SCENE The mission of Scott County is to advance safe, healthy, and livable Vol. 29, No. 5 communities through citizen-focused services. October/November 2017
Highway project open house Review Highway 13-21 project alternatives at Oct. 10 open house Page 9
Veterans’ luncheon planned Scott County employeees will host their annual “Thank a Veteran” lunch Nov. 7 Page 14 Bill Jaffa, Executive Director of the Scott County Community Development Agency (CDA), and the CDA Board and staff work to provide affordable housing and economic development throughout the County. One of their recent projects was The Henderson, an apartment for senior citizens 55 and older in Shakopee. Health care available Uninsured have several options Page 5 CDA helps people, businesses find homes in Scott County Businesses or low and moderate income families who There are five members on theCDA Board -- one appoint- are hoping to locate a home in Scott County may find the ed by the Scott County Board from each Commissioner Scott County Community Development Agency (CDA) a District. Board Commissioners serve five-year terms, and valuable resource. can be reappointed by the County Board. They meet the The mission of its Board and staff is “to strenghthen second Tuesday of each month. Protecting water the communities of Scott County by providing afford- As an autonomous agency, the CDA Board sets its own able housing opportunities... promoting economic devel- priorities and budgets; but as an unelected body, its levy New buffer law takes effect opment, and fostering coordination of public and private must be approved by the Scott County Board. “We’re like Nov. 1. SWCD offers landowners resources.” first cousins with the County,” explained Bill Jaffa, the assistance. The CDA was created by an act of the Legislature in CDA Executive Director since 1985, who currently over- 1974. A year later, the Scott County Board designated the sees a staff of 24 people and a budget of $14.6 million from Pages 16 new agency as its representative to meet affordable hous- all sources. The local property tax levy comprises about ing needs in the County. This allowed the CDA to access one-fourth of the CDA budget. It is listed separately from federal and state funds and programs to achieve its goals. CDA to page 8 Volunteer PAID 55379
PRSRT STD PRSRT drivers are U.S. POSTAGE PERMIT No. 155 PERMIT SHAKOPEE, MN community heroes Scott County is seeking addition- al volunteer drivers to support the transportation needs of those in our community. Volunteer drivers often commit to sharing their time to help others and find a meaningful way to give back within their community. They help to bridge the gap of much- needed transportation services, such ECRWSS as driving those without a vehicle to their medical appointments, commu- nity events, or other commitments. A sense of being needed is a common POSTAL CUSTOMER POSTAL reason why volunteer drivers feel tre- mendous pride in what they can of- fer to those in need. Doug Anquist, A stroll -- or skate -- through the park Volunteer Driver for Scott County, Fall colors are peaking so don’t miss your chance to stroll, skate, peddle, had this to say about his experience: paddle, or sit and enjoy the sights at the local parks. Last year, in-line “What I like the most is helping the skaters enjoyed the colorful trail through Cleary Lake Regional Park on
Scott County Government Center West Avenue 200 Fourth Shakopee, MN 55379-1220 VOLUNTEER DRIVERS to page 13 a sunny afternoon. (File photo) Page 2 Scott County SCENE October/November 2017 Find Scott County’s home page at www.scottcountymn.gov
Top of the SCENE Commissioners’ Corner By Gary Shelton County Board Meetings through December 2017 Scott County Administrator October 10 – no meeting October 17 – County Board meeting October 24 – no meeting October 31 – no meeting Pace of change, level of November 7 – County Board meeting information is accelerating November 14 – no meeting In 1965, Gordon Moore, co-founder of Intel, predicted that the pace of digital November 21 – County Board meeting technology would nearly double each year with the exponential growth of the num- November 28 – County Board planning workshop ber of transistors per integrated circuit. So far, Moore’s forecast has held, and is ex- pected to continue for several decades; yet in some respects, his theory’s prediction December 5 – County Board meeting (afternoon meeting) has been exceeded by even faster development of many technologies. December 5 -- Proposed Property Tax meeting (6 p.m.) Whether we like it or not, change is a way of life and we (individually and col- December 7 -- Joint meeting with Three Rivers Park Board (12 noon) lectively) need to continue to learn and learn to adjust. Change is never easy, and December 12 – no meeting often sneaks up on us. Books about how to cope with and manage change abound. December 19 – County Board meeting However, there continues to be something a little insane about the idea that reason- December 26 -- no meeting able people need only to have things explained to them and they will change their way of feeling and behaving. Change just does not occur that way. The Scott County Board meets at 9 a.m. on Tuesdays (except if indicated above) Anyone who thinks that change is avoidable is fooling themselves; even a cur- at the Government Center in Shakopee. Visit the Scott County website at www. sory look around makes it obvious that not only are changes happening every day, scottcountymn.gov to view streaming video of Board meetings, Board agendas, but that the pace of change is accelerating at an amazing rate. It is with good cause and minutes of previous meetings. The Board proceedings may also be rebroadcast that the term “information overload” was coined as humankind’s knowledge has on your local government access cable channels; refer to your weekly newspapers increased within our generation almost beyond imagination. Here are just a few for broadcast dates and times. For further information about County Board meet- mind-boggling facts on this: ings, contact the County Administration office at (952) 496-8100. • Eighty percent of all the scientists who have ever lived are alive right Citizen Committee Vacancies now. The Scott County Board of Commissioners is looking for interested citizens to • Every minute, these scientists add 2,000 pages to humankind’s serve on the following advisory committees. Members of advisory committees are knowledge. The material they produce every 24 hours would take one provided with a per diem and mileage reimbursement for attendance at meetings. person five years to read. If you have any questions or are interested in serving on one of these committees, • Every day, the equivalent of over 300 million pages of text is sent over contact Deb Brazil at (952) 496-8601 or via e-mail at [email protected]. For the Internet. more information regarding a specific committee, visit the Scott County website • In 1970, when the Apollo 13 spacecraft was lost in space, it took NASA at www.scottcountymn.gov; click on “Your County Government,” then “Boards, computers 90 minutes to work out a way to bring it back. However, today Commissions, and Committees.” Please note that some of the vacancies have there are wristwatches that wield more computing ability than some incumbents who are eligible to be reappointed for another term. 1970s mainframes, and most cars today have more “intelligence” than the original lunar lander. All Hazards Committee (1 vacancy). Currently, there is one at-large vacancy on this committee. The All Hazards Committee was formed after the events of September 11, Yes, the world is changing at an ever-increasing clip, and there are studies that 2001 in order to bring various agencies and organizations throughout Scott County together have concluded that human knowledge is currently doubling approximately every to discuss and plan for all types of emergency and/or disaster incidents and events. The seven years. It is amazing to consider that by the time a child born today graduates identified goals of the committee are that all stakeholders will understand theroles, from college, the knowledge in the world will be eight times greater than it is today responsibilities, limitations, and capabilities of each and all response agencies allowing -- and that by the time that child is fifty years old, 97 percent of everything known them to assist with emergency preparedness risk assessments, preparedness planning in the world will have been discovered during their lifetime. activities, disaster response after-action reporting, and proposal of training and exercises. For the past 40 or 50 years, Americans have lived by a series of unofficial tenets: The Committee meets quarterly on the third Monday of the month from 3 – 4:30 p.m. A good education guarantees a good job, hard work will bring prosperity, and 40 Board of Adjustment and Planning Advisory Commission (7 vacancies). Currently, years of 40 hour-a-week work earns a comfortable retirement. While that may have there are seven vacancies, one in each Commissioner District and two at-large vacancies. been true in the past, today I would say that is not necessarily accurate. Our lives The purpose of the Planning Advisory Commission is to hold public hearings on amendments are being shaken to their very core by technological change, with the current tech- to the Comprehensive Land Use Plan and Zoning Ordinance Amendments; review all nological (industrial) revolution transforming economies as never before. This un- applications for conditional use permits, interim use permits, and plans for subdivision precedented pace of change -- combined with the radical changes being unleashed of land; and to make recommendations for approval or denial to the County Board for the by new digital, robotic, and 3D technologies -- unincorporated area of the County (all eleven townships). The Board of Adjustment holds is having a major impact on what we produce, public hearings and makes decisions on variance requests. These Boards meet the second the nature of jobs, and indeed how we earn a Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. living. While this global economic transforma- tion is proceeding differently dependent upon Community Corrections Advisory Board (3 vacancies). There are currently three where someone lives, no country, no state, no vacancies on this Board, one each in Commissioner Districts 1, 2, and 4. This Board is responsible for making recommendations to the Scott County Board of Commissioners as city, no market will be spared from the tidal they relate to community corrections. The Board is comprised of law enforcement staff, wave of change. And nothing in all this change corrections staff, judges, attorneys, social services personnel, educators, and citizens. There will be more concrete than the potential impact are five citizen members, one from each Commissioner District. Advisory Board members on what is arguably most fundamental to our are appointed to serve two-year terms, and are eligible to serve three terms. Persons of sense of economic worth: gainful employment. color and from various ethnic groups are particularly encouraged to apply. This Board For centuries, automation and technical ad- meets every other month on the fourth Thursday at 7:30 a.m. vancements have replaced human effort. While good for productivity and overall growth, it is Community Development Agency (CDA) (1 vacancy). Currently, there is a vacancy disruptive for those workers who find their jobs redundant or unnecessary. And on this Board in Commissioner District 5. The mission of the CDA is to strengthen the in the coming years, this will hold true for more than repetitive factory jobs – communities of Scott County by providing affordable housing opportunities to low- and the advancing computing and robotics technologies now threaten many jobs that moderate-income families, promoting economic development, and fostering coordination of public and private resources. The CDA meets on the second Tuesday of each month at seemed “safe,” such as accountants, taxi and truck drivers (even delivery people), 4 p.m. and paralegals. Given the speed and breadth of the changes now being unleashed, it is clear that new technologies will dramatically change the nature of work across Extension Committee (2 vacancies). Currently, there are two vacancies in Commissioner all industries and occupations. Districts 4 and 5. In partnership with the University of Minnesota, the Extension Committee It is becoming more and more obvious that the good jobs of the future will not assists in formulating programs, recommending budgets, and selecting and evaluating the only be dependent upon getting a good education, but focusing that education in the Extension staff. The University of Minnesota Extension discovers science-based solutions, right areas – science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). But as we strive delivers practical education, and engages Minnesotans to build a better future. Together, to prepare the next generation for the “real world” that exists (and emerges) around we create a better world for today and tomorrow by keeping our food safe and affordable; them, we need to remember to provide them with less tangible skills: preparing today’s youth to thrive in a complex world; ensuring Minnesota communities are strong; improving our environment; and helping families make better decisions. The 1. How to work and succeed as part of a team; Extension Committee meets four times per year (Wednesday evenings, 5:15 p.m.). For more 2. To think critically and be curious about the things they encounter each day; information on Extension, go to www.extension.umn.edu or contact Tammy McCulloch, Extension Regional Director, at [email protected] or (612) 735-6161. 3. To see problems from different angles and formulate their own solutions; 4. The ability not just to participate, but to lead others; Human Services Resource Council (9 vacancies). The Resource Council consists of three 5. To be comfortable with and willing to adapt to the changes around them; representatives from each Commissioner District. Currently, there are nine vacancies on the 6. Effective oral and written communication – despite advances in technology, council, with vacancies in all the Commissioner Districts. Members serve two-year terms, these skills never diminish in importance; and are eligible to serve three terms. The Resource Council participates in development 7. How to access and analyze information – in short, how to discern the difference of the Strategic Plan for Health and Human Services; makes recommendations concerning between factual information and “factual-sounding” opinions. the annual budget of Health and Human Services; makes recommendations related to human services programs, needs, priorities, goals, and objectives to the County Board; While today’s technical and digital revolution is creating significant transition and receives, reviews, and comments on special interest group and community at-large in the types of jobs that youth need to prepare for, we need to not lose sight of the input regarding Human Services plans, programs, services, and performance. Professional human skills that have been essential to success throughout the ages. COMMITTEE VACANCIES to next page Find Scott County’s home page at www.scottcountymn.gov October/November 2017 Scott County SCENE Page 3 Getting ready for 2020 Census begins with addresses This fall, governments around the tinuous and uniform addressing system. country – including Scott County – will Each house, building, business, or other start gearing up for the 2020 Census. occupied structure -- as well as any oth- While the actual count is still more than er structure that requires utility service two years away, the process of ensuring -- are assigned a separate number. No the accuracy of each residential address building permits or utility services shall in the County is underway as part of be granted until the owner has procured the 2020 Local Update of Census Ad- the official number for the premises. dresses (LUCA) operation. LUCA is a The database will be instrumental in voluntary, once-a-decade opportunity helping the County and cities verify the for local governments to add, correct, or U.S. Census Bureau’s address list for delete addresses on the lists and maps Scott County. The Census Bureau relies used to conduct the decennial census. on a complete and accurate address list The ability for local staff to verify an to reach every living quarter and asso- accurate list of all site addresses in Scott ciated population for inclusion in the County – farm, home or business – was 2020 Census. An accurate and com- greatly improved in the past year with plete Census helps governments plan the development of a new countywide for future infrastructure, programming, Address System of Record. This online and service needs. This winter will be database is the authoritative, one-stop the only opportunity governments have location for city and township address to review and improve the Census Bu- information in the County. The database reau’s residential address list before the can be accessed and updated by local Scott County’s new online mapping application (SG3) shows address points 2020 Census. addressing staff at any time, from any for every property in the County. A tool in the mapping application can capture place, using a web application. mailable addresses within a defined area and convert them into mailing labels. The creation of this database took a timely manner,” he added. cessing information with the telephone couple of years for County, city, tribal, Given the rapid pace of development companies, post office, emergency ser- and summer intern staff to move, cre- and number of new lots platted across vices and other government offices; and ate, or verify site address information the County in recent years, it has be- the continued public education of the for every property in the area. In the come more efficient for local staff to Countywide 911 system. Without the old system, staff could only assign one assign address information on the web information generated from all these address per parcel (which was a prob- application, which is integrated and sources, the 911 dispatch system would lem for apartments and strip malls with shared with other software systems in not have the necessary data to operate ef- several addresses on a parcel). The new “real time,” said Allen. The timeliness ficiently and ensure the fastest response Road to the 2020 Census system can store multiple addresses for of accurate address information is of to the citizens and visitors of our com- The goal of the 2020 Census is to one property. Neighboring Dakota and particular importance to the County’s munity in times of emergency. Accurate count everyone once, only once, and in Carver Counties also use the same web 911 dispatch system, which is integrated and timely address information directly the right place. The Census Bureau is application to enter and store address with the System of Record. Allen said contributes to the safety and well-being using expert resources and experience information. The payoff for this collab- there are about 53,000 addresses (or ad- of the responders and the County’s resi- in and out of the government to make orative effort to build a single-site ad- dress points) stored in the database. dents and visitors. the 2020 Census a success. As Census dress database is starting to materialize. Scott County is the addressing au- Scott County, by ordinance, main- operations and testing move forward, “There are real benefits of having thority for the unincorporated areas of tains a uniform system of addressing the Census Bureau will continue to all addressing data in one database that the County (each city is the addressing and road naming throughout all of the improve its innovations using mobile can be used by any local jurisdiction,” authority for its own jurisdiction). As an townships. The County also works with and geospatial technology, administra- said Jason Allen, Scott County address- addressing authority, the County is re- the seven cities to ensure all areas of the tive records, and self-response via the ing coordinator. “We can ensure con- sponsible for maintaining addresses of County have unique, valid addresses internet. sistency in naming standards and con- properties in the 11 townships; main- and road names. All addresses are as- Want to learn more? Visit https:// ventions, and make sure addresses are taining the road inventory; providing signed by standardized procedures set www.census.gov/newsroom/press- assigned, updated, or changed in a more information for mapping updates; pro- forth by the County to ensure a con- kits/2017/luca-begins.html.
Committee vacancies from page 2 providers and consumers of Human Services programs are particularly encouraged to apply. The committee meets Personnel Board of Appeals (1 vacancy). Currently, quarterly, on the third Monday at 6 p.m. there is one at-large vacancy on this Board. The Personnel Board of Appeals is responsible for making findings and Library Board of Advisors (1 vacancy). There is currently reporting to the County Board upon the filing of an appeal one vacancy on this Board in Commissioner 2. The Library by an applicant, employee, or appointing authority under Board of Advisors consists of one representative from each certain circumstances. There are three at-large citizen Commissioner District. Members serve three-year terms, representatives on this Board. Members are appointed for and are eligible to serve three consecutive terms. The three-year terms, and there are no term limits. The Board Board participates in the formation of the Library Strategic meets as needed. Plan that is used to focus limited resources on library services that meet the needs of our customers; evaluates Scott Watershed Management Organization (WMO) current and future services; and guides the creation of a Planning Commission (2 vacancies). Currently, there are budget that reflects identified customer needs. The Board vacancies representing the Shakopee Basin and the Sand recommends operating policies for the public library system Creek Watershed. The Scott WMO Watershed Planning and, by statute, is responsible for the content of the library Commission reviews and makes recommendations on collection. The Board currently meets on the third Thursday the Comprehensive Water Resource Management Plan, of each month at 5:30 p.m. Each year, one meeting is held in budgets, and program priorities; the implementation of the each of the seven branch libraries and the Scott County Law Comprehensive Water Resource Management Plan; and Library and four meetings are held at Library Administration associated program goals and projects. The commission (Shakopee). consists of seven members representing specific watershed areas. This Board meets on the fourth Monday of each An “unusual” award Mental Health Local Advisory Council (4 vacancies). month at 4 p.m. Unusual objects are often brought to the Scott Currently, there are four at-large vacancies on this Council. County Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Anyone with an interest in mental health services may apply. Commissioner Districts: Facility, but one odd item recently won a national Consumers or family members of consumers of mental • District 1, Commissioner Barbara Weckman health services, adults who received mental health services award for the most unusual item received at a HHW Brekke: The Cities of Belle Plaine, Jordan collection service in the past year. A set of chick as children or adolescents, and representatives of Scott (precincts 1 and 2), New Prague (precinct 2), and embryos at various stages of egg development -- County’s minority population are particularly encouraged to Shakopee (precinct 5); and Belle Plaine, Blakeley, preserved in six jars with a hazardous substance -- apply. The Council meets every other month on the fourth Helena, Jackson, Louisville, St. Lawrence, and was collected by staff at the HHW facility. The 2017 Tuesday at 4 p.m. Sand Creek Townships. “Golden Bung Award” was given to Scott County • District 2, Commissioner Tom Wolf: The Cities Parks Advisory Commission (7 vacancies). Currently, of Elko New Market and Prior Lake (precincts by the North American Hazardous Materials there are seven vacancies on this Committee, one in each 2 and 3); and Cedar Lake, Credit River, New Management Association. It was presented to the Commissioner District and two at-large positions. The Market, and Spring Lake Townships. County Board by Environmental Health staff at the purpose of the Parks Advisory Commission is to provide • District 3, Commissioner Michael Beard: The Sept. 19 Board meeting. Commissioner Tom Wolf, leadership and direction to staff and elected officials in City of Shakopee, precincts 1-4, 6-8, 12A, and whose district includes the HHW Facility, was the area of parks, trails, and open space planning and 12B. handed the award and one of the jars containing implementation. Members advise the County Board on • District 4, Commissioner Dave Beer: The Cities a chick embryo. Residents are reminded to bring program priorities and policies; planning for parks, trails, of Prior Lake (precincts 1, 4, 5, 6A, 6B, and 7) their household hazardous waste to the HHW and open space; and review and recommend proposed and Shakopee (precincts 9, 10, 11 and 13). Facility instead of disposing of it in the garbage annual work plans. Commission members represent the • District 5, Commissioner Jon Ulrich: The City or dumping it on the ground or in the drain. Most citizens of Scott County and, as such, serve as community of Savage. items are accepted without charge. For more ambassadors. The Parks Advisory Commission typically information, visit http://www.scottcountymn.gov/ meets the first Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. HHW. Page 4 Scott County SCENE October/November 2017 Find Scott County’s home page at www.scottcountymn.gov Environmental SCENE By Becky Groshens Water Resources Technician
Proper yard waste disposal keeps environment healthy, may save money The autumn season is full of happy memories for me. Every time my dad would walk out of our garage with a rake and wheelbarrow, I would race outside to help him. I knew that if I helped him rake all of the oak, walnut, and maple leaves blan- keting our yard, he would let me jump in a gigantic leaf pile before we disposed of them! Sometimes it was a neighborhood event, and my two best friends would join High pressure cleaning of watercraft and trailers helps remove invasive in. Everyone would rake the leaves, pick up the branches, jump in those leaf piles, species that may be clinging to them. and then we would have hot chocolate or roast marshmallows. For me then, it was bonding time with my father and friends. Now I see those fall afternoons from a Avoid transporting invasive different perspective: We were helping our environment and community while we worked and played, and we did not realize it at all. Even in small towns like the one I grew up in, there are structures built to con- species on docks, boats tain and transport rainwater. These storm water systems can consist of drains in When removing boats, docks, lifts, If you fi nd any aquatic invasive roads, underground pipes, culverts, drainage-ways, and other constructs. This sys- or other water-related equipment from species attached to a watercraft or asso- tem can easily get clogged with debris from our lawns or garbage, and cause a host lakes and rivers this fall, please remem- ciated equipment (dock, boat lift, swim of problems, including fl ooding. The underground pipes can carry yard debris ber to carefully inspect everything to raft, et cetera), to be in compliance with and pollutants (collectively referred to as runoff) from our streets directly to local make sure there are no aquatic inva- the law you need to complete the fol- waterbodies, like the creek which meandered just two properties down from my sive species (AIS) such as zebra mus- lowing before moving it to another childhood home (Beaver Creek). Once the runoff reaches a water body, nutrients sels, Eurasian watermilfoil, or Curlyleaf waterbody: (like phosphorus) leach from grass clippings or other debris and can build up in the pondweed attached. Please report the aquatic invasive water. The next spring, the result of this can range from excessive algal blooms that Aquatic invasive species cost the species to the DNR. Contact any of the make recreation dangerous, to fi sh and wildlife kills. United States billions of dollars each St. Paul Aquatic Invasive Species Spe- The smaller the waterbody, the more susceptible it is to pollution. Remember year, harm native ecosystems, and de- cialists listed on http://www.dnr.state. that small creek that ran by my childhood home? Twenty-four years ago, I pulled crease recreational value. They are eas- mn.us/invasives/ais/contacts.html. a really weird-looking fi sh from my favorite spot on Beaver Creek. My nine-year- ily spread from waterbody to waterbody If you are a shoreline owner, you old self was so proud of this catch; I fi lled a fi ve-gallon bucket full of water and car- on boats and equipment or fl oating in may place the equipment or watercraft ried that fi sh to my house to show my dad. Turns out, that fi sh was a baby Northern bilge or bait water. There are currently on the adjacent shoreline without a Pike, but I doubt that young predatory fi sh could survive there now. Once full of no effective ways to treat zebra mussels permit. You will need to follow the rest minnows and crayfi sh, last summer it stank from garbage and pollution. If only my once they have established in a lake; of the instructions below if you want to Iowan neighbors knew of the same resources and followed the same practices I see preventing their spread remains the best transport it anywhere. in Minnesota, maybe kids could still pull fi sh from Beaver Creek. management solution. Scott County has Clean your equipment thoroughly What resources and practices, you might be asking? How about raking those two lakes infested with zebra mussels: at the site of removal from the lake. leaves (and grass clippings) and making a few special memories with your children Lower and Upper Prior Lakes. And the (See tips above.) in the process? As I have written above, this simple action can prevent pollution Minnesota River was just listed for both Before you transport it on a public from reaching our lakes and rivers through run-off. Because how we dispose of the zebra mussels and invasive carp. road, let it sit clean and out of the water leaves and other yard debris can make a huge impact on our environment’s health, Protect Scott County’s lakes up to fi ve days. and ours. Here are a couple low- or no-cost, environmentally-friendly ways you Clean, Drain, and Dry your water- Before you transport it on public can dispose of your organic yard waste: craft before you leave the lake’s wa- roads, read and complete the appropri- • You could bag leaves and grass clippings and either have a waste hauler ter access. Remove any visible mud, ate permits. You may need to fi ll out pick them up, or drop them off at a community composting facility like aquatic plants, animals, and debris from General Permit form 2015-003 for in- the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community Organics Recycling Facil- all equipment that entered the water- fested watercrafts, or General Permit ity. (See article about SMSC Organics Recycling on page 13.) Please view body (e.g., the anchor and other boating, form 2015-004 for infested equipment. Scott County’s webpage on Organics for more information on where to take wading, and fi shing equipment). Drain You must have these forms with you at your yard waste and/or who can pick it up: https://www.scottcountymn. the ballast tanks, portable bait contain- all times while in transport. These and gov/1294/Organics. ers, bilges, livewells, and baitwells. other aquatic invasive species autho- • You could compost them, and your table scraps, right in your backyard. Lastly, remove the drain plug if you are rization forms can be found at DNR’s Did you know that your table scraps will go straight to the landfi ll if you transporting your watercraft. website at http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/ throw them in the garbage? The landfi ll is a place that should contain only If possible, the Department of Natu- invasives/ais_transport.html. items that cannot be recycled or reused. Why? Landfi lls are expensive ral Resources recommends that upon After transport to the destination, the to build, and putting compostable materials leaving a waterbody you spray your watercraft or equipment must not be in them takes up valuable space. Compost- watercraft with high-pressure water, placed in another water body until a ing ensures that scrap food and yard wastes and/or rinse with very hot water (120°F minimum of 21 days have passed. (like grass clippings or leaves) are reused for at least two minutes or 140°F for at Visit the DNR’s Aquatic Invasive as mulch for gardens or roadside projects. least 10 seconds). Species webpages to fi nd out more Ecocycle’s website has a lot of great tips for Two Lake Service Providers in Scott about the invasive species in Minneso- how to compost or how to ask your home- County offer high pressure cleaning of ta, where they are located, and how you owner’s association to collect organic waste can help prevent their spread at http:// Compost organic waste. watercraft: One Choice Detailing in (like your table scraps): http://www.ecocy- Lakeville (in Credit River Township) www.dnr.state.mn.us/invasives/pre- cle.org/. and Bricks Boatworks in Shakopee. ventspread.html. Now you might be thinking, but how do I dispose of the way more hazardous materials used in yard maintenance like leftover pesticides or fertilizers? Scott County has you covered: you can take them to the Household Hazardous Waste Cleaning garage for winter? (HHW) Facility near Jordan. They can help you dispose of many items including household chemicals, yard and garden chemicals, automotive chemicals, items that contain mercury (like thermometers and CFL light bulbs), and broken lawn mow- Remove hazardous items ers or appliances—like those that polluted my favorite childhood fi shing pool. And Fall is here, and it’s time to make toxic reactions… real dangers to home- often, our Environmental Health staff can dispose of these items at little or no cost room for that convertible, the lawn- owners and to fi re and rescue personnel. to you. (It might cost you more money to throw them in the garbage!) Learn more mowers, and all the other summer tools Second, keep everything orga- about what the HHW will take and the costs by visiting http://www.scottcountymn. and vehicles. But what to do with the nized. Put up some labelled shelves. gov/hhw or call us at (952) 496-8787. paint, chemicals, fertilizers, oil, and the Have a shelf for pesticides, another for There are many more options to help our water and land resources this fall with- one weird bottle which you once knew cleaning chemicals, and another for in your community or online. Small choices, like deciding where to take your yard what was in it? In fact, there is so much paint. Just keep the gasoline away from waste, can make a huge difference for our environment and health because there stuff in the garage you didn’t notice combustible material, and the cleaning are so many of us making those same choices every day. From a fi sher and outdoor that strange spill in the corner. Whoa – chemicals may need to be separated enthusiast, thank you for helping us keep Scott County safe, healthy, and livable there’s a bottle of muriatic acid which from each other. by choosing environmentally-friendly ways to dispose of your yard waste this fall. has tipped and has etched away at the Lastly, properly dispose of all un- garage fl oor. wanted products. The Scott County Does this scenario sound familiar? Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Editorial Policy It’s probably a very common occur- facility will take the majority of prod- The purpose of this publication is to provide the public with informa- rence, but also very preventable. Some ucts found in the garage and dispose of simple procedures can keep everyone them correctly: please visit http://www. tion about Scott County Government and the opportunities it offers its safe and the garage organized. scottcountymn.gov/594/What-We-Ac- citizens. If you have questions or suggestions, contact Lisa Kohner, First, keep only what you need. cept. Realizing and correcting the po- Public Affairs Coordinator, at (952) 496-8780 or [email protected]. Don’t stockpile household chemicals, tential danger in the garage is just one mn.us or Claire Robling, Communications and Legislative Coordinator, yard products, paint, trash, and gasoline. small step in making Scott County safe, at (952) 496-8597 or [email protected]. These items can potentially cause fi res, healthy, and livable. Find Scott County’s home page at www.scottcountygov.mn,gov October/November 2017 Scott County SCENE Page 5
Air quality inside and Healthy SCENE outside affects health By Lisa Brodsky Although you may not be aware of it, Public Health Director air quality -- either good or bad -- affects you every moment of every day. Unless you have a way to test the air every sec- ond, you have no way of knowing how Health care for the uninsured clean it really is. The problem is air pol- lution: One or more gases or particles in available at several sites in County the air that are harmful to the health of Even under the Affordable Care Act, there are still people in Scott County who people, animals, plants, and the environ- are un- or under-insured. In Scott County, it is estimated that at least eight percent ment. The effects of air pollution range of residents are uninsured. To meet this need, there are three safety net health care from a slight irritation of the lungs, to providers and one safety net dental provider in Scott County: more serious breathing problems such Scott County Public Health has an immunization clinic for un- and under-in- as asthma and bronchitis. According to son Elementary School. This monitor sured children and adults on selected Monday afternoons from 2 – 5 p.m. at the the World Health Organization, air pol- measures ozone and particulate matter Workforce Development Center (Suite B231, 792 Canterbury Road South) in Sha- lution causes an estimated three million concentrations in the suburban northern kopee. All required and recommended vaccines are available. Call (952) 496-8555 people to die prematurely each year. part of the County, and provides a good for an appointment. The problem with air pollution is that it picture of the area’s air quality. Public Health Nurses are also available Tuesday and Thursday mornings from is mostly invisible and hard to detect its Although not as widely talked about 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the Workforce Development Center, without an appoint- harmful effects immediately. as outdoor (or ambient) air, the air in- ment. Services provided at this clinic include immunizations, Mantoux skin tests One of the best things you can do to side your house is more important to and readings, health education, blood pressure screenings, blood glucose and cho- protect yourself is keep a close watch on your health. The reason for this is that lesterol screenings, and assistance connecting with local resources. the Minnesota Pollution Control Agen- we spend so much time indoors. If there Additionally, in a partnership with Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux (SMSC), cy or (EPA)’s current air quality index is a pollutant like smoke outside, it usu- Public Health provides a free mobile health clinic for those that are un- or under- readings: https://www.pca.state.mn.us/ ally gets dispersed easily and is diluted. insured. This partnership enables clinic services to be brought directly to those in air/current-air-quality-index. Another It doesn’t linger around and cause nega- need by traveling to various locations within Scott County. Scott County Public place to find excellent air quality infor- tive health effects. Indoors, that same Health provides the following medical and nursing services: • mation is the EPA’s AirNow site that amount of smoke can linger for a long Health screenings for chronic disease and short-term illness. gives both forecasted as well as cur- time and impact the health of everyone • Health information and assistance with connecting to ongoing health care. rent conditions for the Air Quality In- inside. • Screening and information related to Social Determinants of Health. dex (AQI). Visit Airnow.gov and search So what can you do to help indoor air • Assistance connecting with local resources. your zip code at the top of the page. quality? During nicer days, especially This measurement is broken up into with a breeze, open your windows and The Mobile Clinic operates twice a month at rotating locations. These loca- six different categories: Good, Moder- let fresh air into your house. Airing out tions include the Savage Library, the Slavic Baptist Church in Shakopee, and the ate, Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups, the house alleviates the stuffiness of a Workforce Development Center in Shakopee. The Mobile Clinic schedule can be Unhealthy, Very Unhealthy, and Haz- tightly closed up home, and vents con- found at the Scott County website at http://scottcountymn.gov/, and search “Public ardous. Last year in the Twin Cities, taminants that have built up. You can Health Clinics.” there were 258 days (or 70 percent of also get an air purifier, and let its inter- the year) that were classified as Good nal filter help trap dust, mildew, -aller River Valley Nursing Center, a non-profit organization, also provides free care in the AQI scale, and only four days (or gens, and odor-causing bacteria. to the uninsured. Services focus on individualized health-related services with ac- one percent of the year) that was classi- Another helpful tip is to keep up on cess to community resources. Through nursing assessments, health education, re- fied as Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups. regular cleaning such as vacuuming, ferrals and follow-up care, families are assisted to reach their health goals. The There was one day that was classified dusting, and disinfecting. Changing air center is staffed by a public health nurse and a bi-lingual Spanish interpreter/com- Unhealthy, which was the worst for the filters in your furnace, as well as getting munity health worker. The center is open on Monday afternoons from 1 – 6 p.m. at year. Most of Minnesota had a classi- the air ducts cleaned if it’s been a while, the CAP agency in Shakopee at 752 Canterbury Road (call 952-496-8669 to leave a fication of Good for over 300 days last message), and on Tuesday afternoons from 1 – 5 p.m. at the East Creek Family Cen- also help to trap harmful particles that th year, so as a whole Minnesota’s air qual- can be inhaled. Lastly, installing a car- ter, 303 East 6 Street, Chaska (call 952-567-8205 to leave a message). In addition, ity is excellent! bon monoxide detector is important to the center also does outreach with health screening and education, and coordination In Scott County, there is a Minnesota make sure that this odorless and color- of influenza vaccination. Pollution Control Agency air monitor- less gas doesn’t build up to dangerous ing site located in Shakopee. This site levels. St. Mary’s Health Clinic, a ministry of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, is located on the roof of the B.F. Pear- is in Shakopee twice weekly and provides examinations done by a physician, lab tests, x-rays, diagnostic tests, and most medications. The clinic operates through the services of volunteer physicians, nurses, receptionists, interpreters, and drivers who are dedicated to providing medically necessary health care. St. Mary’s Health Clinic is open to people of all faiths and ethnic backgrounds. For an appointment and to determine eligibility, call (651) 287-7777. St. Mary’s Health Clinic is sup- ported by grants, donations, and volunteers.
Children’s Dental Services pro- vides preventative care and restor- ative care for children ages 1 to 26, and pregnant women. They accept all medical assistance plans and of- fer a sliding fee scale payment plan if income eligible. Care is provided at the Shakopee Community Action Program (CAP) in Shakopee, and Apple Valley. Call (612) 746-1530 for an appointment.
While there is some overlap in the services provided, there are many days without any services at all -- causing those in need to forego care, drive into the metro area for a suitable clinic, or visit the local emergency room. Expanding ser- vices to additional days, increas- ing the level of medically complex care, and expanding dental services are needs that Scott County Health Care System Collaborative is ac- tively investigating. A community conversation led by Marnita’s Table is scheduled for Oct. 24 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Shakopee Community Center to provide an opportunity for community input regarding this issue. Page 6 Scott County SCENE October/November 2017 Find Scott County’s home page at www.scottcountymn.gov
Legal SCENE Choose Not to Use By Ron Hocevar would like to say Scott County Attorney THANK YOU! Tee it Up for the Task Force funds used to PLEASE SUPPORT OUR GENEROUS SPONSORS help youth “Choose Not to Use” TOURNAMENT SPONSORS Woodland Pizza Micelle Karr Contributions of $1,500 or more MISCELLANEOUS Mid-America Festivals On Sept. 8, the 11th Annual Tee it up for the Task Force golf fundraiser was held Shakopee Mdewakanton DONORS Minnesota Landscape at Stonebrooke Golf Club in Shakopee on behalf of the Scott County Drug Preven- Sioux Community Abdallah Chocolates Arboretum tion Task Force and ChooseNottoUse (CNTU). The fundraiser was a great success, Scott County Attorney’s Offi ce Action Packed Paintball Minnesota Historical Society with beautiful weather to boot. We had a shotgun start at 8 a.m. with a little chill in Scott County Sheriff’s Offi ce Applebee’s Minnesota Timberwolves the air, but by the third hole, jackets were off. It turned out to be a sunny, hot day Allina Arnie’s Friendly Folks Club Minnesota Twins Next Chapter Technology Artisan Bistro Minnesota Vikings full of laughs and the occasional good golf shot by myself (I normally have zero Jeff Belzers Artistry at Bloomington Mitch and Ashley Patterson good golf shots). We maxed out on golfers for the fi rst time (144) last year, and we Minnesota Valley Electric Center for the Arts Mr. Pig Stuff did so again this year. Unlike last year, where we reached our max golfers a few Atticus & Attalia Munkabeans days before the tournament, this year we maxed out in mid-July. PLATINUM SPONSORS – Awesome Blossoms & Gifts Mustard Seed I want to thank all the golfers and volunteers who make this event a huge suc- Contribution of $1,250 Bar Harbor Mystic Lake Casino & Hotel cess. Additionally, Stonebrooke has hosted this event from its inception, and they (Monetary or goods provided) Bill’s Toggery Natalie Tieben Belle Plaine Police Department Bloomington Center for the Oak Ridge Conference Center couldn’t be more accommodat- Dave Menden Arts O’Brien Dental ing and helpful in making this Dean Opatz Bruegger’s Bagels O’Brien’s Public House event the success it is. They Jim and Mary Ann Taglia Buck Hill Old Log Theater also serve a fantastic buffet Jordan Police Department Buffalo Tap Olive Moon lunch for all the golfers and Linda and Gary Shelton Canterbury Park Pablo’s volunteers following the event. Mary Roles/Mike Fleischhacker Casey’s General Store Papa Murphy’s Midwest Monitoring Charlie’s on Prior Pearl Salon We also couldn’t make this My Pillow Cherry Berry Pekarna’s happen without all the spon- New Prague Police Department Chipotle Percell’s Hair Team sors, including our tournament Prior Lake Police Department Chuck and Don’s Prior Lake-Savage Schools sponsors: the Mdewakanton Savage Police Department Cities Edge Qdoba Sioux Community, Allina, Shakopee Lions Club Clancy’s R.F. Moehler Jewelers Scott County Attorney’s Of- Stonebrooke Golf Club Coborns – Belle Plaine Real Gem Jewelers Culvers – Savage Renaissance Festival fi ce, Scott County Sheriff’s GOLD SPONSORS – Culvers – Shakopee Riverside Liquor Offi ce, Minnesota Valley Elec- A friendly young deer at Stonebrooke Golf Contribution of $1,000 Cuzzy’s Rohde Pottery Farm tric Cooperative, Next Chapter (Monetary or goods provided) Dairy Queen – Shakopee Ron’s Mechanical Course greeted some of the golfers at the Bryan Rock Products, Inc. Dangerfi eld’s Sailer’s Greenhouse Technology, and Jeff Belzers. annual Tee It Up for the Task Force fundraiser. The citizens of Scott County Shakopee Police Department Doherty’s Sam’s Club The deer was fondly called the event mascot. Sterling Bank Dragon Café Sapporo should also be very proud that Dunn Bros. Savage Science Museum of MN every one of our law enforcement agencies in the County contribute to this fund- SILVER SPONSORS – Edelweiss Bakery Sever’s Fall Festival raiser and are very much involved in the activities of CNTU. Please go to http:// Contribution of $750 Eileen’s Cookies Shakopee Bakery choosenottouse.org/Sponsors.html to see a list of all our sponsors, most of which (Monetary or goods provided) El Toro Shakopee Chevrolet are local Scott County businesses. Please support these businesses and let them Carver County Attorney’s Offi ce Emma Krumbee’s Siriouthay know when you go into their establishment that you appreciate their support of Ken Jarcho Insurance Agency Fishtale Bar and Grill Southwest Guns and Ammo CNTU. Fong’s Restaurant, Bar and Stems and Vines HOLE SPONSORS – Event Center St. Paul Saints We had over 375 raffl e items that were donated and a hole-in-one contest (which Contribution of $300 Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Subway – Dean Lakes I didn’t even make the green on). You can also visit our Facebook page and share (Monetary or goods provided) Steakburgers Subway – Old Carriage Ct. and like at https://www.facebook.com/choosenottouse.org/ and also see photos Access Networks Fresh Thyme Sweet Nautical Boutique from the event. Bail Bonds Doctor Gayle Wermerskirchen Taco Loco The Task Force is a collaborative effort of many County agencies to combat il- Cabela’s Guthrie Theater Take of the Town Liquor legal activities primarily of our youth. The Tee it Up fundraiser is the main source Climb Theatre Hampton Inn –Shakopee Target Dave Beer Home Depot Teresa’s of funding for our anti-drug initiative, Choose Not to Use. Our primary mission is Edward Jones/Tammy Laurent Humble Pie The Pearl Salon to identify, educate, prevent, and control illegal drug use and other hazardous con- Jaspers, Moriarty & Wetherille Iris Valley The Pointe duct and reduce the impact of these activities on the community. While our primary Kevin, Laura and Luna Burkart Janice and Robert Patterson The Station focus is on educating and keeping our youth off of illegal substances, we will also Lawrence Auctioneering Jordan Fire Department The Vintage Gypsy be sponsoring and putting on programs related to other conduct. Minnesota’s Largest Candy Josh Doepke T.J. Hooligans The primary reason for going with the name “Choose Not to Use” was so we Store J.R. Gesswein Tokyo Sushi PATCO 6 Ken and Ruth Jarcho Tony Tieben were not focused on solely one illegal drug or one illegal activity. For instance, we Patrick J. Ciliberto Kim Mayerhofer Tractor and Supply plan on taking on other initiatives and sponsoring activities and programs, such as Patrick, Kathy and Sammi Kowalski’s Market Turtle’s Bar and Grill choose not to use your cell phone for sending illegal photos; choose not to use your Welter Kwik Trip Valley Eye Clinic car for “Nerf wars;” and choose not to use your cell phone for texting while driving, Prior Lake Rotary Kyoto Sushi Valley Sports to name a few. Rahr Corporation Lady A’s Cupcakes Viking Liquor Barrel If you would like to be involved in this great fund raiser next year, as a golfer, S.M. Hentges & Sons, Inc. Laker’s Store Von Hanson’s Seasons Realty Lau’s Bakery Wampach’s Restaurant volunteer, or sponsor, contact Crime and Drug Prevention Coordinator Kathy Wel- The Fun Squad Lezlie Vermillion Warners Stellian ter at (952) 239-6885 or [email protected]. Please come support the next Tee The Lion’s Tap Lucas Patten Wild Ruffl e it Up for the Task Force golf outing – Sept. 7, 2018. If you want to golf – register The UPS Store Mary J. Patterson Zuppa Cucina early! Walter’s Lawn and Landscape Mall of America Follow me on Facebook @C.A.Hocevar and on Twitter @rhocevar1 Coordinators: Ron Hocevar, Scott County Attorney; Luke Hennen, Scott County Sheriff; Dave Beer, Scott County Commissioner; Kathy Welter, Crime and Drug Prevention Coordinator. Public shooting offered at SCALE training facility With deer hunting rapidly approach- ing, public shooting hours are again being offered at the SCALE Regional Training Facility in rural Jordan. Range use will be monitored by trained range safety personnel during the public shooting times.
Public rifl e and shotgun slug shoot- ing dates and times are: 2017 was a bigger, better Scott County Fair! Saturday, Oct. 21: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Hunters can sight in their guns at the The numbers are in, and the attendance was near record-setting at the 2017 Sunday, Oct. 29: 12 noon – 4 p.m. SCALE training facility. Scott County Fair! The weather was great and the crowds were huge at many The fee to use the facility range is Training-Facility for additional informa- of the new events. The schedules and stages were jammed packed with fun $15 for 20 minutes of shooting time. tion. For questions or more information, events and things for Fairgoers to see and do (and eat!). Mark your calendar for July 25-29, 2018 to be sure you don’t miss next year’s Scott County Fair. Reservations are not required. Check contact Mike Briese, Facility Manager, Above, deputies raised funds for the Southern Valley Alliance for Battered the RTF website at www.scottcoun- at (952) 496-8948 or via email at mbri- Women by operating a dunk tank at the Fair. tymn.gov/833/Regional-Public-Safety- [email protected]. Find Scott County’s home page at www.scottcountymn.gov October/November 2017 Scott County SCENE Page 7
Secured credit cards Safety SCENE may help build credit By Luke Hennen Are you being denied credit while Scott County Sheriff trying to build your credit? It can feel unfair that it seems so hard to build cred- it and assets. If you are having trouble Mental health crisis training aids qualifying for credit, consider getting a secured credit card. This is a sure-fire deputies when responding to calls way to build credit and get on the road The Scott County Sheriff’s Office is always trying to improve our level of ser- to financial prosperity. Below are tips on vice with our citizens. One area we’ve been putting a lot of focus into lately is com- how to attain a secured credit card. How can you be successful with a secured credit card? municating with the public. In some ways, this is easy to see: we have a new web- Think of building credit with a se- site (http://www.scottcountymn.gov/1507/Scott-County-Sheriffs-Office), we’ve What is a secured credit card? been giving more behind the scenes looks into our operations on our Facebook This is a type of credit card that is cured credit card as a game. The rules and Twitter pages, and we’ve been trying to do a lot more community engagement backed by a savings account used as col- of the game: throughout the year. lateral on the credit available with the • Never carry a balance month to Our focus on improved communications is also taking place behind the scenes. card. Money is deposited and held in the month One example is our Crisis Intervention Training. Last year, we announced that a account backing the card. The limit will • Pay it on time (or early) by donation had been made to the Sheriff’s Office that allowed us to send members of be based on both your previous credit setting up auto payment from our staff to Crisis Intervention Training. Crisis Intervention Training is a 40-hour history and the amount deposited in the your checking or savings class taught by the Mental Health Crisis Response Institute, designed to help first account. The limit as a percent of the account responders detect potential mental health issues and learn how to effectively com- deposit tends to range between 50 and • Do not charge anything over 30 municate with individuals with these issues. 100 percent. percent of the credit limit Our office is very proud to report that we are quickly moving towards our goal of having all of our staff receive this important training. To date, 70 percent of our How do you find a secured credit When will you see your score patrol deputies, 40 percent of our dispatchers, and 18 percent of our corrections card? increase? officers have learned the important skills this training helps provide. As our em- First, check with your bank or credit Usually, it will take six months to a ployees return from this training, the comments I’ve heard show how valuable and union to find out if the institution offers year for your score to rise, as long as effective they believe this Crisis Intervention Training has been. a secured credit card. If they do, inquire there isn’t any new negative informa- One of our Deputies recently told me the Crisis Intervention Training gave him about the terms of the card. Things like tion reported. skills he was able to put to use on his very next work day. Throughout the training, interest, which credit bureaus it reports he found out he hadn’t been communicating as effectively with this affected popu- to, how often it is reported to the credit Then what? lation, and this training gave him new skills he was able use to help deescalate an bureaus, and fee schedules are important Once your credit score has increased incident and offer immediate help to the citizen. The Deputy was amazed that the questions to ask. If your bank or credit enough, you will be able to qualify for training he got in the class was able to be put to use immediately, and his new skills union doesn’t offer a secured credit unsecured credit (i.e., credit that is not had a clear impact on the resolution of the incident. card, you can search for one at www. backed by your own investment). Another Deputy said the training helped give her the skills to help detect specific bankrate.com. If you have questions, please feel mental health issues, which allowed her to tailor her response to the incident in a You will need to have a chunk of free to contact Shawna Faith Thomp- manner that would be more effective for the citizen. Our Deputy stated the tech- money saved to deposit as the collat- son, Financial Capability Educator, U niques she learned were a “new tool in my toolbox” that will hopefully help build eral for the card. This is normally $200 of Minnesota Extension at shawnaft@ trust between our responders and citizens with mental health issues. The training or higher. This dollar amount is also umn.edu or (952) 492-5383. should provide a long-term impact for those with mental health issues, as they often References: Investopia.com known as your credit limit. call for services multiple times in their lives. Learning to communicate effectively in a manner that builds a trusting relationship between the responders and the citi- zens can not only make the initial call easier on both parties, it can make future calls easier and more efficient as well. Attention property owners Both Deputies told me one of the most impressive aspects of the training was the professional actors who were playing the roles of individuals dealing with a mental Have you filed your health crisis. The Deputies have been to a number of calls in their careers, and said these actors were playing roles that reminded them of calls they had been on in the past -- some of which were long, difficult incidents. The actors gave the Deputies homestead notice? a second chance to approach these types of incidents in a different way that eventu- Your homestead status will affect ally resolved the issue in a much less stressful manner. the amount of property tax you pay in The Deputies also believe the training will help with citizens who are trans- 2018, and it may affect your eligibility ported to a medical facility. As one of our Deputies said, “If we’re able to identify for a property tax refund. that a person we’ve encountered at an incident is showing signs of depression, Have you purchased or acquired schizophrenia, anxiety or another condition, we can now make a basic triage of that a property this year? Or was your individual and give medical staff valuable information that could assist in future property previously classified as non- care of the individual.” homestead? You must file a homestead Based on what I already knew about the Crisis Intervention Training and the application with Scott County on or feedback I’ve been getting from our staff, it is clearer to me than ever that this before December 15, 2017, if one of training will create more positive outcomes for our residents in the future. For the following applies: those with loved ones who have a mental health condition, or if you suffer from one • You purchased a property in the yourself, our hope is that our response to your emergencies arrive in a way that ad- past year and you, or a qualifying scottcountymn.gov, or you can apply dresses and resolves issues quickly, effectively, and in a way that is catered to your relative, occupy the property in person at the Scott County Custom- specific behavioral needs. for homestead purposes on er Service Department. I’m grateful to the individual who donated to our office to make this training December 1, 2017; or You must also contact the taxation so readily available to our staff, and I’m proud of the positive changes our staff is • You, or a qualifying relative, department by December 15, 2017 if making in hopes of building stronger connections with our community. The Crisis occupy a property for homestead you are the property owner, or a quali- Intervention Training aligns perfectly with the mission, goals, and vision for the purpose on December 1, 2017, fying relative of the property owner, Scott County Sheriff’s Office as we try to enhance the level of service we provide to and the property was previously and the use of the property has changed you and your loved ones. Thanks to each of you for helping to make Scott County classified as non-homestead. during the past year. a safe place to live, work, and play. If you should sell, move, or for any Follow us on Facebook and Twitter @scottcosheriffoffice A qualifying relative for home- reason no longer qualify for the home- stead purposes depends on the type of stead classification, you are required property. For residential property, to notify the County within 30 days of Time to order young trees, shrubs a qualifying relative can be a parent, the change in homestead status. A form Orders are now being taken for the Scott Soil and Wa- stepparent, child, stepchild, grandpar- is available in the Taxation Depart- ent, grandchild, brother, sister, uncle, ter Conservation District (SWCD) young tree and shrub ment or on the County website (www. sale. This is a great opportunity to add high-quality, low- aunt, nephew, or niece of the owner. scottcountymn.gov) to request the This relationship may be by blood or cost plantings to your yard or acreage. All 32 varieties of homestead be removed from a prop- tree and shrub seedlings being sold thrive in Minnesota’s marriage. For agricultural property, erty for the next assessment. Failure to a qualifying relative can be a child, various soil types and climate. New to the sale this year are notify the County Assessor within this Silky Dogwood, Hackberry Ninebark, Swamp White Oak, grandchild, parent, or sibling of the 30-day period is punishable by recal- owner or spouse of the owner. Once and River Birch. Native seed mixes and tree supplies (mats, culation of the tax as non-homestead; spades, and marking flags) are also for sale. you have been granted the home- in addition to a penalty equal to 100 stead classification, no further appli- percent of the homestead benefits. The sale continues through mid-April, at which time customers can pick up cations are necessary unless they are The Scott County Government their orders at the Scott County Fairgrounds in Jordan. specifically requested by the County Center-Taxation Department is located Call the Scott SWCD office at (952) 492-5425 or send an e-mail to scott- Assessor. at 200 Fourth Avenue West, Shako- [email protected] for more information. You can order online at www. Applications may be printed from pee, Minnesota, 55379 and can also be scottswcdtrees.com, or send your order and payment to the Scott SWCD Of- the Scott County website at www. reached at (952) 496-8115. fice, 7151 190th St. W, Suite 125, Jordan, MN 55352. Page 8 Scott County SCENE October/November 2017 Find Scott County’s home page at www.scottcountymn.gov 4-H volunteers appreciated Volunteering is no easy job! Yet Scott County 4-H volunteers put forth countless hours of personal time and en- ergy. These volunteers cultivate positive youth experience and growth in Scott County 4-H whether it is leading a club or managing the 4-H Food stand during county fair. Our volunteers are there ev- ery step of the way providing positive youth experiences to our Scott County 4-H youth. Our volunteers are our greatest asset in the development of our youth mem- bers. We are truly grateful for their time, dedication, passion, and overall belief in the 4-H mission. Participants at the Baby Fall Formal held Sept. 12 at the Prior Lake Library We would like to recognize Ramona spent some time looking at books. Wacker, who received the 2017 Scott County 4-H Alumni Award, for her time Library News and dedication helping develop and cul- tivate a sense of belonging, mastery, “Haunted” escape room, music, independence, and generosity in our youth in Scott County 4-H. author events planned at libraries Ramona Wacker Back by popular demand, the Library For aspiring authors… will host free “Return to the Haunted The Scott County Library is pleased Library” escape room events for teens to offer local writers a package of new and “Return to Mr. Lemoncello’s tools to write and publish their work Escape Room” for ages 8 - 11 at two electronically. It’s called MN Writes locations in October. The library MN Reads, and is comprised of three Teen Advisory Board is even hosting components that will allow authors to a Haunted Library escape room for write their books online in an eBook adults as a fundraiser ($10 donation format, publish their eBook online, and per person)! Search for secret then allow other Minnesota readers compartments, find hidden clues, to read their books online. Try it out and solve puzzles while the clock is at www.scottlib.org under “Books, ticking -- you only have one hour, so eBooks and More.” The Community Development Agency (CDA) Board is comprised of five teamwork is essential! Registration County Board-appointed members, one from each Board District. They serve is required, so sign up in advance The fall edition of Club Book is just for five-year terms and can be reappointed. Current Board members are:(l. to at www.scottlib.org/Events or by around the corner. r.) Ben Zweber, District II, Bill Jaffa, Executive Director, DeAnn Croatt, District calling or visiting the library. On Nov. 8, 7 – 8 p.m., the Prior Lake I, Jane Victorey, District V, and Patti Sotis, District IV, Kent Robbins, District III Library and Club Prior will host Return to Mr. Lemoncello’s Minnesota author Allen Eskens. This from page 1 Escape Room (ages 8 - 11) former lawyer’s debut thriller, The Life CDA Thursday, Oct. 19, 3 - 3:45 p.m., at We Bury, is set against the backdrop the County levy on property tax state- counseling and education within the the Shakopee Library, (952) 233-9590 of a brutal Minnesota winter and tells ments under “special taxing districts.” past year. In a recent report to the Scott Friday, Oct. 20, 1:30 - 2:15 p.m. at the the story of young Joe Talbert’s efforts The levy helps pay for such things as County Board, Siegert gave the exam- Prior Lake Library, (952) 447-3375 to unearth the truth behind a violent the debt service on the senior housing ple of a single mother of one child who murder while caring for his autistic buildings, salaries, and investments in had worked hard to increase her income, Return to the Haunted Library Teen brother. His newest book, The Deep countywide development and economic participated in the Homebuyers Club Escape Room (free; ages 12 - 18): Dark Descending, debuts in October. development programs, including the and one-on-one pre-purchase counsel- Thursday, Oct. 12, from 5 – 6 p.m. at Mr. Eskens will discuss his books, First Stop Shop (which assists the cit- ing, graduated from the Family Self- the Shakopee Library, (952) 233-9590 and a book signing will follow his ies and townships of Scott County with Sufficiency program, and purchased a Friday, Oct. 27, from 5 – 6 p.m. at the presentation. Doors open at 6:15 p.m., rapid response to business requests). townhome in Prior Lake. Prior Lake Library, (952) 447-3375 and seating is on a first-come, first- The CDA also help put affordable In addition to helping people become served basis. housing within reach for 522 households homeowners, the CDA also assists peo- Haunted Library Adult Escape through a variety of state and federal ple who are threatened by foreclosure. Room ($10 donation, ages 19 plus) Feel the music! rental assistance programs. Residents Staff has provided one-on-one foreclo- Friday, Oct. 27, from 7 – 8 p.m. at the It’s getting chilly outside, so come find housing in the private market and sure counseling to nearly 550 house- Prior Lake Library, (952) 447-3375 in and feel the heat at the Prior pay rent based on income, with the CDA holds since 2011. More than 70 percent Lake Library’s fist Vibe program on administering subsidy dollars to fill in were able to avoid foreclosure (more Be Loud! in the Library. Tuesday, Nov. 14! Warm up with a the gap. This program, called Housing than 80 percent to date this fiscal year). Who says there’s no arts scene in half-hour salsa and Latin dance lesson Choice Voucher (formerly Section 8) Visit the CDA website at www.scottcda. Belle Plaine? Obviously, they haven’t with dancemaster Rene Thompson at serves households with incomes with org for more information on foreclosure been to a Small Town Eclectic open 6:15 p.m., then enjoy two hours of live less than 50 percent of the area median prevention/home buying. mic night hosted at the Belle Plaine music by Salsa del Soul in Club Prior. income. For example, a family of four Making sure residents have jobs in Library. These family-friendly music with an income of $45,200 or less could Scott County is another focus of the and art events showcase local talent in For more information, or to register qualify for a subsidy, if any vouchers CDA with its First Stop Shop and other a supportive atmosphere. There are for any of the programs listed above, are available. economic development activities. Along two upcoming shows: Oct. 23 and Nov. contact your local library or go to In addition, the CDA owns a total with providing information to prospec- 27 – shows are from 6 to 8 p.m. www.scottlib.org/Events. of 418 affordable, market-rate senior tive businesses, the First Stop Shop’s housing units in apartment complexes focus areas include business assistance located in each city, 32 workforce units, programs such as Open to Business; and 204 project-based units subsidized the Economic Development Incen- through federal programs that set rents tive (EDI) Grant Program; SCALE 50 based on a tenant’s income. by 30 Initiative; a County-wide Busi- Waiting lists to access most of these ness Incubator Program; and Economic units can be long, said Julie Siegert, Gardening. CDA Housing Director, adding that Looking toward the future, the CDA the turnover for Rental Assistance pro- is supporting four applications to the grams is 10 to 15 per year and there are Minnesota Housing Finance Agency for 201 on the waiting list. Turnover for preservation of senior housing and new project-based units is 40 to 45 per year construction workforce housing. The and there are 721 on the waiting list. county-wide effort involves the cities The CDA works to accelerate that turn- of Shakopee, Savage, and Jordan. All over by assisting families with coun- of the municipalities are active partners seling and home ownership programs. with the CDA in the form of deferred Since 2011, 300 households have com- fees, tax increment, and land conces- pleted the 16-hour homebuyer educa- sion. In total, approximately 250 units tion course, and 130 are known to have are involved in this collaboration. purchased a home in Scott County and Jaffa said partnerships are critical received a Homebuyers Club Grant for to the CDA, “and we’ve built many of down payment assistance. More than 60 them over the years. It’s really the only The dance floor and mirrors at Club Prior adjacent to the Prior Lake Library households received both homebuyer way to get these projects done.” provided ample space for young dancers at the Baby Fall Formal. Find Scott County’s home page at www.scottcountymn.gov October/November 2017 Scott County SCENE Page 9 Review Highway 13-21 project alternatives at Oct. 10 open house The 13-21 project team has been hard at work developing and evaluating project alternatives for the County Highway (CH) 21 Downtown Prior Lake Reconstruction project. The second open house has been scheduled for Oct. 10, 2017, from 4:30- 7:30 p.m. at the Prior Lake City Hall. The potential project alternatives will be on display for review and public input. A brief presentation will begin at 5:30 p.m. to talk through the alternatives – if you can, we encourage you to attend. If you cannot make it to the presentation, drop in anytime you are able. Project staff will be Moving the classroom outdoors present to answer questions and take comments. We hope to see you there! Getting to search for bugs in pondwater and making bracelets representing the water What’s been happening since the last SCENE? cycle was only a start to the fun for over 1,500 middle school students who attended • Outdoor Education Day at Cedar Lake Farm Park. Hosted by the Scott Soil and Water The third joint work session with the Prior Lake City Council and Conservation District (SWCD) for five days in September this event gets students the Scott County Board was held on September 7 at the Prior Lake outdoors to teach them about conservation and the environment. During their full-day City Hall. At this work session, potential project alternatives were field trip, students walk through the park, stopping at six different stations to participate presented and discussed. This meeting was open to the public, in activities about water, wildlife, forestry, pond, plants, and soils. At the end of the day, however public comment was not included. If you were unable to students are treated to a CLIMB Theatre production about composting and recycling. attend, a video recording of and materials from the meeting are available on the project website – www.movingforward13-21.com. • Two pop-up meetings showcasing the potential project alternatives 4-H, Bayer launch “Science took place in mid-September at the Veterans Harvest Market (VFW) and at the Fall Community Fest (Prior Lake Chamber of Commerce). • “Speak Up! Scott County” is live with discussion topics for the Matters” partnership project. Elected officials, leaders, and staff want to hear your ideas Scott County 4-H and Bayer U.S., Bayer employees and 4-H together for and suggestions regarding current issues facing Scott County. Join LLC have been working together to hands-on science activities to showcase the discussion today to weigh in on project goals, your use of the provide programing for the upcoming why science matters for everyone. “It’s corridor, and the potential project alternatives. 4-H year. It was recently announced that up to us to reach out to these youth,” Bayer and 4-H are launching a national he adds. “We’re looking at 25,000 new If you missed any of these events or the first Open House back in June, check “Science Matters” partnership. Through touchpoints.” out the project website at www.movingforward13-21.com to see the presented this partnership, special efforts will be Bayer will be sponsoring the 4-H materials. Public engagement events will be ongoing throughout the process made to involve youth in science, tech- Agri-Science Summit in Washington – watch the website and the project’s Facebook page for the most up-to-date nology, engineering, and math (STEM)- D.C. that teaches students about mod- schedule and information. related fields. Cooperatively, plans are ern ag practices and career opportuni- to provide an inclusive environment ties, and provides more than 30 hours for youth to develop their interests and of learning and problem solving. In ad- build community. dition, the company will provide up to About 26 million STEM-related 200 scholarships and offer community Teens need a safe jobs go unfilled each year. Many stu- grants to extend the program’s reach. dents lose interest in these subjects as Bayer is already a sponsor of the 4-H they enter middle school. The partner- Youth in Action Award, which the com- environment to take risks ship with Bayer is designed to promote pany says will add another dimension to student interest in these fields of study. the “Science Matters” initiative. Ray Kerins, Bayer senior vice president Scott County 4-H and Bayer will that produce growth of corporate affairs, said the $800,000 continue working together to provide We know that young people take youth for risks by scaling them up ap- “Science Matters” investment will bring programing for the upcoming 4-H year. risks. An image of a group of teens propriately. For example, a youth goes drinking, smoking, or skipping school to a day camp first, and a three-day resi- may instantly form in your mind when dential camp later. Or a young person you think about risky behavior. But risk- shows their projects at the county fair taking is not necessarily something to for a couple of years before taking one Top 10 reasons to join 4-H avoid. Teen brains are programmed for to the State Fair. experimentation. Additional preparation may take the 1. There is something for everyone! Aerospace to Zoology, from Goldfish to We must build a culture of healthy form of more formal training. For exam- Cattle, youth can find a variety of quality learning activities to enjoy within risk-taking for youth. Research shows ple, we don’t throw our high school-age Scott County 4-H. us that young people need to reach camp counselors into a three-day camp, 2. You can make new friends! 4-H is a great place to outside their comfort zones to try new wish them luck, and go home. We spend meet new friends and to learn about other cultures things in order to reach their potential. hours training them on youth develop- and lifestyles. Last year, more than 113,000 kids Taking healthy risks is a normal part of ment principles, leading activities, and throughout Minnesota participated in 4-H. positive youth development. going through various scenarios. We 3. Learning is fun! 4-H uses experiential The 4-H program provides members have a staff person on site as a safety learning. working hands-on to learn about of all ages the opportunity to take appro- net. In other words, we provide a safe leadership, projects, and technology. priate risks in a safe environment. For environment, with supportive adults, to 4. Camp is totally awesome! 4-H offers various camps children, that might mean: take on the challenge of being a camp and leadership retreats across the state. • Joining a club counselor. 5. You’ll be active! 4-H is always moving, from swimming at camp to • Talking to a judge The highest quality youth develop- learning parliamentary procedures. You’ll always find a place within 4-H. • Inviting a friend to a 4-H meeting ment programs allow youth to explore 6. Cows, crafts, and cooking! The Scott County Fair is a great opportunity for or event and take advantage of risks that align everyone involved in 4-H to come together to show their projects and build • Going to camp with their individual developmental camaraderie with other 4-Hers. processes. Adults play the supporting 7. We love our volunteers! Volunteers are the heart of our program. Parents For adolescents, the risks can be big- role in this discovery process. Providing and volunteers work together to bring new and great ideas to partner with ger, such as: a safe environment to do this is part of youth in various capacities of 4-H. • Trying a new project or digging program quality. 8. Family events! Everyone in your family can be involved. 4-H youth range deeper into a favorite topic Have you worked with a young per- from Cloverbuds (Kindergarten – 2nd grade) to one year post high school. • Becoming a 4-H Ambassador son who needed support to take a risk? 9. Explore your interests! Like fashion, robots, or even horses? 4-H has an • Showing a project at the state fair What ways to do you provide a safe activity for you! for the first time place for youth to take a healthy risk? 10. 4-H will be unforgettable! Memories and friendships made will last a For more information on taking positive lifetime. “A ship is always safe at shore – but risks with 4-H, contact Sara at (952) that is not what it is built for.” -- John 492-5388 or Ian at (952) 492-5384. For more information on how to join 4-H, please contact Ian at (952) 492- A. Shedd 5384 or Sara at (952) 492-5388, or visit our website for more information: http:// Reference: Karen Beranek, University www3.extension.umn.edu/county/scott/4-h There are some steps we take before of Minnesota Extension Educator launching a ship, right? We also prepare Page 10 Scott County SCENE October/November 2017 Find Scott County’s home page at www.scottcountymn.gov Healthy competition -- It’s a good thing, right? We all want our young people to succeed; we want them to win in the show, the ring, on the fi eld, or on the Make healthy choice the easy choice court. But what does that win look like to you? Is it winning the game, or By Gloria Wolf, SNAP-Ed Educator is it learning a new skill or improving The University of Minnesota’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Edu- their performance? Being competitive cation (SNAP-Ed) helps low-income individuals in Scott County and throughout and developing mastery can go hand- Minnesota make diet and lifestyle choices to improve their health and prevent obe- in-hand, but there are times when that sity. SNAP-Ed classes teach participants how to shop for healthy foods, within a balance might need to be equalized. limited budget, at area stores and farmers markets. We demonstrate quick, easy, Competition is natural. Research shows fun ways to prepare healthful, delicious meals and help agencies create and sustain that kids as young as four and fi ve start environments that support people in their efforts to eat healthier foods and become to compare themselves to others. They more physically active. start to develop the drive to compete. Competition is everywhere. Whether How is SNAP-Ed making a difference for low income residents in Scott County? in sports, jobs, school or 4-H, we fi nd • CAP Agency Food Shelf: We teach folks how to add nutritional value opportunities to compete with others. Competition shouldn’t be just about to their meals with vegetables and whole grains and how to involve their Professor emeritus of educational winning; it should also include children in food preparation. psychology at the University of Min- having fun and learning new skills. • Fare for All: We refer class participants to this monthly program that helps nesota David Johnson, says, “Kids them realize how much food they get for their money and how to prepare it in will compete naturally and want to have a large infl uence on the process of a low fat, low sodium way. be the best, but parents can help chil- balancing cooperation and competition. • Shakopee Community Assistance/Loaves and Fishes: Outreach on how to dren understand that competition is Here are a few suggestions from the au- apply for SNAP and access to SNAP-Ed is provided to local residents. not just about winning; it’s about hav- thors of Putting Youth Back into Sports: • PACE Family Literacy: Parents learn how to make healthy snacks for their ing fun and learning important skills.” • Focus on the mastery of skills children and how to reduce fat and sodium in their cooking. Physical activity “By taking the emphasis off win- instead of the outcome. Youth is demonstrated by the YMCA with stretch bands. ning and putting it on mastery,” John- will feel more successful whether • New Options: To support their Wellness Program for clients, SNAP-Ed uses son said, “the individual and the team or not they are “offi cially” the exercise cubes to encourage group exercise, plus many hands-on teaching — classroom, country, world — will winner of the game. tools to reach participants on the risks of too much sugar, sodium, and fat. grow in the process.” As youth work • Be sensitive to each youth’s • Boessling Apartments: Building residents participate in a target curriculum on mastery and begin to experience skills, personalities, and to help them “Eat Smart, Live Strong” with fruit and vegetables, plus daily success at solving problems and meet- temperaments. Offer activities chair exercises. ing challenges, they will then de- that promote team efforts and • Shakopee International Festival: Using a nutrition spinning wheel and velop the self-confi dence they need encourage everyone to play a role trivia questions, we provide outreach to youth in downtown Shakopee. to feel and believe they are capable. in helping the team as a whole. “Competition involves more ego-ori- • Give encouragement and Through group classes and other community outreach activities, SNAP-Ed ented goals and tends to promote the positive feedback to every helps Scott County eligible program residents “Make the Healthy Choice the Easy attitudes that ‘winning is everything’,” member of the team. Choice.” If your agency would like to partner in providing nutrition education writes the authors of the University of • Help youth to see mistakes as to your clients, contact Gloria Wolf, SNAP-Ed Educator, University of Minnesota Illinois Extension’s Putting Youth Back learning tools. Extension, at (612) 596-2125. Into Sports training curriculum. “It often • Encourage youth to set personal discourages children from trying new goals to challenge themselves and tasks, but can encourage them to break master skills. the rules in order to win. Competition, un- U of M offers home study like cooperation, often implies that any How do you help young people grow sport or activity is an individual sport, in their balance of mastery and competi- courses on raising beef and teamwork is not a consideration.” tion? 4-H offers project workshops and Angela Reinhart, University of Illinois positive adult mentors to help students Three semi-self-paced home study Extension, says that cooperation is key. achieve a level of mastery in a subject courses are available online with regis- Research as far back as 1978 shows that area. If you would like to learn more tration open now through mid-January. cooperation, the “willingness to work about 4-H and our many project work- Course materials and discussion boards together to achieve a common pur- shops, please call Sara at (952) 492- will be posted on the course Moodle pose,” empowers youth with creative 5388 or Ian at (952) 492-5384, or check site. problem-solving skills, better commu- out our website http://www3.extension. nication skills, more sharing of emo- umn.edu/county/scott/4-H. • Introduction to Beef Cattle tions, and a better sense of community. Feeding: An introduction to the Healthy competition is possible with Reference: Trisha Sheehan, principles of cattle feeding with a the help of positive adults in young University of Minnesota 4-H focus on cattle health, nutrition, people’s lives. Parents and other adults Extension Educator facilities, and best management practices of manure handling and Learn about feeding beef cows, usage. manure management, breeding, • Cow/Calf Health Management: diseases, and calf care in the home Land rental rates to be Lesson topics will include study courses. breeding management, pre-calving health, newborn calf care, diseases The registration fee is $75, and topic of upcoming meetings of the cow herd, and parasite courses will begin in January and close Awareness of the upcoming fi nancial control. in early April. To learn more and reg- outlook related to the cost of crop pro- • Cow/Calf Nutrition: Apply ister, go to http://www.extension.umn. duction and current commodity prices is principles of nutrition to cow/ edu/agriculture/beef/. If you do not an important starting point in develop- calf production, feedstuffs, have access to the internet, please con- ing a fair rental agreement. Land rental grazing, wintering cattle, feeding tact Colleen Carlson at the Scott County rates are one of the most important fi - for breeding, and pre-weaning Extension offi ce at (952) 492-5386 or nancial topics with which producers and nutrition. [email protected]. landowners deal. Learn important skills necessary to successfully manage and negotiate farmland rental arrangements Looking for a few good teens during an upcoming Land Rent Semi- Land rental seminars will be held nar hosted by the University of Min- Nov. 13 and Dec. 15. to teach younger students nesota Extension Ag Business Manage- Scott County Fairgrounds (7151- 190th Scott County Youth Teaching Youth is seeking 9-12th graders who will ment Extension Educator, David Bau. Street West, Jordan) and Friday, Dec. remain tobacco, alcohol, and drug-free so they can serve as volunteer teach- The program will cover contract man- 15, 1:30 - 3:30 p.m., at the Elko New ers and mentors to younger students in our local schools.Training will be agement –including lease types, tools to Market Library (110 J. Roberts Way, provided during out of school time. Once trained, teens will be asked to assist with determining a fair rental rate, Elko New Market). teach three one-hour class series (in school time -- teen teachers are excused and improving negotiation skills. All For further discussion of land rental from their classes and picked up in a county vehicle) to teach the following of these are aimed at making contract rates, sample leases, and decision mak- programs: negotiations fair and reasonable for pro- ing tools, contact Colleen Carlson, Character Counts Alcohol & Tobacco Decisions ducers and landowners. Extension Educator, Ag Production Internet Safety Building Up: Creating Community in the Classroom In Scott County, two Land Rent Systems in Carver and Scott Coun- For more information, contact Sara Wagner at the Extension Offi ce, (952) Seminars will be held: ties, at [email protected] or call the 492-5388 or [email protected] Monday, Nov. 13, 1 – 3 p.m., at the Scott County Extension offi ce at (952) Scott County Extension offi ce on the 492-5386. Find Scott County’s home page at www.scottcountymn.gov October/November 2017 Scott County SCENE Page 11 EmergenSCENE By Captain Scott Haas Emergency Management and Communications Director Help needed to assist multi-language residents during emergencies Scott County has seen tre- mendous growth in the last 20 years. Since 1997, Scott County has been the fast- est growing county in Min- nesota, and also one of the fastest growing in the nation. Almost four out of every 10 current Scott County resi- dents did not call Scott Coun- ty home 20 years ago. The Sheriff’s Office is working to directly Because of this tremen- engage the multi-lingual community to help Law Library News dous growth, we have an with planning for emergencies. ever-changing and evolving population. Most of us have seen the changes to our area over the last couple of decades, but do we really understand it? According to the U.S. Census, 8.2 percent (11,775) of our residents were not born in the United Child custody issues States. DataUSA estimates that 11.6 percent of Scott County’s population does not speak English at home. It is estimated that five percent of Scott County’s popula- tion does not speak English at all. remain a major topic This is especially concerning to us in the Emergency Management division of The Law Library has been receiving holds -- a 100 percent increase since the Sheriff’s Office. Language and cultural differences can present a challenge a lot of questions about custody lately. 1990. All of these caregivers face legal when we need to deliver a message about threats and emergencies. Child custody can be confusing and issues if they do not have legal custody Living in the Midwest, we are familiar with the hazards associated with tor- an emotionally-charged issue. People of the children living in their homes. nados. Yet most tornados occur in the United States. We cannot simply assume aren’t sure who legally has physical Pro Justice MN reports: “Without legal that someone who has moved her from another part of the world will understand a custody, what “legal custody” is, how custody or a formal delegation of au- tornado warning emergency alert on their phone or television, or know what action to change or obtain custody, and how to thority to the kinship caregiver, a kin- to take when outdoor warning sirens activate. give someone else temporary custody. ship caregiver may not be able to obtain The Scott County Sheriff’s Office is working towards improving our ability to The most frequent questions the Law medical treatment, enroll the children reach the limited English proficiency population, particularly in times of disas- Library receives are from unmarried in school, or participate in the develop- ter. The Emergency Management division recently invited representatives from fathers who believe they have custody ment of an Individual Education Plan the multi-lingual community in Scott County to meet with city and County staff to rights because they signed paperwork (IEP) for children with disabilities. Fur- discuss current communication tools and their effectiveness in reaching the non- at the hospital when the child was born, ther, without legal custody the kinship English speaking population. Our hope is that this will lead to a better relationship and they are paying child support. Sign- caregiver will have difficulty protect- between our responders and our limited English proficiency population. ing a Recognition of Parentage (ROP) ing the child from a parent who has not Scott County Emergency Management is also working with technology partners does not give the unmarried father any yet resolved the problem which led to on methods to improve our capabilities to communicate with those with limited legal rights to the child. In Minnesota, placement in the kinship home in the English proficiency. One of these methods is through TPT (Twin Cities Public statutes award the mother sole custody first place.” These caregivers face the Television) Channel 2-5. TPT will soon release a tool allowing local emergency and allows for the biological father to emotional, physical, and (frequently) fi- managers to send emergency messages in four languages on Channel 2-5. This petition the court for “rights of parent- nancial strain of caring for and feeding type of innovation will hopefully allow our emergency messages to reach a broader ing time or custody in an independent these children. Many of these children audience and save lives or minimize injuries. Even for native English speakers, this action.” have been traumatized by their parent’s partnership will establish a source for reliable, timely information in an emergency. The Law Librarians don’t generally drug or alcohol abuse or mental illness. The Sheriff’s Office is also working to directly engage the multi-lingual com- see unmarried fathers until there is a One solution for parents that can munity. We are working to develop partnerships with community and business problem. Usually, it is when the couple no longer take care of their children is leaders. As these relationships grow, we intend to customize preparedness training has parted ways or the mother has de- to give someone else temporary legal for a more diverse community. We recognize that building relationships based on cided to move far away. A court order custody with a form called a DOPA. trust will take time. We hope that these relationships will keep all of our neighbors can help the father make sure that he can A DOPA is a “Temporary Delegation safe before, during, and after emergencies. spend time with the child, get holiday or of Parental Authority.” A DOPA gives Lastly, we ask for your help. In Scott County, neighbors help neighbors. A vacation time, get notice if the mother permission to another person called friendship made today will keep us all stronger when we face a disaster. wants to move out of state or give some- the “Attorney–in-Fact” to make deci- one else temporary custody of the child. sions on behalf of the parent’s child or The instructions and forms to establish children. A separate DOPA is required custody for unmarried parents can be for each child. A DOPA does not need Take quiz to determine found at the Minnesota Judicial Branch to be approved or filed with the court. Self-Help Center at http://www.mn- The parent must sign the DOPA in front health of your relationship courts.gov/Help-Topics/Child-Custody. of a notary and have the notary seal on “Honoring Her Journey” is the against girls and aspx. The Self-Help Center also offers the DOPA. It is effective as soon as it is theme for Southern Valley Alliance women on network free phone assistance with court forms notarized. A DOPA can only be used for for Battered Women’s 35th anniversary. TV from 2004 to from attorneys. Assistance is available one year, but a new DOPA can be cre- Since 1982, SVABW has served nearly 2009. Between Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 3 ated at the end of the year. A copy of the 20,000 victims. Domestic violence is violent song lyrics, p.m. at (651) 259-3888. DOPA must be given to the other par- an epidemic and is prevalent in every violent music vid- Grandparents also have rights to visit ent within 30 days of the signing of the community, even beautiful, rural, idyl- eos, violent video their grandchildren in Minnesota; State DOPA, unless the other parent has no lic Scott and Carver Counties. Last games, violent TV, Statute 257C.08 addresses grandpar- parenting rights or there is an Order for year, SVABW served 731 victims in our and the violence ent’s visitation rights with their grand- Protection in effect. LawHelpMN of- communities; domestic violence does portrayed in adver- children. As in all custody matters, the fers an online tool to create a DOPA that not discriminate, and affects people re- tising, if children best interests of the child are always the can be found at: https://www.lawhelpmn. gardless of age, economic status, sexual Southern Valley are not having a most important factors in determining org/resource/online-delegation-of-parental- orientation, gender, race, religion, or Alliance for healthy relation- who spends time with the children. authority?ref=St6QfXccH#1. nationality. Domestic violence is an Battered Women ship modeled for In some cases, children are be- There is also a wonderful non-profit epidemic. them at home, they ing raised by someone other than their organization that offers options and le- Society is becoming increasingly are not learning what a healthy relation- parents, maybe a grandparent or aunt, gal information for grandparents and violent, as evidenced by the 120 per- ship looks like. Domestic violence is a cousin or friend. According to the Annie other caregivers raising someone else’s cent increase in portrayals of violence learned behavior, and unfortunately, our E. Casey Foundation, over 2.7 million children. Warmlines operates under the children are learning less about healthy children in the U.S. are being raised by umbrella of Lutheran Social Services. relationships and more about unhealthy/ family members or close family friends. They offer assistance to the caregiver, violent relationships. According to the U.S. Census, since and also have programs for the children. To find out how healthy your rela- 1990, there has been a national increase They can be reached (651) 917-4640 or tionship is, SVABW invites you to go to of 30 percent of children being raised by at [email protected]. their website www.svabw.org and take someone other than their parent. For information about custody or their quiz, “How Healthy is Your Rela- In Minnesota, there are over 90,000 any legal issue, please contact the Scott tionship?” They also have a short com- children being raised by family mem- County Law Library at (952) 496-8713 munity survey that you can take. Visit bers or friends. Of these, 47,679 chil- or e-mail them at [email protected]. their website www.svabw.org and like dren live in grandparent-headed house- them on FB, LinkedIn, and Twitter. Page 12 Scott County SCENE October/November 2017 Find Scott County’s home page at www.scottcountymn.gov News you can use...
Scott County Association for Leadership and Ef- mid-summer, they play an important role in preventing ficiency (SCALE) brings you “news you can use” – all that pollution from getting into the lakes, rivers and updates on road projects, local events, community de- wetlands. velopments and programs, and other things you might The City of Savage does not treat stormwater ponds want to know – such as how your tax dollars are being or wetlands for algae, weeds, odors, or other aesthetic put to use. SCALE’s mission is: “To forge new and problems. The City does regular maintenance to en- innovative ways in which government entities can col- sure the pond continues to function properly. This laborate to provide outstanding service while making includes maintaining the 17-foot buffer which is re- the most of limited resources.” quired around the pond, and periodically dredging to remove sediment buildup in the bottom of the pond. From Belle Plaine: As a resident, you can help preserve storm water ponds and keep them looking nice by: Investing in a vibrant downtown • Limiting the use of fertilizers and pesticides The City of Belle Plaine is investing in its residents When mowing and raking, help protect surface near ponds. and their quality of life. The City has been working on water by keeping grass clippings, leaves, soil, and • Picking up and disposing of pet waste. several projects this summer, and is moving towards other materials off the streets. • Not dumping grass clippings or leaves in the its goal of becoming a more vibrant community. Proj- Grass clippings, leaves, and other organic mate- pond. ects include changes in the central downtown business rial that the sweeper picks up contains phosphorus, • Not mowing down to the water’s edge. Instead district (with the addition of lighting and community the nutrient that can turn our surface waters (ponds, leave a buffer of native plants to trap and clean runoff space), and new walking trails on the south side of the lakes, and rivers) green with algae. When it rains, the and add wildlife habitat. city. water that doesn’t soak into the ground becomes run- • Not pouring chemicals, oils, et cetera in or Belle Plaine is participating in the Minnesota off that drains onto streets from connected impervious near the pond. GreenStep City Challenge, and these projects are a surfaces such as driveways and rooftops. The streets • Sweeping driveway and sidewalk debris into means towards the Step Three designation. Minnesota then carry this runoff into the storm sewer system – the lawn or gardens; do not hose it into the street. GreenStep Cities is a voluntary program designed to City’s network of curb/gutter, inlets, pipes, stormwater • Capturing storm water run-off from roofs and help cities achieve their sustainability and quality-of- ponds, and outlets. The storm sewer system serves to driveways in rain barrels or raingardens. life goals; think of it as a long-term investment for protect public safety (street drainage) while also pro- residents. viding some water quality treatment before runoff en- Most importantly, we must accept these ponds for Belle Plaine’s downtown hosts many community ters surface waters. Grass clippings and leaves start to what they are -- treatment devices -- and accept their festivals and events, and the City is working in col- leach phosphorus as soon as they contact water. If they purpose, which is to keep pollution out of the lakes and laboration with the Chamber of Commerce and Fes- are allowed to wash into our storm sewer system, ex- rivers we fish in, swim in, and enjoy. If you see storm- tival and Events to invest in a vibrant downtown. In- cess phosphorus will enter our surface waters and con- water system issues (like dirt flowing to a pond or river, stallation has begun on programmable LED uplighting tribute to excessive algae growth. Excess algae growth large amounts of litter in a storm water structure, un- around tree bases in the central business district. This makes water related activities like boating, fishing, authorized dumping into storm water drains, polluted additional lighting is a way of enhancing pedestrian and swimming much less enjoyable. storm water ponds, et cetera), please contact your City. safety, creating a positive pedestrian experience, and Residents can support the City’s efforts and help In Savage, please e-mail [email protected] or enhancing the beauty of the downtown architecture. target the phosphorus problem on their own properties. call (952) 882-2686. In addition, Belle Plaine’s downtown will feature a When mowing and raking this fall, help protect our plaza at the corner of Meridian and Main Streets where surface water resources by keeping grass clippings, community events can be held. The paved plaza will leaves, soil, and other material off the streets. Residents Savage Parks and Recreation have permanent stand-up tables and be shaded with can compost leaves and grass clippings on their prop- donates to Hurricane Harvey relief slip sail coverings. There will also be a wired stage erty or bring the material to Dakotah Roots, the Sha- The Savage Parks for entertainment, and it has been proposed that Thurs- kopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community’s (SMSC’s) and Recreation De- day nights be host to a variety of food trucks along the Organics Recycling Facility, located at 1905 Mystic partment has shipped street. This attractive space can be the home to many Lake Drive South in Shakopee. All Scott County resi- 237 youth t-shirts community events, such as the Public Library’s Small- dents can drop off compost material for free on Sun- to Bethel Heavenly town Eclectic Open Mic Night, Farmers Market, and days from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. during the rest of October. Hands Church in other events throughout the year. Acceptable material includes leaves, shrubs, brush and Houston, TX as part Belle Plaine has also been constructing a new trail logs, mulch, grass clippings, and other organics. of Hurricane Harvey segment from the Enterprise Drive Overpass to West relief efforts. Century Street. This biking and walking trail will help “Parks and Recre- safely connect residents and visitors to neighborhoods ation is all about cre- and parks on either side of Highway 169. ating community and Belle Plaine is a city where the well-being of its connecting people. residents is important, and is evident with the types of Providing basic neces- Savage Recreation Coord- projects that have been completed this summer. When inator Gina Robinette helped sities like clean, dry t- pack up a donation of 237 looked at individually, the downtown uplighting, shirts to kids who have downtown plaza, and the Meridian Street Trail proj- unused youth tee shirts for lost everything, is just victims of Hurricane Harvey. ects are all important assets to the community. When one small way we can combined as a whole, they make Belle Plaine an ap- show that we care about the Houston community too,” pealing and desirable community to live and work. said Parks and Recreation Manager Greg Boatman. The t-shirts are a variety of sizes and colors and From Prior Lake: are left over from the various Savage Parks and Rec- Street runoff drains to ponds, Stormwater ponds collect runoff and pollutants reation Sports Camps and Recreation programs from such as salt, sand, fertilizers, grass clippings, and past summers. “We held on to these hoping that we lakes, and rivers: Keeping it clean even pet waste before it reaches lakes and rivers. could put them to good use someday,” said Recreation The City of Prior Lake implements an intensive From Savage: Coordinator Gina Robinette. “When I saw the devasta- street sweeping program, targeting critical areas of the tion of Harvey, I thought donating them to Houston City with an increased sweeping frequency. Some ar- Ponds with a purpose would be a good way to help. So I did some research eas may see the street sweeper as often as once per Many residents have small man-made ponds in online, and eventually found this church that is an au- week during the upcoming busy fall season. The most their neighborhoods or backyards, but what are they thorized shelter and accepting drop-off donations. I critical areas are those areas that have direct drainage really for? reached out to the pastor who said one of their needs and no modern stormwater practices, such as storm- When it rains or snow melts, water runs off of hard, was kids clothing.” water ponds or raingardens, to treat runoff from our impervious surfaces like streets, parking lots, roofs, Robinette packed up two large boxes and included streets before it enters our impaired lakes (Spring and and sidewalks. This is called stormwater runoff, and a short note from the Parks and Recreation staff to the Upper Prior). Drainage to other water bodies, includ- it is the leading cause of water pollution in the United church letting them know that, even though Savage is ing Lower Prior Lake, also has an increased priority. States. Stormwater ponds capture and treat this run- more than a thousand miles from Houston, they are In 2016, the City collected approximately 1 million off and the pollutants it carries such as salt, sand, fer- close in our thoughts and hearts. “It may be a small do- pounds of material (dirt, leaves, grass clippings, et ce- tilizers, grass clippings, and even pet waste, before it nation in the relief effort of such a big natural disaster,” tera) from our streets – material that would have oth- reaches our lakes, rivers, and wetlands. The ponds also acknowledged Gina, “but if we can do our part to help, erwise been washed into our storm sewer system, and reduce flooding by controlling the run-off and slowing no matter how small, I hope it will help in the big step ultimately our waters. Through this enhanced street the time it takes to reach rivers. back to recovery for Houston.” sweeping program, the City is able to improve water Here in the City of Savage, we have over 250 wet- quality and reduce the frequency of costly stormwater lands and stormwater ponds that are not just landscap- SCALE NEWS Continued on next page pond maintenance, such as dredging. ing features. And while they may get smelly and green Find Scott County’s home page at www.scottcountymn.gov October/November 2017 Scott County SCENE Page 13 CAP Corner CAP gears up for holiday projects, fundraising efforts By Joseph Vaughan Give Where You Live gala CAP Executive Director Also coming up in November is our Autumn is here, the weather is cool- annual Give Where You Live gala. This ing, and kids are back in school. CAP event is a special evening to thank our Agency is proud that we were once donors and partners, share the successes again able to offer our school supply of the past year, and look ahead to what distribution program to ensure that all the next year holds for CAP and our students have what they need to succeed communities. This year’s event will be this year. For the first time, all back- held on November 15. More informa- packs and school supplies distributed tion will be posted at www.capagency. to kids in need were provided exclu- org as the date nears. Donors provide services, items to help homeless sively by donations. A huge thank This year’s Project Community Connect, an event to aid people who are you to Shutterfly, United Way, Post Give to the Max Day homeless or at risk of homelessness, was a huge success, thanks to over Consumer Brands, Lorie Senske, St On November 16, GiveMN is once 6,000 donations from area residents and businesses from throughout Scott Joseph’s Catholic Church, Mary Rein, again hosting Give to the Max Day. On and Carver counties. Along with personal care items, donations also included Klein Bank, Shakopee Mdewakanton that day, you can go to GiveMN.org, services such as haircuts, 500 coats, hats, blankets, and quilts. The event ran Sioux Community, and Sanmar for their select “Scott Carver Dakota CAP Agen- smoothly with the assistance of 132 volunteers (County employees, residents, generosity. With the help of these do- cy,” and make a donation to our orga- and nursing students). A big thank you to everyone who contributed items nors -- as well as our many other com- nization! By donating on Give to Max and time. munity and individual partners -- we Day, you help CAP become eligible for were able to distribute backpacks filled prize money and matching donations. with school supplies to hundreds of lo- This 24-hour event is intended to raise cal students. awareness of philanthropy and create a Considering bankruptcy? spirit of community giving. This year, Annual Holiday Projects for the first time, donors may schedule Although fall has just begun, we are their donations ahead of time! Begin- Financial advice is available gearing up for our annual holiday proj- ning November 1, donors may use the Learn what options are available to or Chapter 13 bankruptcy. ects. Once again, givemn.org website to schedule their pursue before making the move to file Although most bankruptcy is CAP will be offer- donations. Consider this option to for bankruptcy. governed by federal law, some as- ing the Hope for the avoid any technical issues on Give to For many individuals, filing for pects of bankruptcy are controlled Holiday and Toy the Max Day, and to ensure you don’t bankruptcy can provide a way out of by state law. To understand the rules Distribution pro- forget to donate. And of course, dona- debt and a fresh financial start. But and regulations that apply to Min- grams to families tions can be made any time to CAP by whether or not a bankruptcy filing is in nesota bankruptcy law, go to http:// in need this holiday going to www.capagency.org/donate. your best interest depends on many fac- www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/ season. Thanks to donor and sponsor I want to sincerely thank those who tors and your individual circumstances. minnesota-bankruptcy-information support, we provided over 3000 individ- have participated in Give to the Max A good first step is to meet with a If you have questions, please feel uals and more than 1000 families with Day in the past, as well as those who consumer credit counselor. Non-profit free to contact Shawna Faith Thomp- gifts throughout the holiday season last have contributed to our annual Give agencies that are certified by the Na- son, Financial Capability Educator, U year. However, the demand continues to Where You Live campaign and those tional Foundation for Credit Counsel- of MN Extension at shawnaft@umn. grow every year. CAP Agency’s holi- who have helped to sustain our orga- ling will provide unbiased financial edu or (952) 492-5383. day projects help families experience nization and our work throughout the education and counseling services to the joy of the holidays by providing year. Without you, our work would help determine what the best path is for References: https://www.nfcc.org/ children with new gifts. With household not be possible. Please don’t hesitate to you. Go to https://www.nfcc.org/loca- locator/ budgets being stretched thin by necessi- reach out to us either through our web- tor/ to find a NFCC accredited agency http://www.nolo.com/legal- ties, these gifts ease the burden on par- site or by emailing [email protected] near you. encyclopedia/considering-bankruptcy. ents. We envision a joy-filled holiday for more information on volunteering, Go to http://www.nolo.com/legal- html for our families. If you are interested donating, and who we are and what we encyclopedia/considering-bankruptcy. http://www.nolo.com/legal- in sponsoring a family for Hope for the do. We look forward to hearing from html to view some things to think about encyclopedia/minnesota-bankruptcy- Holiday, please email kwodtke@capa- you. Remember, We Are All Connected. before you decide to file for Chapter 7 information gency.org or call (952) 402-9831. SCALE news From page 12 Volunteer drivers Savage replacing water meters ments will also be available for purchase. Don’t forget from page 1 to wear your costume! Register now at cityofsavage. less fortunate with a comfortable ride to their appoint- To date, over 900 water meters have been replaced com/annualcityevents/item/655-halloween-bash. All ments and conversations about the past good times and or upgraded in Zone 1, which is roughly 50 percent ages welcome -- and ages 1 and under are free! Pre- memories.” completed. A second mailing of postcards was recent- registration deadline: Oct. 25, $8 per person; after pre- Getting where you need to go is a universal need ly sent to homes/businesses in Zone 1 who have not registration deadline/walk-ins: $10 per person. for everyone, and as the Scott County population con- made an appointment yet. Postcards in Zone 2 were tinues to grow, so does the need for more volunteers mailed in early September. Remember, if you receive From the Shakopee to offer their assistance and time driving individuals a postcard or door hanger, that is your sign to call and Mdewakanton Sioux that do not have a vehicle of their own or easy access schedule an appointment. Find more information, a to public transportation. As our community also ages, list of frequently asked questions, and a short video Community: an increasing number of seniors will give up their keys explaining the installation process at cityofsavage. Fire Prevention Week Open House to drive but still need to get to appointments and other com/water-meter-replacement/program. Mdewakanton Public Safety invites you to their social events that contribute to their quality of life. Fire Prevention Week Open House on Oct.11 from 5 Being a volunteer driver does not have to be time SAVAGE TV Open House, Oct. 24 – 8 p.m. Stop by for fire engine rides, meet Sparky consuming -- it is flexible and allows a volunteer to Residents, students, and teachers are invited to a the Dog, and get your picture taken in firefighter gear! determine how much or little time he or she can offer free Open House at the Savage TV Studios, Savage Located at 2525 Flandreau Trail NW in Prior Lake, the during a week or month. As Doug states, his family City Hall, 6000 McColl Dr. on Tuesday, Oct. 24 from MPS Fire Prevention Week Open House will also fea- comes first: “With five kids and nine grandkids, rang- 6 – 7 p.m. Come discover how Savage TV staff and ture a chili cook-off and light refreshments for guests. ing in age from one to 15, my calendar is filled be- volunteers create public, educational, and government tween the family first, then volunteering what time is programming. Learn how to create your own program- Taste of the holidays left in the week. I will continue to volunteer as long ming, see equipment that is available for public use, Prepare for the holiday season at Mazopiya’s Taste as I have the freedom to accept or reject rides so I am and volunteer opportunities to help make local televi- of the Holidays event on Nov. 11 from noon – 4 p.m., available to spend time with my family.” sion happen. Savage TV provides programming on located at 2571 Credit Union Drive in Prior Lake. ScottVolunteers.com is actively seeking to recruit Mediacom Channel 107-2, 3 and 4 and Integra Chan- Sample delicious, gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian additional volunteer drivers! If you are able to help, nel 18, 16 and 20. holiday fare, and don’t forget to stop by one of the please contact Cara Madsen, Scott County Volunteer many classes hosted in the Mazopiya Teaching Kitch- & Community Coordinator, to start the process today. Halloween Bash, Oct. 28 en throughout the afternoon! Cara can be reached at (952) 496-8169 or via e-mail at The community is invited to attend the annual Hal- [email protected]. Benefits of being a volun- loween Bash on Saturday, Oct. 28 from 5 – 8 p.m. This teer driver include: spooktacular event takes place in the Savage Sports Free yard waste recycling Bring your yard waste down to the SMSC Organ- • Knowing you are making a difference. Center, located within Savage Community Park at ics Recycling Facility any Sunday in October from 8 • Meeting new people. 13450 Dakota Ave, Savage. This community-wide a.m. – 2 p.m. for free yard waste recycling! If you’re • Getting more than you give. event provides families a fun and safe place to cel- a Scott County resident, all you have to do is present • Ability to donate time rather than money. ebrate Halloween by playing games, jumping in in- ORF staff with a valid ID. The SMSC ORF is located • Mileage reimbursement. flatables, dancing to DJ entertainment, and enjoying at 1905 Mystic Lake Drive S., Shakopee. Learn more • Free Defensive Driving course through Scott s’mores around a campfire! Other kid friendly refresh- about the other services ORF offers at smscorf.com. County, resulting in lower insurance costs. Page 14 Scott County SCENE October/November 2017 Find Scott County’s home page at www.scottcountymn.gov SCHS plans “Pedaling the Veterans’ SCENE Past” bike tour, holiday events By Jerry Brua Wish You Were Here: Tourism in threads, tips, fun, and friendship. Free Director of Veterans Services Scott County -- Scott County has (SCHS requests that Scott County been a vacation destination for over a Crazy Quilters become Historical century! This Scott County Historical Society members). Lunch, license plates, park passes available Society (SCHS) exhibit explores the It is hard to believe that fall has arrived! The Veterans Service Office has started many tourist spots that have attracted planning for our annual Thank a Veteran Lunch, one way we show how much visitors over the years, including Scott County employees appreciate the service and sacrifice of our resident veter- the resorts at Prior Lake, Mudbaden ans. The lunch will be held on Nov. 7 from 11:30 to 1:30 in the Law Enforcement Sulphur Springs, the Renaissance Center (located at 301 Fuller St. S. in Shakopee, directly across the street from the Festival, Canterbury Park, Mystic Government Center). This dinner is for veterans who reside in Scott County. Lake, Valleyfair, Elko Speedway, Specialized veterans license plates are available from the Minnesota Depart- and more! See amazing photos and ment of Vehicle Services. These specialized plates are available for all periods of artifacts, and share your favorite war, combat wounded, Silver/Bronze Star, Pearl Harbor survivor, VFW/American memories of these fun places! Exhibit Legion/DAV members, and woman veterans, along with a few others. The Women open until August 2018. Veterans plate is the newest addition to the selection, authorized in 2015. The fee Halloween Kids Kraft, Saturday, for these plates is a $10 plate fee and a $10 filing fee. If you are interested, you Oct. 28, 10:30 - 11:15 a.m. For ages can apply online at the Minnesota Driver’s & Vehicle Service (DVS) site or at your 2-8. Enjoy a fun morning of stories local license center. and crafts at the SCHS! We’re reading Disabled veterans in Minnesota can take advantage of a few relatively unknown Scary, Scary Halloween by Eve benefits: An annual Minnesota State Parks pass is available at no cost. Public Bunting and There Was an Old Mummy transportation -- including buses, light rail, and the Northstar train system -- can Who Swallowed a Spider by Jennifer be ridden at no charge as long as it is a fixed route. Any Minnesota veteran whom Ward, and making our own spooky the Veterans Administration has rated at 10 percent or more disabled for any condi- paper plate spiders to take home! tion is eligible. You can show your VA Medical ID card (it must specify “service- Halloween costumes are encouraged! connected” under the photo) or the VA summary of benefits letter that typically is Free, but registration required for mailed in May or early June each year. Veterans can also use the ID or letter to gain supplies. To register, go to http://bit. access to National Parks and Monuments at no cost. ly/2tseBXz. WWI Knitting Circle, Thursday, Nov. 2, 6:30 – 8 p.m. Learn about the importance of knitting during WWI, and take part in a knitting circle! We will work on making scarves to donate to local veterans and service members. Coffee and apple cider will be served. The Great War in Scott County Free, but advance registration required. -- This exhibit marks the 100th Register by Monday, Oct. 30. To anniversary of America’s entry into register, go to http://bit.ly/2uqAPxD. World War I. Explore the war’s impact on Scott County through the stories of those who served abroad and those who aided the effort from home. Exhibit open through March 2018.
The annual “Thank a Veteran Lunch” hosted by the Scott County employees Pedaling the Past Bike Tour, at the Law Enforcement Center in Shakopee attracted several hundred people Saturday, Oct. 14, 10 a.m. – 12 noon. last year. This year’s luncheon is on Nov. 7 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30p.m. Join us for a one-of-a-kind guided bike tour! We’ll travel along the Minnesota WWI Thanksgiving Talk and Valley State Tasting, Thursday, Nov. 16, 6:30 Trail in – 8 p.m. Learn what Thanksgiving Shakopee and celebrations were like during WWI explore how -- a time of food rationing -- and taste the rich natural some WWI-era recipes. Program landscape of includes a presentation and tasting, this area has supported its inhabitants and participants receive recipes to take for hundreds of years. The tour lasts home. Cost to attend this program is approximately two hours and covers $10 per adult; $7 per CHS member. about six miles total. Participants Participants must register by Monday, must bring their own bikes and must Nov. 13. To register, go to http://bit. wear helmets (no exceptions!). This ly/2uqtzlk. tour is open to participants ages 12 and up; participants under age 18 Thanksgiving Kids Kraft, Saturday, must be accompanied by an adult. Nov. 18, 10:30 - 11:15 a.m. For ages Participation is $5 per person. Advance 2-8. We’re celebrating Thanksgiving registration is required; must register with stories and a fun turkey craft! by Wednesday, Oct. 11. To register, go Free, but registration required for to http://bit.ly/2vpahtS. supplies. To register, go to http://bit. Suspect maltreatment of a ly/2ts9gja. All Things Minnesota Book Club, Thursday, Oct. 19 and Thursday, Holiday Open House, Saturday, Dec. vulnerable adult? Report it Nov. 16, 3 – 5 p.m. The All Things 2, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. For all ages! Visit Minnesota now has a Minnesota Book Club meets monthly Santa and enjoy cookies and cocoa in at the SCHS, and new members always the 1908 Stans House – decorated for a new central system for welcome! The October book selection 1920s Christmas. Make a holiday craft reporting suspected is The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by to take home and roast marshmallows Gabrielle Zevin and the November in the Museum Garden. Free! maltreatment of book selection is Grace of Silence by vulnerable adults, Michele Norris. Free (SCHS requests The Scott County Historical Society that book club members become will be closed on Saturday, Nov. 11 for available Historical Society members). Veterans Day and Nov. 23 - 25 for the 24 hours a day, Thanksgiving holiday. Scott County Crazy Quilters, seven days a week. Thursday, Oct. 26, 6 - 8 p.m. Come Check us out at www.facebook.com/ and join us as we stitch! Learn how to SCHSHistory and follow us on Twitter crazy quilt or bring any hand-stitching @ScottCountyHist. Call (952) 445- If you suspect a vulnerable adult is project to work on 0378, email info@scottcountyhistory. being mistreated, call (844) 880-1574 (quilting, cross- org, or visit www.scottcountyhistory. stitch, knitting, et org for more information. Scott County any time, toll free. cetera). Lots of Historical Society is located at 235 free fabric, trims, Fuller St. S., Shakopee. Find Scott County’s home page at www.scottcountymn.gov October/November 2017 Scott County SCENE Page 15 Historical SCENE Settlers brought their own music to County By Kimie Gammon 1880s and 1890s. The Opera House and SCHS Children’s Programs Intern dance hall were two vibrant places with Music is a passion shared by people live music, plays, dances, and musicals. across the globe. It connects us to each The Opera House was completed in other, and to people from the past. Music 1883 with much of the interior designed was a prominent part of Scott County’s and painted by local artist John Kodyl- beginnings, especially when cities were ek. Grand opening night was a big event just starting up. Music reminded the with a performance of “Macbeth” put on settlers of home and of their families. by local actors. Antonin Philipp was one of the first In the 1890s, bands would play on people to settle in New Prague in the the weekends and the community would 1850s. After Philipp began his home- be drawn in to listen to the beautiful mu- stead, many new Czech families trav- sic. An excerpt from the book The Sha- eled and settled in near him and New kopee Story paints an elegant picture: Prague started growing. A new public “...bands throughout Minnesota and school was built in 1884 because their elsewhere played Sunday afternoons in community was experiencing so much ornate bandstands. The popular strains growth. Of course, music was interlaced The New Prague Opera House was built in 1887. Dances, concerts, speakers, of the ‘Sidewalks of New York’ and into the culture of New Prague as well.1 and community meetings were held there, some in the Czech language. ‘On the Banks of the Wabash’ floated A news article in the New Prague Music was a social gathering for peo- leiden Orchestra. J.J. Kovarik directed through the sunlit trees. Ladies in stiff Times from 1927 reflected on the first ple not only in New Prague, but through- the New Prague Orchestra in 1900, shirtwaists with long starched skirts settlers and on J. W. Komarek, a promi- out Scott County. Young people from all along with directing the music at St. discreetly revealing trim ankles tightly nent figure in New Prague. Komarek over would go to dances, polkas, and Wenceslaus Catholic Church and their encased in polished high button shoes, first came to New Prague as a child in concerts in the 1870s and 1880s. This school.3 Music ran in Kovarik’s family joined with their mustachioed escorts in 1877, and later moved to Minneapolis was a time for them to celebrate com- because his son, Joseph Kovarik, was a singing…”6 as a young adult to pursue his passion munity and share their cultural and mu- violinist in the New York Philharmonic Music brought people together and of music. He played in an orchestra and sical backgrounds, something which Orchestra and assistant to renowned was a source of community. Not only was proficient in many different instru- seemed especially important to immi- Czech composer Antonin Dvorak dur- was it a shared pastime, it reminded peo- ments, including trombone, string bass, grant families. The New Prague Opera ing his stay in America in 1893.4 ple of where they came from and their and the cornet. Komarek eventually re- House was built in 1887, and it became Music could also be heard float- roots in the Old Country. Music started turned to New Prague, and it was there the “… social and cultural center of [the ing up from the steamboats that came out as a way for people to connect with in 1892 that he opened his own paint town]”. Dances, concerts, speakers, and through Belle Plaine. An article from their own heritage, but it became a new shop, a career that seems completely community meetings were held there, 1954 in the Belle Plaine Herald titled part of the shared culture of Scott Coun- different from his time with the orches- some in the Czech language. Then later “Steamboat Days in Old Belle Plaine” ty. Music connected people in ways that tra. Even after starting his own business, in 1919, the Park Ballroom in Memo- describes the feeling of seeing the large many other things cannot; across gen- Komarek still felt the pull of music, so rial Park became another center for mu- steamboats come through and hear- erations and between countries, and it he put together a Bohemian brass band sic and community. The Park Ballroom ing the brass bands play: “One of the allows people to maintain their culture and orchestra. The brass band was called hosted musicians such as Conway Twit- thrilling sights in the early steamboat and heritage. the New Prague Cornet Band, members ty, Lawrence Welk, Chubby Checker, days was to see a large packet come in To learn more about the history of included Rudolf Kamis, Tom Ceoka, Whoopee John, Elmer Scheid, Frankie with a brass band playing on the upper music and culture in Scott County, visit Albert Cecka, Alex Jelinek, and Mike Yankovic, and other local bands. deck. This would bring out a large part the Scott County Historical Society Kallal among others. Later Komarek Brass bands were a big part of the of the populace and people would line and museum, located in Shakopee, one directed the high school orchestra. His culture in the beginnings of Scott Coun- up along the levee to wait until the boat block north of the county courthouse on final achievement was serving as mayor ty. Bands traveled and toured around left again when, as the boat pulled out, Fuller Street. Or visit online at www. of New Prague, one that the people lov- the different towns, playing polkas and the band would start playing again.”5 scottcountyhistory.org. ingly called the “smiling mayor.”2 waltzes for a variety of parties, wed- The music drew people in and brought dings, dances, and funerals. Some New them joy. Seeing brass bands play on the (Endnotes) Prague-based bands that popped up dur- boats was a vivid memory that was hard 1 Patrick Smith, City of New Prague ing this time were the Smisek Band, Sery to forget. Historic Context Study (Dec, 2013) in New Band, Vondra Band, Kaisersott Band, Prague: An Environmental History (2015), Rynda Band, Lanesburg Band, Union In Shakopee, music and plays were Prepared by Kathryn D. Cravens. Hill Band, Komarek Band, and the Da- a large part of the social scene in the 2 “First settlers came seventy- three years ago with oxen team,” The New Prague Times, vol. xxxviii, 3/31/1927. 3 Dennis Dvorak, Reconnaissance Survey of Downtown New Prague (June 2014-March 2015), 13-16, in New Prague: An Environmental History (2015), Prepared by Kathryn D. Cravens. 4 “Kovarik, Josef Jan (1870 - 1951),” http://www.antonin-dvorak.cz/en/kovarik. Accessed 8/23/2017. 5 J.E. Townsend, “Steamboat Days in Old Belle Plaine,” Belle Plaine Herald, 5/13/1954. 6 Julius A. Coller II, The Shakopee “Lewis Street Bridge Dedication” from SCHS photo records Story (1960), 138-210 A gathering of people watched a steamboat travel towards the Lewis Street Mayor J.W. Komarek Bridge on the Minnesota River. Brass bands often played on the boats. Want more information about Scott County? Visit www.scottcountymn.gov/list.aspx to sign up for e-mail and/or text message alerts on everything from County Board and Planning Advisory Commission agendas and minutes to road and transit updates, bid postings, emergency alerts, and much more! NOTIFY ME Page 16 Scott County SCENE October/November 2017 Find Scott County’s home page at www.scottcountymn.gov After rain has gone, how much soil went with it? In the news and in our own fields, forget the impacts of low residue cover, gardens, and yards, we’ve seen unusual farming up and down hills, and aggres- weather patterns in recent years, and this sive tillage on fields that have a signifi- year has proven to be the worst: Very cant slope. Erosion is a serious problem wet, cool periods, to be followed up by for productive agricultural land and for weeks or months of hot, dry weather. water quality concerns. Controlling the The problem of too little or too much sediment must be an integral part of any rainwater seems to be a much discussed soil management system to improve wa- topic among farmers, gardeners, and ter and soil quality. people in general, and some are starting The most effective way to control to think this is beginning to be the norm. erosion is to maintain a permanent sur- Maybe that is a question we should ask face cover on the soil surface, such as ourselves. pasture or meadow. This is usually not Soil deterioration and low water ideal for most farmers, but plant residue quality due to erosion and surface runoff management is another way of control- are issues the Natural Resources Con- ling soil erosion by intercepting rain- servation Service (NRCS) has addressed drops (thereby reducing surface runoff over the years, but it is important not to and protecting soil surface particle de- tachment by raindrop impact). Crop res- idue can provide an excellent soil cover after harvest, improve soil water intake Landowners need to be aware that if they are not following an approved by preventing soil surface sealing, and conservation system on their land, they could lose federal program benefits. consequently reduce surface runoff. this after each rainfall. Although the last purposes and objectives of the Highly Equally important in minimizing soil few years have produced some record Erodible Land Conservation (HELC) erosion is the adoption of a cropping rainfall numbers, some areas of erosion and Wetland Conservation (WC) pro- system along with conservation tillage could have been prevented and/or would visions. Specifically, the goals of the practices such as no-till, strip-till, and have been less severe. Overall, there’s HELC provisions are to reduce or pre- ridge-till. The degree of effectiveness still a need for some changes and NRCS vent excessive soil erosion. “To remain of different tillage practices depends on is taking notice. “Most farmers aren’t in compliance with Highly Erodible the degree of soil manipulation, which aware that what they’re doing -- or not Land Conservation (HELC) provisions, effects the residue distribution on the doing -- can jeopardize their program farmers should be aware that if they are soil surface. benefits,” says Katundra Shears, District not following an approved conservation This may all seem simple, but there Conservationist with NRCS. system on their land, they could lose are still some cases where residue lev- NRCS is not a regulatory agency, program benefits,” says Katundra. To Erosion is a serious problem for els are low and tillage is still being done but it is responsible for making sure make sure you are in compliance with productive agricultural land and for on slopes of five percent or more. More farmers that are USDA program par- USDA program provisions, contact the water quality. and more, we’re seeing the effects of ticipants remain in compliance with the NRCS at (952) 442-2106. SWCD can help with buffers The first deadline of the Minnesota Buffer Law is vation program which can help cover the cost of the fast approaching, and some landowners are still unsure buffer. There are multiple ways to come into compli- of the route they will take to comply. Landowners are ance with the buffer law, and it is a matter of figuring required to have a 50-foot buffer of perennial vegeta- out what makes the most sense in each individual case. tion next to public waters by Nov. 1, 2017, and a 16.5- foot buffer next to public ditches by Nov.1, 2018. Landowners can come into the Scott Soil and Water Conservation District office in Jordan to sign up for But, like many things, it is not quite so simple. financial assistance programs, for help in determining Landowners can also come into compliance by imple- exactly where a buffer is required, or to review alterna- menting alternative practices that provide comparable tive practice options. The Scott SWCD is also avail- Landowners are required to have a 50-foot buffer water quality benefits or enroll the area into a conser- able to answer any buffer questions at (952) 492-5425. of perennial vegetation next to public waters by Nov. 1.