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Spring/Summer Newsletter 2019C M OIC a �zOvatntcello MESSAGE FROM THE mAYUltof For as long as there's been Monticello, there's been Downtown. If you look at street maps from more than 100 years ago, you see the same street names we know today: Broadway, Walnut, and River. Take a look at photos from our history and you can see the change from dirt roads with horses to paved roads lined with cars. But what maps and photos can't show is the connection we feel to downtown. Our memories, from 30 years ago or yesterday, make Monticello home. Nothing will change downtown's history or the bond we feel to it. We carry that with us as we create the next part of downtown's story. An idea of what that story might be is laid out in the Downtown Small Area Plan. The plan's vision isn't set in stone, but it's a guide for making decisions about the future. It mixes spaces for adding something new with support for existing businesses. Making changes can be difficult, but it will make our city stronger. We're already seeing new projects downtown, and P 1 we're learning about more opportunities this year. Yet, even with the interest in future possibilities, we won't I forget the existing businesses. The city is working with property y owners on a program to help improve the storefronts on one of i; the core downtown blocks. We're also hosting meetings called Downtown Rounds to talk ,1 with business and property owners. Stakeholders and staff f share ideas, ask questions, and have ongoing conversations f about the best ways to boost downtown. Finally, we're committed to offering events and activities downtown. Let's face it, a little bit of fun goes a long way — Ir supporting local businesses and giving people chances to make new memories. Ultimately, our main goal is to make downtown a unique place for residents and visitors to enjoy Monticello. I look forward to seeing you around the community this summer! Thank you for the continued opportunity to serve, Mayor Brian Stumpf s�- Inside the 2019 Spring/Summer Newsletter 3 Public Meetings City Council Information & Public Meeting Schedule 4 2019 Construction News Pedestrian Improvements, Walnut Street, and More 6 Spring & Summer Information Building Dept., Animal Control, Public Works Dept. 8 Stormwater & Fire Depart. New Stormwater Fee, New Fire Station Plans 10 Community Development Comprehensive Plan Update, Downtown Buildings 12 Community Center Swimming Lessons, Fitness Classes, Summer Events 14 Parks Department Bertram Athletic Park Construction, Monti Arts Initiative 16 Monticello Equity Initiative 17 Shop Local Hi -Way Liquors, DMV, and FiberNet Monticello 18 Community Partners Monticello Library, Senior Center, & Summer Events 20 Utility Billing Garbage & Recycling Calendar 2 www.ci.monticello.mn.us CITY DIRECTORY City Hall 505 Walnut Street, Suite 1 Monticello, MN 55362 Phone: 763-295-2711 Fax: 763-295-4404 Email: info@ci.monticello.mn.us Hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Monday - Friday) Animal Control ......................... 612.859.6989 203 Chelsea Road, Monticello, MN 55362 Facility Hours: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. (Monday - Friday) Email: animal.control@ci.monticello.mn.us Community Center ......................763.295.2954 505 Walnut Street, Monticello, MN 55362 Summer Hours: 5:00 a.m.- 10:00 p.m. (Monday - Thursday) 5:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. (Friday) 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. (Saturday) 7:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (Sunday) Email: mccinfo@ci.monticello.mn.us Website: www.monticellocommunitycenter.com Department of Motor Vehicles ............ 763.295.2712 119 East 3rd Street, Monticello, MN 55362 Hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Monday - Friday) 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. (Saturday) Email: deputy.registrar2@ci.monticello.mn.us FiberNet Monticello .....................763.314.0100 118 6th Street West, Monticello, MN 55362 Hours: 10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m./1:30 - 4:00 p.m. (Monday - Friday) Phones: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Monday - Friday) Email: service@fibernetmonticello.com Website: www.fibernetmonticello.com Hi -Way Liquors ......................... 763.295.5222 545 Highway 25 North, Monticello, MN 55362 Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. (Monday - Saturday) 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. (Sunday) Email: randall.johnsen@ci.monticello.mn.us Public Works Department ................ 763.295.3170 909 Golf Course Road, Monticello, MN 55362 Hours: 7:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. (Monday - Friday) Email: public.works@ci.monticello.mn.us Fire Department Emergency ...................... 911 Non -Emergency .................. 763.295.4111 Wright County Sheriffs Office Emergency ........... 911 Non -Emergency .................. 763.682.1162 Trailblazer Transit .... .................1.888.743.3828 Hours: 6:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Daily I Handicap Accessible $2.00/Ride in city limits I $4.00/Ride less than 25 miles PUBLIC MEETING INFORMATION 2019-2020 City Council Mayor Brian Stumpf • Brian.Stumpf@ci.monticeIIo.mn.us • Term Expires December 31, 2020 Councilmember Jim Davidson • Jim. Davidson@ci.monticello.mn.us • Term Expires December 31, 2020 Councilmember Bill Fair • Bill.Fair@ci.monticello.mn.us • Term Expires December 31, 2020 Councilmember Charlotte Gabler • Charlotte.Gabler@ci.monticello.mn.us • Term Expires December 31, 2022 Councilmember Lloyd Hilgart • Lloyd.Hilgart@ci.monticello.mn.us • Term Expires December 31, 2022 City Council Meetings • Meetings are on the 2nd and 4t" Mondays of the month at 6:30 p.m. at the Community Center. The agenda is available at the meeting or you can view it at www.ci.monticello.mn.us/councilagendas. • Never attended a meeting before? We've got a city council guide that tells you what to expect when you attend: www.ci.monticello.mn.us/citvcouncil. • Can't attend? Watch live from our website and cable channel 12/180. The recordings are also replayed during the week on cable TV or anytime on our website. • Have a question or concern? You can speak during Citizen Comments to address the council about topics not on the agenda. Each speaker is allowed 3 minutes to speak to the council members. • Archived agendas and minutes are available on our website or by contacting the City Clerk at 763-295- 2711. City Council Highlights New in 2019! Highlights from the City Council meeting are added to the city website on Tuesday afternoon after the meeting. www.ci.monticello.mn.us/highlights a k -'A ,,,}i ��r'•4��'rS` { 7 f Meeting Schedule City Council* 2nd &4 th Monday Monthly 1 6:30 p.m. Mississippi Room Monticello Community Center Economic Development Authority* 2nd Wednesday I Monthly 1 6:00 p.m. Mississippi Room I Monticello Community Center Planning Commission* 1st Tuesday I Monthly 1 6:00 p.m. Mississippi Room I Monticello Community Center Bertram Chain of Lakes Advisory Council 1St Friday I Monthly 18:00 a.m. Chalet I Bertram Chain of Lakes Regional Park Highway 25 Coalition Last Thursday I Monthly 1 7:30 a.m. Monticello Community Center Industrial & Economic Development Committee 1St Tuesday I Monthly 1 7:00 a.m. Monticello Community Center Library Board 2nd Tuesday I Quarterly starting in March 1 5:30 p.m. Monticello Public Library Parks and Recreation Commission 4t" Thursday I Bimonthly starting in January 1 9:15 a.m. Conference Room I Monticello Public Works *These meetings are televised on cable channel 12, Charter channel 180, and live streamed from the city website. 2019 1 Spring & Summer 3 CONSTRUCTION Fallon Avenue Overpass Landscaping Project FALLON AVENUE IMPROVEMENTS �N AME ER IRRIGATED STgE� PUT( FESCUE' GRASS TIT k II: it !I CURA'U RCGP <� `\ RYPI `ASHLARPATTER ..i STAMPED C0 IU TRAIL A Monticello N SB - m. w� IVORY SILK LILAC TREE TRASH RECEPTACLE WRINGING SIGN BOULDER SEATING BENCH ST HFF� It's time to put the finishing touches on the Fallon Avenue Overpass project! The bridge, roundabouts, and road improvements were completed last fall, and landscaping was planned to be finished in 2019. The plans include planting trees along Washington Street, 7t" Street, Fallon Avenue, and Chelsea Road. The trees will be placed so they don't reduce sight lines or interfere with traffic signs. Finally, the center area of the new roundabouts will be landscaped with a mix of trees, shrubs, grasses, and perennial plants. It may seem strange to landscape the center of the roundabout since it makes it hard to see across, but remember that drivers straight across are not impacting you when you enter the roundabout. Instead, focus on the drivers to your left in the circle. The landscaping will actually help direct your attention to the proper place by eliminating unimportant movement at the intersection. 2019 Summer Chip Seal Project The 2019 Chip Seal Project is planned for the second half of the summer, after Riverfest is complete. The map of the project area is shown, and the impacted streets will be posted with signs in advance. During the project there will be restrictions in effect for watering and on -street parking. Additional information is available at www.ci.monticello.mn.us/streets. This project is an important part of the city's street maintenance program. The road surface is sprayed with an emulsified hot asphalt and covered with a layer of crushed rock. Streets are swept of excess rock within a week. This process extends the life of the road surface by protecting it from excessive wear and premature deterioration. If you have any questions, please contact the Streets Superintendent at 763-295-3170. 4 www.ci.monticeIIo.mn.us NEWS Pedestrian Improvements Last year Monticello proposed an improvement project connecting gaps in the existing sidewalk and trail system. The goal was to help pedestrians move around the city more easily. However, the city didn't complete the project because of higher th t d t ti t GI" expec e cons ruc on cos s. The city requested bids for the project again this year, and the costs were reduced. City Council recently approved constructing the following segments of sidewalk and pathway in 2019: • 6th Street sidewalk extension from Walnut Street to TH 25 • 7th Street sidewalk extension from Cedar Street to the U.S. Post Office • Oakwood Drive sidewalk extension from TH 25 to Cedar Street • Rolling Woods sidewalk extension connecting the existing sidewalk along Bakken Street to the park • CSAH 38 paved trail from Mississippi Drive to Broadway Walnut Street Improvement Project City Council is considering a project along Walnut Street. It's an improvement supporting the goals of the Downtown Small Area Plan and creating a safer, more accessible space in the core of downtown Monticello. In March the City Council approved the plans for the project, which include: • Installing curb extensions on the 4 corners of the Walnut and Broadway intersection, reducing the distance for pedestrians crossing the streets. The curb extensions will narrow Walnut Street at the intersection, which also helps to slow speeds in the area. • Restriping the crosswalk at Walnut and Broadway. • Installing streetscape elements at the intersection of Walnut and Broadway, including plaza areas on the south corners with seating space and landscaping. a I I I IIII I' I I (IIII lillllllll i �i lam® �� . �li:� ��■lIP/S�_ MER �i!_�r vnow r11/ Mal — ��i■�■ice �ll -140 M. Aim The plans also include an option to construct a pedestrian ramp at River Street. However, the final decision about the ramp will be made later this spring depending on construction costs and potential redevelopment in the area. Bids will be presented to City Council in May. If approved, the project is anticipated to be constructed this summer. The city will not need to close roads for extended periods or detour drivers. However, travelers should be alert for workers in the area and possible temporary lane closures. Access to downtown businesses will be maintained throughout the project. 2019 1 Spring & Summer 5 BUILDING DEPARTMENT Spring is the perfect season to get your yard in shape, fix winter damage, and tackle interior jobs that require good ventilation. Check out our spring home maintenance checklist for some reminders to help you make the most of spring cleaning! SPRING HOME MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST Check foundation walls, floors, concrete & masonry for cracking, heaving or deterioration. Check chimney for loose, deteriorated or missing mortar. Check grading for proper slope away from the foundation walls. Check all wood surfaces — especially at the soil level — for weathering, peeling paint or dry rot. Check deck, patio, porch, and exterior stairs and railings for deterioration or damage. downspouts and repair any leaks. • Repair or replace torn screens, broken windows, broken sash ropes or hold open devices on windows. • Check basement and crawl space for moisture or leaking water. • Check cooling system before hot weather arrives. • • • Open vents in crawl spaces and vent • basements. • Do interior painting or varnishing • when windows can be open. • Check smoke and CO detectors. • • Remove debris from gutters and Take note of slow drains or back-ups and have sewer pipes cleaned if needed. Check for any missing, loose or damaged shingles. Check for open seams, blisters or bald areas on flat roofs. Check antenna supports for possible leak sources. Check fascia and soffits for deterioration and damage. Check roof louvers for damage or plugging (bird nests, etc.). A FEW MORE REMINDERS FROM THE BUILDING DEPARTMENT All vehicles need to be parked on If your vehicle requires a license & will be More information from the Building approved surfaces. parked outside of an enclosed building, Department is available on the city In front yards, parking on the grass is not please be sure the license plate & tabs website: permitted. are current and the vehicle is operable. www.ci.monticello.mn.us/building 0 F�,1KLI11iTl1:1110ID: X� Monticello contracts with an Animal Control Officer for animal control services in the community. After a recent retirement, we want to welcome Monticello's new Animal Control Officer, Randi! Residents can call for assistance with lost pets, general animal complaints, reports of animals running at large, etc. Regular hours for service are Monday -Friday from 8:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m. Non -emergency calls outside these hours will be addressed the next work day. Animal Control: 612-859-6989 www.ci.monticeIIo.mn.us DOG LICENSES • There is a limit of 3 dogs per property by city ordinance. • All dogs 6 months of age and older require a license; no exceptions. • Licenses are issued in 2 year periods; the current period is 2019-2020. The cost is $20. • Proof of rabies vaccination is required to receive the license. • If found, lost dogs are held for 7 days and then transferred to a rescue agency for adoption. OTHER ANIMALS • Cats require a rabies vaccination but don't require a license. • Fowl are allowed by permit with a limit of 6 per property. • Roosters are not allowed in the city limits. • Bees are allowed by permit. • Permit applications for animals are available on the city website: www.ci.monticello.mn.us/ licenses MONTI CELLO� PUBLIC WORKS The Water Conservation Ordinance limits watering to odd/even days based on property address. This distributes the demand during seasons when lawns are being irrigated and eases the burden on our water supplies. When planting new trees, sod or grass, you may request an exemption permit which allows you to water every day for 30 days. Extensions are not issued. Also, please be aware that building permits are required when installing new sprinkler systems. To report a violation of the watering schedule, please contact the Water Department at 763-295-3170. Fines may be imposed for violations. The Water Department submits a water quality testing and analysis report to the State of Minnesota by June 1 every year, The 2019 Consumer Confidence Report will include testing results based on monitoring from January -December 2018. It will be available to the public on the city website. If you have comments/questions about the report or want to learn more about public participation in decisions impacting water quality, please call the Water Department at 763-295-3170. You can also find more information about the Water Department at: www.ci.monticello.mn.us/water. This is a free service for city residents! Leaves must be in compostable plastic or paper bags and at the curb by 7 a.m. on Saturday, May 11 for collection. No grass clippings, twigs, or other yard waste. If you use plastic bags, remember that the package must say the bags meet ASTM D6400 standards for composting. Bags that are biodegradable or degradable do not meet Monticello's ordinance requirements. The required compostable bags can be purchased at most home improvement or grocery stores. Call Public Works at 763-295-3170 with questions or visit the city website for additional information. Metro Appliance Recycling will be at the Commuter Parking Lot at 9250 Deegan Avenue on Saturday, April 27 from 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. for Spring Recycling Day. This event is open to the public. Appliances, computers and electronics will be accepted for a fee. Sorry, no furniture will be accepted. Please visit Thin kGreenMN.com to view a complete list of accepted items along with the disposal fees. All questions can be directed to 763-241-8787. City residents can dispose of leaves and grass clippings at: Compactor: Located in the parking lot at Public Works. The compactor is open Mon -Fri from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. • Compost Site: Residents can use the compost site on W. River St. at any time. Call Public Works at 763-295- 3170 for the weekly access code. When dropping off leaves/grass clippings at either site, please empty the bags and dispose of them in the proper container. Join the team! The City of Monticello is accepting applications for full-time summer and fall seasonal employees in the Parks Department and Streets Department. Positions are available May - October. Information about job duties, minimum requirements, and compensation is available on the city website along with the online job application. www.ci.monticello.mn.us 2019 1 Spring & Summer SPRING STORMWATER TIP Fertilizers, leaves, grass clippings, animal waste, and eroded soil are all sources of phosphorus. When they are swept or washed into the street or nearest storm drain, they end up in your local lake or river. You can do your part to protect water quality by doing the following: 8 Buy phosphorus -free lawn fertilizer. Keep soil, leaves, and lawn clippings out of the street. Mow higher. Keep your grass length to 3 inches for a healthier lawn. Pick up pet waste promptly. Pet waste can contain harmful bacteria as well as nutrients that cause excess algae and weed growth in lakes and rivers. Control soil erosion around your house. When left bare, soil is easily washed away with rain, carrying phosphorus with it. Soil erosion can be prevented by keeping soil covered with vegetation or mulch. Stormwater is a leading cause of water pollution and can be harmful to lakes, rivers, and streams. The city is required to meet state & federal environmental regulations and maintain the stormwater infrastructure within the city limits. Due to increasing mandates and aging infrastructure, the city is adding a stormwater utility fee starting in July 2019. The city established a Water Quality Fund to receive the revenue from the fee and will use the funds for: • Compliance & management of the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) • Storm sewer maintenance and upgrades • Pond maintenance • Street sweeping The fee will be charged at a rate of $1 per drainage unit, and residential units will be assigned 1 drainage unit. The new monthly charge will appear on the regular utility bill. More information about stormwater and the new stormwater utility fee are available on our website: www.ci.monticel lo.mn.us/stormwater Content Credit: www.pca.state.mn.us www.ci.monticeIIo.mn.us Content Credit: Washington Conservation District Clean streets and gn a utters give our towbeautiful look, but they are also an important part of protecting waterways. Sweeping prevents pollutants and sediment from entering the storm water system and the Mississippi River. A successful sweeping program helps keep Monticello in compliance with the Federal Clean Water Act. Sweeping operations begin in the spring as soon as the streets are clear of snow and ice. Spring sweeping is designed to pick up what's left behind from winter sanding . It normally takes 6-8 weeks to complete the entire city. Next the Street Department moves into general maintenance sweeping. This is a slow process with gutter line speeds as low as 2 to 3 mph. As a motorist, please slow down when you approach a sweeper. When you notice a sweeper in your neighborhood, please help us clear the streets of garbage and recycling containers, cars, basketball hoops, and other obstructions. Remember, it's illegal to blow or rake leaves and grass clippings into the street. It's also illegal to place branches and other debris in the street. With your cooperation, we can keep our streets clean and our water pollutant free! lvw� _D EXCITING CHANGES FOR J.- THE FIRE DEPARTMENT LW "--- - New Fire Station oNT I c e It's been more than 30 years since the Monticello Fire Station was constructed, and the station no longer meets the needs of the Fire Department. In 2017 the city began exploring whether to expand the FARE DEPT station at its current location or construct a new building in a different location. Ultimately, City Council decided new construction would be most efficient and effective. After reviewing several options, the City Council selected a city -owned lot at 103 Chelsea Road. The new location offers: Access to the Fallon Avenue Overpass to avoid the crowded TH 25 corridor • Access to 1-94 for accidents on the freeway. A central location in the city with direct access to and from the site for firefighters and emergency response vehicles. • Large enough land area for the fire station and vehicle access without disrupting current uses on the property. In December 2018 the City Council approved the plans and specifications and authorized staff to bid the project. Then in January 2019 the City Council awarded the $4.1 million contract for construction in 2019. The estimated cost of the fire station was included in the Capital Improvement Plan approved by the City Council in 2018. To fund the project, the city can sell General Obligation Bonds, allowing the cost of the project to be incorporated into the tax levy and financed over a period of 15 years. Construction is expected to begin in spring 2019 and be complete by February 2020. Information about the project is available at www.ci.monticello.mn.us/firestation. We will post project updates and photos periodically during construction. Currently no plans have been finalized for the long-term use of the existing fire station once the department moves to the new location. Considerations for reuse of the building will be brought to the City Council later this year. In the immediate future, the city intends to utilize the space for storing large public works equipment. New Ladder Truck As Monticello continues to grow, the Fire Department needs the right equipment to respond to the changes. The department has ordered a new 100' aerial ladder truck that will help it stay prepared given recent commercial, industrial, and residential development. The truck is specially designed and can take up to a year to build. Monticello's new ladder truck is currently being assembled and should be delivered by spring 2020. A Note from the Fire Department Thank you to everyone who helped keep fire hydrants clear of snow this winter! Your efforts are truly appreciated! 2019 1 Spring & Summer 9 DREAM BIG. MONTICELLO Working Toward a Community Vision & Comprehensive Plan Update Where will you be in 20 years? You've probably thought about that question a lot. Imagining the answer helps you plan for retirement, save for your child's college education, or work to stay healthy. You frame the future as an opportunity and ask, "Where do I want to be in 20 years?" You plan, and of course, you dream. A city is no different than an individual asking and answering this very significant question. Communities should — and do — ask "Where do we want to be in 20 years?" Approximately every 10 years, Minnesota cities take time to dream big about their futures. The process is called Comprehensive Planning. The effort connects residents with each other and with their elected officials to discuss aspirations for their town and then creates a long-range community plan for the next 20 years. That time has come for Monticello. The city's Comprehensive Plan was last updated in 2008. So much has happened in Monticello since that time. Plus so much more is on the horizon! Monticello is embarking on the 2040 Community Vision and Comprehensive Plan process beginning this summer. Monticello's 2040 plan will blend long-range planning with a very important element: the creation of a shared community vision. This is a chance for individual dreams and goals for Monticello's future to be heard and blended into one common vision. We're interested in the forces and trends you think will shape Monticello. We also want to hear your ideas for truly creative solutions to move our community forward. We'll offer a variety of public engagement opportunities during the project, beginning this summer. We want to start with a common goal that leads us confidently into Monticello's future. From that shared vision will come a plan with actionable outcomes to guide our community's growth and development. At the end of the Comprehensive Planing process, we intend to have a living document helping Monticello guide land use, build roads, plan for our parks and open spaces, connect utilities, innovate for economic development, and implement policies that help to keep us safer and healthier. So ... where does Monticello want to be in 20 years? You tell us. We're listening! Read the project outline for the Monticello 2040 Community Vision and Comprehensive Plan on our website at: www.ci.monticello.mn.us/monti204O. You can also sign up to receive updates and learn about ways to get involved with the Monticello 2040 Community Vision and Comprehensive Plan project. 10 www.ci.monticeIIo.mn.us ASKTHE CITY Why does Monticello buy buildings & leave them vacant? We get this question a lot, and the answer has two important parts: The City buys property for economic development purposes when the property owner decides to sell. Economic development is a partnership. When a property owner decides to sell, the city or EDA decides if owning the property works toward a city goal, such as redevelopment, reinvestment, or new housing. This partnership is important because Minnesota cities can't use eminent domain for economic development purposes. The rule applies to a city and its Economic Development Authority (EDA). As a result, the City of Monticello and EDA only buy property for economic development when a property owner decides to sell. This was the process for acquiring the city and EDA -owned buildings downtown. The older buildings only become the property of the City or EDA when the property owner is ready. So why do they sit vacant? The existing buildings and improvements become an important piece of financing something new. If the city decides to tear buildings down before a new project is ready to go, a new project may never happen because we risk losing an important redevelopment tool. New development is expensive. Redevelopment is even more expensive. In many redevelopment situations, there are traditional development costs for buying the property and constructing a new building. However, the projects also have costly environmental review and abatement costs as well as demolition charges. Plus, often several parcels have to be purchased to be able to complete one larger project. To help encourage redevelopment despite these costs, cities have an important tool —tax increment financing, also known as TIF. Essentially, TIF allows a city to capture the difference between the prior tax value of a property and the new tax value created by development. Cities or EDAs then utilize that new tax value, or increment, to help offset development costs. There are different types of TIF districts used by cities. One of the most commonly used in downtowns is a Redevelopment TIF District. It helps make the cost to redevelop more like the cost to develop something new. To create and use Redevelopment TIF districts, the city has to prove a site was previously developed _--35 n0Q and has become substandard and too expensive to rehabilitate. Once a city verifies those circumstances and tears the building down, it only has three years for new development to occur before the opportunity to create a Redevelopment TIF District expires. If the city tears the building down immediately after purchase, it loses the chance to support redevelopment. UQ COBE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . / abs The city & EDA do their part to encourage redevelopment of vacant properties. While it may look like nothing is happening in these vacant buildings, the city and EDA prioritize and market the properties to the private sector. They emphasize the value and characteristics of the land. They also highlight the various incentives for developers - including the possibility of a Redevelopment TIF District! Highly Desirable! So, the next time you see a vacant downtown building owned by the city or EDA and wonder "why MoiriEao doesn't the city just tear that building down," the answer is — because the city needs to preserve Downtown Rweftnt Development the opportunity to help create something new! OPPORTUNITIES Majirs Advertising & Design 2019 1 Spring & Summer 11 MONTICELLO COMMUNITY CENTER Become a Member Today! The Monticello Community Center has something fun for everyone! Memberships include access to our facility amenities, including the fitness center, fitness classes, climbing wall, pool, waterslide, hot tubs, gymnasium, and the Moose Sherritt Ice Arena. Plus, our members get early registration for popular programs like swimming lessons and discounts on community center activities. Visit our website or call 763-295-2954 for more information. Fitness Classes Make fitness more fun with classes at the community center! We offer a variety of classes for all ages and abilities. Classes are led by certified instructors—with more than 40 classes per week from 5:15 a.m. to 7:15 p.m. Plus, we offer yoga & barre classes in the new studio across the street! t� 9 • - • • • Summer Hours: May 28—September 3 Monday—Thursday: 5:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m. Friday: 5:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m. Saturday: 7:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. Sunday: 7:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Closed: Memorial Day 14th of July I Labor Day Swimming Lessons It's the perfect 3- season to get your little swimmer into lessons! There are sessions throughout the summer at a variety of levels. The summer schedule will be released on May 6. Registration follows later in the week. View the schedule and register online on our website! Adult Leagues We offers adult sports leagues throughout the year! Registration is currently open for the summer Men's Softball League. We're also hosting the Mississippi Rampage Softball Tournament again in 2019! More leagues will be available this fall. Check out our website for details! Summer 2019: Friendship Island Registration Now Open! Friendship Island is a safe, supervised, all -day summer program where kids experience a variety of activities! Kids spend their summer vacation rock climbing, swimming, playing gym games, taking field trips, doing arts and crafts, playing outdoors, visiting the library & more! Space is limited; full-time enrollment only. Registration will be on a first come/first serve basis. Children must have completed kindergarten. Monday—Friday I June 10—August 23 1 Closed July 4-5 Hours: 6 a.m.-6 p.m. I Drop off between 6-9 a.m. I Pick up between 3-6 p.m. Additional information & 2019 registration packet available at: www.monticellocommunitycenter.com/friendshilp-island The Monticello Community Center provides entertaining, inclusive, and safe social and recreational opportunities that connect the community. 12 www.ci.monticeIIo.mn.us SUMMER ACTIVITIES� FROM THE COMMUNITY CENTER The MCC is ready for a summer of sun & fun! Full details about events are on our website, and we invite you to check back this summer so you don't miss any excitement. A big thank you to all of our sponsors for helping us host these events! NIONTICELUD'S ANNUAL PATHWAY CELEBRATION Saturday, June 8 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Start: CentraCare Parking Lot End: West Bridge Park Join us for a free, family -friendly celebration of Monticello's Parks & Pathways! Grab your Pathport in the CentraCare Parking Lot then walk 'n' roll your way to West Bridge Park for a party—plus a chance to win a new 11_� bike! .111111.1 FARMERS MARKET Thursdays starting May 23 3:30-7:00 p.m. Monticello Library Parking Lot Shop local growers and producers every week at the Farmers Market! All vendors are within a 25 mile radius of Monticello! You can also follow the market on Facebook for the latest updates and upcoming events at the market. Saturday, May 11 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. MCC Gymnasium A brand new event with pet -related exhibits, demonstrations, and pets ready for adoption. Admission is free! Please note: personal pets are not allowed at this event. Thank you! J Friday, August 2 @ Pioneer Park "Smallfoot" Friday, August 16 @ Montiview Park "Lego Movie 2" Movies under the stars are back for free family fun this summer. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy a movie on the big screen under a beautiful summer sky. Movies start at dusk. Select Tuesday & Thursday Nights Music starts at 7:00 p.m. West Bridge Park The newest summertime favorite is back for a second year with evenings of music, food, and fun! Dates, bands, and sponsors are available on our website! This activity made possible by the voters of MN through a grant from the Central MN Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts & cultural heritage fund as well as local sponsors. , Annual Block Party July II Ilan! Ip!� Thursday, July 11 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. MCC's 6th Street Parking Lot Start your Riverfest celebrations early with a Block Party at the Monticello Community Center! Stop by for a free lunch, including a hot dog, chips, beverage, and dessert. The fun happens near the Senior Center entrance to the facility. 2019 1 Spring & Summer 13 PARKSDEPARTMENT The Parks Department is getting ready for a busy summer around Monticello. Follow the city's Facebook page for the latest updates about park improvements and trail maintenance. Plus, visit www.monticelloparksmn.us/map for an interactive map of all the parks in Monticello—or stop by City Hall and grab one of our pocket maps! Bertram Chain of Lakes Athletic Park Construction Construction started this spring on the first phase of improvements at the Bertram Chain of Lakes Regional Athletic Park. The athletic park is part of the larger regional park owned by Wright County and the City of Monticello, and when it's complete it will include athletic fields, playgrounds, shelters, and picnic facilities. Currently the athletic park offers interim green fields of soccer and lacrosse. This project will focus on the northern 27 acres of the larger 118 acre park site. The general project area is highlighted in yellow on the map below. The plans support the existing interim multi -use fields and create baseline infrastructure necessary for the next phase of field development. In February the City Council awarded the $1.5 million construction contract, and the contractor broke ground in April. Construction includes: • Mass grading of the 27 acres • Construction of 2 premier multi-purpose fields • Expanded parking and minimal parking lot lighting • Gravel trails • Electrical utility infrastructure • Stormwater pond and irrigation system • Seeding and landscaping The Bertram Chain of Lakes Regional Athletic Park is being developed in phases based on the needs of the community and Bertram Chain of Lakes Athletic Park Master Plan Map as funding is secured. This phase currently under construction was funded with proceeds from the municipal liquor fund. The park will remain open for soccer and lacrosse play throughout the summer. Athletes and their families will be able to park in the existing parking lot. More information is available at www.ci.monticello.mn.us/bertramathIetics. If you have questions, please contact the Monticello Parks Department at 763-295-3170. New Columbarium Riverside Cemetery is a historical landmark in Monticello, but more importantly, it's a place of remembrance for people in our community. The Parks Department is responsible for operating and maintaining the cemetery, and this summer they are completing an important addition to Riverside: a new columbarium-ossuarium. Columbariums and ossuaries are specially designed structures that accommodate cremated remains. They also offer memorial stones for family and loved ones. The new columbarium in Riverside Cemetery is being built in a place of honor near the flagpole. If you're looking for more information about the columbarium or about Riverside Cemetery, please contact the Parks Department at 763-295-3170. 14 www.ci.monticeIIo.mn.us ,6Montl INITIAL Monti Arts Finds a Home Downtown! This spring the Monti Arts Initiative moved into the former Fred's Auto Building at 349 West Broadway. The building is owned by the Monticello EDA, and they agreed to lease the space to the Parks Department for the Arts Initiative. The lease allows the building to be used by the creative community until redevelopment occurs. The arrangement adds new life to the downtown building and provides opportunities for the public to participate in the Arts Initiative. Here's a quick glance at the upcoming events & activities: • Grand Opening: Everyone is invited to the new Monti Arts Building on May 11 from 5:30-8:30 p.m. It will be a fun, informal community gathering with opportunities to meet other creatives, see how the building is taking shape, and preview the calendar of upcoming events. • Second Saturdays (and Sundays!): On the 2 d Saturday of the month, the public is invited to the Monti Arts Building in the afternoon to work on community art projects or their own art work. Following an afternoon of creativity, there will be time to socialize and share your work from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Sunday times to be determined. • Monti Arts Mondays: Every Monday from 2:00-8:00 p.m. the public is invited to work on community art projects or their own art at the building. • Art Classes & Programs: We're busy putting together a list of classes and programs to be hosted out of the building. Visit www.monticellocommunitycenter.com this May for class & registration information. • Concrete Sculptures: During open times, Monti Arts will be working on concrete sculpture benches, planters, and more! These fun, functional pieces of art are built and then creatively covered with mosaics for a colorful finish. No experience necessary— we'll teach you what you need to know. Once they are displayed downtown, you'll know you helped bring it to life! The Arts Initiative is always coming up with new ideas! If you want to know about the creative projects and opportunities, the best way is to send an email to arts@ai.monticello.mmus to be added to the email list or follow us on Facebook @MontiArts! We can't wait to meet you! The East Bridge Gardeners are a volunteer group that helps care for the beautiful gardens at East Bridge Park. The group plants the gardens in the spring, weeds and maintains in the summer, and puts the gardens to bed in the fall. They meet Mondays at 8:00 a.m., weather permitting. They work for a couple of hours and then gather to socialize for a little while Everyone is welcome—no need to RSVP. Just come if you can! The Friends of Bertram is a volunteer group dedicated to preserving and enhancing Bertram Chain of Lakes Regional Park. The Friends support programs, promote the park, and volunteer at a variety of park activities. Please consider becoming a member! Your annual membership dues of $20 help fund projects and events at the park! The Friends of Bertram Membership Appreciation is Thursday, May 16 from 6-8 p.m. at the Chalet. Members are invited for refreshments, music, a campfire & more! Please RSVP by May 10: FriendsofBertram@hotmail.com. Thanks to incredibly dedicated volunteers, there is a mountain bike challenge course at Montiview Park. Not a mountain biker? The trail is also fantastic for hiking, and the park offers beautiful views of Monticello and the region. The trailhead is located at 5980 Jason Ave. There's a parking lot, bike repair station, and a sculpture made of recycled bike parts. Also, if you love the trail, consider volunteering! If you're interested in helping maintain the course, please send an email to DirtWirxl@gmail.com. 2019 1 Spring & Summer 15 EQUITYINMONTICELLO 'Mont'cello We frequently hear that Monticello is a supportive community that cares. The city is committed to doing our part to be welcoming to all people, and this year we're striving to learn more about how we can improve. The City of Monticello is participating in a program called Advancing Racial Equity offered by the League of Minnesota Cities and the Government Alliance on Race & Equity. The initiative educates cities and provides them with a "toolkit" to evaluate policies, practices, and programs to make them more equitable. It's built around the idea that government policies can have unintended impacts to minority communities, and we have a responsibility to learn how to identify and correct those issues. The toolkit is also intended to be adaptable—each city builds a race equity program for their circumstances and characteristics. In addition to race, the training helps local governments think about gender, age, physical ability, etc. when creating policies and programs. Cities around the state and across the country are involved in the program, which gives Monticello an opportunity to learn from experts as well as other municipal leaders. We'll be able to take what we learn and incorporate the ideas into our city. We look forward to sharing our efforts during the coming year! DID YOU KNOW? Monticello has a Redesigned monthly E -Newsletter! IA nbceuo M.—II—N-1— SIP—ber 2018 Looking for a convenient way to find out about news and events in Monticello? We've got an e -newsletter that will give you a monthly preview of city information. Sign up is quick and easy on either our website or Facebook page. Then at the beginning of the month you'll get the latest news right into your inbox! 16 www.ci.monticello.mn.us Wright County Offers a Citizen Alert System Stay informed during an emergency! Wright County uses a Citizen Alert System powered by EVERBRIDGE to alert citizens about issues that may affect their safety. This allows the county to contact residents in seconds, so you can find out about an emergency right away. The success of this service relies on YOU. Having accurate contact information is the only way to ensure you are contacted in an emergency. Please sign up on the Wright County website. If you have questions, please call Wright County at 763-682-3900. More emergency preparation links are at www.ci.monticello.mn.us. Stay Connected with Monticello on Facebook Several departments within the City of Monticello have their own Facebook Pages. Follow your favorites for updates and information! • City of Monticello • Monticello Community Center • Monticello Fire Department • Monti Arts Initiative • Hi -Way Liquors • FiberNet Monticello • Monticello Farmers Market We're curious what you want to see next! Twitter? Instagram? Email us at info@ci.monticello.mn.us and tell us how you'd like to connect with us! SHOPLOC Shopping Local Makes Cents! When you shop at Hi -Way Liquors, you support your community. Profits from the store help fund local projects around the city—including the new Bertram Chain of Lakes Athletic Park! Stop in and meet our friendly, knowledgeable staff. For your convenience, we're open: • Monday—Saturday from 9:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m. • Sunday from 11:00 a.m.- 6:00 p.m. You can also follow Hi -Way Liquors on Facebook and sign- up for bi-weekly e -deals for news about discounts, products, and events! www.ci.monticello.mn.us/hiwayliquors www.Facebook.com/hiway.liquors.mn Stop in to experience our friendly, award-winning staff for yourself! To avoid long lines, we recommend coming the 2nd or 3rd week of the month. We can help you with: • All of your DNR needs! Fishing & hunting licenses, boat transfers, and more. You can also find the youth hunting regulations in our office. • Driver's license updates if you lost it or need to change your address. • Registering your vehicle or transferring your title. If you lost your title, we can process a duplicate in house for $17.25. • Reinstatement fees. This service is now available at the Monticello DMV! A full list of services is available at: www.ci.monticello.mn.us/dmv Monday—Friday: 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m.—Noon 2019 1 Spring & Summer 17 200 West 6th Street RIVER REGIONAL 763-295-2322 RARY M 10a.m.-8p.m. I W 10a.m.-6p.m. T\TH 1-8p.m. I F 10 a.m.-5p.m.I S 10a.m.-2p.m. Jun 3: Honoring Veterans: Memorial Day & the 75th Anniversary of D -Day I Adults 16:30-8:00 p.m. Join us as we honor the 75th anniversary of the D -Day Invasion & learn about military customs that celebrate and honor those who served. Jun 10: Magic Bob's Summer Reading Program Kick-off Show Kids 13:30-4:15 p.m. I A Legacy Event Magic Bob helps kids discover there are remarkable journeys ahead every time they read by learning to do extraordinary things, taking risks they may not have taken before, and meeting colorful characters! And perhaps learning to become a little more colorful themselves! Jul 8: K-9 Storytime All Ages 111:00-11:45 a.m. Join Wright County K-9 officers for a fun & interactive storytime. We'll be outside on the lawn if weather permits. Jul 11: The Dollipops Families 12:00-3:00 p.m. I Limit 60 1 A Legacy Event Get ready to sing, dance, & laugh with the high-energy, interactive new kids' show -The Dollipops! Dolli & Pop are sisters who travel from Sweet Tart City to bring you on a magical & musical road trip sure to get kids (and parents!) moving, grooving, & making memories. Jul 16: Mobile Sign Shop All Ages 13:00 -6:00 p.m. I Limit 60 1 A Legacy Event Take a stop at the Mobile Sign Shop! You draw on a wooden sign blank, we carve it with a router, and you paint it! 2 artists will be on hand to facilitate this 3 hour drop-in outdoor event. For all ages, but young children will need adult assistance. Jul 24: Balloonology (Registration Required) All Ages 14:00 -5:00 p.m. I Limit 20 1 Sponsored by City of Monticello Learn the science & technique to creating fun balloon animals. Kids must be able to tie a balloon knot or have a caregiver with them. Jul 30: Skateboard Deck Design Workshop (Registration Required) Ages 12-18 16:00 -8:00 p.m. I Limit 10 1 A Legacy Event Design & take home your own skateboard deck! Instruction & materials provided by Minneapolis artist Mark Rivard. Rivard Art Education is an experimental learning platform utilizing art, culture, and creative spirit. Aug 2: Rusty's Rockin' Jamboree Families 13:00 -3:45 p.m. Rusty's Rockin' Jamboree is a premier children's music & comedy experience. Join us on the lawn & bring a chair or blanket (weather permitting). Aug 5: The Oz Brothers Ages 5-11 1 10:30-11:15 a.m. I A Legacy Event Experience the Wizard of Oz using the story's fun characters & props! For a complete list of all events, visit www.griver.org 18 www.ci.monticeIIo.mn.us mon f LLO 505 Walnut St, Suite 3 763-295-2000 Mon -Fri 8a.m.-4:30p.m. Sat 8a.m.-10:30a.m. The senior center is hosting a Dad's Belgian Waffles fundraiser on Sunday, April 28 in the Community Center gym from 8 a.m. to noon. The menu includes waffles, toppings, sausage, milk, juice, and coffee. The cost is $7 in advance ($8 at the door) for ages 13+, $4 for kids ages 5-12, and free for those under 5! Proceeds benefit the senior center. May is Older Americans Month (OAM) with several special events planned. Call the senior center for more info. • Senior Hobby Day is May 3. Older adults are needed to display/demonstrate hobbies for elementary students throughout the day. • People age 90+ will be recognized at a dinner on May 20 at noon. The public is invited, and the meal cost is just $4, with our guests eating for free. • A party will take place at River City Extreme on May 29 at 11:30 a.m. and will include participants from 3 senior centers. The party includes lunch, bingo, card tournaments, dessert, refreshments and a lot of fun. The current royalty and Miss Monticello candidates will be at the senior center to play bingo with participants on June 26 at 1 p.m. People age 55+ can attend and are asked to sign up in advance. There will be cash prizes for game winners, and everyone can enjoy strawberry shortcake. Grandparents can bring their grandchildren to the senior center on July 24 at 1 p.m. to play bingo. There will be cash prizes for winners and root beer floats for all. Call the senior center to sign up at no charge. Thanks to 4 local restaurants, noon meals are served at the senior center Tuesday -Friday. Meals are provided by Chin Yuen, Russell's on the Lake, VFW Post 8731, and Cornerstone Cafe. The cost is $4 and those age 55+ and spouse of any age can dine . Please sign up at least one day in advance by 1 p.m. and pay for meals ordered. Thank you to the restaurants for providing these delicious meals! Apr 27: Spring Recycling Day Sam - 1pm at the commuter parking lot Apr 27: Just Drive Day gam - Noon at the Monti Middle School May 11: Community Center Pet Expo gam - Noon in the MCC gymnasium May 23: Farmers Market Opening Day 3:30-7pm in the library parking lot Jun 8: Walk In' Roll gam - 1pm (Pathway from CentraCare to West Bridge Park) Jun 27: Music on the Mississippi MoDeLL 7-9:15pm in West Bridge Park Jul 10: Chamber's Party in the Park 5:00 - 9:00 p.m. at West Bridge Park Aug 2: Movie in the Park "Smallfoot" Dusk at Pioneer Park Aug 16: Movie in the Park "Lego Movie 2" Dusk at Montiview Park Aug 17: Monticello Lions Brewfest 3-7pm at West Bridge Park COMMUNITY EVENTS QUICK GUIDE A glance at some of the community events you don't want to miss this spring and summer! May 18: All -City Garage Sale Contact the Monticello Times for info. May 27: Memorial Day Observances Contact the VFW or American Legion for details. May 30: Music on the Mississippi Shane Martin Band 7pm-9:15pm in West Bridge Park Jul 11: Community Center Block Party 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. on the south side of the community center Jul 11-14: Riverfest Event Listing: www.monticelloriverfest.com Jul 25: Music on the Mississippi Rhino 7-9:15pm in West Bridge Park Aug 22: Music on the Mississippi Outside Recess 7-9:15pm in West Bridge Park Sep 12: Rotary's Taste of the Towns 5:30-8:30pm in the parking lot at 3rd and Walnut Street 2019 1 Spring & Summer 19 ( ITY�llo0' Visit www.ci.monticello.mn.us/utilitybilling for more information about your utility bill, utility policies, Montice`Nater quality and more! UTILITIES Questions for Utility Billing? Please leave a message at 763-271-3228 & our staff will return your call! Enroll Today & Save! Residents receive a $1.00 discount off of every utility bill by paying with ACH - plus you never have to worry about a late fee! You can sign up and save by filling out the form available at City Hall or at: www.ci.monticello.mn.us/utilitybilling Residents can save another 500 per utility bill by signing up for e -bills. Visit our website and click on "Pay My Utility Bill" to register! May 2019 June 2019 The Garbage & Recycling Collection Schedule is shown below. Your collection day is determined by your house location. MONDAY: North of 1-94 & west from the center of Minnesota Street. WEDNESDAY: South of 1-94 & east of Edmonson Avenue. THURSDAY: North of 1-94 & east from center of Minnesota Street to Gillard Avenue. South of 1-94 & west from Edmonson Avenue, including, Kjellberg's Mobile Home Parks. • Monticello's contracted garbage hauler is Advanced Disposal. • City garbage/recycling carts must be used, and carts need to be curbside by 7:00 a.m. on your scheduled collection day. • Garbage is collected weekly. Recycling is collected every other week on your garbage day. • Garbage only weV are highlighted in green. Garbage/recycling weeks are highlighted in yellow. • Holidays observed by the hauler are shaded in navy blue and pick up after holidays will be delayed one day for the remainder of the week. July 2019 August 2019 September 2019 October 2019 November 2019 December 2019