HomeMy WebLinkAboutJune 2015 City of
Oak
Tree City USA Summer 2015 Newsletter
Inside this issue: Oak Park Crossing Park Ribbon Cutting Event—July 20, 2015
Bayport Fire Dept. 2 The Oak Park Heights City Council and
Call Statistics Parks Commission would like to invite resi-
dents to the Oak Park Crossing Park Ribbon
Arborist 3 Cutting Event on Monday, July 20, 2015, at
News 6:00 p.m. Oak Park Crossing Park is the
City's newest park and features a new play-
Pet Owner 4 ground and picnic shelter, walking trails,
Reminders prairie grasses, and plenty of parking.
Building Permit 4 The new park is located north of Valley View Park and west of Cover Park at
Information 15055 60th Street North, which is the former Moelter fly-ash site. The site
Water Quality 5 has been capped off and turned into a beautiful park.
Report
Oak Park Crossing Park received its name through a 2013 contest open to
Environmental 8 children 17 years and under. The entries were considered by the Parks
News Commission and narrowed down to three finalists. The winning name was
submitted by resident Shelby Zeuli. Shelby was recognized at the City's
Street Recon. 9 Party in the Park on September 8, 2013, by Mayor Mary McComber, and will
Update again be recognized at the ribbon cutting.
Utility Bill 10 Please join the City Council and Parks Commission: Monday, July 20, 2015
Information at 6:00 p.m. at Oak Park Crossing Park!
Summer Storm I I Summer watering ban—even/odd schedule
Preparedness
Summer is here! It is time to remind everyone that Oak Park Heights has an even-odd
Parks Commission 12 watering ban except for the watering of new sod and young trees. While the City's wa-
Vacancy ter supply is adequate, the regulation is intended to conserve water and balance de-
mands on the City's water system.
DNR Press To secure the conservation of municipal water as a resource for the benefit of the peo-
Release ple of the City of Oak Park Heights, all water sprinkling and irrigation systems and
practices shall be regulated to allow water sprinkling and irrigation systems to operate in
St. Croix River 14 the following manner: as to all properties which property address ends in an even num-
Crossing Update ber, those properties will be allowed to sprinkle or irrigate on even numbered calendar
days. As to all properties whose property address ends in an odd number, their right to
Summer Park I s use sprinkling and irrigation systems shall be limited to calendar number days ending in
Program Schedule odd numbers.
Page 2 Summer 2015 Newsletter
Bayport Fire Department
Construction on the new Bayport Fire Department has
officially begun. A ground breaking ceremony was held
in spring was attended by representatives from all of the
communities that Bayport Fire Department responds to.
The ground work for the foundation is moving quick
and soon Miller Excavating will be installing the water
and sewer lines. The project is on course to be complet-
ed late 2015.
Below are call statistics for January—April 2015. If
you have any questions for the Bayport Fire Depart-
ment, they can be reached at 651-275-4401.
TOTAL CALLS JAN FEB MAR APR TOTAL
2013 108 88 76 93 365
2014 112 80 89 98 379
2015 98 93 102 123 416
YTD by CALL TYPE JAN FEB MAR APR TOTAL
Fire 4 3 5 5 17
Overpressure, Rupture, Explosion, Overheat 1 1 2
Rescue/EMS 70 71 78 79 298
Hazardous Condition 1 1 3 5
Service Call 3 1 3 6 13
Good Intent Call 17 5 13 17 52
False Alarm/False Call 3 11 3 12 29
TOTAL 98 93 102 123 416
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Playful-City USA is a iiatonaI recognition program honoring cities and towns across the nation who
are creating an agenda for play. The Playful City USA program is a unique self-assessment tool that
assists communities in identifying local play assets and play deficits, and in developing a rigorous
action plan driven towards increasing quality, quantity, and access for play in your city..:.:.:::.:::..:::..:::..::::.:::.:::.:::.:::.:::.:::
Once again the City of Oak Park Heights was one of only 214 cities across the country to be awarded
the 2015 Playful City USA designation and only one of two in the State of Minnesota. The City is
committed to providing the community with areas to play and increase physical activity and has de-
veloped a local action plan to increase the quantity and quality of play in the City. The City of Oak
Park Heights was selected for the designation because of its commitment to children and play. Fora
park and trail guide, please visit City Hall or the City's website,www.cityofoakparkheights.com.
Tree City USA Page 3
Emerald Ash Borer Tree Problems?
Emerald ash borer (EAB) has not yet been activity, please contact the Arborist. Do
confirmed in Washington County. Top not move ash wood with intact bark from If you have a
thinning and dieback is one of the first one area to another, as this is one way problem with a
symptoms of EAB infestation, but may not that emerald ash borer is easily spread. tree or shrub,
appear until trees have been infested for a The city is continuing to remove ash trees c a 11 L i s a
year or more. Check trunk and branches which are doing poorly, are interfering Danielson, the
for "D-shaped" adult exit holes and "S- with power lines, competing with other new Arborist at
shaped" larval galleries under the bark. If trees, have storm damage, or are blocking 439-4439• Lisa
larvae are present there may be a lot of sight lines along the street. If you have an graduated from
woodpecker activity, particularly in the top ash tree that you think should be re- the Univ. of
half of the tree. If you see any signs of EAB moved, contact the OPH Arborist. Wis. River Falls
with a degree
in Conservation
Biology and is
Oak Wilt a Public Works
employee at the
Due to insect transmission of the oak wilt fungus to fresh wounds on healthy oaks, City. The
oaks should not be wounded or pruned during the `high risk' period from April I" to f o r m e r
July I". If they are wounded anytime during the growing season (April I- Oct. 1), the Arborist, Kathy
wounds should be painted with latex house paint to prevent oak wilt infection. It is Wi d i n, is
best to prune oaks between Oct. 151h and Mar. 151h. available on a
very part-time
basis to help
Leaf Spot Diseases of Trees oversee the
program until
In wet spring and summer weather, fungal leafspot diseases can be common. mid-August,
These diseases cause rounded black to brown spots on leaves. Fungal leaf- when she will
spot diseases can also cause leaf fall and leave trees thin or bare of leaves. be retiring. The
Some leafspots, such as oak anthracnose on white and bur oaks, can cause Arborist can
the leaf edges to brown and curl, progressing to large blotches and wilting of either answer
leaves. Most leafspot diseases are short-lived during the spring and cause little your question
damage to trees and shrubs. A fungal disease which can continue to infect over the phone
trees in summer and cause leaf loss on susceptible varieties, is apple scab on and/or make
apples and crabapples. If choosing a new flowering crabapple, there are many an appointment
cultivated varieties which have good scab resistance. for a site visit.
This service is
paid for by the
Diseased Elms and Oaks City of Oak
Park Heights.
Elms which wilt this summer due to Dutch elm disease, or red or pin oaks which wilt due
to oak wilt will be removed by the Cite at no charge to the homeowner. Trees and debris
are removed from private property; however, the City does not pay to have the stumps
ground out. Property owners wishing to have currently diseased trees removed, will need
to sign a "Waiver of Trespass" in order to have a tree service, hired by the City of Oak
Park Heights, enter their property for removal and clean-up. If you think you have Dutch
elm disease or oak wilt on your property call the OPH Arborist.
Page 4 Summer 2015 Newsletter
Attention Pet Owners
Leash Law Reminder
The City of Oak Park Heights City Council updated its Leash Law Ordinance effective March 1,
2015. All dogs and cats that are off the premises of the owner must be on a leash at all times and
under control of the owner or another designated person. If you do not have your dog or cat on
a leash,you will be in violation of the new Ordinance.
Also, when you are out walking your pet, please remember to bring a plastic bag. Pet owners
are required by City Ordinance to clean up pet waste on public and private property. Removal
and proper disposal of pet waste helps keep our City clean and healthy.
Pet Licenses
All dogs and cats in the City for more than 30 days are required to have a City Pet License. There
is no charge for this service and it could save your pet from a trip to the animal shelter. Bring
proof of your pet's rabies vaccination to City Hall to receive a pet license and tag. For more infor-
mation, please call City Hall at 651-4394439. City Ordinances can be viewed on the City's web-
site: www.cityofoakparkheights.com.
Do I Need a Building Permit?
When planning your project, keep in mind that many projects require a building permit prior to the
project starting.
Some common do-it yourself projects such as decks, porches, gazebos, fences, sheds, re-
roofing, re-siding, new plumbing or heating or alterations to your existing services, window re-
placement, driveway replacement and parking pads typically require a permit to ensure compli-
ance to adopted construction and local ordinance codes. Many projects will require property line
verification.
If you are hiring a contractor for your project, make sure they are licensed, have obtained a per-
mit for the work you that you have hired them for, and that the inspections appropriate to your
project are being scheduled while they are working.
Building permit applications and information on a variety of projects are available at City Hall and
can also be found on the City webpage at www.cityofoakparkheights.com. If you don't find what
you are looking for, let us know. We will do our best to get you the information you need.
Mowing Season Reminder
Overgrown grass is one of the most common complaints the City receives. Overgrown grass is unsightly
and over time can compromise public safety. Oak Park Heights City Nuisance Ordinance 1109.03 has a
maximum height limit for grass. Grass and weeds cannot be over 6 inches in height or it is violation of the
City Ordinance. Be a good neighbor, mow your lawn on a regular basis and keep it below the 6-inches.
2014 Water Quality
2014 CONSUMER CONFIDENCE REPORT
CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS
PWSID: 1820020
2014 Drinking Water Report
The City of Oak Park Heights is issuing the results of monitoring done on its drinking water for the period from January 1 to De-
cember 31,2014. The purpose of this report is to advance consumers' understanding of drinking water and heighten awareness of
the need to protect precious water resources.
Source of Water
The City of Oak Park Heights provides drinking water to its residents from a groundwater source: two wells ranging from 290 to
310 feet deep,that draw water from the Jordan aquifer.
The water provided to customers may meet drinking water standards, but the Minnesota Department of Health has also made a
determination as to how vulnerable the source of water may be to future contamination incidents. If you wish to obtain the entire
source water assessment regarding your drinking water,please call 651-201-4700 or 1-800-818-9318 (press 5)during normal busi-
ness hours. Also,you can view it online at www.health state.mn.us/divs/eh/water/swp/swa.
Call Public Works Director, Andy Kegley, at(651) 439-4439 if you have questions about the City of Oak Park Heights drinking
water or would like information about opportunities for public participation in decisions that may affect the quality of the water.
Results of Monitoring
The results contained in the following table indicate an exceedance of a federal standard. Some other contaminants were detected
in trace amounts that were below legal limits. The table that follows shows the contaminants that were detected in trace amounts
last year. (Some contaminants are sampled less frequently than once a year;as a result,not all contaminants were sampled for in
2014. If any of these contaminants were detected the last time they were sampled for,they are included in the table along with the
date that the detection occurred.)
Key to abbreviations:
MCLG—Maximum Contaminant Level Goal: The level of a contaminant in drinking water below which there is no known or ex-
pected risk to health. MCLGs allow for a margin of safety.
MCL—Maximum Contaminant Level: The highest level of a contaminant that is allowed in drinking water. MCLS are set as close
to the MCLGs as feasible using the best available treatment technology.
AL—Action Level: The concentration of a contaminant which,if exceeded,triggers treatment or other requirement which a water
system must follow.
90th Percentile Level—This is the value obtained after disregarding 10 percent of the samples taken that had the highest levels.
(For example,in a situation in which 10 samples were taken,the 90th percentile level is determined by disregarding the highest
result,which represents 10 percent of the samples.) Note: In situations in which only 5 samples are taken,the average of the two
with the highest levels is taken to determine the 90th percentile level.
ppm—Parts per million,which can also be expressed as milligrams per liter(mg/1).
ppb—Parts per billion,which can also be expressed as micrograms per liter(µg/1).
N/A—Not Applicable(does not apply).
2014 Water Quality
Level Found
Contaminant(units) MCLG MCL Range Average/ Typical Source of Contaminant
(2014) Result*
Fluoride(ppm) 4 4 1.3-1.6 1.42 State of Minnesota requires all municipal water
systems to add fluoride to the drinking water to
promote strong teeth;Erosion of natural deposits;
Discharge from fertilizer and aluminum factories.
Nitrate(as Nitro- 10.4 10.4 2.9-3.4 3.4 Runoff from fertilizer use;Leaching from septic
gen)(ppm) tanks, sewage;Erosion of natural deposits.
Total Coliform 0 >1 present N/A 5 Naturally present in the environment.
Bacteria Present
*This is the value used to determine compliance with federal standards. It sometimes is the highest value detected and sometimes
is an average of all the detected values. If it is an average,it may contain sampling results from the previous year.
*We had a violation of the Total Coliform Rule on September 3,2014.Due to local construction on the City's water mains and as
a precaution,the City chlorinated the water distribution system until November 18, 2014. Coliforms are bacteria that are naturally
present in the environment and are used as an indicator that other,potentially-harmful,bacteria may be present. Coliforms were
found in more samples than allowed, and this was a warning of potential problems. In response to this problem, OPH notified
residents of the situation, disinfected the system, and retested to ensure that the water was safe before discontinuing the chlorine
feed.
Contaminant 90% #sites
(units) MCLG AL Level over AL Typical Source of Contaminant
Copper(ppm) 1.3 1.3 .16 0 out of 20 Corrosion of household plumbing systems;Erosion of
natural deposits.
Lead(ppb) 0 15 4 0 out of 20 Corrosion of household plumbing systems;Erosion of
(07/19/2011) natural deposits.
If present, elevated levels of lead can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children. Lead in
drinking water is primarily from materials and components associated with service lines and home plumbing. City of Oak Park
Heights is responsible for providing high quality drinking water,but cannot control the variety of materials used in plumbing com-
ponents. When your water has been sitting for several hours, you can minimize the potential for lead exposure by flushing your
tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for drinking or cooking. If you are concerned about lead in your water, you
may wish to have your water tested. Information on lead in drinking water, testing methods, and steps you can take to minimize
exposure is available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline or at http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lead.
Monitoring may have been done for additional contaminants that do not have MCLS established for them and are not required to
be monitored under the Safe Drinking Water Act. Results may be available by calling 651-201-4700 or 1-800-818-9318 during
normal business hours.
2014 Water Quality
Compliance with National Primary Drinking Water RegWations
The sources of drinking water (both tap water and bottled water) include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and
wells. As water travels over the surface of the land or through the ground,it dissolves naturally❑occurring minerals and, in some
cases,radioactive material,and can pick up substances resulting from the presence of animals or from human activity.
Contaminants that may be present in source water include:
Microbial contaminants, such as viruses and bacteria, which may come from sewage treatment plants, septic systems, agri-
cultural livestock operations,and wildlife.
Inorganic contaminants, such as salts and metals, which can be naturally[]occurring or result from urban stormwater run-
off,industrial or domestic wastewater discharges,oil and gas production,mining,or farming.
Pesticides and herbicides, which may come from a variety of sources such as agriculture,urban stormwater runoff,and resi-
dential uses.
Organic chemical contaminants, including synthetic and volatile organic chemicals,which are by-products of industrial pro-
cesses and petroleum production,and can also come from gas stations,urban stormwater runoff,and septic systems.
Radioactive contaminants, which can be naturally[]occurring or be the result of oil and gas production and mining activi-
ties.
In order to ensure that tap water is safe to drink, the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)prescribes regulations which
limit the amount of certain contaminants in water provided by public water systems. Food and Drug Administration regulations
establish limits for contaminants in bottled water which must provide the same protection for public health.
Drinking water, including bottled water, may reasonably be expected to contain at least small amounts of some contaminants.
The presence of contaminants does not necessarily indicate that water poses a health risk. More information about contaminants
and potential health effects can be obtained by calling the Environmental Protection Agency's Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-
800-426-4791.
Some people may he more vulnerable to contaminants in drinking water than the general population. Immuno-compromised
persons such as persons with cancer undergoing chemotherapy,persons who have undergone organ transplants,people with
HIV/AIDS or other immune system disorders, some elderly, and infants can he particularly at risk from infections. These
people should seek advice about drinking water from their healthcare providers. EPAICDC guidelines on appropriate means
to lessen the risk of infection by Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminants are available from the Safe Drinking Wa-
ter Hotline at 1-800-426-4791.
Page 8 Summer 2015 Newsletter
Chlorination of City water
As a result of the Street Reconstruction and related water utility construction where utility lines will be ex-
posed, the City of Oak Park Heights took a precautionary measure and started a chlorine feed to the City's
water distribution system. The chlorine feed will be set to achieve the MN Department of Health minimum
requirement of at least .02 -.05 ppm.
The chlorine feed began on Monday June 15th and will be terminated after water
main construction is completed in October, 2015.
Please note: As the chlorine levels fluctuate and/or decrease closer to .02 ppm —
the "chlorine smell" may be more noticeable because the chlorine reacts to organ-
ics in the water. Despite the possible odor, the water is within Dept. of Health
Standards and is typically due to lowering amounts of chlorine over time. Public
Works Staff samples and tests the water daily to ensure it is safe.
If you have questions please call Andy Kegley, Public Works Director at(651) 439-4439.
Reduce Harmful Chemicals in Your Home
You can reduce exposure to harmful chemicals at home by purchasing less hazardous household
products.
• Look for products that list all their ingredients on the label. Generally, fewer ingredients are
better.
• Use a multi-purpose cleaner rather than buying many specialty cleaners.
• Use single-ingredient products (baking soda, white vinegar, lemon juice, salt) that serve sever-
al functions.
• Choose products that are made from plant-based materials like citrus, seed, vegetables, herbs
or pine oils.
• Choose products that have low or no volatile organic compounds (VOCs). VOCs are toxic
chemicals that are released into the air.
• Choose chlorine-free products.
• Choose water-based glues, adhesives and paints.
Choose the least toxic product to do the job. A product with the signal word Caution on its label is
less hazardous than a product with the signal word Warning, Danger or Poison.
Many people are switching to homemade cleaners to reduce exposure to hazardous chemicals.
Inexpensive ingredients like baking soda, vinegar and dish soap often clean just as well as store-
bought products. You can find more information about non-toxic cleaners at www.Reduce.org.
If you have an unwanted product with any of the signal words (poison, danger, warning, caution),
take any leftovers to the Washington County Environmental Center located at
4039 Cottage Grove Drive in Woodbury, Minnesota. For hours and directions,
call 651-430-6655. RECYCLING-
Tree City USA Page 9
2015 Street Reconstruction Project Update
Phase I - 62nd St N and to the South
Removals occurred on Paris and Paul Ave's south of Upper 61St N. Pavement was re-
moved from 62nd, Paris, Paul and Upper 61St. An alternative parking suggestion for resi-
dents on Paris and Paul can be along the east side of Beach or on U1212er 61 st east of
Beach.
The temporary water mains and service lines are being tested. Watermain installation is
tentatively scheduled to begin 6/15/15, weather-permitting. First the contractor will tie in
temporary water to the homes along 62nd, on Upper 61St, and on Paul and Paris between
Upper 61 stand 62nd.
�5
Y Reconstruction work will start on 62nd and work from the east to
the west with the new watermain. During the installation of water
main, be aware that trenching activity may cut off access to your
- driveways during working hours. An alternative parking suggestion
for residents on 62nd during the water main work is along 63rd St. N or
east of Beach on U1212er 61St.
Phase II - north of 62nd and west of Paris ,
This phase is tentatively scheduled to begin early to mid-July.
Phase III - north of 62nd and east of Paris.
This phase is tentatively scheduled to begin late August/early Sep-
tember.
Osman Avenue
This phase is tentatively scheduled to begin 6/15/15 weather per .. z.
mitting.
Valley View Park Parking Lot
Work to replace the Valley View parking lot was scheduled to begin on 6/15/15. The pro-
ject may impact access to and from the park shelter during active construction, but
when construction activity is not occurring on site, there should be full access to the park
amenities.
Please note: Door-to-door notices will be provided for concrete curb work that will im-
pact driveway accessibility and for water main shutdowns affecting your home.
Please call Lucas Miller of Stantec directly with any scheduling or construction-related
items. And please call the Project Hotline at 651 -604-4727 for a recording of project up-
dates or to leave a message with a question or concern.
Page i Summer 2015 Newslefter
Y �
Go GREEN: Pay & View Oak Park Heights Utility Bills Online
• Pay ONLINE WHY?
-
s t Go to www.City0f0akParkHeights.com Help save natural
resources by viewvng
1. Click"Pay Utility Bill" and paying online
2. You will go to our payment processor's website where
�. you should register and make your payment • Easy,fast and
' secure
�*,°'` • Pay immedfatefy,
Or CALL schedufe a payment
or set up Auto-Pay
h ' 1-877-886-7968(have your bill handy to provide your account number) . Keep costs down;
opt out of paper bills
View Bills Online • PnOrece)pts,view
paymeOt 1rs Gly
Go to www.Cialk arkHeights.com and more
1. Click"View Utility Bill"
Vire accept... 2. You will go to our payment processor's website to register
3. You will get an email each time your bill is ready
ecneck 1W a. VISA PIN
You don't have to a onlne to view our bills onlie.
Second quarter 2015 utility bills
City Meetings The outdoor utility payment drop box has been
(subject to change) relocated from near the front door to the land-
scaped circle directly outside the City Hall en-
trance. This will allow for you to drive up to the
City Council: box to drop off your payment rather than having
2nd and 4th Tuesdays at 7:00 to get out of your vehicle.
p.m.
Utility bills for the second Quarter of 2015 (April 1 —
June 30) will be mailed to residents in January and will
Planning Commission: be due August 9, 2015.
Typically the 2nd Thursday at
7:00 P.M. Auto pay is available. With auto pay, there is no need to
waste time writing and mailing a check. Paying your
utility bill electronically allows you to save time and
Parks Commission: money on stamps and late fees. The amount you owe on
3rd Monday at 6:30 p.m. your utility bill is automatically withdrawn from the ac-
count you designate on the billing due date each month.
You will continue to receive your bill so that you know
Agendas and Minutes are posted the date and amount to be withheld from your account.
on the City's website:
www.cityofoakparkheights.com If you are interested in participating, please call or stop
by City Hall to obtain an enrollment form. The form is
also available on the City's website, under City Infor-
mation, Forms & Handouts. Call Judy Tetzlaff at City
Hall, 651-439-4439, if you have questions.
Tree City USA Page 11
Storm Preparedness in Oak Park Heights
Residents should be advised that the City of Oak Park Heights maintains an Emergency Prepar-
edness Plan that will be implemented in the event the City experiences a storm, similar to what
recently occurred in the City of Hugo. The City's Police and Public Works Departments, along
with the Bayport Fire Department would immediately implement the strategies as outlined.
Generally, it is anticipated that water and sewer services will be operational as these facilities are
underground, but the City may implement emergency water consumption practices should direct
power be lost to the City's two wells. This would basically only allow household use, not the
sprinkling of lawns or car washing, etc. The City maintains back-up generation power that can
operate wells and sewerage lift-stations, but again these can only accommodate typical house-
hold usage.
Downed power lines can be the most dangerous aspect of storm clean-up, and residents are re-
quested to not make attempts to clear tress, limbs and braches that may be entangled in power
lines. Generally, the electricity distributions system in the City as operated by Xcel Energy lie un-
derground in most areas, however extreme caution should be taken until trees and limbs are first
verified as safe for removal.
Residents and businesses are encouraged to have an Emergency Preparedness Kit that will pro-
vide relief and resources in the event of a storm event and/or where electricity outages may be
several days. Please visit www.codeready.org for a listing of what every household or place of
business should have in their Emergency Preparedness Kit.
Lastly, in the event of a severe storm, you should contact City Hall at 651-439-4439 for infor-
mation on clean-up and response. Or, if you are able, check the City's website for "Storm Re-
sponse Information" as this will be updated regularly.
Above all, patience and neighbors helping each other will result in the most effective and efficient
clean-up/response to any disaster, large or small. The City will do its part to ensure a quick return
to normalcy.
Things to know about Washington County's Warning Sirens
There are 62 sirens in Washington County. The watch the weather itself for any changes that
Washington County Sheriff's Department tests could endanger you or those around you. Make
all sirens at 1:oo p.m. on the first Wednesday preparations to initiate your emergency plans.
of the month from March through October. The Consider canceling outdoor activities. If you
criteria for activating the sirens is as follows: are in a mobile home, travel trailer or recrea-
when a tornado warning is issued for Washing- tional vehicle, consider
ton County by the National Weather Service; moving to shelter as the
when the National Weather Service indicates storms move into your
sustained wind speed of 76 miles per hour or area,before warnings are
more; or when a City or County Public Safety issued, especially if these
Official re-quests activation due to imminent are fast moving storms.
danger to life and/or property. Stay informed and be
prepared.
Monitor weather information sources and
Page 12 Summer 2015 Newsletter
Parks Commission Vacancy
The City is seeking applications to fill vacancies on -
the City of Oak Park Heights Parks Commission.
The Parks Commission is a board of five members, ,
appointed by the City Council, who meet regularly on
the third Monday of each month, typically at 7:00 pm
as well as on other occasions, when needed.
The objectives objectives of the Parks Commission are to make
recommendations to the City Council, which will guide
the development of city parks, trails and related ser-
vices and facilities. Commission terms are three . �
years and run from January to December.
If you are a resident of Oak Park Heights and are looking for an interesting and rewarding oppor-
tunity to participate in development and governance of Oak Park Heights, please visit the City's
website to download an application packet or stop by City Hall. Applications are due July 31.
If you have any questions, please contact Deputy Clerk Jennifer Pinski at (651) 439-4439 or via e
-mail at jpinski@cityofoakparkheights.com.
The City of Oak Park Heights is on Facebook!
"Like" the City's Facebook page at:
https://www.facebool<.com/pages/City-of-Oal<-Parl<-Heights/501816333214972
to receive up-to-date information on events, meetings, programs, and city news. `
Oak Park Heights Local Business & Development News
Welcome New Businesses:
Mainstream Boutique — 5815 Neal Avenue North
Sky Dragon — 5980 Neal Avenue North, Suite 600
Coming Soon:
Guardian Supply — 5659 Memorial Ave. N.
Salon Concepts - 5915 Norwich Ave. N.
Tree City USA Page 13
Five bighead carp captured in St. Croix River near Oak Park Heights
DNR News Release—June 2, 2015 ing in the Minnesota waters of the Mississippi
Five bighead carp were captured in the St. or St. Croix rivers.
Croix River in the past week, just south of Protection of the St. Croix River is important
Stillwater near the Xcel Energy Allen S. King to the DNR and its local and regional part-
power plant, according to the Minnesota De- ners. The DNR takes a multi-pronged ap-
partment of Natural Resources. proach based on the recently revised Minne-
This is the furthest upstream invasive carp sota Invasive Carp Action Plan:
have been detected in the St. Croix, and is • Monitoring for invasive carp by using tar-
about 7 miles north of the previous point. geted surveying and contracted commercial
Prior to these captures, four bighead carp fishing.
have been taken in the St. Croix River, dating • partnering with the University of Minneso-
back to 1996. ta's Aquatic Invasive Species Research
The DNR and anglers caught the fish. Center, federal agencies, and other univer-
sities researching ways to prevent the
""The DNR thanks the anglers who have re- spread and manage populations of invasive
ported the capture of bighead carp and have carp.
sent photos so they could be immediately
verified," said Nick Frohnauer, DNR invasive Actively participating in the Upper Missis-
fish coordinator. ""Knowing these details al- sippi River workgroup in implementing ac-
lowed our invasive carp crew to do follow up tions to combat invasive carp.
sampling in a timely manner." The DNR reminds anyone who catches a big-
The DNR responded with intensive sampling head, silver, black, or grass carp to immediate-
in an effort to determine if more invasive ly contact the DNR at 888-646-
carp are in the area. DNR staff set additional 6367 ornick.frohnauer()state.mn.us. Do not
gill nets and conducted electrofishing. Addi- release the fish. Take a photo, and store the
tionally, they are working with a contracted fish until it can be delivered to the DNR.
commercial fishing operator to seine a large For more information on invasive carp in Min-
bay. nesota, visit http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/
Silver and bighead carp are two of four spe- invasive-carp/index.html
cies of invasive carp threatening the Missis-
sippi River and other native ecosystems.
They can grow to 60 pounds, impacting the
base of the food chain by consuming large
amounts of plankton relied on by native fish.
Populations of bighead and silver carp are
established in the Mississippi River and its
tributaries from southern Iowa northward.
While bighead and silver carp have been
found as far north as Hastings, there is no `
evidence bighead or silver carp are reproduc-
Page 14 Summer 2015 Newsletter
St. Croix Crossing Construction Update
All work being done on Highway 36, including the business driveways, permanent striping and
signing, landscaping and the trials will be completed by the end of June.
St. Croix Crossing bridge construction is underway at all five piers in the river. Some summer
construction highlights are:
• Construction crews will be installing pre-cast river bridge
segments at Piers 8 and 9. Crews anticipate beginning to
place segments at Pier 12 in late summer. Crews will be
constructing the pier towers at these pier locations at the
same time they are placing segments that make up theas _'� `
driving surface of the new river crossing.
• Crews will be constructing the crossbeams and pier ta-
bles at Piers io and 11. The crossbeam connects the up-
stream and downstream columns at each pier location.
The pier table is constructed on-site in the shape of a seg-
ment. It is the first step in the bridge deck construction process.
• Crews will be constructing Pier 13 on the Wisconsin bluff. They will be employing a top-down
construction method in order to disturb as little of the bluff as possible.
Construction of the Minnesota approach will continue through the summer. Some portions are
cast-in-place, or built on-site, while other sections of the spans are constructed using segments
that are cast at the project's on-site casting yard near the Highway 36/95 interchange.
During this busy construction season, boaters are asked to respect the one-mile slow/no wake
worker safety zone in the St. Croix River between Stillwater and Bayport. Stay between the red
and green buoys that are there to guide boaters through the bridge construction site.
Public boat tours of the bridge construction site via the St. Croix Boat & Packet paddle boats are
back for a second season. Wednesday tours will occur from 12:30 to 2 p.m. and again from 3:30
to 5 p.m. Saturday tours will occur from 9 to 10:3o a.m. Tours are scheduled for the following
dates, rain or shine:
• Wednesday, June 17
• Saturday, June 20
• Saturday, July 18
• Wednesday, July 22 Go to www.stillwaterriverboats.com for reservation
• Saturday,Aug. 15 information and more details. Tickets are $10 for
• Wednesday,Aug. 19 adults and $6 for children ages 4 to 12.
• Saturday, Sept. 19
• Wednesday, Sept. 23
Stay connected
• Visit the project website: www.mndot.gov/stcroixcrossing (Sign up for weekly email updates)
• Call the hotline at 1-855-GO-CROIX (462-7649)
• Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/saintcroixcrossingmndot
• Follow us on Twitter @stcroixcrossing
• Stop by the office at 1862 Greeley St. S., Stillwater
Tree City USA Page 15
•----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CLIP AND SAVE!
July/August 2015
Summer Park Activities Schedule
;
All events are free! Look over the following schedule, and mark the dates on your calendar.
Please check the City's website for further updates on summer programming in the parks. ;
;
All ages are welcome to attend the activities. Children under six must be accompanied by an
adult. Pre-registration is appreciated for the craft activities. E-mail Gina at gzeuliCq.com
with number and ages of children attending.
;
July 7
Kids Bingo in the Park: Brekke Park, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
;
July 14
Minnesota Zoomobile Animal presentation: Autumn Hills Park, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
;
July 21
Craft in the Park— Clay and Sculpture: Brekke Park, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
;
July 28
Magic and Balloons: Autumn Hills Park, 10:30 a.m.
;
July 31
Family Movie in the Park: Autumn Hills Park. Movie begins at dark (approximately 9:30 p.m.).
Popcorn/beverages available for purchase.
August 4
Craft in the Park— Candle Art: Autumn Hills Park, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
August 4
Party in the Park:: Brekke Park, 4:30 p.m.
August I I
The Ridiculous Puppet Company Show: Autumn Hills Park, 10:30 a.m.
August 18
Craft in the Park— Mandalas & Mosaics: Oak Park Crossing Park, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
August 21
Family Movie in the Park: Autumn Hills Park. Movie begins at dark (approximately 8:45 p.m.)
Popcorn/beverages available for purchase.
;
August 25
Craft in the Park— Surprise!! Come to the park for a surprise activity.
Oak Park Crossing Park, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
------------------------------------------------
City of Oak Park Heights Presorted
14168 Oak Park Blvd N, Box 2007 standard
Oak Park Heights, MN 55082-2007 u.s.Postage
PAID
Twin Cities,MN
Permit No. 90100
City of Oak Park Heights City of Oak Park Heights
14168 Oak Park Blvd.N.
PO Box 2007 2015 PARTY IN THE PARK
Oak Park Heights,MN 55082
Phone:651-439-4439
Fax:65 1-439-0574 The City of Oak Park Heights invites all city residents to attend the
Police non-emergency:651-439-4723 2015 Party in the Park on National Night Out!
Police Emergency:91 1
Office Hours:
Tuesday, August 4, 2015 from 4:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m.
Monday through Friday Brekke Park (5500 Omar Avenue)
8:00 a.m.to 4:30 p.m.
excluding legal holidays
Come join the fun!
MAYOR chis
Hot dogs, s, and snow cones
Mary McComber:351-7879 g p
Live music
COUNCILMEMBERS
Chuck Dougherty:491-0419 Prize raffle
Mike Liljegren:351-2742 1 Children's games and activities
Mike Runk:439-5458
Mark Swenson:270-5385 Promotional items from city businesses
CITY ADMINISTRATOR
Eric Johnson The event is free and a great way to meet the City Council
and area business owners!
New Pickleball Court—Swager Park
Check out the new pickleball court at Swager Park!
Pickleball is a sport where two to four players volley a perforated ball
The Oak Park Heights over a net using solid paddles. It is great exercise and great fun!
newsletter
is published by the City
of Oak Park Heights. Swager Park is located in the 5800 block of 58th Street tucked between
Comments are welcome. two neighborhoods. Parking is located off of Olene Avenue.
651-439-4439