HomeMy WebLinkAbout1998 Stillwater City Newsletterjti11water Scene
L Official City Newsletter
Vol. 10, No. 4
Stillwater, Minnesota 55082
CAR-RT SORT
BULK RATE
U.S.POSTAGE
PAID
Stillwater, MN 55082
Permit No. 206
Postal Patron
November 1998
Doug Brady is
the manager of
the new St.
Croix Valley
Recreation
Center. The
dome/field
house already is
in operation.
Finishing
touches are
being put on the
ice arena. The
grand opening
festivities are
set for Sunday,
Dec. 13. An
insert in the
newsletter gives
details.
Rec center to have grand opening
The St. Croix Valley Recreation Cen-
ter will be completed and ready for use by
the first week in December. The field
house has been in operation since early
October.
The public will have the opportunity
to view the new facilities during a grand
opening event that will take place from
noon to 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13. The
grand opening will feature a Team Media
hockey game, soccer clinic, youth hockey
and soccer games, free refreshments,
prizes and more.
The Recreation Center is the result of
a four-year effort that was started by a
handful of civic minded citizens. These
citizens, with the cooperation of city offi-
cials, were successful in obtaining several
million dollars from businesses, local
foundations, other local governments and
individuals to help pay for the facilities.
The efforts of the people who made the
center a reality are greatly appreciated as
are the many entities/individuals that con-
tributed to the City's wonderful new recre-
ation facility.
Residents are encouraged to plan now
to attend the grand opening.
City adopts proposed budget, levy
The City Council has adopted the
proposed 1999 budget and tax levy. The
proposed budget stands at $6,814,842 and
the proposed levy at $4,237,395, a one-
half percent increase over 1998. The City
Council will hold its Truth in Taxation
hearing on the proposed budget and levy
at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 1.
All Stillwater property owners should
receive a statement from Washington
County during the month of November.
The statement will show the impact that
the proposed budgets and tax levies of all
taxing districts will have on property
taxes. The City tax levy, which accounts
for about 25 percent of the total property
tax bill, is expected to result in a minimal
increase in property taxes for most tax-
payers; in some cases, taxes should actu-
ally decrease. Some owners may experi-
ence a tax increase if their property market
value has increased.
Citizens will have an opportunity to
learn more about the budget and to com-
ment on the proposed budget at the Truth
in Taxation hearing.
Page 2
City Briefs
All incumbents
were re-elected
All incumbent City Council members
were re-elected in the Nov. 3 general
election. Mayor Jay Kimble, Ward 1 rep-
resentative Terry Zoller and Ward 4 repre-
sentative Gene "Taco" Bealka were
elected to serve four-year terms which be-
gin Jan. 4, 1999.
Ward 2 representative Eric Thole and
Ward 3 representative Rich Cummings
have two years remaining in their terms.
City numbers
The city phone numbers are:
Administration/Finance 430-8800
Community Development 430-8823
Building Inspection 430-8823
Engineering/Public Works 430-8837
Police (non -emergency) 351-4900
Fire (non -emergency) 351-4950
Other city numbers are:
Parks 439-4561
Ice Arena 439-1337
City Garage 439-5933
Library 439-1675
Fire Department
has gift ideas
The Stillwater Fire Department re-
minds residents that although a smoke
detector won't prevent a fire, a working
smoke detector can double the chances of
surviving a fire. Since many fires occur at
night, a detector might e the only safety
alert.
Residents are urged to install a smoke
detector on every level of the home, to
clean and inspect the detectors every
month, and to change batteries on a regu-
lar basis.
I Smoke detectors are inexpensive and
can be purchased at any hardware, dis-
count or department store.
Residents also should consider in-
stalling a carbon monoxide gas detector.
Carbon monoxide gas is an odorless gas
that has clamed many lives. The detectors
also are relatively inexpensive and make a
great gift.
!Collection rules
Residents are reminded of the rules
and regulations pertaining to the city's
(See Briefs, page 4)
Advisory board applicants sought
Applications are now being accepted for openings on Stillwater advisory boards
and commissions listed below. All openings are volunteer positions, appointed by the
City Council. Interested citizens may pick up an application at City Hall or contact the
City Clerk at 430-8802.
Completed applications must be returned no later than noon Dec. 18.
Library Board: The Library Board operates and maintains the Stillwater Public
Library. The Board consists of nine members who serve for a period of three years;
membership is limited to three consecutive three-year terms. The Board meets monthly.
Planning Commission: The purpose of the Planning Commission is to act as the
City's planning agency. The Commission conducts public hearings on applications for
special use permits, conditional use permits, variances to the zoning ordinance, subdi-
vision and other areas that are covered by the City's Zoning Ordinance. The Commis-
sion consists of nine members; one member is a City Council member. Members serve
three-year terms. The Planning Commission meets monthly.
Heritage Preservation Commission: The Heritage Preservation Commission
safeguards the heritage of the City by working toward the preservation of historical
sites and structures. The Commission consists of seven members who serve for a period
of three years. The Planning Commission chairperson and the City Planner are ex-offi-
cio, non -voting members. The Heritage Preservation Commission meets monthly.
Park and Recreation Board: The Board manages the City's parks and play-
grounds. The Board reviews proposals for parks and open space and recreational facili-
ties and advises the Council on proposals. The Board consists of 11 members who
serve two-year terms. The Board meets monthly.
Downtown Parking Commission: The Commission oversees management and
improvement of downtown parking. The group consists of seven members, five down-
town business or property owners and two members at -large. Two commissioners serve
one-year terms, three serve two-year terms, and two serve two-year terms.
Joint Cable Commission: The Joint Cable Commission administers the Cable
Communications Franchise Ordinance. The Commission was created by a joint powers
agreement between the cities of Bayport, Oak Park Heights and Stillwater. There are
two primary members and one alternate member from each municipality.
Human Rights Commission: The purpose of the Human Rights Commission is to
aid and advise the City Council to ensure that all citizens are afforded equal opportu-
nity in those areas protected by law and in other related concerns. Currently, two open-
ings exist for youth members; youth members are appointed to one-year terms.
Winter parking rules in force
Like it or not, winter is upon us, and that means the City's winter parking regula-
tions are in force -- at all times -- from November 1 to April 1. The City uses an odd -
even winter parking system -- on odd numbered calendar days, cars can be parked on
the side of the street with odd -numbered street addresses; on even -numbered calendar
days, parking is allowed on the side of the street with even -numbered addresses.
There is a change -over period between 7 p.m. and midnight each day when the
regulations are not in force to allow residents to move their cars to the side of the street
where parking is permitted the next day.
Residents are asked not to park on streets until snow removal crews have had a
chance to clear the streets.
On designated "Snow Emergency" streets parking is prohibited an either side of
the street until the street has been cleared of snow. The following streets are designated
snow emergency routes: South Third Street from Myrtle to Churchill Street; West
Churchill from South Third to South Greeley; Myrtle Street from Main to Greeley
Street; North Fourth Street from Myrtle to Wilkins Street; Pine Street from South Third
to South Greeley Street; Greeley Street from Myrtle to West Anderson Street; North
Third Street from Myrtle to Laurel Street; and Laurel from Third Street to Owens.
After the street has been cleared of snow, parking is allowed on both sides of the
street on Churchill from Third to Fifth; Fourth Street from Willard to Hancock; Fourth
Street from Myrtle to Mulberry; Walnut Street from Third to Fifth Street; and streets in
the Central Business District.
Parking is allowed only on the west side of Third Street from Myrtle to Laurel
Street and only on the south side of Laurel Street from North Fifth to North Everett.
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THE ST. CROIX VALLEY RECREATION CENTER
CORDIALLY INVITES YOU TO OUR
GRAND OPENING
WHEN: SUNDA Y, DECEMBER 13, 1998
WHERE: ST. CROIX VALLEY
RECREATION CENTER
(1675 MARKET DRIVE STILL WATER, MN)
TIME: 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM
THE ST. CROIX VALLEY RECREATION CENTER STAFF & MANAGEMENT
AND THE CITY OF STILL WATER INVITE YOU TO THE GRAND OPENING OF THIS
COMMUNITIES NEW FIELD HOUSE & 1,300 SEAT ICE ARENA. PLEASE JOIN US
FOR AN AFTERNOON OF FREE FOOD, ICE AND SOCCER DEMOS, OPEN SKATE
AND OPPORTUNITIES TO REGISTRAR FOR OUR NEW SKATING & HOCKEY
STARTUP PROGRAMS AS WELL AS OUR SOCCER LEAGUE PROGRAMS. A SPECL4L
APPEARANCE WILL ALSO BE MADE BY TEAM MEDL4.
WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU!
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i ST. CROIX VALLEY RECREATION CENTER II
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► LILY LAKE ICE ARENA IP
+ •
PROGRAM INFORMATION
► ►
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• ****FIEL.D HOUSE PROGRANIIACTIVITIES**** •
1 Field house walking track: ►
i The field house will be open to the public starting daily at 7:00 a.m.. i
Pass punch cards will be available. 1
1 f
• Soccer Leagues now forming: Starting January 8,1999, Contact Troy at
888-6080 for further league information.
•
Open Field House: Need to run off some energy? Open Field House is the solution.
• Watch for program information.
► Golf Driving Range and Batting Cages available - mid winter -1999.
1
****ICE ARENA PROGRAMS/ACTIVITIES****
• Open Skate: Lily Lake Ice Arena 12 noon -1:30 p.m. Mon.- Friday
► 6:00 - 7:30 p.m. Sat. & Sunday ►
i (Open skate will be moving to the St. Croix Valley Recreation Center beginning i
Monday, December 14, 1998 with the same hours as listed above.)
1 1
Open Hockey: To be held at the Lily Lake Ice Arena starting December 14, 1998.
Watch for program information or call 439-1337.
y ISI Skating Program/Startup Hockey Program:
► Program to be held at both the St. Croix Valley Recreation Center and ►
I
Lily Lake Ice Arena. i
Session 1: January 5th - February 27, 1998
• Session II: March 9th - May 8,1998 i
' Please see attached for program times, fees and registration information. ,
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A PUBLICATION OF THE STILLWATER PUBLIC LIBRARY
VOLUME 3
NUMBER 4
WINTER
1998
eYt�.ife
* * *
FREE!
* * *
STILLWATER PUBLIC LIBRARY * 223 NORTH FOURTH STREET * STILLWATER, MN 55082 * 612.439.1675
PUSH COMES TO SHOVE
Technology or books? There are
many voices extolling one and
predicting its ultimate victory over
the other, but most libraries know
that there is a lot of scope - and
need - for both. A recent study
showed that 73% of American
public libraries now offer at least
some access to the Internet. This is a
dramatic and important increase in
"connectivity," but it has a price.
Many libraries, including SPL, are
finding that these technology costs
contribute to static book budgets.
Consequently, gifts to our endowed
book fund such as a recent one from
Stillwater Trolley are very
important. To donate to our
endowed fund, just call me at ext.18.
Lynne Bertalmio, Director
FIGHT WINTER BLAHS
WITH THE BLUES
As an antidote to the winter blahs,
the library is planning the fourth in
its series of music classes/discussions.
Bring on the Blues will focus on the
history of this most American of
musical genres, the regional
differences heard in the blues, and
the blues' capacity to make us feel
better even when they sing of pain
and suffering. The program is
planned for late winter, but dates are
not yet set. Call the library in
February for more information.
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday*
HOURS
1 - 9P.M.
10 A.M. - 9 P.M.
10 A.M. - 9 P.M.
1 - 9P.M.
10 A.M. - 5 P.M.
10 A.M. - 5 P.M.
1 - 5P.M.
* September - May
PROGRAMS
Preschool Storytimes
An introduction to books and
storytelling for ages 3 to 5
Wed., 10:15 & 11:15 A.M.
Bedtime Storytime
A "pajama party" storytime for
children 3 and older and their
parents. Cosponsored by ECFE.
Nov. 19, Dec. 10, Jan. 21, Feb.18
Thursdays at 7 P.M.
Stuffed animals and blankets are
welcome!
Booktalkers
Library staff members review
winter reading for adults
Thursday, January 28
7:30 P.M.
Adult Winter Reading Discussions
February 25 & March 25
Thursdays at 7:30 P.M.
WINTER READING
PROGRAM - FOR ADULTS
Why should children have all the fun?
For years, the library has offered a
summer reading program for children.
In January 1999, the library will start
its first winter reading program for
adults. The program will begin on
Thursday, January 28, at 7:30 P.M.,
with a visit from the Booktalkers,
library staff members who will profile
some great winter reading. At that
time, participants may register for the
reading program. Recognizing that
adults have very little time to spare,
the major component of the program
is independent reading supported by
booklists developed for the program.
On Thursdays, February 25 and
March 25, there will be book
discussions starting at 7:30 P.M. where
participants may exchange views.
There will also be prizes - appropriate
to the season - for participation. Call
Lynne Bertalmio at ext. 18 for more
information.
MONDAY BOOK GROUP
Book lovers of all ages are invited to
attend a new book discussion group,
co -sponsored by the Senior
Community Center and the Stillwater
Public Library. The group will meet
one Monday per month from 1-3 P.M.
at the Senior Community Center,
2300 W. Orleans St., Stillwater. For
dates and book information, call
Carolyn Blocher at ext. 25.
L E T
M I N
U N
E E P !
VOLUNTEERS EXPAND
LOCAL HISTORY ACCESS
The St. Croix Collection of local
history will be open to the public
several more hours per week, thanks
to three extraordinary volunteers.
Kay Thueson, long-time SCC
volunteer, has agreed to staff the
room regularly on Wednesday
mornings. Her background in
genealogy is helpful to searchers as
she can guide them to library
materials or refer them to resources
outside the library. Library staff
member Sue Hedin will be working
some Wednesday evenings and
Saturdays. She has a combination of
reference skills and experience at
the Minnesota Historical Society in
maps, archaeology, and house history
research. Nancy McCormick, Head
of Circulation at the U. of M. Law
Library, will work some Saturdays.
She is organizing and indexing the
files on the Stillwater bridge and
creating a timeline and study guide
for this perennial research topic. For
SCC hours, call the Information
Desk at ext. 11.
HELP PRESERVE LOCAL
HISTORY
Cleaning the attic? Making room on
shelves? Look carefully at those
boxes of books and photographs
before you discard them! If you have
books, old photographs, postcards,
videos, audiocassettes, or other
research materials (not artifacts)
about the history of Stillwater,
Washington County, or their
inhabitants, the library may be able
to use them in its St. Croix Valley
Collection of local history. Call
Carolyn Blocher at ext. 25.
tjett life ***
HELP SESSIONS FOR
SEARCHERS
The Information Services staff is
presently scheduling help sessions
for searchers who want to learn
more about the library's on-line
catalog, databases, and Internet
access. Held while the library is
closed to other users and limited to
no more than five searchers at a
time, the sessions give participants
an opportunity for "hands on"
experimentation. Patrons may use
their own search topics to discover
and illustrate features of the library's
catalog and electronic databases
such as limiting searches by date or
format such as books -on -tape.
Library staff will be on hand to
provide guidance and pointers.
Although participants may explore
the Internet in these sessions,
extensive training on how to search
the Internet is not included. Those
interested in an in-depth
introduction to the Internet would
be better served by classes such as
those offered by I.S.D. 834's
Community Education. This year's
help sessions at the library are
already full, but additional sessions
are planned for next year. For
further information, call the
Information Desk at ext. 11 in
January.
WHAT'S STILLWATER
READING?
Sunny DeYoung, Executive Staff of
the City of Stillwater Chamber of
Commerce, turns to magazines
when she wants something to read.
Her choices? The New Yorker, The
Atlantic Monthly, New Republic, and
Smithsonian.
MAGAZINES FOR KIDS
Are you looking for materials to
satiate an avid reader or to entice a
reluctant one? Magazines may be the
answer to your quest. The library
subscribes to over 20 magazines for
children, covering a wide range of
interests and reading abilities,
including science and nature
(Odyssey & Ranger Rick), creative
pursuits (Pack-o-Fun & Plays), history
and cultures (Muse & Faces), current
events (Sports Illustrated for Kids &
Time for Kids), and stories and poetry
(Cricket & Ladybug).
Adults may also consult The Five
Owls "celebrat[ing] the real treasures
in children's books" and, beginning in
1999, Riverbank Review, published in
affiliation with the University of St.
Thomas. Both present trends and
issues in children's literature.
The library keeps all issues of
children's magazines for 3 years,
stored on shelves near the picture
book area in the children's room.
Most magazines may be checked out.
HOLIDAY BOOK DRIVE
Research has shown that children
who read and whose parents read to
them are more successful in school
and in work than children in homes
where reading does not take place.
Yet in many homes, books just don't
fit in the budget. The library will be
collecting new children's books for
distribution through the Holiday
Bureau and Project Headstart. The
public is invited to bring new,
unwrapped books for children of all
ages to the library through Friday,
December 11. There is a special need
for books for preschool children.
Page 3
Meet your city staff
Carolyn Blocher
Carolyn Blocher is the
assistant director of the
Stillwater Public Library, a
position she has held for a year.
Her functions include
managing the circulation staff,
the St. Croix Collection and
volunteers, the outreach program
(for homebound and healthcare
facilities residents), technical
services and maintenance. She
also works the reference desk on
a regular schedule. Her position
is a part-time one. Not
surprisingly, Blocher says, "I'm
never bored; there's never a dull
moment."
Blocher earned a master's
degree in library and
information studies from
Northern Illinois University,
DeKalb, Ill. Prior to coming to
Stillwater, she served as director
of Anoka County's new
Johnsville Branch in Blaine.
Blocher says she "loves"
working Stillwater and being
part of a community that has its
CAROLYN BLOCHER
own unique identity. As a
resident of Vadnais Heights, she
also loves working in Stillwater
because of the commute -- "one
of the prettiest I've ever had,"
she says.
Blocher is married. Her
husband, John, is a food scientist
with Novartis Nutrition. They
have a 20-year-old son, Matt,
who is a student at the
University of Minnesota. The
family also includes an "elderly"
Afghan hound.
Her hobbies include,
reading, reading, reading. She
also has recently become
"addicted" to genealogy and
recently learned how to knit.
Kathleen Tran
Kathleen Tran is a new se-
nior account clerk for the city. A
graduate of Highland Park Se-
nior High School in St. Paul, she
is working towards a degree in
accounting, attending St. Paul
Technical College on a part-time
basis. Prior to joining the city,
she worked in a bank and as a
teacher's assistant and tutor at St.
Paul Tech.
Kathleen pays all of the
city's bills, deals with new ven-
dors, does the utility billing, an-
swers questions residents might
have about their utility bills and
does any necessary adjustments
to the billing. Dealing with the
public is the most enjoyable part
of the job for Kathleen.
Kathleen has been married
KATHLEEN TRAN
for three years. Her husband,
Duoc, is a full-time student at St.
Paul Technical College, working
on a degree in electronics. They
have a three -year -old son, Lee,
who goes to daycare in Stillwa-
ter.
Reading is among her hob-
bies — she's a great fan of
Stephen King . And, she's the
biggest fan of the "X-Files" that
"there ever was."
Council approves park master plans
The City Council has approved a
long-range master plan for Aiple and
Kolliner parks. Aiple Park is Located on
the west side of the St. Croix River and
runs from just south of the South Main
Street parking lot to the city's southerly
boundaries. Kolliner Park is located on the
east side of the river and includes the areas
both north and south of the lift bridge.
Kolliner Park was a popular swimming
and picnic area about 30 years ago. The
Aiple property had been leased to Aiple
Marine and Towing Co. for the past 40
years. The lease expired in September of
this year, and the City commissioned SRF
Consulting Group to develop a master
plan for both the Aiple and Kolliner park
areas.
The master plans reflect a low inten-
sity use that makes it possible to enjoy the
location on the St. Croix River while
maintaining and enhancing the natural and
historic character of the sites. Both plans
include picnic areas, natural plantings,
trails, fishing piers and boat storage for
small rowboats. The Cayuga barge, which
was donated to the City by the Aiple fam-
ily, is intended to be used as a viewing
and interpretive exhibit.
The cost for all of the improvements
included in the master plans is several
million dollars. However, the
improvements will be phased in according
to the availability of state and federal
grants and other revenue sources in order
to minimize the use of tax dollars.
The Aiple and Kolliner park plans
may be reviewed at City Hall and at the
Stillwater Public Library.
Buckthorn invades native woodlands
While most leaves have fallen from
the native trees and shrubs in our wood-
land areas, there is a woody plant which
still has green leaves. It is an exotic plant
called buckthorn which is very invasive
and damaging to native woodlands.
Buckthorn, Rhamnus cathartica, is native
to Europe and Asia and was introduced to
North America in the 1700s. Buckthorn
was brought into Minnesota in the 1800s.
Not having natural enemies in North
America, buckthorn has survived and
flourished, rapidly colonizing the under -
story of woodlands and crowding out the
more desirable native vegetation. In older
neighborhoods, you may still see hedges
of buckthorn, though many nurseries re-
cently have banned the production and
sale of the plants.
Buckthorn is a large shrub or small
tree which can grow to a height of 15-20
feet. The outer bark is brown and shiny
with many lenticels (horizontal marks on
the bark), similar in appearance to plum or
cherry; the inner bark is yellow. The oval
leaves are dark green and approximately
1.5 inches wide by 2 inches long. Com-
mon buckthorn has very dense wood and
thorns near the ends of the branches. Fe -
(See Buckthorn, page 4)
Page 4
Briefs...
Continued from page 2
solid waste collection system.
• Containers must be placed at curb-
side by 6 a.m. the morning of scheduled
pickup; handles should be facing the
house.
• Do not overstuff containers; lids
must be completely closed. Excess waste
that does not fit in the container should be
placed in special bags that are available
for purchase at City Hall, 216 N. Fourth
St.; Cub Foods; Food and Fuel on North
Owens Street; Tom Thumb at County
Road 5/Orleans Street; and Ace Hardware
in the St. Croix Mall. Bags are $2 each
and are sold in minimum lots of five.
Holiday garbage
collection schedule
The city's trash hauler, Waste
Management, generally picks up trash on
the next business day following a holiday.
Both Christmas and the New Year's
holiday fall on Friday this year. Residents
on Friday's collection route will have
pickup on Saturday or Monday.
Residents with questions or concerns
regarding a holiday collection schedule
should call Waste Management, 429-
6766; call in advance of the holiday.
Web site on-line
The official city of Stillwater web site
is back on-line following a three-month
break needed to complete updates and ex-
pansion of the site. Some of the new in-
formation available includes: solid waste
and recycling procedures; Stillwater de-
mographic data; zoning and permit infor-
mation; full, searchable text of the City
Charter and City Code; and updated min-
utes of City Council meetings and pro-
ceedings of the Charter, Planning and
Heritage Preservation commissions.
The web site is located at:
www.ci.stillwater.mn.us.
Comments and suggestions for further
revision are welcome and can be sent via
the feedback option on the web site.
Appliance
pickup changed
Waste Management has changed the
procedure for scheduling appliance
(stoves, refrigerators, washer/dryers, etc.)
pickup. Residents must call Waste
Management, 429-6766, by 1 p.m.
Tuesday, preferably earlier, to ensure
pickup on the following Wednesday.
Alternative corridor
might bring an end
to the bridge impasse
After several months of study and ne-
gotiations, a location for a new interstate
bridge at Stillwater has been selected. Ini-
tially, the Minnesota Department of
Transportation (MnDOT), after many
years of study and plan development, pro-
posed to build a new bridge across the St.
Croix River south of Stillwater. However,
under threat of lawsuit, the National Park
Service (NPS), acting under the Wild and
Scenic Rivers Act, blocked construction
by denying the permit to build the bridge.
The action of NPS was unsuccessfully
challenged by MnDOT in federal court.
Following the federal court decision
denying MnDOTs challenge, an advisory
group consisting of over 25 agencies and
organizations having an interest in the
bridge was formed to determine if an
alternative crossing was feasible and
acceptable. Richard Braun, former
commissioner of transportation for the
state of Minnesota, was asked to develop
and recommend alternatives for the
location and design of a new bridge.
On Sept. 28,1998, the advisory group
gave its support to Braun's recommended
alternative, the so-called "Braun C" alter-
native. The original crossing that was se-
lected by the Minnesota and Wisconsin
departments of transportation (Final EIS
Preferred Alternative) was about 6,300
feet south of the existing lift bridge. The
"Braun C" alternative is about 3,600 feet
south of the existing bridge.
Although the City Council preferred
the original alignment, it gave its support
for the alternative bridge location pro-
vided that the new bridge and road design:
has a minimum impact on Aiple Park; re-
sults in minimal noise; and provides a di-
rect and convenient access to downtown
Stillwater. (Two other alternatives, "Braun
A" and Braun B" were entirely unaccept-
able to the city of Stillwater because of
their proximity to Lowell Park and the
downtown area.)
It would appear that it still will take
several years before a new bridge actually
is built. An updated Environmental Impact
Statement needs to be undertaken because
of the new location, and an acceptable
bridge design also needs to be developed.
Considering that the city of Stillwater has
been anticipating a new bridge since the
1950s, it is hoped that this next process
actually will lead to construction of a new
bridge.
Buckthorn invades
(Continued from page 3)
male buckthorn plants produce blue -black
berries which are readily eaten by birds
and then spread to new areas.
Management of buckthorn is an
ongoing process that will require a
commitment of at least three to four years
on the part of a landowner. Control of
buckthorn in woodland areas requires the
following steps: pull seedlings and young
plants; cut larger plants and any re -
sprouts; and chemically treat stumps with
an herbicide after cutting. Fall is a good
time for cutting and stump treatment.
Glyphosate (Round -Up or Rodeo, for use
near water) is an herbicide often used for
buckthorn control, as is triclopyr (Garton).
Read labels and follow recommended rate
and safety precautions when using.
Remove female trees (those with
berries) as a priority to remove seed
source, then remove remaining male trees
and seedlings. Re -plant native shrubs and
herbaceous plants, such as fems and wild-
flowers, into the woodland after buckthorn
removal to help fill in the understory. In
following years, continue to pull the buck-
thorn seedlings and cut re -sprouts to pre-
vent further growth and seed production.
Avoid chipping and re -use of buckthorn
wood chips as mulch, since the chips are
full of berries and can spread the problem
to new areas.
Vol. 10, No. 3
The new
playground
equipment at
Pioneer Park
has been a
big hit with
youngsters.
The new
equipment,
new walk-
way, and
improve-
ments to the
rest rooms
are part of
the first
phase of
improve-
ments to the
popular park.
Stillwater Scene
Official City Newsletter
Official Newsletter
Stillwater, Minnesota 55082
CAR-RT SORT
BULK RATE
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
Stillwater, MN 55082
Permit No. 206
Postal Patron
August 1998
City planning for 62nd Street area,
Park master plans being developed
An initial meeting for preparation of a
plan for the 62nd Street North area was
held June 11 with about 50-60 interested
people in attendance. Purpose of the meet-
ing was to present existing condition in-
formation and city planning policy for the
area, to review planning issues, and to re-
ceive neighborhood comments.
The 62nd Street North planning area
includes about 200 acres of land bordered
by County Road 5 on the east, Truck
Highway 36 on the south, County Road 15
on the west, and the Nightingale -Croix -
wood neighborhood on the north.
The City's recently adopted compre-
hensive plan provided land use direction
for the area, with single-family residences
to the west and existing single-family
homes and attached townhouse housing to
the east closer to County Road 5. A light
industrial land use designation of campus
research and development is overlaid on
lands north of Trunk Highway 36 and
south of 62nd Street from County Road 5
to County Road 15.
The major issues of discussion at the
meeting were traffic and future possible
road connections and drainage. Neighbors
along Nightingale Boulevard expressed
concerns about the street being extended
to the south and the possibility of cut -
through traffic. Residents along 62nd
Street also were concerned about addi-
tional traffic resulting from development
in the city expansion area west of Long
Lake. The location and design of a new
frontage road connecting County Road 5
to 15, providing access to the light indus-
trial area, was described.
Drainage from the Stillwater West
Business Park also was identified as an is-
sue. Over the years as development to the
east has occurred, the drainage ditch con-
necting the area east of County Road 5 to
Long Lake has widened, eroded and im-
pacted Long Lake During a field trip, ex-
amples of erosion and other drainage way
impacts were examined.
Other aspects of the plan include
utilities, parking, trails, open space and
greenways.
A joint work session is planned for 7
p.m. Monday. Aug. 31, to discuss the
Aiple property and Kolliner Park master
plan. Members of the Stillwater City
(See Planning, page 4)
Page 2
City Briefs Primary kicks off election year
Rose bushes
are a delight
The 477 rose bushes planted along
County Road 5 between Stillwater Mar-
ketplace and Croixwood Boulevard that
were planted two years ago are displaying
a dramatic splash of color this year. The
City wishes to thank volunteers Sharon
Bartlett, Sue Buchman, Doug Stiller and
Gala Trooien who "adopted" the rose
beds, weeding and caring for them for the
past two years.
Web site on-line
The official city of Stillwater web site
is back on-line following a three-month
break needed to complete updates and ex-
pansion of the site. Some of the new in-
formation available includes: solid waste
and recycling procedures; Stillwater de-
mographic data; zoning and permit infor-
mation; full, searchable text of the City
Charter and City Code; and updated min-
utes of City Council meetings and pro-
ceedings of the Charter, Planning and
Heritage Preservation commissions.
The web site is located at:
www.ci.stillwater.mn.us.
Comments and suggestions for further
revision are welcome and can be sent via
the feedback option on the web site.
Appliance
pickup changed
U.S.A. Waste has changed the proce-
dure for scheduling appliance (stoves, re-
frigerators, washer/dryers, etc.) pickup.
Residents must call U.S.A. Waste, 429-
6766, by 1 p.m. Tuesday, preferably ear-
lier, to ensure pickup on the following
Wednesday.
Reminders for safe
recreational fires
The Stillwater Fire Department has a
few reminders regarding recreational fires.
Recreational fue sites can be no more
than three feet in diameter, measured from
the inside of the fire ring, and no more
than three feet in height. The site must be
completely surrounded by non-com-
bustible material, such as rocks, bricks,
blocks or metal rings. Burning material
must be clean fuel -- twigs, branches,
presto logs, cordwood or untreated di-
mensional lumber.
Fire sites must be at least 50 feet
away from any structure. The fire must be
(See Briefs, page 4)
Voters in the city of Stillwater will elect the mayor and council representatives
from Wards 1 and 4 in this year's election.
Four candidates have filed for mayor and three for the council seat from Ward 4,
meaning primary elections will be required for those races.
Mayoral candidates include incumbent Jay Kimble and challengers David "Choc"
Junker, Nance Purcell and Glenn Thompson. Ward 4 candidates are incumbent Gene
"Taco" Bealka and challengers David Green and Gary Funke. (Mr. Funke has
withdrawn as a candidate. However, he withdrew after the statutory deadline. Thus, his
name will still appear on the primary election ballot.)
Two candidates, incumbent Terry Zoller and challenger Dave Junker, filed for the
Ward 1 position; that position will not be on the primary ballot.
The primary election will be held Sept. 15. The two candidates receiving the
highest vote totals in the primary advance to the general election on Nov. 3. Those
elected in the general election take office at the first council meeting in January.
Residents are urged to exercise their right and duty to vote in both the primary and
lections.
ng places are as follows:
inct 1 -- Oak Park Elementary School, 6355 Osman Ave. N.;
Precinct 2 -- First United Methodist Church, Myrtle and Greeley streets;
Precinct 3 -- New Heights charter school (formerly Washington Elementary),
'berry and Everett streets;
Precinct 4 -- Lily Lake Elementary School, 2002 W. Willard St.;
Precinct 5 -- Stonebridge Elementary School, westerly extension of Elm Street.
Voters must e sue f they have moved or changed their name since they last
voted, have never voted, or have not voted in the last four years. Deadline for pre -regis-
tration for the September primary is Aug. 25. For more information, call Washington
County Elections, 430-6188.
Stillwater hires a forester
The City recently hired Kathy Widin, Plant Health Associates Inc., to provide
natural resource protection consulting services and to act as the City's forester. Ms.
Widin has an extensive background in plant pathology. She will assist the City in de-
veloping long-range needs and goals for a forest management program; developing a
tree protection and preservation ordinance; developing updated guidelines for tree
preservation in new development areas; reviewing landscape plans for commercial and
residential development to ensure proper selection of tree species and maintenance of
planted trees; in obtaining Tree City USA status; and in other areas needed to protect
the natural resources of the City.
The City is fortunate to have a well forested environment. Ms Widin's experience
and expertise will help ensure the protection of the existing forest resource and to add
to that resource. She will be writing articles for future City newsletters that will include
information local residents can use in managing and protecting their own trees.
Address numbers are required
The Fire Department reminds property owners of the importance of maintaining
properLy displayed street address numbers of all residential and commercial buildings.
There are some houses with no street numbers displayed and others with numbers that
are obstructed or hard to distinguish from the background. also, some residents have
their house numbers displayed on garage doors which cannot be seen if the door is left
open. Failure to properly display street addresses can hamper fire or ambulance re-
sponse time during an emergency.
Houses and buildings which do not have street addresses properly displayed are in
violation of the Uniform Fire Code which states: Approved numbers or addresses shall
be placed on all new and existing buildings in such a position as to be plainly visible
and legible from the street or road fronting the property. Said numbers shall contrast
from their background.
The Stillwater Fire Department works to provide residents with the most prompt
and efficient service possible. If citizens assist the department by providing clear, well -
placed street address numbers on their homes and businesses, it could improve emer-
gency response time -- and could even save a life.
A PUBLICATIO • OF THE STILLWATER PU : C LIBRARY
VOLUME 3
NUMBER 3
FALL
1998
elf/tile
STILLWATER PUBLIC LIBRARY * 223 NORTH FOURTH STREET * STILLWATER, MN 55082 * 612.439.1675
YOUR VOICE IS
IMPORTANT TO US
The Board and Staff of the
Stillwater Public Library take pride
in the collections and services that
we provide. In choosing materials for
purchase and in planning services,
we try to balance a number of
competing community interests. Our
ability to make good choices is
predicated on our knowledge of the
community. As the Stillwater area
changes and grows, we need to
update that knowledge. To do so, we
are developing a number of ways to
collect data about your wants and
needs for information, for electronic
access, for something good to read,
etc. We know that you are busy
people; but if you are asked to
complete a survey about library use
or participate in a focus group, please
say yes. Staff are always eager to hear
comments about what you like or
what needs to be improved. We
have a suggestion box for your use in
the "rotunda." If there is an item
that we don't have in the collection,
you are welcome to ask us to borrow
it through interlibrary loan. If it's
something you feel we should own,
however, please fill out a bright
yellow suggestion slip and we will
consider it along with other
purchases. We can foster the spirit of
community in our services if we hear
from you!
Lynne Bertalmio, Director
L E T
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday*
HOURS
1
10 A.M.
10 A.M.
1
10 A.M.
10 A.M.
1
- 9 P.M.
- 9P.M.
- 9P.M.
- 9P.M.
- 5P.M.
- 5P.M.
- 5P.M.
* September - May
CHILDREN'S
EVENTS
Preschool Storytimes
An introduction to books and
storytelling for ages 3 to 5
Wed., 10:15 & 11:15 A.M.
Bedtime Storytime
A "pajama party" storytime for
children 3 and older and their
parents. Cosponsored by ECFE.
September 17, October 15,
November 19, December 10
Thursdays at 7 P.M.
Stuffed animals and blankets are
welcome!
Halloween Storytime
Stories and activities
for children 4 and older.
Sunday, October 25
2 P.M.
Wear a costume!
O U R
MIND
BIRTHDAY BOOKS
* * *
FREE!
* * *
So many people were delighted to
receive a birthday card from the
Library last year, that the Birthday
Book program will become a
permanent feature. When you donate
funds to the Library to honor the
birthday of someone you love or
respect, we will send a card, choose a
book, and include a bookplate with
the name and birthdate of the person
to be honored. Just call 439-1675 ext.
18 or pick up a form at the library.
NEW BOARD MEMBER
The Stillwater City Council has
appointed Bill Fredell to a term on
the Library Board of Trustees. Bill has
just retired from the White Bear Lake
school system where he was a media
specialist. Bill's help on the Board will
be especially appreciated as the
Library anticipates the impact that
the Profile of Learning and the
graduation standards will have on
community resources.
WHAT'S STILLWATER
READING?
Katie O'Brien, columnist, favors books
that feature the triumph of the human
spirit over adversity. She recommends
A Blessing on the Moon by Joseph
Skibell, The Color of Water by James
McBride, and One True Thing by
Anna Quindlen.
U N
****beYf 31tft ***
GRAPHIC ACCESS TO
INFORMATION
Graphic access to the Internet is
now available at the Library at
search stations in the Reference
Room on the lower level. The
graphic format should make
information in our catalog and
databases easier to find and
understand. As we expect the
workstations to be very popular, we
have set some guidelines for their
use:
. All stations are available on a first -
come, first -served basis.
.Search sessions are limited to 30
minutes if others are waiting.
.Users must obey all federal, state,
and local laws and regulations.
• Very young children must be
supervised by an adult.
■ A maximum of two people may use
a search station at a time.
.Although the Library has installed
privacy screens, total viewing
privacy cannot be assured.
■ For your own privacy and as a
courtesy to others, please return the
computer to a main menu when you
have completed your search.
.Printing is available at many of the
stations for $.10 per page. It is not
posssible to download to disk.
. Users favorites or bookmark sites
cannot be maintained.
•Staff will help users get started and
will provide normal reference
assistance as time allows. Detailed
instruction cannot be provided.
HOMEBOUND SERVICE
The Library delivers books and
other library materials free of charge
to residents who cannot get to the
Library. Both adults and children
who are temporarily or permanently
unable to reach the library may
request service. Materials may be
kept for three weeks with the
possibility of renewal. To enroll for
service, call the Outreach Librarian
at 439-1675 ext. 25.
SCHOOL ASSIGNMENTS
The primary focus of the Library's
collections and services is to help
both children and adults to become
lifelong learners. To avoid
duplication of school library efforts,
we concentrate on independent
learning, but recognize that many
students do use the public library to
complete school assignments. The
following tips are offered to help
students and parents make the most
of the public library's rich resources:
.Call ahead to find out about
public library materials and services.
. Come . prepared. Bring your library
card, money for copies, and note -
taking supplies.
■ Understand the assignment. Make
certain you understand what you
need and bring a copy of the
assignment sheet to the library.
. Start early, allow plenty of time.
• Be aware of limitations. Some
assignments can cause a run on
materials. Be ready to substitute
materials or modify strategies.
. Ask for help early in the process.
READY FOR
KINDERGARTEN?
A Next Step Kindergarten Storytime
will be presented on on Thursday,
August 27, at 7 P.M. Planned in
conjunction with the Learning
Readiness Program of ECFE, the
hour-long storytime explores the joys
and fears of starting kindergarten.
FOOTLIGHTS FEASTIVAL
The Library was delighted to offer a
two -week-long Indonesian puppetry
workshop for children in August,
culminating in a puppet play with
music provided by an ensemble from
the Schubert Club's gamelan
orchestra. Don't despair if you missed
this truly magical performance. It will
be cablecast by local Access Channel
10. Scenes from the workshop and
performance will also be featured on
Regional Channel 6's cable program
All About Kids. To find out when the
program will air, call 439-1675 ext.
14. Copies of the video will be
available for check out at the library.
CONTINUING ED FOR
CHILDCARE PROVIDERS
Librarians from Washington County
will discuss the importance of reading
aloud to young children at Read,
Read, Read to Children, a series of
workshops for childcare providers.
The workshop scheduled for the
Stillwater area will be held on Sat.,
November 14, 9 to 11 A.M. at the
Stillwater Public Library. In addition
to offering tips on how to read aloud
effectively, the presentation will
feature the Library's storytime kits,
recently developed for childcare
providers. To register or for more
information, call 430-6800.
Page 3
Meet your city staff
Chris Zeuli
Chris Zeuli, Stillwater's
newest full-time firefighter, was
born and raised in Stillwater. He
graduated from Stillwater High
School in 1985 and earned a de-
gree in fmance from the Univer-
sity of St. Thomas, graduating in
1990.
Chris started as a part-timer
eight years ago and "instantly"
decided he had found his career
path. He completed the neces-
sary schooling and licensing re-
quirements while waiting for the
opportunity to obtain a full-time
position, which he did one
month ago. He also does the of-
fice work and books for an elec-
trical contract company.
Chris is a busy husband and
dad. He and his wife, Gina, have
ait'
di.
three daughters, four -year -old,
Alex, and seven -month -old
twins, Sydney and Shelby.
Spending time with his family
tops his list of hobbies. He also
golfs as often as he can and en-
joys snowmobiling.
Kathy Rogness
If you call City Hall for in-
formation, you'll be speaking
with Kathy Rogness, reception-
ist/clerk. She handles all kinds
of calls, like the one from a
woman from Pound, Wis., who
called City Hall asking for direc-
tions to Lindstrom.
A native of the Stillwater
area, Kathy grew up in Bayport
and graduated from Stillwater
High School. She worked at An-
dersen's for a time after high
school graduation and then spent
time raising a family. Prior to
joining the City in May of this
year, she was a paraprofessional
with School District 834 for five
years.
Kathy says she's enjoying
her new position with the City,
especially the public contact in-
volved with her job. And having
lived in Stillwater for 21 years,
she knows a lot of the people
who come in or call City Hall.
Kathy has three children, a
24-year-old stepson, Eric, and
two daughters. McKenzie, age
19, and Kim, age 15. As far as
hobbies, Kathy puts it this way,
"When I'm not here (at work),
I'm golfing."
Three longtime city employees retire
Three longtime City employees have
retired during the past four months. The
recent retirees are Chief of Police Don
Beberg, Assistant Public Works Director
George Diethert and Fire Department
Captain Paul Glaser. The three individuals
have a combined service record of over 88
years.
Don Beberg was hired as a patrol of-
ficer in 1968 and advanced to become the
city's police chief on March 16, 1992. He
retired July 1.
George Diethert was hired as assistant
public works director in 1975 and was re-
sponsible for supervising the maintenance
activities of the Public Works Department.
He retired Feb. 27.
Paul Glaser was hired as a part-time
firefighter in 1963. He became a full-time
member of the Fire Department in January
of 1981 and was promoted to captain in
December 1989. He retired on Aug. 5.
The City will miss these employees
and their dedicated service.
Help keep our lakes and rivers clean
Nonpoint source pollution closes
beaches, kills wildlife, poisons drinking
water resources, and causes dangerous al-
gae problems in waterways. In most cases,
this pollution comes from various land use
practices -- including the daily activities
of people who inhabit the land. Unlike
specific points pollution, such as factory
discharge pipes, nonpoint source pollution
comes from many different sources, in-
cluding our homes.
Nonpoint source pollution includes
nutrients such as nitrogen and phospho-
rous from fertilizers and septic tank sys-
tems, sediments from construction, pesti-
cides, herbicides, petroleum products, and
other pollutants. There are many ways all
of us can help prevent nonpoint pollution.
We can:
• Use pesticides and herbicides spar-
ingly on lawns and gardens and only after
considering more natural methods of con-
trol;
• Protect shrubs, vines and other
plants that grow along shorelines of wa-
terways;
• Keep toxins, such as engine oils,
paint thinners, and pesticides out of sew-
ers, septic tanks and storm water drains;
dispose of these types of toxic materials at
household hazardous waste collection
sites;
• If you change your own motor oil,
make sure the used oil is collected and not
disposed of on the ground; your solid
waste collector is required to collect drain
oil if placed in proper containers.
• Use only slow -release fertilizer
which will not only slow the amount of
fertilizer that will be dissolved in a rain-
fall, but will reduce the number of times
you'll have to apply fertilizer in a season.
• Use fertilizers with little or no phos-
phorous, the worst culprit for causing
weeds to grow in lakes. To identify phos-
phorous content, look at the three numbers
on the fertilizer bag; the middle number
indicates the amount of phosphorous.
Check with a lawn and garden center
or the Washington County Extension Ser-
vice regarding zero -phosphorous brands.
• When applying fertilizer, follow the
manufacturer's instructions. Do not apply
too much -- the excess will just run off in
storm water.
• Try to avoid getting any fertilizer on
hard surfaces. If some accidentally gets on
the sidewalk or driveway, sweep or vac-
uum it up.
Simple and easy ideas to keep lakes
and rivers clean so they can be enjoyed by
all -- now and in the future.
Page 4
Briefs. .
•
Continued from page 2
completely extinguished before leaving
the site. Residents planning recreational
fires are reminded to respect neighboring
property owners and to be aware of
weather conditions, air quality and burn-
ing bans so the fire will not create a nui-
sance or health or safety hazard.
Recreational fires do not require a
permit, but the Fire Department should be
notified that a recreational fire is planned.
All other burning requires a permit and
on -site inspection by the Fire Department.
Anyone with questions is welcome to call
the department at 351-4950.
City numbers
The city has installed a new telephone
system. The new phone numbers are:
Administration/Finance 430-8800
Community Development 430-8820
Building Inspection 430-8825
Engineering/Public Works 430-8830
Police (non -emergency) 351-4900
Fire (non -emergency) 351-4950
Other city numbers are:
Parks 439-4561
Ice Arena 439-1337
City Garage 439-5933
Library 439-1675
Collection rules
Residents are reminded of the rules
and regulations pertaining to the city's
solid waste collection system.
• Containers must be placed at curb-
side by 6 a.m. the morning of scheduled
pickup; handles should be facing the
house.
• Do not overstuff containers; lids
must be completely closed. Excess waste
that does not fit in the container should be
placed in special bags that are available
for purchase at City Hall, 216 N. Fourth
St.; Cub Foods; Food and Fuel on North
Owens Street; Tom Thumb at County
Road 5/Orleans Street; and Ace Hardware
in the St. Croix Mall. Bags are $2 each
and are sold in minimum lots of five.
Holiday garbage
collection schedule
The city's trash hauler, United Waste
Systems, generally picks up trash on the
next business day following a holiday.
Labor Day is Monday, Sept. 7. So,
most of Monday's route will be picked up
on Tuesday, Sept. 8, along with Tuesday's
regular route.
Residents with questions or concerns
regarding a holiday collection schedule
should call USA Waste, 429-6766; call in
advance of the holiday.
Recreation center
Residents have been watching with
interest as the new St. Croix Valley
Recreation Center comes closer to
Planning
completion. The field house dome
is up, and the parking lot nearly
completed. Anticipating opening is
now the first of December.
(Continued from page 1)
Council, Planning Commission, Park and
Recreation Board, Parking Commission
and Heritage Preservations Commission
will hear a presentation of the detailed
master plan by SRF Consulting Group
Inc., the master planning consultant hired
by the City.
To date, two opinion surveys have
been circulated and two public open
houses have been held to receive comment
on possible park uses and on plan alterna-
tives prepared by the consultant. At the
Aug. 31 meeting, a detailed plan of the
preferred alternative will be presented and
discussed.
The plan for the Aiple property, a
city -owned site located on the St. Croix
River, south of downtown, will include
trails, picnic areas and visitors' center.
An informal open house for public
discussion of the plan will be held from 6
to 8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 10.
Both meetings will be held in the
council chambers at Stillwater City Hall,
216 N. Fourth St. Anyone with questions
should contact City Planner Sue Fitzgerald
at 430-8822.
Traffic sign criteria explained
The Public Works Department re-
ceives many calls and requests for signs to
reduce the speed of traffic on residential
streets. The Manual on Uniform Traffic
Control Devices provides criteria and
regulations for installation of signs.
Some commonly requested signs and
the reasons why requests can or cannot be
implemented are listed below.
Speed Limit Signs
Although the City Council many
times has recognized the desire to lower
speed limits below 30 mph in residential
areas, state law precludes such action.
State law does not allow local communi-
ties to designate or establish speed limits.
Stop Signs
When a petition for stop sign installa-
tion is received, the City performs an
analysis of intersection accidents, a speed
study, traffic counts, and an analysis of in-
tersection clear sight distances. If the in-
tersection meets the necessary criteria, the
City will authorize the installation of the
stop sign. Unwarranted installation of stop
signs many times creates a false sense of
security for pedestrians, while placing an
unexpected traffic control device, which
many times is inadvertently overlooked by
motorists, thereby creating a greater safety
hazard. Stop signs should not be used to
control the speed of traffic. Normally, ve-
hicles will increase their speed after stop-
ping for an unwarranted stop sign.
Speed Bumps
While recognizing that speed bumps
have an inherent effect on speed, the
bumps present a significant hazard to am-
bulances, fire trucks, snowplows and bi-
cyclists. Therefore, it has been determined
installation of speed bumps is not in the
best interest of this community.
Vol. 10; Issue 2
Stiliwater Scene
Official City Newsletter Official City Newsletter I
Stillwater, Minnesota 55082
CAR -RT SORT
BULK RATE
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
Stillwater, MN 55082
Permit No. 206
Postal Patron
May 1998
Thanks to a mild winter,
work on the sports complex
is on schedule for an
October opening. The City
Council recently approved
change orders, including
installation of a concrete
floor under the indoor ice
surface to allow the area to
be used for non -ice
activities during the off
season. In photo, Richard
Jarosiewicz of Hugo for the
exterior face of the facility
City forms Open Space Committee
As a result of City Council and community concern for the
preservation of woodlands and other open space resources, the
City Council has formed an ad hoc Open Space Committee. Com-
mittee members are Laurie Maher, Corey Mohan, John Baer and
Leah Peterson.
In the past, the city has worked with community members to
inventory and evaluate open space areas. Also, a survey was con-
ducted showing Stillwater area (city and township) residents were
interested in financially supporting city purchase of open space
areas through higher taxes ($18 a year).
At the March 17, 1998, City Council meeting, the Open Space
Committee was officially formed and given the following charge:
• Lake Woods. Strictly enforce wetland setback requirements
— 50 -foot setbacks for roads or buildings — in the Liberty
on the Lake Development. Obtain additional information on
the availability and cost of the property west of the new de-
velopments. Develop an open space trail system connecting
Manning Avenue through the Liberty /Legends developments
to Long Lake and the new city park land. Review alterna-
tives to minimize development impacts on woods.
• Review the tree protection ordinance to ensure it provides
maximum legal protection for significant trees.
• Review and update the city -wide open space site list.
• Obtain information on open space funding programs such as
LCMR, Green Corridors, Natural Scenic Grant Program,
ICETEA and others to assist with funding of open space pro-
gram.
• Meet with Land Trust and open space organizations to see
what services are available.
• Review development incentives to preserve open space.
Anyone interested in working with the Open Space Committee
or serving on the committee is welcome to call a committee mem-
ber or Steve Russell at 430 -8820.
City Briefs
City numbers
The city has installed a new telephone
system. The new phone numbers are:
Administration/Finance 430 -8800
Community Development 430 -8820
Building Inspection 430 -8825
Engineering /Public Works 430 -8830
Police (non - emergency) 351 -4900
Fire (non - emergency) 351 -4950
Other city numbers are:
Parks 439 -4561
Ice Arena 439 -1 337
City Garage 439 -5933
Library 439 -1675
Appliance pickup changed
Effective March 4, 1998, pickup of
appliances (stoves, refrigerators, freezers,
washer /dryers, etc.) will take place on
Wednesdays only. Residents must call USA
Waste, 429 -6766, by 4 p.m. Tuesdays (pref-
erably sooner) to schedule pickup of such
items.
Collection rules
Residents are reminded of the rules and
regulations pertaining to the city's solid
waste collection system.
• Containers must be placed at curbside
by 6 a.m. on the morning of scheduled
pickup; handles should be facing the house.
• Do not overstuff containers; lids must
be completely closed. Excess waste that
does not fit in the container should be placed
in special bags that are available for pur-
chase at City Hall, 216 N. Fourth St.; Cub
Food; Food and Fuel on North Owens
Street; Tom Thumb at County Road 5 /Or-
leans Street; and Ace Hardware in the St.
Croix Mall. Bags are $2 each and are sold
in minimum lots of five.
Holiday garbage
collection schedule
The city's trash hauler, United Waste
Systems, generally picks up trash on the
next business day following a holiday.
Memorial Day is Monday, May 25.
Most of Monday's route will be picked up
on Tuesday, May 26, along with Tuesday's
regular route. The same schedule will be
followed for Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 7.
The July 4th holiday falls on Saturday
so there will be no change in the pickup
schedule.
(continued on back page)
Election filings open July 7
Stillwater voters will elect a mayor and City Council representatives from Ward 1
and Ward 4 in the November election. Candidate filing opens July 7 and continues through
4:30 p.m. July 21. Candidates can file in the Administration Department at City Hall
during regular business hours, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Filing fee is $5.
City Council elections are non - partisan. The mayor runs for the seat at- large; coun-
cil members run by ward residency. If more than two candidates file for an office, a
primary election will be held Sept. 15. The two candidates receiving the highest vote
totals in the primary advance to the general election on Nov. 3. Those elected in the
general election take office at the first council meeting in January.
Stillwater's City Council consists of the mayor and four council members, all of
whom serve four -year terms; terms are staggered. Elections are held in November of
even - numbered years. Council representatives from Ward 2 and Ward 3 will be on the
ballot in the 2000 election. For more information, contact City Clerk Morli Weldon,
430 -8802.
* * * * * *
Residents interested in serving as election judges should contact Weldon. Training
is provided. Judges can choose to be paid an hourly wage or volunteer their services. By
state law, election judges are allowed time off from work without loss of wages with a
20 -day prior notice to the employer. Students age 16 and older may serve as trainee
election judges.
Voters must register if they have moved or changed their name since they last voted,
have never voted, or have not voted in the last four years. Deadline for pre - registration
for the September primary is Aug. 25. For more information, call Washington County
Elections, 430 -6188.
City has weather - warning system
The devastating tornadoes that struck the St. Peter area of Minnesota on March 29
serve as a sad reminder that the severe weather season is upon us. Here are some of the
rules of safety associated with severe weather and the weather - warning system in place
in Minnesota.
• Severe Thunderstorm Watch means weather conditions are conducive for the for-
mation of severe thunderstorms, with high winds, hail, heavy rain, lightning and pos-
sible tornadoes. When a Severe Thunderstorm Watch is issued, be alert and stay in-
formed of changing weather conditions.
• Severe Thunderstorm Warning is issued when thunderstorms have been reported
or indicated on radar. Stay tuned to a radio or TV for the latest advisory information and
be prepared to take shelter. Tornadoes may accompany severe thunderstorms. Heavy
rains causing flash flooding, large hail, high damaging winds and lightning also may
accompany severe thunderstorms.
• Tornado Watch means weather conditions are favorable for the formation of tor-
nadoes. Be alert and stay informed of changing weather conditions.
• Tornado Warning means a tornado has been sighted. Seek shelter immediately.
Take a portable radio to stay informed of changing conditions.
The city has a total emergency warning coverage system. 127- decibel, rotating
sirens, which provide a coverage area of four square miles, are located on the water
tower near Lily Lake Elementary School, on McKusick Lake Road near Oak Glen Coun-
try Club, Wilard and South Third streets, and Moore and North Fourth streets. There
also is a 102 decibel siren at Nightingale Boulevard and Woodridge Lane in the
Croixwood area. The sirens are radio activated. In case of a severe weather warning,
Washington County will activate the sirens to shorten response time; the city also has
the capability to activate the sirens, if for some reason the county was unable to do so.
People should always be alert to threatening weather conditions. The sirens are
"outdoor warning" sirens and may not always be heard indoors, if there are heavy winds/
rain, for example. Also, when sirens are sounded in a weather emergency, an all -clear
will not be sounded. The all -clear message will be given on radio /TV.
VOLUME 3
NUMBER 2
SPRING
1998
A PUBLICATI:/N OF THE STILLWATER PI „LIC LIBRARY
jj eYftif e
* * *
FREE!
* * *
STILLWATER PUBLIC LIBRARY * 223 NORTH FOURTH STREET * STILLWATER, MN 55082 * 612.439.1675
NEW ENDOWMENT: THE
ATHENA FUND
Inflation may have been licked in
the general economy, but book prices
continue to rise, eating into the
budget for this basic staple of library
service. To supplement what tax
funds can provide, the library is
continuing the Birthday Book
program where you may donate funds
for a book to honor someone's
birthday. The library has also
reached an agreement with the St.
Croix Valley Community Foundation
to create the Athena Fund, an
endowment for the library. Interest
from this endowment will be used to
purchase both books for the pursuit
of wisdom and access to electronic
data bases to provide library users
with the latest information. Gifts to
the library are tax deductible. For
information on Birthday Books and
how to donate to the Athena Fund,
please call me at the library.
Lynne Bertalmio, Director
PEDESTRIANS CROSSING
Over 600 people a day come to the
library. City Hall, Ascension Church,
Trinity Church, and Family Services
are also popular destinations. Please
drive carefully on North Fourth
Street and note the two pedestrian
crosswalks in front of Trinity and the
library. It's not just polite to yield to
pedestrians, it's the law!
L E T
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday*
o u R
HOURS
1
10 A.M.
10 A.M.
1
10 A.M.
10 A.M.
1
- 9P.M.
- 9P.M.
- 9 P.M.
- 9 P.M.
- 5 P.M.
- 5P.M.
- 5P.M.
* September - May
CHILDREN S
EVENTS
Preschool Storytimes
An introduction to books and
storytelling for ages 3 to 5
Wed., 10:15 & 11:15 A.M.
Lunch Bunch
An hour of stories
for children ages 6 - 12
Tuesdays at Noon
July 7, 14, 21
Bring a bag lunch!
FAMILY PROGRAM
Ice Cream Social
Join us on the library lawn for the
Second Annual Library
Lumberjack Days Ice Cream Social
following the Lumberjack Days
Parade
Sunday, July 26
Free and open to the public!
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
VACANCY
Applications are now being taken for
an opening on the library's volunteer
Board of Trustees for a term to expire
January, 2001.The Board is the
governing and policy- making body for
the library. This is an important and
fulfilling way to serve the community.
The Board consists of nine members,
appointed by the City Council, with
three year terms. The Board meets on
the first Tuesday of the month at 7
P.M. Criteria for appointment include,
but are not necessarily limited to: an
interest in libraries, knowledge of the
community, and experience on boards
or governing bodies. Residents of
Stillwater are eligible for
appointment. Interested citizens
willing to serve on the Board may
pick up an application at City Hall or
call 430 -8800. Completed applications
must be returned no later than Noon,
May 20, 1998.
WHAT'S STILLWATER
READING?
In retirement, Dr. Tom Murphy
reports more time for reading.
Although he regularly checks the
displays of new books, he also has
more time to look up some old
favorites: the historical fiction of
Patrick O'Brian, the metaphysical
thrillers of Brian Moore, and the
travel books of Paul Theroux.
u N
I N D £ E P
***Abell life.***
GRAPHIC ACCESS TO
INFORMATION
Graphic access to the Internet will
be available at the library as soon as
PCs for searching are installed. This
will make a whole new realm of
information available to library
users. Soon afterward, graphic
searching of our own catalog will be
available on these PCs. The graphic
format should make information in
our catalog and databases easier to
find and understand. For those
familiar with our current text -based
catalog access, don't worry! We will
continue to run both systems for
some time into the future.
Also under development is a Web
page providing access to information
about the library and to our catalog
and databases. If there is
information about the library that
you would like to have available on
the Web page, please let us know.
NONFICTION FOR KIDS
To provide a full range of
information to all library users,
juvenile and adult nonfiction books
are interfiled on the library's lower
level. This helps adults who are
unfamiliar with a subject find
introductory books and gives
children a chance to move on to
more challenging materials when
they are ready. Sometimes, however,
it makes it a little more difficult for
children to find what they're
seeking. To help, we have prepared a
bookmark with the Dewey Decimal
number for many topics that interest
kids most. Just ask for it at the
Information Desk.
HOMEBOUND SERVICE
Starting this fall, the library will be
expanding its services to the
homebound population. People who
are unable to leave home due to
health problems and have no family
members to run errands for them
can feel cut off from the community
and many of the pursuits they once
enjoyed. If you are unable to leave
home because of health problems or
if you know someone who is,
homebound service may be the
answer. The library will match the
homebound person with a volunteer
who will visit on a regular basis to
deliver and pick up library
materials.
Volunteers are also needed for this
important service. To enroll for
service or volunteer to deliver
materials, call Carolyn Blocher at
439 -1675 ext. 25.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!
Volunteers are needed for a number
of summer projects. The Children's
Department is looking for teen
volunteers to help with summer
programming and marchers of all
ages for the library's contingent in
the Lumberjack Days Parade. To
volunteer, call Gail Nordstrom at
439- 1675 ext. 14.
Also, volunteers are needed to work
at the library's Lumberjack Days Ice
Cream Social on Sunday, July 26,
right after the parade. What an
opportunity to wield a scoop and
et paid in ice cream! To volunteer,
all Carolyn Blocher at 439 -1675
xt. 25.
SUMMER READING:
LIBRARY KIDS FROM TOP
TO BOTTOM!
The library is planning a sumer filled
with reading and activities for
children and their families. The
Summer Reading Program kicks off
on June 15, with reading journals,
bookmarks, stickers, and buttons by
children's author and illustrator Janet
Stevens, with the theme Library Kids
from Top to Bottom. Be sure to stop
by the library for more details on how
children may participate.
Free entertainment for families will
be featured on Thursday evenings.
Co- sponsored by ECFE, these
programs begin at 6:30 P.M. and take
place on the library lawn (in case of
inclement weather, an indoor site will
be announced). Please bring blankets
or lawn chairs.
July 9
July 16
July 23
The Flyers
Music & dance
Bill the Juggler
Comedy & juggling
(MELSA sponsored)
Stories from the
Laughing Chair
with storyteller
Jerry Blue
August 6 Summer
Extravaganza
Music & puppetry
(watch the
newspapers for
details)
As with all library programs, if you or
your child have a disability and need
special assistance, please call the
library at least 10 days before the
program to request assistance.
HAZARDOUS WASTE
IN YOUR HOME?
Bring unwanted or unusable home, garage and
garden chemicals to the Household Hazardous
Waste Collection in Stillwater.
WHAT TO BRING*
✓ Used Oil, Oil Filters, Anti -freeze,
Other Auto Fluids
✓ Pesticides, Garden Chemicals, Insecticides
✓ Paint Thinner, Solvents, Gasoline
✓ Photographic Chemicals
V Ni-CAD Batteries (Rechargeable)
✓ Drain Cleaner, Other Cleaners
V Pool Chemicals
V Paints, Stains, Varnishes
V Full or Partially Full Aerosol Containers
V Driveway Sealer, Roof Coatings
✓ Acids, Bases
✓ Fluorescent lamps
V Any other poisonous, flammable or
corrosive household products
* Proof of County residency (such as
a driver's license) is required.
NOTE: Business waste is not accepted.
CHECK OUT THE
REUSE TABLE
FOR FREE
PRODUCTS
"One person's
trash is another
one's treasure."
Many products brought into the collections are
perfectly good. Products that are in good condition
and are currently sold over-the-counter, are available
for FREE at the reuse table.
'PRODUCT EYCHANGE
HOURS
Saturday, May 16,1998 9:00 a.m. — 1:00 p.m.
The Household Hazardous Waste Collection is
located at the Lily Lake Ice Arena, 1208 South
Greeley Street.
d.
Household Hazardous
Waste Collection
Stillwater
Lily Lake Ice Arena
1208 South Greeley Street
A
N
ChvrehiIl St.
N
w
There is no fee to dispose of household hazardous
waste at the collection. Household Hazardous
Waste Management is a program of the Wash-
ington County Health, Environment and Land
Management Department. If you have questions or
comments about this program or need assistance
due to disability or language barrier,
call the Department of Health,
Environment & Land Management at
430-6770 or 430-6655 (TDD 439-3220).
Equal Employment opportunity/Affirmative Action
Reuse
Meet your city staff
Kim Kallestad
Kim Kallestad is the new chief of
the Stillwater Fire Department.
Kallestad, 41, comes here from St.
Louis Park where he started his ca-
reer 20 years ago as a full- time
firefighter. His most recent assign-
ment was that of battalion chief/fire
marshal].
He likes action and helping
people, and becoming a firefighter
just seemed to fit those likes. So, he
started taking the civil service exams
when he finished schooling, and was
hired by St. Louis Park after his sec-
ond test. "It's been a wonderful ca-
reer so far," he says.
Kallestad said he decided to pur-
sue the chiefs position here because
he saw it as "a unique challenge and
opportunity" to head up a fire depart-
ment.
Although Kallestad just assumed
his new post March 30 and he's still
developing a "snapshot" of where the
department currently stands, his
goals are to "provide the leadership
for professionalism and to provide
the community with the most effi-
cient fire fighting and emergency ser-
vices we can get based on available
resources."
In addition to leading the fire de-
partment, Kallestad will serve as fire
marshal investigating fires, enforcing
fire/building codes, doing building
inspections, and providing safety
education.
Kallestad has been married for 19
years. He and his wife, Carol, are the
parents of a 16-year-old daughter,
Katie, and 14-year-old son, Casey.
The family currently resides at Bear
Trap Lake in Amery, Wis.
His hobbies include water skiing
and scuba diving, and, yes, he plans
to become part of the Stillwater Fire
Department's diving rescue team. He
also enjoys rappelling and rock
climbing, also useful rescue skills in
the St. Croix Valley area.
John Zizzo
Patrolman John Zizzo joined the
Stillwater Police Department on
April 1, 1997, and he couldn't be
happier. The department and people
he works with are team oriented,
approachable and ready to give good
advice — "the best I've ever worked
with, without a doubt," he says.
Zizzo didn't grow up wanting to
be a police officer. He grew up as-
suming that after graduation from
high school, he'd work in his
brother's business in Boston, Mass.
So after graduation in 1987, he
headed out to Boston. Less than a
year later, he returned to St. Paul and
a short time later decided he'd bet-
ter go to college to prepare himself
for a career — "something he'd like
to do for the rest of his life."
Although he's not exactly sure
why, he settled on law enforcement.
He attended Lakewood Community
College where he earned an associ-
ates degree in law enforcement and
also took the required 10- week
training course at the Law Enforce-
ment Training Center.
He spent 18 months with the
Minnesota State Fair police and also
worked as a field service technician
for Pella Windows before joining the
Stillwater Police Department.
After a year on the job, Zizzo is
happy with his career choice, "It's
everything I thought it would be"
Zizzo is married. He and his wife,
Janice, have a three -year -old son,
Alex, and an infant son, Zachary,
nearly a month old. Spending time
with his family is of "major impor-
tance" to John. He also enjoys fish-
ing and hunting.
Lots of summer
fun is in store
Music on the Waterfront kicks off a summer of entertainment
and fun in Stillwater. The concert series returns to Lowell Park
this summer.
The series opens with the Honeydogs performing on June 24.
The popular Dweebs return to Stillwater on July 1. Also making a
return appearance will be the Sinfonia, under the direction of Jay
Fischman, on July 8. Peter Mayer will close the series on July 15.
July 29 is an optional concert date.
All concerts will be held in Lowell Park from 7 to 10 p.m.
There is no charge for admission.
Lumberjack Days '98 gets under way with a kickoff wine tast-
ing and dinner party cruise on Friday, July 17.
The fun begins in earnest on Tuesday, July 21, with the re-
lease of the first treasure hunt clue. A Drum Beauty Minnesota '98
preview, featuring the Madison Scouts, will be held in Lowell Park
that evening.
Drum Beauty '98 will be held in Robert L. Miller Stadium on
Wednesday and Thursday, July 23 and 24. Participating corps the
first night of competition will include the Americanos of Menasha,
Wis.; Troopers of Casper, Wyo.; Pioneer of Milwaukee, Wis.; Colts
of Dubuque, Iowa; Magic of Orlando, Orlando, Fla.; Madison
Scouts; and the Crossmen, Newark, Del. On Thursday, the Pio-
neer, Madison Scouts and Crossmen will be joined by the Blue
Stars of La Crosse, Wis.; Les 'Etoiles de Dorion, Dorion, Quebec,
Canada; Blue Coats of Canton, Ohio; and Phantom Regiment of
Rockford, Loves Park, Ill.
The carnival, food vendors and exhibitors will be in Lowell
Park Thursday through Sunday, July 27. Lumberjack shows will
take place Friday through Sunday. Saturday's events range from a
10 mile run to a kids fest with a pet parade and penny scramble to
bed races to an authentic 1860s baseball game to be played at the
Old Athletic Field.
A polka in the park featuring the Six Fat Dutchman is sched-
uled for Thursday evening.
The first night, Friday, July 24, of the Music Spectacular will
feature an as yet unnamed performer. On Saturday, "The Guess
Who" will take to the floating stage in Lowell Park. On Sunday,
it's an encore by Three Dog Night.
The grand parade featuring a high school band competition
gets under way at 1 p.m. Sunday, July 26. "Thunder in the Valley
II," fireworks display, will bring a spectacular close to LJD '98.
Nuisance ordinance enforced
The city of Stillwater has a Nuisance Ordinance and an Aban-
doned Motor Vehicle Ordinance, and the city has an enforcement
officer, Leo Miller, who makes sure residents abide by the ordi-
nances.
Miller, retired Stillwater Police investigator, works part-time.
Messy yards and high grass top the list of nuisance complaints,
Miller says. Other nuisances, according to the ordinance, include
shrubs or bushes which create blind traffic corners, trees which
overhang into the street, firewood that is not stacked properly (fire-
wood can't be stacked bordering streets or sidewalks), and debris,
such as scrap lumber or wood, littering the yard.
(continued on page 4)
Briefs Continued ...
The week of Thanksgiving, most of
Thursday's route will be picked up on Fri-
day, along with Friday's regular route.
Both Christmas and the New Year's
holiday fall on Friday this year. Residents
on Friday's collection route will have
pickup on Saturday or Monday.
Residents with questions or concerns
regarding a holiday collection schedule
should call United Waste Systems, 429-
6766; call in advance of the holiday.
Dog licenses due
Dog owners are reminded that their
animal must be licensed by May 1. The
yearly license fee is $5; a certificate of
rabies immunization is required. Licenses
can be purchased at City Hall during regu-
lar office hours, Monday through Friday,
8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Nuisance
(continued from page 3)
Miller also addresses public health
concerns caused by garbage.
Abandoned motor vehicles rank
right behind messy yards on the viola-
tion list, Miller says. According to state
statute and the city's ordinance, an aban-
doned vehicle is one that is no longer op-
erable or one with license tabs which
have been expired for over 90 days.
Owners of such a vehicle must ei-
ther dispose of the car or store it inside a
garage.
When the program was first initiated
in 1993, Miller found most violations by
going out into the field. Now, about half
of the violations he addresses are com-
plaints phoned in by the public. Residents
who wish to make a complaint can call
Miller at the police department, 351-
4900; complainants do not have to leave
their name.
When Miller receives a complaint or
notices a violation, the properly owner
or vehicle owner is sent a "courtesy let-
ter" advising them they have 10 days to
correct the problem. Miller then revisits
the property. If the problem has not been
corrected, the owner receives a warning
letter and another five days. If the prob-
lem still is not corrected five days after
the warning letter, a citation is issued.
Violations of the ordinances are misde-
meanors with a penalty of a $700 fine
and/or 90 days in jail; citations require a
court appearance.
Miller says the public has been very
cooperative.
Plans being developed for
62nd Street, Aiple property
62nd Street
The city has issued request for proposals for preparation of a plan for the 62nd Street
North area, between County Road 5 and Manning Avenue. The plan is to address land use,
public facilities, road access, open space/parks and pedestrian pathways.
Residents in the area will be invited to participate in the plan study. Plan preparation
is expected to begin in May, with completion in October. The Planning Commission will
oversee plan preparation and make a final plan recommendation to the City Council for
approval.
Anyone who has questions on the plan study or who would like to participate in the
planning process should contact the Planning Department, 430-8820.
Aiple property
The Aiple property, located along the St. Croix River south of the Main Street parking
lot to north of Sunnyside Marina, will return to city ownership later this year. This prop-
erty, along with Kolliner Park on the Wisconsin side of the river, offers a wonderful oppor-
tunity to expand the city's park and open space system.
The City Council directed staff to proceed with the planning process. SRF Consulting
Group Inc., a group that has worked on the St. Paul and Minneapolis riverfronts, was
selected to assist the city in preparing a plan.
SRF has submitted a schedule of their proposed work plan. The schedule includes
tasks to be performed, committee meetings, public meetings and City Council meetings.
The committee working with SRF on the plan preparation will include members of
the Heritage Preservation Commission, Planning Commission, Park and Recreation Board,
Downtown Parking Commission, and local residents.
The master plan will be prepared over the summer and presented to the City Council
for approval this tall.
Residents who are interested in the project or who want to be on the meeting mailing
list should call City Hall, 430-8822.
Public hearing meeting dates will be published in the local newspapers.
The first public meeting will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 7, at City Hall.
Pay parking starts May 15
The city's downtown pay parking program is in effect May 15th through Oct. 4. The
South Main and River lots are in the pay parking program.
The '98 fees are $3 for the entire day or $1 for one and one-half hours. The $3 rate is
the same as last year. The $1 rate is new this year to accommodate lunch time parking and
other short-term parking demand at a reduced rate. A new ticket machine can provide
change for up to $20 bills.
Last year, the pay parking program generated about $100,000 to operate the program
and make parking improvements. The South Main lot will be reconstructed and the River
lot resurfaced using proceeds from the pay parking program.
The Downtown Parking Committee members are Connie Adams, Diane Rollie, Kevin
LaCasse, Bob Lillyblad, Dave Swanson, Richard Chilson and Karl Ranum, chairperson.
The committee meets monthly to oversee downtown parking conditions. If you have com-
ments about downtown parking conditions, contact a committee member or city planning
department staff at 430-8820.
Are you recycling?
Please do!
Vol. 10; Issue 1
Stillwater Scene
Official City Newsletter
Official City Newsletter
Stillwater, Minnesota 55082
CAR-RT SORT
BULK RATE
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
Stillwater, MN 55082
Permit No. 206
Postal Patron
February 1998
County Rd. 15
Council OKs
two Phase I
PUD
projects
Planning for Phase I of the city's ex-
pansion area is progressing. The Phase I
annexation area, located west of Long Lake
and south of County Road 12, was annexed
to the city in October 1996, and the city has
been working with developers since that
time. Two subdivisions, Liberty on the Lake
and The Legends of Stillwater, received
Planning Commission approval on Jan. 26.
The Liberty on the Lake development
consists of 350 total housing units and 6.2
acres of village commercial development
at the southeast corner of highways 12 and
15. The housing units include 40
townhomes; the balance of the units will
be single-family homes.
The Legends of Stillwater development
consists of 155 single-family homes.
The developers will provide an exten-
sive system of trails, sidewalks, parks and
open space and recreational facilities. Es-
pecially attractive are the trails adjacent to
Long Lake.
Several public meetings have been held
during the past few months to review and
discuss the proposed developments. The
City Council will be reviewing the plans for
conceptual approval in February. It is an-
ticipated that final approval of the develop-
ments will take place in March or early
April. Construction of streets and utilities
is expected to begin shortly thereafter, with
some housing construction this summer.
Construction and financing of the
streets and utilities, including trunk utili-
ties that eventually will serve other devel-
Highway 36
(Continued, page 4)
City Has Pavement Management Plan
The city of Stillwater adopted a pavement management program in 1990. The program was designed to provide a systematic way
of maintaining streets and public ways to ensure that streets and utilities are kept in good repair. Pavement replacement, resurfacing,
patching/crack filling, and sealcoating are the primary ingredients of a successful pavement management program — a program that
ultimately will lead to reduced maintenance and repair costs and "smooth" traveling for city residents.
Since 1990, the city, as indicated by the map, has undertaken the following projects:
Sidewalk replacement. Over the past five years, the city has replaced over 123,000 square feet (about four and one-half miles) of
sidewalk. Some sidewalk work remains but most of the major problem areas have been eliminated.
Downtown street and utility improvement. This project, which began in 1991 and was completed in 1992, was one of the largest
projects in the city's history. Project costs of over $7 million were financed primarily with state aid, local TIF (tax increment financing)
funds and special assessments to benefiting property.
The project substantially improved the appearance of the downtown area and improved public safety.
Southeast area street and utility improvements. This was another significant project, and one that had been before the city council
many times over the past 25-30 years. The homes in the southeast area did not have sanitary sewer available, and because the area is
primarily bedrock, many of the on -site systems were failing. The project included street reconstruction, installation of storm sewer,
sanitary sewer, and, in some cases, water lines. Although the project costs of about $1.7 million were nearly double the normal costs
associated with a street and utility project due to the bedrock conditions, the residents in this area will now have municipal sewer and
water available.
Croixwood area. Over the past four years, the city has reconstructed or overlayed most of the streets in the Croixwood area. The
collective costs of the improvements total over $1.6 million.
Other improvements included
the resurfacing or reconstruction or
portions of Sherburne, Mulberry,
South Sixth and William streets. Pine
Street, from Greeley to County Road
5, also was reconstructed in 1995 at
a cost of $640,000.
During 1997, the city recon-
structed South Second from Willard
to Orleans and a portion of
Burlington, Hancock and Marsh.
In 1998, the city plans to con-
tinue improvements in this area by
reconstructing South First from
Willard to Orleans Street, Willard
from Third to First, Hancock from
First to Sixth Avenue, Burlington
from First to Fifth Avenue, and
Marsh from First to Sixth Avenue.
Cost is estimated at $800,000.
Other projects scheduled for
1998 include resurfacing of Curve
Crest Boulevard in the Industrial
Park area. The city also in consider-
ing construction of a sidewalk or
walking path on the north side of
Curve Crest. Estimated cost of the
project, including a new sidewalk/
walking path, is estimated at
$320,000.
Public hearings on the 1998
projects must be held before the city
can proceed with the improvements.
r Proposed 1998
Completed Projects
A PUBLICAT ON OF THE STILLWATER PUBLIC LIBRARY
VOLUME 2
NUMBER 1
1998
elf/Life
* * *
FREE!
* * *
STILLWATER PUBLIC LIBRARY * 223 NORTH FOURTH STREET * STILLWATER, MN 55082 * 612.439.1675
WHEW! WHAT A YEAR!
We had a wonderful time last year
sharing the library's 100th birthday
celebration with you. Over 400
people attended the Soiree in the
Stacks in November to play party
games, dance in the stacks and the
Margaret Rivers Room, listen to
music, and eat. We want to thank
everyone who contributed to the
evening including Corey Mohan, the
event chair; Mary Ann Sandeen, the
centennial chair; the Soiree
Committee of Marianne Barratt,
Jane Dickinson, Gail Nordstrom,
Peggy Sutherland, and lots of
wonderful volunteers. We appreciate
all those contributing refreshments
including Coupe de Grille, Esteban's,
The Freight House, Kinsel's,
Marlene's Deli, Meister's South Hill
Liquors, MGM Liquors, Orleans,
Tasteful Thymes, Valley Coop, and
Vittorio's.
Thanks to two anonymous birthday
gifts, the library's endowment has
grown by $5,100. Nancy and David
Truax contributed $400 which will
be used to for foreign language
instruction materials.
Lynne Bertalmio, Director
IT'S TAX TIME
The library has some tax forms to
distribute and others to copy. Please
remember that library staff can't give
tax advice!
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday*
HOURS
1 9P.M.
10 A.M. - 9 P.M.
10 A.M. - 9 P.M.
1 - 9P.M.
10 A.M. - 5 P.M.
10 A.M. - 5 P.M.
1 - 5P.M.
* September - May
CHILDREN'S
EVENTS
Preschool Storytimes
An introduction to books and
storytelling for ages 3 to 5
Wed., 10:15 & 11:15 A.M.
Bedtime Storytimes
Thurs., February 19, March 19,
April 16, & May 14
I Love to Read Storytime
Sun., February 8, 2 P.M.
ADULT PROGRAM
Taken by Song
with Ruth MacKenzie, Laura
Caviani, and Brooke Portmann
Wednesdays, February 18, 25,
March 4, 7 - 9:30 P.M.
Choir Room
Stillwater Area High School
Registration required
TAKEN BY SONG
Have you ever noticed a song's power
to sum up your experiences or
feelings? Using songs as diverse as a
blues holler, an Irish ballad, and an
ancient Finnish "spell" song, the
library's music education class Taken
by Song will examine. how three
concepts - evil, self, and animal - are
expressed in song. Led by Brooke
Portmann, participants will have the
opportunity to discuss why these
songs have such an effect on the
listener with two of the Twin Cities
most exciting performers - singer Ruth
MacKenzie and pianist Laura Caviani.
The series will meet in the Choir
Room of the Stillwater Area High
School on Wednesdays, February 18,
25, and March 4, from 7 to 9:30 P.M.
The program is free, but enrollment is
limited. To register, call 439-1675 ext.
13.
This program was developed by the
Abondia Center of Minneapolis and is
funded by a grant from the Minnesota
Humanities Commission.
WHAT'S STILLWATER
READING?
In retirement, former high school
teacher Marilyn Gelhar has just read
Personal History by Katharine Graham,
The Perfect Storm by Sebastian Junger,
and Emotional Intelligence by Daniel
Goleman.
L E T
o u R
M I N
U N
* * * Obeif 3Ltfe * *
GRAPHIC ACCESS TO
THE INTERNET
It is the goal of the library to
provide the greatest access possible
to the information resources of the
Internet. Since last fall, the library
has been preparing to introduce
graphic access to its own catalog and
to the Internet. Much of the work
has been accomplished. Once the
central site software has been
upgraded, graphic searching capacity
will be available for the public,
probably in the spring.
With graphic searching capability of
the Internet, searchers will have
access to visual information in
pictures, charts, and tables. For
many kinds of searches such as art,
travel, science, and weather, this
graphic interface can be all
important. However, all users should
be aware that some of the
information and visual content
available through the Internet may
be controversial, inaccurate, or
dated. As with other library
materials and services, the parents or
legal guardians are responsible for
the information selected or accessed
by children.
INFO -SEEKERS CLASSES
Our first Info -Seekers Class, a
training session on how to get the
most out of the library's electronic
catalog and data bases, filled so
rapidly that we had to disappoint a
number of people who wanted to
take the class. We will be scheduling
additional sessions as soon as we
have graphic access to our catalog.
NEW STAFF & BOARD
We welcome our new Assistant
Director, Carolyn Blocher who
started December 1. In addition to
sharing administrative duties with
the Director, Carolyn will be
selecting adult fiction and books on
tape, developing a volunteer
program, and expanding the library's
adult outreach efforts. You'll also
find her providing reference service
at the Information Desk.
A native of Minneapolis, Carolyn
was previously Branch Librarian at
the Johnsville Branch of the Anoka
County Library, a reference librarian
at the Northtown Library, and
Young Adult Librarian at Crystal
Lake Public Library in Illinois. Her
duties in Crystal Lake also included
responsibility for the library's local
history collection where she
developed an interest in genealogy.
Pat Angleson has been promoted to
part time Circulation Assistant.
Asked why she wanted the job, she
answered that she wanted to be "at
the hub of the community."
Barbara Hansen was also recently
appointed by the City Council to a
three year term on the Board of
Trustees. Barbara is a biologist and a
Research Fellow at the University
of Minnesota.
VOLUNTEER!
Help shorten the winter for a
Stillwater reader - volunteer to
deliver library materials to
homebound individuals or senior
centers. For more information, call
Carolyn Blocher, 439-1675 ext. 25.
EVENTS FOR CHILDREN
In addition to the weekly storytimes
at 10:15 A.M. and 11:15 A.M. on
Wednesdays, mark your calendars for
Bedtime Storytime, co -sponsored by
ECFE. It's an opportunity for children
3 and older to listen to stories in
their pajamas. They occur on
Thursdays, February 19, March 19,
April 16, and May 14, at 7 P.M.
Stuffed animals and blankets are
welcome!
A special I Love to Read Storytime
is scheduled for Sunday, February 8,
at 2 P.M. There will be stories,
puppet shows, and Valentine crafts for
ages 3 and over.
RESOURCES FOR CHILD
CARE PROVIDERS
The Washington County Library has
received a Minnesota Public Library
System Outreach Grant from MELSA
to develop theme -based story kits
designed for child care providers.
SPL Youth Services Librarian Gail
Nordstrom will work with Joey
Halbach at the Washington County
Library to create the kits. Each story
kit will contain five books, a prop
such as a puppet, and a list of
adult/child activities to carry out the
theme of the kit. The kits should be
available for check out by this fall.
This effort is part of MELSA's Start
Smart with Libraries and Reading
initiative. A reading list- for young
children, a brochure with read aloud
tips, stickers, and bookmarks are
being created for all Twin Cities
libraries featuring the art of children's
author/illustrator Barbara Knutson
who spoke to families here last April.
Retirees receive
well wishes
Captain Tim Bell is retiring from pub-
lic service on March 1 after a 31-year ca-
reer with the city of Stillwater Police De-
partment. Bell has helped make the police
department a highly effective law enforce-
ment agency.
Bell also has been a member of the
city's volunteer fire department since 1969
and currently is assistant fire chief. TIM BELL SUE STICKAN
Stillwater's Fire Department has an Insurance Service Organization rating of 3, one of the lowest in the state of Minnesota.
Tim plans to continue to serve as a member of the volunteer Fire Department. And he plans to enjoy his retirement from "full-time"
public service.
Sue Stickan, account clerk, retired from city employment on Jan. 19 after over 19 years of service to the city. Sue was the utilities
billing clerk and receptionist at City Hall. Her warm and friendly personality made her a valuable asset to the city.
Sue as a member of the volunteer fire department.
Ron Anderson retired from the Stillwater Water Department Jan. 30, concluding a 34-year career with the Board of Water Commis-
sioners that began in 1964.
Anderson said he doesn't plan to "'slow down at all" in his retirement. He is active with the Catholic Order of Foresters and the
Minnesota Fraternal Congress, and he plans to work part-time.
The City Council wishes Tim, Sue and Ron the very best.
RON ANDERSON
City has late fee
Residents are reminded that the city
has a penalty for late payment of utility
charges. The penalty is $10 and is imposed
on any utility bill not paid within 10 days
of the end of the applicable billing quarter.
Residents are encouraged to pay their
utility bills in a timely manner to avoid the
late penalties.
City has new
phone numbers
The city has installed a new telephone
system. The new phone numbers are:
Administration/Finance 430-8800
Community Development 430-8820
Building Inspection 430-8825
Engineering/Public Works 430-8830
Police (non -emergency) 351-4900
Fire (non -emergency) 351-4950
Other city numbers are:
Parks 439-4561
Ice Arena 439-1337
City Garage 439-5933
Library 439-1675
City briefs
Keep walks and Collection rules
hydrants snow free
Residents are minded to keep side-
walks shoveled after each snowfall. Also,
this time of year brings a lot of thawing and
freezing, so it is important to keep walks
free of ice, as well as snow, to eliminate
potentially hazardous conditions.
Residents also are asked to keep snow
cleared from around fire hydrants. The fire
department appreciates your cooperation —
it may prove to be a property -saver or even
a life-saver in case of fire in the neighbor-
hood.
And, remember the city's odd/even
parking regulations are in effect — at all
times until April 1.
Appliance
pickup changed
Effective March 4, 1998, pickup of
appliances (stoves, refrigerators, freezers,
washer/dryers, etc.) will take place on
Wednesdays only. Residents must call
United Waste, 429-6766, by 4 p.m. Tues-
days (preferably sooner) to schedule pickup
of such items.
Residents are reminded of the rules and
regulations pertaining to the city's solid
waste collection system.
• Containers must be placed at curbside
by 6 a.m. the morning of scheduled pickup;
handles should be facing the house.
• Do not overstuff containers; lids must
be completely closed. Excess waste that
does not fit in the container should be placed
in special bags that are available for pur-
chase at City Hall, 216 N. Fourth St.; Cub
Foods; Food and Fuel on North Owens
Street; Tom Thumb at County Road 5/Or-
leans Street; and Ace Hardware in the St.
Croix Mall. Bags are $2 each and are sold
in minimum lots of five.
Are you recycling?
Please do!
Sports Facility
is Under
Construction
The City Council awarded bids for
the first phase of the community center
in October of last year. The first phase
includes construction of an ice arena and
a field house that will accommodate a
variety of activities such as soccer, walk-
ing/running track, a golf driving range
and other indoor activities. The complex
located near the Market Place develop-
ment is expected to be completed by
October 1 of this year.
The project would not have been
possible without contributions from lo-
cal foundations, businesses, area govern-
ments, St. Croix Valley Hockey and Soc-
cer associations, and many individuals,
especially those individuals who spent a
considerable amount of their personal
time and energy raising funds and pro-
moting the complex. The contributions
total over $2.5 million. The Stillwater
area is very fortunate to have such a sup-
portive group of people and organiza-
tions. A special thanks to all who were
involved and who contributed to the
project.
Phase 1 PUD
projects
(Continued from page 1)
opments, will be the responsibility of the
developers. This is a departure from past
city practice of constructing and "assess-
ing" costs to the developers and will mini-
mize the financial risk to the city.
The orderly annexation agreement
between the city of Stillwater and Still-
water Township') provides for annexation
and development in four phases.
According to the agreement the
Phase II area could be annexed after Jan.
1, 1999, phase III area after Jan. 1, 2002,
and the remaining area any time after Jan.
1, 2015.
The zoning maps at right, show
the concept plan for Liberty on
Long Lake, above, and
The Legends of Stillwater, below.
_J CR 12 ,...,w
Case's ZAM/98-1, 2, 3, & 4
Proposed
Zoning Districts
Lakeshore
Traditional
Cottage
Village Commercial