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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2020 Summer Newsletter.pdfilKvate THE BIRTHPLACE OF MINNESOTA FROM THE DESK OF THE CITY ADMINISTRATOR .......... As Covid-19 (coronavirus) contin- ues to impact people and their communities, the health and safety of our employees, residents and visitors remain the City's top prior- ity. The City of Stillwater is work- ing to address the community's needs as we all adjust to life during the pandemic. Some items that have occurred recently are, the City implemented a program to assist retail establishments to expand their service areas outdoors. 30+ establishments are now providing food and beverage outdoors in parking spaces or lots to provide more service while maintaining social distancing. City Staff is researching options for a small business assistance Coronavirus grant fund. Although many city facilities have suspended public - facing services, the City of Stillwa- ter is modifying services with the direction that Gov. Tim Walz has provided under "Stay Safe MN". Many services continue to be available online, by phone, email and deliveries to City Hall Police Department vestibule. Members of the public can also join city meet- ings (City Council, Board and Com- mission meetings) virtually through Zoom, watch on Channel 16 or on the City's website from the safety of their own home. Visit the City's website for further infor- mation and updates. PRSTD 216 Fourth Street North U.S. POSTAGE PAID Stillwater MN 55082 Stillwater, MN 55082 www.ci.stillwater.mn.us Permit No. 206 Postal Patron Summer 2020 MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH Is it COVI D-19? COVID-19 symptoms can include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. This may be similar to other illnesses, like the flu and common cold. Many people with COVI D-19 have mild or few symptoms, and some may have no symptoms at all. If you have symptoms of COVI D-19, you should get tested. Talk to your health care provider or visit mn.gov/covidl9. For medical emergencies, such as difficulty breathing, call 911. SYMPTOMS COVID-19 I FLU COLD ALLERGIES uiarrhea wi Chest pain or pressure r Runny nose Sneezing Watery eyes This list is not all-inclusi M1 MINN@SOTA Minnesota Department of Health I health.mn.gov 1 651-201-3920 Contact health.communications@state.mn.us to request an alternate format. 05/28/2020 KEEPING YOUR EYES PEELED FOR OAK DISEASES Most of the oaks native to Minnesota can be found in the parks, along the boulevards, and in the forests and backyards of Stillwater. If you are lucky enough to have an oak tree in your yard, now is the time of year to be on the lookout for these two oak diseases. Oak Wilt: This is a disease that affects white oaks, but it is deadly to northern pine and read oaks. It can spread underground between tree's root systems and kill in a matter of weeks. Look for leaves at the top of the tree that suddenly wilt, turn yellow or brown, and then drop to the ground. Bur Oak Blight: As the name says, this one affects bur oak trees, but it has also been known to affect swamp white oaks. While not as deadly as oak wilt, this disease is capable of killing a perfectly healthy bur oak in a year or two. Look for leaves with browns veins and wedge-shaped dead areas. If you think you spot either of these diseases, contact the city forester at 6S1-430-8836, or your preferred arbor- ist. Oak wilt Minnesota oak leaves Bur oak blight ADOPT A DRAIN Help eliminate pollution from entering our lakes streams and rivers. A new program, Adopt a Drain, asks residents to adopt a drain in their - - neighborhood and to commit to keeping it clear of leaves and other debris to reduce water pollution. All it takes is fifteen minutes, twice a month, for cleaner waterways and healthier communities. Sign up is easy! Go to www.Adopt-a-Drain.org enter your address and choose a drain near your house. Once you've adopted your drain, keep it clean by sweeping and raking up the debris off the drain surface year round. Keep an estimated total of the debris you collect and enter it into your online account so we can gauge the cumulative results of our work. Let friends and neighbors know about your commitment and, if they ask, tell them about small things they can do at home to prevent water pollu- tion. To learn more about the program and adopt a drain in your neigh- borhood, visit www.Adopt-a-Drain.org BIRD CITY 2% I N N E S O T 4 On February 4, 2020, City Council voted to approve Stillwater's pursuit to becoming a Bird City. Becoming a Bird City involves completing a checklist of tasks, which ultimately leads to becoming a healthier City for both birds and people. Becoming a Bird City is one of the steps Stillwater is taking to become a Step 3 Greenstep City in the near future. In addition to being an achievement for Greenstep Cities, it also has numer- ous other benefits for the City; it boosts tourism, fosters both bird and human health, and en hances Stillwater's conservation reputation. For additional information you can visit https:IImn.audubon.org/conservationlbird-city- minnesota or contact Graham Tait at 651-430-8818. DOWNTOWN PARKING The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the Stillwater community in many ways. One of them has been to close or dramatically curtail a large portion of area business. So, in an effort to support commerce, the City Council has ex- tended, at least through the end of July, the current free parking that exists Downtown on week days. Specifically this means that City Lot #1 (next to the St Croix Boat & Packet) and City Lot #2 (next to South Lowell Park) will both be free Mondays -Thursdays. Standard parking rates will apply in these two lots Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. In addition, the City Parking Ramp on 2nd Street will continue to be free all week long through July. MINNESOTA CROSS WALK LAW —KEY ELEMENTS Drivers must stop for crossing pedestrians at marked crosswalks and at all intersections with- out crosswalks or stop lights. Pedestrians must obey traffic signs and signals at all intersec- tions that have them. Vehicles stopped for pedestrians can proceed once the pedestrian has completely crossed the lane in front of the stopped vehicle. Pedestrians must not enter a crosswalk if a vehicle is approaching and it is impossible for the driver to stop. There is no defined distance that a pedestrian must abide by before entering the crosswalk; use common sense. When a vehicle is stopped at an intersection to allow pedestrians to cross the road- way, drivers of other vehicles approaching from the rear must not pass the stopped vehicle. Failure to obey the law is a misdemeanor. A second violation within one year is a gross mis- demeanor. 2020 STREET IMPROVEMENT PROJECT Every year the City of Stillwater conducts a street improvement project. The project includes two major parts. The first part is a full reconstruction of the street which includes removal of the existing section of pavement, existing stone and bituminous curb and gutters, repair any damaged main Sanitary Sewer lines, and replace old galvanized water services. The streets are graded and new curb and gutters and pavement is installed. The second part is a mill and overlay, which is done on streets that have concrete curb and gutter. These streets have the top 1.5 inches of pavement milled and a new layer of pavement installed. Sections of the cracked or damaged sidewalk, curb, and gutter on both type of projects are removed and replaced. Storm sewer inlets are replaced to allow for more storm water collection. The 2020 street improvement project includes the follow- ing streets; Reconstruction North Fourth St. from West Laurel St. to West Wilkins St. Greeley St. North to Myrtle St. Linden St. from Everett St. to Owens St. William St. from Mulberry St. to Linden St. School St. from Third St. to Fourth St. Aspen St. East of Fourth St. Rice St. from Owens St. to William St. Northland Ave. -South of Croixwood Blvd. Mill & Overlay Croixwood Blvd. Northland Ave.-Croixwood Blvd. to Interlachen Drive. Driftwood Ln. Pinehurst St. This year's project is anticipated to start in May and finish in October 2020. ram' Stillwater's Waste Reduction News TEXTILE AND CLOTHING RECYCLE CHANGES With the discontinuation of the Simple Recycling, Stillwater encourages all residents to avoid putting clothing and textiles in the garbage. These items tangle in the machinery at the Recycling and Energy Facility. If it is good enough to give to a friend, and you wish to donate your item, it will be gratefully accepted at one of the convenient thrift stores and drop boxes nearby and many others within a short drive. Goodwill Industries 5980 Krueger Ln in Oak Park Heights 651-439-0097 Valley Outreach 1911 Curve Crest Blvd in Stillwater 651-430-2739 Drop -boxes sponsored by various organizations, are located throughout the community BizRecycling can help multi -unit properties recycle better. Property owners and managers can get BINECYCLINGfree consultations with recycling experts and receive grants to improve the way they manage recy- %IM, M%SK . MORi SAVWCPs cling and organics collection in their buildings. Learn more and apply BizRecycling.com. How it works: Connect with them: Call 651-266-1199 or submit a contact us form at BizRecycling.com Free Consultation: BizRecycling develops your customized recycling plan Apply for Money: BizRecycling grants make it easier for your business to reduce waste Recycle Better: Ongoing support ensures your business recycling success WASHINGTON COUNTY ENVIRONMENTAL CENTER 4039 Cottage Grove Drive, Woodbury, MN 55129 651-275-7475 Drive thru lane is open during normal business hours: Tuesday: 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Thursday: 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Friday: 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Saturday: 8 a.m.-2 p.m. The Free Product Room Moves Outdoors! Open during normal business hours, weather per- mitting. (Rain cancellations will be posted on web - site.) •Social distance with one person per station. •Please wear a face covering. •Be patient, there is more than enough product. •Be courteous to others. •You must sign a waiver form available near the front door. Change in Service under COVID-19 To ensure the health and safety of staff and customers, we are making the following changes to our drop-off procedures. These new procedures will result in long- er wait times. Thank you for your patience. COVID-19 Drop-off Procedures •Please stay in your vehicle. No exceptions. •Waste must be in your trunk, rear of SUV, or cargo bed. Do not put waste in the passenger area. If we cannot un- load your waste without significant entry into cabin of the vehicle you will be asked to drive to the front park- ing lot and reorganize the items before returning to the line. • Keep items you do not want us to take separate from items you are dropping off. •Please provide your zip code to the attendant through a cracked window. No driver's license is required. •Please wear a face covering during drop-off. Staff are wearing face coverings for your protection. •Any items left behind are items not accepted. Call 651- 275-7475 for questions New! Food Scraps (organics) drop-off is now self - serve. The dumpsters will be located in the front parking lot and available for self -serve drop-off during normal op- erating hours. Please stay at least 6 feet away from other customers during drop-off. Replacement bags are provid- ed. To ensure there are enough bags for everyone, please only take the number of bags you drop off. RECYCLING DURING COVID-19 As many Americans spend more time at home, we are changing the way we purchase and use goods and food. At the same time, there are some supply chain disruptions in the food and manufacturing sectors. There is the potential for households to generate more waste than they did before, but there is also an opportunity to focus on waste prevention, increase your reuse and recycling efforts, and use food more efficiently. Now is a great time to focus on waste prevention where possible, and when recycling, keep the materials as clean and dry as possible. Recycling Tips and Reminders During and After COVID-19 • Keep plastic bags, masks, wipes, and latex gloves out of the recycling bin. If someone in your home has COVID-19, treat your recyclables as trash. • Don't put your recyclables in plastic bags. Put recycling and trash in the appropriate bins, not next to them. Leaving materials next to bins increases risks to sanitation workers and can attract pests. • If you are spring cleaning, consider setting aside things (batteries, paints, weed killer, plastic bags, clothing, other donations, etc.) to donate, recycle or dispose of later when it's safe to bring them to a drop off location or collection event. • Make the most of the food in your fridge and pantry with recipes you find online or find a local food bank and learn how you can support them. • Return grass clippings back onto your lawn instead of bagging them and learn how to compost yard waste and food scraps in your backyard. • Thank grocery store and restaurant staff; farmers; and grocery and food delivery workers — they are providing a vital service during this time! STORAGE OF TRASH AND RECYCLING CONTAINERS On February 4th the City Council adopt- ed a revision to the City Code's chapter on solid waste and recycling. Since at least the 1980's, the City Code has in- cluded language that required trash and recycling containers to be stored out of sight from streets. During those dec- ades that seemingly straightforward regulation was more or less sufficient but, recently the City has received a wave of complaints about residents that have discovered clever ways to get around the intent of the regulation. For example, parking a car in the front yard and putting the garbage can behind the car. Or, putting the garbage can in the front yard and covering it with a blue tarp. Sure enough, the garbage can itself cannot be seen from the street. you probably agree that the intent of the regulation was not really met. Right? But, Consequently the revision is an attempt to provide more guidance on what is meant by "out of sight". To that end, the following now applies to trash and recycling containers in Stillwater: Store trash and recycling containers indoors in the garage or an accessory building. If indoor storage is not possible, then: Place them behind the front building line of your house. (See the graphic above for clarification). And, Screen them. Examples of acceptable screening include privacy fencing, vegetation that when mature screens as effec- tively as privacy fencing, wing walls. CHESTNUT STREET PLAZA We have begun designing the Chestnut Street Pla- za! Thanks to everyone who shared their design ideas and comments over the course of the last month. The visioning sessions and community survey were very i valuable. If you would like to follow the progress of the design work, please visit the project webpage on the City's website. Simply enter "Chestnut Street Pla- za" in the search box in the upper right hand corner of Q the website (https: [/www.ci.stillwater.mn.usj). If ; you'd like to share comments or ideas for the project, l please email them to Bill Turnblad at bturnblad@ci.stillwater.mn.us. Our goal is to have a concept design developed by the middle of August. Then we will hold an open house on the con- cept sometime later in August. So, please check the website in August for details on the time and venue for that open house. Since the plaza will be a central feature of Downtown Stillwater, we would really appreciate your participation in the open house. PRESERVING STILLWATER'S HISTORIC CHARACTER Known as The Birthplace of Minnesota because of our community's association with Minne- sota's statehood, many of our older neighborhoods and the structures in them were devel- oped before 1900. The historic character of these neighborhoods is important to the com- munity as that character is a driving factor of what makes Stillwater so unique and such a special place to live. The City has a goal to help preserve the historic community character of these neighborhoods. However, the preservation of community character is not an easy feat. Inappropriate alterations to sites and structures within these neighborhoods can start to change the overall historic feeling. Over time, cumulative changes can reduce or eliminate the historic character, having an irreversible effect on the overall nature of these neighbor- hoods. This is why the City has created the Neighborhood Conservation District, an area encompassing nearly 1/3 of Stillwater, to review the design of new homes, ensuring they do not detract from their historic neighborhood. City -led efforts can only do so much for our historic neighborhoods. Stillwater's historic character depends on the actions of individual property owners and the changes they make to their personal property. This is why the Stillwater Heritage Preservation Commission has developed Rehabilitating a Historic Home in Stillwater to help guide appropriate re- pairs and additions to Stillwater's oldest residential structures. These, in addition to other online maintenance resources, provide homeowners and their contractors with educational resources focusing on making appropriate changes to these old homes. Visit www.ci.stillwater.mn.us/preservationeducation for more information. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS The Community Development Department is working on several projects and would like to keep you updated on their progress. They are currently working on: North Aiple Park Plan- It is the intent of the City to restore much of the property to natural conditions and provide passive recreational uses. Chestnut Street Pedestrian Plaza- The 2040 Comp Plan envisions the conversion of Chestnut Street between Main Street and the Lift Bridge concourse to a non -motorized civic plaza. Heritage Preservation Commission ordinance revisions- It is the intent of the City to update its preservation ordi- nances for a clean, clear, well -communicated Heritage Preservation Program. Check out the City website to find out more information on each of these projects or sign up to join our email distribu- tion list for updates on Downtown Construction Projects and Parks and Recreation Commission updates. For specific questions regarding these and future projects contact the Community Development Department at 651-430-8820. VOTING SAFELY DURING COVID-19 Primary Election - August 11th General Election - November 3rd The COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic has many people rightly worried about going out to vote. We want you to participate in the political process and stay safe and healthy. Here are ways to do both. The safest way to vote is to vote by mail (also called Absentee Voting) With the flexibility of voting absentee in today's changing world, voters can choose to receive ballots by mail and vote from home. Applications may be found online at the Secretary of State website at www.mnvotes.org or be requested by mail by call- ing Washington County Elections at 651-430-6175. Remember, you cannot drop off the voted ballot at your precinct on Election Day. 2. If you can't vote by mail, try to vote early (also called In -person Absentee Voting) Early voting allows you to cast your vote in person when there are fewer crowds and lines. Vote at the Washington County Government Center at 14949 62nd St N in Stillwater, Monday - Friday, 8AM-4:30PM or August 8, 8AM - 3PM or August 10, 8AM - 5PM. You do not need an excuse to vote early. 3. If you vote on Election Day, follow COVID-19 hygienic procedures -Try to vote at a time of day when your pre- cinct is less likely to be crowded. This is often early morning or mid -afternoon. Maintain a six-foot distance from other voters and poll workers, including if you're waiting in line. Wash your hands for 20 seconds before and after voting. Use hand-sanitizer if you can't wash your hands right away. Wear a mask, cover your coughs and sneezes and avoid touching your face with unwashed hands. Visit www.mnvotes.org for further information on where to vote, how to register to vote, and to preview the ballot. nil2020 CENSUS Representation Census data determines the number of seats each state has in the U.S. House of Repre- sentatives, as well as the size of voting dis- tricts for state and local governments. CENSUS - WHY IT'S IMPORTANT The data that will be collected by the 2020 Census are criti- cal for states, counties, and communities. They will shape political representation, funding of government programs, the flow of business and commerce, and the planning and delivery of services to local communities. As the examples below show, the Census has far-reaching effects, holding rel- evance to many facets of our everyday life in Minnesota. Funding Census data guides ap- proximately $589 billion in federal spending allo- cated to local communi- ties each year, includ- ing more than $15 billion distributed to Minnesota communities. Planning Census data helps de- cision -makers plan roads, schools, hospi- tals, senior centers, and emergency ser- vices to best serve changing populations. Business Census data assists businesses in locat- ing factories and stores, recruiting employees, and conducting market research. BOARD OF WATER COMMISSIONERS J WAYS TO CONSERVE WATER IN SUMMER There are many benefits to getting Rain barrels (also known as water recycling barrels) for your backyard. Rainwater is highly oxygenated and great for plants and soil. Garden and lawn water- ing accounts for 40% of residential water use during the summer, having a rain barrel can save you over 1,000 gallons. It may not be a lot of money, but it sure is a lot of water. Install water saving showerheads. Summer is hot, and we find ourselves taking more than 2 showers a day to help us cool down from the extreme heat. A 10-min shower uses 42 gallons, by switching to a water saving showerhead; you can save at least 10 gallons per shower. Saving 300 gal- lons/person/month equates to saving 3,600 gallons/person/year; or $50/ person/year. Summer is known for the intense heat, which leads to an increase in evapora- tion and major water loss. The best way to conserve water during the summer time is to apply a thick layer of mulch to your garden to slow down the evapora- tion rate due to high temperature. Mulch also is great at suppressing unwanted weeds in your garden. WELL TESTING FEE WAVER To: All City/Township Administrators, Mayors, and Public Works Directors From: Washington County Public Health and Environment RE: Well Testing Fee Waiver Due to localized flooding occurring throughout the county, Washington County Department of Public Health and Environment has temporarily waived the fees associated with coliform bacteria testing for: private wells that have re- cently flooded, or are impacted by recent flooding. If a resident would like to test an impacted well, or has questions about a threatened well, they should call 651-430-6655 to request a testing kit. Currently, due to COVID-19, the county is accepting Water Test samples at the Government Center (in Stillwa- ter) by appointment only. • To make an appointment, please call 651-430-6655. • Appointments are scheduled every Tuesday between 8:15 - 10:30 am.. BUILDING OFFICIAL OF THE YEAR, CINDY SHILTS was presented with this award on February 4th from the Association of Minnesota Building Officials. She is the sec- ond female recipient. Cindy started her career at the City of Stillwater in 1994 and became the Building Official in 2000. Her continued hard work, loyal- ty and dedication to achieve a safer built community has made her a deserving winner. Cindy has guided this growing commu- nity for the past 25 years with exceptional professionalism and profound commitment to the code enforcement profession. Well done! HAPPY RETIREMENT KELLIE! We would like to congratulate Kellie Knowles on her recent retirement in January. She was with the Board of Water Com- missioners for 22 years as their Administrative Assistant. Wishing you happiness in your retirement years. CONGRATULATIONS TO BUZZ, STILLWATER'S K-9 ON HIS RETIREMENT! Buzz has retired from the City of Stillwater's Police Department. He was successfully certified eight consecutive years in USPCA Patrol Dog 1 as well as the USPCA Narcotics De- tention. He completed over 1,100 hours of =:E, service training. He conducted 99 demonstrations and educational meetings AIL for over 7,000 citizens. His entire pro- gram was funded by donations, grants, and drug forfeiture proceeds. He was turned over to his handler, Investigator David Wulfing in January 2020. LICENSED TO DROOL Water NEW HIRES: Jenna Schmid Engineering/Public Works Tanya Batchelor Finance Brian Tennessen Police Department Taylor Stocker Natural Resources Travis Zappa Police Department Chase Friendt Public Works FIVE YEARS: Jesse Pereboom IT Tom McCarty City Administrator Brian Jahnke Public Works TEN YEARS: Nancy Manos Administration Jason Belisle Police Department David Wulfing Police Department FIFTEEN YEARS: Chad Jansen Fire Department Chyrisse LeMoine Police Department Meredith Nadeau Public Works TWENTY YEARS: Nick Chaves Public Works Paula McHugh Library Brian Bruchu Police Department Sandra Vetch Police Department RETIREMENT: Michael Kuehn Public Works (19 years of Service) Even though a dog can't reach the gas and brake pedals, they still needs a license. Getting a license for your dog may not seem like a big deal - in fact, many dog owners neglect to license their dogs - but it is not something you should forget about. The fact is, it's the law. In addition to identifying your dog in case he gets lost, it helps to prevent the spread of rabies. Not only can rabies affect your dog, but it can be transmit- ted to humans as well. The City of Stillwater has recently updated the City's dog license program to offer licenses concurrent with your dog's rabies vaccination schedule. Dog licenses are available for a 3-year pe- riod or for lifetime of the dog with price breaks if dog is sterilized or microchipped. Owners must have a current rabies certificate when applying for a license. For your convenience, you can get the application form on the City's website and pay online. A PUBLICATION OF THE STILLWATER PUBLIC LIBRARY VOLUME 24 H E L F IF E SUMMER 2020 224 N. THIRD ST. * STILLWATER, MN 55o82 * 651.275.4338 * STILLWATERLIBRARY.ORG STILLWATER PUBLIC LIBRA SERVING YOU V WAY 2LIBRARY.C)RC WE'RE HERE FOR YOU Although the library doors are temporarily closed, we are providing new and expanded resources to help you stay safe, stay healthy and stay connected. Use our curbside services to pick up books and other library materials. Discover new authors and great reads with personalized Book Bundles. Go digital with our virtual programs, e-materials and online re- sources. Share, stream or surf with Wi-Fi hotspots. We are working hard to serve you in these contactless ways, but we really miss opening our doors to you each day and interacting with you in person. The Library Board of Trustees met on July 14, and after a lengthy discussion, decided that the library building will continue to remain closed to the public. The Board is focused on balancing access to library materials and resources with the health and safety of staff and patrons. Staff is actively working to- wards a plan for public visits. This next phase of reopening will likely be a walkthrough mod- el with short visits and limited occupancy, where you may briefly stop in to use computers, browse the collection, and check out and pick up items. This approach will allow patrons broader access to resources while limiting potential exposure to the novel coronavirus. In preparation for reopening, staff is implementing safety measures, such as installing protec- tive barriers at service points, obtaining adequate cleaning supplies and sanitizers, estab- lishing disinfecting protocols, and developing traffic patterns and building use guidelines. The Board will evaluate progress on safety measures, review updated COVID-19 recommen- dations, and discuss reopening timeframes at their August 4 meeting. Thank you for your patience and understanding as we navigate the pandemic and find new ways to serve you. We look forward to seeing your familiar faces as soon as we can. MOBILE HOTSPOTS ARE AT THE LIBRARY! Do you need a wireless Internet connection? Try a mobile hotspot — now available for check out with your library card. Hotspots provide 4G Inter- net service within the Sprint network. A hotspot can connect up to to devices and may be checked out for 7 days. Place one on hold through the library catalog or by calling 651.275.4338. Hotspots are made possible with the support of the Stillwater Public Library Foundation. QUESTIONS ABOUT SERVICES WHILE LIBRARY IS CLOSED When can I return my books? Materials may be returned to the library's exterior book drop. The book drop is located just outside the parking ramp exit gate on Third Street I have a question about my account, materials or resources. Can library staff help me? Library staff is available by phone at 651•275.4338 and email at splcirc@ci.stillwater.mn.us on Mondays through Saturdays from io:oo AM-2:00 PM for assis- tance. Feel free to leave a mes- sage, and we will get back to you during our regularly sched- uled hours. Can I borrow books? Curbside pick-up of library mate- rials is available. Use the catalog to place holds on specific titles or complete an online book bun- dle request to have library staff select materials for you based on genres. When your items are ready, schedule a curbside ap- pointment. Pick-up service is available from io:oo AM-2:00 PM on Tuesday, Wednesdays and Saturdays and lo:oo AM-6:30 PM on Thursdays. Can I get a library card? Washington County residents are welcome to register for a library card by applying online at washcolib.org/495/Library-Card- Application. Upon verification, you'll get a library card number and pin to access library materi- als and resources. Can I donate my used books to the library? The library is not able to accept book donations at this time and does not anticipate being able to accept donations throughout the summer. How do I stay up-to-date on library services? The library is continually eval- uating services and trying to provide more online re- sources to the community. Visit stillwaterlibrary.org for the most current infor- mation. To receive updates in your inbox, sign up for our e- newsletter at the bottom of the home page. VOLUME 24 SHELFLIFE SUMMER 2020 SERVING YOU IN NEW WAYS CURBSIDE PICK -Ur Do you need library materials? Contactless curbside pick-up is available at the library. Reserve materials online and pick up books, magazines, movies, music and more to enjoy at home. e 6 BOOK BUNDLES Miss browsing at the library? You can now request Book Bundles! Tell us your genre (such as adult historical fiction or children's picture books), and we'll select materials for you. You may be introduced to a new author or discover an intriguing story! LIFELONG LEARNING Learning never ends at the library. Research your ancestors, learn a new language, find small engine repair information or take an online class. All of these, and more, are available to you for free. BE NOVEL -BRANCH OUT WITH OUR ADULT SUMMER READING PROGRAM The theme of the 202o adult summer reading program is Be Novel — Branch Out. Branching out can mean different things to different peo- ple. Maybe it is reading a genre that you haven't yet delved into, or a switch from fiction to nonfiction. The summer is wide-open to every- one's approach to reading! As in past years, we will have weekly drawings for gift cards. All you need to do is read a book (any book), and complete an entry at stillwaterlibrary.org/2020/05/be-novel- branch-out/. BRANCH OUT WITH: Make & Take Crafts: Throughout the summer, we are offering peri- odic make and take crafts with supplies and instructions. Check out our website or call to learn more. Have fun exploring your DIY side! Seed Art, Saturday, July 25 and Saturday, August i, lo:oo AM Register to attend our online, adult classes covering all of the details you need to begin a seed art project. Supplies are provided. Connect Through Books: Monday, August io, 6:30 PM Are you reading something that you'd be interested in sharing? We invite you to join us for a Zoom book club to join virtual hands over our reading. Visit stillwaterlibrary.org/2020/04/serving you -in -new -ways for more information. VIRTUAL PROGRAMS Stay connected with our virtual library programs. Join us for nature programs, online storytimes, adult and children's art classes, book clubs, and teen DIY. E-MATERIALS 00ON Keep informed and entertained with free eBooks, eAudiobooks and eMagazines. Need help getting started? How-to videos and help guides are available on our web - site. uel OODOOer l d lase �f .jau to cWtIv�,r ex?Woh and so�ri Me our 5,,MMer Read�rig Progra'�t J Summer is the perfect time for kids and teens to build brain power, strengthen language skills and increase knowledge through reading. You can register online at stillwaterbayportlibra ry.bean stack.org or download the Beanstack app to earn virtual badges and win real - world prizes. Track time and titles read, submit book reviews, and complete challenge activities. Earn to online badges to receive a book reward starting August lo. A paper version of the summer reading log is also available. Supplement your reading with fun summer activities' Explore our lineup of virtual programs and do-at- home/do-outside activities for youth of all ages . Stay tuned to our website, Facebook page and Instagram for updates and activities posted all summer long. Stillwater Human Rights Commission and Award IVStillwater Human In 1995, the City of Stillwater established a Human Rights Commission. The Rights Commission purpose of the Human Rights Commission is to aid and advise the City Council in ensuring for all citizens of the City equal opportunity in those areas pro- Harmony- Dignity• Respect tected by law and in other related concerns. The Commission...... • Works to recognize and prevent discrimination and inequities of daily life in the community. • Develop programs of formal and informal education to the City Council and community at large. These may in- clude topics such as: studies and surveys of community practices, affirmative action, compliance with state equal opportunity requirements, alleviation of community tension, and the creation of a climate that eliminates barriers to equal opportunity. • Provide leadership and act cooperatively with other human rights commissions including the League of Minne- sota Human Rights Commission. • Serve as an advisory body to the City Council regarding the Minnesota Human Rights Act. Since its inception, Stillwater's Human Rights Commission has hosted educational opportunities for the community covering subjects such as: dementia -friendly city, disabilities, equity within the school district, LGBTQ youth, juve- nile sex trafficking, homelessness and hosts Martin Luther King Breakfasts. The Commission also awards the Human Rights Award to one outstanding individual who resides in Stillwater. This award recognizes worthy individuals who have shown fair and equal treatment for everyone. The most recent awardee, honored at the July 21st City Council meeting, is Mark Trumper. As a teacher in North Minneapolis that enrolled many immigrant children, Mark established a program called "Pedal Power" to teach children the joy of bike riding introducing them to the surrounding neighborhood and building self-esteem and empowerment. Mark takes the students out for weekly rides where they learn science, art, history and more from their biking adven- tures. Education on bike repair and maintenance is also provided. The program provides empowerment to a group of children who experience a variety of disparities as immigrant children. At this time, the Stillwater Human Rights Commission acknowledges that there is work to be done in our communi- ty. The Commission applauds all individuals who stand up for fairness, equality, inclusion, and diversity. Stillwater's population is changing. Our streets host tourists from near and far to visit our lovely town. Events and education are being planned that will enhance our community's learning. This Commission calls on Stillwater citizens to treat all people with dignity and respect. Let our commitment to each other stand as a beacon of fairness and solidarity to all Minnesotans and all Americans. m DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RIGHTS D 0 0 0 0 iscri " ination H e 1p 1i"n e 1=833=454=0148 l 1 ova ter The Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting has been awarded to the City of Finance Stillwater by Government Finance Officers Association of the United State and Canada (GFOA) for its comprehensive annual financial report (CAFR). The Certificate of Achieve- ment is the highest form of recognition in the area of gov- ernmental accounting and financial reporting and its at- tainment represents a significant accomplishment by a STILLWATER CITY HALL 6S1-430-8800 City Hall hours are: 8 am to 4:30 pm, Monday thru Friday, except Holidays. City Hall will be closed Labor Day, September 7th. ...................................................................... MINNESOTA STATUTE 471.701 requires "A city or county with a population of more than 15,000 must annually notify its resi- dents of the positions and base salaries of its three highest -paid employees." For the City of Stillwater, title and salaries are: John T McCarty, City Administrator $153,847.91, John Gannaway, Police Chief $132,315.54 and Shawn Sanders, Public Works Director $130,202.61 Date: 01/04/2020