Burnsville City Manager Craig Ebeling to Retire March 29

195864_WinterNewsletter_B_1 1/7/13 10:21 AM Page 1
Bulletin
Winter • 2013 • Volume 23 •No. 1
Page 2
• Burnsville Business Corner
• Burnsville Makes Property
Upkeep Priority in 2013
Burnsville City Manager Craig Ebeling
to Retire March 29
Burnsville City Manager
Craig Ebeling - the
self-proclaimed
“country boy” from
southwestern
Minnesota - has spent
a majority of his career
serving Burnsville,
including the last
10 years as the City’s
top administrator.
Page 3
• Burnsville Residents
Build Community
• Burnsville Logo Gets Makeover
• Providing Efficient Government
• Volunteer Spotlight
• 2012 Election Results
Pages 4-5
Special Section:
Safety Issue
• Burnsville Police Captain
Eric Gieseke Named New Burnsville
Chief of Police
• Burnsville, Other Agencies Test Skills at
Water Treatment Plant ‘Mock Emergency’
• Mobile Volunteer Network
• Sewer Gas Does More Than Stink
• Renew Pet Licenses
• New Training Facility in Works for
South Metro Firefighters
• City To Improve Hydrants in 2013
• 2013 Busy Year for Roadwork
Page 6
• Burnsville Performing Arts
Center 2012-2013
• Burnsville Recreation Calendar
Now, like any good western,
Ebeling has decided to ride off into the sunset, having announced
March 29 as his final day at City Hall.
“I could not imagine a better place to serve in government than in
this City,” said Ebeling when he announced his upcoming retirement
last November.
Ebeling was hired as Burnsville’s sixth City Manager in 2003.
He began his career with the City in 1987 as Assistant City Engineer.
Over the years he rose through the ranks at City Hall - first promoted
to City Engineer in 1988, and then promoted to Deputy City Manager
for Parks/Planning/Public Works in 1993. From 1995 to 2001, Ebeling
took a job in the private sector as a Regional Office/Client Services
Manager for Howard R. Green Company, but in 2001, he returned to
Burnsville as the City’s Director of Development & Redevelopment. He
served in that position for two years before becoming City Manager.
“When I was still in Public Works, I remember one night we had a
terrific rain and wind storm,” said Ebeling when asked about a
moment that stood out in his long career. “I came in at 11 p.m., after
the storm had already started, and all hell was breaking loose. The
Fire Department was responding to downed power lines and cars
underwater. Police were responding to accidents and 9-1-1 calls.
Public Works was trying to make sure that the storm sewers were
working, and barricading streets that were under water. Everybody
pulled together to make sure that nobody got hurt, and that the City
kept functioning. I was so darn proud to be working on that team that
worked so hard through the night. I still get that same sense of pride
when we are doing our best to provide service to our residents.”
As City Manager, Ebeling has been a champion of partnerships, working
with both private entities and other public organizations. With Ebeling
at the reigns, Burnsville has consistently maintained a high financial
rating, been a leader in using technology to improve City services, and
has seen continued growth of its business community.
The Burnsville City Council has hired an executive search firm to
coordinate the search process for a new City Manager, and hopes to
have a replacement hired by April 1, 2013.
Page 7
• Recycle Your Holiday Lights
and Cords
• ‘Green’ Seminars and Programs
for Seniors 62+
• Free ‘Blue Thumb’ Workshop Offers
Ideas for Native Plant Gardens
• Feed the Birds, Not the Deer
Page 8
• City Council Passes 2013 Budget
• 2013 Utility Rates
PARKING NOTICE:
Burnsville Does Not
Allow Overnight Parking
On City Streets From
2 to 6 a.m.
Comments and questions about this issue
of the Burnsville Bulletin can be sent by
mail to the City Manager or by email to
comments@ci.burnsville.mn.us or by phone
to 952- 895-4468.
Follow the City of Burnsville on Facebook at
facebook.com/cityofburnsville, Twitter at
twitter.com/burnsvillemn and YouTube at
YouTube.com/cityofburnsvillemn
What’s Your Vision for Local Media and Cable?
City to hold focus groups, for public input on cable and community television
What's your vision for local media and cable – now and
for the next 10-15 years? It’s not just about TV anymore!
Bring your ideas and learn how cable franchising opens doors
such as:
In February, the City is providing an opportunity for residents, business
owners and community group representatives to help determine the
future of community communications and provide feedback on the
current state of cable and technology in Burnsville. Public participation
is needed!
• Building community through TV, media and technology
• Access to media services for everyone
• Opportunities for live broadcasts throughout the community
• Local media by, for and about the people of Burnsville
Visit www.burnsville.org/cablefranchise to RSVP for any of the focus groups listed below or learn more about the City’s cable franchise renewal
process. You may also call 952-895-4400 to RSVP.
INTEREST GROUP
DATE
First and third Tuesdays of the month after
the first Monday
City Council Worksessions
Second Tuesday of the month after the
first Monday
LOCATION
Local Government Departments, Agencies & Boards
Tuesday, Feb. 26
9:30-11:30 a.m.
Burnsville City Hall, 100 Civic Center Parkway
Arts, Culture, Music & Heritage Organizations
Tuesday, Feb. 26
2:30-4:30 p.m.
Burnsville City Hall, 100 Civic Center Parkway
Health and Human Service Organizations, Agencies
& Seniors
Wednesday, Feb. 27
9:30-11:30 a.m.
Diamondhead Ed. Center, 200 W. Burnsville Parkway
K-12 Schools, Teachers, Staff & Parents
Wednesday, Feb. 27
4 - 6 p.m.
Burnsville High School, 600 Highway 13 E.
Nonprofit, Community & Faith-Based Organizations
Thursday, Feb. 28
1 - 3 p.m.
Diamondhead Ed. Center, 200 W. Burnsville Parkway
Business, Civic & Neighborhood Organizations
Thursday, Feb. 28
6 - 8 p.m.
Burnsville City Hall, 100 Civic Center Parkway
City Meetings
City Council
TIME
*FOCUS GROUPS ARE ARRANGED BY INTEREST GROUP - BUT ALL GROUPS ARE IDENTICAL. YOU ARE INVITED TO ANY GROUP THAT FITS YOUR SCHEDULE.
Focus groups are free, and refreshments will be provided. RSVPs must be received by Feb. 22. In addition to providing for public, education and
government television programming, Burnsville’s Cable Franchise Agreement provides close to $1 million in revenue to the City each year.
Planning Commission
Second and fourth Mondays of the month
Parks and Natural Resources
Commission
First Monday of the month
Economic Development Commission
Second Wednesday in January, March, May,
July, September and November
Performing Arts Center Commission
Fourth Wednesday of odd-numbered months
Meetings are subject to change and
cancellation. Unless noted, all meetings will be
televised on Burnsville Civic Channel 16 and
streamed at www.burnsville.org live.
Burnsville City Council
Elizabeth Kautz
Bill Coughlin
Dan Kealey
Suzanne Nguyen
Mary Sherry
Mayor
Council Member
Council Member
Council Member
Council Member
City Manager
Craig Ebeling
Printed on recycled paper
Mayor/City Council
Message Center
City of Burnsville
Burnsville Bulletin
952-895-4403
100 Civic Center Parkway,
Burnsville, MN 55337-3817
email:
council@ci.burnsville.mn.us
Internet:
www.burnsville.org
Cable Television:
Burnsville Community Television
www.burnsville.tv
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195864_WinterNewsletter_B_1 1/7/13 10:21 AM Page 2
Burnsville Business Corner:
Burnsville Development Update
The former Menards store located
at 3100 Highway 13 W. is being
converted into a multi-tenant
building. In October, Fairchild
Equipment purchased the building
from Menard, Inc. and will occupy
42,000 square feet for sales and
service. Durham School Services and NAPA Auto Parts
will also be moving into the building in the near future.
Dirt Piles Equal Progress
Work will take place in 2013 and 2014 to
upgrade the County Road 5 and Highway 13
interchange in Burnsville.
As part of the project, Highway 13 will be lowered by
20 feet - resulting in significant amounts of excess dirt.
This presents a unique opportunity for a portion of the
Minnesota River Quadrant (MRQ), which has soil that is
too poor for development
in many areas.
future City street projects) will be stockpiled in the area.
Poor soil from the Lady Bird Lane/ DuPont Avenue area
will also be removed and stockpiled. Contractors will
then mix clean soil with the poor soil, making it useable
in other development projects. Finally, crews will replace
the removed poor soil (from Lady Bird Lane/DuPont
Avenue) with clean soil from 5/13, leaving the site
ready for development.
This soil remediation project should progress over a 10-15 year
period, with some redevelopment
also occurring during that time.
With the excess soil from
the 5/13 project, the area
near Lady Bird Lane and
DuPont Avenue can take
part in an innovative
redevelopment plan that
involves replacing poor
soil with soil that can
support construction.
The former Menards building on Highway 13 will be repurposed and
used by multiple companies in 2013.
The Walser Automotive Group will redevelop the
existing Honda dealership at 14800 Buck Hill Road.
The existing new car building will be demolished and
replaced with a 50,000-square-foot facility that will
include a new car showroom, sales, parts and service.
For more information on development projects contact
the City's Planning Department at 952-895-4455.
Excess soil from the 5/13
project (and possibly from
The stockpiled soil will be in the
area for about 10 years. When
you see dirt piles in the MRQ,
think progress, and envision the
new development that will occur!
For more information on the
Minnesota River Quadrant visit
www.burnsville.org/MRQ or call
952-895-4454.
A rendering of what Burnsville’s Minnesota River Quadrant (located between
Highway 13 and I-35W) could look like with development over the next 20-30 years.
Welcome to These New Burnsville Businesses
• CVS Pharmacy
• Doc Popcorn
• Droolin Moose Gourmet Chocolate
• Durham Bus Service
• Foldcraft
• Frontier
Communications Retail
• Great Lakes Coin &
Collectables
• High Five Bar & Grill
• Hogue Vein and
Cosmetic Surgery
• Hurricane Grill & Wings
• Perfect Brow Bar
• Steak America
• Tawakal Restaurant
• The Cages
• The Rack Bar & Grill
• Valley Ridge
Senior Housing
• Walmart
If you have a new business in Burnsville, contact Economic Development Coordinator Skip Nienhaus at 952-895-4454 or
skip.nienhaus@ci.burnsville.mn.us to schedule a welcome visit.
Burnsville Makes Property Upkeep Priority in 2013
City Council Asks Residents to Help Keep Neighborhoods, Rental Properties Clean and Safe
Burnsville residents have always held the
condition of their neighborhoods - and the pride
of ownership in their homes - as high priorities.
Renting out your townhome, condo,
single-family or manufactured home?
The City has also made it a priority to promote home
ownership, encourage maintenance of existing houses
and to try to keep home values high. Beginning in 2013,
the City will begin two new initiatives meant to provide timely
responses to property maintenance issues that are unsafe,
unsanitary or infringe on the rights of others.
If you are planning to convert your condo, townhome
or single-family home to a rental property, please
note that the City now requires a $500 conversion fee,
which covers the cost of the home’s first year rental
license and initial inspection.
Rental Licensing and Inspections
As a renter, you will be asked to grant access to
your rental unit every three years for a property
maintenance inspection. These inspections will be
scheduled with your landlord well in advance,
and inspectors will only be looking for property
maintenance issues, fire code violations and safety
hazards that should be remedied by the building
owner/manager.
As of Jan. 1, the City now requires that all rental property
owners (of both single- and multi-family dwellings) pay an
annual fee to be licensed as a rental business.
By charging a “user
fee” to operate a
rental business in
Burnsville, the City
can cover the costs
of rental inspections
that will help make
sure that landlords
Burnsville building and fire inspectors will
are meeting the
be conducting scheduled inspections of the
quality-of-life needs community’s rental properties in 2013.
of their tenants and
neighboring residents.
The City will issue (or renew existing) rental licenses after
initially inspecting the property. Future inspections will be
scheduled to ensure that all buildings and units are properly
maintained. Owners of multi-family apartment complexes
will also be required to participate in an annual fire
inspection of their building’s common areas.
After the initial inspection, the City will work with the rental
owner or manager to fix any issues that arise in a
timely manner. If the property continually does not meet
minimum health, safety and building standards, the City
may issue a citation or fine, or as a last resort, withhold
the owner’s rental license.
2
I’m a renter - how does this affect me?
For more information on Burnsville’s rental licensing
requirements visit www.burnsville.org/rental or call
952-895-4440.
Property Maintenance
The City Council has also asked Burnsville property
maintenance inspectors to take a more proactive approach to
property maintenance issues in the city. Inspectors will begin
periodically canvassing neighborhoods to identify code
violations that can
prove to be unsafe,
unsanitary or
detrimental to the
neighborhood. It is
then the goal of
inspectors to work
with residents to
bring any property
maintenance issues
Overgrown lawns and boulevards are one of the
into compliance with most common issues dealt with by Burnsville
State and City code. Property Maintenance Inspectors.
Issues that will be looked at by inspectors include:
• Unmowed lawns
• Broken windows or doors
• Stalled or improperly parked vehicles and trailers
• Accumulating rubbish
• Unscreened trash containers
• Poor maintenance of home exteriors, roofs, sheds and fences
• Improper exterior storage
Inspections will be conducted from the streets and sidewalks
in front of homes, and homeowners will be given a
reasonable amount of time to remedy any issues. The City’s
No. 1 goal is to work with property owners toward compliance
of any property maintenance issues.
For more information on Burnsville’s property maintenance
initiatives visit www.burnsville.org/property or call
952-895-4440.
Chris Forslund
Hired as Rental
Licensing & Property
Maintenance
Coordinator
In October, Chris Forslund was
hired to oversee Burnsville’s
Rental Licensing & Property
Maintenance Division. Forslund
is in his 17th year of public
service, having previously worked for the cities of
St. Cloud, Crystal and Brooklyn Park, as well as the
State of Minnesota. He holds a Bachelor’s degree
from St. Cloud State University and a Master's in
Public Health from the University of Minnesota.
Forslund is a registered environmental health
specialist/sanitarian. His previous positions have
been in the areas of: field inspections, safety
coordination, construction plan review, program
planning and supervision for food, beverage and
lodging, rental inspections, swimming pool inspections, and zoning and general code enforcement.
195864_WinterNewsletter_B_1 1/7/13 10:21 AM Page 3
Burnsville Residents Build Community
Two individuals and one community organization were recognized in
October for contributions that will have a lasting impact on the quality of
life in Burnsville.
Members of the Burnsville City Council
presented their 14th-Annual
”Community Builder” awards to:
Sue Borne, Metcalf Junior High
Borne was the lead teacher in Independent School District
(ISD) 191’s “Project Lead the Way,” which she created to
engage students in the engineering profession at an
early age. The program, started at Metcalf by Borne,
is now taught district-wide.
Shawn Solem, Owner of Zombie Board Shop
Solem has owned Zombie Board Shop since it opened
in Burnsville in August 2005. He has dedicated and
volunteered countless hours and resources to Burnsville’s
youth by organizing and supporting free Thursday night
sessions for local youth snowboard enthusiasts at Buck
Hill. Solem also volunteers on the Burnsville Skate Park
Committee, and has decided to donate a portion of every
skateboard deck he sells in his shop to bettering the park.
Providing Efficient
Government
Agenda Management Solution Increases
Efficiency, Reduces Cost
In early 2012, Burnsville City Clerk
Macheal Brooks spent between
10 and 20 hours each week
manually compiling agendas,
minutes and background materials
for City Council and other City
meetings. Now, she is already shaving
at least two hours per week from that
time - and the City is saving close to $7,000 annually thanks to an automated agenda management solution
provided by SIRE Technologies (now Hyland Software Inc.).
The new software has allowed the City to streamline its
process for creating agenda items and compiling
background materials for City meetings. It has reduced
the time needed to publish agendas to the website and
send out email notifications to “one click.” And, it has
provided more consistency among printed materials and
flexibility for working away from the office.
Sue Borne, Metcalf Junior High (second from the left).
Shawn Solem, Zombie Board Shop (second from the left)
Burnsville Women of Today
Chartered in 1990, the Women of Today work toward service, growth and fellowship in the community. The group currently
has more than 40 members from the Burnsville area. The chapter has helped with community events and raised funds
for worthy community causes for more than 20 years.
The new software
also saves nearly
30,000 copies
from being
printed - and
eliminates the
need for the
City to pay
separate “video
streaming” software to show meeting videos online. (The
agenda management software included its own video
streaming component - and costs $6,600 less per year
than the previous video software.)
Representatives of the Burnsville Women of Today
A smoother process, more service and a cheaper price
tag - now that’s efficiency!
For more information on this year’s award winners visit www.burnsville.org/communitybuilder. Nominations are accepted
from the community and reviewed by the City Council. For more information on nominations contact Macheal Brooks,
City Clerk at 952-895-4490.
To view public meeting agendas, minutes and videos visit
www.burnsville.org/meetings.
Burnsville Logo Gets Makeover
Beginning this year, Burnsville residents will
start to notice an updated look to the City of
Burnsville logo on publications, mailings and
around town.
The City’s original logo, derived from
a flag developed as part of the
Bicentennial Celebration in 1976,
has been used by the City since the
early 1980s. After more than 30 years,
Burnsville’s City Council decided
that it was time for a “refresh”opting for a variation of the logo that
reflected the past, while setting the
stage for the future.
coniferous trees, as well as the water that has long
identified Burnsville, was redrawn with a modern design
and font. The logo will be incorporated over the long-term and only when items are due
to be replaced. That means
residents won’t see the old
logo disappear overnight.
Things like letterhead,
business cards, vehicle decals
or signs will be replaced with
the new logo only after the old
Local designer Greg Preslicka of Preslicka Studios
supplies run out - or the item
refreshed the City’s existing logo to give it a
modern look and feel while maintaining its original
is due for its normal
imagery.
replacement. Other things,
like the City’s water towers for example, will keep the old
The updated logo, which maintains the deciduous and
logo for quite some time.
VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT:
Peg Fink & Ed Sanders
Peg Fink and Ed Sanders are the perfect
complement when it comes to volunteering.
She likes to be in front of the camera and he likes to
be behind it!
Peg has been the host of the community television program
“Burnsville Senior Living” since it began in 2006. She has
hosted 17 programs and interviewed police officers,
firefighters and doctors. Peg says that her experience with
Burnsville Senior Living has been very gratifying, and it is
all worthwhile if she can help make aging a little easier.
Ed came on board as the show’s volunteer videographer in
2010. He records the interviews and edits the program. He
has been working with video equipment since 1962, and
says he enjoys sharing his skills by volunteering and
meeting interesting people.
Thank you to
Peg and Ed
for getting
important
information
out to
Burnsville
seniors
through
community
television!
Ed Sanders and Peg Fink volunteer for the program
“Burnsville Senior Living,” cablecast on Burnsville
Community Television.
Burnsville
Senior Living
replays on Burnsville Community Television (BCTV)
Channel 14. Visit www.burnsville.tv for schedule information.
LEDs Light Up Parking Lot
Last fall, the City retrofitted 11-1,000-watt incandescent
lights in the Burnsville Ice Center parking lot with energy
efficient LEDs. Between energy rebates and reduced
energy use, this was one of the most cost-effective
lighting retrofits the City has done to date. The estimated
energy cost savings is approximately $1,780 per year.
New LED lights in the Burnsville Ice Center parking lot will save the City
$1,780 per year on energy costs.
2012 Election Results
A total of 33,978 Burnsville residents
voted for local, state and national offices
plus other issues during the Nov. 6 General
Election - approximately 79.5 percent of
the City's eligible voters.
Incumbent Burnsville Mayor Elizabeth Kautz
(16,600 votes) was elected to her seventh term after
defeating challenger Jerry Willenburg (12,379 votes).
Kautz, first elected in 1994, will serve a four-year
term expiring Dec. 31, 2016.
In the four-person race for two City Council seats,
incumbent Mary Sherry (13,606 votes) was the top
vote-getter. Sherry will serve her second term on the
Council after first being elected in 2008. She will be
joined by first-time Council Member Suzanne Nguyen
(9,702 votes). Both will serve terms that expire Dec. 31,
2016. Steve Cherney (9,396 votes) and Bruce Johnson
(9,214 votes) finished third and fourth in vote tallies.
For more information, visit
www.burnsville.org/elections.
3
SAFETY SAFETY
195864_WinterNewsletter_B_1 1/7/13 10:21 AM Page 4
Burnsville Police Captain
Eric Gieseke Named New
Burnsville Chief of Police
As a long-time
member of the
Burnsville
Police
Department,
Eric Gieseke will
be the first to
tell you that he
wasn’t thinking
about becoming
Police Chief
Burnsville’s sixth Chief of Police, Eric Gieseke when he began
his law enforcement career as a Cadet in 1989.
Now, 23 years later, he says he is excited to be Burnsville’s
sixth Chief of Police, after being promoted when former chief
Bob Hawkins retired on Nov. 30.
“I am extremely honored to have been offered this position,”
said Gieseke. “This City has invested a tremendous amount
of time, resources and energy into my career. Now I can take
this opportunity to truly return the investment and give back
to the City that has given me so much.”
Since his time as a police cadet, Gieseke has worked his way
through the ranks of Patrol Officer, Sergeant and Captain.
Prior to his promotion, he had served as the Department’s
Captain in charge of operations since 2006.
As Captain, Gieseke managed and directed the Department’s
day-to-day operations - including providing leadership to
eight patrol sergeants, 40 sworn officers, two K-9 officers
and a number of additional police personnel. He also played
a key role in the department’s use of technology, serving as
the project lead during the introduction and implementation
of the City’s on-officer cameras. (Burnsville’s Police
Department was the first department in Minnesota to use
the technology.) As a Sergeant and Patrol Officer, Gieseke
was also active on Burnsville’s Emergency Action Group Tactical Team (SWAT).
Gieseke holds a Masters in Criminal Justice Leadership from
Concordia University in St. Paul, Minn., and a Bachelors in
Psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He is
also a graduate of the FBI National Academy in Quantico,
Va., and was named Burnsville Police Officer of the year in
2002 and Minnesota Police Officer of the Year in 2003.
Gieseke resides in Lakeville, Minn. with his wife and two
children.
With Gieseke’s promotion and the departure of former
Burnsville Police Captain Eric Werner to be Rosemount’s
Police Chief, Burnsville Police Sergeants Tanya Schwartz and
Jef Behnken were promoted to the Department’s two open
Police Captain positions.
Burnsville, Other Agencies Test
Skills at Water Treatment Plant
‘Mock Emergency’
A chemical spill at the
Burnsville Water Treatment
Plant results in a number
of victims - and a
coordinated effort by
multiple agencies to
save lives and contain
the situation.
That was the scenario on Oct. 4 when members of Burnsville
Police, Fire and Public Works - along with Fairview Ridges
Hospital and multiple neighboring agencies - performed a
real-time mock emergency response drill.
“The Police Department trains regularly for the more ‘routine’
types of calls,” said Burnsville Police Sgt. and Emergency
Management Coordinator Don Stenger. “Our Fire Department
also has an aggressive training program - but again, the
focus is usually on ‘routine’ events. An exercise like the one
at the Water Treatment Plant requires a response that is
anything but routine.”
4
The City of Burnsville, which relies on a detailed emergency
operations plan, trains with its Emergency Operations Center at
City Hall annually. The City occasionally holds more in-depth,
full-scale exercises (like the one at the Water Treatment Plant).
According to Stenger, these exercises prepare responders and
other City employees for high risk - low frequency events that
could take place in Burnsville.
“In emergency management, we always ‘plan for the worst
and hope for the best,’” said Stenger. “It’s important that
we create a scenario that, while extremely unlikely to occur,
prepares us for anything that could be thrown at us.
We then review how the exercise went, note the great work
that was done, as well as areas for improvement, and
provide additional training and equipment in the areas
needed. It’s all a part of the proactive emergency
preparedness culture we have fostered here in Burnsville.”
Responders from Burnsville’s mutual aid partners, including
Eagan, Apple Valley, Savage, Dakota County Special
Operations Team, Dakota Communications Center and
Fairview Ridges Hospital also took part in the exercise.
For more information on Burnsville’s Emergency Preparedness
Plan visit www.burnsville.org/prepare.
Mobile Volunteer
Network
Are you ready to get on the front lines to
help your community?
Take part in the action, and help Police and Fire
personnel during special events or in emergency
situations as a member of Burnsville’s Mobile
Volunteer Network (MVN).
MVN members are trained in:
• Crowd Control
• First Aid
• Search & Rescue
• Traffic Control
• More!
For more information or to volunteer call
952-895-4575 or email
amber.jacobson@ci.burnsville.mn.us.
Burnsville’s Mobile Volunteer Network is trained and called
upon to assist during numerous events and situations
throughout the community.
Sewer Gas Does
More Than Stink
Sewer gases from dry plumbing
traps can be a problem, especially
during the winter months.
Sewer gas is a foul-smelling combination
of gases (primarily methane) found in the
sewage system. It is produced by decaying
organic material, residential and
industrial waste.
Some people have described it as the smell of "rotten
eggs." Carbon monoxide, which is odorless, colorless and
deadly, is another byproduct. These dangerous gases are
highly flammable, and when inhaled, can eventually
suffocate a victim.
Sewer gas can also
cause a variety of
symptoms that
could be confused with
other illnesses, such as
the flu. Symptoms
include headache, nausea, lightheadedness, dizziness,
disorientation, depression, hallucinations,
convulsions or loss of consciousness. Some reports of
"ghost sightings" have actually proven to be the result of
the person's undetected exposure to sewer gas.
Drains that are seldomly used in a home are more likely to
become a hazard. Residents should run water down the
drains of laundry sinks; floor drains in basements, garages
and seldom-used guest bathrooms; and flush toilets that
are not used often.
If you believe that you smell sewer gas or natural gas in
your home, get out immediately and call 9-1-1. In both
instances, you are in a potentially hazardous environment.
Info Courtesy of eHow.com
Renew Pet Licenses
All cats, dogs and domesticated ferrets
over four-months old must be licensed
every two years in Burnsville.
The City of Burnsville contracts with American
Boarding Kennels (1102 Highway 13 E.) for animal
control issues. License applications are available at
their location, the Burnsville Police Department and
online at www.burnsville.org/pets.
A two-year license is $20 for a spayed or neutered
pet, and $30 for non-spayed or neutered animals.
First responders arrive on the scene of a mock emergency training at the Burnsville Water Treatment Plant in October.
More information at www.burnsville.org/pets.
195864_WinterNewsletter_B_1 1/7/13 10:21 AM Page 5
New Training Facility in Works
for South Metro Firefighters
Since 1987, the cities
of Apple Valley,
Burnsville, Lakeville
and Eagan (A.B.L.E.)
have shared a joint
fire training facility in Burnsville.
The A.B.L.E. Facility, located off of River Ridge
Boulevard, has hosted trainings for thousands
of firefighters, police officers and other first
responders. However, deteriorating walls,
corrosion, and poor ventilation have rendered
the facility’s burn building and training tower
unusable in recent years.
Last fall, the City Councils for the four A.B.L.E.
cities approved a $1.6 million dollar shared
construction bid to tear down the existing burn
building and tower and replace them with a
state-of-the-art structure. The new facility will
meet training needs for decades to come.
Construction of the new burn building, which will
be built on the same location as the former, began
last fall. The new building will be four times as
large as the former stand-alone burn building,
and will incorporate the functions of a burn
building and training tower into one single facility.
The new building will allow for burning on
multiple levels. It will also mimic the construction
of large commercial and residential buildings that
are typical in the south metro. Construction is
scheduled to be completed this summer.
A rendition of the new A.B.L.E. burn building being constructed in Burnsville for use by
Apple Valley, Burnsville, Lakeville and Eagan first responders.
City to Improve Hydrants in 2013
Did you know that it takes Burnsville
firefighters between two and three minutes to
connect to a fire hydrant during a fire?
hydrants. In an attempt to eliminate private hydrant failures,
the City will require that private hydrant owners provide
documentation of hydrant testing/certification in 2013.
That’s fast - but what if it could be faster? Did you also
know that between 15 and 20 percent of the privately owned hydrants used by the Fire Department don’t work?
That’s a problem.
Storz Nozzles
When these trends began to appear, the City started two
initiatives it hopes will enhance the ability to protect life
and property from fire.
Private Hydrant Inspections
Minnesota Fire Code requires that all fire hydrants be tested
yearly. There are more than 4,000 fire hydrants in Burnsville
- one-third of which are privately owned (primarily on
commercial property or in multi-unit complexes.) While
the City tracks and tests all public hydrants, the Fire
Department has very few records on the City’s 1,500 private
For more information on private hydrant
inspections visit www.burnsville.org/privatehydrants.
(installed) for private hydrant owners. That cost would then
be assessed to the property.
For more information on Storz nozzles or participating in the
SPHUP visit www.burnsville.org/storz.
Also in 2013, the City will begin updating all public
hydrants with new “Storz” technology. Storz nozzles will
allow firefighters to save between 60 and 90 seconds
when connecting to hydrants because their hoses will no
longer need additional adaptors.
The Storz Private Hydrant Upgrade Program (SPHUP) will
allow private hydrant owners to voluntarily join the City
initiative to upgrade the hose connections on their private
fire hydrants. By joining the City initiative, cost for the
hydrant upgrades will be approximately $250 per hydrant
Storz nozzles on fire hydrants allow firefighters to save 60 to 90 seconds
when connecting their hoses.
2013 Busy Year for Roadwork
MnDOT
I-35E and I-35 Concrete Pavement Repairs and
Bridge Maintenance
Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT)
will make repairs on I-35E from Cliff Road to the
I-35W/I-35E split. They will make similar repairs on
I-35 from the split south to County Road 2 in Elko.
Traffic will be one lane in each direction for a large
part of the summer. Southbound I-35E is also
expected to be closed from County Road 42 to
Crystal Lake Road in May for bridge work.
For more information contact
Kirsten.Klein@state.mn.us or 651-234-7506 or visit
www.dot.state.mn.us/metro/projects/I35elktoeagan/index.html
for updates.
Dakota County
County Road 5/Highway 13 Interchange Project
Improvements to the State Trunk Highway (TH) 13
and County Road 5 intersection are planned during
2013 and 2014. Work north and south of TH 13 will
take place in 2013, and mainline TH 13 work is
scheduled for 2014. TH 13 is expected to remain
open during construction, although lane reductions
and reduced access will occur.
County Road 38 and County Road 30 Resurfacing
Dakota County will resurface McAndrews Road
(County Road 38) from County Road 5 to County
Road 11, and Diffley Road (County Road 30) from
TH 13 to just west of Pilot Knob Road in Eagan.
Signals will also be replaced at McAndrews Road
and Nicollet Avenue. These roads will generally
remain open during construction, but there will be
lane closures and other construction disturbances
that will create occasional delays.
For more information contact hwy@co.dakota.mn.us
or call 952-891-7100.
Residents in potential construction areas will be invited
to attend a public hearing in March or April when the
projects are considered for final approval by the City Council.
If a project is approved, construction will take place over the
summer months. Residents who will be assessed for street
projects in their neighborhood will have an opportunity to
comment at a final project public hearing in September.
City of Burnsville
City Street Reconstruction
Approximately $6.5 million has been dedicated to
reconstructing four miles of aging City roadways,
and resurfacing another mile-and-a-half in 2013.
In Burnsville, street reconstruction is outlined in a
five-year Capital Improvement Plan. This plan
prioritizes roadway improvements based on factors
including age and condition of the roadway, and the
replacement schedules of utilities located under
the street.
Five areas in the City are being considered for
reconstruction or rehabilitation in 2013. (See map)
Reconstruction:
• 12th Avenue Area
• Friendship Area
• West Preserve Area
Rehabilitation/Resurfacing:
• Grand Avenue Area
• 143rd Street Area
City of Burnsville 2013 Proposed Roadway Improvements
For more information and to sign up for updates on
City road projects visit www.burnsville.org/streetrecon
or call 952-895-4534.
5
195864_WinterNewsletter_B_1 1/7/13 10:21 AM Page 6
Burnsville Performing Arts
Center 2012-2013 Series
This series supported by the Burnsville Performing Arts Center Angel Fund
Mid Life Vices
Thursday, March 7 at 7:30 p.m.
Ticket Information: Orchestra Level $39 • Balcony $34
A $3 per ticket discount is available for groups of ten or more
An original “Babes Brand” of musical theater, these four, multi-talented gal pals - each a brilliant writer-musician-comedienne - share the stage
with luxurious harmonies and sophisticated (never blue) stand-up comedy. Mid Life Vices is a celebration of “Whine, Women and Song!” that
hysterically journals the lives of the Baby Boomer generation.
Street Beat
Friday, March 8 at 8 p.m.
Ticket Information: Orchestra Level $34 • Students $17
A $3 per ticket discount is available for groups of ten or more
Street Beat is a kinetic, maximum energy explosion of urban rhythm and dance, utilizing junk, household items and found objects for drums and
percussion and featuring the pinnacle of modern “street” choreography. Street Beat is a high-energy explosion of urban rhythm, hip hop moves,
astonishing break dance acrobatics and a full evening of original entertainment for all ages.
Other shows:
Tracy Morgan: Excuse My French Tour
Main Stage | Wednesday, March 20 at 7 p.m.
Ticket Information: Reserved tickets $49.50
As a stand-up comic best known for his work on NBC’s “30 Rock” and “Saturday Night Live,” Tracy Morgan was first
introduced to television audiences in his role as Hustleman on the hit comedy series “Martin.” He went on to join SNL in
1996 where he appeared for seven seasons and created memorable characters such as Astronaut Jones and Brian
Fellows. After leaving SNL, Morgan also went on to star in his own comedy series “The Tracy Morgan Show” and voiced
Spoonie Luv on Comedy Central’s “Crank Yankers.”
Burnsville Performing Arts Center Event Calendar:
Saturday, Jan. 26 at 7:30 p.m.:
Wednesday, Feb 6 at 7 p.m.:
Sunday, Feb. 10 at 2 p.m.:
The Fab Four
Colleen Raye – An Evening at the Cabaret
Dakota Valley Symphony –
Grieg meets Verdi: Requiem
Thursday, Feb. 14 at 7:30 p.m.: The First Kiss – K-TWIN 96.3
Valentine’s Day Concert
Feb. 15-18 and Feb. 22-24:
Chameleon Theatre Circle presents:
Completely Hollywood (Abridged)
Thursday, March 7 at 7:30 p.m.: Mid Life Vices
Friday, March 8 at 8 p.m.:
Thursday, March 14:
Sunday, March 17 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.:
Wednesday, March 20 at 7 p.m.:
March 22- April 7:
Saturday, March 30 at 7:30 p.m.:
Street Beat
Bite of Burnsville Presented by the
Burnsville Chamber of Commerce
Dakota Valley Symphony – The Archangel: Corelli & Friends
Tracy Morgan: Excuse My French
Chameleon Theatre Circle presents:
The Mystery of Edwin Drood
Ralphie May: Too Big To Ignore
For ticket information visit www.burnsvillepac.com or call 952-895-4680.
Burnsville Recreation Calendar
Outdoor Skating and
Warming Houses
Burnsville has 13 park locations that
offer outdoor skating. Warming houses
are located at 12 sites (West Buck Hill
offers a pleasure rink only).
Warming House Hours (Weather Permitting):
Monday - Friday: 4-9 p.m.
Saturdays:
10 a.m.-9 p.m.
Sundays:
1-9 p.m.
For more information on outdoor rinks and snow removal
schedules visit www.burnsville.org/rinks.
Look for the Spring
Recreation Times
in mailboxes in March
6
Registration for summer recreation programs begins on March 1.
Sign up for these and other programs online at www.burnsville.org/recreation.
Kids of Summer
Adult Softball and Sand
Kids of Summer (KOS) is a playground
Volleyball
program for ages 6-11. Activities
include games, sports, story time,
arts and crafts, carnivals, water
games, activities and special events.
KOS will be offered from June 10 Aug. 15, and morning and afternoon sessions are available.
Preschool Sports: T-ball and Soccer
These 18+ leagues are organized,
conducted and administered by a
professional staff with expertise in
league administration. Multiple
league nights and divisions available.
Individuals looking to join a team will be placed on a draft
list that is distributed to team managers.
A non-competitive atmosphere gives kids, ages 4-5, an
opportunity to work on good sportsmanship, fundamentals,
instructional drills and exercises.
• Summer Slow Pitch Softball:
Registration begins Feb. 1.
Season runs April through July.
Tennis lessons
• Mixed Summer Sand Volleyball:
Registration begins March 1.
Season runs May through July.
Ages 6-12 can learn skills such as scoring, gripping a
racket, forehand and backhand strokes, serving, and a
basic understanding of the game. Participants must
provide their own tennis racket.
For more info or to register visit www.burnsville.org/softball,
www.burnsville.org/volleyball or call 952-895-4500.
195864_WinterNewsletter_B_1 1/7/13 10:21 AM Page 7
‘Recycle Your Holidays’
Lights and Cords
Do you have holiday lights that no
longer work? Bought new lights and no longer want
the old ones?
Don’t toss them in the
trash - instead,
“Recycle Your Holidays”
by dropping off unwanted
lights to be recycled.
Since 2009, the Recycling
Association of Minnesota
has worked with
businesses and public
facilities to set up drop-off sites for lights and cords during the
holiday season, free of charge. Every part is recycled. The cords
are stripped down to collect the copper wire, and even the little
lights are broken down to reclaim the glass and metal.
Residents can drop off holiday lights through Jan. 31 at the
Burnsville Ice Center (251 Civic Center Parkway).
Broken or unwanted holiday lights and electrical cords -such
as extension cords - will be accepted for free. Cord adapters
and battery packs are not accepted.
Visit www.DakotaValleyRecycling.org for hours and a complete
list of drop-off locations in the area or call 952-895-4511.
Recycle CFLs
Compact fluorescent lights
(CFLs) last longer and use less
energy than incandescent
bulbs - but did you know that
they have to be recycled?
Fluorescent lights contain a
small amount of mercury,
which means they can’t go in
the garbage. Currently, only
two percent of CFLs actually get recycled.
You can properly dispose of CFLs (any size or typeno tubes accepted) in Burnsville at:
City Maintenance Facility
13713 Frontier Court
Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
If a CFL breaks, seal the pieces and glass
fragments in a sealable plastic bag before
bringing it in to recycle. Fluorescent tubes
must be brought to The Recycling Zone
(3365 Dodd Road, Eagan).
Free ‘Blue Thumb’ Workshop Offers
Ideas for Native Plant Gardens
‘Green’
Seminars and
Programs for
Seniors 62+
De-Clutter and Green Cleaning
There is a national movement of personal
downsizers -people who are simplifying their lives
by paring down possessions. Seniors age 62+ can
learn how to organize or dispose of unwanted
items, and even make money from “old junk.” Also,
learn how to make “green” household cleaners.
When: Thursday, Feb. 21; 10 - 11 a.m.
Where: Burnsville Senior Center
200 West Burnsville Parkway, Ste. 102
Cost:
Free
Registration deadline is Friday, Feb. 15.
The Dirt on Composting and
Spring Planting
Improve garden soil by making compost. Learn
about the importance of compost, how it’s used
in Burnsville’s rainwater gardens and how it can
be used in personal gardens. Also, make potting
soil and walk away with a potted plant to start
your own indoor herb garden.
When: Thursday, March 21; 10 - 11 a.m.
Where: Burnsville Senior Center
200 West Burnsville Parkway, Ste. 102
Cost:
Free
Registration deadline is Friday, March 15.
Call 952-895-4575 or email
amber.jacobson@ci.burnsville.mn.us to register.
A minimum of eight participants is required.
Going “blue” is catching on!
Blue Thumb Workshops provide the opportunity to
see how others in Burnsville have created native
gardens, rain gardens and native shoreline
stabilization projects that benefit local water quality.
Introductory workshops include dozens of affordable design options that
transform bland urban landscapes into beautiful retreats. They also touch on
the financial incentives available for these projects.
When:
March 4 or April 9 at 6:15 p.m.
Where:
Burnsville City Hall, 100 Civic Center Parkway
Burnsville residents can also attend the introductory
workshop in:
• Apple Valley on Feb. 28 or April 4
• Hastings on March 12
• South St. Paul on March 14
• Eagan on March 25
• Lakeville on March 27
• Farmington on April 1
• Mendota Heights on April 17
Appliance Removal Program
Burnsville residents 62+ are eligible to apply for
a grant through the City of Burnsville for the
removal of old appliances, electronics and/or
furniture from their home. Due to limited
financing, only residents who are financially or
physically unable to dispose of these items on
their own are eligible to apply.
Registration is required.
Visit www.dakotacountyswcd.org/bluethumb.html or call
651-480-7777 to sign up.
Native plant garden
Feed the Birds, Not the Deer
Feeding birds is a popular activity, especially in
winter. Offering the right food in the right way
helps keep birds healthy and discourages
unwanted visitors.
To attract the greatest variety of birds, offer black-oil sunflower
seeds in a tube or tray feeder. Hang a basket of suet to lure
woodpeckers and nuthatches, or try a thistle feeder full of
Niger (Nyjer) seed to draw in finches and pine siskins. Avoid
inexpensive seed mixes that have a high percentage of
less-appealing filler seeds such as milo and oats.
Don’t let your bird feeder become a deer feeder. Feeding deer is
not allowed in Burnsville, so bird feeders must be out of the
reach of deer - five feet or more above the ground. Do not place
any corn, seeds, fruit, vegetables, hay or other foods out for
deer. Living fruit trees and other live vegetation are exempt.
Here are more tips to keep in mind when feeding birds:
• Sweep up spilled birdseed to avoid attracting rodents, deer
and raccoons. Also, spilled seed can spoil and harm birds.
• Clean feeders regularly to avoid spreading disease.
• Discourage squirrels by using baffles and squirrel-resistant
feeders.
• Keep cats indoors - cats are natural predators and
kill birds.
Photo: 7.Goldfinch
For more information or to receive an application
call 952-895-4575.
Why can’t I feed
deer?
Feeding concentrates deer in a small area,
causing several problems including:
• Damage to structures and landscaping
• Over-browsing of native plants,
especially in forested areas
• Increased chance of vehicle-deer collisions
• Spread of disease among deer through
nose-to-nose contact and the sharing of
saliva-contaminated food
Cutline: American goldfinch perched on feeder.
Sidebar:
American goldfinch perched on feeder.
Buckthorn
White-tail deer are prevalent in Burnsville.
7
195864_WinterNewsletter_B_1 1/7/13 10:21 AM Page 8
City Council Passes 2013 Budget
The Burnsville City Council voted unanimously to
approve the City’s 2013 budget on Dec. 4.
City of Burnsville 2013
Sources of Revenue
In total, the City anticipates receiving $73 million in revenue
to cover its operational and capital (buildings, vehicles,
equipment, etc.) needs in 2013.
Of that $73 million, approximately 40 percent will come
from fees for services, 38 percent from the City’s property
tax and the remaining 22 percent from other revenues such as
licenses, permits, franchise agreements, other intergovernmental
agencies and transfers. These dollars are used to provide
important City services such as police and fire protection,
streets and utilities, water treatment and City parks.
40%
($29.2 Million)
Fees for
Services
38%
($27.5 Million)
Property
Taxes
22%
($16.1Million)
Lic., Permits,
Franchise and
Transfers
For 2013, the City decreased its overall budget by nearly 10 percent from 2012. This decrease was primarily
because the City will not receive the State funding it did in 2012 to pay for its commitment to the Highway 13 and
County Road 5 project, and postponing of the 12th Avenue Extension project. (The City budgets for capital projects
in the year they are scheduled - although large projects extend over more than one year.) The amount of property
tax dollars being collected by the City was held to a 2.5 percent increase, up from $26.8 million in 2012 to $27.5
million in 2013.
Highlights of the 2013 budget include:
• $5 million allocated for roadway reconstruction, repaving and improvement.
• $7 million allocated for utility (water and sewer) infrastructure repair and maintenance.
• Implementation of a rental licensing and property maintenance division at City Hall to assist in cleaning up
problem properties.
Where do my property tax dollars go?
The City of Burnsville is one of several governing entities who rely on property tax dollars to provide services. In
addition to the City (42%), your tax dollars also go to Dakota County (29%); your local school district (23%) and
other governing bodies (6%). In 2013, the City of Burnsville will collect approximately $27.5 million in property
taxes. Here’s how that money is spent.
2013 Utility Rates
Providing high quality water is a high priority,
and Burnsville has become more aggressive in
inspecting and testing the City’s water and
sewer infrastructure. Many parts of the system
are 30 to 40 years old.
To meet increasing demands on water infrastructure and
repair aging systems, residents will notice a slight increase
in their utility bills in 2013. These few added dollars per
household will go a long way in maintaining Burnsville’s
water and sewer system at a high level.
For more information on utility rates, eBilling and water
conservation visit www.burnsville.org/utilities.
The property tax system is complicated. To try and make
sense of it all, the following answer focuses on City taxes
ONLY. Put simply, a homeowner’s individual property tax
bill is impacted by three things:
1. Your home’s value compared to the total value of all
residential and commercial property in the City.
2. Changes to State law, such as the Market Value
Homestead Exclusion program and other property
tax credits.
3. The amount of money the City budgets to fund City
services, such as police, fire and public works.
The first factor is influenced by both the economy and
State law; the second by the State Legislature; and the
third by the individual taxing jurisdictions - in this case,
the City of Burnsville.
The total amount of commercial and residential property
value in the city determines the size of property tax “pie.”
In 2013, Burnsville’s total property tax value decreased by
5.3 percent, making the “pie” smaller. Because the “pie”
gets smaller when values decline, a homeowner may still
see a property tax increase even if the amount of taxes
levied by the City stays the same.
When property values are growing the “pie” grows. In that
case, the three factors noted above could result in a
decrease in your individual tax bill, even if the amount of
taxes collected by the City increases.
This year, home values in Burnsville decreased by an
average of 8.6 percent – a much greater decrease than
commercial properties. Thus, in reality, many homeowners
may see their property tax bill decrease, while business
owners may see theirs go up.
The other taxing jurisdictions (County, School District, etc.)
work basically the same way, with State law dictating the
rules for setting and collecting property tax.
For more detailed information or to provide feedback
on the City of Burnsville’s budget visit
www.burnsville.org/budget or attend one of the many
City Council budget meetings throughout the year.
Utility Rates/Charges
Services
2012
2013
(Indicates Average Household Cost/Month
based on 5,000 gallons)
(Indicates Average Household Cost/Month
based on 5,000 gallons)
Water
$2.33 per 1,000 gallons
($11.65)
$2.43 per 1,000 gallons
($12.15)
City Sewer
$1.08 per 1,000 gallons
($5.40)
$1.12 per 1,000 gallons
($5.60)
Met Sewer
$1.83 per 1,000 gallons
($9.15)
$1.92 per 1,000 gallons
($9.60)
Basic Charge
$6.00 ($2.00 for each service Water, City Sewer, Met Sewer)
($6.00)
NO CHANGE
($6.00)
Storm Water
$6.62 per property
($6.62)
$6.78 per property
($6.78)
Street Light
$2.78 per property
($2.78)
$2.86 per property
($2.86)
Major Roadway Lighting
$ 0.33 per property
($0.33)
$0.34 per property
($0.34)
Sidewalk Snowplow
$0.95 per property
($0.95)
NO CHANGE
($0.95)
State Surcharge
$0.53 per water connection
($0.53)
NO CHANGE
($0.53)
Penalty
1.25% of the amount due for late payment
(1.25%)
NO CHANGE
(1.25%)
Total Utility Bill
($43.41)
($44.81)
(Regional Waste Water
Treatment)
(Drainage and
Surface Water Quality)
8
Why have my property taxes
gone up when my home
value continues to go down?
The City of Burnsville does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, sexual preference, disability or any other basis protected by law in the admission or access to, treatment or employment in its programs,
activities, or services. To obtain this information in alternative forms such as Braille, large print, audio tape or qualified readers, please contact the City of Burnsville. Telephone: 952-895-4400.