Bayport NewsMnDOT Highway 95 ProjectRecently, the city has met with MnDOT to dis-cuss their improve-ments planned for Highway 95 in 2020. Project goals include the addi-tion of on-street bike lanes, traffic calming center median, accessible sidewalks/ramps, protected pedestrian crossing near Ander-sen Elementary, and upgrades to lighting/utilities. Highway 95 has been identified by the Metropolitan Council as a Region-al Bicycle Transportation Network and the stretch through Bayport is currently a gap in this system. Planned upgrades will create a multimodal transportation corridor to better accommodate all users and it will signifi-cantly increase accessibility and safety for bicyclists and pedestrians. To learn about the impacts and benefits of this project, and provide comments on improvements, we encourage you to attend the public open house on June 19 (see page 4 for details).

Comprehensive Plan Update The city is required to update its Compre-hensive Plan every 10 years, to coincide with Metropolitan Council’s regional plans for the Twin Cities Area. This plan serves as a guide

for the city when making land use changes, implementing ordinances, developing capital improvement plans, and influencing future growth. The plan addresses parks/trails, housing, infrastructure, and transportation. An open house to receive public comment on the plan will be held June 19 (see page 4). A final draft of the comprehensive plan is anticipated to be considered by the City Council this fall.

June 2018, Issue 40

A Message from the Mayor by Susan St. Ores

In This Issue• Summer Programs ..................... 2• Recycling Resources ................. 3• Water Conservation ................... 4

Well, it seems spring is finally here! While most of us are dis-appointed about its delayed arrival, a later spring does have some positive attri-

butes, including improved water quality for our lakes, streams, and rivers. Ice out and warmer, sunny conditions early in the year means increased weed growth, algae, and higher phosphorus levels in our water bodies. Come late summer, this often leads to undesirable conditions, such as a green sludgy haze on the water’s surface, which can negatively impact aquatic habitat and enjoyment of water recreation.The natural environment is not the only element that has an impact on water qual-ity, so does human behavior. How we maintain our property, especially manag-ing runoff, practicing proper disposal of grass clippings and leaves, and applying appropriate type and quantity of fertilizer, can really make a difference. As a com-munity on the St. Croix, near several tribu-taries that flow directly to the river, it is extremely important to practice responsible habits that minimize impacts to our water resources.

In an effort to reduce runoff and debris from entering Perro Creek, the city will be part-nering with the Middle St. Croix Watershed Management Organization and Girl Scout Troop 56631 on a water quality project in Perro Park. The project will entail replacing the existing sod along the creek banks over the next 3 years with native plant seed and plugs, which will help filter sediment, phos-phorus, and other pollutants from entering the creek. We are excited that this project will demon-strate how native plantings can be an effec-tive tool for improving water quality, and be used as an attractive, low maintenance land-scape feature. We also hope this project will help remind property owners to practice responsible yard maintenance, and perhaps even inspire them to pursue a water quality improvement project on their own property.Thanks in advance for your efforts to main-tain a healthy and environmentally respon-sible community. Happy spring everyone!

Boat Trailer Parking Permits Available Annual boat trailer parking permits are now available at City Hall. The permit allows parking in designated areas at Andersen Corporation May 1-September 30 and Lakeside Park. Permits are $35.00 each plus tax and a valid driver’s license must be presented at the time of pur-chase. The 4th Ave. N. boat launch boarding dock is anticipated to be installed by early June, depending on river conditions, and it may be used for temporary loading and unloading of watercraft and passengers, for up to 20 minutes. Happy boating!

Donations Make the Fire Department Dance and Fundraiser a Huge Success!

Thanks to residents and local busi-nesses, over $20,000 was raised at this year’s annual fundraiser and will be used to help support the department with equipment purchases planned for 2018. Your support really makes a differ-ence. Thanks so much for your generosity!

Building? Know When a Permit is Required Whether you plan to do the work yourself or hire a con-tractor, a city permit must be obtained prior to starting most building projects, to ensure that any remodeling or new con-struction projects meet required safety, zoning, and building codes. It is best to contact the city’s building service contrac-tor MNSPECT at 952-442-7520 during the planning stages of a project to determine what is required. In general, permits are required for any new construction, general interior or exterior remodeling, and the items listed below. Please know fines may be issued for projects that are started without a permit. More information and permit forms can be found on the city’s website.

Bayport News • Page 2

Washington County Open to Business Program Washington County is offering a new program for individu-als operating or starting a small business. Open to Business pro-vides free counseling with an advisor on business plan devel-opment, financial management,

real estate analysis, marketing, and strategic planning. The pro-gram also offers loans for acquisition and operations. Contact Tyler Hilsabeck at 612-789-8838 or thilsabeck@mccdmn.org.

Valley Outreach Free Produce Distribution Valley Outreach is a service organi-zation that assists families in need of food, clothing, or emergency financial assistance. As part of their programming this summer, they will again be distributing free, fresh produce at Perro Park, from 4:30 - 7 p.m. on June 13, July 11, August 8, September 12, October 10, and November 14. Many thanks to Valley Outreach for their ongoing support and commitment to assist our local community!

Library Summer Reading Program and Events The library summer reading program theme is Reading Takes You Every-where! Be sure to pick up a Literacy Activity Card and Read Write Draw book review form from the library for a chance to win books, State Fair passes, or Twins tickets just for reading! Also, be sure to mark your calendar for these

other upcoming library events this summer:

June 12 - 2 p.m. Singer Duke Otherwise June 14 - 1 p.m. Mixed Nuts Comedy Clown DuoJune 28 - 1 p.m. Siama’s Congo Music July 12 - 1 p.m. Snake Discovery July 19 - 1 p.m. WonderWeavers Storytellers

Farmer’s Market at Village Green ParkVisit the Farmer’s Market on Mon-days this summer, 2:30-6:30 p.m. to shop for fresh goods, direct from local vendors! Many thanks to the merchants and farmers for their par-ticipation and the Bayport Commu-nity Action League for organizing and sponsoring the market!

Community Programs and Events

- Air conditioners - Basement finishing - Decks - Driveways - Fences - Fireplaeces - Furnaces - Garages - Gas ranges- Grading - Patios - Porches - Retaining walls - Roofing - Sheds - Siding - Street excavation - Swimming pools- Vegetative cutting - Water heaters/softeners - Windows

Bayport News • Page 3

city of bayport294 North Third StreetBayport, MN 55003

St. Croix River Association and REI Co-Op Donate New Bike Rack for Lakeside Park! Thanks to a generous donation by the St. Croix River Association (SCRA), Lakeside Park has a new bike rack! The donation was made possible through a grant from REI Co-op as part of the 50th anniver-sary celebration of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. As part of this celebration, SCRA will also be hosting a series of events to cre-ate opportunities for individuals to experience, care for, connect with, and celebrate the riverway. Scheduled events include music, exhibits, films, speak-ers, and workshops. For more information, visit www.stcroixriverassociation.org.

Spring Cleaning? Recycling & Disposal Resources Thanks to improved efforts by Washington County and local refuse haulers, it is easier than you might think to dispose of unwanted household items, furniture, electronics, yard waste, and hazardous materials! Check out the quick reference guide below for general information. Also be sure to visit the city’s website to access the county’s “Going Green” resource guide, which includes a complete list of recycling and disposal facilities and contact information.

FURNITURE / BULKY ITEMSHousehold appliances, mattresses, furniture, car-pet, etc., can be picked up curbside by Republic Services (952-941-5174) for a fee, with a 24-hour advance notice. For larger quantities, consider a dumpster for more convenient and cost effective disposal (a city dumpster permit is required). Charitable organizations may also be willing to accept gently used household items at no charge.

HAZARDOUS MATERIALSHousehold cleaners, paints, fertilizers, pesticides, antifreeze, motor oil, propane, fluorescent bulbs, electronics, computers, phones, and microwaves are all accepted at the Washington County Envi-ronmental Center, 4039 Cottage Grove Dr. in Woodbury (651-275-7475) free of charge.

YARD WASTELeaves, grass, and similar plant material can be picked up curbside by Republic Services for $2.50/compostable bag or $79.00/year with a yard waste cart. Composting Concepts, 4600 Cottage Grove Dr. in Woodbury (651-769-0531), near the Environmental Center, accepts all yard waste, trees, brush, shrubs, branches, stumps, etc., for a minimal fee.

CITY HALL AND POLICE

Hours: Mon.-Thurs.,7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.Phone: 651-275-4404Fax: 651-275-4411Email: khuftel@ci.bayport.mn.usWebsite: www.ci.bayport.mn.us

FIRE DEPARTMENT

Hours: By appointmentPhone: 651-275-4401Email: aeisinger@ci.bayport.mn.usWebsite: www.bayportfire.org

LIBRARY

Hours: Mon., 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Tues., 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Wed./Thurs., 12:00 – 8:00 p.m. Fri., 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Sat., 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.Phone: 651-275-4416Email: jsmith@ci.bayport.mn.usWebsite: www.bayportlibrary.org

PUBLIC WORKS

Hours: Mon.-Fri.,7:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.Email: mkline@ci.bayport.mn.usPhone: 651-275-4410

UTILITY, FIRE, POLICE EMERGENCY

Phone: 911

CITY COUNCIL MEETING DATES

June 4 October 1 July 9 November 7 August 6 December 3 September 10Meetings held at City Hall, 6:00 p.m.

LIBRARY BOARD MEETING DATES

June 19 October 16July 17 November 27August 21 December 18September 18 Meetings held at the Library, 6:00 p.m.

UPCOMING EVENT DATES

City Projects Open House June 19Farmer’s Market June-OctoberYouth Safety Camp August 6-7Night to Unite August 7Derby Days September 15Lighting of the Green December 5

Bayport News • Page 4

cIty of bayport294 North 3rd StreetBayport, Minnesota 55003-1027651-275-4404 | 651-275-4411 faxwww.ci.bayport.mn.us

PRSRT STDU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDTWIN CITIES MNPERMIT #3197

Register Now for Youth Safety Camp on August 6-7The city is now accepting registrations for this year’s Youth Safety Camp, hosted by the Police Department. The camp is a two-day program that teaches safety tips for children entering grades 3-5 for the upcom-ing school year. Topics include water and bike safety, K-9 police dog demonstration, Raptor Center exhibit, internet safety/cyber bullying, and first aid. Visit the city’s website for registration forms. The registration fee is $50.00 per child and the deadline is July 20, 2018.

June 19: Comprehensive Plan Update and MNDOT Hwy 95 Project Public Open House On Tuesday, June 19, the city will host an open house for the pub-lic to learn more about and provide comment on the Comprehensive Plan update and MnDOT Highway 95 Improvement Project (see page 1). The open house will be held at the Bay-port Library, 582 4th St. N. from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. We look forward to your participation and engagement!

Seeking Residents to Help Work on 2018 Election Days

The city is seeking resi-dents to help administer voting procedures for the upcoming Primary Election on August 14 and General Election on November 6. Duties include registering vot-ers, distributing ballots,

and staffing the polling place. Applicants must be eligible to vote, able to read, write, and speak English, and willing to work early morning/late evening hours on election days. Individuals selected will be trained on election procedures and work duties and paid for their service. If interested, contact City Hall at 651-275-4404 or email staylor@ci.bayport.mn.us.

Could Your Irrigation System Be Robbing You? Be Smart About Outdoor Water Use This Summer!By practicing easy, responsible habits, you cannot only prevent a hefty water bill this summer, but also help limit and prevent unnecessary outdoor water use in our community! Refer to the tips below to get green grass with less blue! Practice Conservation! - Water early in the morning to prevent evaporation- Limit lawn watering to 1 inch per week- Hand water lawn, garden, and landscaped areas - Use a hose with a shut-off nozzle to control flow- Observe city regulations by watering before 3:00 p.m. and after 8:00 p.m. on odd and even days by address, May 1-September 1

Irrigate Wisely!- Inspect and repair clogged, broken, or missing sprinkler heads- Adjust sprinklers to water lawn only; avoid overspray ontostreets, sidewalks, and driveways- Operate irrigation systems as necessary, not on a fixed schedule- Replace clock-based irrigation control- ers with Wi-Fi-connected WaterSense

certified smart controllers