2013-10-04 Friday News
October 4, 2013
Dates to Remember:
October 8, 2013
Ivy Hills Park Open House 5:45 p.m.
Parks Commission 6:30 p.m.
October 9, 2013
Airport Commission 7:00 p.m.
October 12, 2013
Fire Department Open House
10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Attachments:
Pipeline, Just the Facts,
SPRWS Press Release
City Council agenda packets and Planning
Commission agenda packets are available
online by visiting www.mendota-heights.com
and clicking on the agenda/minutes link.
Friday News
Mendota Heights Weekly Report on City Activities
Ivy Hills Park Open House
The Parks and Recrea-
tion Commission is
seeking citizen input on
the future of Ivy Hills
tennis courts. Should the
tennis courts be
resurfaced or replaced with a volleyball court or
pickleball court?
You’re invited to share your ideas with the
Parks and Recreation Commission on
Tuesday, October 8th beginning at
5:45 p.m. The Open House will be held at
Mendota Heights City Hall.
Fire Prevention Open House
The Mendota
Heights Fire
Department will be
holding their annual
Fire Prevention
Open House next
Saturday, October
12, 2013 from
10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
There will be a brief ceremony to honor fallen
firefighters at 10:00 a.m. Feel free to stop by
the fire hall, located at 2121 Dodd Road,
anytime to tour the station, take a ride on a fire
truck, play games and enjoy a free hot dog and
pop.
Mendota Heights City Hall
1101 Victoria Curve
www.mendota-heights.com
(651) 452-1850
Facebook.com/MendotaHeightsMN
Twitter.com/@mendota_heights
Public Works
The Parks Crew painted new siding at the warming houses at Marie and
Friendly Hills Parks. Repairs were made to the paint sprayer. Boards were
removed from the hockey rinks that were in need of replacement.
The Utilities Crew applied root killing chemicals to the sanitary sewer lines
on Marie Avenue and Dodd Road easements. The portable generator was
exercised. The herbicide sprayer was winterized.
The Streets Crew attended the St. Cloud Maintenance Expo.
Engineering
City Projects (construction year)
Dodd Road/Highway 110 Intersection Pedestrian Improvements (2013) –
The project is substantially complete. The crosswalks will be striped on
Saturday, and a punch-list walk through inspection will take place next
week. Some signal lighting and timing issues remain as well.
Hunter Lane/Orchard Place Neighborhood Improvements (2013) – The
project is substantially complete. Council held an assessment hearing on
October 1st and adopted the assessment roll. Assessments can be paid
partially, or in full at City Hall through November 1st, afterward assessments
will be certified to Dakota County and placed on assessed properties’ taxes.
Asphalt wear course will be placed on Culligan, Glenhill, and Orchard Circle
next week, along with the pavement of Veronica. Wear course will be place
on Hunter Lane and Orchard Place in the spring.
Crown Point & Overlook Neighborhood Rehabilitations (2013) – This project
is substantially complete. The contractor will be repairing the punch list
items during the remaining construction season. An assessment hearing is
scheduled for the October 15th City Council meeting.
Sanitary Sewer Cleaning and Televising (2013) – This project is underway.
The contractor is working in the area of the city west of I-35E and north of
Highway 110. Center Pointe Business Park is also included in the project.
Minor traffic impacts should be anticipated.
The Pipeline N E W S
L E T T E R
Public Works
Engineering
Code Enforcement
October 3, 2013
Mendota Heights Road Sanitary Sewer Force Main Replacement (2013) –
The project is out for bid. Bid opening is scheduled for October 9th at
10:00am. The force main has broken 5 times in the past 6 years and is in
need of replacement. Construction could begin as early as this fall.
Highway 13 Trail Connection (2013) – A preconstruction meeting was held
on Tuesday. Notice to proceed with construction is anticipated as soon as
the remaining easements have been secured for construction, and the
project should be completed within three-four weeks from the start date.
Construction is expected to begin in mid-October.
County Projects (Construction Year)
North Urban Regional Trail (NURT) Realignment/Greenway Corridor –
County staff is progressing on the design of the trail realignment through
the Henry Sibley property. The County Project Manager will be giving an
update to the Parks and Recreation Commission on October 8th and to the
City Council on October 15th. The City of West Saint Paul is planning on
reconstructing Marie Avenue from Delaware to Charlton in conjunction with
the NURT realignment construction in 2014.
Other Activities
Traffic Safety Committee – The Traffic Safety Committee met Tuesday
afternoon and had two items on their agenda. First, a discussion regarding
parking on the east side of Warrior Drive by Henry Sibley High School
students. Second a review of resident concerns about speed on Decorah
Lane. The Committee will present their recommendations to the City
Council at their October 15th meeting.
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The latest from the Mendota Heights Police Department
SUPPORT STAFF
Kim Henning
Trista Miller
Becky Pentel
POLICE OFFICERS
Jerry Murphy
Scott Patrick
John Larrive
Bobby Lambert
Tanner Spicer
Todd Rosse
Chad Willson
Jeff Vonfeldt
Steven Meyer
Denise Urmann
Michael Shepard
Peyton Fleming
SCHOOL RESOURCE OFC.
Jennifer Fordham
INVESTIGATIONS
Mario Reyes
Chad Willson
SERGEANTS
Neil Garlock
Brian Convery
Eric Petersen
RESERVES
Randy Pentel
Jim Knox
Jeff Parker
George Castillo
CHAPLAINS
Frances Cuenca
Joel Detlefsen
Lynn Liberman
Butch Millett
Sue Plucker
John Snider
David Wick
CHIEF
Mike Aschenbrener
OCTOBER 4, 2013
Submitted By: Police Ofϐicer Denise Urmann
Domestic Violence Awareness Month evolved from the first Day of Unity observed in October,
1981 by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. The intent was to connect battered
women’s advocates across the nation who were working to end violence against women and their
children.
In October 1987, the first Domestic Violence Awareness Month was observed and first national
toll-free hotline was begun. In 1989 the first Domestic Violence Awareness Month Commemora-
tive Legislation was passed by the U.S. Congress. Such legislation has passed every year since
with NCADV providing key leadership in this effort.
The Purple Ribbon Campaign: Across the country, families and friends of domestic violence victims have
adopted the purple ribbon to honor loved ones who have lost their lives at the hands of someone they loved
and trusted. The display of purple ribbons conveys a powerful message that there is no place for domestic
violence in the homes, neighborhoods, schools, or workplaces in our community.
Talk to your Family: Open communication about domestic violence, including appropriate behavior and
boundaries, especially when dating, and what to do if you experience any type of behavior outside of these
boundaries is important.
Speak Up: If you have reason to suspect someone you know is a victim of domestic violence--do not
ignore it! Should you witness abuse, whether it is someone you know or a complete stranger, call 911
immediately. If you SEE something SAY something!
Brought to you by the Minnesota Crime Prevention Association
October 1st marked the 10th Anniversary of National Cyber Security Awareness Month
This year, the Department of Homeland Security is offering a 10 year outlook on the antici-
pated cybersecurity challenges , hosting topics on cyber security issue:
Cyberspace is woven into the fabric of our daily lives; our world is more interconnected
today than ever before. We enjoy the beneϐits and convenience that cyberspace provides as
we shop and bank online, using our smart phones, and network and interact with friends
from around the world through social networks. With those conveniences also comes the
need for awareness and caution. With that in mind, DHS offers these weekly topics:
Week 1 (Oct 1‐4): Cyber Security is our Shared Responsibility
Week 2 (Oct 7‐11): Being Mobile: Online Safety & Security
Week 3 (Oct 15‐18): Cyber Workforce and the Next Generation of Cyber Leaders
Week 4 (Oct 21‐25): Cyber Crime
Week 5 (Oct 28‐31): Critical Infrastructure & Cybersecurity:
For more detailed information, resources, tips and how to get involved, please visit:
http://www.dhs.gov/national-cyber-security-awareness-month
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DAR Wednesday 2242 Hours
While on routine patrol, Sergeant Eric Petersen observed a vehicle weaving over the fog line. After running
the plates, he discovered that not only was the sole driver’s license revoked, but he also last renewed tabs in
2011; however, the vehicle displayed 2013 tabs. He also had a long list of several “fail to appears. “ The driv-
er was booked at DC jail for a revocation and fines.
Theft Wednesday 1700 Hours
Several tools were stolen from a locked storage unit at a local construction site. The thief managed to cut a
link out of the heavy duty chain link lock that was securing the tools in the POD. The tools were valued at
over $7,000. Officer Scott Patrick advised the team of other suggestions to keep the construction site secure
from future thefts. Later in the week, another construction site had tools stolen as well. Cases referred to
Investigations.
Slow Pursuit Thursday 0203 Hours
Officer Steve Meyer watched a vehicle traveling very fast in a 40 mph zone and soon initiated a traffic stop.
The driver took awhile to pull over, and when approached, Officer Meyer soon realized there was a language
barrier with the driver/sole occupant. The driver offered up his safety glasses and work ID card first, and
eventually he finally understood he needed to give him his DL and proof of insurance. Officer Meyer told
the man to stay in his seat while he returned to his squad to run the DL; as he did so, the driver put his car
in drive and headed onto the highway. Officer Meyer followed, with lights, spotlights and a bit later, sirens,
but the man wouldn’t stop. He was driving carefully, following all the laws (obviously—there was a police of-
ficer right behind him!) but even when four other squads showed up to assist, with their lights and sirens go-
ing, he kept driving, safely and legally. Officers finally utilized a pursuit tactic to stop the vehicle. While
communication was tough, they did ascertain it wasn’t criminal intent that caused the pursuit, rather a lack
of knowledge about driving laws and expectations of law enforcement. Another driver evaluation was re-
quested; citation issued for speed and failing to yield to emergency vehicle.
Theft from Auto Several
There has been several calls of theft from autos in the recent weeks. The bandits retrieved some items of
value and others just ransacked the vehicles. In many of these cases, the cars were left unlocked. It is highly
recommended that you remove all valuables from your vehicles and lock your vehicles to reduce the risk of
theft. It is unfortunate that theft from auto is becoming a new trend, but we all need to do our part in not
letting these bandits get what they want and let them know that they are not wanted in our community.
Cyber Fraud Friday 1442 Hours
Officer Todd Rosse responded to a call on a fraud report. The victim received an email from a
company offering internet service support for their newly purchased product. The victim purchased this ser-
vice for $149.99 plus tax, paying with their bank card. The victim heard nothing from this company for sev-
eral months and no change in service was ever completed. They then received a phone call from this alleged
company stating they were owed a refund due to the service not being provided but needed a different credit
card to refund the money to. After providing this info, the victim found yet another charge of $149.99. The
victim attempted to call back the phone number but the line was disconnected. They cancelled their bank
cards just in time—their bank informed them someone tried to push an international charge of $875. BE
AWARE of all correspondence you receive from any source of technology to avoid becoming a victim.
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Driver Evaluation #2 Friday 2110 Hours
While on routine patrol, Officer Michael Shepard observed a vehicle without headlights or taillights on. He
activated his emergency lights and attempted to stop the vehicle. It continued to drive so Shepard put the
spotlight on them to get their attention further. Still, they continued driving. He then activated the audible
siren in his third attempt to stop the vehicle. The vehicle eventually came to a stop. He approached the ve-
hicle to find three occupants. The driver had on a large smile, saying “yes” repeatedly to all questions. Realiz-
ing there was a language barrier, he asked the other occupants if they spoke English; one did and helped in-
terpret. The driver stated it was difficult to see in the dark; Shepard informed her it was probably because the
headlights weren't on. Shepard instructed the driver on the operation of the headlights; after learning this,
the driver promptly turned them off again. The driver did have a valid MN license and no history of viola-
tions. Officer Shepard prepared a request for examination of the driver as driving skills seemed not up to
par. Driver cited.
Drunk Sunday 0124 Hours
Officer Michael Shepard observed a vehicle passing him at a very high rate of speed, 100mph at that. He
approached the vehicle to find a juvenile who was heavily intoxicated but stated he was “drunk, not wasted.”
After searching the juvenile and vehicle, he found a jar of marijuana, a 1/2 full bottle of Crown, a bag of
wine removed from the box, and a double edged knife . The vehicle was towed and the juvenile was driven
home with his citations to deal with parental consequences.
Tax Evasion Sunday 0657 Hours
Officers Tanner Spicer and Jeff VonFeldt discovered a vehicle with expired 2013 tabs but displaying 2014
tabs. Spicer stopped the vehicle and detected an odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle. The driver
stated his cousin must have put the tabs on when he used the vehicle and also that his license was revoked.
The tabs appeared to be handmade or counterfeit. Upon searching the vehicle, Spicer found a marijuana
pipe, baggies with a white residue and pills. The vehicle was towed, and the driver was arrested for Intent to
Escape Motor Vehicle Tax and Felony 5th Degree Controlled Substance charges. The driver was also cited
for DAR and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Burglary Wednesday 1235 Hours
Officer Peyton Fleming responded to a call of a burglary. He met with the homeowners who stated when
they arrived home they noticed things looked out of order with a couple of drawers opened. They soon no-
ticed the 46” television was missing out of the living room, along with two laptops. They also found the slid-
ing glass door to the backyard was open and a screen that had been cut on a window was left open. Serial
numbers were obtained for the valuables that were stolen and the case is under investigation.
4
Investigators
Mario Reyes and
Chad Willson
received an email
of appreciation
from AV
Specialist and
Film Studies
Instructor Dann
Hurlbert with
ISD197 thanking
them for sharing
their expertise in
creating the video
“Managing Your
Digital
Footprint.”
Stay posted to
next week’s JTF
for more
information on
the video!
Please send us your
positive feedback
on our staff to:
pdrecords@
mendota-heights.com
Your feedback is greatly
appreciated and helps boost
the morale of our staff.
Have a Safe Week!
09/27‐10/04 2013 YTD
Calls for Service 151 6,524
Citations 23 1,194
Warnings 22 1,024
Police Reports 22 806
Response Time Average 5.72 5.14
Check out the MH Crime Map! Click below to search your neighborhood:
http://mendota.prophoenix.com/CS/CrimeMapping.aspx
If you are a Mendota Heights resident and you are going out of town or on
vacation, you can notify MHPD of your outing and we will be more than happy to
keep a watchful eye on your home while you are away. The House Check
Request online form is available on our website; we have similar forms in the
MHPD lobby and we will take your info over the phone.
MHPD offers monthly Car Seat Safety Checks. To schedule an appointment,
call 651.452.1366 to contact Ofϐicer Jennifer Fordham.
MHPD has a Medication Disposal Box in the lobby of the PD where Dakota
County residents can safely and anonymously dispose of their prescription drugs
and over-the-counter medication.
Saint Paul Regional Water Services
1900 Rice Street, St. Paul, MN 55113-6810
Tel. 651-266-6350 Fax 651-266-1657 TTY 651-266-6299
NEWS RELEASE
Media Contact:
Jodi Wallin, Public Information
651-266-6308
SPRWS Announces McCarrons Water Treatment Plant Tours
and Highland Water Tower Open House
Maplewood, Minn. September 30, 2013: Saint Paul Regional Water Services will host an open house from
2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 10, featuring tours of its treatment plant in Maplewood.
That weekend, Oct. 12 – 13, the Highland Water Tower will open its doors from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for the annual
autumn open house. The tower’s observation deck provides visitors with a spectacular view of the area, particularly
looking down on the changing colors of the trees dotting the Highland Park golf course below and out toward the
Mississippi River.
Admission is free to both events and open to the public.
McCarrons Open House and Treatment Plant Tour – October 10
The one-hour tour will give visitors a close-up view of how the water is treated, filtered, and pumped into the
distribution system. The walking tour will cover about one-half of a mile and require the ability to navigate stairs.
Sturdy walking shoes are recommended. An adult must accompany all youths younger than the eighth grade level
on the tour. There is no public access to the treatment plant, and to participate in the tours, visitors must first
register in the administration building. The last tour is scheduled to begin at 5:00 p.m.
“The tours have been very popular throughout the years—most people are fascinated by what they see here,”
said Jim Graupmann, manager, production division. “Few people have any idea of how their water is treated and
actually gets to their home. This is an opportunity for people to see a process that is normally taken for granted.”
McCarrons Center is located at 1900 Rice Street, just north of Larpenteur Avenue. Prominent signs for SPRWS
and the open house will be located along Rice Street near the entrance. The public can also enter on Sylvan Street
from Larpenteur Avenue. Free parking will be available in the parking lot next to the administration building.
Highland Tower Open House - October 12 – 13
In addition to the view from the observation deck, several original Highland Tower blueprints, many of which
bear tower architect Clarence Wigington’s signature, can be seen. The open house is designed to inform residents
about municipal water and the efforts of the utility to preserve and protect water resources. Information about the
utility’s water treatment process and distribution system will be available. Utility employees will be on hand to
answer questions and provide information about utility services.
The water tower is located in the Highland neighborhood located at the intersection of Snelling Avenue and
Ford Parkway.
For further information, please call the SPRWS Customer Service office at 651-266-6350.
###
1900 Rice St
Saint Paul MN 55113-6810