From the Police Department

Time to Clean Out Your Medicine Cabinet   

The Hennepin County Sheriff's Office (HCSO) reminds you to properly dispose of expired and unwanted medications. In 2013, HCSO disposed of nearly seven tons of unwanted medicines. There are six disposal locations throughout the county including the Hennepin County Water Patrol site in Spring Park. This is the most environmentally-safe method of disposal. Storing medicine may lead to accidental poisoning or abuse. Prescription painkillers are typically the medicines that are abused most often and may lead to opiate addiction. For disposal locations, visit www.hennepin.us/medicine.

Crime Mapping Online 

The Orono Police Department is proud to announce a new online communication system for keeping citizens informed about crime in our community. This new system uses a crime map called RAIDS Online (www.raidsonline.com) that maps and analyzes crime data, alerts citizens to crimes in their area, and provides the Orono Police Department with the ability to alert citizens about crimes as they occur.

"The Orono Police Department's participation in RAIDS Online highlights their commitment to proactive communication with the public they serve," said Sean Bair, founder of BAIR Analytics, "We're excited to partner with the Orono Police Department to provide this free service for their public." Read more

From the Fire Department

Mound Fire Department Purchases Two Thermal Imaging Cameras  

The Mound Fire Department recently purchased two new Scott Eagle Attack Thermal Imaging Cameras at a price of $6,100 each. A large percentage (75%) of the cost of the cameras was paid with proceeds from the Mound Fire Department's Annual Fish Fry, and a donation from the Mound Volunteer Fire Department's Auxiliary.  Read more  

Storm drains are directly connected to the nearest body of water. Water running into storm drains can carry with it anything dumped nearby including leaves, grass clippings, soil, oil, paint, chemicals, and litter. You can help by adopting your nearby storm drain and keeping it free of leaves, seeds, grass clippings, and litter. Keeping storm drains clear will protect the water quality of nearby lakes, streams, and rivers. It can also help prevent localized flooding. Follow these easy tips  

Weight Restrictions

Seasonal weight restrictions started Friday, March 14 and will last to approximately May 15. City streets are appropriately posted but in a nutshell: most side streets are restricted to 4 ton per axle and the main county roads and small portions of side roads are 9 ton per axle.

Sewage Back-Up

Many household cleaning products are labeled and marketed as disposable however this does not necessarily mean flushable. The truth is many household wipes and cleaning towelettes have the ability to clog and stop-up not only the sewer line on your property but also can cause a blockage in the public sewer system and pump stations. Unlike toilet paper, these products don't break down once they are flushed. They can cause blockages, especially in older pipelines that may have grease, roots, or other already existing obstructions. A repair of the sewer line can leave the property owner with a hefty repair bill. Often this is not covered under an existing homeowners' insurance policy.

Congratulations

Utility Superintendent DJ Goman recently was awarded the State of Minnesota, Department of Public Safety, Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management's professional certificate of achievement for dedication to homeland security and emergency preparedness through professional development and successful completion of all training requirements. 

Property Value Market Notices 

Property value market notices were sent to property owners around the end of March. The notice states the estimated market value (EMV) of a property and its classification. The EMV represents an approximation of what the property may sell for based on market conditions and information relating to the property.  If the property owner believes the notice is incorrect and wants to discuss this further, please contact the city assessor at 952-472-0619.  

What: Annual Local Board of Appeal and Equalization  

When: Wednesday, April 16, 6-8 p.m.  

Where: Spring Park City Hall, 4349 Warren Avenue

Who: Property owner's with questions

Please call the assessor's office at the number above prior to the meeting so the assessor can be prepared to discuss the property.

Yard Waste Drop-off site for Spring Park residents~

Opening soon - Please call ahead to make sure they are open. 952-446-1056.  

Youth Boat Safety Course~ 

The Lake Minnetonka Conservation District (LMCD) through its Save the Lake Fund has partnered with the Hennepin County Sheriff's Office Water Patrol (Water Patrol) and Three Rivers Park District to create a Lake Minnetonka Boater Safety Education Program (primarily geared to youth).  Prior to the program's kickoff, the LMCD held a pilot program at the Water Patrol Office on November 16.

Next Boater Safety Training:

Who: Youth ages 12-17 (limited to the first 20 participants)
When: Saturday, April 26  8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.  

Where: Minnetonka Community Center, 14600 Minnetonka Blvd

Registration deadline: April 18 at 4:30 p.m.  

Cost: Free with lunch provided   

Further details: Contact LMCD office at 952-745-0789

Freshwater Society's Fourth Annual Ice OUT/Loon IN~ 

Guests at the Freshwater Society's Fourth Annual Ice OUT/Loon IN Fundraiser can connect with their friends and colleagues over festive drinks and mouth-watering dinner, purchase raffle tickets for exciting prizes, compete for the best loon call, and bid on many intriguing and entertaining live and silent auction items. For information go to www.freshwater.org.    

What: 4th Annual Ice OUT/Loon IN Freshwater Society's Fundraiser

When: Thursday, April 24 from 5:30-9:00 p.m.

Where: Lafayette Club in Minnetonka Beach

Pete Kaczanowski  

Michael Mason

Sarah Struck

Gavin Tempero   

E-mail: