Life in the Prairie Winter 2024

LIFE in the

PRAIRIE

Inside

Celebrating 2023 Photo Contest Winners New Parks and Recreation Director

WINTER 2024

EDEN PRAIRIE CITY COUNCIL Mayor Ron Case Current Term 2023–2026 Previous Terms 2019–2022; 2017–2020; 2013–2016; 2009–2012; 2005–2008; 2001–2004; 1997–2000 RCase@edenprairie.org 952-949-8593

City Council Meetings Meetings typically occur the first and third Tuesdays of each month at City Center. edenprairie.org/Calendar

SCHEDULE 5:30 p.m.

City Council Workshop Heritage Rooms

6:30–6:55 p.m.

Public Open Podium Council Chambers Call 952-949-8412 to be scheduled to speak.

Council Member Mark Freiberg

Council Member PG Narayanan

Current Term 2023–2026

Current Term 2021–2024

Previous Term 2019–2022

Previous Term 2019–2020

MFreiberg@edenprairie.org 612-581-7504

PGNarayanan@edenprairie.org 952-393-3100

Council Member Kathy Nelson

Council Member Lisa Toomey

Current Term 2023–2026

Current Term 2021–2024

Previous Terms 2019–2022; 2015–2018; 2011–2014; 2007–2010

LToomey@edenprairie.org 952-388-8827

7 p.m.

Council Meeting Council Chambers

HOW TO WATCH EPTV Live Cable Broadcast Comcast – SD 16, HD 813

Live Online edenprairie.org/CityTV facebook.com/CityOfEdenPrairie

ON THE COVER Edenbrook Conservation Area PHOTO CREDIT 2023 Photo Contest Finalist Pam Borgman

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KNelson@edenprairie.org 952-941-6613

Project of the Year!

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he City’s Duck Lake Road Improvement Project was recently named Project of the Year in the Structures category by the American Public Works Association (APWA) Minnesota chapter.

The roadway from Duck Lake Trail to Mallard Court was fully reconstructed, and the project also included a new bridge and fishing pier, enhanced stormwater management features, a new paved trail, and concrete curb and gutter.

The construction was largely completed in fall 2022 and there was a ceremonial ribboncutting event in June 2023.

Innovative construction techniques, significant environmental improvements and the City’s collaboration with the Riley Purgatory Bluff Creek Watershed District contributed to the project’s recognition.

Race Equity Initiative Progress

What to Do During Snow Emergencies

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hen the forecast indicates a snow accumulation of 2 inches or more, the City prepares for a Snow Emergency. When snow accumulation reaches 2 inches, a Snow Emergency is in effect; do not park on City streets until noon the next day. City crews work to keep roadways safe and passable throughout snow events and perform a full curb-to-curb cleanup when weather conditions allow.

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ince the City Council adopted the Race Equity Report in 2022, staff members have been implementing the report’s recommendations for integrating equity and inclusion principles into operations, projects and services.

Progress is documented on the City’s website and is compiled by the Race Equity Action Team, which is comprised of several employees representing each City department.

edenprairie.org/DEIProgress

edenprairie.org/Snow Life in the Prairie Winter 2024 3

CELEBRATING

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s we near the end of another year, please join us in celebrating some of the significant happenings that occurred in Eden Prairie in 2023.

The Parks and Recreation Department led a project to construct a new, state-of-the-art community building at Round Lake Park, which features rooftop solar, a green roof and geothermal design. The department also oversaw the addition of a new play area, cricket pitch and splash pad at Nesbitt Preserve Park.

The Fire Department continued to coordinate the City’s emergency management plan and responded to numerous medical, fire and special events. The department also conducted over 4,000 fire and life safety inspections, and issued building inspection permits for development projects valued at more than $190-million.

Eden Prairie residents and businesses will continue to have a reliable water supply with the construction of a new well in 2023. The Public Works Department also led the adoption of a new sustainable building standard which will significantly improve energy efficiency in new construction.

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The Police Department celebrated 50 years of service and commemorated the anniversary with special events and activities throughout the year. In conjunction with other west metro agencies, the department also introduced a Police Cadet Program to provide tuition assistance, paid learning opportunities and valuable mentorship to individuals interested in becoming police officers.

The Community Development Department launched two interactive, online tools — an updated Development Projects Map and a new Development Dashboard — to make it easier for the public to access information about proposed, current and completed projects in Eden Prairie.

The department also kicked off the Mayor’s Business Roundtable to enhance relationships between City officials and local business leaders.

The accomplishments we achieve would not be possible without the assistance of about 50 residents and more than 40 high school students who volunteer to serve on the City’s six advisory commissions. This year, commission members: • Provided support for the annual PeopleFest! Party and collaborated with City staff to conduct a survey about residents’ experiences living in Eden Prairie • Reviewed plans for two multi-family residential projects, four industrial projects and two single-family projects, in addition to several land-use applications

• Assisted City staff in developing a new Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Guide to provide a comprehensive look at the City’s natural environment and developed amenities • Began a project to document how the 1968 Comprehensive Plan shaped Eden Prairie and nominated the Eden Mill site for an historic designation

• Organized the City’s first garden tool swap and compost giveaway, and hosted workshops to help residents learn about home electrification and pollinator gardens

• Collaborated with the Metropolitan Airports Commission to address noise concerns and ensure compliance with agreed-upon aircraft weight limits at Flying Cloud Airport

On behalf of your elected officials and everyone who works for the City of Eden Prairie, thank you for allowing us the opportunity to serve you.

Sincerely,

Rick Getschow City Manager

Life in the Prairie Winter 2024 5

COMMUNITY PHOTO CONTEST WINNERS

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inners were chosen by the City’s Facebook followers. Congratulations and thank you to everyone who participated in the contest!

Meet Eden Prairie’s New Parks and Recreation Director

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hen Amy Markle accepted the role as Eden Prairie’s new parks and recreation director, she couldn’t wait to get started. She knew Eden Prairie — with its exceptional staff, facilities and programs — would allow her to build on her lifelong desire to bring people together.

Before coming to Eden Prairie in October, Markle served as the recreation services director for the City of Richfield where she was employed for 20 years. In her time at Richfield, Markle oversaw award-winning projects, led sustainability initiatives and spearheaded efforts to make significant improvements to the 150-acre Wood Lake Nature Center.

Markle earned her bachelor’s degree in resource management and biology from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, master’s degree in resource interpretation from Stephen F. Austin University and doctorate in education from the University of Missouri.

First Place “Knee Deep and Happy” Tina Kahn

I am eager to carry on the strong tradition of excellent customer service, programming and top-notch facilities that have made Eden Prairie into a world-class park system. It is an honor to have the opportunity to serve Eden Prairie, and I look forward to getting to know the community.

—Amy Markle

Second Place “Cheeseburger in Paradise” Sherry Herrmann

Third Place “Blue Moon Over Duck Lake” Deb Johnson

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Save Money, Schedule Home Energy Audit

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den Prairie homeowners who are Xcel Energy or CenterPoint Energy customers can learn how to save money on energy bills from a Home Energy Squad® visit. The team installs needed materials, inspects heating and cooling systems, and identifies ways to improve efficiency.

Schedule a visit now to ensure your home is ready for cold weather!

mncee.org/Home-Energy-Squad

Energy Assistance Available

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he State of Minnesota’s free Energy Assistance Program helps pay energy bills for eligible households. The program provides benefits of up to $1,400, plus additional support to respond to emergencies.

Both renters and homeowners can qualify. Eligibility is based on income and household size.

mn.gov/EnergyAssistance

Recycle Your Batteries

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oxic metals in batteries can hurt people and the environment if not disposed of properly. To recycle your batteries, take them to a Hennepin County drop-off facility in Bloomington or Brooklyn Park.

hennepin.us/BatteryRecycling

Reduce Salt Use this Winter

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alt used on roads and walkways pollutes local lakes, streams and wetlands, which negatively affects water quality. You can help protect Eden Prairie’s water resources by decreasing your salt usage.

Start by shoveling well and if you need salt, scatter it widely.

If the temperature is below 15 degrees, salt will not work so use sand instead. Finally, collect any undissolved salt and store it in an air-tight container for re-use.

pca.state.mn.us/Water

edenprairie.org/SustainableEP

Life in the Prairie Winter 2024 7

Mark Your Calendar Winter Blast Noon–4:30 p.m.

Staring Lake Park

City of Eden Prairie 8080 Mitchell Road Eden Prairie, MN 55344-4485

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID TWIN CITIES, MN PERMIT #4190

952-949-8300 TTY: 952-949-8399

Jan. 6

RESIDENTIAL POSTAL CUSTOMER

Eden Prairie Players Presents: Inherit the Wind 7 p.m. March 15–16; 22–23 2 p.m. March 17 and 24 PiM Arts High School

edenprairie.org/Calendar

Stop in today and save!

10 OFF

$

any $50 purchase

16508 W. 78th Street Next to Kowalski’s

968 Prairie Center Drive Next to Lunds & Byerlys

8108 Den Road 12312023

Across from Cub

One offer per customer. No cash value. Must present coupon to receive discount. Total pretax purchase after all other discounts must meet the minimum purchase requirement.

Offer expires Dec. 31, 2023.

Each year, profits generated from Eden Prairie Liquor operations help offset the costs of improvements to playgrounds and parks, as well as street and trail maintenance throughout the City.

Read Life in the Prairie articles in your language at edenprairie.org/News

Lea los artículos de Life in the Prairie en su idioma en edenprairie.org/News

Kaga akhri maqaallada Life in the Prairie luuqaddaada barta edenprairie.org/News Please consider the environment and recycle this publication.