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Chanhassen Scoop- Winter 2008
December 20, 2007 - 5:29pm — FAdams
What's happening with the city government in Chanhassen? City council, planning commission, crime prevention, business. It's all news.
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Craig Peterson will be...
Back to page topCraig Peterson will be leaving the city council for a seat on the Metropolitan Council.
How does this strike you? What do you think the council should do about a replacement?
The City of Chanhassen...
Back to page topThe City of Chanhassen operates under the "Optional Plan B" form of government as authorized by Minnesota state statutes.
Under this plan, the elected city council consists of a mayor and four council members. The mayor is elected every four years. Council members are elected to four-year terms, with two positions open every two years.
Craig Peterson still has one year remaining on his council term.
Should the council call for a special election, or should they appoint somebody. Or should they leave the seat empty?
Elections are held in even-numbered years and coincide with general elections conducted in November. All council positions are representatives at-large.
The City Council is the legislative and policy-making body for the city. They adopt and direct the enforcement of ordinances; manage the city’s financial operations by levying taxes, approving budgets, auditing expenditures, and borrows money; guides development in accordance with the Comprehensive Plan; appoints advisory committees; appoints commissions and advisory boards; appoints the City Manager; and all other city business as required by law. The city manager appoints all other staff.
The City Council meets on the second and fourth Mondays of the month at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall. All of their meetings are open to the public and are broadcast live on Cable Channel 8. Rebroadcasts of the meetings may be seen on Tuesdays at 9 a.m., Fridays at 7 p.m., and Saturdays at 1 p.m. on Channel 8.
Tonight's city council...
Back to page topTonight's city council agenda
The agenda is light for tonight's Jan. 14 city council meeting, but councilors will make a decision what to do about the open seat created by the departure of councilor Craig Peterson, who is now serving on the Metropolitan Council.
The bulk of their discussion regarding this matter is likely to take place at the city council work session, scheduled to begin at 5:30 p.m.
During the session, councilors are also scheduled to discuss the city's 2008 key financial strategies and what to do about campaign signs.
At the council meeting, scheduled to begin at 7 p.m., the mayor will be formally appointed, the fire chief confirmed, somebody from the council will be appointed to the SouthWest Transit Commission, and an official newspaper will be designated.
Councilors are also scheduled to approve a number of items, including bids and contracts for the city's two upcoming well improvement projects.
The council will also announce its plans for the open council seat.
An economic development authority meeting will immediately follow the city council meeting.
Contact city hall at (952) 227-1100 for more information.
City Councilors decided the...
Back to page topCity Councilors decided the best course of action would be for the city to run an advertisement in the newspaper for two weeks seeking applications from people who are interested in filling the open council seat. They hope to fill the seat by mid February.
In response to a question...
Back to page topIn response to a question about how his role with the City Council might change now that Craig Peterson is with the Metropolitan Council, Mayor Tom Furlong responded with the following answer.
"Craig was a valued member of our city council and remains a personal friend. I will miss his involvement at the local level, but know that he will serve our Metropolitan Council district very well."
"Given the nature of our city government, council member turnover has occurred regularly during recent history. I have witnessed council members learn and grow in their positions, and rise to the occasion when called upon to do so. I am confident that will continue. We benefit, too, from a knowledgeable, committed, and long-tenured city staff. I am certain that the Council will continue to work together with city staff as we have in the past. Together, we will continue to professionally conduct the business of the city and follow our strategic plan - providing for today and planning for tomorrow - for the benefit of all."
Former Councilor Peterson is...
Back to page topFormer Councilor Peterson is scheduled to be presented with a Maple Leaf award at the regularly scheduled council meeting on
Jan. 28.
Peterson served on the Chanhassen Planning Commission from 1995 to 1999, serving as chair from 1997 to 1999, the economic development authority from 2000 to 2007, the SouthWest Transit Commission from 2002 to 2007, serving as chair from 2004 to 2007, and on for two terms on the City Council from 2000 to 2007.
Regarded by his colleagues as a leader, during Peterson's term on the City Council he provided leadership on many projects.
No snowmobile driving in...
Back to page topNo snowmobile driving in Chan
There are no trails in Chanhassen where snowmobiling is allowed. It is unlawful to operate a snowmobile on:
Public sidewalks, walkways, or boulevards provided or used for pedestrian travel;
Private property of another without consent of the owner; Any public or private school grounds, including but not limited to park property, playgrounds, recreational areas, and golf courses. You cannot ride in any Chanhassen parks.
It is also unlawful to: Tow any person or thing on any public street or highway;
Drive at a speed greater than 10 mph within 100 feet of any lakeshore, fisherman/fish house, sliding area, or skating rink when in use; Operate a snowmobile in Chanhassen between the hours of 10 pm and 7 am.
So where can you ride your snowmobile in Chanhassen? You can ride on your own property, on other private property with the owner's permission, or you can trailer your snowmobile to a lake's public access and ride on the lake. There are also snowmobile trails in western Carver County.
In discussing the need for...
Back to page topIn discussing the need for the city to update its ordinance with regard to snowmobile usage in the city, Parks and Recreation Director Todd Hoffman said the following: "We take a good amount of complaints [about snowmobiles driving in the city]. The availability is no longer there." He said for two years a now defunct snowmobile club in Chanhassen has not groomed or maintained snowmobile trails.
Excellence in financial...
Back to page topExcellence in financial reporting: Chanhassen
The City of Chanhassen was notified on Nov. 15 by the Government Finance Officers Association in Chicago, Ill., that the comprehensive annual financial report for the fiscal year ending Dec. 31, 2006, qualified the city for a certificate of achievement for excellence in financial reporting.
This is the highest form of recognition in governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management, according to the association.
The certificate of achievement plaque will be shipped to Greg Sticha, finance director for the city.
The streets of...
Back to page topThe streets of Chanhassen
This morning when I was driving to work, I went over a slick spot and almost spun out.
My car started fishtailing down 78th street. Thankfully, the woman who was approaching noticed that my vehicle was out of control, and she slowed down. Thanks to her we didn't collide.
Do you have a winter driving story about the streets of Chanhassen? Post it in response.
I don't have any horror...
Back to page topI don't have any horror stories, but I noticed that 78th St. was very well sanded by yesterday afternoon (12/26).
Did anybody notice the...
Back to page topDid anybody notice the railroad crossing problems on 78th Street yesterday, Wednesday?
There was no train coming, but the bars were down for much of the afternoon.
This morning, Thursday, they're not down. Problem solved, I think.
This year's holiday tree...
Back to page topThis year's holiday tree lighting ceremony in Chanhassen was held on Saturday, Dec. 1 from 5 to 6 p.m.
Mayor Furlong and his family officially flipped the switch for the tree and City Center Park at 5:25 p.m.
Park officials estimate there were 110 people in attendance at the event.
This is up from last year's attendance, despite the snow and wind that likely kept more people from attending the event.
Tree lighting: Photo by...
Back to page topTrail and facility report,...
Back to page topTrail and facility report, from the Dec. 3 Park and Recreation Commission meeting. From Dale Gregory, park superintendent; to Todd Hoffman, park and recreation director.
"All park buildings have have been winterized and closed for the season. The piers, docks and buoys have been removed from the lakes."
Lake Ann
"Several weeks ofrain made it very difficult to trench and install the cement pedestals for light poles at the ball and soccer fields this summer. A few light pedestals did not pass inspection and had to be removed."
Park Shelter
"Work on the park shelters has been moving forward. The first half of the cement slab has been poured, but due to the cold weather the second half has not been completed."
Ball Fields
"We have repaired the area from the infield ag line to outfield grass on all ball fields to reduce the lip. We also repaired and put new sod in the center outfield on field 1."
Bluff Creek Recreation Center
"The new ball field at the recreation center is almost complete. The ag line chain link fence and concrete pads are completed. The bases have not been placed yet."
South Lotus Lake Boat Landing
"Installation of a new concrete boat landing at South Lotus Lake was completed this fall."
Financial Strategy meeting...
Back to page topFinancial Strategy meeting Saturday morning
On Jan. 5 in the fountain conference room at City Hall, city staffers will review the 2007 key financial strategies and ask for direction from the city council on whether the strategy has been completed, needs additional information, or should be moved to the "ongoing" list.
Following that discussion, staff will present the "2008 Draft Key Financial Strategies Strategic Plan."
After the completion of staff presentations, the city councill will be asked to provide additional strategies that will be added to the masterlist for prioritizing.
Among topics of discussion will be marketing of the city, construction of the high school, law enforcement in the city, water consumption, the city's infrastructure and how to enhance the local tax base.
Come prepared to share your ideas for 2008. The meeting is set to begin at 8:30 a.m. and adjourn at 11 a.m.
Call City Hall at 227-1100, and read next week's edition of the Villager for more information.
Crime watch The Carver...
Back to page topCrime watch
The Carver County deputies assigned to Chanhassen responded to many calls in the city from Dec. 24 to 30. Several of them are listed below.
Dec. 24
At 9:55 p.m., responded to the intersection of Highway 101/Lake Drive in Chanhassen for an 18-year-old male who was cited for underage consumption.
At 11:26 p.m., responded to the 700 block of Lake Susan Drive in Chanhassen for a report of five to six adults being loud and a male in red pants urinating.
Dec. 25
At 2:07 p.m., responded to a car in the ditch off Highway 101 and Kiowa Trail in Chanhassen. There were unknown injuries.
Dec. 26
At 9:02 a.m., responded to an accident off Galpin Boulevard and Coulter Boulevard in Chanhassen, citing a 22-year-old Shakopee female for driving too fast for the road conditions.
At 2:31 p.m., responded to a t-bone auto accident at Highway 7 and Minnewashta Parkway in Chanhassen, citing an 18-year-old male for failure to yield the right of way.
At 6:15 p.m., responded to Lake Drive East in Chanhassen based on a fraud complaint.
At 7:48 p.m., responded to the 9200 block of River Rock Drive North in Chanhassen to investigate suspicious activity. Someone allegedly knocked on a door and then tried to enter a residence there. The suspect was gone when officers arrived.
Dec. 27
At 1:08 a.m., issued 12 citations for winter parking on the 7000 block of Market Boulevard in Chanhassen.
At 8:35 a.m., responded to a complaint from a residence on the 7200 block of Fawn Hill Road in Chanhassen. The complaint was about a threatening e-mail that officers described as terroristic threats.
At 11:36 a.m., responded to the intersection of Kerber Boulevard/West Village Road in Chanhassen for an elderly person stuck in a snowbank with an electric wheelchair.
At 2:44 p.m., responded to the intersection of Lake Lucy Road/Lucy Ridge Lane in Chanhassen for a snowmobile ordinance warning.
At 10:01 p.m., responded to the intersection of Carver Beach Road/Ponderosa Drive in Chanhassen for a snowmobile complaint.
Dec. 28
At 12:35 a.m., responded to the intersection of Highway 5/Great Plains Boulevard in Chanhassen for a 39-year-old man refusing to pay for taxi services. The man was arrested for theft of services.
At 10 a.m., responded to the 2300 block of Highway 7 in Chanhassen for a stolen check/check forgery report.
At 10:14 a.m., responded to the 6500 block of Devonshire Drive in Chanhassen for vandalism to windows. Damage was estimated at $1,300.
At 12:10 p.m., responded to the 2200 block of Baneberry Way W. in Chanhassen for ongoing dog at large problems.
At 5:40 p.m., responded to the intersection of Powers Boulevard/Highway 5 in Chanhassen for vehicle accident. An 85-year-old Minnetonka man was cited for failure to yield.
Dec. 29
At 2:11 a.m., responded to the intersection of Lake Lucy Road/Mulberry Circle in Chanhassen for a suspicious person. A 16-year-old male was cited for possession of a small amount of marijuana.
Chanhassen company...
Back to page topChanhassen company honored
Rapid Refill Corp., located in Chanhassen, has earned the number 11 spot on Entrepreneur magazine's New Franchise Concepts list, according to a media report.
Rapid Refill Corp is a retail franchise in the ink and toner industry. Rapid Refill already has signed franchise agreements in place for the opening of approximately 150 locations in the next several years, according to the report.
For more information, visit www.rapidrefill.com.
Crime Watch Dec. 28 At...
Back to page topCrime Watch
Dec. 28
At 7:51 a.m. a person in Chanhassen obtained a permit to purchase a firearm application. At 8:15 a.m. and 8:21 a.m., two people obtained a permit to carry a firearm application. At 8:33 a.m. someone in Chanhassen obtained a permit to purchase application. Then at 11:46 a.m. somebody obtained a permit to carry application. At 12:30 p.m. somebody obtained a permit to purchase a firearm application.
At 1:57 p.m. deputies in Chanhassen responded to a reported hit-and-run accident at the intersection of Highway 101 and 78th Street.
Dec. 31
At 10:23 a.m. deputies in Chanhassen responded to a report of theft of a wallet at the 6700 block of Lotus Trail. There a 24-year-old Minnetonka male was arrested for theft, providing false information to a peace officer, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of stolen property.
At 6:43 p.m. deputies in Victoria responded to a report of the theft of a bike worth approximately $400 from a location on the 1300 block of Narcissus Curve.
At 10:45 p.m. deputies in Chanhassen cited a 17-year-old Orono male for minor in consumption. The citation was made on the 7300 block of Kurvers Point Road.
Jan. 1
At 1:04 p.m. several miscellaneous items valued at approximately $492 were reported stolen from a Chanhassen residence on the 1700 block of Stoughton Avenue.
At 8:26 p.m. deputies at the intersection of Lake Lucy Road and Mulberry Circle in Chanhassen arrested a 38-year-old Excelsior male for driving under the influence and fleeing in a motor vehicle.
Jan. 2
At 12:12 p.m. deputies in Victoria responded to a vehicle theft report on the 1900 block of 80th street. The vehicle was later located.
At 12:21 p.m. deputies in Chaska arrested a 27-year-old Carver male on outstanding warrants and cited him for driving on a suspended license. They also arrested a 21-year-old female passenger on an outstanding warrant. They were at County Road 40 and Highway 212.
City councilors, staff meet...
Back to page topCity councilors, staff meet with Congressman
U.S. Congressman John Kline was in Chanhassen Thursday morning to meet with Chanhassen's mayor, city manager, assistant city manager, city engineer, and several city councilors.
Kline initiated the meeting.
"We felt the need to talk with city leadership and sort of catch up with what's going on," said Kline afterward. "This last session, I spent Monday through Friday mostly out in Washington and have not had the chance to get around the district that I had in the previous four years."
Read about the wide range of issues they discussed, including road construction, mass transit, environmental permitting, earmarks, meth, and policing services, in next week's edition of the Villager.
Althought Kline didn't have...
Back to page topAlthought Kline didn't have much information about meth, he said efforts in the U.S. to limit meth labs have caused more meth to come north across the border with illegal aliens from Mexico.
Kline’s impression of the...
Back to page topKline’s impression of the city council
After meeting with Chanhassen city leaders for approximately 90-minutes, during which time city staff told Kline some of their success stories from 2007, Kline said he’s impressed.
“It’s good leadership, good management, good administration, and it ought to be a model. There are a lot of communities that should be learning these best practices,” he said.
Among the accomplishments that city staff highlighted are completion of the city’s water treatment plant on time and within budget and a 2008 budget that doesn’t require an increase in property taxes for most home owners.
“Their success in providing services and lowering tax rates and keeping the budget under control is remarkable,” Kline said, citing the city staff’s ability to not rely on “outside money to come in and bail them out.”
“It’s really impressive. Well done. You guys should be proud,” he said.
The buzz word so far in this...
Back to page topThe buzz word so far in this election cycle is change.
I wonder if people are taking that to be more government intervention and higher taxes or fundamental change in how business is conducted in Washington D.C.
For years John McCain has been fighting against the Washington establishment. He's got a record of fighting against pork-barrel spending, earmarks.
I bet he's in support of what Second District Representative John Kline is trying to do in the U.S. House of Representatives. Kline called the earmark system “a badly, badly broken system.”
At the beginning of his third term last January, he officially pulled himself away from the earmarks feeding trough, and he didn't request even one for the second district.
“I’ve decided to go at this thing and fight it tooth and nail and get the thing fixed,” he said, adding: “I couldn’t do it if I was in the system.”
He called it a good ole’ boys, good ole’ girls network and acknowledged that he, too, used to be part of the network.
“Most of you know that for the first four years I was in Congress, I’d go in with a list of projects, mostly road projects in Carver, Scott, Dakota and Goodhue counties,” he told Chanhassen city councilors.
“Over the last four years I’ve learned the whole system is broken and corrupt. It’s not a merit-based system. Take Jim Oberstar in northern Minnesota, for example. He gets more money for bike trails than the other seven of us get for roads and bridges. Seven of the eight districts are getting killed. He’s the chairman of the committee and has been there a long time. It’s not Oberstar’s fault. It’s the system he knows. It’s a system that needs to be fixed.”
So far only 12 U.S. representatives are standing behind Kline’s efforts, but he predicts that we’ll see more converts to his cause.
“A lot of people are frustrated. Hopefully, there’s bi-partisan frustration,” he said.
What do you think? Is Kline right to not request federal money for the second district? Or is it important to get all the federal funds we can get to help the area develop?
February's coming Tickets...
Back to page topFebruary's coming
Tickets for the 15th-annual Chanhassen Feb. Fest celebration will go on sale this weekend at various location throughout the city.
Tickets may be purchased at City Hall, Byerly's, the Recreation Center, Ivan's Sinclair and the Chanhassen Chamber of Commerce. In Victoria, they'll be available at Cabin Fever Sporting Goods.
Crime watch Jan....
Back to page topCrime watch Jan. 3-7
Jan. 3
At 2:03 p.m., deputies were dispatched to the 900 block of 78th street west in Chanhassen on account of a hit and run that left approximately $2,000 worth of damaged property.
At 4:53 p.m., cited a 33-year-old male for failure to provide proof of insurance after a two-car accident off Highway 5 and Dell Road in Chanhassen.
At 11:56 p.m., cited a 19-year-old Minneapolis female, 19-year-old Excelsior male and 19-year-old Chanhassen female for underage consumption at the intersection of 78th street west and Kerber Boulevard.
Jan. 5
At 2:38 p.m. responded to a property damage report on the 1000 block of Pleasant View Road. A mailbox had been shot with a pellet gun.
A 7:43 p.m. on the 800 block of 78 street west a 51-year-old Chanhassen male was cited for failure to signal his turn.
At 8:25 p.m. responded to a report of fighting in the parking lot at a location on the 8100 block of Kochia Lane in Victoria.
At 9:44 p.m. cited a 16-year-old Chanhassen male from Fox Hollow Drive for running away.
Jan. 6
At 9:22 p.m., two adult males were cited for disorderly conduct after they were reportedly fighting on the 500 block of Pond Promenade in Chanhassen.
Jan. 7
At 11:32 a.m., responded to a report of possible drugs in a residence on the 7000 block of Cheyenne Trail in Chanhassen.
At 12:46 p.m., responded to a vandalism complaint on the 1800 block of Lake Drive East in Chanhassen. A gas line had been cut to a truck, resulting in approximately $250 worth of damage.
At 3:50 p.m., responded to a damage report on the 600 block of Santa Vera Drive in Chanhassen. Damage had been done to a storm window.
State Chamber rep meets...
Back to page topState Chamber rep meets with local Chamber members
Thursday morning Chanhassen Chamber of Commerce members had an open discussion about legislative strategies for 2008 with the director of healthcare and transportation policy for the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce.
In talking about transportation, the philosophical question came up: Should we support a 7.5-cent increase in the state's gasoline tax to fund roads, which the state chamber supports doing? Or should we demand that the state reprioritize how the money we already give it is spent, so more is used to pay for road construction? Where's all the money going?
WEST METRO HOME...
Back to page topWEST METRO HOME IMPROVEMENT
& LANDSCAPING EXPO
The largest show of its kind in the western suburbs dedicated exclusively to home improvement exhibitors will be at Chapel Hill Academy Saturday, March 15, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. andSunday, March 16, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Location: Chapel Hill Academy, 306 West 78th Street, Chanhassen
USA Karate black belts in...
Back to page topUSA Karate black belts in Chanhassen
Front row: Logan Fossum, Alec Maher, Brandon Semke, Dillon Maher, Julie Anderson
Not pictured: Jonathon Norheim, Justin Ries, Smail Hodzic
This picture is of the Chanhassen USA Karate studio 1st and 2nd degree black belt graduating class on Jan. 12, 2008.
Crime watch Jan....
Back to page topCrime watch Jan. 10-13
Jan. 10
At 10:09 p.m., deputies responded to the 900 block of Lake Lucy Road in Chanhassen based on reports of property damage caused by a pellet gun. The complainant reported hearing a window break. No cars or people were seen in the area, but damage to window was estimated to be about $500.
Jan. 11
At 9:21 a.m., responded to a house on the 7600 block of Ridgeview Way in Chanhassen based on reported property damage caused by BBs.
At 4:05 p.m., responded to a home on the 1600 block of Lake Lucy Road in Chanhassen to inspect property damage to a yard from a snowmobile.
At 6:42 p.m. in Victoria at Highway 7 and Rolling Acres Road arrested a 28-year-old Rosemount female for driving under the influence and driving too fast for conditions.
Jan. 12
At 1:03 a.m. in Chanhassen on the 7700 block of Market Boulevard issued six winter parking citiations.
At 4:11 a.m. on the 600 block of Bighorn Drive arrested a 20-year-old male for driving under the influence after his vehicle hit his neighbor’s mailbox and got stuck in the snow bank.
At 12:40 p.m. on the 6800 block of Yuma Drive arrested a 37-year-old Chanhassen female on a Carver City warrant.
At 1:20 p.m. on the 6600 block of Pointe Lake Lucy investigated damage to windows with a pellet gun.
At 4:08 p.m. in Chanhassen on the 2700 block of Sandpiper Trail responded to reports that someone had been in the house without permission.
Jan. 13
At 12:07 a.m. in Chanhassen responded to a reported verbal domestic on the 700 block of Chanhassen Road.
At 12:10 a.m. in Chanhassen responded to two cars off the road on Highway 101 and Pioneer Trail, citing a 27-year-old St. Louis Park male for not having a Minnesota driver’s license.
The Chanhassen Area Chamber...
Back to page topThe Chanhassen Area Chamber Legislative Conference Call Series will run most Fridays during the Legislative Session from 7:30 to 8 a.m. at the Chanhassen Area Chamber’s conference room. The first fifteen minutes is "listen only" followed by fifteen minutes of Q&A. The Conference Call Series is hosted by the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce and is available as a member.
Social host ordinance in...
Back to page topSocial host ordinance in Chanhassen?
Would you like to see the Chanhassen City Council follow the lead of its counterparts in Chaska by adopting a social host ordinance at the local level? Why? Why not?
The purpose of the social host ordinance would be to deter underage drinking in carver County. It would hold social hosts criminally responsible for hosting or allowing an event on private or public prroperty where persons under age 21 possess or consume alcohol, regardless of who supplied the alcohol to the minors.
South Lake Minnetonka...
Back to page topSouth Lake Minnetonka Police Department
A 23-year-old Minnetonka man is being held in Hennepin County on $150,000 bail after he allegedly committing felony burglary for breaking into an apartment.
Officers allege that Daniel Win Hendrickson entered the Excelsior apartment building where his former girlfriend lives with the intent to commit a crime and then committed that crime.
On Dec. 19, he allegedly broke down the apartment door and assaulted a male in the apartment.
He faces 0 to 20 years in prison and/or a $35,000 fine.
A 27-year-old Shorewood man is in custody and must appear in Hennepin County District Court to face the charge of criminal sexual conduct in the fifth degree after he allegedly groped a woman outside an Exelsior establishment on Dec, 21, 2007. Bail for Brandon Peter Petron has been set at $10,000.
In other news, officers are looking for Kari Suzanne Helgren, 43, after she wrote a check in the amount of $1,706.40 for two old, rare coins that she wished to purchase from an Excelsior business.
The check was returned to the business as counterfeat, and officers allege that Helgren had reason to know the check was stolen or counterfeit.
She now faces the offenses of theft by swindle over $500, a felony, check forgery, a felony, and posession or sale of stolen or counterfeit checks, also a felony. Each charge has a penalty of 0 to 5 years in prison and/or a $10,000 fine. Helgren's whereabouts are unknown.
Family entertainment at...
Back to page topFamily entertainment at Chanhassen Dinner Theatres
KidSync will present karaoke for the young and young at heart on Sunday, Jan. 20, at Chanhassen Dinner Theatres. Admission is free. Coffee, soda, cookies and pretzels are free. This is in the Club from 1 to 3 p.m.
Watch Rena Mesedahl introduce her Karaoke Gypsy. For more information, go to www.kidsync.com.
On Thursday, the local...
Back to page topOn Thursday, the local National Weather Service website had the following message:
"Ice has damaged a cooling compressor fan at the Central Region data center, resulting in several major systems overheating. Temporary backup pages have been implemented for much of the Midwest, Great Lakes, and Upper Mississippi Valley. We apologize for the inconvenience and are working to restore full services quickly as possible."
Did you see this message, too?
The church brief “Buy...
Back to page topThe church brief “Buy tickets for missions” in the Jan. 17 newspaper was incorrect. Tickets to an all-church production of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” at Family of Christ Lutheran Church are now on sale in support of a senior high/young adult mission trip to El Salvador. This production is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Feb. 22 and 23 at the church (220 Coulter Blvd.). Call (952) 934-5659 for more information.
Halla, IWCO Direct win The...
Back to page topHalla, IWCO Direct win
The Chanhassen Area Chamber of Commerce awarded 'Business Person of the Year' to Mark Halla, owner of the Mustard Seed, and 'Business of the Year' to IWCO Direct Tuesday, Jan. 22.
The luncheon meeting at Oak Ridge Convention Center in Chaska was also highlighted by a speech in which Gov. Tim Pawlenty said he doesn't think the legislature should raise taxes, but Democrats may be able to override his veto.
Read about it in this week's edition of The Villager.
Is now a good time to raise...
Back to page topIs now a good time to raise taxes?
Let's get this on the table. The state's economy is slowing. Some people say we're in a recession. Others don't.
Small and medium-sized businesses employ 70 percent of the workforce. So-called "rich people" have money and own capital.
They invest in order to produce goods and services in a cost-effective manner and in doing so make a profit.
On the other hand, the government does not have a profit motive. They have no incentive to produce goods and services in a cost-effective manner. The government does not produce. Instead it provides goods and services by taxing society's producers.
Wouldn't it make sense for the government to consume less, so the producers could produce more? It seems like lowering taxes on sectors of the economy that are producing is a better idea than hitting them with higher taxes.
What's your analysis of the high or low-tax debate?
Peterson to be...
Back to page topPeterson to be honored
Former city councilor Craig Peterson will be presented with a Maple Leaf award at tonight's city council meeting.
But first, councilors are scheduled to discuss the city's comprehensive plan during their work session in the fountain conference room beginning at 5:30 p.m. Also scheduled for discussion are key financial strategies and a review of stormwater projects for 2008.
In the regular meeting in the city council chambers at 7 p.m., they're scheduled to approve streets and utilities for the Liberty on Bluff Creek project, a no parking resolution for the Lyman Boulevard improvement project, and more.
Sgt. Peter Anderley and Chief Gregg Geske are scheduled to give updates from the Carver County Sheriff's Department and Chanhassen Fire Department respectively. Then councilors will hold a public hearing for the 2008 Laredo Drive street improvement project.
Governor Tim Pawlenty was in...
Back to page topGovernor Tim Pawlenty was in Chaska speaking to the Chanhassen Chamber of Commerce last Tuesday, instead of attending the March for Life in Washington, D.C., as he has every year since he was first elected.
This has caused some to speculate that he missed the event because he's on most Republican candidates' short list to join a ticket as the vice presidential nominee. The speculation goes that Republicans with national ambitions do not mix with pro-life activists immediately before seeking the national nomination because the Republican establishment likes their votes more than their company or their cause.
What do you think? Is there anything to that idea? Do you think we will see a McCain-Pawlenty ticket? What about a Romney-Pawlenty ticket?
Chanhassen Scoop-Medallion...
Back to page topChanhassen Scoop-Medallion hunters ahead of weather
By Forrest Adams
The question was "Are you crazy?"
I asked it to Dan Hansen, who found the hidden and coveted Friends of the Library 2008 February Festival medallion in a remote city park in Chanhassen yesterday. Not that he was crazy for searching there. It's called Herman Field Park and seems like a fine place hidden in a heavily wooded area in the far north portion of the city.
It was just that he and his father, Charlie, searched Tuesday morning in sub-zero temperatures! To find a trinket and win some prizes. My cat didn't even want to go outside yesterday. To each his own. The Hansen team won last year, too.
Jim Bishop, American journalist and writer, once said "Winter is fury- and white silence. It can freeze a blade of grass with a glance." When we were talking, that furious part of winter picked up. It chilled us to our core.
Dan assured me quite the contrary, he and his father were not crazy. In fact, they were sane he said because they were hunting for, and finding, the medallion before the temperatures really plunged. "Better to do this before it's 20 degrees below," he said.
Enough said, we left it at that. A sudden chill in the air cut the interview short, and we retreated to our respective vehicles.
As I sat in my car in the garage this morning and listened to the slow turnover of the engine, I thought: 'Now this is cold. It's a good thing nobody is out searching for the medallion.'
Congratulations to the Hansens, and may their sub-zero temperatures for the medallion hunt always be single digits, not double.
Harley dealership to open in...
Back to page topHarley dealership to open in EP
Wild Prairie Harley-Davidson is scheduled to open Saturday at 9 a.m. in Eden Prairie at 12480 Plaza Drive, near Interstate 494 and Hwy. 5.
Tom Giannetti, the dealership's president, chose to open in EP after neighbors opposed his plans for a dealership in Chanhassen.
Tuesday, Feb. 5, city crews...
Back to page topTuesday, Feb. 5, city crews will be at the Lake Susan boat landing installing safety signs and fencing prior to installing a lake aeration system called a pump and baffle aerator.
This system creates an oxygenated refuge that fish seek out in order to survive.
I was at the Republican...
Back to page topI was at the Republican precinct caucus in Chanhassen Tuesday night.
The number of people there surprised me. "This is Carver County," said City Councilor Bethany Tjornhom, who declined to voice her support for a candidate. "
Were you at one of the gatherings- Democrat, which was in Bluff Creek Elementary, or Republican? Who did you support? Why?
After 45 minutes of debate,...
Back to page topAfter 45 minutes of debate, city elected officials agreed to appoint Jerry McDonald, current chairman of the city’s planning commission, to serve on the city council for the remainder of Craig Peterson’s term.
The term ends in December.
A secret vote at the beginning of the work session Monday night narrowed down the discussion to McDonald and Ladd Conrad, the 2007 Chanhassen Rotary Citizen of the Year.
"Ladd came in [to the interview last Thursday], and he was amazing. I knew he would be," said Councilor Bethany Tjornhom.
Councilor Vicki Ernst also supported Conrad, saying he was a very effective communicator with a vision, passion and enthusiasm.
In the end, though, it was McDonald's more recent four years of experience on the planning commission that pushed him forward. Elected officials were unanimous in their choice.
This leaves a vacancy on the Chanhassen Planning Commission. During the city council meeting, officials encouraged council applicants who were not appointed to apply for one of several other vacant commission seats, too.
During the work session, Mayor Tom Furlong said things look good for the caliber of future commissioner applicants.
"We started with a very good group of individuals that raised their hand and said 'I am willing to serve.' I think out of the people that submitted applications, we’ve got a lot of future commission applicants."
McDonald is scheduled to be sworn in to the council seat at the next council meeting on the fourth Monday in February.
Councilor Vicki Ernst also supported Conrad, saying he was a very effective communicator.
In the end, though, it was McDonald's more recent experience on the planning commission that pushed him forward.
Mn/DOT, Carver County, and...
Back to page topMn/DOT, Carver County, and the Cities of Chanhassen and Victoria will be jointly
hosting a Public Meeting to solicit citizen input on the Trunk Highway 5 Corridor
Study. This study will look at future improvements along Trunk Highway 5 from
Trunk Highway 41 to Trunk Highway 212. The study is the first step in planning
for future improvements along the corridor.
The meeting information is as follows:
Trunk Highway 5 Corridor Study on Tuesday, Feb. 26
Location: City of Victoria City Hall, Council Chambers
Address: 7951 Rose Street, Victoria
Time: 5 to 7 p.m.
Chan Jam upcoming This event...
Back to page topChan Jam upcoming
This event will showcase bands from the local high schools in a concert at the Chanhassen Recreation Center on Friday, April 11, from 7 to 10 p.m.
Bands interested in playing should contact John Stutzman at 952-227-1122. All bands must be students from Chaska High School, Minnetonka High School, Holy Family Cathlic School, and Southwest Christian High School.
Chanhassen Crime Watch Feb....
Back to page topChanhassen Crime Watch Feb. 7-11
Feb.7
At 12:38 p.m., officers responded to the 6900 block of Hazeltine Boulevard, where a 16-year-old Chanhassen male was cited for underage tobacco possession and use.
At 3:46 p.m., ID theft was reported from the 6200 block of Murray Hill Road. The infraction was committed through the writing of a bad check.
Feb. 8
At 10:12 p.m. officers responded to a reported stolen wallet from Chanhassen Recreation Center. The estimated loss was $156.
At 11:04 p.m., officers responded to a report that two vehicles had stopped on the 7600 block of Kiowa in Chanhassen, and people were lighting something in the car. Officers determind the suspects were smoking cigars and waiting for friends.
At 11:10 p.m., a report from Victoria had two coyotes near Highway 7.
Feb. 9
At 1:22 a.m. a 52-year-old Excelsior female was arrested and charged with driving under the influence near the intersection of Highway 7 and Greenbriar in Chanhassen.
Feb. 10
At 2:24 a.m. a 28-year-old Bloomington female was arrested at the intersection of 78th Street West and Audubon Road for driving while intoxicated.
At 4:53 a.m. a 27-year-old Chaska male was arrested at the intersection of Highway 212 and Highway 101 and charged with driving while intoxicated.
Feb. 11
At 7:23 a.m. a 17-year-old Eden Prairie female was cited at the intersection of Highway 5 and Bavaria Road in Victoria for having no proof of insurance. Officers responded to a report of car versus light pole.
The Chanhassen Parks and...
Back to page topThe Chanhassen Parks and Recreation Department is seeking a professional quality logo designed for the upcoming 25th Anniversary of our annual July 3rd and 4th Celebration. The winning logo will be used on promotional materials and commemorative souvenir items that will be sold leading up to and during this year’s celebration. Logos are due by Wednesday, March 5 , by noon.
Crime Watch Feb. 15-18 Feb....
Back to page topCrime Watch Feb. 15-18
Feb. 15
A 38-year-old Plymouth woman was arrested at 8:02 a.m. on Mission Hills Way West in Chanhassen for driving without a valid license.
At 4:53 p.m. an 28-year-old Lester Prairie employee from a Chanhassen business located on the 2900 block of 82nd Street was reported for stealing miscellaneous food items. The estimated loss was more than $200. The suspect male was cited for theft.
At 6:48 p.m. a 40-year-old Shakopee man was arrested on an outstanding Carver County warrant and cited for driving after revocation. He was pulled over at the intersection of Highway 101 and 86 Street in Chanhassen.
At 8 p.m. a Chanhassen man was arrested on a Hennepin County warrant and domestic assault at a Lake Susan Drive residence in Chanhassen. Also arrested was a Chanhassen female for domestic assault.
At 9:55 p.m., deputies responded to a call on the 8200 block of Market Boulevard in Chanhassen that the complainant's boyfriend was passed out drunk on the couch. He was reported as an unwanted male. Ridgview Ambulance transported him to Ridgeview Hospital in Waconia.
Feb. 16
At 8:20 p.m. a 43-year-old Deephaven woman was arrested for driving under the influence and refusing to take a field sobriety test. She was pulled over at the intersection of Highway 7 and County Road 13 in Victoria.
Feb. 17
At 8:20 p.m. a 16-year-old Minnetonka boy was cited for underage possession of alcohol. He was pulled over on the 6300 block of Stag Horn Lane in Chanhassen.
Feb. 18
At 7:19 a.m. a 21-year-old Bloomington man was arrested for burglary of more than $600 in computer equipment and cash from a Chan View residence in Chanhassen.
The day ended at 11:59 p.m. when a 25-year-old Chaska female was arrested in Victoria at 78th Street and Kochia Lane for driving under the influence, driving after suspension and no proof of insurance .
In a work session Monday...
Back to page topIn a work session Monday night, City Councilors held back from fully supporting an idea proposed by city staff to update the city’s code to include a year-round 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. lawn sprinkling ban. What's your opinion?