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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2020 EDITION 217 SEPT_DEC■ City of Brooklyn Center •4� N F:IAIC% (iCelebrating the news events & cultures that connect us In This Issue Covid-19 Free Cloth Masks for Residents 2 Free Meal Bags 2 Community Food Collective 2 Transit Center Public Art Initiative 3 Neighborhood Innovation Grant 5 Disposable Masks for Businesses 5 Internet Solutions with Comcast 6 Community Engagement Commission Openings 10 New Public Art & Teen Engagement 11 Fire Safety Distance Learning 12 Public Works Winter Safety 13 Annual SWPPP Meeting 14 2020 Equipment Purchases/Sales 15 Preventing Frozen Pipes 16 Spring Curbside Clean-up 17 Parks and Recreation 18 R O O K 4 Y CENfiER ,,.AT THE CENTER September -December 2020, Edition 217 November 3, 2020 Election On November 3 Brooklyn Center residents went to their polling place to cast the ballot for many races including two City Council seats, President/ Vice President, U.S. Senator, U.S. Representative, State Senator, State Representative, Hennepin County Commissioner, several school district board seats and several judges. There was a total of 14,036 votes cast in the election which is 7970 of registered voters. This is the fourth highest turnout since 1980. Of the 79%, absentee/early voting was 66%, which is record shattering. The top two vote getters were Marquita Butler and Kris Lawrence - Anderson with 5,217 and 5,162 votes respectively. All election results were certified at the November 13 Election Canvassing Board meeting. VOTER TURNOUT The results for the two city council seats were: Alfreda Daniels 4,432 Sizi G Goyah 3,032 Write in 157 Parking Restriction Reminder 3 In the case a Snow Event of 2'/z inches or more is declared, parking restrictions will take effect. 7 r Vam This means there should be no on -street parking until the roads are plowed curb to curb. Vehicles Wnot removed are subject to issuance of a citation as well as towing to allow for snow plowing. For more Snow and Ice Control information, visit: cityofbrooklyncenter.org or sign up for alerts at cityofbrooklyncenter.org/notifyme. Even after streets are plowed, no parking is allowed on any City street between 2:00 and 6:00 am or for more than 6 consecutive hours at any other time. 14 Free Cloth Masks for BC Residents Available for Pick -Up For a limited time, cloth masks will be available free to Brooklyn Center residents. Cloth masks are available at CEAP, CAPI, WAFSC, the Community Center, the front lobby of the police and west fire stations (please call ahead for hours of operation). The Brooklyn Center Fire Department non -emergency line 763-549-3600 is also available to answer any questions. \/ ® EVERY MEAL FREE MEAL BAGS AVAILABLE Providing kids with wholesome food is our focus, and theirgrowth and achievement is at the heart of everything we do. WHAT: 4-5 pounds of nutritious, non-perishable food including a variety of fruits, vegetables, proteins, grains, and entrees. WHERE: Brooklyn Center West Fire Station 6250 Brooklyn Blvd. F Brooklyn Center, MN 55429 HOW: Simply grab a bag from the table in the front entrance vestibule. Available daily 10:00am - 8:00pm • Free for all families • No qualification requirements • No contact information collected For more information please visit: www.everymeal.org/winter T Community Food Collective With the pandemic impacting employment, food shelves have experienced unprecedented demand for their services. The need continues and is expected to grow through the winter. Food shelves are bracing for an influx of people looking for help with putting food on the table, with an increase of people using these service for the first time. Even before the pandemic, large swaths of Brooklyn Center lay in food deserts as identified by the US Federal Department of Agriculture. With this understanding, the City of Brooklyn Center is starting the Community Food Collective, a program to help the residents of Brooklyn Center have increasing options in access to healthy, locally grown food along with providing other community benefits that come with more healthy sustainable living. Looking towards the spring, the City is in the process of building a Deep Winter Green House which will allow for year-round growing of healthy food options. The Greenhouse also will be the main hub for City's healthy sustainable living programming, a new focus of the Community and Recreation Services Department. The greenhouse will provide opportunities for outreach and education. Residents will have options to volunteer; working within the greenhouse to help put food on their tables and the tables of their neighbors. Residents will be able to learn about growing and preparing healthy foods. Produce from the greenhouse will be available for residents, similar to a CSA. As this program begins to take root, the City is looking for input from residents. If you are interested in finding out more about the CFC, providing feedback and input or just looking to get your hands dirty with a new volunteer option, contact the City at greenhouse@ci.brooklyn-center.mn.us. There you can leave input/feedback, ask questions, and get on a mailing list for CFC updates. 4 Call for Artwork: Brooklyn Center Transit Center Public �''"""'"�~� rV/�\i/ram//► Art Initiative The City of Brooklyn Center aims to utilize Public Art as a way to connect residents and to promote a sense of community during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Brooklyn Center Transit i 'a Center Public Art Initiative assembled. fo i artists and professionals from around the 1 i Brooklyn Center and greater metro area to provide free online digital artist workshops in October, as well as Public Art pieces to be displayed ` 'r at the soon -to -be newly renovated BCTC station in the spring of 2021. /r Community members that participated in the Artist Workshops had opportunities to not only learn a skill to apply to their own art, but they also had direct influence on the final pieces that will be on display at the i BCTC through engagement activities presented by the lead artists. In addition to the pieces created by the professional artists Kao Lee Thao and Anika Schneider, community members are invited to enter their own 4 pieces of art to be displayed at the BCTC as well. Please contact Coordinator Chloe Cotherman by email with questions and to receive a link to register your work. �, k CONTACT:,` I Coordinator- Chloe Cotherman chloe.cotherman@gmail.com��°� Artist Kao Lee Thao innerswirl.com� Artist- Anika Schneider mnartists.org/anika-schneider - -- Are You In Need of Food ? ` �• The West African Family & Community Services Food Shelf -, is open to all Brooklyn Center residents during COVID-19. i' The food shelf focuses on culturally specific food for r West Africans and all others. Please stop b our Y to make Y selections of foods. 0 The food shelf practices social distancing while customers r = select goods on site. Location: 7200 Brooklyn Blvd - - Brooklyn Center, MN 55429 Open: Monday — Friday ' ,� . 9:00am — 5:00pm ko READ MORE WAIT LESS P)QLan�°O Brookdale Library is open to the public for short in -person visits. Library staff will be on -site to provide additional assistance to help make your visit successful. All visitors to Hennepin County buildings are required to wear face coverings. Please visit tinyurl.com/HCLcovid for more info and to prepare for your visit. Please note that meeting rooms, study rooms, children's play areas, and lounges will not be available for use at this time. More information about current services will be added to hclib.org/about/closure-faq as it becomes available. Services include: Retrieving holds Limited browsing of materials Checking out items Computer use Browsing languages Quick reference support ' Returning library materials eBooks SERVICES AVAILABLE UNEMPLOYMENT JOB For help in applying for SEARCH/TRAINING unemployment insurance, contact one of the following CNA, Hand Soldering staff members: Mameneh George Ruth Torres - (Spanish) 612.767.3695 612.767.3673 PCA, Manufacturing John Stoltz - (English) Shaneaka Younger 612.767.3663 612.767.3669 Victor Yang - (Hmong) 612.767.9517 Ale -xi Kleinschmidt - (English) 612.767.7814 FINANCIAL COACHING Ruth Torres 612.767.3673 Career Pathways Navigator Chris Xiong 612.767.3674 UPCOMING TRAINING: FREE CNA Training Courses coming up this August for our Southeast Asian Community. Contact Chris Xiong for more details! FREE FRESH PRODUCE DISTRIBUTION Fresh produce is available at CAPI's office in Brooklyn Center the following days: July 24, August 14, August 28, September 11, September 25, and October 9. Arrive at 12:30 for check -in and to receive a number. Distribution begins at 1 pm and ends at 3 pm. MNSURE FOOD SHELF INSURANCE Hours: Tues -- 1 pm - 4 pm To apply for MNSure, contact: Wed --9am-4pin Thurs -- 9 am - 4 pm Ellen Baboila 612.767.3671 Location: CAPI IOC 5930 Brooklyn Blvd. Brooklyn Center, MN 55429 CENSUS/VOTER Food Shelf Coordinator REGISTRATION Chue Vang 612.767.3686 For help with filling out the census or to get registered to vote, contact: BENEFITS Victor Yang ENROLLMENT 612.767.9517 To enroll in SNAP/NAPS, Medicaid, and more, contact: ��� CAP I Souwan Thao oO 612.261.2834 guiding self-determination & social equality �4 0 Coming in 2021 Neighborhood Innovation Grants Due to the coronavirus pandemic, Neighborhood Innovation Grants were established to assist with the challenges individuals, neighborhood groups, and/or nonprofit organization operating in Brooklyn Center were experiencing. The needs include but not limited to: high-speed internet and technology, emotional health and wellbeing, communication of health and safety resources available to residents, and job creation. Often, the best ideas and solutions come from those within community. These grants are to fund problem -solving projects to assist in neighborhood improvement and beyond, through skill investment. Eligible expenses include the following. • Emotional health and well-being • Community led education opportunities • Beautification (Including various art) • Crime prevention (Neighborhood Watch Groups) • Clean up of parks and neighborhoods • Election information, voter registration • Communication of health and safety resources available to residents ,' CARES I to"� ACT , Applications will be available in the beginning of 2021. Individual Family and Community Services, True Four grant requests are up to $750. Continue to visit our website for Church, and Empire Smile. updates. Free Disposable Masks Distributed to Businesses eceive e. This West. which sks on * To qualify you must be a Brooklyn Center resident and fill out our city application. Then follow these Comcast qualifications to receive a code. Apply today if you: CVJO Be a resident of Brooklyn Center. © Qualify for programs like the National School Lunch Program, housing assistance, Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, and others. Step 1: Qualify © Live in an area where Comcast Internet service is available. OHave not had Comcast Internet in the last 90 days. Step 2: Apply Step 3: Get Approved Please provide applicants name, service address, and check boxes with a yes/no to all the qualifying material. Step 3: Get Online Completed applications should be returned to the Utility Bill E6drop box outside City Hall (6301 Shingle Creek Pkwy) or e-mail to center.mn.us. For questions please call (763)569-3300. If approved, you could have a home Internet connection in 5-7 business days. Use the step-by- step guide included with your Internet equipment (which includes a modem and WiFi router) to set up your service. I EWS 6 �0 September / December 2020, Edition 217 i me r n et >> City Partnering with a o o K the City of essentials Brookyn �TNECENCENTER TERFROM COMCAST Application Center Brooklyn Center is providing promo codes for a year of Comcast Essentials Internet to those who are in need due to the COVID-19 pandemic. * To qualify you must be a Brooklyn Center resident and fill out our city application. Applicants name: Address: (where services will be used) Phone/Email: (Perferred method of contact) Check all boxes that apply: F-1 Be a Brooklyn Center resident F-1 Qualify for programs like the National School Lunch Program, housing assistance, Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, and others F-1 Live in an area where Comcast Internet service is available F-1 Have not had Comcast Internet in the last 90 days Completed applications should be returned to the Utility Bill drop box outside City Hall (6301 Shingle Creek Pkwy) or email to internetessentials@ci.brooklyn-center.mn.us Any questions call City Hall @ (763)569-3300 If the city deems you qualified to receive a code for the internet program, it does not guarantee you are automatically qualified for the Comcast Essentials Internet Program (www.internetessentials.com) Due to the Coronavirus emergency, households with outstanding debt that is less than one year old may be eligible for Internet Essentials. We are waiving this qualification if you apply and are approved by 12/31 /20. After 12/31 /20, standard eligibility rules apply. I MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES SERVICIOS DE SALUD MENTAL MEDICAL SERVICES SERVICIOS MEDICOS IRDENTAL SERVICES SERVICIOS DENTALES OEYE EXAMS AND GLASSES EXAMENES DE VISTA Y LENTES SEXUAL HEALTH SERVICES AND EDUCATION SERVICIOS EN CASOS DE VIOLENCIA SEXUAL Y APOYO PARA RELACIONES INTERPERSONALES ASSISTANCE WITH HEALTH INSURANCE APPLICATIONS O== AYUDA PARA LLENAR FORMULARIOS PARA ASEGURANZA DE SALUD SEXUAL VIOLENCE AND RELATIONSHIP SUPPORT SERVICIOS Y EDUCACION EN SALUD SEXUAL CHEMICAL HEALTH SCREENINGS ANALISIS QUIMICOS our services are made possible through our generous sponsors: Park Nicollet Foundation, the United Way, and our community partners. Brooklyn Center Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, gender identity and expression, disability, age or status in regards to public assistance in its programs and activities and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. _MM Brooklyn Center Community Schools Hosts CARES Pack Distribution in Response to Covid-19 City of Brooklyn Center employees collaborated with Brooklyn Center Community Schools staff Monday, November 30-Tuesday, December 1 to distribute CARES Packs filled with COVID-19 self -care health items and distance learning materials for families and youth at Brooklyn Center High School. Residents of Brooklyn Center and Brooklyn Park were able to register for a CARES Pack and select between four locations throughout the Brooklyns to collect the items. <- The event was an initiative carried out through a partnership between the City of Brooklyn Center, Brooklyn Bridge Alliance for Youth, the City of Brooklyn Park, Brooklyn Center and Osseo Schools, North Hennepin Community College, µ f and Hennepin Technical College in response to the needs of the community is due to COVID-19. To stay up-to-date on future events hosted by these partners Nam. and services they may provide, please visit their website for more information. School District 4171-07 Nompeng Academy serving grades K-2 I Noble Academy serving grades 3-8 If you want a rigorous and relevant K-8 education with proven results that meet your child's individual needs, then our schools are the ones for you! Both Schools Offer: • Robust Academic Programs • State of the Art Technology • Hmong Language, Culture and Literacy NOW ENROLLING GRADES K-8 FREE Transportation 763.592.7706 1 www.nobleacademy.us Email: enrollment@nobleacademy.us nobleacademy.us It --- gee /U1r[G11 NOMPENG ACADEMY - __ _ -__ NIbBLE i ACADEMY Empowering Today, Leaders Tomorrow 9477 Decatur Drive North Brooklyn Park, MN 55445 Grades 3-8 NOMPENG ACADEMY .a .Vabl, d.dC &boot Empowering Today,�� �•� Leaders Tomorrow 1.1 Noble Avenue North Brooklyn Center, MN 55429 K-2 ' Node Academy Dxomi Drive N blJ 93rd A- N D Brooklyn Park 11moklyn Confer 4dA.N '.r..._�f. NA6M Nompeng Academy 610 U,1111 EN TO ANTirwasT .i 1t North Hennepin Community College partnered with the City to facilitate a conversation about the book "How to be an Anti -Racist." Participants included staff and Council members. D NAXIONAL BANK Welcome to BC: Old National Bank ribbon cutting ceremony Thursday July 30. Andrew's Wine Cellar Applejack Wine & Spirits Argonaut Wine and Liquor Bacchus Wines Clay, NY Englewood, CO npnvBr. rn Millhrae. CA Banks Wine & Soiritz \ Millville, OE ,ay Ridge Wine & Spirits Annapoua, BC Liouor Brooklyn Center, MN I inuor Ahc. .t:n, MD Commission Openings ;� I The City of Brooklyn Center is looking CEN=R for Brooklyn Center residents to serve AT THE CENTER on the following commissions: • Financial (4 vacancies) The Financial Commission assists the City Council in evaluating and developing fiscal policies, fiscal procedures, Mayor and Council Member total compensation, budgetary and capital matters, and such other issues as may be assigned to the Commission by the City Council or referred to it by the City Manager. Commissioners serve a three-year term. The Commission is composed of a Chairperson and six members. • Housing (6 vacancies) The general purpose of the Commission is to afford citizen input in the development of a housing program to supplement the activities of the City Council. Commissioners serve a three-year term. The Commission is composed of a Chairperson and six members. • Park & Recreation (7 vacancies) The general purpose of the Commission is to act in an advisory capacity to the City Council on issues related to the conservation of environmental resources in the City of Brooklyn Center and to the park system and recreation programs, and to advise the City Council of citizen attitudes and policy matters relevant to the conservation, park and recreation functions in Brooklyn Center. If you are interested in serving in one of the commissions, please contact the city clerk at cityclerk@ci.brooklyn-center. mn.us or call 763-569-3306. BC Liquors Makes Top 100 The Top 100 Retailers awards was launched in 2019 to recognize the best off -premise stores in the country. Winners submitted a detailed entry form, which included more than 50 questions about company size, marketing efforts, training programs, com- munity outreach and growth plans. 100 retailers were chosen by the Beverage Dynamics editorial team as the best of the best, and BC Liquors was officially named as a winner2020. Census 2020 Bulb Craft Encourages Family Time at Home for the Holidays we wrapped up census activities, City employees hosted two drive-thru events at City Hall. Employees distributed Census 2020 light bulb craft packets to participants. The October Halloween craft packet featured a witch and a Frankenstein bulb ornament. The December Holidays craft saw the appearance of none other than the Grinch himself along with what has been rumored to be Frosty the snowman, but the jury is still out on that one. More to come as that story unfolds. jnt4ww The Recreation Department hosted a drive-thru winter event, Snow Many Traditions. The event featured storyboards created by community members displaying their winter traditions for participants to view along the driving route. The event was a success with about 50 cars and 150 people driving through, and all participants received treats, winter crafts, and could view and learn more about the city's new mobile health unit. All participants also had the opportunity to get a free professional photo taken from the safety of their vehicle. Snow Many Traditions took place Sunday, December 6, from 2-5 pm. The event was free for all ages, and no registration was required. New Public Art and Teen Engagement Brooklyn Center Youth Alex, Kimberly, Joana, and Donnie teamed up with Juxtaposition Arts to build We Grow Together, a temporary public art installation on the corner of Bass Lake Road and Shingle Creek Parkway. This art project is the beginning of a community engagement process for a new entrepreneurial incubator and apartment building project planned near the installation; more community engagement will happen throughout the winter and spring (please check back at BecomingBrooklynCenter.com throughout this time). We Grow Together is a temporary installation celebrating the people of Brooklyn Center's diverse, vibrant characters as well as their interconnected, interdependent roots. The installation was designed to be interactive: each tree poses a question like 'If you started a small business, what would it be?' and 'What was something hard that happened to you this year?'. Visitors can answer the questions by writing on ribbons provided on site, which will be added to the installation weekly. The ribbons are then tied to the trees. Brooklyn Center Recreation Hosts Socially Distant Drive-Thru Halloween Event The Recreation Department hosted the first ever Halloween Drive-Thru Boo on October 29 from 5-7 pm. There was a great turnout with 98 cars and 225 people in attendance. Thanks to all who participated. ■ Fire Department Provides Brooklyn Center Community Schools with Fire Safety Distance Learning Lesson Plan Due to COVID-19, the Fire Department adjusted their typical delivery method of fire prevention to the schools in Brooklyn Center. They teamed with CCX and one small community daycare group to film a fire prevention video that was recorded and distributed to school teachers. Teachers can use the video and some educational tools provided as a virtual distance learning lesson plan. You can view the video at: https://ccxmedia.org/cities/brooklyn-center-fire- department-safety-demonstration-for-children/ SAFETY DEMONSTRATION FOR CHILDREN OOOO 8:33 AM I Sunday, October 18, 2020 BCPD Great Pumpkin Giveaway! The Brooklyn Center Police Department hosted The Great Pumpkin Giveaway on Wednesday, October 14 from 3 - 6pm. Sponsored by Dehn's Pumpkin Patch LLC. This event was a great success! Any left over pumpkins were donated to local schools and church programs. Thank you to all involved. Yard Waste Site Closed November 30 The Maple Grove Yardwaste Site closed for the year on November 30. The site is located at 10300 Maple Grove Parkway. For information for 2021 visit mgyardwaste.com or call HRG at 763- 493-8006. Let it Snow — But Help Us Keep the Street Clear and Safe The City of Brooklyn Center typically receives high marks for snow clearing activities. Cooperation of residents and businesses is key to the timely and safe clearing of streets and sidewalks. Street snow removal operations typically begin when there is more than 2.5 inches of snowfall or if other conditions warrant plowing. Sidewalk snow removal begins with one -inch or more of snowfall. Crews begin plowing as soon as the storm subsides. j The City streets are divided into ten districts with plows assigned to each district. The arterial streets will be cleared firstfollowed bythe residential streets. The snow plow must unk- make several passes up and down the street to remove the snow: two to clear the center and two or more to widen the street from gutter to gutter. Because plowing routes are long, it may be one hour or more between the clearing pass and the final widening pass. Please keep all cars out of the street until the plow has finished plowing both sides of the roadway. We apologize in advance for plugged driveways, which are unavoidable side effects of well -plowed streets and sidewalks. To reduce the frustration of shoveling out the end of your driveway twice, we suggest you wait until the street is plowed to its full width. Please do not place the snow from the end of your driveway back into the street. Please help keep fire hydrants clear of snow. In the event of a fire, valuable time may be lost if the Fire Department has to locate or remove snow from a hydrant. Safe Winter Driving — Tips to Keep You Safe If you must drive in snowy and icy road conditions, be sure to allow extra time for travel. The following safe driving techniques will help you safely arrive at your destination: • Check local news for weather and traffic reports and watch electronic highway signs for up-to-date information. Watch for icy surfaces on bridges, even when the rest of the road seems to be in good condition. Bridge decks tend to ice up first. ``31® • Clear snow and ice from all windows, lights and even the hood and roof before driving. • Drive with your headlights on. • Drive slower than the posted speed limits, which are speeds intended for dry pavement. Maintain control of your vehicle and don't use cruise control which automatically accelerates at times. • Look farther ahead in traffic. Leave plenty of room between you and the vehicle in front of you, including snow plows. Stay back at least 10 car lengths (200-feet) and don't pass on the right. Please remind your children not to build snow forts or play in the snow • Don't pump anti -lock brakes if your car is piles made by the plows. The plow operators often cannot see children in equipped with anti -lock brakes. The right way the snow banks and they could be buried in the snow or seriously hurt. is to "stomp and steer." The City will repair or replace properly installed mailboxes that are damaged by direct contact with snow removal equipment. The City will not assume responsibility for damage simply caused from snow pressure or improper installation or maintenance. Also, in the spring City crews will repair any snow plow damage to your lawn that occurred by City plows over the winter. The boulevard area, generally 10-15 feet from the edge of the street, is reserved for snow storage and utilities. The City will not repair or replace items damaged in the boulevard during snowplowing operations. To report an unsafe icy road condition, please call the Public Works Maintenance Facility at 763-585-7100 Monday -Friday from 7:00 am to 3:30 pm. For after -hour emergencies, please call 911. • Use your blinkers and do not cut in front of large vehicles and trucks, which take longer to stop. • Don't get overconfident with four-wheel drive. Four-wheel drive helps you get going quicker but it won't help you stop any faster. • Concentrateon drivingand your surroundings. Put your phone down. Many drivers are nervous about driving in winter weather conditions. Being patient with other drivers will promote safer driving habits, as well as improve your mental health while driving. A Low Salt Diet for Shingle Creek Most of us who live and work in Brooklyn Center are familiar with Shingle Creek. It is an 11-mile long creek that winds through our City and many others throughout the area. It collects drainage from 43 square -miles in nine cities throughout Hennepin County. Shingle Creek has been designated as an Impaired Water by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and the Environmental Protection Agency because of high levels of chloride contamination. Most of the contamination comes from winter de-icing salt. Winter de-icing salt is used throughout the winter months to control ice buildup on roads, parking lots, sidewalks and driveways. About 85 percent of the chloride in Shingle Creek is estimated to come from the salt used to keep roads clear. The remaining amount of chloride comes from the salt used to keep parking lots, walkways, driveways and privatf roads clear. This de-icing adds up to a lot of salt being used in the community, much of which ends up in our lakes, streams and wetlands. Municipalities are required to manage the amount of salt used for snow and ice removal activities. Many organizations are also researching and investing in new technology and materials that allow less salt to be used without compromising public safety. You can help reduce chloride pollution by: • Shovel or plow first- Less snow build-up means less ice. • Only use salt when necessary and where needed- Such as on steep slopes or high traffic areas. Annual SWPPP Meeting Please join City staff to learn about the City's Storm Water Pollution Prevention Program on Thursday, January 21, 2021, at 6:00 p.m. The meeting will be online this year. The link for the meeting is below. In accordance with the General Permit for the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System/ State Disposal System Permit Program, City staff will present an overview of the City's program and report on the status of implementing storm water best management practices. Following the presentation, there will be an opportunity to ask questions and provide public comment. The Storm Water Pollution Prevention Program documents are available for public review in the Engineering Division at City Hall between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Use the link below to join the meeting: logis.webex.com/logis/J*.php?MTID= m9ca80fb5daaee6f9e9165359930dc561 Call in is 1-312-535-8110 Access Code: 133 834 3123 ^ongratulations PubliC Works! In April, Government Fleet Magazine recognized the top fleet services in the country. The top 50 are Leading Fleets. The next 50 are Notable Fleets. While Central Garage did not make the top 50 this time, they were very honored and proud to have been named a Notable Fleet and to be recognized as a top 100 fleet service provider in the country. There were only two Minnesota fleets recognized nationally, Dakota County and Brooklyn Center. • Use alternative products- Such as calcium magnesium acetate (CMA). The selection criteria was a rigorous set of • Read labels- Know what you are applying and the effects of exposure. questions regarding business plans, policies Some chemicals damage metal and concrete, kill lawns and harm pets. and procedures, shop technology, fleet size, • Temperature matters- Salt is less effective in low temperatures. When leadership, efficiency, vision, technical questions the temperature falls below 159F consider using sand as an alternative regarding service intervals, replacement to salt. schedules, and equipment ready rates. 2020 Equipment Purchases/Sale of Surplus Central Garage had a busy year for equipment purchases and sale of surplus equipment. Staff did a great job forecasting prices so we were easily able to stay under budget with our new purchases, and also sell off retired vehicles and equipment for much more than we projected by using the online auction site www.publicsurplus. com. This site is a very effective way to dispose of retired equipment and has been successful since we moved to it exclusively in early 2016. We also used Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist to advertise some of our auctions and that helped us maximize our resale of surplus equipment. Our 2020 equipment purchases include: Chevy 1500 4x4's — In April, staff ordered and took delivery of three new Chevy 1500 4x4 pickup trucks. They have replaced a Ford F-150 44 and a Ford F-150 2x4 as well as a Ford E250 Cargo Van. We paid a little more for the 44 up front but should get more value at resale time. We have held over the two surplus pickups for now and plan to sell them and the van this fall. Single Axle Plow Truck — Staff ordered a new single axle plow to replace our oldest plow truck in the fleet. The current Sterling chassis will be replaced by a Western Star chassis. This plow truck will be the city's second single axle plow with a rear wing. The purchase price of the chassis with snow equipment is $213,000. This chassis has been received and is waiting to be delivered to Towmaster to be outfitted with plow equipment. There is a long waiting line at Towmaster to have this plow built. Police Vehicles - Staff purchased four new marked squads (two gas, two hybrids), a CSO squad and a CSO F-150 Responder. The purchase price for the hybrids was $3,000 more at $34,000 as opposed to $31,000 for the gas model. According to all studies, the new hybrid should save around $3,500 a year in fuel costs. This would recover the extra cost for the vehicle over the course of one year. We received the 2019 hybrid squads late in the year last year so we did not have much time of operation prior to ordering new squads for 2020. Because of this, we decided to order two gasoline squads and two hybrid squads. The CSO squad purchased is also a hybrid. All vehicle builds were delayed due to the COVID 19 Pandemic. These vehicles would normally be in service by June. One police staff car was ordered. We ordered and took delivery of a Jeep Grand Cherokee keeping with the move of staff cars from mid -size cars to SUV's. Staff ordered two Ford Escapes and took delivery on one. We attempted to cancel one but the vehicle was already built at the factory. The dealership is working to sell the second unit so we are hopeful that we will not have to pay for and accept the other unit. One of the Escapes was a Community Development Department replacement vehicle. The second vehicle was supposed to be for an added inspector in the Department but budget cuts due to the COVID-19 pandemic prompted the City to seek cancellation of the purchase. Staff also delayed the purchase of a replacement F-350 dump box truck because it was determined that this vehicle has valuable life remaining and did not need to be replaced at this time. Fleet Addition in Preparation of the Winter Season New to the fleet- Central Garage took delivery of a 2020 single -axle plow truck. We have delayed this purchase until 2021. We also held off on the purchase of a Toro 72-inch mower and a Toro Workman that were due to be replaced in 2020. Our goal is to package these replacements with our pull behind paver that is due for replacement in 2022 to purchase a new ToolCat in 2021. This would utilize the replacement funds for all three vehicles to purchase one piece of equipment that will better fit our needs moving forward. Staff replaced our 2005 CAT Tractor Backhoe with a 2020 John Deere Tractor Backhoe. We were able to purchase the tractor, new buckets, packer, and stump grinder for under the budgeted amount of $155,000 including trading in of the old unit. We took delivery back in May and the staff really love the new unit. That concludes the equipment purchases and surplus disposal update. When all is said and done, with purchases and sales of old equipment, a total of $739,000 will be spent for new vehicles and equipment which is $17,000 under budget. What is a Service Line? The Service line connects from the City water main to the building/house. Every house/building in Brooklyn Center has a water meter. The water meters are located in crawl spaces, behind walls, in boxes and closets in basements. When meters are in confined spaces they are subject to freezing. Please locate your meter in ensure the space is heated and/or well ventilated. Look for Cold Drafts Check around your home for areas where water supply lines are in unheated areas and take measures to prevent the flow of cold air in these areas. Common locations include: basement, crawl space, attic, garage, under kitchen and bathroom cabinets. Don't forget both hot and cold water pipes in these areas should be insulated. A hot water supply line can freeze just like a cold water supply line if water is not running through the pipe and the water temperatures become cold. Insulate Pipes Consider installing specific products made to insulate water pipes like a pipe sleeve or installing UL-listed heat tape, heat cable or similar materials on exposed pipes. Find Water Shut-off Valve Determine where your water shut-off valve is in your house and learn how to use it. For most homes the shut-off valve is located near the water meter at the point where the water line comes into your home, usually in your basement. Protect Garage Pipes If you have plumbing in your garage, keep your garage door closed when it is very cold. Pipes in unheated garages or basements should be insulated. Seal Home for Winter Repair broken windows, check doors and insulate areas that allow cold exterior air to enter. Be Prepared When Traveling Set your thermostat at 60 degrees or higher and have someone check your house regularly. Running one faucet at a trickle can also help prevent a frozen service and give piece of mind while you are away. Winterize Outside Faucets Make sure the water line to the outside faucets (such as your garden hose) is turned off, the hoses are disconnected and the line is drained. Why do Service Lines Freeze: Water Temperature With the water already being cool as it enters our water distribution system, it takes very little exposure to colder temperatures for it to freeze. It is important that your water service lines are not exposed to colder air during winter months. Frost Depth Frost depth is the depth to which the ground is frozen. Water services in Brooklyn Center are typically installed U at a depth that is not reached by frost. However, during severely cold and long winters, frost depth can reach the depth of your service. This usually occurs in February or early March. In early spring it may seem warmer, but frost is still deep in the ground and remains until regular overnight temperatures above freezing are reached. During an extended cold winter, the frost depth can exceed seven feet and put service lines at risk. If the ground surrounding the service lines becomes frozen, it will cool the already cold water in the pipes and they can freeze. When the water stops moving, the temperature can lower quite quickly and freeze the water. Therefore, it is important to keep the water running and moving through the frost zone. If your service line or plumbing are susceptible to frost, you may want to consider letting your cold water run continuously from one faucet throughout the day and night. The amount of running water should be a little more than a trickle (half the diameter of a pencil). While this may not seem like an efficient solution, the associated utility charges could be less than the cost to repair or thaw your water service line. If you choose this option, the City recommends running water until April. Even as the weather warms up, the frost table is pushed lower, so the risk of frozen service lines could continue for several weeks beyond winter. Curbside Cleanup Coming Get ready to do to some heavy-duty spring cleaning. The city will hold a Bulky Waste Curbside Clean Up at the end of March and beginning of April. The city is divided into nine zones each with its own day of collection. To find your day use the interactive map on the website www.hrg-recycling.com on the Bulky Waste Curbside Cleanup page. A couple of weeks before the Cleanup you'll receive a postcard in the mail that has your date on it. On the day of collection in your zone trucks will be going down your street to pick up your unwanted items. You will be able to get rid of up to two appliances, unusable furniture, mattresses, carpet, material from your home improvement project and general junk. Place the material at the curb and our crews will take it away. Please bag smaller items. Items not accepted include: TVs and computers, tires, railroad ties, paint, hazardous material and any item more than 100 lbs. More details are on the website if you're not sure about an item, call 763-493-8006. Set your items out before 7 am on collection day, but not more than two days before the pick-up day. There's no need to make an appointment, however, trucks will only go down the street once — no return trips. This program is available to all residents in single-family homes, townhomes and multiunit buildings up to 8 units that participate in the curbside recycling program. Residential waste only; no contractor or business - related materials. Tower 1 Reconditioning Project With the unseasonz and cool weather, C Construction was al: to make significant progress on the reconditioning of Tower 1. The process included blasting, priming, washing and painting Tower 1 followed by addin new city logo. STAY ACTIVE THIS WINTER WITH BROOKLYN CENTER ' RECREATION! LISTED PROGRAMS ARE FREE AND SUB J CT TO COVID-1 GUIDELINES AND WEATHER CONDITIO play day! Make today a play day! Make today a play day! Make todz JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH 6 - Recess with Rec on the Go Wintry Wednesday Walks 7-Rec on the Go Family Ice Bocce 8 - Youth Fun Fridays 9- Flick & Float 10 - Snowshoe Sundays 11 - Recess with Rec on the Go 12 - Rec on the Go 13 - Wintry Wednesday Walks 14 - Rec on the Go Family Ice Bocce 15 - Youth Fun Fridays 16 & 17 - Family Sledding Weekend 19 - Rec on the Go 20 - Recess with Rec on the Go Wintry Wednesday Walks 21 - Rec on the Go Family Ice Bocce 22 -Youth Fun Fridays Flick & Float 24 - Snowshoe Sundays 25 - Recess with Rec on the Go 26 - Rec on the Go 27 - Wintry Wednesday Walks 28 - Rec on the Go Family Ice Bocce 29 - The Big Chill 2 - Rec on the Go 3 - Recess with Rec on the Go Wintry Wednesday Walks 4 - Rec on the Go Family Ice Bocce 5 - Youth Fun Fridays 8 - Recess with Rec on the Go 9 - Rec on the Go 10 - Wintry Wednesday Walks 11 - Rec on the Go Family Ice Bocce 12 - Youth Fun Fridays 13 - Flick & Float 14 - Snowshoe Sundays 16 - Rec on the Go 17 - Recess with Rec on the Go Wintry Wednesday Walks 18 - Rec on the Go 19 - Youth Fun Fridays 20 & 21 - Family Sledding Weekend 22 - Recess with Rec on the Go 23 - Rec on the Go 24 - Wintry Wednesday Walks 25 - Rec on the Go 26 - Youth Fun Fridays Flick & Float 28 - Snowshoe Sundays 2 - Rec on the Go 3 - Recess with Rec on the Go Wintry Wednesday Walks 4 - Rec on the Go 5 - Youth Fun Fridays 8 - Recess with Rec on the Go 9 - Rec on the Go 10 - Wintry Wednesday Walks 11-Rec on the Go 12 -Youth Fun Fridays 13 - Flick & Float 14 - Snowshoe Sundays 15 - Recess with Rec on the Go 16-Rec on the Go 17 - Recess with Rec on the Go Wintry Wednesday Walks 18-Rec on the Go 19 -Youth Fun Fridays 20 & 21 - Family Sledding Weekend 23-Rec on the Go 24 - Wintry Wednesday Walks 25 - Rec on the Go 26 -Youth Fun Fridays Flick & Float 28 - Snowshoe Sundays 30 - Rec on the Go 31- Wintry Wednesday Walks �� RETIONlus'i I I play day! Make today a play day! Make today a play day! Make tod FAMILY ICE BOCCE SNOWSHOE SUNDAYS Bring your family to Evergreen Park for a fun night of ice bocce. Snowshoeing is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and stay active Game equipment will be supplied by attendant. Wear your skates in the winter months, in fact it can burn up to 1,000 calories per or boots. The ice will be divided in half so 2 families can play at the hour! So join us on Sundays this winter to explore our parks on same time. Face masks recommended. snowshoes. Snowshoes, trekking poles and leg gaitors will be CaH 763-569-3382 to reserve a space. available on a first come first serve basis with photo ID. Adult and Jan 7 - Feb 11, Thursdays, 5 pm, 6 pm or 7 pm youth sizes available, recommended age 4 and up. FAMILY SLEDDING WEEKENDS Let it snow for sledding! Bring the family to the parks for the wonderful winter activity of sledding. Warm up with a hot beverage afterward. Sleds provided or bring your own. Saturdays and Sundays 2-3:30pm Jan 16 & 17 - Lions Park, Feb 20 & 21- Grandview Park, Mar 20 & 21 - Evergreen Park FLICK & FLOAT Watch a movie while floating in the heated pool, reservation required. Both family and teen events will be held this season. REC ON THE GO Join us for activities and equipment for youth and teens. There will be games, sports, arts, crafts and more! Free meals provided by Partners In Quality Care for youth 18 and under. RECESS WITH REC ON THE GO Rec on the Go staff will be joined by Brooklyn Center Community School staff to provide a mid -day activity break to kids who may be home and want to join. SKATING RINKS Skating season typically runs from December 15-February 15. It could be earlier or later depending on weather conditions. Sundays, 2 - 5 pm Lions Park - Jan , Feb, Mar (check -in at golf clubhouse) West Palmer Lake Park - Jan , Feb, Mar YOUTH FUN FRIDAYS Calling all youth! Join us at the parks of Brooklyn Center on Fridays for winter fun. Each week will have different surprise theme to explore. Dress for the weather. Fridays 4:30-5:30pm Jan 8 - Centennial West Park, Jan 15 - Evergreen Park Jan 22 - Willow Lane Park, Jan 29 - West Palmer Park Feb 5 - Firehouse Park, Feb 12 - Northport Park Feb 19 - Garden City Park, Feb 26 - Kylawn Park Mar 5 - Lions Park, Mar 12 - Bellvue Park Mar 19 - Orchard Lane Park, Mar 26 - Happy Hallow Park WINTRY WEDNESDAY WALKS Stay active this winter and enjoy the brisk winter air each Wednesday at Centennial Park. Bundle up and head over to take a stroll along the plowed trail and enjoy the wintry landscape and lights throughout the park. If you need to warm up, hot beverages will also be available! Bring photo ID to check out trekking poles. Wednesdays, 2 - 6 pm FOR FURTHER DETAILS CALL 763-569-3400, FOLLOW US AT FACEBOOK.COM/BROOKLYNCENTERREC OR VISIT CITYOFBROOKLYNCENTER.ORG/RECREATION. WEATHER HOTLINE: 763-569-3422 Vt OOKL Y "N=R AT THE CENTER 6301 Shingle Creek Parkway Brooklyn Center, MN 55430-2199 cityofbrooklyncenter.org e-mail: info@ci.brooklyn-center.mn.us City Hall (763) 569-3300 Job Information Line (763) 569-3307 City CONTACTS Council Members Mayor Mike Elliott Voicemail: (763) 569-3449 mayorelliott@ci.brooklyn-center.mn.us Councilmember Marquita Butler Voicemail: (763) 569-3446 councilmemberbutler@ci.brooklyn-center.mn.us Councilmember April Graves Voicemail: (763) 569-3448 councilmembergraves@ci.brooklyn-center.mn.us Councilmember Kris Lawrence -Anderson Voicemail: (763) 569-3444 councilmemberlawrence-anderson@ci.brooklyn-center.mn.us Councilmember Dan Ryan Voicemail: (763) 569-3445 councilmemberryan@ci.brooklyn-center.mn.us City Manager Curt Boganey (763) 569-3300 PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID TWIN CITIES MN PERMIT NO. 2170 City PHONE NUMBERS Administration ..............................................(763) 569-3300 Community Development ............................(763) 569-3330 Inspections, Code Enforcement, Ownership Services Public Works/Engineering ............................(763) 569-3340 Parks, Streets, Utilities...............................(763) 585-7100 Finance.......................................................... (763) 569-3320 Utility Billing .............................................(763) 569-3390 Recreation & Community Center .................(763) 569-3400 Activity Weather Line ...............................(763) 569-3442 Earle Brown Heritage Center .......................(763) 569-6300 Centerbrook Golf Course ..............................(763) 549-3750 Fire................................................................(763) 549-3600 Police (General Info) .....................................(763) 569-3333 Emergency & Non -Emergency Officer Assistance...... 911 Printed on recycled paper City COUNCIL MEETINGS City Council Regular Session meetings are held the 2nd and 4th Mondays of the month at 7pm. Informal Open Forum is held at 6:45pm before Council meetings for persons who wish to address the City Council about issues not scheduled on the agenda. City Council Work Sessions are held immediately following the Regular Session City Council meetings. City Council Meetings are broadcast live on cable Channel 16. Replays shown Tuesdays at 6:30pm and Wednesdays at 2:30am and 10:30am. You may also watch City Council meetings on-line, on demand at your convenience through a link on the City website. Call City Hall to verify meeting dates or visit the City's website at cityofbrooklyncenter.org.