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FN October 2013Would you like to have a safe route to bike to the drug store or to run errands? What about walking to a bus stop and waiting for it out of traffic? The vision behind the new Active Transportation Plan is to provide safe transportation opportunities for all residents of Fridley, as we travel around the community of Fridley—going to work, to school, to shop or to use City services. The plan’s purpose is to safely accommodate all modes of transportation in the right locations for each. This includes pedestrians, cars, trucks, bicyclists, buses, commuter train users, skateboarders and users of personal mobility devices like wheelchairs—even Segways! Adoption of the Active Transportation Plan provides guidance for the location and construction of new trails and walks. Once incorporated into the City’s Zoning Code, any property that redevelops along designated routes will be required to install trail or sidewalks along that particular street to coordinate with a future, more extensive network of trails. Fill the Gaps in Walks and Trails The plan will provide direction moving forward with improvements to linkages needed for these modes, and fill in gaps in existing systems like sidewalks. Providing improved maintenance for existing walks and trails along with any new additions to the network is an important element. Priority areas for routes around the City were developed through a process that included public participation events. Volunteers on an Active Transportation Committee, residents and senior citizens all provided input to identify streets or routes, maintenance challenges and areas of concern. Safe Routes to School Increasing concentration and fighting childhood obesity can be accomplished by children simply walking to and from school. Attention was given to working with school system transportation specialists to target routes to school. Bike parking at locations like Fridley Middle School and the major City parks has been installed and will be emphasized in new locations. Mobility Challenges Besides focusing on filling trail gaps, the Active Transportation Plan recognizes the need to provide better access to mass transit and basic service needs to people with disabilities. An emphasis of the plan was to provide improved mobility options for for all ages and all abilities. October 2013 No. 184 A report to the citizens of Fridley 6431 University Avenue NE Fridley, MN 55432 phone: 763-571-3450 www.FridleyMN.gov e-mail: info@FridleyMN.gov C O M M U N I T Y R E P O R T PRESORTED STD U.S. Postage PAID Twin Cities, MN Permit NO. 92886 Mayor – Scott J. Lund Councilmember-at-Large – Robert L. Barnette Councilmember 1st Ward – James T. Saefke Councilmember 2nd Ward – Dolores M. Varichak Councilmember 3rd Ward – Ann R. Bolkcom City Manager – Wally Wysopal Park the Car for Better Health Since walking, bicycling and using other modes of non- auto transit as transportation choices improves health, Fridley joined many other Minnesota communities by adopting this Plan. Designing for active living reduces the barriers to routine physical activity and enhances community connectivity and safety for those who bicycle, walk and use the bus in our community. In 2010, the City received State Health Improvement Program (SHIP) grant funds that financed a study of the pedestrian and cycling route needs in the community. For 2012 - 2013, the City received additional SHIP funds that allowed City staff to complete a plan to address the challenges and gaps identified from the study. The new pedestrian/bike trail plan and an Active Transportation map were developed. Winter Maintenance of Walks and Trails The Plan recognized that future improvements to non- motorized transportation routes would be wasted in the winter months if snow and ice removal needs were not addressed. Code changes for the City Council’s consideration regarding snow removal on existing sidewalks, bus benches and shelters will be forthcoming. The Plan emphasizes increased vigilance by property owners regarding ice removal on walks to promote their use in winter. Design for Safety The Plan places particular emphasis on pedestrian safety and improved accessible walking routes because other non-auto transit modes often include a walking segment. Fridley is trying to reduce preventable on- road pedestrian and bicycle accidents and casualties, which have been on the rise in Minnesota. With so many major highways dividing the City, the Plan notes that although not all modes of transportation on all roads will be appropriate, safe and convenient, navigation of the community should be available to young and old, fit and mobility-challenged, independent of income. Read More About It If you like to walk or bike, look for the newly created Active Transportation map on the City web site at www.FridleyMN.gov or at the City offices. If you have questions, contact Kay Qualley, Environmental Planner, City of Fridley, (763) 572- 3594 or Kay.Qualley@FridleyMN.gov. Getting Around Safely Fridley Are you creative? Do you like the smell of pumpkin guts on a frosty October evening? We are ready for you! We have the pumpkins, tools, and patterns. You supply the skill and talent. Together we will be a winning combination. Call the Nature Center to book your time slot! Springbrook Nature Center 100 85th Ave, Fridley • 763.572.3588 Fridley and surrounding communities have been longtime hosts to strong local branches of national and international organizations such as the Lions, Rotary, American Legion & Auxiliary, VFW, and Kiwanis.These clubs each spearhead multiple projects aimed at relieving health and social problems, promoting high ethical standards and fostering patriotism and community pride. The mission of the award-winning Columbia Heights-Fridley Kiwanis Club is to change the world by focusing on youth. As their statement proclaims: “We exist to build future leaders for our world.” They support our area’s highly active Key Clubs, which are volunteer organizations for high schoolers, as well as global outreach. O If you enjoy working with kids, there are several more youth support organizations to consider as well. Kinship of Greater Minneapolis is an organization spurred by the observation that “many young people in our community are missing the positive, sustained adult relationships they need to thrive.” Kinship partners kids with caring adult mentors that commit to spending quality time developing a trusting and supportive connection. Fridley Youth Sports Association is a volunteer group of residents that coordinates youth sports leagues. As a league director, coach, or assistant, you can help promote sportsmanship, fitness and fun. Regional Boy Scout and Girl Scout organizations can help connect volunteers with area troops in need of extra help. The Northern Star Council of Boy Scouts of America and the Girl Scouts of Minnesota and Wisconsin River Valleys are the regional groups that oversee metro area troops. Either by working directly with kids, or by supporting those that do, you can make a difference in the scouting program. O Some local philanthropic groups provide fellowship opportunities for specific demographic groups. Fridley Women of Today welcomes women 18 and older to help organize a variety of charitable events. Supporting the troops, fighting cancer, and gathering supplies for local food shelves are just a few of the great causes this club works for, all while offering a fun and social atmosphere. The Anoka County Retired Seniors Volunteer Program (RSVP)connects civic-minded seniors ages 55 and older with volunteer opportunities in area food shelves, adult education centers, hospitals and more. You can even sign up to be a walking courier in the Anoka County Court Administration--and get the chance to “stay fit and serve” at the same time! Single Volunteers of the Twin Cities brings unmarried individuals together to work on an array of projects across the metro. Once you have joined, you can become a group leader or sign up for an event that fits your availability. It’s a surefire way to make new friends who share your interests and commitment to service. O If you have a heart for your neighbors who are elderly, ill, or struggling, there are many ways to share your compassion. Tamarisk is a nonprofit organization founded in Fridley in 1993. According to Director of Programming Jeanne Haus, Tamarisk’s mission is “to make the difficult journey of life threatening illness easier by providing volunteer support at no cost to the families we serve.” Weekly visits from Tamarisk volunteers offer companionship to those who are ill and respite to the family members that regularly care for them. In addition to volunteer caregivers, Tamarisk is looking for bingo event team leaders, board members, and office assistants. Fridley’s Chores and More Program helps seniors in need of routine housekeeping, minor home repairs, and seasonal chores. Volunteers are needed for events such as the fall Rake-a-thon. Unity Hospital has a variety of volunteer openings for teens and adults. An orientation session is the first step for newcomers. Volunteers are then asked to commit to one 4-hour shift every two weeks, which can be conveniently scheduled online. O If you are interested in helping others obtain mental health services, contact Lee Carlson Center. They gratefully accept individuals and groups for volunteer assignments. Alexandra House provides services to victims of domestic and sexual abuse. Volunteers can apply to undergo training to serve as client advocates or childcare providers. Additional volunteer positions with fewer training requirements are available in the kitchen and other areas of the facility. Anoka County Mediation Services seeks volunteer mediators to help others come to peaceful resolutions to conflict. Applications can be found on their website. Our area’s branch of Meals on Wheels delivers nutritious food and provides a social connection to dozens of people who are unable to leave their homes. Speaking of wheels, Free2B Car Care Solutions is a car repair and car donation nonprofit that helps people obtain reliable vehicles. You can help out with your mechanical, cleaning, teaching, and hospitality skills. Volunteers are needed for events on designated days of the month in locations in Fridley and Ham Lake. If you would rather drive a car than fix one up, consider joining the Anoka County Volunteer Transportation Program, and help drive seniors to and from their weekday appointments. Volunteers must have a valid license, good driving record, auto insurance, and a vehicle in safe working order. O Many of our local arts and cultural organizations are buoyed by the support and enthusiasm of their volunteers. “We love volunteers,” says Bethany Whitehead, Executive Director of the Banfill-Locke Center for the Arts. She is currently looking for additional people to serve at the front desk and in the office, as well as to help with a painting project in the building’s interior. “If anyone has painting experience, we'd love to hear from them.” O History and drama enthusiasts also have a calling in the City. The Fridley Community Theatre relies on volunteers to fill not only the on-stage roles but also many other positions, from set builders to ticket sellers, as they state in their online call to action: “It takes many people to successfully stage a production. Wherever your interests may lie–whether on the stage, behind the scenes or in the seats–there is a place for you.” page 2 F r i d l e y C o m m u n i t y R e p o r t Volunteering Builds Community Outstanding Senior Volunteer, Earl Hatten One day you will see him watering plants outside the Fridley Community Center. The next, he will be delivering lunch to a neighbor in need. Eighty- four-year-old Earl Hatten is well known for his volunteerism. It is not only the time and effort he puts in that is impressive, but also the variety of organizations he actively supports. Earl has been a Meals on Wheels volunteer since it came to our area 35 years ago, and he says the program benefits him as well as the people he serves. “I’ve made such good friends. We’ve been visiting some of the same people for many many years and it’s great. They appreciate the meal and I appreciate talking to them.” Earl is also a familiar face to the American Cancer Society, South Anoka Community Action, Fridley Senior Center, and St. Philip’s Lutheran Church. Ever humble about his noble life of service, Earl summarizes his volunteering philosophy simply: “You just do things as they come up. That’s what we’re here to do. We’re here to serve God and our neighbor.” This year, Earl was recognized at the state level as an Outstanding Senior for his volunteer work. He represented Anoka County at the Minnesota State Fair on Seniors Day 2013. Community members like Earl can be a wonderful inspiration to others looking to join in and give back. Fridley is full of people who strive to make a difference in the community, and their spirit of service can be contagious. Joining a volunteer organization in the area is a great way to spread positivity and strengthen neighborly bonds. No matter what your interests and skills, there is a volunteer opportunity for you. As Earl says, “There’s always plenty to do. No one should say, ‘I couldn’t find anywhere to volunteer.’” As for Earl Hatten, he shows no signs of slowing down. “Just the other day my son and his children came up to me and said, ‘We brought you something!’ It was three little evergreen trees. Now I’m thinking about where in the Senior Center garden I can plant them.” w w w .F r i d l e y M N .g o v page 3 Go the Extra Step When left in the street, leaves and yard debris can find their way into the sewers and eventually into lakes and rivers. Leaves contain nutrients that are harmful to our valuable waterways, so it is important to keep them out of City storm sewers. Go the extra step, and rake leaves that collect along your curb and near storm drains. Place them (along with other yard leaves and garden debris) into compostable bags and bring them to the Bunker Hills Regional Compost Site at 13285 Hanson Blvd., Coon Rapids (open M-F, 10 until sunset, Saturday 9-5 and Sunday, noon to 5). Another way to remove leaves from your property is to use a yard waste cart, a fee-based option offered by most garbage haulers. Contact them directly for information about yard waste carts. For more information about yard waste, visit www.FridleyMN.gov or call (763) 323-5720. The Fridley Historical Society is entirely volunteer- run and needs museum guides, office help, and special committee members to fill out its workforce. You can be a part of the magic of bringing the past to life and maybe even discover some facts you never knew about the area. E nvironme nta lly-m inde d people ca n find opportunities at the Springbrook Nature Center or Mississippi National River Recreation Area. Both offer one-time and ongoing volunteer opportunities in the great outdoors. Help preserve our natural resources and teach others about nature and conservation. If you are an animal lover, consider helping out at the Animal Humane Society. If you are available to care for an animal in your home, Midwest Animal Rescue is looking for foster homes for rescued strays. Can Do Canines, an organization that trains assistance dogs for people with disabilities can also use people interested in fostering puppies and helping out with other tasks. This is just a sampling of the many volunteer groups that are flourishing in our community. There are countless ways to add your own ray to Fridley’s vibrance. With opportunities from arts to athletics, history to housekeeping, and caregiving to car repair, there is truly something for everyone. Club/Organization Contact Fridley Lions www.fridleylions.org Fridley-Columbia Heights Rotary www.fridleyrotary.org American Legion Post 303 & Auxiliary (763) 784-9824 VFW Post 363 (763) 780-3694 Fridley Women of Today - Delores Varichak (763) 572-1206; moreinfo@fridleywt.org Anoka County RSVP (763) 422-7090; Tricia.Lehti@co.anoka.mn.us Single Volunteers of the Twin Cities www.svtconline.org Banfill-Locke Center for the Arts (763) 574-1850; bethany.whitehead@banfill-locke.org Fridley Community Theatre (763) 502-5100 Fridley Historical Society info@fridleyhistory.org Springbrook Nature Center (763) 572-3588 Mississippi National River and Recreation Area (651) 293-8424 Tamarisk (763) 572-1950 Chores and More (763) 502-5151 Unity Hospital (763) 236-3011 Lee Carlson Center (763) 780-3036 Anoka County Mediation Services (763) 422-8878; www.mediationservice.org Meals on Wheels (763) 236-3636 Free2B (763) 717-7755 Anoka County Volunteer Transportation Program (763) 422-7075 Columbia Heights-Fridley Kiwanis www.chfkiwanis.org Kinship of Greater Minneapolis (612) 276-1564 Fridley Youth Sports Association fridleysports.com Animal Humane Society www.animalhumanesociety.org Midwest Animal Rescue & Services www.midwestanimalrescue.org Can Do Canines can-do-canines.org/volunteer Fridley Public Schools Provide Unique Opportunities for Success A unique feature of the Fridley Public Schools is its International Baccalaureate Programme. Fridley Public Schools offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme to all its students in grades K-12, and is one of only two districts in Minnesota that are IB districts. The IB aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect. Education through the IB framework has an emphasis on international mindedness, rigorous curriculum and assessment, instruction in a second language, and focuses on teaching the whole child. To find out more about the IB Programme, contact the School District at (763) 502-5000. Adopt a Local Bus Shelter Adopt-A-Shelter is a program that helps businesses, individuals, community organizations and schools make a real difference in their neighborhoods by “adopting” local bus shelters. The City of Fridley encourages you to consider taking an active part in this program. Metro Transit maintains more than 700 shelters in the metro area. Metro Transit staff make regular visits to shelters (in some cases, daily) to make sure they are clean and damage-free. An adopter, whether it’s an individual or a group, assists Metro Transit by alerting them to special maintenance needs and reporting vandalism or suspicious activity. In short, you can help to keep our community safe and clean. When you or your group adopts a shelter, Metro Transit provides recognition via signage and press information to make your efforts known. With the Adopt-A-Shelter program, you can help keep area bus shelters safe and clean, and you or your organization will be recognized as a “good neighbor” that cares about its environment. Contact Metro Transit at Adopt-a-shelter@ metrotransit.org and provide them the location of the shelter you or your organization wants to adopt. They will send you an agreement and answer any questions you may have. Once a representative from your organization signs the agreement, Metro Transit will provide you with trash bags and safety training information so you can begin to clean and make improvements to the shelter immediately. For additional questions on the program, you can contact Metro Transit’s program representative at (612) 349-7678. Police & Fire Emergency..................................911 Municipal Center ............................763-571-3450 Building Inspections.........................763-572-3604 Code Enforcement...........................763-572-3592 Planning and Zoning .......................763-572-3592 Public Works ..................................763-572-3566 Police Administration .......................763-572-3629 Fire Administration ..........................763-572-3613 Parks & Recreation ..........................763-572-3570 Springbrook Nature Center ..............763-572-3588 Senior Program...............................763-502-5150 Engineering....................................763-572-3552 City Manager/City Council..............763-572-3500 Human Resources............................763-572-3504 Utility Billing ...................................763-572-3529 Assessing .......................................763-572-3536 Fax................................................763-571-1287 Newsletter......................................763-572-3500 Sewer Division (M-F 7am - 3:30pm)....763-572-3566 (after hours)...............763-427-1212 Service Directory www.FridleyMN.gov info@FridleyMN.gov Meet the Sewer Department page 4 F r i d l e y C o m m u n i t y R e p o r t Anyone who has ever experienced, or even imagined, a sewage backup in their home can appreciate the importance of clear and well- maintained sewer systems. In Fridley, residents benefit from a Public Works Sewer Division whose members have shown remarkable dedication to their line of work. With a combined total of over ninety years of experience, Supervisor Greg Kottsick and his team of 4 full-time employees know what it takes to keep things running smoothly. Sewer employees Bruce Koopmeiners, Gary Bulman, Craig Hanson, and Dick Jones spend the majority of their time out in the field. Regular cleaning of the sewer with a high velocity jetting machine begins in the spring, as temperatures rise above freezing. Pressurized water from the jetter removes grease, roots, and sand from the City’s sanitary lines. With 110 miles of sanitary sewer lines to get to, cleaning genera l l y continues through November. In addition to the City mains, the Sewer Division maintains thirteen lift stations throughout Fridley. Dick explains, “All sanitary sewer lines function on gravity. Lift stations use pumps to force a sanitary sewer line to an elevation point where gravity can take over.” Each station is inspected twice every week to keep the pumps and controls operating. The department’s diligence in sewer cleaning and lift station maintenance is crucial. “Sewer backups would occur all the time if this was not done,” says Gary. The others agree. “We’re keeping the lines in good shape and identifying problem areas,” says Bruce. Identifying problem areas before they become emergencies is the name of the game for the sewer division. They are aided by a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system, which is a monitoring technology that reports data from various points in the sewer system and can remotely alert them to potential issues at any time. Residents can also call in problems 24 hours per day, and are strongly encouraged to do so before they call a plumber. When a resident does call in with a sanitary sewer blockage, the sewer division takes steps to find out where the problem lies. “We send out an employee to check manholes upstream and downstream from the home,” says Gary. “If manholes are normal and flowing properly we notify the homeowner that the City main is clear and the problem is in their line.” “We’ll talk with the homeowner about possible problems within their sanitary line and how to correct it,” says Dick. “If a manhole is holding water, we tell the homeowner it is in the City main and we bring out our jetter and open up the blockage. We stay there until the water is down and flowing properly,” Gary continues. If the source of the backup was in the main line, as opposed to the home’s lateral line, the City takes responsibility. Sewer Division Continues Smoke Testing Program In October, 2013, the City’s Sanitary Sewer Division plans to conduct nontoxic smoke testing in an area south of Moore Lake as part of its ongoing Inflow/Infiltration (I/I) control program. Sanitary sewer flows have been monitored and observed to be abnormally high at this location. Properties in the smoke testing area will receive notification prior to testing. The smoke testing will be used to identify locations where clear water I/I is introduced into the City’s sanitary sewer system. When locations that contribute to I/I are identified, follow-up inspections of homes and businesses will be conducted. Inspectors will pay particular attention to foundation drains and to how water from these drains is disposed of. If non-legal connections to the City's sanitary sewer collection system are identified, property owners will be asked to eliminate these connections within six months and to find alternative means of clear water disposal. The City will waive the $300 per quarter surcharge for those who remove the connections within six months. The City’s Housing and Redevelopment Authority will offer low interest loans for repairs to families that meet its income and credit requirements, and will allow voluntary assessments of up to $5,000 to help in financing the cost of any needed repairs. The City’s Sanitary Sewer Division began testing Fridley’s sanitary sewer system in the fall of 2012 with the objective of reducing sanitary sewer flow rates. The City’s sewer billings owe over two- thirds of their cost to conveyance and treatment of sanitary sewer flows, which are metered and charged to the City per gallon by the Metropolitan Council Environmental Services. If flows become too high, an additional surcharge can be applied. The City has so far averted this surcharge. Residents who have questions about this process may contact the City’s Sewer Maintenance Supervisor, Greg Kottsick, at (763) 572-3566 or by email at Greg.Kottsick@FridleyMN.gov. Thanks to all Fridley owners for your cooperation in this continued work that is intended to avoid future increases to your utility rates. Pictured Left to Right: Craig Hanson, Dick Jones, Gary Bulman, Bruce Koopmeiners, and Greg Kottsick “We inspect the homeowner’s basement, and if need be, call the cleaning company, and follow up with the homeowner,” says Bruce. Among all five Sewer Division employees, there is resounding agreement about what people can do to lessen the potential for sanitary sewer backups. “The best way for residents to help is to be cautious about what they put in the sewer,” says Craig. Items such as baby wipes, facial tissues, rags, and disposable toilet bowl cleaners wreak havoc on the sanitary sewer. “Just because an item is disposable does not mean you flush it down the toilet,” says Greg. Gary says, “My advice to homeowners who have their sewer lines cleaned regularly (once a year) is to have it cleaned sometime in October before things get too crazy and busy around the holidays — so when you have a house full of company your sewer will work properly!” And it is always a good idea to notify the Sewer Division when lateral lines have been cleaned, so that they can follow up to make sure no debris was pushed into the City line. Maintaining the sanitary sewer is a major task, yet it is only one part of the whole sewer system. Greg and his team are also in charge of the storm sewer upkeep. With a changing regulatory environment, managing the storm sewer is becoming an increasingly demanding aspect of the group’s work. “Storm sewer cleaning, outfall inspections, and storm sewer sediment basin cleaning generally take place in the fall,” notes Greg. Despite frigid temperatures, sewer employees do not catch a break when winter hits. Main line televising, though difficult to do in extreme cold due to steam entering the sewers, can be completed year-round. This service is done to inspect and rate the condition of pipes. Additionally, all sewer personnel assist with snow removal during snowfall events. No matter what the season, Greg, Gary, Bruce, Craig and Dick are out in the elements, committed to a tough field of work that others might shy away from. Why do they do it? “Not providing maintenance, repairs, and capital improvements to the sanitary and storm water systems would result in sanitary sewer overflows, stormwater flooding, sanitary sewer back-ups into properties, and as a result, an overall effect on our residents’ public health and welfare,” says Greg. If you are experiencing sewer trouble, remember to call the Sewer Division right away at (763) 572- 3566 (M-F 7am - 3:30pm) or (763) 427-1212 (after hours). If you are not, remember to thank them! w w w .F r i d l e y M N .g o v page 5 When people are asked if they would consider being a paid-on-call firefighter, most respond that they do not have enough time. Research has backed this claim up, and consequently, there are more openings for firefighters than candidates to fill the positions. The U.S. Fire Administration and the National Volunteer Fire Council cite the number one source of the problem as “not enough time.” Since the 1970s, two-income families, increased training demands, higher call volume, and additional demands on the fire departments have taken their toll on an individual’s ability to serve. Fridley and other metro-area fire departments are stepping up to combat this trend and recruit more firefighters. The Anoka County Fire Protection Council received a 2011 Federal grant in the amount of $1.1 million for the purpose of hiring 236 firefighters over a four-year period. The grant funding allowed for the hiring of a recruiting officer based at Centennial Fire District, the cost of providing medical evaluations and all the cost of training new firefighters. Included in the grant are two trailers intended to be mobile billboards with pictures of firefighters. They have been on display throughout the City this summer and fall, and will be used for recruiting at events like the Fridley Fire Department’s Open House on October 5. In addition to a recruiting message the trailers display the Anoka County recruiting website www.mnfirehire.com. On the web site prospective firefighters can find the requirements and information on what it takes to become a firefighter. The website also provides insight on the culture and experiences as a paid-on- call or volunteer firefighter, and specific information on each of the sixteen Anoka County fire departments and their status for hiring. Also on the website you will find a link to a recruiting video that was produced specifically for the Fridley Fire Department. The Fire Department was fortunate enough to have the talent of video production intern Jill Zimmerman. Jill interviewed firefighters, collected video and put together a two- minute video designed to be used for recruiting. A longer version of the video is also available on Fridley’s website. The video gives insight on why Fridley firefighters joined the Fire Department and what it is about the job that has attracted them and kept their interest. Captain Renee Hamdorf was charged with recruiting and hiring Fridley firefighters. She designed a recruiting brochure that was distributed to local businesses in the City of Fridley. Renee also worked very closely with Jill in the making of the two videos. A new addition to the recruiting effort this year was a recruiting fair that took place on a weekend and a weekday evening at the Department’s training facility. Prospective firefighter applicants were given the opportunity to observe and participate in situations that would be encountered as a firefighter. Firefighters were on hand to answer questions and give participants the opportunity to handle equipment, tour the trucks and become familiar with medical intervention devices and supplies. Applications for Fridley firefighter opened September 3 and closed on October 7. The Fridley Fire Department hopes to hire up to eight qualified applicants to attend the Anoka County Fire Academy in January, 2014. This would bring the department to a full complement of forty EMT/Firefighters. Additional hiring processes will be considered for the Academy class in August, 2014, should the Fire Department have a need for additional staff. Information may be obtained by contacting the department at (763) 572-3612 or on our website at www.FridleyMN.gov Fulfill a Dream…Be a Firefighter New Utility Bill… Making Life a Little Less Complicated This past July, the City contracted with a new vendor to provide utility bill printing services. Apex Print Technologies will now be providing bill printing services, along with other new and exciting services. The new utility statements are simpler to understand and provide a cost savings to the City. Along with the new utility bill statements, customers will now have the ability to “Go Green” by enrolling in electronic bill notification and online bill payment services. With myEasyView®, customers receive an email notifying them that their bill is available to view. They simply log in, view their current bill and can quickly and conveniently pay online if they choose. This service is available after customers receive their first statement. Customers will begin seeing the new statements beginning in late October. The City bills on a quarterly basis, and depending upon which cycle customers are in, they may not see the new statement until November or December. Another feature of on-line statements is the ability to review prior statements. This feature will allow users to quickly compare water consumption from year-to-year. For more information, please visit www.FridleyMN.gov and click on utils/streets. Fridley Residential Recycling Drop-off Day October 12 • 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. City of Fridley Public Works 400 71st Ave NE • (763) 572-3594 www.FridleyMN.gov/drop-off Get rid of stuff! Appliances, electronics, air conditioners, small engines, scrap metal, flourescent bulbs, vehicle batteries, paper for shredding, clothing, household goods, undamaged furniture, bikes, carpeting and pads (rolled in 6’ sections). Note: Prescription Medication NOT collected at this event. Please take directly to convenient drop box located in the lower level of the Fridley Municipal Center and during office hours (8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.). Leave in original containers. page 6 F r i d l e y C o m m u n i t y R e p o r t Fridley Market Creating a Buzz Construction activity continues to punctuate Fridley Market. Located in the southwest corner of University Avenue and 57th Avenue, Fridley Market provides essential retail services for many people who do not have access to a car to get their shopping done. The original facility was constructed 45 years ago, and had become tired and dated. With a considerable investment by its new owner, Tri-Land Properties, Inc., a renaissance is taking place, including building rehabilitation and the addition of some new stores. Cub Foods Grand opening On July 10, the ribbon was cut for the newly remodeled Cub Foods. Highlights include an open and modern design. The store boasts front windows to let the light shine in. Mark Halverson, the Store Director, said in a press release “From the parking lot to the entrance to every department, customers will experience an entirely new store when they visit the Fridley Cub.” The parking lot includes many upgrades for cars, bikers and walkers to compliment the Transit Oriented Development Zoning District. The City is pleased with SUPERVALU, Cub’s owner, by its investment of an estimated $4.2 million in the City and for recognizing the special circumstances that exist in this area. Many employees work there and residents in the area enjoy the walkable convenience of this new store. TCF bank also boasts of beautiful improvements to its façade and interior. Customers can enjoy all the services of a full service bank conveniently located within walking distance of many other shops within Fridley Market. A new McDonald’s restaurant is also under construction. Its location in Fridley Market places it closer to 57th Street so that traffic can circulate safely Join Fridley’s Tasting Club During the final stages of the remodel and construction of the Fridley Market development, Fridley Liquor. located next to Cub Foods, remains open for business. This past June during demolition to the front of the building, severe storms caused significant water damage, which resulted in the closure of the store for a week. The good news is that the entire Fridley Market site redevelopment is on target to be completed before winter sets in. Part of the remodel included adding new features and amenities. One of the amenities includes a tasting area that provides ample room for tasting and educational events. Other features include an expanded line- up of new products, including a number of new craft beers. Plans are also being developed for the creation of a tasting club that will bring in a vast array of products for individuals to sample. If you are interested in learning more about the upcoming tasting club, please complete the Fridley Tasting Club form and drop it off at either of our two municipal liquor store locations, or at City Hall. The form can also be completed online by visiting our website: www.FridleyMN.gov/liquor. As plans continue to be finalized, updates will be emailed and posted on the Liquor Store’s website. If you have and questions or a special product request that is not currently available in the store, please contact Kyle Birkholz, Liquor Store Operations Manager at (763) 571-1994 or at Kyle.Birkholz@FridleyMN.gov. F R I D L E Y TA S T I N G C L U B Name:___________________________________ Address:__________________________________ City:_____________________________________ St:_____________Zip:_____________________ E-Mail:___________________________________ Please return to either of our two municipal liquor store locations, or the Municipal Center through the parking lot. McDonald’s would like to have their store in Fridley open and to be serving food to its customers, before the end of 2013. A second free-standing building for multiple tenants is planned to be constructed between the new McDonald’s and the Holiday station store, along 57th Avenue. This building will be slightly over 10,000 sq. ft. and will have architecture complimentary to that on the existing larger building. The leasing agent indicates they are close to having 50% of those future tenants make a commitment for leases in that building. Once the 50% leased benchmark has been reached, the funds to begin construction on that building will be released. So, plan on further construction in Fridley Market in the Spring of 2014. This fall, landscaping, second lifts of asphalt pavement, striping, and all that goes along with a crisp new parking lot and shopping complex are making their way to completion. Meanwhile, engineering for the remaining face of the building between Cub Foods and the Liquor Store is being completed. The contractor assured the City that the curtain wall architecture on the front of the building will be taking shape within the next couple months, since it is in everybody's best interest to get the store complex looking sharp and enclosed for fall and winter conditions and to attract the remainder of the new tenants. In the meantime, drive cautiously, follow the development directional signs, and be sure to continue your diligent patronage of the businesses who very much appreciate your navigation through construction, while positive changes continue to happen along 57th Avenue. Comings and Goings at the Municipal Center We said hello to: Wally Wysopal, City Manager, started June 17, 2013. Kota Patton, Patrol Officer, started June 24, 2013. Nicholas Steiger, Patrol Officer, started June 24, 2013. Jill Zimmerman, Communications Intern, started June 26, 2013. Curtis Pribula, Springbrook Nature Center Custodian, started July 18, 2013. Renee Barker, Tree Inventory Intern, started July 24, 2013. Tamar Koenig, Part-Time Liquor Store Clerk, started July 29, 2013. Cleveland McCoy, Parks & Rec Program Supervisor, started August 27, 2013. Susan Norsten, Part-Time Liquor Store Clerk, started August 30, 2013. Corey Statler, Part-Time Liquor Store Clerk, started August 30, 2013. Matthew Kohner, Assistant Fire Chief, started September 16, 2013. We say goodbye and good luck to: David Lindquist, Parks Supervisor, retired after 40 years of service on June 28, 2013. Richard Cesare, Sergeant, retired after 23 years of service on June 29, 2013. Thomas Williams, Part-Time Liquor Store Clerk, left on July 4, 2013. Daniel Holte, Part-Time Liquor Store Clerk, left on July 15, 2013. John “Jack” Velin, Part-Time Liquor Store Clerk, retired after 14 years of service on July 19, 2013. Mark Daly, Parks & Rec Program Supervisor, left on August 16, 2013. James Strehle, Engineering Intern, left on August 29, 2013. Elizabeth Kray, Zoning & Code Enforcement Intern, left on August 30, 2013. Rebecca Kiernan, Accounting Specialist/ Administrative Assistant, left on October 4, 2013. w w w .F r i d l e y M N .g o v page 7 Unity Hospital Collaborates to Provide New Transitional Care Facility The transition time between receiving a medical procedure and going home typically meant a stay in a hospital room for a period of time until you could live independently. This method is costly and sometimes unhealthy. Now, through the collaboration between Unity Hospital, Benedictine Health Systems and the North Suburban Hospital District a new transitional care facility will soon be under construction. When it is completed, patience will be able to recuperate in a more desirable and less costly environment. It will be a state of the art therapy facility where its guests can have close access to the hospital, while not occupying a typical hospital room for their required on-going therapy. The Transitional Care Facility will be a 3-story building of 45,087 s.f. It will include 38 private guest suites, 2 semi-private guest suites (2 beds in each) and 8 care suites, for a total of 50 skilled nursing beds in one building. The building will be laid out to take advantage of the 1-mile wellness walk that surrounds the Unity campus and the new building's patio will be situated in a way that will allow guests to view the activities in the community gardens on the Unity's campus. Architecture of the building was carefully designed with its neighbors in mind. It is located between the main hospital building and the Lyric Lane residential neighborhood, to its south (just west of the Unity campus maintenance garage). On the hospital end of the new building, it has a commercial appearance and from the south end, it appears as a 3-story residential complex. The two distinct looks depend on what angle you view the building from; yet work well together as a single cohesive piece of architecture. This building will be built by the North Suburban Hospital District on land they own (on the Unity Campus) and leased /managed by a joint venture limited liability company (LLC) made up of Benedictine Health System and Allina. Benedictine Health Service is the managing partner in the LLC. A Special Use Permit is required. That means, the zoning permits the general use as proposed but because it can have impacts on the neighborhood certain conditions or stipulations need to be addressed. Already scheduled on the Planning Commission docket in late September, it is anticipated the City Council will approve the plans at its October 14 meeting. The City is delighted in the expansion as it will continue to add to the vitality and vibrancy to the community. Also, the Unity Campus is a significant source of jobs for Fridley. For additional information on the project or Special Use Permit process, please contact: Stacy Stromberg at: (763) 572-3595 or e-mail at: Stacy.Stromberg@FridleyMN.gov. Summer Code Enforcement Prompts Businesses to Make Improvements Due to the economy and staffing limitations, the City had not systematically inspected the exterior conditions at all businesses in the City for several years. The work of one temporary planner over the summer proved that inspections were long overdue, since 67% of businesses inspected were found to have violations. Staff sent out over 500 letters to Fridley business owners, requesting compliance. Violations mainly involved unauthorized exterior storage and parking lot maintenance. Most cases required either removing items stored outdoors, or getting a special use permit to maintain a limited amount of exterior storage on a site. Many businesses had failed to paint parking space lines on their parking lots and had to restripe their lots. General property maintenance, dumpster enclosure construction or repair, and unpermitted signs were other common violations. City staff worked with business owners to establish a reasonable time frame to meet the code requirements for each item. Many cases are still being worked on by the Planning Division staff, including 39 that have been granted extensions. While some businesses need more time to finance improvements or find an available contractor to complete necessary improvements, 71% have complied and have greatly improved the appearance of their business site. after before Fridley Community Calendar October 2 Appeals Commission 3 Housing & Redevelopment Authority 7 Parks & Recreation Commission Charter Commission 14 City Council 16 Planning Commission 28 City Council November 4 City Council Charter Commission Parks & Recreation Commission 6 Appeals Commission 7 Housing & Redevelopment Authority 11 City Offices Closed in Observance of Veterans Day 12 Environmental Quality & Energy Commission 18 City Council 20 Planning Commission 28, 29 City Offices Closed in Observance of Thanksgiving NOTE:City Council and Commission Meetings start at 7:00 pm. Meetings are held at the Municipal Center, 6431 University Avenue, NE. The public is welcome. Hearing impaired persons who need an interpreter or other persons with disabilities who require auxiliary aids, and would like to attend a meeting, should contact Roberta Collins at (763) 572-3500 at least one week in advance. Unity Hospital Unity Professional Bldg Parking Maint. Proposed TCU Patio Garden Garden Lyric L a n e B allet Blvd Winter Parking Ban and Snow Plowing Requests As winter approaches, we are asking for your help. Please do not park your cars on the street during the winter months. City ordinances prohibit overnight parking from 2:00 a.m. to 6:00 a.m. during the months of November through March. This parking ban is automatically extended during and after snow storms until the roads are fully plowed. Cars left on the street are especially hazardous to plow operators, and can significantly slow down the time it takes to clear City streets. They also make it very difficult for emergency vehicles as they respond to neighborhood emergencies. For these reasons, vehicles parked on the street overnight or during plowing operations will be tagged and towed at the owner’s expense. Please do not plow or shovel any snow from private or business property onto City streets. This snow can create icy ridges, which can be especially hazardous after the City has cleared a street. Also, do not place your garbage cans or recycling bins on the street. They need to be kept on the boulevard behind the curb, or in the driveway. If you have any landscaping on the boulevard, please mark anything taller than a foot and within five feet from the curb. City snow plow drivers will try to avoid the marked landscaping as they attempt to “wing back” large snow banks. Please clear boulevards of unnecessary obstructions to prevent damage to City equipment and residential property. As a safety precaution, please remind children to be careful when play around snow banks. These banks reduce visibility and make it hard for drivers to see children playing. If you have any questions or comments, contact Street Supervisor Jeff Jensen at (763) 572-3566 or Jeffrey.Jensen@FridleyMN.gov. w w w .F r i d l e y M N .g o v page 8 The 2013 Fridley Night to Unite was again a huge success, with 94 parties registered! Although the severe weather that passed through may have shortened the time frame for some of the parties, the event was still well received. Many of the Fridley police officers, reserves, firefighters, and Council members, including the new City Manager Wally Wysopal, enjoyed meeting the residents and answering questions about the City. And, of course, the food offered at the various parties is always a treat! Night to Unite is all about community and police partnerships. Over 20 years ago, solid partnerships were established between the Fridley Police and Fridley residents. While the demographics of Fridley have changed in the intervening years, the original partnerships and relationships continue to provide a strong foundation for the Police Department to work from. Whether we are hosting a fun event such as Night to Unite, asking for Neighborhood Watch Block Captains to distribute extra crime alerts, or asking for volunteers for Safety Camp, we have a base of volunteers who come forward with helping hands. This is not always the case in many communities. All relationships take work to grow and evolve and community-police partnerships are no different. It takes officers and City staff who are willing to spend time and extra effort such as returning phone calls about issues that are not police related, chatting with block captains while out on patrol, dealing with the quality of life issues as if they were occurring in their own neighborhood, and listening when it would be easier to move on. We are fortunate to have the police-community relationship we have in Fridley. Our elected officials and administrators who support this effort are of paramount importance. In addition, the community businesses who donate to various parties are greatly appreciated, including Bob’s Produce, who, for many years now, has donated a crate of peaches to EACH registered block party! Target also supports Night to Unite with their donation of cups, spoons, and other items to the host parties. Night-to-Unite is held the first Tuesday in August each year, but the success of the event depends on all the other community interactions which happen all year long. It is also dependent on the many Block Captains, many of whom have been with the program since its inception, who are willing to be a part of Neighborhood Watch! Thank you to the many players, no matter what role you had, who make Night to Unite such a successful, FUN event! 2013 Night to Unite Celebration! Fridley’s Recreation After-School Program offers something for everyone! Check out our website for more information and class offerings. www.FridleyMN.gov • 763-572-3570 Programs at Hayes and Stevenson Elementary Recreation activities to do when the school day ends. 3:45 - 5:15 p.m. Upcoming Classes: Halloween Fun • Snackables Painting • Sport Sampler Basketball League Don’t miss the fun School-out Day Trips on Oct. 16, 17, 18 & 21! Halloween Party Grades K-4 l 3:45 - 5:30 p.m. l $5.00 Friday, October 11 at Hayes Elementary Friday, October 25 at Stevenson Elementary Wear your costume to our fun Halloween Party! We’ll have parties at both Hayes and Stevenson Elementary Schools. A Kidsdance DJ will be out with music, games, and prizes. A snack will also be provided.