Spring 2016 – City of Austin, Mower County, Vision 2020, and Austin Public Schools Joint Publication

2016

City of Austin Mower County Vision 2020 Austin Public Schools

CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS

It’s construction season once again!

The following streets will be closed to through-traffic for construction this summer.

n South Main Street (from 1st Avenue SW to 3rd Avenue SW) n 3rd Avenue SW (from South Main Street to 4th Street SW) This project will include the replacement of the concrete pavement on South Main Street. 3rd Avenue SW will be widened and new asphalt and curb and gutter will be constructed. The project will also include upgrades to sanitary sewer, storm sewer and water mains. Work on 3rd Avenue SW will begin in mid-June, and work on South Main Street will begin after the 4th of July. The project is expected to be completed in the fall.

n 3rd Street NW (from 4th Avenue NW to 8th Place NW) n 6th Place NW (from 4th Street NW to 1St Drive NW) n 7th Place NW (from 4th Street NW to 2nd Street NW) This is an asphalt street reconstruction project. 6th Place and 7th Place will be widened and new curb and gutter will be installed along with new asphalt pavement. This project also includes installation of storm sewer, and upgrades to the sanitary sewer and water mains. Construction will begin in May and wrap up in late summer.

n n n n

9th Street NE (from 10th Avenue NE to 12th Avenue NE) 11th Avenue NE (from 8th Street NE to 10th Street NE) 13th Avenue NE (from 8th Street NE to 11th Street NE) 14th Avenue NE (from 8th Street NE to dead end) This project is the second phase of street reconstruction in this neighborhood. Construction will include the addition of curb and gutter, widening of roads, and new asphalt pavement. Sanitary sewer and water mains will also be upgraded during construction. Work is expected to begin in July and continue through the end of fall.

n 4th Drive SW (from Calvary Cemetery to County Road 28) This is a joint project between the City of Austin and Mower County.

The asphalt roadway will be widened and curb and gutter will be installed.

The existing ditches will be filled and new storm sewer will be installed to improve drainage. Sanitary sewer will be extended to the south to serve future development. An 8-foot-wide asphalt trail will be constructed on the west side of the road for pedestrians and bicyclists.

News

SPRING 2016

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CITYNews

City of Austin Mower County Vision 2020 Austin Public Schools

RUN FOR PUBLIC OFFICE The following positions will be open for filing May 17 through May 31 at the City Clerk’s Office in the Austin Municipal Building, 500 4th Avenue NE. There is a $25 filing fee.

OFFICES UP FOR ELECTION • • • • •

Mayor – four-year term One 1st Ward Council Member – four-year term One 2nd Ward Council Member – four-year term One 3rd Ward Council Member – four-year term Three Utility Board Commissioners – four-year terms

ELECTION DATES FOR 2016 Filing dates for public office: May 17 through May 31, 2016 Primary election date: August 9, 2016 General election date: November 8, 2016 Applicants for public office must be 21 and have their residence in the City of Austin. Council member positions have the additional requirement of being a registered voter in the ward for which you apply.

City of Austin Provides Floodplain Information If you want to know if a property is in the Special Flood Hazard Area, check our website at: http://www. ci.austin.mn.us/public-works/flood-mitigation-program. Information regarding floodplain maps (Flood Insurance Rate Map or FIRM), flood mitigation projects, and the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) are provided, as well as ideas for protecting your property from flood damage.

Special rules for building in the floodplain are found in Chapter 12 of the Austin City Code, also on our website at: http://www. amlegal.com/codes/client/austin_mn/ As of 1991, if a building permit was issued for a new structure or substantial improvement of a structure (more than 50% of assessed value), FEMA elevation certificates are available.

You can also call the Planning and Zoning or Engineering Departments at 507-437-9950 with floodplain questions.

POLLING LOCATIONS FOR 2016 The City of Austin has six different locations where citizens vote. You must vote at your correct precinct.

Please review the map of the City to find your ward and precinct.

Live in:

Vote at:

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

City Hall – Council Chambers Austin High School Hastings Gym Austin High School Hastings Gym Southgate Elementary School Banfield Elementary School Mower County Senior Center Ellis Middle School

Ward 1, Precinct 1 Ward 1, Precinct 2 Ward 1, Precinct 3 Ward 2, Precinct 1 Ward 2, Precinct 2 Ward 3, Precinct 1 Ward 3, Precinct 2

Riverland Community College Is No Longer a Polling Location: Only one precinct has changed from the last municipal election. Riverland Community College will no longer be a voting location. Citizens in Ward 1, Precinct 1 will now vote at City Hall in the Council Chambers.

If you have not pre-registered to vote in your precinct, please do so prior to the Election Day at the Mower County Auditor’s Office in the Courthouse or on the Minnesota Secretary of State’s website. Please call Ann Kasel at 437-9943 if you have any questions.

To find where you need to vote, go to this website: http://pollfinder.sos.state.mn.us/

CITYNews

Austin Parks, Recreation & Forestry Department 121 4th Avenue NE – 507-433-1881 Summer 2016 office hours – Monday through Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm n Austin Municipal Pool The Pool opens June 13 at 1:00 pm.

Hours are Monday – Friday, 1:00 - 4:30 pm Monday, Wednesday and Thursday evening 7:00 - 8:30 pm Saturday 1:00 - 6:00 pm Sunday 2:00 - 7:00 pm Adult lap swim Mon – Sat from 12 to 1:00 pm

n Pool Time! Seasonal memberships are $30. Ages 2 and under are free. Daily admission is $3 and evening admission is $2. You must be 8 years old to come to the pool without an adult! Sign up for swim lessons and purchase your membership at the same time for a $10 discount. Swim lessons are $30 per person, sign up at our office. Did you know you could rent the pool? Check with us for availability. n

Youth Sports: NEW this spring is pickleball lessons for ages 4 to 11. Also available: golf for ages 6 and up, soccer for ages 5 – 9, track for ages 5 to adult, tennis for ages 4 to 11, t-ball for ages 5 to 7, 5-Pitch for ages 7 -11, archery for ages 9 – 18, and Water, Nature & Adventure or Shake, Rattle & Read camps for ages 6 to 10.

n Adult Sports: Sand volleyball and co-ed kickball. Team deadline for sand volleyball is May 6 and May 27 for kickball. n Pavilion rental: Please call our office to rent the following facilities: East Side Lake gazebo, Horace Austin gazebo, Lions East & West pavilions, Lafayette Park pavilion, Shirley Theel Memorial Park pavilion, Izaak Walton Cabin, three pavilions in Todd Park, and Veterans Pavilion. We also rent picnic equipment. Check out our list of rental equipment in the summer brochure located on the city website. n Nature Center: The nature center will offer the 3rd Annual Water Festival on July 11-15. This is a free family event. Nature Play afternoons are back on the following Thursdays: June 16, 23, 30; July 14, 21, 28; August 25; and on one Saturday: August 6 from 1:00-4:00 pm. Check the website for exact times those events take place. For this and all nature center activities, check out www.hormelnaturecenter.org .

n Riverside Arena: The arena will have ice this summer so watch for open skate or hockey classes and camps this May and June!

These are just some of the highlights for our summer sports or activities, please find more information by calling or checking our website at www.ci.austin.mn.us. Like us on Facebook!

SEWER CLEANING SCHEDULE:

Keep Your Toilet Lids Down The City will be cleaning sewer lines in the southwest Austin area this year. Some older homes do not have proper plumbing ventilation so air pressure from the strong cleaning could cause water from toilets to be blown out. The best remedy is prevention. If you see a truck (jetter) in your neighborhood similar to the one pictured, keep all your toilet lids closed. For additional information call the City Engineering Department at 437-9950.

3 City of Austin Mower County Vision 2020 Austin Public Schools

Hydrant Flushing Annual fire hydrant flushing conducted by the Austin Fire Department will begin in April and continue until June. This year the southwest quadrant of the city is scheduled to be flushed.

Hydrant flushing is done to remove minerals and sediment that accumulate in the water lines. During the hydrant flushing, you may observe a fire hydrant with water coming out of the side opening. On occasion, the water in your home may have an orange or rusty appearance. The water is safe to use and drink. The discoloration is caused by the iron sediment in the water main being disturbed by the hydrant flushing. If this occurs, please run your COLD water for several minutes to clear your lines. You should also flush your toilets once or twice. The water should run clear within a few minutes. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the hydrant flushing process, please call the City of Austin Fire Department at 507-433-3405.

Test Your Smoke Detectors!

Every six months we change our clocks and our batteries in our smoke detectors, thus the saying “Change your clocks, change your batteries!” Smoke detectors should be visually inspected and replaced every ten years. They should be located in every bedroom and on every level of your home.

The Austin Fire Department will supply and install home owners with one free smoke detector. If you own your home and live within the City of Austin limits or Austin/Lansing Townships, please call the fire department at 507-433-3405 to schedule an installation date.

Open Burning Permits A burn permit is required for any open burning within the city limits. This does not pertain to camp/recreational fires. To obtain a burn permit, please call the Austin Fire Department at 507-433-3405.

Camp / Recreational Fires Fires are not permitted within 25 feet of a structure, combustible materials, or property lines. Fires contained within a grill, fire ring, fire pit, or other approved appliance must maintain a 15-foot separation from combustible materials or structures. A 55-gallon drum is not an approved appliance. Fire extinguisher, buckets of sand or water, shovels or garden hoses must be readily available. Your fire must be constantly attended by a person knowledgeable in the use of fire extinguishing equipment. Supervise the fire until it is fully extinguished.

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CITYNews

City of Austin Mower County Vision 2020 Austin Public Schools

Points to Ponder from the Police Department Here are some important points and frequently asked questions from your police department. We are here to serve you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Please feel free to contact us (507-437-9400) at your convenience if you have additional questions.

n Animal licenses: Licenses are available at the Austin Municipal Building located at 500 4th Ave NE during Monday-Friday business hours. Austin city ordinance allows residents to own up to three animals which must be licensed, wearing tags, and leashed when not confined. It is unlawful for any person who owns, harbors or has custody of a dog, cat or Vietnamese potbellied pig to cause or permit the animal to defecate on any public property or, without the consent of the owner, on any private property unless the person immediately removes the excrement and properly disposes of it.

n Curfew: It is unlawful for minors under the age of 16 to be on public roadways, property, or places of amusement and entertainment between the hours of 10:30 pm and 5:00 am, unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. And it is unlawful for minors between the ages of 16 years and 18 years to be on public roadways, property, or places of amusement/ entertainment between the hours of 12:00 midnight and 5:00 am, unless accompanied by a parent or guardian.

n Speed restrictions in the city parks: It is unlawful to operate any vehicle greater than 15 mph within a city park, nor should a vehicle be driven off the roadway or parking area within any park.

n Noise ordinance: A person may call the Police Department to report a disturbing

No Butts! Cigarettes are Litter Cigarette butts are the most common form of litter worldwide as an estimated 4.5 trillion cigarette butts are discarded every year. Smoked cigarette butts were all found to be acutely toxic to representative freshwater fish in a 2011 San Diego State University study. Cigarette butts are not biodegradable.

The life of a cigarette butt thrown on the ground can be 25 years – ample time for the toxic chemicals that the filters trap by design to be carried away by stormwater and into our environment. These chemicals include arsenic, acetone, ammonia, benzene, cadmium, formaldehyde, lead, and toluene. Please use the receptacles found throughout the city or dispose of these properly where they will not impact our local waters. Used cigarettes are litter and toxic when combined with water. For additional information call the City Engineering Department at 437-9950.

noise at any hour throughout the day. Often dogs barking, loud parties, or loud music are causes for complaint. Examples of violations would be loud music coming from residences, vehicles, or businesses. Responding officers will usually attempt to resolve the issue with a request to reduce the noise before issuing citations.

n Vehicle parking: Here are a few things to know about parking a vehicle. It is unlawful for any person to park a motor vehicle: • Over 12 inches from a curb or to left-hand park (facing the wrong direction).

• On a sidewalk or in front of a public or private driveway.

• Within an intersection or on a crosswalk.

• In sign-posted fire lane.

• It is also unlawful for any person to stop, park, or leave standing any vehicle upon any city residential street for a continuous period in excess of 12 hours.

n Transfer of Vehicle Titles: For your protection upon the sale of a vehicle to a private party, it is recommended that the seller and buyer take the completed transfer to a Deputy Registrar at their local Minnesota Department of Vehicle Services to record the title transfer. If you are unable to complete the transfer in person, the seller must record the buyer’s information on the back of the title and report the notice of sale within ten days to the State of Minnesota Department of Public Safety. Instructions for reporting the sale in this manner are also printed on the back of the title. n Citizen Police Academy: The Austin Police Department offered its first Citizen Police Academy in many years in the fall of 2015. Participants met at the Law Enforcement Center one night per week for six weeks. The training sessions offered citizens the opportunity to learn about how public safety officials operated in Austin. We hope to offer the class again in 2016.

Every Curb is a Shoreline

Austin is a city known as an MS4, a municipality with a separate storm sewer system. This means the city is responsible for taking rain water on roadways and other pavement via a network of underground pipes to nearby rivers and creeks. This water is not treated at the waste water treatment plant like household drains. Anything that enters the roadway or is dropped on pavement will be picked up by rainwater and end up in our rivers and creeks. Washing paint onto a driveway, salting a sidewalk, or sweeping leaves into the street is the same as dumping it right into the river. We all have riverfront property when it comes to water quality. If you would like more information on reducing our impact on water quality in Austin, please call the City Engineering Department at 437-9950.

COUNTYNews

Mower SWCD, County working together on Aquatic Invasive Species

By Tim Ruzek, SWCD Water Plan & Outreach Coordinator

A fishing trip may last a day but zebra mussels can live in a lake forever.

That’s why the State of Minnesota and Mower County along with many other partnering counties are working to educate the public and take actions to protect our waters by preventing the transport of zebra mussels, Eurasian watermilfoil and other aquatic invasive species (AIS).

Minnesota waters are threatened by AIS, and it is illegal to transport any aquatic plants, zebra mussels, New Zealand mudsnails or other prohibited invasive species, which are species not native to Minnesota and cause economic or environmental harm or harm to human health.

In 2014, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources started providing AIS funding to counties for the sole use of preventing the introduction of or limiting the spread of AIS at all waterway access sites within each county. Funding is based on each county’s number of motorized boat accesses.

Most water bodies in Minnesota are not on the infested waters list – only about 5 percent of Minnesota’s more than 11,000 lakes are on the infested waters list. With AIS, the DNR aims to: • Prevent the spread of AIS within Minnesota.

• Prevent the introduction of new invasive species to the state.

• Contain infestations where treatment is not possible.

Mower County officially has three motorized boat access sites, including above the Ramsey Dam on the Cedar River; northeast corner of the Austin Mill Pond downtown; and along East Side Lake (Dobbins Creek) in Austin. Mower SWCD, which will lead the AIS efforts in the county, has requested a fourth access site be added by the DNR for Pine Lawn Park along Deer Creek in Grand Meadow.

This year, Mower SWCD will implement AIS public education throughout Mower County in various ways, including posting information on its Facebook page at www. facebook.com/mowerswcd, as well as devoting staff members with AIS experience to evaluate the local boat access sites for any presence of AIS. DNR will add a lake, river, pond or wetland to the infested waters list if it contains certain aquatic invasive species that could spread to other waters. The DNR also might list a lake, river, pond or wetland as infested if it is

5 City of Austin Mower County Vision 2020 Austin Public Schools

Mower County Recycling Changes Submitted by Jeff Weaver, Solid Waste Officer

The Mower County Board of Commissioners has decided to make changes to the recycling program starting in the fall of 2016.

• Recycling pickup will go from twice a month to weekly.

• Plastic containers labeled #1 through #7 on the bottom will be collected. (Remove all caps and rinse all food residue from the containers before placing in the recycling bins.)

As in the past, the following are NOT acceptable: • NO plastic bags, • NO shrink wrap • NO non-container plastics (toys, laundry baskets, car parts, etc.)

• NO styrofoam of any kind • NO packing peanuts

More information will be available as the implementation date draws nearer. The projected start date is, at this time, September 1, 2016. connected to a body of water where an aquatic invasive species is present. To reduce the risk of spreading AIS, activities like bait harvest, commercial fishing, and water use are managed differently in infested waters.

DNR advises all to “Clean, Drain, Dispose.”

• CLEAN all visible aquatic plants, zebra mussels and other prohibited invasive species from watercraft, trailers and water-related equipment before leaving any water access or shoreland.

• DRAIN water-related equipment (boats, ballast tanks, portable bait containers, and motors) and drain bilge, livewell and baitwell by removing drain plugs before leaving a water access or shoreline property. Keep drain plugs out and water-draining devices open while transporting watercraft.

• DISPOSE of unwanted bait, including minnows, leeches and worms in the trash. It is illegal to release bait into a waterbody or release aquatic animals from one waterbody to another. If you want to keep your bait, you must refill the bait container with bottled or tap water.

KNOW THE LAW – you may not: • Transport watercraft without removing the drain plug.

• Arrive at lake access with drain plug in place.

• Transport aquatic plants, zebra mussels or other prohibited species on any roadway.

• Launch a watercraft with prohibited species attached.

• Transport water from Minnesota lakes or rivers.

• Release bait into the water.

Additional recommendations: Spray, rinse, dry – Some invasive species are small and difficult to see at the access. To remove or kill them, take one or more of the following precautions before moving to another waterbody, especially after leaving zebra mussel and spiny waterflea infested waters: • Spray with high-pressure water.

• Rinse with very hot water.

• Dry for at least 5 days.

Run motor and personal watercraft for a few seconds to discharge water before leaving a water access.

Transport fish on ice – be prepared and bring a cooler.

Report new infestations, if you suspect one, by taking a photo and noting the location or by saving a specimen and reporting it to a local DNR invasive species contact.

Some people fish and boat on the water bodies in Mower County but many local residents also utilize the lake and river accesses throughout Minnesota. Invasive species are being introduced to new areas through the transport of various boats and vehicles. The spread of AIS results in challenging management of the invasive species once they are established. Aside from personal watercraft, other activities can risk spreading AIS. Those activities include sailing, scuba diving, waterfowl hunting, shore and fly-fishing, seaplane pilots and wild rice harvesting.

For more information, visit the DNR AIS webpage at

www.dnr.state.mn.us/ais

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COUNTYNews

City of Austin Mower County Vision 2020 Austin Public Schools

FAQ: Zoning Permits

By Angela Knish, Environmental Services Supervisor

What’s the difference between building and zoning permits? Generally most people use these terms interchangeably. However, for people in the industry who issue these permits they are two different and distinct permits. A building permit is issued by a building code official. A building code official is looking at the structural features of the building to determine if it does or does not meet minimum building code standards. Mower County issues zoning permits. A zoning permit is issued when 1) the use is allowed in the district for which it was requested for and 2) the request meets all technical standards of the ordinance.

For example: setbacks from the road right-of-way, side and rear property lines, setbacks from a protected feature such as shoreland or floodplain, setback from a feedlot, height and lot size requirements are met; if applicable septic system requirements are met. These are just some examples.

n When is a zoning permit required? Ordinance Excerpt: No person in the county shall erect, alter, or move any building or any part thereof without first securing a zoning permit therefore. In all cases where an improvement will serve to change the exterior shape of the structure including enclosed porches, regardless of the cost of the improvement, a zoning permit must be secured. No permit shall be required for minor repairs, such as redecorating either the inside or the outside, residing, or reshingling.

n Does a deck require a zoning permit? Yes. Mower County’s zoning ordinance was amended in 2013 to require a permit for decks in order to be compliant with FEMA floodplain standards and MN Shoreland rules.

n What are some other project examples that require a zoning permit?

• When you construct something or move a structure on your property or onto your property anywhere within Mower County.

• When you move dirt, remove vegetation or trees, or store anything adjacent to protected waters or within floodplain areas; anywhere within Mower County.

• When you operate a business – check to make sure you are properly zoned or have the proper permits if your business will be located anywhere within Mower County.

• When you have animals at your site that will create a feedlot, as defined by the State of Minnesota.

• If you install, replace or make major improvements to a septic system.

• When you erect a sign; a permit may be required. Setbacks always apply.

• Division or subdivision of property may require a permit; please check. There are minimum lot size, depth and width requirements for parcels for each district. Some parcel division may require platting. There may also be other requirements; be sure to check.

n Why do I need a zoning permit? Specifically a zoning ordinance is a “local law”. An ordinance is passed by the governing body of the local unit of government; such as a City Council, Board of County Commissioner’s or a Township Board. A person gets a permit to stay in compliance with the “local law” and to protect their investment.

If you don’t get a permit where one is required; technically you are breaking the (local) law and may be subject to enforcement and penalties for not obtaining one. Penalties may include, but not be limited to, fines, jail-time, removal of the structure or any combination of penalties.

A structure, building or use of the property which did not obtain proper permits and was required to so, has no “established rights” no matter how long it has been there.

Protect your investment – get the permit! Lending institutions (banks), potential purchasers, and some realtors are now checking to make sure permits were properly obtained before investing time or money in or underwriting a mortgage for the property. In some cases, you may be required to modify or entirely remove the illegal construction in order to comply with the ordinance.

n What are the consequences if I build something without an approved zoning permit? Constructing without a permit is punishable as a misdemeanor. Misdemeanor penalties are up to $1,000 per day of offense and/or up to 90 days in jail per day of offense for each violation. In certain cases the owner of the property can be required by a judge to modify the illegal structure to conform to the ordinance or totally remove the illegal structure or use.

n When should I apply? During the planning phase of your project! You cannot begin your project until the zoning permit has been approved. Anyone who starts construction without issuance of the proper permit does so at his/her own risk and risks possible consequences.

We know that some applicants are very anxious to obtain their permits; we will be happy to notify you by phone or preferably by email upon issuance of the permit; please note this to staff when submitting your application so they can note that special request. Otherwise once processed a zoning permit is mailed to you at the address you provided.

I estimate more than 90% of the zoning applications received by Mower County will go smoothly and will be issued in a timely fashion. In most instances I advise people to apply for their zoning permit no less than two weeks before they intend to construct to keep them on-tract with their goals.

If your parcel is located within 300 feet of a river, stream

and or an area subject to flooding; my suggestion would be to contact us at least 4-6 weeks prior to construction. This is considered a sensitive area and there are more requirements and/ or restrictions which apply. Contact us as early as possible in your planning process to keep your project on schedule.

For more complex projects, like a feedlot or business venture, which may include other permits such as a feedlot permit or a conditional use permit; you may want to meet with our staff about processes 1-3 months ahead of time.

Large scale or industrial type projects may want to start communicating with our office no less than 3 months ahead of their proposed construction to determine what all will be required for permitting; 6-months may be better.

There are also other factors that sometimes come into play; such as a variance or conditional use permit. For certain projects other permits, processes, or approvals from other agencies may be required before a zoning permit can be issued to begin construction. If any of these issues arise – it takes longer to get a zoning permit to begin construction. When in doubt – contact your zoning staff as early in your planning process as possible.

n How do I get a zoning permit? If your property is located within a city; you would contact the appropriate city official for their ordinance. If your property is located outside of a municipality (a city) you would apply for a zoning permit through the Mower County Public Works Office at 1105 8th Avenue NE, Austin, Minnesota either in person or call 507-437-7718 to request an application by mail. A Mower County Zoning Permit costs $30.00 and the cash or check payment is due at the time the application is submitted. If you have questions about zoning in the county you can contact the office or review the county’s zoning or septic ordinances, comprehensive plan or zoning maps on-line at www.co.mower. mn.us under the Public Works tab; scroll down towards the bottom.

I want your project to go as smooth and painless as you do. Ninety percent of projects will go smoothly and quickly.

Please contact our office early in the process so we can look to see if any issues may arise; especially if your parcel is located within a 1/8 mile of a river or stream or in an area that is subject to periodic flooding or if you are proposing a project which is: a) or does not appear to be allowed by ordinance; b) requires a conditional use permit c) cannot meet the technical standards of the ordinance and a variance is needed. It is much easier to address any potential issues when in the planning phase of a project. Review services are free of charge by appointment 507-437-7718.

COUNTYNews Minnesota Veterans State Soldiers Assistance Program Submitted by Wayne Madson, Veteran Service Officer

The State Soldier’s Assistance Program provides cash assistance in the form of shelter payments (rent and mortgage), utilities, and personal needs grants to veterans who are unable to work as a result of temporary disability.

Assistance is provided for the following items: • Dental • Utilities • Optical • Housing • Personal Needs The State Soldier’s Assistance Program provides assistance with dental and optical needs for veterans and their dependents who meet strict income and asset guidelines. Monthly Income Limits: $1,789 (single), $2,121 (married), $2,304 (married, 1 dependent), $2,487 (married, 2 dependents) and Asset Limits: $3,000 (single), $5,000 (married). The program for dental and optical may be used even though you are able to work or are working.

Dental assistance A maximum of $1000 per calendar year may be approved for routine dental assistance, $2,000 for extractions, $3,000 for dentures for veterans and their dependents.

Optical assistance A maximum of $400 for an eye exam and prescription eyewear may be approved once every calendar year for veterans and their dependents.

7 City of Austin Mower County Vision 2020 Austin Public Schools

ROADSIDE WEED SPRAYING Beginning in June, the Mower County Public Works Department, as part of its roadside vegetation management program, will be scheduling some roadside vegetation work along all Mower County Highways. Unwanted brush and noxious weeds will be cut and/or treated with herbicide. We are notifying the public about this work since affected lands may be adjacent to the roadside scheduled for treatment.

Our goal is to eliminate brush and weeds and promote grass cover along the roadside. Brush along the road reduces driving visibility, obstructs road signs, and reduces driver reaction time to crossing wildlife. Brush presents maintenance problems by retaining water along the roadbed, obstructing ditches and damaging equipment.

To meet these goals, we use selective herbicides that control the brush and weeds, but allow the grasses to grow unharmed. All herbicides we use have been fully tested and are approved by the United States Environmental Protection

Agency and the Minnesota Department of Agriculture.

During the spraying operations, care will be exercised so that sensitive areas adjacent to the right of way such as tree plantations, ornamental plantings, crops, gardens, front yards and streams are not adversely affected.

Landowners, who wish to maintain the right of way adjacent to their land in some other fashion such as mowing, should:

H Visit the Public Works office at 1105 8th Avenue NE, Austin, MN, obtain and fill out a “spraying refusal form”.

H Remove any brush and/or noxious weeds by June 15, and continue to maintain the site. If this is not done, we must treat the site as a part of our roadside vegetation management program.

If you have any questions, please call the Mower County Public Works Department at (507) 437-7718.

PASSPORT PHOTOS – $12.00 Available at the Mower County Recorder’s office Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. – 4:15 p.m.

Don’t wait until the last minute to renew or apply for a passport.

To qualify, veterans and their dependents must meet strict income and asset guidelines.

Applications for the State Soldiers Assistance Program must be made through the County Veteran Service Office. Please contact Wayne O. Madson, Veterans Service Officer at (507) 434-2712.

Passport Application Acceptance Days and Hours at the Recorder’s Office are as follows: Monday - Wednesday 8:00 am - 12:30 pm & 1:30 pm - 4:00 p.m.

For more information go to travel.state.gov or www.co.mower.mn.us/recorder.html#Passport Information The Mower County Recorder’s Office is located at 201 1st Street NE, Austin, MN.

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COUNTYNews

BECOME A LICENSED CHILD CARE PROVIDER Submitted by Lindsay Brekke, Social Services Supervisor

Child care providers are often our children’s first teachers and role models, thus playing an integral role in the development of early childhood learning.

Growing up in quality child care can have a vast impact on the future successes of children. In the hopes of bringing more child care providers to your community, I would encourage you to consider becoming a child care provider. Providers are professionals who teach children how to address life challenges and enrich their well-being, while helping to foster emotional

health and interpersonal relationships.

Family child care can offer a family individualized care that is flexible, low in cost and provides close interaction between provider and children.

For more information on becoming a child care provider, please contact: Brady Engelby Family Child Care Licensor Mower County Health and Human Services 507-437-9700 or 507-377-5511 www.mowercountyhhs.com

City of Austin Mower County Vision 2020 Austin Public Schools

HOME AND COMMUNITY BASED SERVICES Submitted by Pam Kellogg, Community Health Supervisor

On March 1, 2016, Mower County Health and Human Services began taking requests and referrals for Home and Community Based Services through a new intake phone number – 507-460-6194. Programs and services that can be accessed through this number include: • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Alternative Care Program Brain Injury Waiver Case Management Services Community Alternative Care Waiver Community Access for Disability Inclusion Waiver Consumer Support Grant Developmental Disabilities Waiver Elderly Waiver Essential Community Supports for Seniors Family Support Grant Moving Home Minnesota Personal Care Assistant Semi-Independent Living Services

If you, or someone you know, are in need of these services, please call 507-460-6194 or e-mail a request to HCBS@co.mower.mn.us.

BECOME A FOSTER PARENT Submitted by Lindsay Brekke, Social Services Supervisor

Mower County is currently seeking applicants to provide foster care for children from zero to 18 years of age who cannot remain in their parental home. Children come from a variety of backgrounds with very diverse needs. We are seeking persons who are willing and able to commit to the care of a child; whether it be 1) emergency shortterm care, 2) long-term care, or 3) as a concurrent home (people who are interested in providing foster care with the potential to adopt a child who is not reunified with their parents, relatives or kin). Applicants have the ability to determine what ages and levels of needs for which they wish to be licensed.

Applicants for foster care must be willing to commit to the care of a child or children in their home as if the child were their own. Foster parents are expected to provide for the day to day needs of the child as well as being able to attend appointments on a frequent basis, provide transportation to and

from visits with birth parent(s), attend school conferences and meetings and well as meet the social needs of the child. There is a daily stipend for foster care services and Mower County supports working foster parents with assistance with day care costs.

Persons applying will need to be over the age of 21 and must be able to pass a thorough criminal background check. Applicants can be single individuals, married couples, individuals who work outside the home, or stay-at-home parents. All necessary training is provided by Mower County Health & Human Services.

For more information on being a foster parent to a child in need, please contact: Doris Hoy, Case Aide Foster Care Licensor Mower County Health & Human Services (507) 481-4321 www.mowercountyhhs.com

DUST CONTROL

ON MOWER COUNTY GRAVEL ROADS Mower County will be coordinating with a contractor for the application of dust control (chloride) on gravel roads under county jurisdiction for the 2016 season.

If land owners are interested in having the application done in front of their property (at their own expense), please contact Mower County Public Works office at 507-437-7718 by May 27, 2016.

The county will bill landowner upon completion of application.

This work does not include dust control on Township roadways.

VISION

2020 News

FREE EXPERT ADVICE AVAILABLE TO START OR GROW A BUSINESS

The Vision 2020 Business Friendly Environment committee understands that developing Austin’s economy means creating more opportunities for ownership and job creation. When it comes to starting a business or making an existing enterprise more successful, knowledge is power.

Since 2014, the Development Corporation of Austin has partnered with the Small Business Development Center in Rochester to provide free and confidential consulting for current and aspiring small business owners.

Mark Thein is Austin’s consultant, and he brings over 17 years of experience working one-on-one with entrepreneurs. He can help with business plan development, loan packaging and financing analysis, marketing and market research, and many other helpful tools to get your business off the ground or kick it into the next gear. In the past year alone Mark has assisted 22 clients in Austin and helped access $180,000 in capital for their businesses.

You can contact Mark at (507) 459-3060 or mwjrthein@gmail.com.

He will be happy to talk or meet with you to discuss your needs. Even if you’re not yet sure where to start or where you’re headed, Mark can point you in the right direction.

Vision 2020 launches new website Vision 2020 is made up of nine active volunteer committees, all working on a variety of different projects to make Austin a better place to live, work, and play. Whether it is creating a business-friendly environment, protecting our waterways, increasing community pride, or any of our other goals, we are excited about the progress happening in our city and love to talk about it!

That is why, over the past few months, the Vision 2020 leadership team has been developing a new website. Our main goal has been to make it easier for everyone to learn more about what’s happening and how it’s impacting our com-

CHIP expanding efforts in 2016 All homes require regular maintenance to remain safe and comfortable, but for some homeowners the needed repairs are too daunting to tackle alone or too expensive to hire help.

To help address these challenges, the Vision 2020 Community Pride and Spirit committee launched the Community Home Improvement Project (CHIP) four years ago. The program is run in partnership with Habitat for Humanity and the Austin HRA, with the support of The Hormel Foundation. In short, the program helps reduce the costs of external home improvement projects for those in need.

Here’s how it works: CHIP volunteers provide up to 50% of the labor hours necessary to complete a project, which is matched by the homeowners. Homeowners pay for their own materials, but may be eligible for grants or low interest loans. In the end, homeowners must commit to stay in the home for several years or can choose to pay back the investment made by others on their behalf. Whatever the project, the work leads to safer, more comfortable, and more valuable homes.

9 City of Austin Mower County Vision 2020 Austin Public Schools

CHIP has grown every year and is looking to pick up the pace even more in 2016. Volunteers have helped 40 homes to date, and they are hoping for 30 more this year. This will be the first year the program is offered throughout the entire city of Austin, so they are expecting to receive many more applications. CHIP is also looking to reach out to veterans this year, if you or someone you know has served our country and could use a hand with their home.

If CHIP sounds like something you, a friend, neighbor, or family member could benefit from, you can contact Brent Johnson, the Community Development Coordinator for Habitat for Humanity - Freeborn/Mower.

Once you get in touch with Brent, he will provide you with more information and see if the home or project will qualify.

He can be reached at 507-433-1349 (ext. 2) or community@habitatfreebornmower.org.

Volunteer for the Community Home Improvement Project Zhera Paaverud scrapes the side of a home in southeast Austin. Photo provided by the Austin Daily Herald

munity. The new site is now complete and can be found at the same address as before: www.vision2020austin.com.

There are all kinds of great things happening in Austin, but they don’t always get covered in the news or get the attention they deserve.

On the new website you will be able to find information about each of our committees, their past work and future goals, news and updates, meeting minutes, upcoming events, and much more.

We hope you’ll enjoy browsing the new site, and you can always contact Vision 2020 Director Greg Siems (507-437-3448 or greg@ vision2020austin.com) with any questions.

SCHOOLNews

10

City of Austin Mower County Vision 2020 Austin Public Schools

SUMMER SPORTS CAMPS n Boys Basketball Kids Camp Date: June 13 – 17 Location: Austin High School in Packer Gym Times: 1st – 2nd grade from 1:00 – 2:00pm

3rd – 4th grade from 2:15 – 3:30 pm Cost: $25.00 Contact: Kris Fadness 507-440-8884 kris.fadness@austin.k12.mn.us

n Boys Basketball Packer Camp n Power Sports Training Camp Date: June 13 thru July 28;

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday Location: AHS weight room, AHS Hastings Gym, Wescott Complex Times: 6:30 – 11:30am Age level: Grades 5 – 12 Cost: $95.00 Contact: Brett Vesel 218-591-4805 brett.vesel@austin.k12.mn.us

n Power Frosh Football Camp Date: June 27, 28, 29, 30 Location: Wescott Stadium Field Times: 3:00 – 6:00pm Age level: Incoming Freshmen Football Players Cost: $55.00 Contact: Brett Vesel 218-591-4805 brett.vesel@austin.k12.mn.us

n Pack Youth Football Camp Grades 5-8 Date: July 25, 26, 27 Location: Wescott Stadium Field Times: 3:30 – 5:30pm Age level: Grades 5-8 Cost: $55.00 Contact: Brett Vesel 218-591-4805 brett.vesel@austin.k12.mn.us

n Girls Basketball Kids Camp Date: June 20 – 24 Location: Ove Bervan Gym at Austin High School Times: K-3rd Grade from 9:00 – 10:30am

4th-8th Grade from 10:30 – 12:00pm Cost: $30.00 Contact: Todd Johnson 507-440-7642 todd.johnson@austin.k12.mn.us

Date: June 13, 15, 17, 20, 22, 24, 27 and 29 Location: Austin High school – Packer and Hastings gym Date: July 11, 13, 15, 18, 20, 22, 25 and 27 Location: At Ellis Gym

Entering 5th – 8th grade 8:00 – 9:30 am

Entering 9th – 12th grade 9:30 – 11:00 am

n Volleyball Camp Date: July 18th, 19th and 20th Location: Austin High School – Ove Berven Gym Times: 9th – 12th grade from 12:00 – 2:00pm

7th – 8th grade from 2:00 – 4:00 pm

4th – 6th grade from 4:00 – 5:30 pm Cost: $35.00 Contact: Cindy Owen 507-360-1389 cindy.owen@austin.k12.mn.us

n Girls and Boys Soccer Camp Date: June 13 – 17 Location: Wescott Track Field Times: 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Age level: Grades 1-8 Cost: $60.00 Contact: Jens Levisen 507-460-1800 ext. 0210 jens.levisen@austin.k12.mn.us

n Packer Wrestling Kids Camp K-6 Boys/Girls who are interested in giving wrestling a try or want to improve upon already learned skills.

Date: June 20 – 24 Location: High School Wrestling Room Times: Kids entering K–3rd grade 1:00 – 2:00pm

Kids entering 4th–6th grade from 2:00 – 3:00pm Cost: $25-all participants receive a t-shirt Contact: Jer Osgood 507 440-3036 jer.osgood@austin.k12.mn.us

n Tennis Camp Date:

Times:

July 5-16 Week 1: Tuesday – Saturday Week 2: Monday – Saturday 9:00 – 10:30am Entering grades 5 - 6 10:30 – 12:00pm Entering grades 7 - 8 12:30 – 2:00pm Entering grades 9 - 12

In addition, there will be open tennis for students entering grades 9-12 during the weeks of June 13–July 1st. This is an opportunity for players to meet and play; direct instructions will not be provided, but equipment will be available.

Cost: $30.00 – Students entering grades 5 - 8

$40.00 – Students entering grades 9 - 12 Location: Paulson Tennis Courts, Wescott Complext Contact: Troy Diekman 507-434-4987 tdiekman@charter.net

Levon Larson 507-437-4321 levon.larson@gmail.com

TALKING IS TEACHING 80% of a child’s brain if formed by the age of 3. When you talk, read and sing to your child you fill their brain with words and thoughts that make all the difference to their happiness and their future. The Austin Literacy Initiative is a collaborative partnership between community organizations that are working to increase literacy skills in our community.

Our message is simple; talk, read and sing to your children to increase their vocabulary.

www.talkingisteaching.org #talkreadingaustin

SCHOOLNews

11 City of Austin Mower County Vision 2020 Austin Public Schools

Do you have a band instrument you no longer need?

NEW WEBSITE & SOCIAL MEDIA

Austin Public Schools unveiled a new website in late March. The new website is designed to work with all devices and is responsive to the various platforms and screen sizes. APS was recently recognized #8 nationally for our use of technology to enhance education district wide in the category of mid-size schools. The district social media links are:

Website: https://www.austin.k12.mn.us Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/isd492 Announcements and shared content from various sources

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/isd492 Announcements and links as well as occasional live-streaming

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/isd492 Videos from around the district

Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/isd492/collections Photos from around the district with easy sharing to social media

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/isd492 Collected links, articles, and videos

Austin Public Schools is accepting donations of band instruments that are in good condition. These instruments are given to grade 5 students who want to be in band but cannot participate because they cannot afford the cost of the instrument. If you have an instrument that you would like to donate to Austin Public Schools to be used by a beginning grade 5 student next year, drop the instrument off at any Austin Public School with your name and contact information.

Once the instruments are collected, we will have an instrument repair service give us a value on each instrument and a price for refurbishing the instruments. The district has set aside funds to refurbish the donated instruments and will do so over the summer months. A letter is sent to each donor outlining the value of the donated instrument for his/her records.

Impact Students with a Rewarding Career in Education!

PARAPROFESSIONAL TRAINING ACADEMY Fridays June 3 – July 22 • 9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Austin Adult Learning is offering a FREE eight week training designed to help prepare you for a rewarding career as a paraprofessional.

Free Breakfast and Lunch Available for Children this Summer

During this training we will: H Teach you essential skills for classroom success H Prepare you to successfully pass the ParaPro Exam H Increase your digital literacy skills H Get ready for your job search and interviews

Breakfast is served from 7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.

Lunch is served from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Both breakfast and lunch are available at two locations Monday – Friday.

* All students that successfully pass this class are guaranteed an interview with Austin Public Schools, as long as there are current openings *

n I.J. Holton Intermediate School 1800 4th Avenue SE

n Austin High School 301 3rd Street NW

Both sites are closed on Friday, July 3rd AHS Site is closed on July 27th and 28th

n No registration required n Breakfast and lunch are available for children 18 years old and younger n Adults can enjoy the same lunch for $3.80

Austin Community Education is hosting a wide variety of classes and free activities in conjunction with summer lunch. For a complete listing of classes and activities go to www.austin.k12.mn.us/clc/

Space is limited so contact us today to sign up for registration!

Austin Adult Learning • 507.460.1707

SCHOOLNews

12

City of Austin Mower County Vision 2020 Austin Public Schools

Supporting Student Success at Austin High School Challenging students to understand and meet their highest potential is a primary goal of all schools. Austin High School has recently implemented two new programs to support students and increase student success. The REACH and AVID programs are voluntary programs to assist students who may need additional support academically, socially and/or emotionally.

REACH stands for Relationship, Education, Accountability, Character and Hard work which are the five core values that guide the program as they support students’ academic, social, and emotional needs. REACH currently serves approximately 90 students and works as a team of 4 adults, each with their own specialty and strengths.

REACH strives to create a new culture of learning by flipping what a traditional classroom may look like in order to dedicate time to blend accountability and hard work, with relationship building and some good old fun.

REACH is a two-period class offered five-days a week, for the whole semester. The philosophy of REACH focuses on building trust, security, and the comfort necessary to change the mindset of students who may dislike school, are behind in credits, unorganized, have improper study habits, and in some cases have an internal belief system that they are a ‘failure.’

After only three or four semesters, students are seeing a difference! Students’ successes have bridged from school to home. Many students commented how REACH has helped them feel more comfortable and happy while at school and have a sense of ‘home’ while at school. REACH helps build student’s self-confidence about their academic potential and gives them motivation and resources to do better in school. It also teaches skills in how to advocate for their needs with teachers and other adults.

Graduating high school is the primary goal of REACH. Students are celebrating academic successes of all magnitudes; including passing grades on tests, passing classes, increasing GPA, and taking PSEO

courses. Austin Public Schools is extremely proud of the work our REACH students, staff and the teachers at AHS have put in! A total of 77 students were being supported through REACH in the fall semester of 2015, and of those students 89% were able to pass ALL their classes.

Students have found success through another program called AVID. AVID stands for Advancement Via Individual Determination. AVID’s mission is to close the achievement gap by preparing all students for college readiness and success in our global society. Students enroll in the AVID Elective course which strategically teaches organization and study skills. Students develop critical thinking, learn to ask probing questions, and receive academic help from tutors and peers to prepare them to be college ready. AVID Elective fosters a family mentality that students will excel and succeed together. In addition to the AVID Elective, students are enrolled in at least one course that is more challenging as compared to the course the students would normally be recommended for; these courses include Honors, Advanced Placement [AP] and Pre-AP. The success of AVID has spread throughout Austin Public Schools. Since starting in grades 9 and 10 in the 2014-15 school year, AVID supports students in grade 11 at AHS as well as Sumner Elementary School and IJ Holton Intermediate School supporting learners in grades 4-6. Next year, AVID will be supporting learners at Ellis Middle School for students in grades 7 and 8.

In one student’s words, AVID is, “…a guide to your future.” Beyond academic goals, AVID pushes students past what they thought they were capable of doing and promotes the skills to access and be successful in college and in life.

“Engaging and empowering ALL learners for life,” is Austin Public Schools’ mission. Through programs like REACH and AVID, we are providing the right supports at the right time for our community to reach our true potential.

Reader’s Café Ages: Preschool – 8th grade

Reader’s Café is a Free Book exchange with a wide range of books available to read and check out. We are located at I. J. Holton Intermediate and Austin High school at the summer lunch sites.

We love to talk about books.

Come and find something great to read.

We have tons of suggestions for you!

Also, weekly activities, story times, and games!

A fun place to retreat from the heat, or go on a rainy day!

Best of all, there is no cost . . .

It’s all FREE! FREE! FREE! Intended audience is preschool children to middle school students.

No registration required.

Monday-Thursday, June 13 - July 29, 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

I.J. Holton and Austin High School cafeterias.

WANTED

We need gently used children’s books for our summer reading centers. We are especially in need of early readers and young chapter books. Drop off your book donations to any Austin Public School main office. No textbook or adult books are accepted.