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Inside this issue:
City Hall Facility Update
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Pet Owner 2 The construction of the City all Facili did com-
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Are ro Required eral time -line for the entire project as well as
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numerous dated photos of the progress, which to t" "
City Meeting 3 date largely includes sites clearance, excava- P'
Dates [ tions for footings and earl footing installation.
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Emerald Ash 4 j While the area could use additional rain showers,
Borer Information [ the lack of inclement weather has provided the
Valley View Park 4
City's Contractor, Jorgenson Construction, excel-
Playground lent building conditions.
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Arborist 5 Points of Interest:
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News
• While the City did perform typical soil -test Visit the City's website for photos of the
Recycling b borings prior to the construction, until the construction progress.
Reminders earth is removed, soil conditions are an un-
Redevelopment 7 known. When the underground conditions
Along Oakgreen were actually exposed the City was fortu- asbestos tiles and other minor hazards that
Notes from 7 [ nate not to have required additional soil re- will be required to be removed and disposed
Public Works placement or compaction. of at proper facilities.
Storm 8 • The general site plan was adjusted slightly, The City will be implementing a major "data
Preparedness shortening a driveway so as to persevere digitization" effort prior to the move to the
Washington 8 additional trees along the western lot -line. new City Hall Facility. The vast amounts of
County Sirens stored records are hoped to be largely con- I
• The location of the GEOTHERMAL well lensed into accessible data files so that
Planning for 9 field, slated to be located north and east of there will not be a need to relocate these to
an Emergency the new Facility may shift to address con- the new City Hall Facility. The City is re-
Recreational 9 cerns associated with its proximity to Xcel quired, at a minimum, to follow the State
Fires Energy Transmission lines, the concern be- Historical Society's Retention Requirements
2008 WATER 10 [ ing the height of the "drill -rig" used for instal- for all records and materials. With such dig -
QUALITY REPORT lation. This issue is still under investigation. itization, hard -copy storage requirements will
be reduced and the ability to effectively re-
Police Files 13 j • The current City Hall will be undergoing final trieve records will increase.
asbestos /lead testing in the roof structure
Summer Park 14 this summer /early fall. With such data, the Should any persons want additional information
Programs City is able to perform all final abatements in about the City Hall Facility project or would like to
the current structure prior it is demolition in schedule a site tour please contact Eric Johnson,
Spring 2010. Earlier testing of other areas of City Administrator at 651 - 439 -4439.
the current City Hall found typical use of
Summ T ime Fun
Summer is here! Time for getting outside! This means bike riding, jumping on the trampoline, cooling off
in the pool and evening recreational fires. Please take note that the City's Zoning Ordinance requires rec-
reational equipment, such as trampolines and swimming pools, to be located in the side or rear yards.
If you have a pool or plan on purchasing one, please take a few minutes to review the ordinance for City
requirements and the definition of a pool or structure that retains water. The ordinance is available on
the City's website.
There are local retailers selling inflatable pools that have side walls less than 48 inches. These pools do
not require a security fence but are to be located within a fenced area.
When in doubt about the regulations for your recreational equipment, please call City Hall.
Attention et Owners
Leash Law Reminder Pet Licenses
The City of Oak Park Heights has a leash law in effect that All dogs and cats in the City for more than 30 days are
prohibits pets from running at large. Any dog or cat that is required to have a City Pet License. There is no charge for
off the premises of the owner and not under the physical this service and it could save your pet from a trip to the
control (by leash or by voice) of the owner or another des- animal shelter. Bring proof of your pet's rabies vaccina-
ignated person is in violation of this Ordinance. tion to City Hall to receive a pet license and tag.
When you are out walking your pet, please remember to For more information, please call
bring plastic bag. Pet owners are required b City Ordi- City Hall at 651 - 439 -4439.
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clean nance to proper disposal waste public twa t e private pe Cit Y a s wbsitean be viewed on Illy
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City clean and healthy. www.cityofoakparkheights.com
R esi d e n tial Dec
Residential decks provide an ounce of aesthetic beauty to homes in our City, along with a con-
venient spot to sit back and entertain the neighbors. There is just something about a deck that
shouts relaxation. But before you start digging holes and pouring concrete, it is important to
learn about the City's requirements and restrictions regarding deck construction.
It is the resident's responsibility to ensure that a permit has been issued for the project, whether
they are constructing it themselves or by hiring a contractor. They must also ensure that appro-
priate plans have been submitted and approved by the City's Building Official and that all the re-
quired inspections have been made.
Obtaining a permit for the construction of your deck is the most effective way to ensure that the
structure is safe as possible for you, your family, and your guests. Contact the City Building Offi-
cial before building and you will be sitting out on your deck in no time!
Considering a yard sale?
Consider your signage - Oak Park Heights City Ordinance 401.15.G. set7ort
regulations for signage within the City. The purpose of the ordinance is to provide
regulation of sign aspects in order to promote public health, safety and welfare,
while striving to maintain, enhance and improve the visual appearance of the City.
A temporary sign permit is not required for placing your yard sale sign, though the
following rules are to be followed:
• Signs are to be freestanding. Please do not attach them to trees, fences,
utility poles or other permanent post structures.
• Signs are not allowed within a public right -of -way or any other location that
creates a visual obstruction.
• Signs are to be no larger than 12 square feet in size and shall not contain or
imitate a traffic sign or signal.
• Signs are to be removed at the end of the sale.
House Numbers Are Required
€ Not only are house numbers required by the City's Zoning City Meetings
Ordinance, they are essential for people to find you. Not::
: is it important that the pizza delivery person find you it. City Council:
is critical for emergency response groups, such as the police 2nd and 4th Tuesdays at
€ department, fire department and emergency medical re- 7 :00 p.m.
sponders to assist you as quickly as possible.
To make it easy to locate your home, your house numbers Planning Commission:
:should be: 2nd Thursday at 7:00 p.m.
€ o A minimum of 3 inches in height Parks Commission:
o Made of a durable, weather resistant material such as 3rd Monday at 6:30 p.m.
metal, glass, plastic, etc.
o A color that stands out with the house or background!
upon which they are placed such as dark numbers against a City meetings are broad-
: light background cast live on cable channel
€ o Easily and clearly seen from the street when approached € 16.
from any direction. You may want to consider having the
numbers coated with a reflective material for better visibility:
at dark or locating them beneath a light source Agendas and Minutes are
o Attached to your home or a sign post that faces the street : posted on the City's web -
site:
If your home does not have house numbers on it, please www.city
make it a priority to get them put on today.
Emerald Ash Borer
An exotic insect from Asia has been found feeding on ash trees in St. Paul. This insect, the emerald ash
borer (EAB), feeds on all ash species, and can kill trees in 1 -3 years. The presence of this insect has not
yet been confirmed in Washington County. A few facts about EAB:
— EAB only attacks ash
— EAB prefers to attack stressed ash, but can also attack healthy trees
— Adult beetles are ' /2 -inch long and metallic green larval stage forms "S "-
shaped galleries under bark while feeding adults exiting trees form 1/8 in.
"D "- shaped exit holes in bark top dieback of branches, thinning of tree o
canopy and splits in the bark may be symptoms of EAB attack woodpecker
feeding damage on trees may be a sign of EAB larvae under bark this insect �il�i�l "rNtiul
does not fly far, but travels easily in bark - intact ash wood
What you can do: Ash tree leaf
— Check your ash trees for signs /symptoms of EAB
— Check the following Minn. Dept. of Agriculture website for images showing
symptoms of EAB, the insect and feeding damage: www.mda.state.mn.us /
plants /pestmanagement/eab.htm. You can also use this website to access a
checklist to see if you might have a tree with EAB Emerald Ash Borer
— If you capture an insect, compare it to photos of EAB and look -alike insects (images of EAB
and look - alikes are posted at City Hall as well as available on -line at the web address above)
— Water your ash tree during dry periods — EAB prefers to attack stressed trees
— Insecticide treatments for valuable landscape trees - experts are not recommending insecticide
treatment of ash unless there is a confirmed infestation within 10 -15 miles of the tree
— Contact City Arborist Kathy Widin to make a site visit to look at your trees
— Plant a variety of tree species and do not plant more ash
— There is no need to remove healthy ash trees at this time
— Don't move bark - intact ash wood from the area and use local sources of wood when camping
Valley View Park Playground ar News
The City will be updating the Valley View Park Playground Park use is up in 2009. The City's disc golf
with significant new playground equipment as the current course at Brekke has proven very popu-
equipment has excessive wear and is approximately 20 lar, and the new tennis courts at Swager
years old. The upgrade costs are $40,000, and it is antici- are attracting new players. The pres-
pated to be completed by mid - August. The swing -set and ence of extra visitors in the parks also dis-
large slide will remain in place. courages vandalism as the City has had
in the past. Our trail system is becoming
an outstanding resource. Please help
keep our resources in good shape for all
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' up after your pets. Please immediately
report vandalism or unacceptable be-
havior to the police. Enjoy the Parks and
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trails.
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Boulevard Trees
New and replacement boulevard trees will be planted by the City in late August � s? 7
2008. If you are interested in having a tree planted in the boulevard right -of -way Tree
between your home and the street, please contact the Arborist at 439 -4439 Ext.
252. Trees are planted within about 10 feet of the street and there must be If yoti are an
enough room, away from driveways, mailboxes, utility boxes, and other trees, for Oak Park
the tree to attain a healthy maturity. Species often planted in the boulevard are: H e i g h t s
red maple, honeylocust, linden, hackberry, bicolor oak and flowering crab.
resident, and
------------------------- ---- have a problem
O ak Ant arose with a tree or
This leaf blight and twig canker disease is caused by a fungus and is usually seen in the shrub, such as
spring on white and bur oaks. The infection causes the edges of the leaves to turn dark an insect or a
brown and curl inward, shriveling the leaf. In severe cases the tree will lose the in- disease, have
fected leaves and produce new leaves the same season. Usually anthracnose is confined
to the lower part of the leaf canopy, but in wet seasons it may infect leaves clear to the p 1 a n t i n g
top of the tree. The fungus overwinters on fallen leaves and on twigs and branches, in- questions, or
fecting newly developing leaves the following spring. Once symptoms are seen, spraying jt1st want to
is of no use in the current year. Not all white or bur oaks will be equally infected. On have a plant
large, otherwise healthy, trees it is not usually necessary to control this disease. Oak
anthracnose is often confused with oak wilt, a serious disease which attacks all oak spe- identified, call
cies. Oak anthracnose affects only white and bur oaks, and appears in the spring, while D r. Ka thy
oak wilt usually is most evident on red and northern pin oaks in July and August. Oak Widin, the OPH
anthracnose also infects leaves more heavily on the lower portion of the canopy and Arborist, at 439 -
oak wilt often causes trees to wilt from the top down. 4439 Ett. 252.
O ak ilt She can either
answer your
Do not prune oaks bet' een April lit and September 15th to avoid creating �� ounds question over
'which attract the insects that spread the oali ' ilt fungus (the came of a fatal disease the phone or
of oaks). If oaks are pruned or w ounded during this period (especially those 'wounded make a n
April l--t to Jul lit). paint the 'wound immediately 'with either a tree wound dressing,
varnish. or latex house paint. Painting 'wounds 'will keep them front being attractive appointment for
to the insects 'which spread oali ' ilt. All oak species are susceptible to this disease. If a site visit. This
� have an oak 'which looks sickly or suddenly 'wilts front the top do' n. contact the service is paid
OPH Arborist. at 439 -4439 Ext. 'i', for an inspection and management information. for by the City Of
____________________________________ _______________________________ Oak Park
Du tch l isease Heights.
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This disease is similar to oak wilt and is both public and private property,
g g positively also re within Oak Park Hei which have been ositivel dia g-
American elms are the most susceptible. nosed with oak wilt or Dutch elm dis-
Elms dying from other causes can also har- ease, respectively . If you have an
bor elm bark beetles which spread the fun- oak or elm which looks sickly, con -
gus to healthy trees. tact the Arborist at 439 -4439 Ext.
252 for an inspection and manage -
In Oak Park Heights, the city will remove ment information.
currently wilting red /pin oaks and elms, on
What is included in trash pickup
In addition to the typical garbage and recycling pickup, the VE 0 L I A
City also covers the disposal of yard waste, large household E II" V 1II F-1- 0ll l „III " "f"
items, and white- goods' such as televisions, refrigerators, SERVK °°
couches, chairs, desks, water - heaters, stoves, dishwashers, dryers, etc. In order to have these
items picked up in a timely fashion, please contact Judy Tetzlaff at City Hall, 651 - 439 -4439, at
least two days prior to collection day so that the special truck may be dispatched to your home.
Some items are not included in your monthly fee are extra bags of garbage not placed in your
container. The City's waste hauler, Veolia, will bill you $1.50 per bag. Some other items that
are picked up for a fee are carpet, sinks, toilets and construction debris. You will be billed by
Veolia at a regulated rate as monitored by the City.
In the event you receive any billing from Veolia, except for the Annual Washington County En-
vironmental Charge, please contact the City Administrator at 651- 439 -4439 to ensure that the
billing is correct.
REMINDERH
Waste and Recyclable pick -up is every THURSDAY, unless the week contains one of the six
holidays – New Years Day, Memorial Day, 4 of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas.
During those weeks, collection will fall on FRIDAY.
Recycling incentive program ow to sort your recycling
The City of Oak Park Heights has a recycling Materials collected by Veolia for recycling
incentive program. The City awards a prize must be sorted into two categories to make
Of $25.00 or a fire extinguisher and /or sure they get recycled. Use paper bags and
smoke detector. Residents participating in recycling bins to separate your materials. Do
curbside recycling are picked randomly twice not use plastic bags. Place textiles in a
a month. separate paper bag from everything else.
Please also make sure that recyclable prod -
Recycling benefits the environment in count- ucts are securely packed so as to prevent
less ways: it reduces the amount of natural items from falling or blowing out of the recy-
resources used to make new products, it cling bins.
saves energy, it prevents water and air pollu-
tion including greenhouse gas emissions, and Paper & Cardboard Bottles & Cans
it reduces waste. This means that the simple
act of recycling in your daily life provides sig- Newspapers .Steel and Alumi-
nificant protection for our environment and Magazines, Mail num Cans and Foil
reduces global warming. and Office Paper .Glass bottles and
Corrugated Card- jars (any color)
Need another recycling bin, contact City Hall board . Milk cartons and
at 439 -4439• Recycling bins are available for • Boxboard /soda juice boxes
pickup at City Hall during regular business boxes . Plastic bottles
hours. There is no fee for an additional bin. • Phonebooks (1 and 2)
SOMEONE !1! 1 illi 11
Site redevelopment along Oakgreen Avenue
In June, the City Council ap- summer. (s) /development is allocated
proved a $20 million dollar to reimburse a developer for
redevelopment plan and TIF Note on TIF, the City Council certain eligible costs. The
proposal for the lands lo- has approved the use of City has not pledged any di-
cated on the west side of (TIF) Tax Increment Financ- rect funding to this proposal
Oakgreen Ave, north of 58 ing that assists the developer and the developer will only
Street. This plan includes the in pursuing their proposal. In receive TIF funds when the
removal of the six vacant this project, tax increment project is completed and
homes (via fire training — see proceeds, up to $1.2 million generates new tax revenues
article below) and will include (principal), are being allo- beyond what was originally
the construction of a four- cated for site acquisition and derived from such sites. This
story, 120 -unit Senior As- demolition, in this instance City is not directly funding
sisted Living Facility and a being the purchase and re- any portion of this proposal
60 -unit Senior Cooperative moval of the six homes along via its general taxing author -
Housing Facility. Site and Oakgreen Ave. Tax incre- ity nor is it issuing any pass -
building plans are available ment financing is a mecha- through financing for the Be-
at City Hall. Work is antici- nism whereby the increased veloper.
pated to commence this tax capacity of new structure
Fire training
The Bayport Fire Department, along with other regional fire departments have been holding training exercises/
practice burns at the homes along the west side of Oakgreen Ave. These efforts may have caused some travel de-
lays and other nuisances. The City of Oak Park Heights does appreciate the demonstrated patience in this effort as
training exercises of this type are rare and allow fire fighters from numerous departments to experience the best
possible simulations for rescue and practice fire knock -down techniques. This will result in more lives saved and /or
more property preserved. The City has required that all asbestos /lead paint and other hazardous materials be re-
moved from the sites and which has been documented prior to any significant training exercises involving "total
burns" and removals.
Notes from Public Works
The annual maintenance of the fire hydrants will begin late June. The city flushes and lubricates every hydrant
to remove any sand and bring fresh water through the entire system. This also identifies any hydrants that are
hard to operate or that have been damaged for repairs. You may see crews through the rest of the summer.
Please assist the City in maintaining the road right of way next to your property. Homeowner's get extra grass
and boulevard area for use, with the requirement the homeowner maintain that area. Grass and bushes can
interfere with snow, sweeping or visibility.
There are many construction projects going on this summer. There is curb replacement and mill and overlay
of selected streets and Brekke Park parking lot. There is a seal coat project on 58' and around Norwich and
Memorial Avenues. Some additional shoulder work will be done with the Memorial work. Storm sewer re-
placement near 53" and O'Brien is an additional project. Please drive carefully whenever workers or equip-
ment is present.
If you have any questions about upcoming projects, call Public Works at 651- 439 -4439.
Emil
S torm re are ess in a P ark e i t
Residents should be advised that the City of Oak Park Heights maintains an Emergency Preparedness 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 under-
ground, 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 household usage.
Downed power lines can be the most dangerous aspect of storm clean -up, and residents are requested 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 underground in most areas, how-
ever 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 provide relief
and resources in the event of a storm event and /or where electricity outages may be several days. Please
visit www.codeready.org or www.fema.gov /plan /prepare /basickit.shtm for a listing of what every house-
hold or place of business should have in their Emergency Preparedness Kit.
Lastly, in the event of a significant storm, you should contact City Hall at 651- 439 -4439 for information on
clean -up and response. Or, if you are able, check the City's website for "Storm Response 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 Washington County Sheriff's Department tests
all sirens at 1:oo p.m. on the first Wednesday of the month from March through October. The
criteria for activating the sirens is as follows: when a tornado warning is issued for Washington
County by the National Weather Service; when the National Weather Service indicates sustained
wind speed of 76 miles per hour or more; or when a City or County Public Safety Official re-
quests activation due to imminent danger to life and /or property.
Monitor weather information sources and watch the weather itself for any
changes that could endanger you or those around you. Make preparations
to initiate your emergency plans. Consider canceling outdoor activities. If
you are in a mobile home, travel trailer or recreational vehicle, consider !9i6
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moving to shelter as the storms move into your area before warnings are
es pecially if these are fast moan storms. Stay informed and be I
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Planning for an erect' 7
Preparing for an emergency makes sense. First, prepare an emergency kit. Consider how an emer-
gency might affect your individual needs. Plan to make it on your own for at least three days. It's
possible that you will not have access to a medical facility or even a drugstore. It is crucial that you
and your family think about what kinds of resources you use on a daily basis and what you might do
if those resources are limited or not available. Some basic supplies you should have in your kit are:
• Water: one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days
• Food: at least a three -day supply of non - perishable food and a can opener if your kit contains
canned food
• Battery powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra bat-
teries for both
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Whistle to signal for help
• Dust mask to help filter contaminated air
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Local maps
• Pet food, extra water and supplies for your pet
Second, make a plan. Your family may not all be together when disaster strikes so plan how you
will contact one another. You may need to decide to stay or go so make a plan for both scenarios.
Plan two ways out of every room in the case of a fire. For more information on how to plan for an
emergency, visit www.ready.gov.
Recreational Fires
Recreation fires are per- leave a burning fire unat- rubber will also give off
mitted in Oak Park Heights tended! toxic fumes if burned. Ma-
but there are a few things terials such as leaves and
you should know. First of Only clean, dry wood other yard waste will
all, your fire pit must be should be used for a rec- cause excessive smoke
thirty six inches or less in reational fire. It is espe- which is prohibited by City
diameter and flames cially hazardous to burn ordinance. In addition, it is
should be no higher than material such as treated illegal in the State of Min -
two feet. The fire should wood in your backyard nesota to burn household
be monitored by a com- fire pit because recrea- waste.
petent adult with a gar- tional fires burn at a low
den hose or fire extin- temperature which pro- Lastly, be a good
guisher readily available in duces a large volume of neighbor — locate your fire
the event of an emer- smoke. The smoke carries where it won't send smoke
gency. Make sure your toxic fumes which can be into your neighbor's yard
fire is completely extin- harmful to people gath- or house and also be
guished when you are ered around the fire. aware of wind conditions
done and never, ever Painted wood, plastic and and burning bans.
2008 CONSUMER CONFIDENCE REPORT
CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS
14168 Oak Park Blvd N.• Box 2007 Oak Park Heiahts. MN -(6�1)439-4439 - Fax 439-0 74
PWSID: 1,00020
2008 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 I to De-
cember 31, 2008. 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
10 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 vou wish to obtain the entire
source water assessment regarding ) drinking water, please call 651- 201 -4700 or 1-800-818-9318 (and press 5) during normal
business hours. Also, vou can view it on line at iii v.health.state.mn.us /diN /eh/ii ater /sii /sil a.
Call Tom Ozzello, Public Works Director, at 651-439-4439 if vou 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
No contaminants were detected at levels that violated federal drinking water standards. However, some contaminants were de-
tected in trace amounts that were below legal limits. The table that follows shows the contaminants that were detected in trace
amounts last rear. (Some contaminants are sampled less frequently than once a year as a result, not all contaminants were sam-
pled for in 2008. 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 W 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.
pCi/1—PicoCuries per liter (a measure of radioactivity).
ppb—Parts per billion, which can also be expressed as micrograms per liter (µg/l).
ppm—Parts per million, which can also be expressed as milligrams per liter (mg/1).
N/A—Not Applicable (does not apply).
1.
Level Found
Contaminant (units) MCLU MCL Range Average/ Typical Source of Contaminant
Result*
Fluoride (ppm) 1 1 1.2 -1. State of Minnesota requires all municipal
water sv stems to add fluoride to the
drinking water to promote strong teeth:
Erosion of natural deposits: Discharge
Nitrate (as Nitro- 10 10 N/A 2.7 Runoff from fertilizer use: Leaching from
gen) (ppm) septic tanks, sewage Erosion of natural
Total Coliform Bae- O present >1 present N/A 1 Naturally present in the environment.
Follow-up sampling showed no contamination present.
Level Found
Contaminant (units) Typical Source of Contaminant
Range Average/
(- ()()8) Result*
Radon ( pCi /1) (10/04/2005) N/A ;17 Erosion of natural deposits.
*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 rear.
Radon is a radioactive gas which is naturally occurring in some groundwater. It poses a lung cancer risk when gas is released from
water into air (as occurs during showering, bathing, or washing dishes or clothes) and a stomach cancer risk when it is ingested.
Because radon in indoor air poses a much greater health risk than radon in drinking water, an Alternative Maximum Contaminant
Level (AMCL) of 4,000 picoCuries per liter may apply in states that have adopted an Indoor Air Program, which compels citizens,
homeowners, schools, and communities to reduce the radon threat from indoor air. For states without such a program, the Maxi-
mum Contaminant Level (MCL) of ,00 pCi /1 may apply. Minnesota plans to adopt an Indoor Air Program once the Radon Rule is
finalized.
Contaminant 90% Level # sites over
( units) AL
Copper (ppm) N/A 1.; ; 0 out of _10 Corrosion of household plumbing s� stems:
Erosion of natural deposits.
Lead (ppb) N/A 15 4 0 out of _ Corrosion of household plumbing systems-1
Erosion of natural deposits.
If present, infants and children who drink water containing lead in excess of the action level could experience delays in their physi-
cal or mental development. Children could shoe slight deficits in attention span and learning abilities. Adults who drink this N a-
ter over mangy rears could develop kidney problems or high blood pressure. 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 components. When your water has been sit-
ting for several hours, you can minimize the potential for lead exposure by flushing y our tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before
using water for drinking or cooping. If you are concerned about lead in your water, you may Nish to have your water tested. In-
formation on lead in drinking water, testing methods, and steps you can tape to minimize exposure is available from the Safe
Drinking Water Hotline or at http: / /N\ N\ N\ .epa. go\ /safeNN ater /lead.
1.
Some contaminants do not have Maximum Contaminant Levels established for them. These unregulated contaminants are as-
sessed using state standards known as health risk limits to determine if they pose a threat to human health. If unacceptable levels
of an unregulated contaminant are found, the response is the same as if an MCL has been exceeded: the N ater system must inform
its customers and tape other corrective actions. In the table that follows are the unregulated contaminants that N ere detected:
Level Found
Contaminant (units) Range Average/ Typical Source of Contaminant
(2()()8) Result
Sodium (ppm) (09/04/2007) N/A 6 Erosion of natural deposits.
Sulfate ( ppm) ( 09/04/2007) N/A 732 Erosion of natural deposits.
Compliance with National Primary Drinking Water Regulations
The sources of drinking N ater (both tap N ater and bottled N ater) include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and
N ells. As N ater 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 N ater include:
_Microbial cuntarninants, such as viruses and bacteria, which may come from seN age treatment plants, septic systems
agricultural livestock operations, and wildlife.
Inorganic contaminants, such as salts and metals, which can be naturally-occurring or result from urban storm ater run-
off, industrial or domestic wastewater discharges, oil and gas production, mining, or farming.
PE stickle s aml hE rhicitle s. which may come from a variety of sources such as agriculture, urban stormw ater runoff, and
residential uses.
Organic chemical contaminants, including synthetic and volatile organic chemicals, which are by ❑ products of industrial
processes and petroleum production, and can also come from gas stations, urban storm ater runoff, and septic systems.
Rathoactive 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 N ater is safe to drink, the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency ( EPA) prescribes regulations which
limit the amount of certain contaminants in N ater provided by public N ater systems. Food and Drug Administration regulations
establish limits for contaminants in bottled N ater 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 N ater 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 nuiy be more vithteruble to contaoninants in drinking irater thin 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 innnune , system disorders, some elderh•, and infants can be pa ticularty at risk from infections. These
people ,should ,seek advice about drinking waterfront their health care providers. EPAICI)C guidelines on appropriate meants
to lessen the risk of infection bt• Crtptosporiditmt are available from the Safe Drinking iVuter Hotline at 1 ❑ 8001142611 4791.
SOMEONE
Oak ark Heights Police Files
From the desk of Chief Brian DeRosier
II I
There have been some noteworthy changes to public safety law that affect us all.
These were made in this last session of the MN Legislature. You may have already heard
about these changes in the media. I would like to make sure we all understand what
has been presented to law enforcement across the state as new changes and how
those affect us all. Our officers receive frequent questions about the child restraint laws
every year. These laws will have taken effect by the time you are reading this. I realize
there are many wide and varied opinions on the seat belt laws, and I do not want to
debate those. I do recommend they be used, as I have many times seen the ramifica-
tions of not doing so, even minor accidents can cause significant injury or loss of control
of the vehicle without the use of a restraint.
Seat belt use by all persons in a passenaer motor vehicle regardless of position within
the vehicle is mandatory. This means those in the back seats are also required to wear
them. This includes both the lap and shoulder portions of the belt, so do not tuck the
shoulder belt under your arm.
Child passenger restraint systems meeting federal guidelines are required for ALL chil-
dren meeting BOTH of the following criteria: Under 4'9" and Under 8 years old. Persons 8
years old and older are not required to be in a restraint system different than the normal
seat belt even if they are not 4'9 ".
f you have detailed questions there are resources available on the state web site:
www.dps.state.mn.us /ots. Our officers can provide you with general information and
double check your child restraint system installation, however due to liability considera-
tions we cannot do the actual installation for you. There are several recommended sys-
tems that vary by age and size of the child. The state web site has specific information
of those guidelines.
Drivers may be stopped and cited for these violations as a primary offense, meaning no
other violation has to be observed.
Have a fun and safe summer. Drive safely on your way to the summer events you par-
ticipate in, and be aware while biking or walking to our parks and around the city.
City of Oak Park Heights
14168 Oak Park Blvd. N. SUMMER PROGRAMS IN CITY S
PO Box 2007
Oak Park Heights, MN 55082 This summer the City of Oak Park Heights is implementing its first summer parks program! All events
Phone: 651 - 439 -4439 are free! Look over the following schedule, and mark the dates on your calendar.
Fax: 651- 439 -0574 Please check the City's website for further updates on summer programming in the parks.
Police non- emergency: 651- 439 -4723
Police Emergency: 911 July 11 —Kids Bingo in the Park —all ages: join us at Brekke Park from 10 am to noon. Bingo for candy
and prizes. No pre - registration is required.
Office Hours:
Monday through Friday July 14— Crafts in the Park —all ages, children 6 and under must be accompanied by an adult: Summer
8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Fun Frames at Brekke Park from 10 am to noon. Come paint and decorate a frame with a summer
excluding legal holidays theme. Pre - registration is appreciated. E -mail gzeuli @q.com with the number and ages of children at-
tending.
MAYOR July 24 —First Annual Kids Disc Golf Tournament —ages 6 and up: come to Brekke Park for a chance to
David Beaudet: 439 -2582 t the new disc golf course. The tournament sign up begins at 4 pm with some quick instruction at about
COUNCILMEMBERS 4:15 and tournament start at 4:30. Discs will be provided to registered players.
Les Abrahamson: 351 - 0807
Mary McComber: 351 -7879 July 28— Crafts in the Park —all ages, children 6 and under must be accompanied by an adult: Stepping
Mike Runk: 439 -5458 stones and painting rocks at Autumn Hills Park from 10 am to noon. Come to the park and create a step -
Mark Swenson: 439
ping stone and paint a cook rock. Pre - registration is appreciated. E - mail gzeuli @q.com with number
CITY ADMINISTRATOR and ages of children attending.
Eric Johnson
July 30— Family Movie in the Park: come to Autumn Hills Park for an outdoor movie! The movie will
begin at dusk and popcorn /beverages will be available for purchase.
Visit our Website!
August 4 —Party in the Park —all ages. Brekke Park from 5 to 7pm for free food, fun, and prizes. There
will be face painting, balloon animals, and live music.
August 11— Crafts in the Park —all ages, children 6 and under must be accompanied by an adult: 10 am
The Oak Park Heights to noon at Brekke Park, activity yet to be determined. Pre - registration is appreciated. E -mail
news letter gzeuli @q.com with number and ages of children attending.
is published by the City of
Oak Park Heights. August 27— Family Movie in the Park: come to Autumn Hills Park for an outdoor movie! The movie will
Comments are welcome. j begin at dusk and popcorn /beverages will be available for purchase.
651- 439 -4439
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