Park Perspective: February 2023

February 2023

Follow the city’s strategic priorities

The St. Louis Park City Council adopted the following five strategic priorities in 2018. Look for the icons throughout the Park Perspective to read stories about how the city is working to meet these priorities.

St. Louis Park is committed to:

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.

Creating opportunities to build social capital through community engagement.

Visit www.stlouisparkmn.gov for city events, activities and news. @stlouispark nextdoor.com @stlouispark @stlouispark www.youtube.com/slpcable

In December, Bryan Kruelle assumed official duties as the police chief of the St. Louis Park Police Department. Kruelle had been deputy police chief for the past three years and was selected for the top role following the retirement of Chief Mike Harcey.

“In Deputy Chief Kruelle, we found the candidate who demonstrates deep integrity and character, practices honest and open communication, values diversity and provides accountability,” said City Manager Kim Keller. “These are all qualities identified by the community as important for the police chief position. I am confident that Chief Kruelle will continue to move the department forward and cement the reputation of the St. Louis Park Police Department as one that centers all of its communities in its operational and policy decisions.”

“I’m thrilled at the selection of Chief Kruelle to lead our police department into the future,” said Mayor Jake Spano. “I’m also pleased but not surprised that his grounding in community-oriented policing, leadership skills and commitment to excellence separated him from all others in a national search for our next chief.”

Make service requests or receive city information via the app or visit www.mystlouispark.org.

Chief Kruelle has been with the St. Louis Park Police Department for 18 years. As deputy police chief, he oversaw the patrol, investigations and administration divisions. He played a critical role in developing and implementing the department’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as helping the department navigate a very challenging period in law enforcement. This included updating departmental systems for hiring, training, reporting, outreach, policies and procedures, crime response, wellness, partnership building, and race equity and inclusion.

Nominate an outstanding community member for an award!

Do you know a St. Louis Park community member who has made outstanding contributions and dedicated their time to improve the St. Louis Park community? If so, consider nominating them for the outstanding community member award. Requirements include:

• The community member may be nominated by anyone. Nominations may be submitted at any time.

• Community members include residents or non-residents who live, work or volunteer in St. Louis Park and contribute significantly to the city.

• The nomination must include a statement explaining why the individual should receive the award. Supporting documents may be attached, but they aren’t required. Examples of supporting documents include letters of support, news articles, awards or other information that may be helpful to those reviewing the nomination.

Nominations may be submitted online by 4:30 p.m. April 14, 2023, at bit.ly/slpoutstanding. If you can’t submit the nomination online, call 952.924.2632.

www.stlouisparkmn.gov

Prior to his role as deputy chief, Kruelle served as both the lieutenant of the investigative and administrative divisions in separate assignments; as a sergeant in both the patrol and investigative divisions; as an investigator; and as a patrol officer. Before pursuing his dream of working in policing and joining the St. Louis Park Police Department, Kruelle worked in accounting and finance.

Kruelle earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Valparaiso University and a master’s degree in public and nonprofit administration from Metropolitan State University. He is currently pursuing a doctorate in leadership from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. Kruelle is a board member for Relate Counseling Center; serves as the Hennepin County Chiefs of Police representative to the Hennepin Justice Integration Program; and is a field commander for the West Command Mobile Field Force.

“I am honored to be selected as police chief, and I look forward to working with the residents of St. Louis Park, as well as the exceptional officers, civilian staff and volunteers that I’ve known for the past 18 years,” said Chief Kruelle. “My goals are to strengthen the department’s relationship with the community, create a safe community for all and continue to build a police culture that is reflective of our community’s values and ideals.”

After previous St. Louis Park Police Chief Mike Harcey announced his retirement effective Dec. 16, 2022, the city conducted a community engagement survey to determine what qualities were desired in the next police chief. Results from the 400-plus responses were used to create the police chief position profile and job description. Interview panels included senior city staff, police department personnel and community members.

Do you have a project or idea and need some help or advice?

At this free event, you will find:

Our experts offer free, one-on-one consultations to help turn your ideas into reality! Bring ideas, photos, sketches and questions, and our experts will help you determine the best for your project. There’s no cost or obligation, just experts willing to help.

• More than 75 exhibitors, including contractors and architects

• Free consultations

• Remodeling seminars and workshops

homeremodelingfair.com

Pictured: Chief Bryan Kruelle

Reminder: Turn on headlights, taillights

As we continue to navigate winter weather and look forward to spring, the police department reminds drivers that according to Minnesota statute 169.48 (vehicle lighting), headlights and taillights must be illuminated when visibility is impaired by unfavorable weather conditions or other factors that can affect seeing people and vehicles on a roadway. Automatic forward-facing driving lights and parking lamps on their own don’t meet this requirement. Check your headlights and taillights to be sure they’re working, and turn them on anytime visibility is low.

Be a Hydrant Hero

The St. Louis Park Fire Department asks homeowners and businesses with fire hydrants on or near their property to shovel the snow around the fire hydrant after each snowfall.

Visit www.hydranthero.org to adopt a hydrant. Choose a hydrant, click on the “Adopt me” link and fill out the registration form – you can even give your hydrant a name! Call 952.924.2171 for more information.

Join the St. Louis Park Police Explorer and Reserve programs

Explorer program

The St. Louis Park Police Explorers volunteer program offers youth ages 14 to 21 a chance to learn firsthand the duties and responsibilities of police officers. Explorers meet every Tuesday evening throughout the year to participate in role playing, class study and social exercises related to a career in law enforcement. Explorers also volunteer at local community events with the police officers. If you or someone you know is interested in attending a meeting or learning more about becoming an explorer, contact Officer Caroline Bjorge at cbjorge@stlouisparkmn.gov or Officer Madeline Turnquist at mturnquist@stlouisparkmn.gov.

Reserves

The St. Louis Park Police Department Reserves unit is made up of 15 – 25 volunteers who range in age from 20 to over 60. Every year, they donate roughly 1,000 hours of volunteer services to assist with night patrols and city events, including the Fourth of July festival, National Night Out, school carnivals, D.A.R.E. graduations and more. If you are interested in applying or would like more information about the program, contact Officer Thomas Martinez at tmartinez@stlouisparkmn.gov.

Emerald ash borer inspections underway

Emerald ash borer (EAB) is now widespread in St. Louis Park. City staff trained as Minnesota tree inspectors will be out this winter and early spring marking ash trees infested with EAB for removal. By city ordinance, the city marks both public and private trees that need to be removed. Trees with EAB are typically identified by light-colored patches of damaged bark left by woodpeckers eating EAB larvae. Healthy or lightly infested trees can be protected from EAB with injections. Rainbow Treecare provides injections at a reduced rate for St. Louis Park residents. Visit www.stlouisparkmn.gov/eab for more information.

Annual tree sale orders start March 1

Help increase our city’s tree canopy by adding trees to your landscape! Starting March 1, visit www.treetrust.org to order and pay for your trees as part of the city’s annual tree sale. Trees are $35 each; a maximum of three trees per property may be purchased. Preview of this year’s available trees will begin mid-February.

Tree sale pickup will be Saturday, May 6, from 8 a.m. – noon or Monday, May 8, from 5 – 7 p.m. at the Municipal Service Center, 7305 Oxford St.

Need a new tree but not ready to plant it yourself? You are in luck! The city now offers a full-service tree sale option where the city covers a portion of the planting costs. Total cost can be as low as $35 depending on your location in the city. The cost share amount is higher for those who have had an ash tree removed due to emerald ash borer. Visit treecanopyslp.myshopify.com to find out more and reserve your tree today!

Don’t flush wipes! Change your clock, change your batteries

Did you know that disposable wipes are not flushable? Don’t flush disposable wipes of any kind down the toilet, even if they claim to be “flushable” or safe for toilets. The only items that should be flushed down a toilet are human waste and toilet paper. Disposable wipes don’t break down like toilet paper and will cause sewer backups in your private sewer service and/or city sewer mains, requiring costly and time-consuming repairs.

Highway 100/County Road 3

Groundwater Plume update

In November, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) published the community involvement plan for the Highway 100/County Road 3 Groundwater Plume site in St. Louis Park and Edina, based on community interviews that took place in August 2022. The EPA plans to host an information session in early 2023 for those interested in forming a community advisory group.

Background

In 2020, the EPA added the Highway 100/County Road 3 Groundwater Plume site in St. Louis Park and Edina to its Superfund program. The City of St. Louis Park remains in full support of this action to ensure the ongoing health and safety of residents and that those who caused the contamination are held responsible. Since the early 2000s, the City of St. Louis Park has been working successfully with the EPA and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency to ensure the safety of the city’s drinking water and to protect residents from any adverse effects of this contamination. Visit bit.ly/Hwy100-CR3plume for more information.

Citywide hydrant flushing starts May 7

City crews are scheduled to flush the watermains in St. Louis Park starting Sunday, May 7, weather permitting. Flushing hours will mainly be from 8 p.m. – 6 a.m. and should be complete by Friday, May 12.

Watermain flushing is done each spring to loosen normal mineral buildup inside underground watermains. Crews flush the watermains by opening fire hydrants, so don’t be alarmed if you see water gushing from hydrants while a city truck is nearby.

The flushing process will take five days to complete citywide. Any one neighborhood or area won’t be affected for the entire week. Once a watermain is flushed, city crews will move to the next one. Unfortunately, it’s not possible to specify exact dates and times crews will be in specific neighborhoods, which is why the five-day window is published. Residents can check to see if watermains have been flushed in their neighborhood by visiting bit.ly/WMflushing to view a map.

While water has improved color and taste after watermain flushing, the process can temporarily discolor water due to loose iron particles. Iron naturally occurs in groundwater and isn’t harmful to your health. If you experience discolored water, take the following precautions.

• Turn your water softener off or set it to “bypass” for the time period watermain flushing is scheduled.

Spring street sweeping

The city will start spring street sweeping in March and continue with a second round of sweeping in May after the trees have leaves.

Hours of sweeping will be 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday – Friday. The city does not post “no parking” signs for street sweeping. However, the city has created a street sweeping map to show what streets have been swept and estimated sweeping dates by neighborhood. Visit bit.ly/street-sweeping to view the map.

As always, the estimated dates can be affected by the weather, current maintenance needs or emergencies that staff need to address.

Citizens’ Police Academy returns this spring

The Citizens’ Police Academy is open to adults 18 and over who live or work in St. Louis Park. Classes will be held on Wednesdays, March 18 – May 27 (no class April 1), from 6 – 9 p.m. at the St. Louis Park Police Department, 3015 Raleigh Ave. S. Twenty applicants will be accepted and must be able to attend all 10 sessions. Register online at www.stlouispark.org/police-academy Note: Interested in learning about the city overall? See pages 1 and 2 for youth and adult opportunities.

• During this time period, don’t do laundry without first checking to see if your water is rust colored. Check water by running the tap. If it’s rust colored, don’t run your washing machine until you’ve cleared the water. To clear your water, run the cold water tap in your laundry tub until it runs clear, then do your laundry. If your laundry is stained by the water during this time period, keep the laundered items wet and call public works at 952.924.2562. We will deliver a chemical that will remove the stains.

• Each morning during this time period, run the cold water tap to flush your household system of any discolored water sitting in the pipes. If tap water becomes discolored during the day, run the cold water tap until the water clears again.

If you have questions, call public works at 952.924.2562.

Residential brush drop-off site

Yard waste collection starts April 3

During residential yard waste season, yard waste is collected every week on the same day as your garbage. Set out yard waste by 7 a.m. to ensure collection. If you believe your yard waste was missed, call Waste Management at 763.783.5423.

There is no additional cost for yard waste collection during residential yard waste season; it is included in your solid waste collection rate. Yard waste includes garden waste, grass clippings, leaves, weeds, wood chips, twigs and branches.

Set yard waste out for collection in one of these ways:

• Use your own reusable container. The container should be sturdy, weigh 40 pounds or less when filled and have handles so it can be lifted by a single person. Yard waste can be placed in the container loose (not bagged). - The city provides yard waste stickers to mark your reusable containers. These can be picked up at city hall, 5005 Minnetonka Blvd., or the Municipal Service Center, 7305 Oxford St., or by contacting public works at operations@stlouisparkmn.gov or 952.924.2562.

• Use certified compostable bags, brown paper Kraft lawn bags or brown paper grocery bags.

• Branches must be less than 4 inches in diameter and less than 4 feet long. Tie branches into bundles with string or put them in one of the container options above.

Note: Each container, bag or bundle should weigh no more than 40 pounds. Visit www.stlouisparkmn.gov/yard-waste for more information.

Composting yard clippingss

Reduce the amount of yard waste you set out this season by mulching your lawn clippings. Mulching recycles grass clippings and leaves by breaking them down into very small pieces that do not need to be bagged. Mulched grass clippings and leaves eventually break down and become compost, which reduces your need for fertilizer. Visit extension.umn.edu/lawncare/what-do-lawn-clippings to learn more.

Know before you throw

Welcome to the City of St. Louis Park’s “Know before you throw” guide – an image-based guide to help you know if an item should be recycled, composted or tossed. If you have questions about what goes where, visit www.stlouisparkmn.gov/garbage-recycling or contact staff at recycling@stlouisparkmn.gov or 952.924.2562.

GARBAGE:

Paper plates do not belong in the recycling! Despite being made of paper, these disposable plates are often coated in plastic resin or PFAs (which are carcinogenic chemicals) which make them hard to recycle. If you are participating in the city’s organics program and are sure that the plates are BPI-certified compostable, they can be placed in your organics cart.

ORGANICS:

Solid waste staff often get questions on what the best option is for disposal of toilet paper rolls and paper towel rolls. If you are participating in the city’s organics program, either curbside or as part of the drop-off program, these rolls should go in your curbside organics. If you are not participating in the program, you can learn more or sign up at www.stlouisparkmn.gov/organics

RECYCLING:

Decorative tins and pie tins, as long as they are clean and dry, can be placed in the curbside recycling cart.

Know your recycling day

For your convenience, the next three months of the recycling schedule are provided below. Visit www.stlouisparkmn.gov/recycling to download a yearly calendar, find your collection day or sign up for email reminders.

• If your normal service falls on or after a holiday, you will receive service one day later.

• Missed collection? Contact Waste Management at stlouispark@wm.com or 763.783.5423.

• This calendar applies only to properties with city-provided recycling. Multifamily buildings are required to offer recycling to their tenants. Check with your building management if you have questions. If your building doesn’t have recycling, email recycling@stlouisparkmn.gov for help.

Funding available for landscaping projects

It’s not too early to start thinking about spring landscaping projects that can help manage stormwater. The city’s Rainwater Rewards program offers funding and technical guidance to residential property owners who install projects that do at least one of the following:

• Protect and restore stormwater by capturing pollutants in rainwater runoff

• Increase the watershed’s ability to store water

• Preserve and restore native plant and wildlife communities

• Protect and preserve groundwater quality and quantity

Project examples include rain gardens, tree plantings, rain barrels, permeable pavement, green roofs and other innovative stormwater management practices.

Program benefits include cost share, guidance with management practices, selecting designers and contractors, and future planning. The program is available to residential properties in St. Louis Park. Applications are accepted year-round while funding remains.

To learn more, visit www.stlouisparkmn.gov/rainwater-rewards, or contact Erick Francis, water resources manager, at efrancis@stlouisparkmn.gov or 952.924.2690.

Week A

Week B Holiday

Paper shredding events scheduled

The city will be hosting free paper shredding events for confidential papers on June 21 from 3 – 5 p.m. and Sept. 7 from 2:30 – 4:30 p.m. at Creekside Park, 7341 Oxford St. Residents may bring up to five grocery bags of paper. Do not use lawn/leaf bags or plastic bags of any kind.

Visit www.stlouisparkmn.gov/cleanup or call 952.924.2562 for more information on event guidelines.

Note: Shredded paper is not accepted in recycling or organics carts. Bring confidential papers to a shredding event if you would like them to be shredded on-site and recycled.

Gardening swap is May 11

The 2023 gardening swap will be held May 11 from 5 – 7 p.m. at the Recreation Outdoor Center (ROC), 3700 Monterey Drive. This is a great opportunity to clear out gardening tools you no longer use and take home new seeds, tools and more!

Items not accepted: chemicals (including fertilizers and pesticides), plastic pots or broken items. To reduce the spread of jumping worms, only house plants, seedlings and annuals are allowed. To reduce the spread of invasive plants, certain perennials will also not be allowed.

The event is free and open to everyone! No items may be sold; everything must be given and taken freely. For more information and a list of acceptable items, visit www.stlouisparkmn.gov/waste-reduction. Contact public works at 952.924.2562 or recycling@stlouisparkmn.gov with questions.

2023 city cleanup days

Mark your calendars for the annual spring and fall cleanup days! These events will be held June 10 and Sept. 16 from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Municipal Service Center, 7305 Oxford St.

Visit www.stlouisparkmn.gov/cleanup or call public works at 952.924.2562 for event information and other disposal options available year-round.

New year, new utility rates

The City of St. Louis Park reviews utility rates annually to ensure rates are properly structured and generate enough revenue to operate and maintain the city’s water, sewer and solid waste services. In October 2022, the city council adopted the recommended rate changes for 2023.

As an example, the effect on a residential property with four people for all 2023 utility rate adjustments is an increase of approximately $14.18 per quarter, or $4.73 per month. This calculation is based on a household of four using 32 units of water per quarter, 16 units of sewer per quarter and a 60-gallon solid waste service. It’s important to note that rates will vary based on individual service levels.

Water

Water and water meter charges increased 3% for 2023. Water rates are structured to encourage water conservation. Water service charges are quarterly fixed fees based on meter size and are intended to help cover the cost of making water service available to users. These charges also help cover costs related to infrastructure and water meter system maintenance.

Sanitary sewer

The sanitary sewer rates increased 4.5% for 2023. Sanitary sewer rates include charges for sewer usage, as well as a fixed sanitary service charge that helps cover infrastructure maintenance costs.

Storm drainage/stormwater

The single-family stormwater rate increased 5% for 2023. The quarterly rate pays for flood control projects and stormwater infrastructure operation, maintenance and reconstruction.

Solid waste

The solid waste rates increased 5.25% for 2023. Solid waste rates include all city collection services – garbage, recycling, organics and yard waste – for residential customers.

Visit www.stlouisparkmn.gov/finance to view a full list of 2023 utility rates.

Stay in touch with the city

City of St. Louis Park contact information

Order a discounted rain barrel

The Recycling Association of Minnesota (RAM) has partnered with the city to provide rain barrels to residents at a discounted price this spring. St. Louis Park residents receive 50% off the regular price of $90. Online ordering starts March 1 at www.recycleminnesota.org; use promo code “stlouispark” to receive the discount.

Preordered rain barrels should be picked up Saturday, May 6, 8 a.m. – noon or Monday, May 8, 5 – 7 p.m. at the Municipal Service Center, 7305 Oxford St. If you can’t pick up rain barrels on these dates, RAM is hosting other sales throughout the spring with alternative pickup dates. Visit www.recycleminnesota.org or call RAM at 651.641.4589 for more information.

Sham roc Ice Bowling St.

Louis Park

Saturday, March 18, noon – 6 p.m. $50 per team • Registration deadline: March 14

AGES 12+ ROC, 3700 Monterey Drive

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to bowl on ice? You’re in luck! Sign up for the ShamROC Ice Bowling event! Bowl four frames to win fabulous prizes and stay for the food, drinks, music and fun. Register your team of four and secure your time slot. Visit www.shamrocicebowling.com for rules, registration and more information. Games take approximately 30 minutes.

Coming soon: Multifamily electric vehicle charging cost share

If your multifamily property has a parking lot with shared (unassigned) spaces and you are interested in installing electric vehicle (EV) charging equipment, you may qualify for reimbursement from the city! To be eligible for the city cost share, your property must be first accepted into the Xcel Energy Multifamily Charging program. Under this program, you will receive EV infrastructure installed at no cost and a discounted upfront cost for EV charging equipment. St. Louis Park multifamily properties are encouraged to express their interest to Xcel Energy (the program is currently at capacity but is likely to reopen later this year).

Contact Annie Pottorff, sustainability specialist, at apottorff@stlouisparkmn.gov or 952.928.1418 for more information.

Energy efficiency rebates increase

This year, exciting changes are happening to the existing residential energy efficiency rebate matching program – starting with its name. This program, now known as “Climate Champions for Homes,” will increase the city’s match on rebates from 25% or 50% to 50%, 75%, 100% or even 150% on rebates for energy efficiency equipment and air sealing/insulation projects. Because utility rebates are not yet available for heat pumps and heat pump water heaters, the city will provide rebates up to $2,500 and $1,000, respectively. In order to qualify for this program, residents must have a Home Energy Squad “Planner” visit or have received one within the past 36 months. Contact Ellie Rabine, sustainability specialist, at erabine@stlouisparkmn.gov or 952.924.2131 for more information.

After completing a project, you may be eligible for a rooftop solar reimbursement bonus from the city. Contact Annie Pottorff, sustainability specialist, at apottorff@stlouisparkmn.gov or 952.928.1418 for more information.

Preventing ice dams, water damage

Spring is on its way, which means a lot of snow melt and rain. Be sure your home is protected from water damage with these tips:

• Clear nearby storm drains – This will allow melting snow and rainwater to drain properly on your street. If you find a blocked drain you can’t clear, call the city at 952.924.2562 to report the location so city crews can help.

• Remove snow and ice dams from roofs – Remove as much snow as possible from your roof. Clear away ice dams, being careful not to damage gutters and roof edges. Call a professional to remove especially stubborn ice dams.

• Remove snow from around your home’s foundation – Be mindful not to deposit the snow on neighboring properties.

• Check your sump pump – If it’s not working, call a plumber to fix or replace it. Make sure the pump’s outside discharge pipe opening is clear so water can drain. Consider adding a battery backup so the sump pump will work during an electrical outage.

• Check your gutters – Point gutter downspouts away from your home’s foundation, but not toward neighboring properties. Make sure they are clear of ice and debris so water can flow easily through them.

• Review your homeowners insurance – Review your policy with your agent to ensure you understand your coverage. Consider buying flood insurance, which is available to anyone but must be purchased 30 days in advance of any claim.

Idle-Free SLP message spreads across city

Are you noticing more “Idle-Free SLP” signs around town? You can thank local St. Louis Park Middle School students Suwaydah, Ibtisam and Erin for making their class research project come to life! After hearing their presentation at the sixth-grade climate summit, city staff got involved to help spread the message. Now, you can see Idle-Free SLP signs posted at many schools, parks and city facilities. If you’d like free signs for your school or business, contact Ellie Rabine, sustainability specialist, at erabine@stlouisparkmn.gov or 952.924.2131.

Myth vs. fact

Myth: I need to warm up my vehicle for several minutes in the winter.

Fact: According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy, modern engines don’t require more than 30 seconds to sufficiently warm up. In fact, driving at slow speeds warms up your vehicle twice as fast as idling!

Is your property at risk of flooding?

Wondering what the flood risk is for your property? The city will give you the following information at your request:

• If your property is in or out of the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) as shown on the current Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM); in or out of the floodway; or in or near an area where the problems are not shown on the FIRM.

• Additional flood insurance data for a property, such as the FIRM zone and the base flood elevation or depth, if shown on the FIRM, and if a property is in or near an area of historical flooding and/or natural functions floodplain.

To request information, provide your street address and, if available, the subdivision, lot and block number. City staff will do the rest.

For more information, call the community development department at 952.924.2575. Visit www.stlouisparkmn.gov/floodplain for more information on flood hazards, risks and building responsibly.

Future land use around METRO Green Line Extension stations

The METRO Green Line Extension light rail transit corridor is a major area for redevelopment and change. The city adopted plans for the three station areas 10 to 20 years ago; these plans have guided significant public and private investment and our land use and mobility policies. The city will revisit the plans in 2023 to recognize our progress and imagine a more resilient, inclusive and dynamic future. We want to hear from the community about what you value and want to preserve in these areas. Your feedback will help us more clearly define our goals.

Visit the project webpage at bit.ly/3GVtomS to learn more and to see what opportunities are available to get involved, as they become available. Or, contact Senior Planner Laura Chamberlain at lchamberlain@stlouisparkmn.gov or 952.924.2573.

Help for small businesses

Hennepin County offers resources and programming for small businesses at any stage through its Elevate Business program.

Elevate Business is a hub where business owners can come together to learn through free one-on-one services from trusted consultants and advisors, specializing in legal support, marketing, bookkeeping, finance, loan and grant navigation, and more.

Elevate Business offers free services for entrepreneurs, including:

• 25 hours of free business advising

• Peer-to-peer roundtables

• Topic-driven webinars and events

• Regional resources, all in one place

Visit www.elevatebusinesshc.com to search for a business advisor, explore lending options or view upcoming events.

Open to Business

As part of the city’s Open to Business program, Open to Business Advisor Vicky Gonzalez will be at city hall for in-person, 15-minute consultations the third Tuesday of each month between 10 a.m. – noon. She will be available to answer business questions, offer referrals and provide consultations about your business. For in-person consultations, contact Vicky at vgonzalez@mccdmn.org or 612.843.3269 to make an appointment. Walk-ins are also welcome; you might have to wait if there are others ahead of you.

Small business expansion program now available

The City of St. Louis Park has launched the Advance program, a small business assistance program to help with the establishment or expansion of small businesses in St. Louis Park. Qualified small businesses (with between 1 to 20 employees and under $1 million dollars in annual revenue) can receive forgivable loans up to $10,000. Loan funds can be used for interior and exterior commercial building improvements, equipment, repairs or first-time commercial property acquisitions. Loan funds require a minimum of one-to-one match of applicantincurred eligible expenses.

Visit www.stlouisparkmn.gov/business-financing for more information, or contact Greg Hunt at ghunt@stlouisparkmn.gov or 952.924.2197 or Julie Grove at jgrove@stlouisparkmn.gov or 952.924.2523.

Stay informed about construction projects

The City of St. Louis Park has several transportation projects with activity scheduled for this construction season. If you live or travel through these areas, visit www.stlouisparkmn.gov/construction-updates to learn more about the projects and sign up for email updates.

METRO Green Line Extension

2022 was a very busy year for METRO Green Line

Extension construction across the community, with a segment of the Cedar Lake Regional Trail between Beltline Boulevard and Wooddale Avenue that opened in late fall. Construction will continue in 2023 and is expected to include work on road, rail and stations near Beltline Boulevard, Louisiana Avenue and Wooddale Avenue. Visit greenlineext.org to sign up for the Metropolitan Council’s weekly updates.

2023 pavement management project

Several streets in the Lenox, Oak Hill and Texa-Tonka neighborhoods are scheduled for rehabilitation during the 2023 construction season. There are different construction activities going on throughout the neighborhoods, including pavement replacement, watermain reconstruction, sanitary sewer reconstruction, storm sewer reconstruction, new sidewalk construction and sidewalk repair. The city’s annual pavement management project proactively addresses the condition of residential streets within the city. The program was developed to extend pavement life and enhance system-wide performance in a cost-effective and efficient way. Construction is expected to start in May and completed in the fall.

Alley rehabilitation

The city is planning for select alleys in the Birchwood and Bronx Park neighborhoods to be upgraded in 2023. Construction includes removing the existing surface, regrading, drainage improvements and installing a new concrete surface.

RedoCedarLou: Cedar Lake Road, Louisiana Avenue improvements Road improvements are planned for Cedar Lake Road and Louisiana Avenue. The project consists of two distinct parts that will be constructed separately:

1. Cedar Lake Road improvements (between Highway 169 and Nevada Avenue): 2024 construction

2. Louisiana Avenue improvements (between Wayzata Boulevard and the railroad bridge south of Cedar Lake Road): 2024 – 2025 construction. This part also includes Cedar Lake Road from Kentucky Avenue to Nevada Avenue.

Cedar Lake Road and Louisiana Avenue improvements project will include:

• New pavement

• A roundabout at Cedar Lake Road and Louisiana Avenue

• Enhancements for people walking and rolling, including curb extensions, raised medians and upgrades to ensure ADA compliance

• Accommodations for people biking

• Streetscape improvements

To learn more, visit bit.ly/RedoCedarLou, or contact Joseph Shamla, project manager, at jshamla@stlouisparkmn.gov or 952.924.2552.

Minnetonka Boulevard reconstruction planned for 2024

Minnetonka Boulevard (County Road 5) between Highway 100 and France Avenue will be getting a makeover in 2024 and 2025. Hennepin County received approval from the city council for the preliminary design. The project will include:

• Reducing the lanes of traffic from four to three to better facilitate vehicle turns and increase safety

• Enhancements for people walking, biking and rolling, including curb extensions, raised medians and crossing beacons

• Trails along both sides the corridor

• Stormwater improvements

• Watermain replacement

• Streetscape improvements

Construction is expected to begin in spring 2024. Due to the size of the project, it will take two years to complete.

Visit hennepin.us/minnetonka-boulevard to learn more about the project.

Public housing waiting list opening soon

The two-, three-, four- and five-bedroom public housing waiting lists will open Tuesday, Feb. 21, at 10 a.m. and close Thursday, March 2, at 4 p.m. Applications will be accepted online only during this period. Translation is available in 60 languages. Applicants must meet income and eligibility requirements.

Visit www.stlouisparkmn.gov/rental-assistance to learn more.

This year, we are launching a series to help you learn how your city government works and how you can be involved. You will learn how the city operates, how decisions are made, your role in policy making and how you can have your voice heard. Below is some basic information about how the city works.

How is the city organized?

The City of St. Louis Park operates under a council-manager form of government. This form of government means that the legislative and executive powers of the city are performed by the St. Louis Park City Council, and day-to-day administration of the city is overseen by the city manager.

The city charter, basically the city’s constitution, outlines the city’s structure, powers, procedures and duties.

How many members are on the city council?

The city council has seven members who are elected to four-year terms. The mayor and two at large council members are elected by all eligible voters in the city. The four ward council members are elected by all eligible voters who live within their specific ward. All members of the council are elected to represent the interests of everyone in the community. However, your ward council member is primarily responsible for representing the people in their ward. Council members are not full-time city staff.

What does a council member do?

During public meetings, the city council makes decisions about policies and programs by determining what best reflects the city’s strategic priorities and how the city’s resources can be used to provide the best value and quality services to the community. Outside of formal meetings, the council interacts with residents and businesses to learn about the public perspective, represents the community at public events and interacts with representatives at the federal level, state and county to advocate for the city’s goals and values.

The council’s decisions impact daily life in St. Louis Park in many ways through a broad range of services. A few examples are maintenance of city streets and sidewalks, ensuring clean drinking water, offering programs to connect and support the community through parks, recreation, housing and public safety. All of these activities are funded through careful spending of the city’s tax dollars.

How can I connect with the mayor or city council members?

The mayor and council members value your input and welcome conversations on issues that affect you and the city. You have many options to connect with the mayor and council members to share your thoughts or ideas about city services, programs or policies. You can attend a council meeting or city event, or reach out by phone, email or mail. If you have specific questions or needs regarding city services, you can reach out directly to city staff. They can help facilitate meetings with council members if needed and when appropriate. The city council meets multiple times each month, typically on Mondays, to conduct city business. The full schedule of meetings is available at city hall, on the city website or by requesting it from the city clerk’s office. Contact information for council members is at the bottom right of this page.

How can I learn more about what is on a council agenda or what the council is working on?

Members of the public can view past and upcoming council meeting agendas on the city’s website or at city hall. Agendas, and all corresponding information, are published at noon the Friday before a council meeting. You can also subscribe to receive email notifications when new agendas and minutes are available on the city’s website. City staff are a great resource to learn more about specific actions, programs or policies the council may be considering and can often provide a general timeline.

2023 election preview

Following each statewide general election, the city holds elections for local offices, including city council and school board, the following November. There is no primary election in odd-numbered election years. City offices are elected using ranked-choice voting. Members of the school board are elected using a traditional voting system.

Candidate filing for city and school district offices opens Aug. 1, 2023

If you are considering running for office, this will be your chance to file for office to represent your neighbors in local government. Candidate filing is open for two weeks, followed by a short two-day withdrawal period. City offices on the ballot in 2023 are mayor, council member at large A and council member at large B. Keep an eye out for opportunities this spring and summer to learn more about becoming a candidate, including information on how to file for office and what it means to be a member of the city council.

Voter outreach and engagement

The City of St. Louis Park is committed to voter outreach and engagement. You can look for the elections team at most major events in the summer and fall during election season. Stop by to ask a question, to register to vote or to talk about local elections. You can also invite us to come speak to your group about elections by sending an email to elections@stlouisparkmn.gov.

The 2023 Pocket Voter Guide is in production now. Once it becomes available, it will be published on the city website, and printed copies will be available at city facilities or from elections staff at outreach events.

Follow us on social media, @stlouispark, or sign up on the city’s website to receive elections email updates and announcements throughout the year.

Boards and commissions

City boards and commissions advise the city council on important matters each year. These public bodies are a great way to get involved with city government using your own unique expertise and voice.

This year, the city is listening and learning how these bodies could be improved to ensure their work reflects the city’s strategic priorities and are accessible and inclusive spaces for community members. The city has hired a consultant to engage current and former board and commission members, residents, city council and staff to analyze the program and provide recommendations to enhance it.

Neighborhoods

Your neighborhood is so much more than where you live. It is also a network of friends and volunteers, a powerful group of people who can define a collective sense of place. Together, you can engage with your neighbors, keep your area safe and secure, while also improving the quality of life for everyone around you.

So how do you connect with your neighbors? Following the COVID-19 pandemic, many are rightly asking what it means to gather and how we can all still come together. The city has staff and resources available to help form and lead a neighborhood organization, as well as information about what an organized neighborhood can mean. Apply by Feb. 28 for neighborhood grants to hold events or activities with your organized neighborhood group. If your neighborhood isn’t organized, please contact city staff to learn more.

The city is home to 35 neighborhoods with decades of history and experience. The boards of some of these neighborhoods include business and community leaders, council and school board members, and people from all walks of life. Together they have accomplished great things and helped create a strong sense of community within their neighborhoods.

To learn more, email neighborhood@stlouisparkmn.gov or visit www.stlouisparkmn.gov/our-city/neighborhoods

Contacting the mayor and city council

Keep this information handy if you want to contact the mayor and city council. Please note, they don’t maintain office hours at city hall. Phone numbers are provided to leave messages, which are checked regularly and will be returned.

Mayor Jake Spano jspano@stlouisparkmn.gov

952.928.1448

At Large A

To be appointed February 2023

952.928.1451

At Large B

Nadia Mohamed nmohamed@stlouisparkmn.gov

952.207.0256

Ward 1

Margaret Rog mrog@stlouisparkmn.gov

952.928.1447

Ward 2 Lynette Dumalag ldumalag@stlouisparkmn.gov

952.928.1435

Ward 3

Sue Budd sbudd@stlouisparkmn.gov

952.928.1460

Ward 4 Tim Brausen tbrausen@stlouisparkmn.gov

952.928.1444