Loading...
Issue 42 - Heights Highlights Summer 1997PAGE 1 June,1997 ISSUE 42 Mendota Heights Supports North-South Runway as Only Expansion Option When the State Legislature settled the Dual Track Airport Planning Process by de- ciding to keep the Minneapolis -Saint Paul International Airport in its current location, a 2010 Master Plan for the airport was adopted. This master plan includes the ex- pansion of the MSP Airport through the ad- dition of a new North-South Runway that parallels Cedar Avenue. The legislature also decided that MAC would have to enter a contract with "affected cities" to prohibit a third parallel runway as an expansion option. In December, the City 'Mendota Heights entered a contract with ..,iAC prohibiting a third parallel runway and giving Mendota Heights property owners within the "affected area" third party rights to injunctive relief if MAC seeks a third parallel runway. The Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC) is currently undergoing an Environ- mental Impact review for the construction of the new North-South runway, also known as Runway 17/35. It is anticipated that the pub- lic comment period on this Environmental Air Noise Got You Wound Up? When the noise be- comes unbearable and disrupts your family's life style, the Metropolitan Airports Commis- sion wants to hear from you. The MAC Air Noise Com- plaint Line can be reached at 726-9411. If possible, when you call, please be irepared to provide information on time, Location, direction and aircraft type. Impact Statement will occur in 1997 and MAC hopes to begin construction of the North-South runway in 1998. Runway con- struction will take at least five years. Mendota Heights supports the construc- tion of the North-South runway as the only viable runway expansion option. Runway 17/35 would be able to operate inde- pendently of the parallel runways and MAC's projected use of this proposed run- way would have all the departures to the south in the direction of the Mall of America and Minnesota River Valley. If constructed, it is anticipated that Runway 17/35 will take up to 37% of all departures from MSP Air- port. In 1994, the most current year for depar- ture data, 26% of all departures from MSP used Runway 11L, which brings aircraft over residential neighborhoods of Mendota Heights. Runway I IR, the southern of the parallel runways, also received 26% of all departures. The projected use of Runway 11L after construction of Runway 17/35 would decrease to 8% of all departures, a significant decrease in departure traffic for Mendota Heights. Mendota Heights' position is that this pro- vides a more equitable distribution of the air traffic and aircraft noise among the commu- nities that are neighbors to the MSP Airport. Equitable distribution of airport traffic and noise has long been a goal of Mendota Heights, as we suffer from the Preferential Runway Use system which designates the Mendota Heights Eagan air traffic corridor as the preferred runways. All communities surrounding MSP receive significant eco- nomic benefit from its close proximity. Similarly, all should be expected to bear a reasonable and equitable share of the asso- ciated noise burden, as well. Reconstruction Postponed The reconstruction of Runway IIR, the southern of the parallel runways, has been postponed by the Metropolitan Airports Commission at the urging of Northwest Air- lines. The reconstruction of Runway IIR was to occur this summer but has been de- layed until the summer of 1998, at the earli- est. The reconstruction of Runway I IR would have shifted traffic patterns at MSP Airport to Runway I IL/29R and Runway 4/22. This would have caused changes in operations on these runways which would have both nega- tive and positive impacts in Mendota Heights. Northwest Airlines cited delays in operations, lack of time for pilot training for using shortened runways and lack of time to determine operational impacts as reasons for postponement. Inside "Heights 9fightites" Look inside this issue for information on upcoming activities: Fire Department .Anniversary Celebration .Military Exyo and For Great Summer/FallFun, Check out the Parks .And Recreation Dvartment's Activities On Pages 4 through 7 PAGE 2 HEIGHTS HIGHLITES June,1997 Non -Simultaneous Departure Procedures Approved by FAA On March 13, 1997, the City received no- tice from the Federal Aviation Administra- tion (FAA) that they had issued a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) so that the local FAA Tower at the Minneapolis -St. Paul International Airport (MSP) could im- plement changes to departure procedures that will benefit Mendota Heights. This find- ing by the FAA clears the way for the MSP Tower Control to send aircraft off Runway I IL, during non -simultaneous departure pe- riods, in a manner that will keep the aircraft in the industrial corridor and out of our resi- dential neighborhoods. Specifically, during periods of non -simul- taneous departures, aircraft departing on Runway I IL will be given a heading of 118 degrees, which is consistent with the center- line of the runway. This means that instead of banking to the left after takeoff, aircraft departing during non -simultaneous periods will fly straight off Runway 11L, which will take them out of Mendota Heights in an area south ofthe water tower, approximately near the I -35E and I-494 interchange. Non -simultaneous periods occur at the MSP Airport during slow periods in traffic. In other words, during departure pushes (the airport's rush hours), aircraft are departing on parallel runways I IR and I IL simultane- are not departing simultaneously, the tower controllers will be using the non -simultane- ous procedures with a centerline departure heading off of Runway 11L. The local tower officials at the MSP Tower Control have estimated that their tower controllers will be trained on implementing this new takeoff procedure by June, 1997. This incremental change in traffic patterns from aircraft departing Mendota Heights will provide relief to residential areas of the community, particularly in the evening and night hours, as well as, other non -departure push periods. During non -simultaneous pe- riods, the departing aircraft will be kept in the center of the industrial corridor and out of our residential areas. The Mendota Heights Airport Relations Commission has been pursuing this change in operations since their formation over three years ago. The Metropolitan Airports Commission recommended this change to provide a measure of relief to Mendota Heights following years of advocacy by the City Council about corridor operations in the Mendota Heights -Eagan corridor. The FAA's finding of no significant impact fol- lows their review of all the environmental concerns that might be associated with this change in procedures. ously. During slow periods, when aircraft New Airport Relations Commissioners Appointed In March, the City Council appointed two people to vacant positions on the City's advisory Airport Relations Commission. The appointees are Ms. Mary Des Roches and Mr. George May. Mary is the director of Central Services at Catholic Charities and has an extensive background in public affairs. Mary resides in the Eagle Ridge neighborhood. George is an attorney in private practice in Hastings, MN and was previously the Assistant Dakota County Attorney. George resides in the Bridgeview Shores neighborhood. The Airport Relations Commission welcomed the two new Commissioners aboard in April and May. Elections were held in February for new officers on the Airport Relations Commission. Scott Beaty, of Bridgeview Shores, was elected as Chair and Joe Leuman, of Mendakota Estates, was elected Vice -Chair. Kim Blaeser, staff, was elected as Secretary. Other members of the Commission are Ellsworth Stein, of Furlong, Bernie Gross, of Somerset Park, and Gregg Fitzer of Copperfield. The Airport Relations Commission meets on the second Wednesday evening of each month at 7 p.m. in the Large Conference Room at City Hall. They are a voluntary, advisory commission to City Council that makes recommendations on airport noise and airport issues. They have done an excellent job on keeping the City informed about the myriad of activities associated with being a neighbor of an international airport. In June, the Airport Relations Commission will begin consideration of their Action Plan, which is a strategic plan for addressing Mendota Heights concerns and identifying our goals on airport and airport noise issues. Their meetings are open to the public and they encourage members of the public to participate in their discussion of the Action Plan. Septic System Ordinance Adopted At its April 15 meeting, the City Council adopted a Dakota County ordinance regard- ing Individual Sewage Treatment Systems (septic systems). Most of Mendota Heights currently has sanitary sewer mains available and will be unaffected by the new ordinance. For those homeowners who have on-site sep- tic systems and the few new lots which will develop without city sewer this new ordi- nance makes two main changes. All new systems are now required to be designed, installed and inspected by state licensed personnel or businesses. All exist- ing systems are now required to have a sew- age system compliance inspection com- pleted by a state licensed inspector prior to a sale. Any failing systems that are identified must be upgraded within ten months unless they pose a threat to public health, in which case they must be corrected within thirty days. If you have any questions on this change, please contact a city building official at City Hall, 452-1850. Weed Alert The City Code Enforcement staff is ac- tively enforcing ordinances regulating the removal of noxious weeds or grass more than 12" tall. Violators will be notified and given a reasonable time to correct the problem. If notices are ignored, the city will contract to have the property mowed and will bill the cost to the property owner. Heights Highlites is a government news- letter distributed to residents to inform them on events and activities that affect Mendota Heights. All articles, layout and production are done by city staff members. If you know any residents who are not receiving the Heights Highlites, please ip- vite them to contact City Hall, 452-18` to be placed on the newsletter mailing list. PAGE 3 HEIGHTS HIGHLITES June,1997 Record -Breaking Third Annual Spring Clean Up Day On May 17, the City held its Third Annual Spring Clean Up Day behind Mendota Plaza. Trucks and dumpsters from various local garbage haulers accepted everything from tires to sheet rock to broken bicycles. About 230 car and truck loads of junk were brought by our residents to Mendota Plaza. Also, as an integral part of our Annual Spring Clean Up, JR's Appliances picked up "curbside" many old appliances from our residents on the morning of May 19. This was by far the busiest Spring Clean -Up ever! Thanks to the following people and organizations for making our Third Annual Spring Clean Up a record-breaking success: Paster Enterprises, owner and operator of Mendota Plaza Dakota County Environmental Management Mendota Heights Rubbish Service The Sun Current Scrapbusters The Southwest Review BFI Tire Recyclers NDC4 Cable JR's Appliance Disposal First Impressions The City would also like to thank the following volunteers, all of whom put in several hours helping residents on Saturday. Mayor Charles E. Mertensotto Marc Mogan Stan Linnell Nancy Bauer Daniel Tilsen Kevin Batchelder Guy Kullander Patrick Hollister Tom Knuth A very special thanks goes to Mendota Heights Rubbish Service and Scrapbusters, who --�sponded to the greater -than -anticipated amount ofmaterial by continually supplying us with apty dumpsters until the job was done. Without the support of such community -minded local businesses, events such as these would not be possible. Most of all the City would like to thank our residents, whose enthusiastic response to this event has established the Annual Spring Clean Up as a City tradition! Minnesota Military Expo Military active, Guard and Reserve members and veterans service organizations from the Twin Cities and surrounding areas are sponsoring the first Minnesota Military Expo on Saturday and Sunday, August 9 and 10. The event will be held from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on both days at Historic Fort Snelling, Fort Snelling Polo Grounds, the Army Reserve complex, Federal Building and the Air National Guard/Air Force Reserve base. The first Minnesota Military Expo will showcase: Army Paratroopers parachuting from aircraft Air Force flight trainer simulation Hot air balloons Live bands Coast Guard search and rescue helicopter demonstration Marine flood relief demonstration Navy floats of aircraft carrier and destroyer Air Guard Museum Air Force working dog team? Living history reenactments from\ Revolutionary War to Desert Storm *� Military equipment and aircraft ; displays Fireworks display/5K run ° and much, much more!! 4 From Hay Mow to Hazmat In 1997, the Mendota Heights Volun- teer Fire Department celebrates its 50th anniversary. Many changes have taken place in the first fifty years. In 1947, the community was mostly farmland. A typi- cal fire call was for a fire in a hay mow or barn. Today, firefighters encounter hazardous materials and toxins from plastics and synthetics in a modern com- munity filled with residential and com- mercial development. The fire department will celebrate its golden anniversary with the community on August 16. The Celebrate Mendota Heights Parks! Committee and MHFD 50th Anniversary Committee will coordi- nate and combine their efforts to host one gala community event this summer. Plans for the day include: Softball Tournament Parade Fire Equipment Display Fire Department History Display Family Activities Food Concessions Music & Entertainment Fireworks Local historian Bill Wolston has been working with the fire department to com- pile and publish an informative history book about the first 50 years The book will be available for purchase at the com- munity celebration. Minnesota artist Jim Killen created a beautiful painting to honor our fire de- partment's 50th anniversary. The circa 1947 scene depicts the Mendota Heights volunteer firefighters protecting the his- toric community from a spring grass fire. The view includes the Sibley House, Faribault House, Church of St. Peter and Mendota Bridge. Limited -edition, signed and numbered prints can be pur- chased through the fire department and will be sold at the August 16 celebration. Artist Jim Killen also will be at the event. Mark your calendars for August 16. Bring your family and friends and plan to spend the day sharing and enjoying this special occasion. For further information, contact: Concessions - Ted Husnik, 452-4291 Parade - Marc Connolly, 405-0015 Family Activities - Chris Esser, 452-1850 PAGE 4 HEIGHTS HIGHLITES June, 1997 MENDOTA HEIGHTS PARKS AND RECREATION SUMMER/FALL TRIPS AND ACTIVITIES SAFETY CAMP AUGUST 12,13, 14 Do you know what to do in case of an emergency? Join us and learn in a fun environment. At camp, children will learn safety skills that deal with stranger danger, drug awareness, weather, fire, animals, and first aid. This 3 -day program is designed for children who are pres- ently in 2nd and 3rd grades. The camp will be held at Kaposia Park, located at Wilde and Butler Ave- nues in South St. Paul. On the last day of camp, there will be a family picnic at the park, with hot dogs, ice cream, and beverages for all. The camp is sponsored by the VFW Gallagher Hanson Post 295. This camp is guaranteed to teach safety skills that will last a lifetime. Ages: 2nd and 3rd grade Dates: August 12, 13, 14 Time: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. FEE: $15 per participant (includes T-shirt, lunch everyday, instruction, and picnic). *There is a limited enrollment for each community participat- ing. To enroll, please contact Chris at 452-1850 to be placed on the preliminary camp roster. Placement on the preliminary roster does not guarantee final enrollment. Further details and scheduling will be mailed to registered participants in late July. OFFICE INFORMATION: Open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m.- 4:30 p.m Mendota Heights City Hall, 1101 Victoria Curve Phone: 452-1850 After Hours Update: 220-2156 PARKS AND RECREATION STAFF: Chris Esser, Recreation Programmer Terry Blum, Parks Leadperson John Boland, Parks Crew Mike Maczko, Parks Crew ADULT FALL SOFTBALL LEAGUES Registration materials are now available for ASA sanctioned slow -pitch fall softball. League packets can be obtained at City Hall, 1101 Victoria Curve. Leagues being offered include: Mondays:Men's Open Tuesdays: Women's Open Thursdays:Co-Rec Open All games will be played at Mendakota Park and will be double-headers every week. Registrations are due by August 1, 1997. Interested teams should inquire at City Hall or call Chris at 452-1850. ENJOY OUR CITY PARKS AND TRAILS! With summer upon us, we invite all residents to get out and enjoy the parks and trails we have here in Mendota Heights. Explore the amenities your city has to offer while enjoying the great outdoors! City parks are open from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. In order to allow everyone the most enjoyable experience without conflict- ing with the rights of fellow park users and neighboring residents, we ask everyone's cooperation in abiding by the posted park rules. Park shelters and facilities are available for reservation on a first-come, first-served basis. For information on rental proce- dures and fees, please contact Chris at 452-1850. Rental groups are responsible for the clean up of trash and debris in the area reserved for their activity. City ordinances require all dogs in the city to be leashed. This especially pertains to park property. Pet owners are permitted to have their leashed pets in city parks and on city trails and are required to clean up any droppings left by their animals. Finally, to assist the City in the maintenance and appearance of our parks and trails, we ask for everyone's cooperation ii using the trash and recycling receptacles provided. PAGE 5 HEIGHTS HIGHLITES June,1997 SUMMER ADVENTURE YOUTH TRIPS All youth trips will depart from the West St. Paul (WSP) City Hall, located at 1616 Humboldt Avenue in West St. Paul. Registration deadline is one week prior to the trip. Registration after the deadline date will add a $2.00 late fee to the price of your registration. All trip fees include transportation, supervision, and activity fees. Each trip has limited enrollment, so please register as soon as possible. These trips are co-sponsored with WSP, SSP, and IGH Parks and Recreation. Trips are scheduled for Thursdays. ST. PAUL SAINTS BASEBALL GAME 10 & up THURSDAY, JUNE 26 July 10, 1997 Plan a fun afternoon watching our Saints play baseball out- doors! Bring a bag lunch for tailgating before the game. Baseball the way it was meant to be played! DEADLINE: AGES: 7-12 years old DATE: Thursday, June 26 BUS PICK UP: WSP City Hall 1616 Humboldt WSP DEPARTS: 10:30 a.m. 'r RETURNS: 3:45 p.m. (approx.) DEADLINE: Registration due by June 19 FEE: $10 per person (Bring a bag lunch) BUNKER HILLS WAVE POOL THURSDAY, JULY 10 Get ready to ride a wave as we venture off to the wave pool. Waves are generated up to four feet high. Don't forget your swim suit and towel. We recommend a tube rental for $2 (for a two hour session), however, it is not required. We will be at the wave pool for two sessions. This trip includes a box lunch, which contains a hot dog, chips, cookie and a small pop. Surf's up! AGES: 10 & up DATE: July 10, 1997 BUS PICK UP: WSP City Hall, 1616 Humboldt Ave., WSP DEPARTS: 9:00 a.m. RETURNS: 3:15 p.m. DEADLINE: Registration due by July 3 FEE: $11 per person (Box lunch included, money $9.00 per person (includes lunch) for tube rental) on't forget to sign up now for the super August Adventures!! ELM CREEK PARK RESERVE THURSDAY, JULY 17 We will travel to the outdoor setting of the Elm Creek Park Reserve. We will be playing on the gigantic playground and swimming at the beach. Join us for this nature experience. AGES: 7-12 years old DATE: July 17, 1997 BUS PICK UP: WSP City Hall, 1616 Humboldt Ave., WSP DEPARTS: 9:30 a.m. RETURNS: 3:30 p.m. DEADLINE: Registration due by Thursday, July 10 FEE: $5.50 per person (Bring a bag lunch) MINNESOTA TWINS VS. KANSAS CITY THURSDAY, JULY 24 Join us to watch our Twins in action. Game time is 12:15 p.m. The trip fee includes a hot dog or popcorn and pop. Come along to cheer the Twins on to victory! AGES: 7-12 years old DATE: July 24, 1997 BUS PICK UP: WSP City Hall, 1616 Humboldt Ave., WSP DEPARTS: 9:45 a.m. RETURNS: 4:00 p.m. (approx.) DEADLINE: Registration due by Thursday, July 17 FEE: $9.00 per person (includes lunch) WILD WATERS PARK THURSDAY, JULY 31 Get wet this summer with a trip to Wild Waters in Somerset, Wisconsin! Our trip will include an unlimited pass for the three super slides, 18 holes of mini -golf, lunch, and a visit to Water Wars. AGES: 7-12 years old DATE: Thursday, July 31 BUS PICK UP: WSP City Hall, 1616 Humboldt Ave., WSP DEPARTS: 9:00 a.m. RETURNS: 3:15 p.m. DEADLINE: Registration due by Friday, July 24 FEE: $15 per person (includes lunch) PAGE 6 HEIGHTS HIGHLITES FAMILY PERFORMANCES IN THE PARK The Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Program is sponsoring a series of *FREE* Performances in the Park! Mendakota Park will be the place for fun and entertainment with your family and friends. These special performances are scheduled for children and adults to enjoy together. Check it out! Wednesday, June 18 7:00 p.m. "AlphaBits" Mendakota Park Pavilion AlphaBits is a musical duo that specializes in songs and entertainment to make everyone feel good. Their songs "Ida Know" and "Clap, Clap, Stomp, Stomp" are sure to get you in the mood for fun and enjoyment. Wednesday, July 16 7:00 p.m. "Tune Into Kids" Mendakota Park Pavilion Back by popular demand, Tune Into Kids is a musical duo dedicated to providing the best in fam- ily entertainment. Their songs and merriment are designed to stimulate learning and imagination. Wednesday, August 6 7:00 p.m. "Magician Norm Barnhart" Mendakota Park Pavilion Norm Barnhart's Magic Circus Show promises a de- lightful, high energy and interactive show full of magic, comedy, and fun! *For all performances, we request that all children be accompanied by an adult. Thank you for your cooperation. In case of inclement weather, performances will be re -scheduled, if possible. Call Chris at 452-1850 for more information. Enjoy the shows! Celebrate Mendota Heights Parks! Mark your calendars today to join us on August 16 as we Celebrate Mendota Heights Parks Day! and commemorate the Fire Department's 50th Anniversary. The day will be filled with fun family activities, including: • Parade in the morning • Food concessions • Family entertainment through the day • Fireworks at dusk • Free activities for children • Live music and dancing in the evening This event is made possible by the generiou support of residents and community businesses. Donations are being accepted to help support this community event. If you are interested in making a donation, please contact Chris at 452-1850. June,1997 AUGUST ADVENTURE SUPER YOUTH TRIPS WILD MOUNTAIN THURSDAY, AUGUST 21 We are off to Taylors Falls to get wild at Wild Mountain. Our 5 -hour unlimited ride pass will provide a lot of variety including waterslides, go-carts, and the infamous alpine slides! Excitement awaits! AGES: 7-12 years old DATE: Thursday, August 21 BUS PICK UP: WSP City Hall WSP City Hall, 1616 Humboldt Ave. 1616 Humboldt Ave. West St. Paul DEPARTS: 8:45 a.m. RETURNS: 4:00 p.m. DEADLINE: Registration due by Registration due Friday, August 15 FEE: $16 per person (Bring a bag lunch or money for con- cessions) 0 VALLEYFAIIt THURSDAY, AUGUST 28 We are saving the best for last with our grand finale trip. Join us for the "big- gest day around!" Ride the new Wild Thing and Chaos, if you dare. AGES: 10 years and older DATE: Thursday, August 28 BUS PICK UP: WSP City Hall, 1616 Humboldt Ave. West St. Paul DEPARTS: 9:00 a.m. RETURNS: 6:30 p.m. DEADLINE: Registration due by Friday, August 22 FEE: $22 per person (bring money to purchase concessions) REGISTRATION INFORMATION CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS PARKS AND RECREATION Registration for programs may be made in person or by mail at the Mendota Heights City Hall, 1101 Victoria Curve. All registrations must be accompanied by program fee (checks made payable to the City of Mendota Heights). Deadlines Most activities have limited enrollment and registration deadlines, so please register as soon as possible. Registrations will NOT be taken over the phone. Non-resident Fee Non-residents are welcome to participate in our programs, however, residents will receive priority registration. There is a $5.00 non-resident fee per participant, per activity if you live outside Mendota Heights. Please include the non-resident fee with regular registration costs when enrolling. Refund Policy A $2.00 service fee will be charged for individual cancellations made prior to the start of a program or its registration deadline. This service fee will also apply to registrations taken after the deadline date, if enrollment allows, with the exception of being on a participant waiting list. No refunds will be given after registration deadlines or the start of an activity. Registration fees for programs canceled by the City will be fully refunded. Confirmation There will be no further confirmation after registration. It is your responsibility to be present on the date and time your program begins. You will receive notifi- cation if a program is filled, canceled, or changed. Participants With Disabilities Participants with disabilities who are in need of any special assistance or auxil- iary aids should notify the Parks and Recreation Department at the time of registration to ensure that any need can be met to fully participate and enjoy a program or service.. REGISTRATION FORM - PLEASE PRINT Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Office Use Only: 1101 Victoria Curve DateReceived: Receipt#: Mendota Heights MN 55118 Phone: 452-1850 Check#: Cash:_ By: !AAA A PAA A JA Parent/Guardian Name: Home Phone: Work Phone: Address: City: Zip Code: ❑ Please check for $5.00 Non -Resident Fee Participant Name Gender Birthdate Activity Name Start Time FEE 1. (Circle) M F / / Date /_/_ $ 2. M F 3. M F / / /_/_ $ Liability of Accidents I agree that all activities undertaken by me or my child as part of the program are undertaken by me or my child at my or his/her own risk and that the City of Mendota Heights shall not be liable for any claim, demands, injuries, damages, actions, or causes of action whatsoever to myself or my child or my property or my child's property due to the passive or active negligence of the City of Mendota Heights, it's agents, or employees arising out of or connected with my or my child's participation in or the use of operation of equipment in this program and that I expressly forever release and discharge the City of Mendota Heights, its agents, or employees from all such claims, demands, injuries, damages, actions or causes of action whatsoever. I understand that my signature is required before my or my child's participation in this program is allowed. I have read this Agreement carefully and know and understand its contents. Signature Date PAGE 8 HEIGHTS HIGHLITES Neighborhood Protects Pond Recently the Bridgeview Shores neighbors noticed that the quality of their ponds was deteriorating and in 1996 decided to form a neighborhood group to try and do something about it. First the neighborhood contracted with an environmental consulting company to perform an analysis of the pond to gather baseline information and give the group some recommendations on what actions they might take themselves to improve its quality. Then, because to their knowledge the pond did not even have a name, they asked the City Council to name it "Pagel Pond" in honor of the old farmstead that was on the property. Because the report informed the neighbor- hood that the greatest cause of the pond's deterioration was from the surrounding de- velopment (you the residents), an educa- tional campaign was started. Neighborhood volunteers worked with the city and the county this spring to obtain educational ma- terial that they then distributed to all the residents living within the watershed. This information informed neighbors about the problem, and told them what they should do to improve the water quality. A letter was drafted asking for support and cooperation from all within the watershed to help im- prove the water quality of Pagel Pond by: using "0" phosphorous fertilizer, sweeping up excess fertilizer from sidewalks, drive- ways and streets, picking up any other debris that could be washed into the storm sewers and end up in the pond and, finally, neigh- bors asking others to do the same, especially any new neighbors as they move in. STA to the rescue! St. Thomas Academy has an Environmental Services Class that recently found out about the Bridgeview Shores neighborhood effort and volunteered Help support the Mendota Heights Fire Department as it celebrates 50 years of service to the community by purchasing a commemorative T-shirt for only $13, or two for $25. Call Kim at City Hall, 452-1850, to place your order. to help. This year the class painted warnings on all the storm water catch basins in the neighborhood telling people not to dump waste into them. Next year the class will also be picking up where the neighborhood envi- ronmental consultant left off by analyzing and tracking the pond's water quality on an ongoing basis. Finally, the city will be installing street signs this summer to alert people about their being within the Pagel Pond Watershed and asking for everyone's cooperation in keep- ing pollutants out of the storm drains. We at the city wish these neighbors the best of luck in their efforts to reduce the pollut- ants that go into their pond and success in improving the quality of the water. Trees Still Available You haven't missed your opportunity to purchase a tree through the city's boulevard tree program. For a pre -payment of $50 per tree, homeowners may select from several varieties of trees approximately 1 3/4 to 2 inches in diameter. The trees will be planted in the fall by a landscape contractor hired by the city and will be guaranteed for one year. If you are interested in sprucing up your boulevard area, contact Nancy at City Hall, 452-1850. A limited number of trees are available on a first-come, first-served basis. June, 1997 Summertime Reminders Now that the weather is warmer, many of us are planning summer projects, working on home and yard maintenance or just thinking about spending some enjoyable time out- doors. We offer the following information to help make summer more pleasant for you and your neighbors. The 21 miles of city trails located adjacent to roadways or meandering through the bounty of open space in the community offer an excellent opportunity for exercise and relaxation. When walking or biking along the trails, please remember that the trails were designed for mixed use. When you ride your bike, please be cautious and consider- ate, keeping your speed at a level that is safe for both you and pedestrians. Walkers, please be alert for bicycles that may be rounding a bend or coming over a hill. If you walk your dog on city trails or other public property, carry along a proper recep- tacle for removing your pet's waste. Signs are posted in the city's parks to remind us of this obligation. If you plan to landscape your yard, plea5,A do not place bushes or place landscape r. terial within the boulevard areas. In the win- ter, the boulevard area is used for the storage of snow plowed from city streets. Anything planted or placed within ten feet of the curb this summer or fall could be damaged in coming winters, and since the city owns the boulevard area there is no compensation for damages. Permits are required for many home im- provement projects, including decks, porches, fences and swimming pools. Before beginning a project, stop in at City Hall to pick up informational materials on permit requirements, or contact Paul Berg or Dick Gill, the city's Code Enforcement Officers, at 452-1850. From: Bulk Rate City of Mendota Heights U.S. Postage 1101 Victoria Curve PAID Mendota Heights, Mn. 55118 Permit No. 6166 St. Paul, Mn. 55118 POSTAL PATRON CARRIER ROUTE PRESORT MENDOTA HEIGHTS, MN 55118 ECR WSS