4 Welcome Spring PLANT A NATIVE SERVICEBERRY TREE By Your Local Master Gardeners Would you like to attract more birds to your yard? Would you like to provide a food source for the larval forms of several butterflies including viceroys, admirals, and hairstreaks, and provide pollen and nectar to pollinating native bees? Consider planting a serviceberry tree. There are three serviceberry trees growing in the pollinator garden in front of Mendota Heights City Hall. If you stop by in early spring you may see them covered with delicate white flowers that soon give way to edible berries. These berries are what attract birds. Regular visitors SUBTAINABLE SUBURBS DAKOTA COUNTY HOME ORGANICS DROP-OFF Join 17% of Mendota Heights households that are recycling food scraps. Learn more & sign up: www.dakotacounty.us, search organics. include cedar waxwings, robins, gray catbirds, orioles and thrushes. And, because they are one of the first flowering trees in our Minnesota landscape, they benefit native queen bees searching for nectar and pollen as they emerge hungry from their overwintering homes. Serviceberry trees are available for purchase at nurseries in clump form or tree form. This upright shrub or small tree has spreading branches and can reach a mature height of 15 to 25 feet. The clump form can provide screening between different areas of the yard or between yards. This is a popular small tree and is truly a plant for all seasons: not only does it have beautiful white spring flowers but it also has lovely green leaves that turn a striking orange to red fall color and silver bark. They grow in full sun to part shade and can be used as an understory tree in a woodland garden. And, because they are on the small side, they can be planted near a patio, courtyard or entry garden. They tolerate a wide range of soils and have few pest problems. If you are one of the many homeowners in our community who want to provide quality habitat for our native wildlife, you can’t go wrong by adding a serviceberry tree to your landscape. 5 REDUCE TURF IN YOUR LANDSCAPE Replace with a more sustainable landscape feature, such as a native prairie planting, trees and shrubs, or no-mow lawn. These features do not require the maintenance that traditional turf requires such as mowing, watering, and the use of chemicals. PLANT A RAINGARDEN Raingardens are shallow depressions that are planted with flood-tolerant perennials that capture rainwater runoff, allowing it to soak into the ground, instead of flowing to our lakes, rivers, streams and wetlands, carrying pollutants and nutrients with it. For more information on raingardens, and how to install them visit mendotaheightsmn.gov/raingardens. REDIRECT DOWNSPOUTS Aim them at vegetated areas and away from lawns, driveways, sidewalks, and other impervious surfaces. This allows stormwater from our roofs to soak into the ground instead of flowing off your property and into the storm sewer system. Stormwater carries pollutants with it such as leaves, grass clippings, and chemicals that flow to our surface waters. Some of these pollutants are captured by stormwater treatment features, however these features are often costly to maintain. USE A RAINBARREL TO CAPTURE STORMWATER FROM YOUR DOWNSPOUTS Rainbarrels can be purchased from Dakota County. For more information, please visit Recycling Association of Minnesota at recycleminnesota.org. MAKE A PLAN Consider energy savings in how you use your yard and landscape. For more information, visit extension.umn.edu/lawns-and-landscapes/landscape-design. PLANT A TREE A healthy tree canopy combats climate change, improves air and water quality, and provides food and habitat for birds, pollinators, and other wildlife. PLANT FOR DIVERSITY This means planting a variety of plant, shrub, and tree species within your own landscape. In any healthy ecosystem, there is a variety of trees, shrubs, and plants that exist, providing habitat and food for a wide-range of wildlife. A diverse and wide range of vegetation also ensures that a disturbance such as a disease, or an invasive pest like the Emerald Ash Borer that affects a single species, does not become a catastrophic event. PLANT THE RIGHT PLANT, TREE OR SHRUB IN THE ‘RIGHT PLACE’ Consider moisture and light needs. This ensures the success of your plant, tree or shrub without a lot of help from you. FOLLOW PROPER TREE CARE AND PLANTING PROCEDURES This ensures your tree is healthy and long-lived. The following link provides more information and tips for tree care and proper planting: arborday.org/trees/planting/bare-root.cfm. Landscapes that are sustainable, diverse, and environmentally beneficial are landscapes designed with climate, wildlife, water quality, and other environmental benefits in mind. Here are some tips and ideas to start planning for this season: Say goodbye to recycling confusion by focusing on these basic items that are accepted by all recycling service providers in Dakota County. Commonly recycled items like milk jugs and metal cans are in big demand by companies that make new products like new cans, low-maintenance decking and more. Make sure bottles, jars and containers are empty and dry before recycling. They don't have to be perfect — just free of most residue like food and liquids. Leave caps on containers and flatten boxes. FOCUS ON RECYCLING THESE ITEMS PAPER • Newspaper and inserts • Magazines and catalogs • Mail and office papers CARDBOARD • Corrugated cardboard • Paperboard (e.g., cracker boxes) CARTONS • Milk and juice cartons • Soup, broth and wine cartons • Juice boxes METAL CANS • Aluminum, tin and steel cans GLASS BOTTLES AND JARS PLASTIC BOTTLES, CONTAINERS AND JUGS • Containers numbered 1, 2 or 5 • Soda, juice and water bottles • Milk and juice jugs • Margarine, cottage cheese, cream cheese and other tubs and lids • Laundry detergent bottles and jugs • Clear berry and produce containers Leave out plastic bags, batteries, black plastic, food and things like rope and string lights that can tangle around moving machines. If you’re wondering about a specific item, use the Recycling Guide at www.dakotacounty.us, search recycling guide. Partially funded by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and Dakota County. By Your Local Minnesota Water Steward Salt spread on our sidewalks, driveways, and streets is “forever pollu- tion” in our lakes, ponds, and wetlands, as well as groundwater. While salt dissolves so you can’t see it; it never breaks down. Stormwater and winter melt that carries chloride and goes down the drain on the street where you live flows to the closest water body, or infiltrates into our groundwater, increasing salinity in these freshwater bodies. Unfortunately, much is true for the salt (chloride) from softened hot water from the shower, bath, and laundry water that flows down the drains in our homes. Our wastewater facilities are not designed to remove chloride. Chloride that goes down the drains in our homes from water softener treatment ends up in rivers, lakes, and streams. High levels of chloride in our waters is toxic to fish, insects, fresh water vege- tation, and more. Many Mendota Heights residents may not actually need to soften home water. According to Jim Bode of St. Paul Regional Water Services (SPRWS), which serves Mendota Heights, “St. Paul Regional Water Services has been softening the water supplied to our customers since the late 1930s. The quality of our product is such that most, if not all, customers do not need an in-home water softener. This alleviates the burden of purchasing and maintaining water softeners and reduces the amount of chloride from softener regeneration that is sent to the local and regional sanitary sewer system.” SPRWS softens water to below 100 parts per million (ppm) of total hard- ness which is the equivalent of less than six grains per gallon total hard- ness, which is below the “hard water” classification of water hardness. To independently determine if your household water truly needs to be softened, an inexpensive “water hardness test kit” can be purchased. While SPRWS does not endorse any particular test kit, they advise that a Google search will reveal a variety of reputable choices. Water Softener Salt That Goes Down the Drain in Our Homes is WATER POLLUTION Be a CONFIDENT RECYCLER How to Create a SUSTAINABLE LANDSCAPE 4 Welcome Spring PLANT A NATIVE SERVICEBERRY TREE By Your Local Master Gardeners Would you like to attract more birds to your yard? Would you like to provide a food source for the larval forms of several butterflies including viceroys, admirals, and hairstreaks, and provide pollen and nectar to pollinating native bees? Consider planting a serviceberry tree. There are three serviceberry trees growing in the pollinator garden in front of Mendota Heights City Hall. If you stop by in early spring you may see them covered with delicate white flowers that soon give way to edible berries. These berries are what attract birds. Regular visitors SUBTAINABLE SUBURBS DAKOTA COUNTY HOME ORGANICS DROP-OFF Join 17% of Mendota Heights households that are recycling food scraps. Learn more & sign up: www.dakotacounty.us, search organics. include cedar waxwings, robins, gray catbirds, orioles and thrushes. And, because they are one of the first flowering trees in our Minnesota landscape, they benefit native queen bees searching for nectar and pollen as they emerge hungry from their overwintering homes. Serviceberry trees are available for purchase at nurseries in clump form or tree form. This upright shrub or small tree has spreading branches and can reach a mature height of 15 to 25 feet. The clump form can provide screening between different areas of the yard or between yards. This is a popular small tree and is truly a plant for all seasons: not only does it have beautiful white spring flowers but it also has lovely green leaves that turn a striking orange to red fall color and silver bark. They grow in full sun to part shade and can be used as an understory tree in a woodland garden. And, because they are on the small side, they can be planted near a patio, courtyard or entry garden. They tolerate a wide range of soils and have few pest problems. If you are one of the many homeowners in our community who want to provide quality habitat for our native wildlife, you can’t go wrong by adding a serviceberry tree to your landscape. 5 REDUCE TURF IN YOUR LANDSCAPE Replace with a more sustainable landscape feature, such as a native prairie planting, trees and shrubs, or no-mow lawn. These features do not require the maintenance that traditional turf requires such as mowing, watering, and the use of chemicals. PLANT A RAINGARDEN Raingardens are shallow depressions that are planted with flood-tolerant perennials that capture rainwater runoff, allowing it to soak into the ground, instead of flowing to our lakes, rivers, streams and wetlands, carrying pollutants and nutrients with it. For more information on raingardens, and how to install them visit mendotaheightsmn.gov/raingardens. REDIRECT DOWNSPOUTS Aim them at vegetated areas and away from lawns, driveways, sidewalks, and other impervious surfaces. This allows stormwater from our roofs to soak into the ground instead of flowing off your property and into the storm sewer system. Stormwater carries pollutants with it such as leaves, grass clippings, and chemicals that flow to our surface waters. Some of these pollutants are captured by stormwater treatment features, however these features are often costly to maintain. USE A RAINBARREL TO CAPTURE STORMWATER FROM YOUR DOWNSPOUTS Rainbarrels can be purchased from Dakota County. For more information, please visit Recycling Association of Minnesota at recycleminnesota.org. MAKE A PLAN Consider energy savings in how you use your yard and landscape. For more information, visit extension.umn.edu/lawns-and-landscapes/landscape-design. PLANT A TREE A healthy tree canopy combats climate change, improves air and water quality, and provides food and habitat for birds, pollinators, and other wildlife. PLANT FOR DIVERSITY This means planting a variety of plant, shrub, and tree species within your own landscape. In any healthy ecosystem, there is a variety of trees, shrubs, and plants that exist, providing habitat and food for a wide-range of wildlife. A diverse and wide range of vegetation also ensures that a disturbance such as a disease, or an invasive pest like the Emerald Ash Borer that affects a single species, does not become a catastrophic event. PLANT THE RIGHT PLANT, TREE OR SHRUB IN THE ‘RIGHT PLACE’ Consider moisture and light needs. This ensures the success of your plant, tree or shrub without a lot of help from you. FOLLOW PROPER TREE CARE AND PLANTING PROCEDURES This ensures your tree is healthy and long-lived. The following link provides more information and tips for tree care and proper planting: arborday.org/trees/planting/bare-root.cfm. 6 3 SA FENeighborhoods Kelly Torkelson joined the team at the City of Mendota Heights as the new assistant city administrator in November 2021. Kelly has a Bachelor of Arts degree from Gustavus Adolphus College and a master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of Kansas. Kelly has six years of experience working in local government administration and comes to Mendota Heights after serving as the assistant city administrator in Wyoming, Minnesota. Having previously worked at Dakota County, Kelly is excited to be back in the metro area. Kelly also serves as 2021-2022 president of the Association of Public Management Professionals. Kelly is recently married and lives with her husband and cat in Little Canada. MattersCOMMUNITY Welcome to Michelle O’Connor Muller who was appointed to the Parks and Recreation Commission by the City Council on Feb 2, 2022. She fills a vacancy left by exited Commis- sioner and Chair Steve Goldade. Bob Klepperich has been named as chair for this commission and Jaffrey Blanks vice chair. Additionally, thank you to the following commissioners who have been reappointed by the City Council to serve another three-year term: ⯀ Parks and Recreation Commissioners Stephanie Meyer and Daniel Sherer. ⯀ Planning Commissioners Andrew Katz, Brian Petschel, and Michael Toth. ⯀ Airport Relations Commissioner Jeffrey Hamiel. City Commissions are an important part of how the City of Mendota Heights functions. Decision making is ultimately the responsibility of the City Council, but considering the range of topics that the Council reviews and acts on, City Commissions help to provide additional context, insight, and public feedback on various topics. The City of Mendota Heights has a Planning Commission, a Parks and Recreation Commission, an Airport Relations Commission and now a newly formed Natural Resources Commission. These advisory groups are made of residents who have applied and been appointed by the City Council to provide insights, perspectives, and guidance on relevant city issues. WelcomeNew Staff Kelly Torkelson Assistant City Administrator Six new firefighters and a new fire captain received their official badge pinning and took their oath of office at the November 16, 2021, City Council meeting. The group of firefighters were hired in December of 2020 and have completed and passed their field training and probationary period. At the same meeting, Captain Dan Willems was also formally appointed to his promotion as captain; the ceremony had been delayed from his promotion in April of 2020 due to the pandemic. At the City Council meeting on December 7, 2021, Kyle Pagel and Beau Jacobson took their oath of office for police officers, and Phil McCarty the oath of office for his promotion to police sergeant. Their families were in attendance and participated in the badge pinning ceremony. Congratulations to all and thank you for your service to the community! Public Safety PINNINGS & PROMOTIONS Airport Relations Commission (ARC) Established in 1993, the ARC advises and makes recommendations to the City Council on matters relating to airport noise and operations at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. The commission monitors proposed rules, procedures and programs which impact air noise within the city and makes recommendations regarding strategies to mitigate the city's air noise exposure. Parks and Recreation Commission (PRC) The PRC advises the City Council on matters pertaining to parks and recreation programs. It makes recommendations relating to the acquisition, development and improvement of the city's parks and recreational facilities and advises the Council on the establishment of written rules and regulations for the use and management of city parks. Planning Commission (PC) The PC performs studies and investigations on general planning matters including zoning, platting and transportation. The commission reviews all planning applications and recommends approval or denial based on conformance with zoning regulations and the city's Comprehensive Plan. Natural Resources Commission (NRC) The NRC will advise the City Council on matters pertaining to Natural Resources, sustainability, environmental and climate stewardship, and opportunities for the advancement of those areas including recommending policies and initiatives that enhance and preserve natural resources within the city. Their work will include preparing and assessing plans, policies, goals and ordinances relating to their subject matter. A Look Inside: CITY COMMISSIONS Find contact information for City Commissions at mendotaheightsmn.gov/advisorycommissions City Commission Updates The newest Mendota Heights firefighters (L-R): Jeff Bostic, Michael Agan, Luke Olson, David Perrault, Steve Reamer, Dustin Truesdell. MHFD Captain Willems MHPD Sergeant McCarty MHPD Officers Jacobson (L) & Pagel (R) Tips to Avoid Scams It is easy to fall victim to a scam because scammers prey on your worries and fears, manipulating you to take “urgent” action. Avoid becoming a victim by remembering: ⯀ PAUS E—BREATHE—THINK: wait 24 hours before “clicking” or acting. ⯀ NEVER buy gift cards to pay bills, warrants or debts. ⯀ “Minnesota Nice” does not mean you must engage; rather, simply hang up the phone, nicely. ⯀ Let unknown numbers go to voicemail to leave a message, which you can then carefully screen for legitimacy. Learn more at consumer.ftc.gov. Have you ever thought about being a firefighter? The City of Mendota Heights has a paid-on-call volunteer Fire Department which means that all of the men and women who serve as firefighters in our community, do so on top of other full-time responsibilities. Mendota Heights firefighters include business owners, students, parents, and much more! New firefighters go through extensive training and practice during their first year to build their knowledge and skills for effective emergency response. Here’s what some of the firefighter recruits from the past year have to share about joining the Fire Department and their experiences thus far: Firefighter Jeff Bostic is a local business owner. When asked what inspired him to become a firefighter for Mendota Heights, he said, “It's something I have had an interest in since a child. I also thought it was a great way to be involved with the community and give back to the community.” Firefighter Dave Perrault described his firefighter experience thus far as, “Busy, but rewarding. I have been on for just over a year, and in that year we have gone through all of our initial training. Starting with little or no experience, myself, and the other rookies, are now Hazmat Operators, Firefighter I and II certified, and Emergency Medical Responders. I am looking forward to putting my new skills to use!” When asked what his favorite part of being a Mendota Heights firefighter is, Luke Olson indicates, “What really stands out to me are the unexpected friendships made. The MHFD is full of very talented and very dedicated people that come from all different types of backgrounds. If you have any interest at all, go for it. Do not be afraid!” If you’re interested in becoming a firefighter: Complete the online Become a Firefighter Interest Form and learn more: mendotaheightsmn.gov/becomeafirefighter Firefighters come in all shapes, sizes, genders and backgrounds. Firefighting is the greatest team sport on Earth. We will accentuate your strengths, help you develop and overcome your weaknesses, and hone your skillset to turn you into a great teammate. MHFD Firefighter Luke Olson Become a Firefighter NOW RECRUITING SPRING TREE SALE Order online starting at 8am Purchase a quality shade tree for your landscape at a discounted rate of $60. Trees are provided by Tree Trust and come in a ten-gallon potted container, with a trunk width of approximately one inch in diameter. Orders must be picked up on Saturday, May 14, at the Mendota Heights Public Works Facility. Limit two trees per resident address; limited tree inventory is available first-come, first-serve. Order Online: treetrust.org/get-a-tree/mendotaheights STEPHANIE’S CORNER Spring brings renewed energy and excitement — and I hope you enjoy reading our refreshed Heights Highlights newsletter! In addition to a new visual design, we look forward to connecting in print more frequently this year with delivery every-other month. Thank you to the 140 residents who participated in the recent online Communications Survey. Your comments and suggestions guided our work to refresh how we communicate and connect with residents. As we emerge from our winter weather, thank you to our top-notch Public Works team for their efforts in keeping our city operational and safe during snow and ice events. Their technical execution of snow removal, along with their knowledge of road conditions while replacing much of our salt with eco-friendly brine solution keeps us moving forward — literally and figuratively. A shout out to Parks and Recreation, Public Works, Police Officers and Firefighters as well as other City staff members for support- ing new and returning winter recreation activities. Our first ever Frozen Fun Fest was a huge success! Even with some tricky weather, we had 60 kids learning to ice fish on Rogers Lake, a community hike at Valley Park, 85 residents of all ages participat- ing in the coloring contest, a live music performance at Menda- kota, winter kickball, and a multitude of Medallion Hunters in our parks system. Congratulations to Kim Browning, the first Medal- lion Hunt Winner of Mendota Heights! As we expand and enhance events to create community, we welcome your feed- back and ideas. Another point of pride for our city is the launch of the City’s first Natural Resources Commission. Thanks to all who applied to serve. We are grateful for our many residents who are willing to share their time and expertise with our city. Read more about the work of our four advisory commissions in this issue. Lastly, the Fire Department is recruiting for volunteer, paid-on-call firefighters. If you have a heart to serve and give back to our community, please consider applying to join this dedicated team (see page six). Stephanie Levine, Mayor 2 CITY HALL 1101 VICTORIA CURVE • MENDOTA HEIGHTS • 55118 City Administration: 651-452-1850 | Fax 651-452-8940 Lobby Hours: M–TH: 7am–4:30pm, F: 7am–11:30am Email: cityhall@mendotaheightsmn.gov POLICE 1101 VICTORIA CURVE • MENDOTA HEIGHTS • 55118 Police Administration/Records: 651-452-1366 Lobby Hours: M–F: 8am–4:30pm Email: pdrecords@mendotaheightsmn.gov FIRE 2121 DODD ROAD • MENDOTA HEIGHTS • 55120 Fire Administration: 651-452-1850 PUBLIC WORKS FACILITY 2431 LEXINGTON AVE S • MENDOTA HEIGHTS • 55120 Building: 651-454-4059 Building Hours: M–F: 7am–3:30pm STEPHANIE LEVINE, MAYOR 651-686-0340 | C. 651-302-0861 | slevine@mendotaheightsmn.gov ULTAN DUGGAN 651-452-5179 | uduggan@mendotaheightsmn.gov JOHN R. MAZZITELLO 651-249-7306 | jmazzitello@mendotaheightsmn.gov JAY MILLER 651-994-0482 | jmiller@mendotaheightsmn.gov JOEL PAPER 612-237-1133 | jpaper@mendotaheightsmn.gov Meetings are held at City Hall unless otherwise specified. Visit mendotaheightsmn.gov/calendar to check for meeting dates & times. Meetings are livestreamed online and for replay at townsquare.tv/webstreaming. Occasionally broadcast channels may change; check Town Square Television’s cable listings for details. Regular meetings are typically held as follows; scheduling changes may occur: CITY COUNCIL 1ST & 3RD TUES | 6PM CHANNEL 18/798 HD AIRPORT REL. COMM.* 3RD WED OF ODD-NUMBERED MONTHS | 6PM NATURAL RESOURCES COMM. 2ND WED | 6PM (April start) CHANNEL TO BE ANNOUNCED PARK & REC COMM. 2ND TUES | 6:30PM CHANNEL 15/859 HD PLANNING COMM. 4TH TUES | 7PM CHANNEL 18/798 HD * ARC meetings are not regularly broadcast CITY COUNCIL PUBLIC MEETINGS SAVE THE DATE: Mendota Heights State of the City Address · May 17, 2022 CALL 911 for emergency and non-emergency Police and Fire response. How to use a Quick Response (QR) code 1. Open your smart phone’s camera 2. Hover over the code as if taking a photo 3. Click the link that pops up mendotaheightsmn.gov NATIONAL PRESCRIPTION DRUG TAKE BACK DAY 10am-2pm • Mendota Heights City Hall The Police Department will be collecting unused prescription medications to be disposed of for free. Drive through City Hall’s main entrance turnaround and they will collect your items. Note that sharps or needles will not be accepted. Unused Epi-pens that have expired or are no longer needed will be accepted if they are in their original safety packaging. Drop off is anonymous. If you cannot make it to this event, drop these items off 24/7, any day of the year, in the green drop box in the MHPD lobby. PICKLEBALL WITH PUBLIC SAFETY & RIBBON CUTTING 5:30-7pm · Friendly Hills Park Play recreational pickleball with MH Public Safety personnel as we celebrate the opening of the new courts. All ages are welcome! Free event · no registration required. 7 CITY CALENDAR mendotaheightsmn.gov/calendar KIDS GARAGE SALE 10am-Noon • Veterans Memorial Community Ctr. 8055 Barbara Ave, Inver Grove Heights This is a great opportunity for kids to make decisions on their own, learn money management, and gain confidence. Each participant receives one poster board to promote their items, one table (6’x8’), and one chair. Participants are in charge of handling all sales and must bring cash for change. All leftover items must be taken home. Ages 6–15 · $5 per participant · registration required EVENTS & Programs RECREATION REGISTRATION mendotaheightsmn.gov or register at City Hall Sat APRIL 30 SUMMER RECREATION REGISTRATION Register online or at Mendota Heights City Hall Our most popular programs have returned, along with exciting new ones like adult pickleball lessons. Browse/register for programs online or at City Hall during business hours. An online digital catalog is available to view/print, pick up a printed catalog at City Hall, or call 651-452-1850 to request one via mail. Sat APRIL 30 Thurs APRIL 21 Mon MARCH 14 Events & programs may be subject to change. JUNIOR/ADULT GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP 9am shotgun start • Par 3 Community Golf Course 1695 Dodd Road, Mendota Heights Join us for a recreational two-person scramble tournament just like the pro’s do in Orlando. All participants must have their own golf clubs. $20 per team · registration required Sat APRIL9 Save the date to shop the sale! SPRING BREAK YOUTH FIELD TRIPS ICE SKATING & BOWLING 8am–4:30pm Drop off/Pick up: Doug Woog Arena, SSP Ice skate inside the arena in the morning and bowl the afternoon away at Concord Lanes; rental skates included. Ages 6–12 · $34 per participant · registration required SEAQUEST & SPORTS IN THE DOME 8am–3:30pm Drop off/Pick up: WSP Regional Athletics Ctr. Dome Touch, see, and interact with animals from five different continents, then enjoy afternoon group games and free time. Ages 6–12 · $36 per participant · registration required PAPER SHRED 9am-Noon • WSP Sports Complex 1650 Oakdale Ave, West St. Paul Shred and recycle confidential material at this event for free - no limit. Use paper bags to put materials in rather than boxes, and remove 3-ring binders, spiral binders, and binder clips. Pioneer SecureShred staff collects and secures materials into a locking security container and transports them directly to the mobile shredding vehicle. The material is deposited directly into the shredding chamber without being touched by human hands. The shredded material is then sent to a recycler. Open to residents of MH, Lilydale, SSP, Sunfish Lake, & WSP. Partially funded by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and Dakota County. WHAT TO SHRED: Credit card offers Receipts Check stubs Old bills Banking & loan information Medical records Tax records Investment records Social Security numbers Internal correspondence Sat APRIL 30 Mon MARCH 28 TuesMARCH 29 NOWOPEN TOUR DE REC 6–7pm • Mendakota Park Join us for free youth and family activities: games, sports, crafts, and more. Drop-in program · no registration required. Weather line: 651-259-2671 Thurs APRIL 7 Order early - this sale goes quickly! Subscribe to City Communications & Connect on Social at mendotaheightsmn.gov/communications. SCAN HERE MendotaHeightsMN MHParksandRec MendotaHeightsPD Mendota_Heights MHeightsPD Mendota Heights eNews & Agenda Packets polco.us/mendotaheights X Correction added after print: The Paper Shred event is Sat, April 23, 2022 MENDOTA HEIGHTS HEIGHTS HIGHLIGHTSMH Last fall, the first Mendota Heights Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) officially formed after 20 residents completed a nine-week training program taught by the Police and Fire Departments. CERT is a national program implemented in cities and counties across the country, including in other communities around Minnesota. The program is for civilians interested in volunteering to support public safety when called upon in response to local disasters or events. This may include helping first responders in the aftermath of a natural disaster, such as a flood or tornado, or assisting with a search and rescue. CERT volun- teers support emergency response in Mendota Heights as well as surrounding communities. CERT is also an ongoing program, with the goal that after initial training the members assume leadership of the program aided by Mendota Heights Public Safety. CERT members participate in continuous education for emergency preparedness, and practice their skills and training excercises year-round. Initial curriculum that CERT members are trained in includes identifying and anticipating hazards, reducing fire hazards in the home and workplace, extinguishing small fires, assisting emergency responders, conducting light search and rescue, setting up medical treatment areas, applying basic medical techniques, reducing survivor stress, and team organization. In addition to classrom learning, program participants experience hands-on training and disaster simulation testing. CERT helps to expand the capacity of public safety in an emergency and helps to build strong working relationships between emergency responders and the public. Familiarity with partners, tools, and communication resources can make a big difference in creating an effective team approach . Watch for CERT members at community events where they may be exercising trainings. You may also see these volun- teers in action helping with community emergency plans, neighborhood exercises, preparedness outreach, fire safety education, and supporting workplace safety. Congratulations to the first Mendota Heights CERT program graduates and thank you for serving the community! Rent a Picnic Shelter City of Mendota Heights 1101 Victoria Curve Mendota Heights, MN 55118 Now Hiring Summer Seasonal MARCH • APRIL 2022 • ISSUE 126 Introducing the Mendota Heights COMMUNITY EMERGENGY RESPONSE TEAM DID YOU KNOW? Brine keeps our roads safe when they get slippery with ice! Brine is a salty water mixture that can be applied to roads before a snow or ice event. By putting this down before a storm, the salt helps to prevent the snow and ice from bonding to the pavement and creating slippery road conditions. In addition to helping keep our roads safer for driving, the use of a brine instead of rock salt helps the environment by keeping up to 30% less salt from going into lakes, rivers and streams. WINTER PARKING RESTRICTIONS END After March 31 overnight parking is allowed on public streets. STREET SWEEPING Stay tuned for dates. When sweepers are out, help protect water quality: ⯀ Keep vehicles off of street until both sides are cleaned.⯀ Do not push/rake any debris into streets (City Code).⯀ Keep trash cans behind the curb line. REPORT MAILBOX OR LAWN DAMAGE The City will replace or repair damage by City plows to lawns and also properly installed mailboxes: up to $75 for post and $75 for the mailbox. Call City Hall or complete an online form: mendotaheightsmn.gov, search Report a Mailbox. REPORT A POTHOLE Call Public Works or complete an online form: mendotaheightsmn.gov, search Report a Pothole. Depending on the road, repair requests go through Dakota County Transportation, MnDOT, or the City. REPLACE BATTERIES IN SMOKE AND CO ALARMS As we “Spring Ahead” stay safe and change those batteries! PARK FIELDS Please try to limit use of ball and soccer fields until they have dried out and the ground is firm. PARK COURTESY ⯀ Dogs must be on a leash six feet or less at all times in parks & in public areas (City Code); exception the off-leash Dog Park on Acacia.⯀ You must pick up pet waste (City Code).⯀ Tobacco products including E-cigarettes/vaping are not permitted (City Code). SEASONAL REMINDERS If you’d like a rewarding part-time job this summer, check out our summer seasonal positions! We’re hiring for: ⯀ Golf instructors and assistants⯀ Golf course clubhouse workers⯀ Pickleball instructors and assistants⯀ Tennis instructors and assistants⯀ Parks/Public Works maintenance Learn more/application info: mendotaheightsmn.gov/employment Our park shelters offer a unique outdoor setting for hosting reunions, parties, workplace gatherings, and other special events. When shelters are rented you have exclusive use of them during the rental time specified. PARK LOCATIONS FRIENDLY HILLS 2360 Pueblo Lane KENSINGTON 2627 Concord Way 🅔🅒 MENDAKOTA 2171 Dodd Road 🅔🅒 ROGERS LAKE 1000 Wagon Wheel Trail 🅔 VALLEY PARK 821 Marie Avenue WENTWORTH 739 Wentworth Ave🅔Electrical avail. 🅒Comfort (permanent) restrooms avail. Apply online through Recreation Registration or complete a rental application form at mendotaheightsmn.gov/parksrecreation. Your application request will be reviewed and upon approval and payment a permit will be issued. Contact Parks and Recreation for questions. HOW TO APPLY RENTAL COST Resident $50 Non-resident $75 Resident business/org. $75 Non-resident business/org. $125 Cost is a flat fee (not per-hour). The price above includes a $25 permit application fee. Four tables are included on site; additional tables are available to rent at $15 each. INSIDE 3 A LOOK INSIDE CITY COMMISSIONS 6 FIREFIGHTER RECRUITMENT PROGRAMS & EVENTS75SUSTAINABLE LANDSCAPES © 2022 City of Mendota Heights