Park Perspective - May 2019

Park Perspective May 2019

www.stlouispark.org

Follow the city’s strategic priorities In 2018, the St. Louis Park City Council adopted the following five strategic priorities. Look for the icons throughout this and future editions of the Park Perspective to read stories about how the city is working to meet these priorities.

St. Louis Park is committed to:

Fire Department Open House June 18, 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Being a leader in racial equity and inclusion in order to create a more just and inclusive community for all.

Continuing to lead in environmental stewardship.

Providing a broad range of housing and neighborhood-oriented development.

Providing a variety of options for people to make their way around the city comfortably, safely and reliably. reating opportunities to build social capital C through community engagement.

For city events, activities and news, visit www.stlouispark.org.

nextdoor.com @stlouispark

@stlouispark

@stlouispark

www.youtube.com/slpcable Sign up for email and text notifications:

www.stlouispark.org/sign-up

Make service requests or receive city information via the app

or visit www.mystlouispark.org.

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Twin Cities Permit No. 603

The Park Perspective is printed on 30 percent post-consumer recycled paper in an effort to meet the city’s environmentally preferable purchasing policy.

Fire Station 1, 3750 Wooddale Ave. S. Displays and demonstrations

For kids

• Kitchen safety

• Sparky the fire dog

• Fire extinguisher demonstration

• Squirt house

• Burn rooms/fire sprinkler demonstration

• Home Depot kids workshop

• Emergency preparedness

• Bouncy house

• Older adult safety

• Take pictures of your kids in “kid-sized” fire gear

• Hennepin County Medical Center ambulance

Food

• Hands-only CPR • Police squad car

• Hotdogs, cookies, chips, water

• Public works heavy equipment • Minnesota Safety Council • City departments

How to vote on a ranked-choice ballot.

Your next election is Nov. 5, 2019.

1st choice

2nd choice

3rd choice

• Rank up to three different candidates for each city office (mayor and city council).

• Your first choice is the candidate you would most like to see elected.

• Always vote left to right.

• Select one candidate in each column. If you wish to rank second and/or third choices, you will select them in the corresponding second and third columns on the ballot.

• Turn your ballot over to vote in school district races.

This is not an actual ballot, but a representation.

Mock election at Parktacular!

City elections staff will have a booth at the Parktacular Expo on June 15 from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. at Wolfe Park!

We will have a mock election, and volunteers will be available to help with voting questions. This is a great opportunity to learn about ranked-choice voting and show kids how to vote!

Check out our new videos explaining how ranked-choice voting works and what it means to make a ranked choice!

Candidate filing for the 2019 election is July 30 – Aug. 13.

View the videos and more information at www.stlouispark.org/vote.

File for office at city hall by submitting your completed form and petition and paying the filing fee.

Visit www.stlouispark.org/vote for more candidate information.

State of the Community is May 30 You’re invited to attend the St. Louis Park State of the Community event Thursday, May 30, 6 – 7:30 p.m. at the Recreation Outdoor Center (ROC), 3700 Monterey Drive.

This will be an outdoor event, so dress accordingly. In case of bad weather, the event will be moved indoors to The Rec Center.

Human Rights Award recipients recognized

Above: St. Louis Park police officers brought the community engagement vehicle to a Coffee with a Cop event in February.

Look for the community engagement vehicle in your neighborhood Be on the lookout for the city’s new community engagement vehicle! Fully equipped with audiovisual equipment, the vehicle will be used for city meetings and events throughout the city.

To request the community engagement vehicle at your neighborhood event, contact Darius Gray, community organizer, at dgray@stlouispark.org or 952.924.2184.

What’s new at the St. Louis Park Police Department • I n mid-April, police officers began using body-worn cameras to capture evidence from police-citizen contacts, to ensure accurate reports, to allow for transparency and accountability in policing, and to protect the civil rights of the community. Visit www.stlouispark.org/body-worn-cameras to learn more.

Sagal Abdirahman and Nadia Mohamed received the 2018 Human Rights Award, presented by the City of St. Louis Park Human Rights Commission, at the March 18 city council meeting. The Human Rights Award recognizes individuals, groups, organizations or businesses that have made an outstanding contribution toward increasing understanding and cooperation between people of different backgrounds in St. Louis Park.

Abdirahman and Mohamed have been very active in St. Louis Park and surrounding communities, helping improve understanding of the Muslim culture and connecting people through events, classes, conversations and relationship building. They were nominated for the award due to their continuous dedication, leadership in connecting and communicating across cultures, and ability to find new ways to build relationships in the community.

Both Abdirahman and Mohamed currently serve on the St. Louis Park Police Department’s Multicultural Advisory Committee (MAC) and volunteer with St. Louis Park High School’s High Achievement Program. Additionally, Abdirahman is a community service officer with the St. Louis Park Police Department.

• A police substation is now located at Knollwood Mall, joining locations at the Shoppes at West End and Excelsior & Grand. Substations provide a place for officers to write reports, meet citizens to investigate crime reports, hold community meetings and conduct other business.

Substations aren’t staffed according to a schedule; however, officers are encouraged to make frequent use of these facilities to engage with the community and be available to the public.

• T he police department is seeing a continued increase in calls involving mental health issues, which can include complex factors that are challenging to police officers. To help bring about the best possible outcomes, the department is leading an effort to engage other community stakeholders and resources in effectively addressing mental health incidents. The department is one of three agencies in Minnesota that have taken the International Association of Chiefs of Police One Mind pledge for addressing mental health concerns, and is making progress on the requirement commitments (theiacp.org/onemindcampaign). Other measures under consideration are training for all personnel involved in a response and its after effects; development and implementation of a follow-up program for mental health crisis calls; use of dispatch records to provide responders and dispatchers with relevant information; and formation of a workgroup to develop policies and procedures for mental health initiatives.

• T he police department will soon adopt a new policy for responding to reports of sexual assault. The goal is to provide maximum protection and support to victims of sexual assault or abuse through a coordinated program of law enforcement and victim services, with an emphasis on a victim-centered approach. St. Louis Park’s policy is based on a model policy developed by the Minnesota Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) earlier this year to help address the problem of under-reporting of sexual assault crimes to law enforcement, and to improve victim experience in reporting so that more people are encouraged to report.

• T he police department is one of 14 Minnesota law enforcement agencies featured in an online training course for police officers, True North Constitutional Policing, which provides thought-provoking content using real-world stories from local officers and community members. Topics include the historical and constitutional significance of protecting people’s freedoms and best practices for creating a culture of community respect.

Drop off unwanted medication at the police department

Mayor Jake Spano appointed to National League of Cities race equity, transit leadership positions St. Louis Park Mayor Jake Spano has been appointed to serve as co-vice chair of the National League of Cities (NLC) 2019 Race, Equity and Leadership (REAL) Council, and will co-chair the Transit Subcommittee as a member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Services (TIS) Federal Advocacy Committee.

REAL is NLC’s effort to help its members respond to racial tensions in their communities and address the historical, systemic and structural barriers that further inequity and racism in our nation’s cities. A focus on racial equity provides NLC the opportunity to align its unique strengths and resources across the organization to proactively prepare city leaders to apply a racial equity lens to policies, initiatives, programs and budgets.

As a member of the TIS Federal Advocacy Committee, Spano will co-chair the Transit Subcommittee, a position he previously held. This committee is responsible for developing NLC’s federal policy positions on issues involving transportation, including planning, funding, safety and security of public transit, streets and highways, aviation, railroads and ports.

As a member of both the REAL Council and the TIS Committee, Spano will play a key role in shaping NLC’s policy positions and advocating on behalf of America’s cities and towns – including St. Louis Park – before Congress, with the administration and at home.

The police department has joined Hennepin County’s coordinated medicine disposal program.

A drop box is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week in the police department lobby, 3015 Raleigh Ave. S., to dispose of household medicines, including prescription, over-the-counter and pet medicines. Medicines should be brought in their original containers. No ID is required, and the service is free. Visit www.hennepin.us/medicine for a list of accepted medicines and items that aren’t accepted.

Skateapalooza!

Carpenter Park, 4900 Hwy. 7 all Ages Professional skaters from 3rd Lair will be handing out free skate items, showing off their skills and offering free skate lessons! There will be food vendors, giveaways and a festive atmosphere.

DAY Th

FEE

DATE+TIME

July 11, 5 – 8 p.m.

Free; no registration required.

2

May 2019

Fishin’ with a Cop Wolfe Park, 3700 Monterey Drive

all youth Join St. Louis Park police officers for a fun day of fishing at Wolfe Park.

No need to bring a pole or bait – just show up!

• W ednesday, June 12, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

• W ednesday, July 10, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

• W ednesday, Aug. 21, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Questions? Call Officer Dennis Maki at 952.928.1438.

Fire chief receives Park Nicollet award At left, St. Louis Park Fire Department Chief Steve Koering was awarded the 2019 Park Nicollet Foundation Community Service Award by Elizabeth Warner, executive director, Park Nicollet Foundation.

Chief Koering’s award nomination read, in part, “He is an innovative and collaborative partner on numerous initiatives supporting Park Nicollet and Methodist Hospital patients and families...he has been instrumental in the design and implementation of our Good to Be Home Program, where firefighters make home visits to Methodist Hospital patients after hospital discharge.

Community-focused solution and care are Chief Koering’s cornerstone.” Congratulations Chief Koering!

Attend a hands-only CPR training session Learn what to do if someone’s heart stops beating with a hands-only CPR class, hosted by the St. Louis Park Fire Department. Classes take place at Fire Station 1, 3750 Wooddale Ave. S., for those ages 15 and over (an adult or guardian must be present with participants age 15 – 17).

There is a maximum of 15 participants per class, and minimum of five per class. The training isn’t a certification course; participants won’t qualify for a CPR certificate.

Planning a recreational fire?

Get a permit first.

The term recreational fire means “cooking fires and camp fires using charcoal or firewood for cooking or pleasure.” Fires used for debris disposal purposes are not considered recreational fires. Yard waste, including grass, leaves, branches, twigs; garbage and recycling must be disposed of through your garbage hauler or at the city’s brush drop-off site (see page 8 for updates on the brush drop-off site for this season).

Be a good neighbor In addition to following the recreational fire permit rules, consider your neighbors as well. Remember that smoke and the smell of smoke often carries into neighboring homes, even on calm days. Not everyone likes the smell of a campfire, especially inside their home, and it can be an irritant.

Young children, the elderly and people with asthma, lung or heart disease are especially vulnerable to smoke in the air. If you suspect an illegal burn, call 911 and let the fire department investigate and educate.

Recreation fire requirements Recreational fires within the City of St. Louis Park require a recreational fire permit, available at www.stlouispark.org/firepermit or at Fire Station 1, 3750 Wooddale Ave. S.

Sign up online at www.hocpr.eventbrite.com for one of the upcoming training dates:

• Recreational fires must be 25 feet away from any structure and 10 feet away from the property line.

• Wednesday, June 5, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.

• Only burn untreated, unpainted, clean, dry, aged firewood that is at least 1 inch in diameter.

• Fires that are unreasonably offensive or injurious to others as determined by the city will be required to be extinguished.

• Wednesday, July 10, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.

• Wednesday, Aug. 7, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.

If you have any questions, call Lieutenant Bob Hampton at 952.924.2599.

• Recreational fires are not allowed when winds are greater than 10 miles per hour or if the state has issued burning restrictions. Visit dnr.state.mn.us or pca.state.mn.us for details.

• Permit holder is responsible for conducting, controlling and extinguishing the fire. All fires must be extinguished completely to ensure there is no smoldering or potential for reigniting. Never leave a fire unattended and always have a garden hose or fire extinguisher nearby.

• Recreational fires are permitted Sunday – Thursday from 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. and on Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. – midnight.

For more information call 952.924.2595 during normal business hours.

There is a one-time fee of $25 for a lifetime permit for the current resident living at the property.

Fire safety at your home away from home Peer-to-peer hospitality services, such as Airbnb; vacation rentals by owner (vrbo); and other types of vacation rentals are not regulated in the same way as hotels. Requirements vary widely across jurisdictions. Act as your own safety advocate and know before you go.

Get inside! Get information!

Here are a few safety tips: • C heck for working smoke alarms in every sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area and on every level of the home.

• A floor plan should be posted with escape routes and exits and emergency contact information.

• B e sure everyone knows the address of the home where you’re staying.

• E nsure everyone staying in the home has identified two ways out of every room and how to escape in an emergency.

Visit bit.ly/2PiMOWb for a complete list of safety tips.

Look while you cook The kitchen is often at the very center of family life, but leave the cooking unattended and you could have a serious fire on your hands.

Cooking equipment was the cause of 45.1 percent of the 6,165 structure fires in the State of Minnesota in 2017. That’s 2,780 fires! Many of those fires start because people are not paying attention to what is cooking. While a few minutes away from the kitchen may not seem like much, that’s all it takes to start a fire.

When cooking, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends you keep an eye on what you fry, wear short sleeves or roll sleeves up, keep a pan lid or cookie sheet nearby to cover the pan if it catches on fire, and have a fire extinguisher available and know how to use it. Remember, if you have an oven fire, turn off the oven and keep the door closed until it is cool.

What to do when the outdoor emergency sirens sound As severe weather season begins, be aware that when sirens sound, they are for real emergencies and are designed to warn people who are OUTDOORS to seek immediate shelter. They are not designed to warn people who are indoors.

The siren sound is always the same, regardless of the type of emergency.

If the sirens sound, DO NOT call 911 to ask what’s going on. Seek shelter and turn on the TV or radio for information.

Sirens sound in St. Louis Park for three reasons: 1. A tornado warning has been issued by the National Weather Service, or a trained spotter saw a developing tornado in or near St. Louis Park.

2. S traight-line winds have been recorded in excess of 70 miles per hour.

3. T esting of emergency sirens takes place on the first Wednesday of the month at 1 p.m. All St. Louis Park sirens are checked by city staff for proper operation.

www.stlouispark.org

3

Historic Walker Lake update The City of St. Louis Park has been working with the residents, businesses and property owners in the Historic Walker Lake district for the past few years to find ways to revitalize the area, engage the community and attract visitors.

These efforts include a small area plan, new street design, branding and an activation plan.

Public improvements Over the next five years, there are a number of projects in the Historic Walker Lake area to improve streets, reconstruct alleys, build sidewalks and install bikeways.

This year’s project is to reconstruct Library Lane and the east portion of Walker Street. This project is anticipated to begin in summer 2019. The design includes road reconstruction, intersection improvements, sidewalks, stormwater improvements, utilities and street lights.

The majority of the street work is proposed to be completed in 2019 and 2020. These projects will be paid for using city funds; there are no proposed special assessments to individual property owners.

The recommended project does not include streetscape enhancements, which would require a special service district.

Streetscape enhancements will be discussed as a part of the small area planning effort.

Visit www.stlouispark.org/historic-walker-lake for updates.

All businesses will remain open during construction and access to businesses will remain open at all times.

Small area plan In October 2018, the city selected Asakura Robinson to complete a small area revitalization plan and design guidelines for the district. The process will wrap up towards the end of May 2019. The process included three neighborhood meetings and several business and property owner meetings. Visit www.stlouispark.org/historic-walker-lake for videos of the neighborhood meetings.

The outcomes include: • Development concepts and project ideas that enhance the area’s identity, activity and appeal

Get ready for the 2020 Census Every 10 years, the U.S. Census Bureau conducts a census to count or survey those living in the United States and the five U.S. territories. The results of the census help determine congressional representation and federal funding. The next census will be April 1, 2020.

How to get involved There are several opportunities for you to get involved with the 2020 Census.

St. Louis Park Complete Count Committee The City of St. Louis Park is forming a committee of trusted local leaders that want to help inform our residents about the 2020 Census and promote participation. The committee will meet regularly to coordinate their efforts.

If you are interested in joining the committee, contact Sean Walther at swalther@stlouispark.org or 952.924.2574.

Volunteer There are many ways you can help inform people about the census and promote participation. You could consider hosting an event, talking to your friends and neighbors, or attending a local event to help answer questions about the census.

• A parking analysis providing design, location, land use and policy recommendations • Design standards for future investment and development • Opportunities for public art and placemaking • An implementation plan Historic Walker Lake business district loan program offered The Historic Walker Lake business district loan program offers low-interest loans to new and existing businesses and property owners located in the Historic Walker Lake business district, with the goal of making it more affordable for small businesses to invest in this area.

How the program works • The Metropolitan Consortium of Community Developers (MCCD) or a private lender provides half the loan amount at market rate • The St. Louis Park Economic Development Authority matches up to $100,000 of the funds, at 2 percent interest (Minimum $10,000)

To learn more about volunteer opportunities, contact Sean Walther at swalther@stlouispark.org or 952.924.2574.

Work for the U.S. Census Bureau The U.S. Census Bureau is hiring for a variety of positions to help with the 2020 Census. To be eligible, you must be 18 years old, have a valid Social Security number and be a U.S. citizen. The pay rate for a census taker position in Hennepin County is $20 per hour.

Visit www.2020census.gov/en/jobs to learn more or apply online.

• Loan term up to 10 years (set by the MCCD or private lender) • 10 percent owner equity required • Applicants must meet certain credit requirements • Loan must be repaid • Applicants must meet with an Open to Business advisor throughout the term of the loan for continued business counseling Who can apply • All businesses located within the Historic Walker Lake business district.

• Applicant may be individual owners, partnerships, corporations, tenant operators, nonprofit organizations (on a case-by-case basis) or contract for deed partners.

• Leaseholders must provide written permission of the property owner.

How to apply and who to contact Visit www.stlouispark.org/business-financing to review the loan guidelines. To discuss the loan program and receive an application, call Rob Smolund, MCCD, at 612.843.3260, ext. 260. For more information, contact Julie Grove, economic development specialist, at jgrove@stlouispark.org or 952.924.2523.

2040 Comprehensive Plan finalized this spring The city has updated its comprehensive plan, an official document that guides the future of the City of St. Louis Park.

It sets forth policies and programs that govern land use, transportation, public facilities, economic development, housing and other areas of city government.

The 2040 plan builds on the Vision 3.0 foundation and integrates it into plan elements which shape the practical goals and strategies for the future of St. Louis Park. Visit www.stlouispark.org/slp2040 to view the draft plan, which will be finalized this spring.

2 44 May 2019

Workgroup reviewing crime-free, drug-free rental housing ordinance The St. Louis Park City Council selected 13 applicants for the crime-free, drug-free rental housing ordinance workgroup, which met for the first time in April.

The process to review and analyze the crime-free rental housing ordinance and report the outcome to the council is expected to take about six months.

Look for information on the city’s website and social media on community listening sessions where the public can provide input on the ordinance. If you have questions, contact Michele Schnitker, housing supervisor, at mschnitker@stlouispark.org or 952.924.2571.

Crosswalk safety for drivers and pedestrians

Minnesota State law is clear that pedestrians have the right of way at any marked crosswalk and at all intersections without marked crosswalks or stop lights. It is common for drivers to think they don’t need to yield to pedestrians unless they are at a signed and striped crosswalk; however, if someone is waiting to cross at any intersection drivers will need to yield to them.

Pedestrians: • B e aware that just because a driver sees you, it doesn’t mean they are going to stop. Pedestrians must remember to take charge of their own safety.

• A s you are getting ready to cross a road, do not step off the curb unless the vehicle approaching you has enough space to come to a complete stop.

• I f you are crossing a multi-lane road and a vehicle stops in the closest lane for you, stop at the end of that vehicle and look to be sure that any approaching vehicles in the other lanes stop for you as well.

Drivers: • Stay alert and look for potential pedestrians that may want to cross the road.

• Keep in mind that in low light conditions, pedestrians can be difficult to see.

• Anticipate pedestrians around schools and parks.

• When turning, look in all directions for pedestrians or bicyclists.

• W hen yielding to a pedestrian, stop far enough back so the pedestrian has good sight distance past you and drivers in other lanes can also see the pedestrian in time to stop.

• Do not block crosswalks while stopped or parked.

• B e aware that a stopped vehicle in front of you may be stopped for a pedestrian, so use caution when passing that vehicle.

How to use bikeways

With winter over and the snow melted away, you may have noticed some newer bike striping on the street.

Buffered bike lanes A buffered bike lane is like a regular bike lane but with a buffer space between the vehicle lane and bike lane. The purpose of the buffer is to provide extra space for bicyclists and to increase safety for all users of the road. A buffered bike lane is restricted to bike traffic except when drivers need to turn or enter or leave the roadway.

Drivers are not allowed to drive in the bike lane or buffered area, even to pass other vehicles. Whenever you cross a bike lane, check for bicylists – you must yield and let them pass before turning. You’ll find buffered bike lanes on 28th Street east of Louisiana Avenue, Shelard Parkway west of Ford Road and Texas Avenue south of 28th Street.

Crossbikes

Work starts on the Southwest LRT; Avenue CedarStation Lake Trail to close Louisiana Trees not shown in graphic to illustrate station details

Draft - Work in Proc Fall 2015

Construction of the Southwest Light Rail Transit (SWLRT) starts this month, with passenger service expected to start in 2023. The Cedar Lake Regional Trail will be closed in mid-May for 2 – 3 years. Visit www.swlrt.org to sign up for updates and to learn more about SWLRT. Keep an eye out for information on the construction schedule, proposed road closures and posted detours as construction begins.

May is Building Safety Month Building safety affects everyone, and modern, updated building codes minimize the risks of death, injury and property damage. The City of St. Louis Park is participating in the 39th annual Building Safety Month, a worldwide campaign presented by the International Code Council, its members and partners to promote building safety.

Building Safety Month raises awareness about critical safety issues from structural to fire prevention, plumbing and mechanical systems and energy efficiency.

St. Louis Park building inspectors will be at the St. Louis Park Home Depot, 5800 Cedar Lake Rd., on Thursdays from 3 – 6 p.m. during the month of May to answer questions about home improvement projects and building codes. Or, stop by city hall council chambers on May 21 from 5 – 7:30 p.m. with your building project plans to expedite the review process for approvals before the busy Memorial Day weekend.

Learn more about Building Safety Month at www.buildingsafetymonth.org or join the conversation on social media by using the hashtag #BuildingSafety365.

You can think of a crossbike like a crosswalk, but for people biking across an intersection. They are used to highlight locations where vehicles turn or merge across a bike lane. The crossbikes are colored green to draw further attention to them. When you are driving, check your blind spot for bicyclists when approaching an intersection with these markings. Regardless if a bike lane is green or not, drivers must stop and let a bicyclist pass before turning. When you bike across any intersection, use caution and assume motorists cannot see you. You’ll find crossbikes at the intersections of Texas Avenue and Highway 7, Texas Avenue and Minnetonka Boulevard and 28th Street and Louisiana Avenue.

For more information about bikeways, call the engineering department at 952.924.2656.

Cedar Lake Road construction set for this summer Cedar Lake Road between Kentucky and Quentin avenues will be under construction this summer as the city repairs pavement, installs bike lanes, improves major intersections, installs new watermain and repairs the railroad crossing.

Visit www.stlouispark.org/cedar-lake-road or text SLPMN CEDAR to 468311 for project updates.

Mobility sharing coming soon Mobility sharing – a transportation solution ideal for short-distance, point-to-point trips – often uses bikes or scooters that can be used within a specific service area. St. Louis Park recently passed an ordinance requiring mobility sharing services to be licensed before operating in the city, and limiting the number of licenses available. While the city is looking forward to working with a vendor to bring mobility sharing to St. Louis Park, it also hopes to avoid some of the issues seen in other cities such as abandoned devices and safety concerns. Visit www.stlouispark.org/mobility-sharing for more information, including how to report abandoned scooters or bikes.

2019 pavement management program underway This year’s pavement management program is underway in the Pennsylvania Park, Willow Park and the Eliot View neighborhoods. This project is included in the Capital Improvement Program, with improvements paid for using city funds rather than assessments to property owners.

Visit www.stlouispark.org/pavement-management to learn more about the project and sign up to receive project updates.

Keep drinking water safe with an approved backflow preventer If you have a plumbing fixture connected to the drinking water supply, you might have a cross-connection between the two. If so, you should also have a backflow preventer installed to ensure safe drinking water in your home and in the city water supply. Typical residential cross-connections include irrigation or lawn sprinkler systems, swimming pools or spas, laundry tubs, taps outside where garden hoses are attached (hose bibs) or attachments to garden hoses to apply weed killer or other chemicals.

Required by Minnesota State Plumbing Code, backflow preventers prevent contaminated water or chemicals from reaching your home drinking water supply in case of pressure loss in the water system. Pressure loss can occur during a watermain break, when firefighters connect hoses to a hydrant or during routine flushing of hydrants.

The city plans to implement a program to ensure that backflow preventers are tested after installation, then annually after that. To learn more about backflow preventers and how this new program may affect you, attend a meeting on June 3 from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. in St. Louis Park City Hall Council Chambers. For more information contact Dave Skallet, chief building official, at dskallet@stlouispark.org or 952.924.2586.

www.stlouispark.org

3 5

Climate Action Plan progress continues Work continues on the Climate Action Plan, adopted a year ago by the St. Louis Park City Council. The plan’s goal is to achieve carbon neutrality – a net zero carbon footprint – in St. Louis Park by 2040. Below are some of the events and initiatives planned to help advance the goals of the Climate Action Plan.

IPS Solar and Extra Space Storage solar ribbon-cutting Thursday, June 6, 10:30 a.m. – noon Extra Space Storage, 5051 Hwy. 7 Join us as we celebrate the completion of St. Louis Park's largest rooftop solar array! Extra Space Storage has been adding solar to their facilities since 2010, and this array will be the largest rooftop solar installation in St. Louis Park. Mayor Jake Spano, representatives from Extra Space Storage and project developer IPS Solar will be at the event. After the unveiling and roof tours, participants can gather at nearby Lilac Park for refreshments.

Parkway 25 receives LEED silver certification Parkway 25, the newly constructed mixed-used building at 4015 County Rd. 25, recently received Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) silver certification from the U.S. Green Building Council. LEED certification is a globally recognized symbol of sustainability achievement and is the most widely used green building rating system in the world. It provides a framework to create healthy, highly efficient and cost-saving green buildings.

LEED certification identifies Parkway 25 as a showcase example of sustainability and demonstrates the development’s leadership in transforming the building industry. Parkway 25 is one of five LEED certified developments in St. Louis Park, and the first LEED certified residential building in the city. St. Louis Park’s other LEED certified developments are Metropoint 600 Building, Kohl’s Knollwood, Excelsior & Grand and the Park Nicollet Cancer Center.

Breathe Clean, Electric SLP! Saturday, June 8, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Recreation Outdoor Center (ROC), 3700 Monterey Drive The St. Louis Park Environment and Sustainability Commission and Midwest EVOLVE, supported by the American Lung Association, present the opportunity to test-drive an electric vehicle, try out electric lawn equipment and learn about the many benefits of using electricity over gasoline.

Electric vehicle charging ordinance passed As part of the Climate Action Plan’s goal to reduce vehicle emissions by 25 percent by 2030, the St. Louis Park City Council has passed an ordinance that will help expand private electric vehicle charging infrastructure in addition to the public infrastructure the city is already adding. The ordinance sets the minimum number of parking spaces to be served with electric vehicle supply equipment, based on land use and number of parking spaces. The ordinance also includes design standards to ensure the safety and accessibility of electric vehicle charging facilities.

Solar panels added at Municipal Service Center The city will expand its existing 78-kilowatt solar panel array on the Municipal Service Center (MSC) this summer. This expansion will be done by St. Louis Park business Sundial Solar, and will add about 50 kilowatts of solar energy to the existing array. The expansion supports the city’s Climate Action Plan goal to achieve 100 percent renewable electricity by 2030.

Energy assistance available to low-income Minnesotans Do you need help with your energy bills? You may be eligible for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) administered through the Minnesota Energy Assistance Program (EAP). Households seeking EAP assistance should contact their local EAP service provider, which can be found by calling 1.800.657.3710 or visiting bit.ly/2Gbfj7y. The deadline to apply for funds is May 31, 2019.

EAP helps eligible households meet energy needs by:

Internet options available for residents The St. Louis Park City Council has for many years encouraged choice and competition for high-speed broadband service. As a result, many residents, depending on their location, have choices when it comes to internet service providers. Both US Internet and CenturyLink have offered internet services in recent years, in addition to Comcast. This year, US Internet plans to extend service to the southern area of the Sorensen Neighborhood. All of these providers are private companies and make their own decisions as to where and how they provide service.

For information about any of the three companies, visit their websites: www.centurylink.com, www.xfinity.com and www.fiber.usinternet.com.

Standard & Poor's re-affirms "AAA" bond rating for City of St. Louis Park In March 2019, independent bond rating agency Standard & Poor’s (S&P) re-affirmed its highest rating of “AAA” for the City of St. Louis Park. St. Louis Park is one of 26 cities in the state with this rating. Bond ratings are a reflection of the city’s financial strength and stability.

• Providing grants to pay energy bills • A ddressing no-heat crisis situations through payments and furnace repair or replacement • Providing referrals and advocacy

62

May 2019

The report highlighted the city’s very strong economy, management, budgetary flexibility and liquidity, in addition to its strong budgetary performance, debt and contingent liability position. With the top credit rating, the City of St. Louis Park receives the lowest possible borrowing costs on current and future debt issuances, and can refinance outstanding debt at lower interest rates.

Know your flood risk New Aquatic Park season pass!

New this year, a rec card will be issued for Aquatic Park season passes purchased, along with multiple sessions for Little Tot Drop-in and public ice skating purchased. This card replaces the individual punch cards previously used and can be renewed annually for Aquatic Park season passes. Visit stlouispark.maxgalaxy.net to purchase your Aquatic Park season pass!

If your property is near Minnehaha Creek, it may be subject to flooding. Call city staff at 952.924.2690 to find out the potential flood hazard for your property.

Various methods may be used to minimize flooding. If the floor level of your property is lower than the “base flood elevation� (elevation of the 100-year flood, based on the FEMA maps), consider elevating your structure, if possible. If a flood is imminent, property can be protected by sandbagging areas where water could enter living spaces. Also, move valuables and furniture to higher areas of the home to minimize damages.

Brochures about flood proofing and other mitigation measures are available at Hennepin County Public Libraries, including the St. Louis Park Library, 3240 Library Lane. Visit www.stlouispark.org/floodplain for more information on flood hazards, risks and building responsibly.

Visit city website for habitat restoration, invasive species management info The city recognizes the importance of maintaining and restoring the natural resources that exist within the city and has created and supports a number of programs and practices to help promote habitat restoration, including the buckthorn management program, pollinator and bee-friendly initiatives and addressing the invasive Emerald Ash Borer. Through these efforts and others, habitats that have been identified as disturbed can be restored to ensure a functioning, natural ecosystem is in place.

You can also help! The city recently added information to its website to provide residents with resources on how they can support habitat restoration and invasive species management.

Visit www.stlouispark.org/habitat-restoration to learn more and see how you can help!

Construction starts at Westwood Hills A groundbreaking event took place Monday, April 22, to mark the start of construction of the new interpretive center at Westwood Hills Nature Center. Construction started in early May, with completion scheduled for 2020.

While the playground near the lower parking lot is unavailable during construction, many other activities will remain available. Explore the 3.5 miles of trails, host a birthday party, participate in a variety of nature programming or visit the current interpretive center. During construction, parking will be on West Franklin Avenue, with a trail at that main entrance leading to the current interpretive center.

Visit www.stlouispark.org/whnc/new-interpretive-center or text SLPMN WHNC to 468311 for project updates.

Financial assistance available to help manage stormwater runoff Stormwater runoff is created when melting snow or rain flows over roads, driveways, roofs and other paved surfaces that do not allow the water to soak into the ground. As the water drains into storm sewers, it can pick up many different pollutants including sediment, pesticides, phosphorus and trash, all of which can eventually make it into lakes and rivers if untreated.

The Rainwater Rewards program was created to help homeowners control and manage the city’s stormwater runoff by providing financial and technical assistance to residents who implement stormwater management projects on their property. Eligible projects can include rain gardens, permeable pavement, tree plantings, rain barrels and other innovative stormwater management practices.

Residents interested in participating in the program must complete the Rainwater Rewards program application before beginning any work on their property. To learn more about the program or submit an application, visit www.stlouispark.org/rainwater-rewards.

www.stlouispark.org

7 3

ee information: Visit www.stlouispark.org/cleanup Saturday, June 9, 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. r call Waste Management at 763.783.5423.

line up on Meadowbrook Rd./Oxford St. Traffic must head east on Oxford St. upon exiting the event.

•• Fluorescent bulbs* and LEDs:laptops*, Limit 10 bulbs per vehicle.

Must and be intact/unbroken.

Desktop computer towers*, notebooks*, keyboards mice • Batteries: Household only, NO vehicle or lead acid batteries.

Please place clear tap • Mobile devices: Cell phones*, tablets*, MP3 players*, cords, chargers Municipal Service Center both (+) and (-) terminals of batteries or individually seal in a clear plastic • Scrap metal: Grills, steel shelving, bed frames, file cabinets, gutters, etc. bag. tems7305 collected charge OxfordforSt.,a St. Louis Park • Textiles: Clean and items only.must All clothing (usable, stained), including c (Lawn mowers anddry snow blowers be drained of alltorn, fluids.)

Charged by item Municipal Service Center, 7305 Oxford St. shoes, linens, towels and fabric scraps.

• Paper for shredding: Limit five grocery-sized bags per vehicle. Paper is shredded Payment Cash and checks only.

• Tires* – $2 options: (on rim $3) Contact Waste Management with fee questions 763.783.5423.

• Household goods forRemove reuse: Dishes, cookware, collectables, toys small furnit onsiteatand recycled. large binder clips. Staples/paper clipsand are OK. Fee information: www.stlouispark.org/cleanup • Mattresses andVisit box springs – $20 (end tables, coffee tables, shelves, pictures, lamps).

Only items in good condition Contact public works with general event questions at 952.924.2562 or visit www.stlouispark.org/cleanup.

• Fluorescent bulbs* and LEDs: Limit 10 bulbs per vehicle. Must be intact/unbroken.

• Appliances* and microwaves – $15 or call Waste Management at 763.783.5423.

• Batteries: Household only, NO vehicle or lead acid batteries. Please place clear tape o • Stuffed chairs, sofas, sectionals – $15 - $40 both (+)for and (-) terminals of batteries or individually seal in a clear plastic bag.

Items collected for a charge ItemsNot collected accepted free Westbound traffic on Oxford Street will not • Textiles: Clean and dry items only. All clothing (usable, torn, stained), including coat • Bicycles in any condition Charged by item Items without individual Garbage sod, rocks be allowed to turn into the fees eventare and must Concrete shoes, linens, towels and fabricDirt, scraps.

• Holiday light strings and extension cords • Box/tube TVs* and CRT monitors* $35 charged by volume per vehicle ($12 $34) Yard waste, tree debris Recyclables line up on Meadowbrook Rd./Oxford St. Business waste • Tires* – $2 (on rim $3) • Household goods for reuse: Dishes, cookware, keyboards collectables, toys and small furniture Saturday, Junefor9,free 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.

• Desktop computer towers*, laptops*, notebooks*, and mice Items collected • Large Traffic musttrash head items: east onBroken/unusable Oxford St. upon Household hazardous waste (paint, chemicals, automotive fluids, etc.)

• Mattresses and box springs – $20 • Mobile devices: phones*, players*, cords, (end tables,Cell coffee tables,tablets*, shelves, MP3 pictures, lamps).

Onlychargers items in good condition.

•• Bicycles anyand condition Municipal Servicein Center exitingitems, the event. including chairs, tables, Appliances* microwaves – $15 Other recycling options for TVs/monitors: • Scrap metal: Grills, steel shelving, bed frames, file cabinets, gutters, etc.

Holiday strings and extension cords 7305 •Oxford St.,light St. Louis Park lawn/patio furniture, toys, • Stuffed chairs, sofas, sectionals – $15 - $40 (Lawn mowers and snow blowers must be drained of all fluids.)

• Desktop computer towers*, laptops*, notebooks*, keyboards and mice Household hazardous waste can be brought to Hennepin County’s event – Hennepin County drop-offfaxfacility: storage Printers, scanners, machines – $10 Not accepted • Paper for shredding: Limit five grocery-sized bags per vehicle. Paper is shredded •• Mobile devices: Cell phones*, tablets*, MP3 players*, cords,containers. chargers Payment options: Cash and checks only. at the St.recycled.

Louis Park Middle School, June 15 and 16, 9 a.m.

4 p.m. $10 each, limit five persteel year trash items be without individual fees are VCR/DVD players, stereos, speakers, s Smaller •• Scrap metal: Grills, shelving, bed frames, fileItems cabinets, gutters, etc. should onsite and Remove large binder clips.

Staples/paper clips –are OK. Garbage Dirt, sod, rocks Concrete Fee information: Visit www.stlouispark.org/cleanup placed in your curbside cart.

(Lawn mowers and snow blowers must be drained of all fluids.)

• Box/tube TVs*miscellaneous and CRT monitors* $35 blenders and household bulbs* and LEDs: 10 bulbs pertree vehicle.

Must be intact/unbroken.

For Recyclables more information, visitLimit www.hennepin.us/collectionevents or call 612.348.37 charged by volume per vehicle ($12 - $34) • Fluorescent Yard waste, debris Business waste Waste Management pickup: or –call Management atcurbside 763.783.5423.

•Waste Paper for shredding: vehicle.

Paper is shredded • Batteries: Household only, NO vehicle or lead acid batteries.

Please place clear tape on electronics – $5 Limit five grocery-sized bags•per Remodeling debris, scrap wood • Large trash items: Broken/unusable Household hazardous waste (paint, chemicals, automotive fluids, etc.) $25onsite per pickup, call to schedule and recycled.

Remove large binder clips.

Staples/paper clips are OK. both (+) and (-) terminals of batteries or individually seal in a clear plastic bag.

TVs and Items •collected formonitors* a charge items, including chairs, tables, recycling options for TVs/monitors: • Other Fluorescent bulbs* and LEDs: Limit 10 bulbs per vehicle. Must be intact/unbroken.

• Textiles: Clean and dry items only. All clothing (usable, Items collected for free torn, stained), including coats, s Flat panel – $5 Charged by item Westbound traffic on Oxford Street will not lawn/patio furniture, toys, • Batteries: Household only, NO vehicle or lead acid batteries.

Please Spring place clearCleanup tape on • Bicycles in any condition 2018 Day shoes, linens, towels and fabric scraps. be allowed to turn into the event and must sHennepin Box/Tube/CRT 27 inches or lessor–individually $25 Household hazardous waste can •beHoliday brought to Hennepin County’s event –both County drop-off facility: light strings and extension cords (+) and (-) terminals of batteries sealstorage in a clear plastic bag.

• Tires* – $2 (on rim $3) containers. line up on Meadowbrook Rd./Oxford St. Household goods for reuse: Dishes, cookware, collectables, andnotebooks*, small furniture *These items are illegal toover throw ininches the garbage.

Saturday, June 9, 8 a.m.

- 1 p.m. • Traffic • Desktop computer towers*,toys laptops*, keyboards a s Box/Tube/CRT 27 – $45 must head east on Oxford St. upon • Textiles: Clean and dry items only.

All clothing (usable, torn, stained), including coats, • Mattresses and boxfive springs – $20 at the St. coffee Louis Park Middle School, Junelamps).

15 and 16, 9 a.m.

–good 4 p.m. $10 each, limit per year • Mobile devices: Cell phones*, tablets*, MP3 players*, cords, ch (end tables, tables, shelves, pictures, Only items in condition.

Municipal Service Center exiting the event. shoes, linens, andDisposal fabric scraps.

• Scrap metal: Grills, steel shelving, bed frames, file cabinets, gutt • Appliances* and towels microwaves – $15 Visit Hennepin County’s Green Guide at www.hennepin.us/greendisposalguide for other reuse recycling disposal options.

7305 Oxford St., St. Louis Park For moreand information, visit www.hennepin.us/collectionevents or calldrained 612.348.3777.

Other recycling options for TVs/monitors: (Lawn mowers blowers of all fluids.)

• Household goods for reuse: Dishes, collectables, toys and small furniture Westbound trafficand onsnow Oxford Streetmust will be not be – Waste Management curbside–pickup: • Stuffed chairs, sofas, sectionals $15cookware, - $40 • Paper for shredding: Limit five grocery-sized bags per vehicle. P • Remodeling debris, scrap wood Payment options: Cash and checks only.

–(end Hennepin County drop-off facility: $10 each, limit five per year coffee shelves, pictures, lamps). Only items in good condition. allowed to turn into the eventlarge and binder must line upStaples/paper on Not accepted onsite and recycled.

Remove clips. cl $25 tables, per pickup, calltables, to schedule Fee information: Visit www.stlouispark.org/cleanup

Spring cleanup day – Saturday, June 8, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.

2018 Spring Cleanup Day

– Waste Management curbside pickup: $25 per pickup, call to schedule •Meadowbrook Fluorescent bulbs* and LEDs: Limit Traffic 10 bulbs per head vehicle. Must be Road/Oxford Street. must Items without individual fees atare or call Waste Management 763.783.5423.

Garbage Dirt, sod, rocks Household Concrete • Batteries: only, NO vehicle or lead acid batteries. Pleas east on Oxford Street whenofexiting theor event.

• Box/tube TVs* and CRT monitors* $35 both (+) and (-) terminals batteries individually charged by Items volume per for vehicle ($12 - $34) Yard waste, tree debris Recyclables Not accepted collected a charge Business wasteseal in a clea • Textiles: Clean and dry items only.

All clothing (usable, torn, stai Charged by item • Large trash items: Broken/unusable Household hazardous waste (paint, chemicals, automotive fluids, etc.)

Can’t attend thetowels cleanup needscraps. to dispose of items Garbage sod, rocks shoes, linens, andor fabric Concrete *These items are illegal to throwDirt, in the garbage.

• Tires* – $2 (on rim $3) •weHousehold goods for reuse: Dishes, cookware, collectables, Yard waste, tree debris items, including chairs, tables, don’t accept?

Check out the Hennepin County Green toys Business waste OtherRecyclables recycling options for TVs/monitors: • Mattresses and box springs – $20 (end tables, coffee tables, shelves, pictures, lamps). Only items Household waste Disposal (paint, chemicals, automotive etc.) and Disposal Guide at www.hennepin.us/greendisposalguide •fluids, Appliances* microwaves – $15 lawn/patio furniture, toys, Visit Hennepinhazardous County’s Green Guide at www.hennepin.us/greendisposalguide for other reuse recycling and disposal options.

• Stuffed chairs, sofas, sectionals – $15 - $40 Household hazardous waste can be brought for information and to findCounty’s disposal options. to Hennepin event – Hennepin County drop-off facility: storage containers. * These items are illegal to throw in the garbage.

Not accepted atItems thewithout St. Louis Parkfees Middle School, June 15 and 16, 9 a.m.

– 4 p.m. individual are $10 each, limit five per year Garbage Dirt, sod, rocks • Box/tube event TVs* and CRT monitors* $35 Household hazardous waste can be brought to Hennepin County’s – Waste curbside at theManagement St. Louis Park Middlepickup: School, June 15 and 16, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

• Remodeling debris, scrap wood Other recycling options for TVs/monitors: $25 pickup, call to schedule For per more information, visit www.hennepin.us/collectionevents or call 612.348.3777.

Year-round disposal options for common items Note: Some disposal options may have a fee.

Lightbulbs

– Hennepin County drop-off facility: $10 each, limit five per year

– Waste Management curbside pickup:

*These arePlus illegal to throw the garbage.

• Bitems atteries Bulbs, 5717inExcelsior Blvd., St. Louis Park (CFLs, fluorescent tubes, $25 per pickup, call to schedule

charged by volume per vehicle ($12 - $34)

Yard waste, tree debris

Recyclables For•more information, visit www.hennepin.us/collectionevents or call 612.348.3777.

Large trash items: Broken/unusable Household hazardous waste (paint, chemicals, automotive fluid items, including chairs, tables, lawn/patio furniture, toys, storage containers.

Household hazardous waste can be brought to Hennepin Coun at the St. Louis Park Middle School, June 15 and 16, 9 a.m. – 4 For more information, visit www.hennepin.us/collectionevents o

Household hazardous waste collection event • Remodeling debris, scrap wood

June 14 and 15, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

incandescent, halogen) St.recycling Louis Park and Middle School options.

Visit Hennepin County’s Green Disposal Guide at www.hennepin.us/greendisposalguide for other reuse disposal *These items are illegal to throw in the garbage.2025 Texas Ave. S. (enter off West 22nd Street) • Home Depot, 5800 Cedar Lake Rd., St. Louis Park (CFL only) reuse recycling and disposal options.

Electrical cords and holiday lights

Visit Hennepin County’s Green Disposal Guide at www.hennepin.us/greendisposalguide for other reuse recycling and disposal options.

• Express Metals, 8094 Excelsior Blvd., Hopkins • Tech Dump, 825 Boone Ave. N., Golden Valley

Batteries • Hennepin County Library, 3240 Library Ln., St. Louis Park (no lead acid) • St. Louis Park Municipal Service Center, 7305 Oxford St. (no lead acid)

Hennepin County organizes free collection events throughout the year to give residents more convenient local disposal options for their household hazardous wastes.

Household hazardous wastes including paint, solvents, pesticides, antifreeze and other chemicals, plus batteries (including lead acid) and fluorescent bulbs will be accepted.

Electronics will NOT be accepted.

Visit www.hennepin.us/collectionevents for details and additional events.

• B atteries Plus Bulbs, 5717 Excelsior Blvd., St. Louis Park (most types including lead acid)

Brush drop-off closed for 2019, alternative in Minnetonka

• E xpress Metals, 8094 Excelsior Blvd., Hopkins (lead acid ONLY)

Paper for shredding

The city’s brush drop-off site is closed for the 2019 season due to the Cedar Lake Road construction project. A temporary drop-off option is being offered to residents through a partnership with the City of Minnetonka.

• W atch the city’s social media, @stlouispark, and website, www.stlouispark.org, for free events sponsored by area businesses.

• M any office supply stores and shipping companies also offer shredding service.

Medications • St. Louis Park Police Department, 3015 Raleigh Ave. S. • Walgreens, 540 Blake Rd. N., Hopkins

Paint (Limit 5 gallons per visit; no aerosols) • Hance Hardware, 903 Hopkins Center, Hopkins • Hirshfields, 452 11th Ave. S., Hopkins • S herwin-Williams, 5425 Opportunity Center, Minnetonka

Scrap metal • R esidents with city service may put small items out at the curb in a box or container NEXT to your recycling cart. DO NOT put scrap metal in your cart.

See the city website for size limits.

• Express Metals, 8094 Excelsior Blvd., Hopkins

Location: Minnetonka Public Works, 11522 Minnetonka Blvd. (west entrance) Dates and hours: Now – Oct. 26, 2019 Mondays and Tuesdays, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Saturdays, 7 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Site closed: Memorial Day (May 27) Labor Day (Sept. 2)

There is no charge for St. Louis Park residents. A Minnesota ID, driver’s license or utility bill is required.

Materials accepted: Branches/tree limbs up to 8 feet in length (no diameter restrictions), brush, logs Unacceptable materials: Rocks, root balls or stumps, dirt/soil, trash, metal, concrete, fences, lumber or wood scraps, yard waste.

Note: Leaves and grass are not accepted from St. Louis Park residents at the temporary drop-off location. Set these items out for curbside collection, along with sticks and small branches (less than 4 feet in length or 4 inches in diameter).

The free shredded mulch, screened black dirt and compost that is typically stored at the site will not be available this year due to the construction.

Questions? Visit www.stlouispark.org/brush-drop-off or call public works at 952.924.2562.

Saturday, June 15 | 1 – 6 p.m. | Wolfe Park, 3700 Monterey Drive

Fun for everyone!

Ecotacular – USE AD from P&R brochure page 7)

Enjoy environmentally friendly activities and demonstrations. www.stlouispark.org/events @stlouispark

Free clothing swap Monday, July 29, 6 – 8 p.m.

Central Community Center gym, 6300 Walker St. Bring your clean and washed unwanted items and swap them for new-to-you treasures.

Participants can bring and take as many items as they would like. Clothing, shoes and accessories of all styles and sizes are welcome. No blankets, linens or pillows. This is a free event open to all ages and genders!