2022-04-08 Friday News4/8/22, 1:11 PM Friday News 4/8/2022
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Friday News 4/8/2022
City of Mendota Heights sent this bulletin at 04/08/2022 01:03 PM CDT
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FRIDAY NEWS | April 8, 2022
Help improve biking and walking systems in
Mendota Heights
The City of Mendota Heights is actively working on a plan for recommendations and
improvements to bicycle and pedestrian facilities. The planning process includes evaluating
where current trails, sidewalks, and on-street facilities are located and where there are gaps
and barriers to bicycle and pedestrian movement throughout the city. Currently, there are
approximately 28 miles of paved trails and sidewalks in Mendota Heights, with an additional
5 miles of wide shoulders or on-street bicycle facilities. In addition, Dakota County owns and
maintains regional trails in the city to provide non-motorized connections within and outside
the community. The final plan will aim to identify strategies to increase access to and
participation in bicycling and walking throughout the community, as well as identifying and
prioritizing physical improvements that will make the system safer and more connected.
A State Health Improvement Partnership (SHIP) grant is being used to fund the project
process. Part of the process includes reaching out to residents and stakeholders to gain
input on how people bike and walk in the city today and their desires for future
improvements. Strategies and initiatives in the plan will focus on improvements that include
education, encouragement, enforcement, evaluation, equity, and engineering. The planning
process is expected to be finished in the fall of 2022
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process is expected to be finished in the fall of 2022.
The city is asking for residents and visitors to provide input online now
through April 28, 2022.
Provide your answers to an online survey, which should take about 10
minutes: surveymonkey.com/r/MHBikePed2022.
Provide your comments on an interactive online map of the city. List specific ideas for
improvements on the map; view others’ comments, and like or dislike
them: hkgi.mysocialpinpoint.com/mendota-heights-bike-ped-plan#.
Future input opportunities to comment on draft recommendations and priorities will be
available in the summer of 2022. Stay up to date on the project’s process and future input
opportunities at mendotaheightsmn.gov.
Supported by the Statewide Health Improvement Partnership, Minnesota Department of
Health and the Dakota County Public Health Department.
Natural Resources Management Plan Update
Draft available for public comment
The City of Mendota Heights is currently updating its Natural Resources Management Plan
(NRMP). The plan will serve as a means to guide the City in shaping policy and decision
making in order to continue to conserve, enhance, and manage its natural resources.
Members of the public are invited to comment on the current draft of the NRMP. Please
submit comments and questions by April 21, 2022, to Krista Spreiter, Natural Resources
Coordinator, at 651-216-9063 or by email at: KSpreiter@mendotaheightsmn.gov.
Natural Resources Management Plan: Draft April 5, 2022
Congratulations Captain Johnson
At the City Council meeting on April 5, Mendota Heights Firefighter Dan Johnson was
officially promoted to the rank of Fire Captain. Captain Johnson's badge was pinned on by
his spouse and fellow firefighter Becky Johnson. Congratulations and thank you for your
continued service!
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Help us name our newest snowplow!
As part of the Touch-a-Truck free community event on May 14 (rain date May 15), Mendota
Heights residents can help us name the newest snowplow that has joined the fleet! Name
submissions will be accepted through 11:59 p.m. on April 24. After the close of name
submissions, Mendota Heights Public Works and City Staff will narrow the choices to five, to
be voted on by attendees at the Touch-a-Truck event.
More Info/Submit Your Entry
THE LATEST
Residents can take action to conserve water in
Mendota Heights
The City of Mendota Heights is participating again in the Wyland National Mayor's
Challenge to see which cities can conserve the most water. During the month of April,
residents can take a pledge to help conserve water and improve the environment by
selecting simple actions to take within their household and community. Mendota Heights will
be competing against other cities of similar population, and is engaged in a friendly
competition against West St. Paul. Residents have an opportunity to win prizes for
themselves and a local charity. Learn more and take the pledge! Follow along by checking
the current city standings.
Take the Action Pledge
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Are you thinking about serving your community as
a firefighter?
Accepting applications through May 18
Join the Mendota Heights Fire Department for a Hiring Informational Meeting to learn more.
Get firsthand knowledge on what it takes to become one, learn about the training you’ll
receive, ask questions, tour the station, and meet members of the team! Meetings take
place Tuesday, April 12, from 6 to 8 p.m. or Saturday, April 30, from 10 a.m. to noon.
Please plan to arrive at the meeting start time for a presentation.
Mendota Heights firefighters are paid-on-call volunteers who respond to both fire and
medical emergencies, serving Mendota Heights, Mendota, Lilydale, and Sunfish Lake. The
department operates out of a newly built and remodeled state-of-the-art fire station. Many
on the team will tell you that joining the “Fire Family” has been one of the most rewarding
experiences of their lives. Our firefighters come from a wide range of backgrounds, most
serving while managing diverse careers.
The City of Mendota Heights is accepting applications to become a firefighter by 4:30
p.m. on May 18. Learn more and link to application materials.
We look forward to connecting with you!
Mendota Heights Fire Station, 2121 Dodd Road, Mendota Heights
Your feedback is needed to help improve high
speed Internet service
The Dakota Broadband Board is currently conducting a survey to assess high speed
Internet needs and access. The survey results will help ensure that all citizens and
businesses in Dakota County have equitable and adequate access to broadband service.
Survey for Residents
Residents are invited to take the survey by May 20, 2022,
at projects.designnine.com/survey/dakota-residential.
Survey for Businesses
Businesses are invited to take the survey by May 20, 2022,
at projects.designnine.com/survey/dakota-business.
Northern Dakota County Beyond the Yellow Ribbon
updates
The newest issue of Yellow Ribbon News is now available. Read the latest and learn how
you can get involved in supporting this organization that helps active-duty service members
and their families, as well as Veterans.
You're invited
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You re invited
Learn more about the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport and how the Metropolitan
Airports Commission is planning for its future. The public can view pre-recorded
informational videos and attend a virtual open house from 4:30 to 6 p.m. on April 12. View
videos, learn more, and join the open house at mspairport.com/experience-msp.
Experience MSP Event Flier
Apply now for these positions:
Summer Seasonal Public Works
The City is accepting applications for seasonal Public Works Maintenance. Positions are
open until filled. Learn more and link to application materials.
Summer Seasonal Recreation
The City is accepting applications for these fun part-time positions:
Pickleball Instructors | Pickleball Assistants
Tennis Instructors | Tennis Assistants
Golf Instructors | Golf Assistants
Clubhouse Workers
You must be 18 years of age or older to be an instructor, and 16 years of age or older to be
an assistant or clubhouse worker. Click on links above for more information and application
materials, or visit job postings at mendotaheightsmn.gov/employment.
BUSINESS NEWS
Participate in the Employers of Excellence program
The Dakota-Scott Workforce Development Board (WDB) invites area businesses and
nonprofit organizations to participate in the 2022 "Employers of Excellence" program. All
employers in Dakota and Scott counties are encouraged to participate. Contact WDB
Director Mark Jacobs at 651-554-5622 for more information or go
to personneldynamics.net/survey.asp to start the survey. The deadline for survey completion
is now extended to April 15, 2022. Winners will be announced on May 25.
Learn more and get answers to questions about the WDB Employers of Excellence
program.
RECYCLING
SSP compost site is open
The South St. Paul Compost Site is open effective today, April 8. Visit their website for
information on hours of operation, type of yard waste accepted, and costs. Note that
hours/days of operation may change based on weather conditions.
Upcoming events
Dakota County Fix-It Clinics
April 16, Noon–3pm Inver Glen Library, 8098 Blaine Ave., Inver Grove Heights
Recycling Association of Minnesota (RAM) Compost Bin & Rain Barrel
Sale
While supplies last | Residents get 30 percent off when they order online using the promo
code Dakota. Rain barrels and compost bins are sold-out for pickup at Mendota Heights,
but can be ordered to be picked up from another location as available.
Spring Paper Shred Event
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April 23, 9am-Noon WSP Sports Complex, 1650 Oakdale Ave, WSP (Please note this date was incorrectly shown as April 30 in the City's March/April Heights
Highlights printed newsletter - the correct date is April 23.)
School District 197 LiveGreen Clothing Swap
April 23, 10am-2pm Two Rivers High School, 1897 Delaware Ave, MH
Curbside Appliance Pickup
Reservation required April 1 - April 29 for May 2 pickup date
Dakota County Outdoor Gear Swap
April 30, Noon–3pm Dakota Lodge in Thompson Park, 1200 Stassen Lane, WSP
Dakota County/Community Earth/Arbor Day Events
Celebrate with a wide variety of events to choose from. And don't miss the Mendota Heights
Earth/Arbor Day Celebration & Spring Park Cleaning.
Athletic Gear Donation
May 16-31 Mendota Heights City Hall & other locations
Quick Links:
Join 17% of Mendota Heights households that are participating in the Dakota County
organics drop-off program; learn more and sign up today!
NATURAL RESOURCES
Spring trash clean-up
As our temperatures start to rise and the snow melts, what is left behind is often a plethora
of trash around businesses, parking lots, streets, and waterways. Litter is perhaps most
visible at this time of year, but it is also a problem throughout the year. Trash and debris,
especially plastic, is washed away with rain events and snow melt, polluting our lakes,
rivers, and other surface waters. All of this trash and plastic pays a heavy toll on wildlife as
well, as aquatic life and birds often ingest it or become entangled with it.
What can you do?
Do not litter. Littering is prohibited by City Code, and is considered a misdemeanor
and subject to a fine. Dispose of trash, recyclables, and organics in the proper
receptacles. For disposable options and more information:
co.dakota.mn.us/Environment/Residential.
Encourage and teach children the importance of not littering.
If you see trash, pick it up, as long as you feel safe doing so.
If you notice dumpsters or trash receptacles overflowing, notify the business or
property owner.
Organize or join a local clean-up effort. Below are some local clean up events and
opportunities.
Adopt-a-River through the Freshwater Society.
Join a clean-up event through the Great Mississippi River Cleanup.
Adopt-A-Drain by signing up on-line, and commit just 15 minutes every two
weeks to keep your neighborhood clean and protect our surface waters.
Join your neighbors for a city park clean-up on April 23, as part of the Mendota
Heights Earth and Arbor Day Celebration. Pick up free clean-up supplies at
City Hall from 9 a.m. to noon.
Take part in additional events throughout Dakota County.
Winter fish kill
As ice retreats on our lakes and other waterbodies, sometimes several dead fish are left
behind commonly referred to as winter fish kill Snow and ice cover can limit the amount of
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behind, commonly referred to as winter fish kill. Snow and ice cover can limit the amount of
oxygen available in water bodies, as aquatic vegetation produces less oxygen, and even
uses dissolved oxygen in the water if the vegetation dies over the winter. Oxygen depletion
can lead to fish kills, which can be worse in winters with early snowfall or ice cover, and low
water levels. Due to the drought experienced last summer, many of our water bodies
experienced low water levels at the start of the winter.
Other causes of fish kills can include pollution sources, such as high temperatures of
discharge water, chemical spills or dumping, pesticides and fertilizers, and nutrient-rich
stormwater runoff from leaves, grass clippings, and other yard waste. To report a fish kill, or
for more information, visit the MN Department of Natural Resources.
LMRWD is seeking volunteers to serve on its
Citizen Advisory Committee
By joining the Lower Minnesota River Watershed District (LMRWD) Citizen Advisory
Committee (CAC), you will be working with other energized volunteers to effect change in
your community. The CAC is working to engage residents through education on actions that
protect, improve, and restore water resources in the watershed. Use its interactive map to
determine if you live within the LMRWD, and learn more and access application materials at
lowermnriverwd.org/about/citizen-advisory-committee.
The LMRWD is a local, special-purpose governmental unit that works to solve and prevent
water-related issues. The LMRWD spans five counties and 14 communities within its 80-
square-mile boundary.
Spring is a great time for residents to pitch in and
clean up a shoreline!
ANYONE can mobilize a group and plan a cleanup event! Participating in Freshwater's
Adopt a River program will support you with the planning tools you need.
When and where should you plan a cleanup? Who should you invite, and how can you get
started? Freshwater has all the answers for you at freshwater.org/adopt-a-river.
What if I want to clean up, but not a shoreline? That's great, too! Our streets are an
extension of our shorelines. Most storm drains flow directly into lakes and rivers. That
means everything we do on land affects our water. Check out Freshwater's community
cleanup page for info on other cleanups.
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Stop by City Hall for free giveaways and learn
simple ways you can protect our surface waters
Sat, April 23 | 9am-Noon
Enter the drawing to WIN a free 10-gallon container tree or a gift certificate to Prairie
Moon Nursery.
Pick up your free pollinator seed packet, and plant a pocket prairie for pollinators!
Join us in spring cleaning our parks
Sat, April 23 | Supply pickup 9am-Noon
Spend the day at a local Mendota Heights park assisting with waste removal. Garbage,
recycling, and organics bags will be available for pick up at City Hall from 9 a.m. to
Noon on Saturday, April 23. Collected materials can be left in or near garbage receptacles
at each City park. Volunteers should wear appropriate attire, including protective gloves,
closed-toe shoes, and dress for the weather. Safety vests are also available for loan if
desired.
Attend the virtual ‘Resilient Yards’ workshop
Thurs, April 28 | Noon-2pm
Home gardeners, take climate action in your yard! The City of Mendota Heights is
sponsoring a Blue Thumb workshop offering ways you can make your landscape more
resilient to excessive heat, drought, flooding rains and other weather-related challenges that
we are experiencing more frequently.
This workshop is great for do-it-yourselfers. It offers an overview of resiliency and
information on redirecting runoff, assessing your site, designing with native plants, using
trees and shrubs, turf alternatives, protecting pollinators and more. There are two parts to
this workshop. After registering, you’ll receive an online presentation with a series of videos
to watch at your convenience. The presentation will include prompts to help you get started
on plans to incorporate some of these tactics in your yard. At the workshop, offered virtually,
you’ll meet in small breakout groups for assistance from landscape designers and other
experts such as Master Gardeners. Bring your ideas and your questions!
The virtual workshop will be held from Noon to 2 p.m. on April 28. The cost is $15. For
more information and to register, check the Blue Thumb website at bluethumb.org/events/,
or call Metro Blooms at 651-699-2426.
Blue Thumb is coordinated by Metro Blooms, a nonprofit that partners with communities to
create resilient landscapes and foster clean watersheds, embracing the values of equity and
inclusion to solve environmental challenges.
Landscaping for Clean Water Classes
Create an addition to your home landscaping that is not
only attractive, but will benefit our lakes, streams and
wetlands! Landscaping for Clean Water classes will help
you beautify your landscape and provide cleaner water.
Three LIVE virtual Landscaping for Clean Water
introduction classes are being hosted in partnership with
the watershed organizations here in Dakota County. The
classes provide an overview of local water quality challenges and provide beautiful and
practical ways of reducing runoff pollutants that are causing issues. The Landscaping for
Clean Water program makes it easy to realize the positive impacts raingardens, native
gardens, and shoreline stabilizations can have on your aesthetic and environmental
surroundings.
Want to participate, but can’t make the live event? The introduction class will also be offered
as a pre-recorded option, so you won’t miss a beat in learning how you can plant for clean
water this year. After attending an introductory class, sign up for the $25 raingarden design
workshop where you will receive design assistance to create a functioning raingarden
specific to your own yard.
Participation in the introductory classes is free, but registration is required.
Visit dakotaswcd.org/services/landscaping-for-clean-water or call 651-480-7777 for more
details.
Recent highlights
Learn how to identify and prevent the spread of the aquatic invasive plant Curly Leaf
Pondweed.
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Take these steps to improve water quality as temperatures rise.
I'm planning a project near a surface water. Do I need a permit?
POLICE DEPARTMENT NEWS
Just the Facts
Incident reports 4/01/2022 - 04/07/2022 Previous Just the Facts publications are available in the
Laserfiche archive system on the City's website.
Sign up for emergency alerts
The Emergency Alert Program is available through the Dakota Communications Center
(DCC) at dakota911mn.gov.
Stay in touch through Nextdoor
The MHPD has expanded their social media channels to include Nextdoor. Learn more and
sign up at nextdoor.com.
For immediate public safety response and non-
emergency police assistance call 9-1-1
The Police Department will also continue to process requests for police reports, gun
permits, etc. Link to the forms under Public Resources at mendotaheightsmn.gov/police.
Completed forms and general questions can be submitted via email to
pdrecords@mendotaheightsmn.gov.
PARKS & RECREATION
Upcoming events
Pickleball with Public Safety & Ribbon Cutting
Date: Thurs, April 21
Time: 5:30-7pm
Location: Friendly Hills Park, 2360 Pueblo Lane
Play recreational pickleball with Mendota Heights Public Safety personnel as we celebrate
the opening of the new courts. All ages are welcome at this free community event. No
registration required.
Get started planning your summer of fun!
Registration is open for summer recreation programs and programs are filling quickly. There
are tons of activities for all ages to enjoy! Visit the Summer Fun webpage for details.
Tee it up this weekend!
The Par 3 Community Golf Course is open for the 2022 golfing season, weather
permitting. Players can enjoy the same affordable rates as last year, with special rates for
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pe tt g aye s ca e joy t e sa e a o dab e ates as ast yea , t spec a ates o
senior and junior players. The course is currently walking only; pull carts are available to
rent.
Players can also take advantage of specials available at the course (restrictions apply):
Senior Golf Pass (65+): $200
10-Round Punch Card: $100
Five-Hole Weekday Play Special: $5
Note that the Senior Golf Pass must be purchased at Mendota Heights City Hall during
business hours; it is not available to purchase at the course.
Visit mendotaheightsmn.gov/par3_community_golf_course for rates and information, and
call 651-454-9822 to reserve a tee time. We look forward to welcoming you back!
COVID-19 RESOURCES
For information on COVID-19 and to connect to resources for vaccinations, boosters,
testing, and more, visit mendotaheightsmn.gov/covid19.
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Public Meetings
Meeting changes or cancellations are noted on the City's website
mendotaheightsmn.gov/calendar. Meetings take place at City Hall unless otherwise
noted. Meeting attendees should adhere to the posted City Hall safety guidelines.
Watch regular meetings online at townsquare.tv/webstreaming (available live or for replay)
or on cable television:
City Council: Channel 18/798 HD Planning Commission: Channel 18/798 HD Parks and Recreation Commission: Channel 15/859 HD Airport Relations Commission (select meetings are broadcast): Channel 15/859 HD
Occasionally broadcasted channels may change; check Town Square Television's listings
for updates.
Upcoming Schedule
Parks & Recreation Commission | April 12, 6:30 p.m.
City Council Work Session | April 19, 4:00 p.m.
City Council Meeting | April 19, 6:00 p.m.
Planning Commission | April 26, 7:00 p.m.
City Business Hours
City Hall: Monday - Thursday, 7 a.m.-4:30 p.m. | Friday 7-11:30 a.m.
Police Department: Monday - Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Public Works Building: Monday - Friday, 7 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
City Hall Contact Information
Official Website of the City of Mendota Heights, Minnesota 1101 Victoria Curve Mendota Heights, MN 55118 Phone: 651-452-1850
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