http://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspxCurrent press releases and news stories from the City of Mankato5http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=15135<p>Monday, February 8-Snow removal crews reported at 5 a.m. and are expected to work throughout the day.&nbsp; The crews will&nbsp;return&nbsp;at 3 a.m.&nbsp;A&nbsp; snow emergency is expected to be called tomorrow--Tuesday, February 9.&nbsp; <br /> <br /> For safety purposes, Parkway Avenue hill is closed.&nbsp; The remaining barricades are prepositioned to close other hills in the city if necessary.</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=15135">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 08 Feb 2010 12:06:22 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=14986For safety reasons, Parkway Avenue hill is closed until further notice due to current road conditions. <p><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/SnowAlerts/Default.aspx">Sign up</a> to receive Mankato snow emergency alerts by text message. The city's goal is to inform citizens about snow emergencies in an effort to minimize, and ideally eliminate, towing. Additional ways to receive all the latest about <a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/Snow_and_Ice/Page.aspx">snow emergencies</a> in Mankato:</p> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/NewsEmail.aspx">Subscribe</a> to receive updates by email</li> <li>Mankato's <a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/">Web site</a></li> <li>via facebook.com</li> <li>via twitter.com</li> <li>Mankato's 24-hour snow emergency line at 507-387-9001</li> </ul> <p>For more information about snow removal in Mankato <a href="javascript:location.href='mailto:'+String.fromCharCode(112,119,97,115,101,64,99,105,116,121,46,109,97,110,107,97,116,111,46,109,110,46,117,115)+'?'">contact</a> public works staff at 507-387-8649.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=14986">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 08 Feb 2010 09:45:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=15048<a href=" http://www.mankato-mn.gov/Mankato-Minute/Page.aspx ">View </a>the latest Mankato Minute to learn why an accurate count is important.<table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="200" align="right" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td>&nbsp;<a href="<%=upload_url%>/Census flyer.pdf"><img height="82" alt="" width="200" border="0" src="<%=upload_url%>/2010Census-flyer_RESIZED.jpg" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td>&nbsp;<strong><em><font size="1">Help the city of Mankato lead the way to an accurate count.</font></em></strong></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>In challenging economic times, it&rsquo;s even more important to have a complete and accurate count of our population. For every person counted, the federal government allocates $1,000 per person, per year, for 10 years. This money is returned to our community where we live and work. Federal funding assists the city of Mankato in providing essential services such as sewer maintenance, snow plowing and public safety. For every person not counted, our community may lose up to $10,000 over the next 10 years until the next Census.</p> <p>A complete and accurate Census count:</p> <ul> <li>Determines how federal dollars are distributed to communities.</li> <li>Impacts the development of new businesses, highways and schools.</li> <li>Affects programs such as financial aid,&nbsp;health and hospital services and public transportation.</li> <li>Determines the number congressional seats per state and how many representatives we have in Congress who can advocate on our behalf.</li> </ul> <p>All household will receive a Census form by mail beginning in March.&nbsp; Mail back completed forms by April 1.&nbsp; <a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/Census2010/Default.aspx">Learn</a> more about the 2010 U.S. Census. For more information <a href="javascript:location.href='mailto:'+String.fromCharCode(99,100,97,112,50,64,99,105,116,121,46,109,97,110,107,97,116,111,46,109,110,46,117,115)+'?subject=2010%20Census'">contact</a> the city of Mankato at 507-387-8611.<br /> &nbsp;</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=15048">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsWed, 03 Feb 2010 09:40:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=15045Four individuals have been chosen as finalists for the director of Mankato's Department of Public Safety. The selection process was initiated with a nation-wide search, which resulted in submission of over 40 applications by qualified individuals. Selection of finalists was conducted by the Mankato Joint Civil Service Commission in conjunction with the city manager’s office. Utilization of the Civil Service Commission was incorporated into this process because, as a citizen commission, they infuse the community’s values into the operation of the Department of Public Safety. <p>Semi-finalists were selected based on a screening for pre-determined job related criteria and were then interviewed by telephone.&nbsp;Following the telephone interviews, preliminary background and reference checks were conducted on remaining semi-finalists.&nbsp; Finalists were selected based on outcomes of the telephone interviews and background checks.&nbsp; Civil Service Commission members and the city manager were extremely impressed with the quality of the applicants, especially the levels of experience and educational backgrounds.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br /> <br /> Finalists are James Coan, Shaun LaDue, Todd Miller, and Anthony Paetznick. These individuals were selected for their combined experience and educational background relative to the profile for the position.</p> <ul> <li>James Coan is currently Chief of Police in Whitewater, Wisconsin. He previously held positions with progressively increasing responsibility with the Appleton, Wisconsin Police Department. Coan possesses a bachelor of science degree in secondary education from Northern Michigan University and a master of science degree in criminal justice from Michigan State University. In addition, Coan has served as a college level criminal justice course instructor, president of the local police chief&rsquo;s association and completed ride-alongs with some of the nation&rsquo;s largest police departments. Coan possesses various executive management, law enforcement and fire science related training certificates. Coan believes in community-oriented policing, which places emphasis on close community interaction, problem solving and proactive policing strategies.<br /> &nbsp;</li> <li>Shaun LaDue is currently Police Chief in Owatonna, Minnesota. LaDue has served two decades in increasingly responsible&nbsp;command positions.&nbsp; In addition to Police Chief for Owatonna, LaDue served several key positions in the Bloomington, Minnesota Police Department's patrol division, administration division, and special operations; including SWAT commander and bomb squad commander. He has also served as a detention deputy for the Hennepin County Sheriff&rsquo;s Office and has held the role of interim commander for the South Central Drug Task Force. LaDue has a bachelor of science degree in accounting from St. Cloud State University and a masters of arts degree in public administration from Minnesota State University, Mankato. LaDue is a graduate of several leadership development programs, including the Southern Police Institute Administrative Officers Course, Police Executive Research Forum's Senior Management Institute for Police, FBI Law Enforcement Executive Development Program, and Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs Policy Fellows Program. LaDue has a proven commitment to community policing, a track record of improving service delivery, and a demonstrated ability to build and maintain strong relationships with the community, employees and other stakeholders.&nbsp;<br /> &nbsp;</li> <li>Todd Miller has over 32 years of experience in municipal government as a chief of police in the states of Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Texas. Miller was most recently Chief of Police with the City of Terrell, Texas. For the past year he has worked as a consultant, specializing in community policing initiatives while serving as the president of the North Texas Police Chief's Association. In addition, Miller has served as a director of municipal ambulance service, an emergency management director, and managed a regional communications center and records management systems. Miller has a bachelor of science degree in criminal justice from the University of Wisconsin, Platteville and a master of science degree in Management from Cardinal Stritch in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Miller also has experience as an instructor for various institutes, associations and at Willmar Community College. Miller is the graduate of several leadership development programs, including the School of Police Staff and Command at the Northwestern University Traffic Institute, FBI National Academy, and the Federal Emergency Management Institute. Miller is committed to community policing and its main tenets: partnerships with citizens and problem solving; believing that a leader must set the example and empower everyone within the agency and community to solve problems to improve community quality of life.<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;</li> <li>Anthony Paetznick is currently Deputy Fire Chief for the City of New Brighton, Minnesota; and in addition coordinates the city's Crime Free Multi Housing/Crime Prevention program as a licensed police officer. He also has held several positions progressing with more responsibility in both law enforcement and fire service. Paetznick has a bachelor of arts degree in criminal justice and Spanish from the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota and a master of arts in education &ndash; police leadership, education and administration from the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota. Paetznick has demonstrated public safety leadership and delivered award-winning performance in law enforcement and the fire service in both police and fire operations and administration of a multi-discipline agency in a suburban jurisdiction of a major metropolitan area.&nbsp;</li> </ul> <p>Candidates will be in Mankato February 18-19. During that time, they will tour the city, meet city personnel and make presentations before city personnel and representatives of community organizations, in addition to participating in interviews. Each candidate will complete the process with a final interview with City Manager Patrick Hentges.</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=15045">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 01 Feb 2010 17:05:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/yourTake.aspx?ytID=14992<p>Evaluating systems, the cost to do business compared to results, and reviewing internal processes periodically can improve service and create efficiencies to build capacity.&nbsp; <a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx">Learn </a>about proposed utility changes and give us your take.</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/yourTake.aspx?ytID=14992">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 01 Feb 2010 10:11:29 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=15005Thinking about buying a home? Learn more about the purchase process and financing options through the Home Stretch homebuyer education workshop. <p><strong>Upcoming Home Stretch course </strong></p> <ul> <li>Thursday February 4 and 11<br /> 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. <br /> Intergovernmental Center (10 Civic Center Plaza) <br /> Cost: $15</li> </ul> <p>Advance registration is requested due to limited seating. For more information or to register call Mankato's housing office at 507-387-8636.</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=15005">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 01 Feb 2010 10:10:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=15003At around 2:12 a.m. this morning (Saturday, January 30), Mankato Department of Public Safety police officers were called to First National Bank, 500 Long Street, for a report of an armed robbery. <p>The caller said they were making a business deposit at a bank, when an unknown male suspect approached, pointed a chrome pistol toward the person making the deposit and demanded the money bag. The suspect removed an undisclosed amount of money from the deposit bag and fled on foot. A second suspect also appeared.</p> <p>Suspect one is described as white male, 5&rsquo;11&rdquo; 150 pounds wearing a black hooded sweatshirt, black sweat pants, black gloves, tennis shoes, black ski mask (open over the bridge of the nose), navy blue bandana covering from his nose down.</p> <p>Suspect two is described as wearing all black.</p> <p>Both suspects fled on foot toward Madison East Mall.</p> <p>Case is under investigation. If anyone has information about the incident or the suspect, please contact Department of Public Safety at 507-387-8770.<br /> &nbsp;</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=15003">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsSat, 30 Jan 2010 10:00:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=15002Elk’s Nature Center in Rasmussen Woods (555 Stoltzman Road, Mankato) will be open Fridays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. beginning February 5—made possible through a partnership between the city of Mankato and Minnesota State University, Mankato. City staff is working with MSU, Mankato’s Department of Recreation, Parks and Leisure Services to develop programming and staff the facility with volunteers. <p>Volunteers are needed in all city services areas to maintain Mankato&rsquo;s quality of life. The city of Mankato is working to further engage citizens through volunteer opportunities by establishing a volunteer corps as a practical approach to getting things done. With the city experiencing major budget challenges, volunteers provide an effective and efficient way to support and enhance city services.</p> <p>For more information about city of Mankato volunteer opportunities <a href="javascript:location.href='mailto:'+String.fromCharCode(108,101,108,118,101,98,97,107,64,99,105,116,121,46,109,97,110,107,97,116,111,46,109,110,46,117,115)+'?subject=City%20of%20Mankato%20volunteer%20opportunities'">contact </a>Coordinator Laura Elvebak at 507-387-8621.<br /> &nbsp;</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=15002">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsFri, 29 Jan 2010 16:10:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=14997At approximately 4:36 a.m. today, Mankato Department of Public Safety police officers were called to 131 Bunting Lane for what was initially reported as a burglary. The caller said that a roommate was chasing the suspect through nearby apartment complexes. Officers responded to the area, but were unable to locate a suspect. <p><font face="Arial" size="2">Upon further investigation, responding officers discovered that an unknown male suspect had entered the apartment through an unlocked door. When he encountered one of the residents, the suspect brandished a gray colored handgun and pointed it at the resident. The suspect demanded computers and a cell phone then left the apartment with the items. <br /> <br /> The male suspect is described as 6 feet&nbsp;tall with a&nbsp;thin build, wearing a dark-colored jacket, jeans, white athletic shoes and a white scarf concealing his face. <br /> <br /> If anyone should have information concerning the incident or the suspect, please contact the Department of Public Safety at 387-8780.</font></p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=14997">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsThu, 28 Jan 2010 09:20:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14991<p><strong>Plan to attend <br /> </strong>The Mankato City Council is evaluating the possibility of discontinuing the practice of utility shut-offs in exchange for late fees and that utility bills be in the property owner&rsquo;s name. A public input&nbsp;opportunity is being held at 7 p.m. on Monday, February 8, at the City Council meeting, in the Minnesota River room at the Intergovernmental Center, 10 Civic Center Plaza.</p><p><strong>Efficiencies being considered</strong><br /> &bull; Instead of utility shut-offs, which are time consuming and costly, a late fee of $5 for any unpaid balance is being considered, plus 1 percent of any unpaid utility bill balance. The goal of a late fee is not to generate revenue; rather it&rsquo;s to cover costs associated with processing late payments. Delinquent utility bill statements would be sent for three months. The third statement would inform the property owner about any outstanding balance and fees that would be assessed to their property. Reworking shut-offs is estimate to generate savings of more than $100,000.</p> <p>&bull; To minimize maintenance expenses, also being proposed is future utility bill statements would be in each respective property owner&rsquo;s name. Altering names on utility bills creates an expense that amounts to hundreds of hours of city staff time each year. This change will have an effect on less than 50 percent of existing rental properties.</p> <p>&bull; Most (around 85 percent) of Mankato&rsquo;s utility bill customers consistently pay on time although there&rsquo;s room for improvement. To encourage payment on time, the city is considering a monthly $2 incentive when electing to pay using electronic fund transfer transaction through the utility customer&rsquo;s bank. A $1 monthly incentive would be given to customers who elect to utilize the city&rsquo;s paperless billing for their monthly statement. Instead, customers would receive an email detailing their utility bill. Incentive costs would be offset by savings the city will realize from printing, postage and manual handling.</p> <p>Evaluating systems, the cost to do business compared to results, and reviewing internal processes periodically can improve service and create efficiencies to build capacity.</p> <p>For more information about proposed utility changes <a href="javascript:location.href='mailto:'+String.fromCharCode(100,115,99,111,116,116,64,99,105,116,121,46,109,97,110,107,97,116,111,46,109,110,46,117,115)+'?subject=Utility%20operations'">contact</a> Finance Director Daniel Scott at 507-387-8670.<br /> &nbsp;</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14991">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsTue, 26 Jan 2010 15:00:47 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=14989At 2:45 p.m. today, police from the department of public safety were dispatched to 1318 South Riverfront Drive for a weapons complaint. The caller indicated that a gunshot had been heard from inside Burger King restaurant. No apparent injuries resulted from the gun shot.<p>Upon arrival, police found several customers and employees inside the restaurant who described that a male had exited the men&rsquo;s restroom just after the loud noise took place. An empty shell casing from a bullet and what appears to be a bullet hole was found inside the men&rsquo;s restroom.</p> <p>The male responsible for the gun shot fled the area prior to police arrival. The male or the weapon have not been located at this time.</p> <p>The male suspect is described as:<br /> &bull; Caucasian male<br /> &bull; Late teens to early 20&rsquo;s<br /> &bull; 5&rsquo;5&rdquo; to 5&rsquo;8&rdquo; tall<br /> &bull; Very thin build<br /> &bull; Tattoo(s) around his neck<br /> &bull; Wearing a baggy dark colored sweatshirt jacket with a white undershirt and dark colored baggy pants.</p> <p>The suspect possibly fled in a gold colored car.</p> <p>If anyone has information about the suspect, please contact the Department of Public Safety at 507-387-8780.&nbsp; Police wants to ensure the safety of the general public, but also wants to ensure the safety of the individual who fired the weapon.<br /> &nbsp;</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=14989">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 25 Jan 2010 16:55:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14928<p>Responsive, dedicated and open to new responsibilities are just a few attributes that describe Denise Boswell, City of Mankato 2009 Employee of the Year. Boswell goes above and beyond in providing building maintenance for the Intergovernmental Center and makes sure staff has a safe, clean work environment. Additionally, Boswell is also known as someone who is straightforward, caring and embraces challenge and change with a smile.&nbsp; Boswell has eight years of service with the City of Mankato.</p> <p>Doug Storm, Information Technology, was named 2009 Supervisor of the Year. Storm was recognized for implementing innovative ideas and looking for ways to improve efficiency within the organization. He seeks input from employees for methods to accomplish tasks and embodies the value of being neighborly through partnerships with local jurisdictions.&nbsp; Storm has served the City of Mankato for the past 20 years.</p> <p><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/WeSalute2009.pdf">View</a> additional City of Mankato employees recently honored for their years of dedicated and valuable service to Mankato residents.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14928">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsTue, 19 Jan 2010 09:17:21 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14927<p>Public Works crews will work through the weekend, specifically Saturday and Sunday afternoons, clearing excess snow buildup and gradually widening residential streets. City Manager Patrick Hentges asks for the public&rsquo;s patience in widening residential streets.&nbsp;&nbsp;A gradual effort is occurring because, with the unprecedented amount of snow, crews are using reduced speeds and appropriate equipment to avoid damaging private property and mailboxes, and to prevent placing excessive snow at crosswalks and on driveways and private property. Also, minimizing on-street parking Saturday and Sunday afternoon will help snowplow drivers to do a thorough job. Citizens are asked to report intersections or streets/locations with site-line safety concerns by contacting Mankato&rsquo;s public works office at 507-387-8649 or, after hours&mdash;911.</p><p>As we proceed into next week&mdash;</p> <ul> <li>Crews will continue work on removing snow from alleys and the remaining (approximately 40) cul-de-sacs within the city</li> <li>Workers operating loaders will be clearing excess snow from intersections to accomplish maximum visibility</li> <li>Hundreds of <a href="<%=upload_url%>/Mankato-Hydrants.pdf">fire hydrants</a> (tip&mdash;view map at 100 percent to see location detail) have had snow removed by public works and public safety-fire staff, and sentence-to-serve community service participants. These efforts will continue.</li> <li>Crews will continue to work on street conditions affected by water main breaks within the past week which include: corner of Main and Fourth Streets, 1501 Fair Street, 100 Long Street, 1600 Warren Street and 204 Emerson Lane.</li> </ul> <p>Up to this point, major routes throughout the city have been a major focus so dry pavement and maximum driving width could be achieved. City crews have concentrated on removing snow, widening streets and minimizing icy conditions.</p> <p>For questions or more information about snow removal <a href="javascript:location.href='mailto:'+String.fromCharCode(112,119,97,115,101,64,99,105,116,121,46,109,97,110,107,97,116,111,46,109,110,46,117,115)+'?subject=Snow%20removal'">contact</a> public works staff at 507-387-8649.</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14927">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsFri, 15 Jan 2010 16:43:28 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14904<p>With this week's warmer temperatures, efforts in Mankato's snow and ice removal include--</p> <div style="font-size: 7pt; float: right; width: 205px; text-align: center"><a onclick="window.open(this.href,'','resizable=yes,location=no,menubar=no,scrollbars=no,status=no,toolbar=no,fullscreen=no,dependent=no,width=555,height=405,status'); return false" href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/video/snow/SnowRemovalSlides.html"><img alt="Widening the Street" style="border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-bottom: medium none" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/Handlers/ContentImage/ID633/W200/H160/Q80/Wideningthestreet.JPG" /> </a><br /> Snow... snow... and more snow...<br /> View recent efforts of public works-streets team removing snow and ice from Mankato's streets. Also meet the crew here to serve you.<br /> Photos by Christy Freeberg, North Mankato<br /> (Click on photo for slideshow)</div> <ul> <li>Public works staff are removing snow from cul-de-sacs within Mankato</li> <li>City staff are removing&nbsp;snow from <a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Mankato-Hydrants.pdf">fire hydrants </a>(tip--view map at 100 percent to see location detail) within the city</li> <li>Roads are being scraped</li> <li>Crews are placing emphasis on snow removal at intersections</li> <li>Snow is being removed from alleys within the city</li> </ul><p>Within the past week, new fast facts about Mankato's snow-ice removal efforts:&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li>More than 820 working hours logged by city staff on snow and ice removal</li> <li>140 tons of salt has been applied to Mankato streets</li> <li>30 tons of sand spread over roads</li> <li>2,000 gallons of liquid salt brine was placed on streets</li> <li>Out of 118 cul-de-sacs, snow has been hauled away from almost half</li> </ul> <p>For questions&nbsp;or&nbsp;information about snow removal operations <a href="javascript:location.href='mailto:'+String.fromCharCode(112,119,97,115,101,64,99,105,116,121,46,109,97,110,107,97,116,111,46,109,110,46,117,115)+'?subject=Snow%20removal%20operations'">contact</a> Mankato's public&nbsp;works office at 507-387-8649 or, after hours--911.&nbsp;</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14904">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsThu, 14 Jan 2010 08:59:07 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14746<p>Community grant applications are being taken until 4:30 p.m. on Friday, January 29.&nbsp; <a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/CityManager/Community-Grant-Fund-Applicationand-Guidelines-2010.pdf">Grant applications </a>include the following categories and their respective goal:<br /> &nbsp;</p> <ul> <li>Community performing arts and music--enhance public performances in various genres of music and performing arts</li> <li>Community beautification and public art--to beautify and improve community and public spaces</li> <li>Community social services--provide social services that enhance&nbsp;quality of life and&nbsp;independence&nbsp;of service to recipients/clients</li> <li>Community events--provide opportunities of gathering for citizens that results in a positive economic impact</li> </ul> <p><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/Community-Grant-Program/Page.aspx">View</a> funding levels, eligibility requirements dates and other helpful information.<br /> <br /> For more information <a href="javascript:location.href='mailto:'+String.fromCharCode(116,97,110,103,101,64,99,105,116,121,46,109,97,110,107,97,116,111,46,109,110,46,117,115)+'?subject=2010%20Community%20Grant%20Program'">contact </a>the city of Mankato at 507-387-8609.</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14746">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsThu, 14 Jan 2010 08:57:45 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14794<p>City crews will remove snow from downtown Mankato beginning at 11 p.m. on Sunday, January 10 and anticipate snow removal efforts to continue throughout the night. It is helpful when streets are free of parked vehicles because it allows plow drivers to do their job.</p> <p>For questions about snow removal <a href="javascript:location.href='mailto:'+String.fromCharCode(112,119,97,115,101,64,99,105,116,121,46,109,97,110,107,97,116,111,46,109,110,46,117,115)+'?subject=Snow%20removal%20efforts'">contact</a> public works staff at 507-387-8649 or after hours&mdash;911.</p> <p>Since keeping fire hydrants clear of snow is critical to emergency response, city staff are marking fire hydrants with wooden stakes so the location is known for snow removal crews. There are more than 2,000 fire hydrants in the city of Mankato. Help us help you by adopting a fire hydrant to keep it clear of snow. Doing so gives firefighters efficient access in the event of a fire. <a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Mankato-Hydrants.pdf">View</a> a map to locate the hydrant in your neighborhood (tip--view map at 100 percent to see location detail).</p> <p>For more information <a href="javascript:location.href='mailto:'+String.fromCharCode(112,115,102,105,114,101,97,64,99,105,116,121,46,109,97,110,107,97,116,111,46,109,110,46,117,115)+'?subject=Adopt%20a%20fire%20hydrant'">contact</a> public safety-fire staff at 507-387-8577; or to report a damaged fire hydrant, <a href="javascript:location.href='mailto:'+String.fromCharCode(112,119,117,115,101,64,99,105,116,121,46,109,97,110,107,97,116,111,46,109,110,46,117,115)+'?'">contact</a> public works staff at 507-387-8660.</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14794">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 11 Jan 2010 14:59:02 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=14729The Mankato Department of Public Safety's annual "Keep the Wreath Bright...Prevent a Red Light" program to promote holiday safety concluded with one red bulb on the wreath, which signified that one residential or commercial fire occurred in Mankato during the holiday season. <p>This fire occurred at a residential property Tuesday, December 15. The occupant was transported to the hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation and two dogs died in the fire. Damages were estimated at $25,000. For the same time period in 2008 public safety-fire responded to nine fires.</p> <p>Prior to Thanksgiving Day the Mankato Fire Department placed a large wreath covered with white lights in front of fire station #1 located at 300 Madison Avenue. For each preventable fire that took place between Thanksgiving Day and New Year's Day, a white bulb was removed and replaced with a red bulb. This year, a blue bulb was added to indicate the one fire injury that occurred during the holiday season. The goal was to have no fires and to keep the wreath bright with white bulbs.</p> <p>For more information about fire safety contact public safety-fire staff at 507-387-8577.</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=14729">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsTue, 05 Jan 2010 15:40:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14719<p>City crews have been working extended hours during the recent snow events. Some fast facts include:</p> <ul> <li>More than 700 working hours were logged by city staff&mdash;generally staffed around-the-clock since Wednesday, December 23</li> <li>More than 42,000 cubic yards of snow have been removed and hauled away</li> <li>500 ton of salt applied to Mankato streets</li> <li>200 ton of sand spread over roads</li> <li>10,000 gallons of liquid salt brine placed on streets</li> </ul><p>City and county staff have worked together to coordinate having sentence-to-serve participants&nbsp;do community service by removing snow from public sidewalks and bus shelters.</p> <p>Since snow emergency operations have concluded, city staff is now directing their attention to widening residential streets and removing snow from cul-de-sacs and intersections. In combination with students returning to school from winter break, all sidewalks within the city must be clear of snow by Monday when ticketing enforcement will resume. Sanding and salting of streets will continue as needed.</p> <p>City crews appreciate the public&rsquo;s cooperation to keep roadways free of parked vehicles because it allows plow drivers to do their job.</p> <p>Help us help you by adopting a fire hydrant to keep it clear of snow. Due to the large amount of snow this year, it&rsquo;s especially important to keep them shoveled in case of a fire emergency. For more information <a href="javascript:location.href='mailto:'+String.fromCharCode(112,115,102,105,114,101,97,64,99,105,116,121,46,109,97,110,107,97,116,111,46,109,110,46,117,115)+'?subject=Adopt%20a%20fire%20hydrant'">contact</a> public safety-fire staff at 507-387-8577; or to report a damaged fire hydrant <a href="javascript:location.href='mailto:'+String.fromCharCode(112,119,117,115,101,64,99,105,116,121,46,109,97,110,107,97,116,111,46,109,110,46,117,115)+'?subject=damaged%20fire%20hydrant'">contact </a>public works staff at 507-387-8660.</p> <p>For questions about snow removal <a href="javascript:location.href='mailto:'+String.fromCharCode(112,119,97,115,101,64,99,105,116,121,46,109,97,110,107,97,116,111,46,109,110,46,117,115)+'?subject=snow%20removal'">contact</a> public works staff at 507-387-8649 or, after hours&mdash;911.</p> <p>For all the latest about <a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/Snow_and_Ice/Page.aspx">snow emergencies </a>in Mankato call 507-387-9001, 24 hours.<br /> &nbsp;</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14719">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsThu, 31 Dec 2009 14:30:51 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=14661Adopt a fire hydrant to keep it clear of snow. Doing so helps give firefighters efficient access in the event of a fire. <p>Due to the large amount of snow this year hydrants are sometimes buried. Although hydrants are made to break-off if hit, the cost to repair a broken hydrant can range from $600 to a few thousand dollars depending on the type of damage.</p> <p>For more information <a href="javascript:location.href='mailto:'+String.fromCharCode(112,115,102,105,114,101,97,64,99,105,116,121,46,109,97,110,107,97,116,111,46,109,110,46,117,115)+'?'">contact</a> public safety-fire staff at 507-387-8577; or to report a damaged fire hydrant <a href="javascript:location.href='mailto:'+String.fromCharCode(112,119,117,115,101,64,99,105,116,121,46,109,97,110,107,97,116,111,46,109,110,46,117,115)+'?'">contact</a> public works staff at 507-387-8660.<br /> &nbsp;</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=14661">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsWed, 23 Dec 2009 10:20:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/yourTake.aspx?ytID=14623<p>Since resources are limited, the city strategically plans far in advance for <a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/cm_CIP/Page.aspx">capital improvements</a>. The City Council is committed to preserving the city's infrastructure investment while recognizing the economic stimulus value. As we plan for our upcoming construction season and beyond, what's &quot;<a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/yourTake.aspx?ytID=14623">your take</a>&quot; about which street projects should be designated as a priority?<br /> &nbsp;</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/yourTake.aspx?ytID=14623">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsFri, 18 Dec 2009 15:01:09 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14614<p>It may seem as though construction season has just ended; however, the city of Mankato is preparing for street projects&mdash;part of the city&rsquo;s <a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/cm_CIP/Page.aspx">capital improvement plan</a>&mdash;that are scheduled to begin in the spring. Mankato&rsquo;s Engineering Department oversees the planning and designing of new construction and reconstruction of Mankato&rsquo;s sanitary sewers, water mains, storm drainage systems, streets and sidewalks and other projects to support residents and businesses and enhance overall livability of the community.</p> <p><strong>Proposed street reconstruction projects planned to begin spring 2010 </strong></p> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/West-Second-and-Marcy-streets and Marcy-Streets.pdf">West Second Street and Marcy Street</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Oak-Knoll-Phase2.pdf">Oak Knoll&mdash;Phase 2</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Marsh-Street.pdf">Marsh Street</a>&nbsp;</li> <li><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Rogers-Street.pdf">Rogers Street</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Thompson-Ravine-Road.pdf">Thompson Ravine Road</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Sibley-Parkway-Phase2B.pdf">Sibley Parkway&mdash;Phase 2B</a></li> </ul> <p>All proposed street reconstruction projects being assessed to abutting properties require public hearings and need approval by the City Council prior to moving forward.</p><p><strong>Strategic planning--how projects are selected <br /> </strong>According to City Engineer Jeff Johnson, determining a high priority street project is like fitting together pieces of a puzzle. Streets are evaluated to determine maintenance and improvement needs. &ldquo;Our staff inspects one-third of city streets each year, which gives an idea of what the street will look like over time based on the condition at the time of inspection,&rdquo; said Johnson. This surface inspection generates a potential list of future street reconstruction projects. A rating system is also used to prioritize infrastructure projects. If both the street and utilities need to be replaced, it can be done at the same time and the road only needs to be reconstructed once, to save money and minimize inconvenience. Preventative maintenance helps make the streets last as long as possible. Generally, streets are repaved with an asphalt overlay at least once before being rebuilt. When feasible, the city seal coats asphalt pavement to lengthen the time between street reconstruction periods. As a rule of thumb, the cost of an asphalt overlay is one-tenth the cost of street reconstruction and the cost of seal coating is about one-hundredth the cost of street reconstruction<strong>.<br /> </strong><br /> <strong>Informing citizens<br /> </strong>It is a priority for the city of Mankato to keep citizens who live in respective project areas informed throughout the process:</p> <ul> <li>A <a href="<%=upload_url%>/Informational-meeting-letter.pdf">letter</a> is sent by engineering staff to property owners, notifying them when a street project is a high priority for possible construction in their neighborhood. The property owner is invited to attend an informational meeting about the project.</li> <li>A public hearing on proposed improvement is held at a city council meeting generally two weeks following the informational meeting.</li> <li>Once the City Council approves a proposed project, the design is finalized</li> <li>Engineering staff conducts individual follow-up with citizens as requested</li> <li>Property owners are sent a <a href="<%=upload_url%>/Assessment-hearing-letter.pdf">letter</a> explaining proposed assessments associated with the improvement.</li> <li>A public hearing on proposed assessments is held at a city council meeting generally three to four weeks following public hearing.</li> <li>Prior to construction, engineering staff meets on-site with property owners to answer questions and provide any additional information about the project.</li> </ul> <p>For more information about 2010 street reconstruction projects <a href="javascript:location.href='mailto:'+String.fromCharCode(106,106,111,104,110,115,111,110,64,99,105,116,121,46,109,97,110,107,97,116,111,46,109,110,46,117,115)+'?subject=2010%20street%20projects'">contact </a>City Engineer Jeff Johnson at 507-387-8640.&nbsp; For questions about special assessments <a href="javascript:location.href='mailto:'+String.fromCharCode(109,114,105,101,98,101,114,64,99,105,116,121,46,109,97,110,107,97,116,111,46,109,110,46,117,115)+'?subject=2010%20special%20assessments'">contact </a>Mark Rieber at 507-387-8633.</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14614">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsThu, 17 Dec 2009 16:56:20 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14562<p class="newsdescription">In these tough economic times, the city of Mankato remains committed to provide safe winter driving conditions. Cuts to Mankato's Local Government Aid (LGA) required the city to reduce the city's snow plowing budget by 10 percent and look at innovative ways to provide city services. Mankato has made some changes to its snow removal process in an attempt to save money in overtime pay and vehicle maintenance and operational costs.<br /> <br /> To keep commerce moving, allow people to go to work, and for safety purposes during major snow events, it's the city's policy to focus on main roads within the city. As in the past, and only in dangerous driving conditions will the following problem hills be closed for safety reasons--Parkway Avenue, Monks Avenue, Warren Street and Stadium Road. The snowplow will pass through once on all other major hills until the snow event has ended. This approach is designed to ensure efficient and effective snow removal from city streets in an effort to keep routes safe and open. To minimize overtime costs, <a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/Snow_and_Ice/Page.aspx"><strong><font color="#004e82">snow emergencies </font></strong></a>will be called more frequently and residential streets will be kept open.&nbsp; Passable roads are the goal with complete&nbsp;curb-to-curb street cleanup to follow later.</p><div class="featureStory"> <p><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/SnowAlerts/Default.aspx"><strong><font color="#004e82">Sign up </font></strong></a>to receive Mankato snow emergency alerts by text message. The city's goal is to inform citizens about snow emergencies in an effort to minimize, and ideally eliminate, towing. Additional ways to receive all the latest about snow emergencies in Mankato:</p> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/NewsEmail.aspx"><strong><font color="#004e82">Subscribe</font></strong></a> to receive updates by email</li> <li>Mankato's <a href="http://www.ci.mankato.mn.us/"><strong><font color="#004e82">Website</font></strong></a></li> <li>via facebook.com</li> <li>via twitter.com</li> <li>Mankato's 24-hour snow emergency line at 507-387-9001</li> </ul> <p>For more information about snow removal in Mankato <a href="javascript:location.href='mailto:'+String.fromCharCode(112,119,97,115,101,64,99,105,116,121,46,109,97,110,107,97,116,111,46,109,110,46,117,115)+'?subject=snow%20removal'"><strong><font color="#004e82">contact</font></strong></a> public works staff at 507-387-8649.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> </div><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14562">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsThu, 17 Dec 2009 08:52:42 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=14611The Mankato City Council evaluated the performance of City Manager Patrick Hentges on December 7 in closed session. Through the evaluation process, the City Council considered the City Manager’s overall performance, as well as performance in eight specific performance areas. The City Council concluded that Hentges consistently exceeded the performance requirements in all eight areas during 2009. <p>The performance areas in which the City Council evaluated Hentges are:<br /> 1) Organizational management<br /> 2) Fiscal/business management<br /> 3) Program development and follow-through<br /> 4) Relationship with the City Council<br /> 5) Long range planning<br /> 6) Relationship with public and private sector organizations<br /> 7) Interagency relations<br /> 8) Professional/personal development<br /> <br /> Consensus of the City Council was that Hentges&rsquo; performance was exceptional. He was praised for his overall leadership to the city of Mankato organization. Council Members praised him for his strategic approach to planning and budgeting for a new and better service model in alignment with current fiscal challenges facing the city and state. The Council concluded that the leadership exhibited by Hentges has positioned the city of Mankato organization and staff for the challenges of the future.<br /> <br /> The City Council took action, at tonight&rsquo;s meeting, to adjust Hentges&rsquo; wages based on the evaluation, his performance level and external market factors. However, Hentges will be furloughed for a number of days that will equal the dollar value of the wage increase so that the net effect of the wage adjustment in 2009 will be that of no increase. A furlough is a leave of absence without pay that is implemented as a temporary cost savings measure. Hentges wages were not adjusted in&nbsp;three of the last&nbsp;six years despite performance evaluations identifying his performance as excellent. In light of the budget situation there's a desire to hold steady the personnel costs for the city manager function but without the adverse impact to potential retirement earning that can be caused by a wage freeze. The city will make retirement contributions on the adjusted wage amount even though he will not be receiving that amount monetarily in salary.<br /> <br /> Hentges has served as Mankato's City Manager since 1996.</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=14611">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 14 Dec 2009 20:25:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/yourTake.aspx?ytID=14542<p>Economic pressures, including a $1.3 million reduction in local government aid, have forced the City of Mankato to redefine service levels in order to reduce expenditures by approximately $3 million. Mankato's <a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/2010-Proposed-Budget[1].pdf">proposed 2010 budget </a>attempts to balance the needs of a thriving regional center and address unprecedented budget challenges. In order to balance our community needs, we have identified, defined, and redefined core, secondary, and livability services. The proposed budget also includes adjustments and organizational alignment to promote efficiency and customer service. Since the city is down 16 positions, it will result in service level changes.</p><p>Redefined service levels (specifically livability services), budgetary reductions and increase in our tax capacity will result in an annual property tax reduction for Mankato property owners. The result is approximately a $4 reduction on a residential property valued at $165,000, and a $67 reduction on a commercial/industrial property valued at $500,000. The City of Mankato continually strives to keep the net tax capacity extension rate stable. In fact, our extension rate will be reduction from 38.30 to 38.03. The net tax capacity extension rate is the rate at which a property tax bill is calculated. This rate is calculated by dividing the levy of a jurisdiction into the Net Tax Capacity (assessed value &ndash; net of any tax increment).</p> <p>The City of Mankato&rsquo;s budgeting strategies, especially when faced with economic challenges and the governor&rsquo;s unallotment of Local Government Aid decision, have faired well with Moody&rsquo;s Investors Services and Standard and Poor&rsquo;s rating services. The City has &ldquo;AA&rdquo; rating from Standard and Poor and &ldquo;Aa3&rdquo; rating from Moody&rsquo;s Investor Services. The City is now seeding the bonding ratings payoff-to the tune of $1.4 million over the life of the bonds on a recent bond sale. The City sells bonds to finance capital projects such as street reconstructions.</p> <p>The Mankato City Council will formally adopt the 2010 budget during the city council meeting at 7 p.m. on Monday, December 14 in the Minnesota River Room (first floor of the Intergovernmental Center, 10 Civic Center Plaza).</p> <p>View the <a href="<%=upload_url%>/BudgetPresentation.pdf">2010 budget presentation.</a></p> <p>Give us &quot;your take&quot; about the proposed 2010 City of Mankato budget.</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/yourTake.aspx?ytID=14542">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsThu, 10 Dec 2009 12:56:08 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=14543In Minnesota, alcohol-related crashes account for up to 200 traffic deaths and nearly 400 serious injuries each year. To combat the serious threat of impaired driving on area roads, the Minnesota River Valley Safe & Sober Coalition will conduct extra Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) patrols through December as part of a statewide effort. <p>Timing is relevant as December is among the deadliest months for alcohol-related crashes and DWI arrests. The enforcement campaign includes participation from around 400 Minnesota law enforcement agencies, all deploying extra officers to target impaired drivers. The Minnesota River Valley Safe &amp; Sober Coalition includes the Minnesota State Patrol, Blue Earth County and Nicollet County Sheriff's offices, Mankato Department of Public Safety, and the North Mankato and St. Peter Police departments.</p> <p>More than 500,000 Minnesotans have a DWI on record &mdash; translating to one in eight Minnesota drivers with a DWI, which results in loss of license for at least 90 days and costs up to $20,000 when factoring in increased insurance costs, legal and other fees. &ldquo;Avoiding a DWI arrest simply comes down to having a plan for a safe and sober ride,&rdquo; said Mankato Police Officer Adam Gray. &ldquo;There&rsquo;s no excuse for driving impaired and putting lives at risk on our roads.&rdquo;</p> <p>Alcohol-related crashes and fatalities have been declining in recent years, and enhanced DWI enforcement campaigns have been a major factor in Minnesota continuing a trend of lower alcohol-related traffic deaths. In 2008, there were 163 deaths--a record low. Despite the drop in alcohol-related deaths, drinking and driving crashes still account for more than one-third of all traffic deaths annually.</p> <p>Each year, around 75 percent of the impaired drivers killed in crashes are also not belted. According to Officer Gray, Minnesota's primary seat belt law will help officers stop impaired drivers before they do harm to others or themselves. During 2006&ndash;2008 in Blue Earth and Nicollet Counties, there were nine alcohol-related deaths of which three were unbelted. Statewide during this same period there were 394 alcohol-related deaths of which 256 were unbelted. The primary seat belt law became effective in June 2009. Drivers and passengers in any seat, even in the back, must be belted or in the correct child restraint. Law enforcement will stop and ticket motorists and passengers for belt violations. Belt fines are more than $100.</p> <p>The DWI enforcement is funded by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and administered by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety. The campaign is a component of the state&rsquo;s cornerstone traffic safety platform, Toward Zero Deaths (TZD). TZD uses a multidisciplinary approach to reduce crashes, fatalities and injuries through enhanced enforcement, improved engineering, educational outreach and efficient emergency trauma response.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=14543">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsFri, 04 Dec 2009 10:45:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14536<p>New on Mankato&rsquo;s Website is a public safety-<a onclick="window.open(this.href,'','resizable=yes,location=no,menubar=no,scrollbars=no,status=no,toolbar=no,fullscreen=no,dependent=no,width=900,height=700,status'); return false" href="http://secure.mankato-mn.gov/maps/Police-Service-Calls.html">police calls for service map</a>. The electronic map is a communication tool to show where police calls for service occur within the city.<br /> <br /> Even though additional detailed crime analysis tools are used by public safety officials, the online map can serve as a benefit in proactive policing because by knowing where calls originate, it can influence deployment of resources such as specialized patrol; and serve as a benefit to neighborhoods by providing awareness on if calls are originating in the respective neighborhood.&nbsp;</p><p>Map data is available dating back to January 2009. By the middle of each month the previous month&rsquo;s data will be available. Due to the nature of the information, city staff will electronically mine information and make it available for viewing by the public. More detailed information, including protected information will be available to help public safety officials prevent and solve crimes.</p> <p>A <a onclick="window.open(this.href,'','resizable=yes,location=no,menubar=no,scrollbars=no,status=no,toolbar=no,fullscreen=no,dependent=no,width=900,height=700,status'); return false" href="http://secure.mankato-mn.gov/maps/Police-Service-Calls.html">disclaimer</a> covers how police calls for service data and statistics that appear on the map are for informational purposes. Information about several different types of police calls will be available by neighborhood or city ward&mdash;assaults, burglary, disturbance, drugs, driving while under the influence, to name a few.<br /> <br /> For more information about the police calls for service map <a href="javascript:location.href='mailto:'+String.fromCharCode(112,115,106,115,98,97,64,99,105,116,121,46,109,97,110,107,97,116,111,46,109,110,46,117,115)+'?subject=Public%20Safety-police%20calls%20for%20service%20map'">contact </a>public safety staff at 507-387-8795.</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14536">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsTue, 01 Dec 2009 13:19:38 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/yourTake.aspx?ytID=14501<p>The City Manager did a merger study in response to a challenging economic climate. Preliminary results were presented at the Mankato City Council&rsquo;s recent work session. The study revealed if Mankato and North Mankato merged a minimum savings of $2.2 million would be realized and passed directly to taxpayers.</p> <p>This study was based solely on the 2008 financial and bond statements. It establishes a baseline only and does not make judgments on service delivery or financial stewardship of either city. Initial numbers reveal some basic savings.&nbsp;</p><p>Property tax savings on a $165,000 residential property would represent a savings of about $74/year in Mankato and $206/year in North Mankato. The savings on a $256,000 home in Mankato would be about $111/year, and in North Mankato a savings of $312/year.</p> <p>Annual commercial property tax savings on a $100,000 property in Mankato would be $67, and the savings in North Mankato--$187. A $9.5 million property in Mankato would have a tax savings of $8,428/year, and in North Mankato $23,600/year.</p> <p><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/mergerstudyrevised.pdf">View</a> the report findings and give us &ldquo;your take&rdquo; about a Mankato and North Mankato merger.<br /> &nbsp;</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/yourTake.aspx?ytID=14501">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsWed, 25 Nov 2009 19:49:12 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/yourTake.aspx?ytID=14487<p>In anticipation of retirements affecting upper level Public Safety staff positions, an independent/outside evaluation was initiated by the City Manager to gauge key items in public safety--departmental internal communication, teamwork, training, diversity, operational issues&mdash;deployment and resource allocation and city spending comparisons.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>After reading <a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/Projects/CM.aspx">information </a>on Mankato&rsquo;s Website, what is &ldquo;your take&rdquo; about the public safety study and findings?<br /> &nbsp;</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/yourTake.aspx?ytID=14487">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsWed, 25 Nov 2009 08:37:28 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14500<p>In response to these difficult and challenging economic times, Mankato City Manager Patrick Hentges has prepared a <a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/mergerstudyrevised.pdf">presentation</a> to the Mankato City Council that includes a baseline financial comparison evaluating economies of scale and identifies any savings and value in merging Mankato and North Mankato. Experiencing one of the most significantly depressed economic climates in decades requires government leaders to have the courage to review and assess every possibility within their scope of responsibility.</p><p>No previous study existed that looked at comprehensive baseline data to evaluate if a merger makes sense economically and otherwise. This baseline data will provide a starting point. Unfortunately, both cities from time to time are guilty of presenting data sets and comparison in a manner that attempts to show one city in a more favorable light over that of the other community.</p> <p>The study was done totally by looking at raw numbers from official documents of the two cities&mdash;2008 audited financial statements, recent bond offering documents and the 2008 adopted budgets. Spending levels, tax revenues, debt levels, enterprise funds, fixed asset values, utilities and comparisons of service were all considerations, as well as service attributes of the two cities. One of the unknowns is what means are being taken by cities due to further budget reductions. Findings are only preliminary and require North Mankato&rsquo;s officials to review before completion. The study does not address many intangibles affecting a merger; i.e., service levels, employee influence, tradition, and community pride to name a few.</p> <p>It must be emphasized that the study is not intended to make judgment, rate service levels, or the financial superiority or stewardship of one city over that of the other community. From this perceptive, both cities deliver service levels and tailor city budgets to the needs and characteristics of the community. As the study reveals, the cities have been designated differently by various state and federal entities which influences how each city approaches governance, services, budgeting and finance.</p> <p>Viewing the Mankato and North Mankato merger study as a baseline document, it would be important to give the topic much closer analysis in an attempt to collect a foundation of facts. In the event elected officials find value in the merger study, the next step would be to talk about intangibles that seem to be lightning rods&mdash;service levels, names, employee impact, process and form of government.</p> <p>Importantly and ultimately, a merger is a decision that would have to be agreed upon by city councils and citizens.<br /> &nbsp;</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14500">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsTue, 24 Nov 2009 09:09:23 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14458<p>Copies of Mankato&rsquo;s 2010 calendar are available at the city offices customer services desk on first floor of the Intergovernmental Center, 10 Civic Center Plaza, or by calling the Public Information Office at 507-387-8692.</p> <p>A 40-year tradition, the city calendar is a useful communication tool that features public meeting dates and locations, contact information, 24-hour service numbers and important key city service messages for residents. An <a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/PhotoContest/Page.aspx">annual photo contest</a> encourages citizen involvement and showcases Mankato&rsquo;s quality of life and spaces and places.</p> <p><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/2010_Mankato-calendar.pdf">Download the 2010 Mankato calendar.</a><br /> <br /> &nbsp;</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14458">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsWed, 18 Nov 2009 08:59:27 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=14459City Manager Patrick Hentges said the city has started an independent nationwide search for a new Director of Public Safety, including the use of professional bulletins and Websites. “We’re hoping to hire a proven leader to provide dynamic and innovative leadership to police and fire staff to serve the needs of a growing, diverse regional center,” said Hentges. “This includes addressing the challenges and opportunities outlined in our recent public safety study.” <p>The city of Mankato is committed to the economy a public safety model provides. Our public safety staff is cross-trained so in a time of need we can mobilize all of our fire and police resources to best serve citizens. We&rsquo;re able to provide maximum protection and safety while ensuring the best use of public dollars.</p> <p>Applicants will be prescreened by telephone and finalists will be invited to the community for an open interview process. Mankato&rsquo;s Joint Civil Service Commission&mdash;a standing appointed group of citizens will assist with prescreening applicants and identifying the finalists. Additionally, a community committee of law enforcement, council members, university and school members will assist in interviewing finalists at an open public forum. Finalists will also be asked to give presentations to the department.</p> <p>Applicants will be asked to submit a city of Mankato employment application form and resume by Thursday, December 31. The <a href="http://secure.mankato-mn.gov/Employment/JobsDetail.aspx?job_id=f7fc8042-d209-411c-b293-4acaf0064313">job description</a>, <a href="<%=upload_url%>/publicsafetydirectorrecruitmentprofile.pdf">recruitment profile</a> and <a href="http://secure.mankato-mn.gov/Employment/ApplyIntro.aspx?job_id=f7fc8042-d209-411c-b293-4acaf0064313">application </a>are available online at www.ci.mankato.mn.us. For more information about Mankato&rsquo;s public safety director position or recruitment process <a href="mailto:cmhras@city.mankato.mn.us?subject=Public Safety Director employment opportunity">contact </a>human resources staff at 507-387-8664.<br /> &nbsp;</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=14459">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 16 Nov 2009 17:05:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14437<p>The city of Mankato received a &ldquo;AA&rdquo; rating from Standard and Poor&rsquo;s rating services this month and the city&nbsp;also&nbsp;received an affirmation of the &ldquo;Aa3&rdquo; rating from Moody&rsquo;s Investor Services. Last December Moody's Investor Services upgraded Mankato's bond rating to a Aa3 rating because analysts were impressed with the City Council's strategic decision making inthe areas of budget management, cash reserves and debt management.&nbsp; The ratings represents the fourth bond rating upgrade within the past five years.<br /> <br /> Now the city is seeing its bond rating upgrades payoff&mdash;to the tune of $1.4 million. &ldquo;We can now obtain money for capital improvement projects at a lower rate estimated to save citizens $1.4 million on this bond offering alone,&rdquo; said Patrick Hentges, City Manager. &ldquo;We knew there were many benefits to the city getting a bond upgrade, now we&rsquo;re at a crossroad where we can actually experience substantial interest savings.&rdquo;</p><p>Several of Mankato&rsquo;s strategies have helped the city realize significant savings:</p> <ul> <li>Rapid debt amortization</li> <li>Adequate cash reserves</li> <li>Budgeting strategies when faced with economic challenges and governor&rsquo;s unallotment of Local Government Aid decision</li> <li>Strong tax base growth</li> <li>Debt levels that will moderate as the civic center bonds are paid in full and ahead of schedule</li> <li>Mankato&rsquo;s debt choices have positioned the city for growth</li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;The refinancing of civic center revenue bonds will result in bond interest savings estimated at $450,000. In addition, the refinancing of general obligation improvement bonds originally issued in 2000, 2001 and 2002, are expected to result in interest savings estimated at $240,000.</p> <p>&nbsp;As a result of the bond rating upgrades, new general obligation debt issues, Series &ldquo;A&rdquo; and &ldquo;B&rdquo;, will experience a combined interest savings of $750,000 over the duration of the debt.</p> <p>&nbsp;Bond issues:</p> <ul> <li>&ldquo;A&rdquo; bonds, in the amount of $7.6 million, will fund Mankato&rsquo;s upcoming <a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/cm_CIP/Page.aspx">capital improvement projects </a>and have a payment duration of 10 years.</li> <li>The &ldquo;B&rdquo; bond issue is for $845,000 and will fund parks related development.</li> <li>&ldquo;C&rdquo; &ndash; $9.3 million to refinance the civic center&rsquo;s variable to a fixed interest rate with the debt fully repaid by 2018.</li> <li>&ldquo;D&rdquo; &ndash; $6.7 million to refinance from a variable to a fixed interest rate for past capital improvement projects to be repaid in four years.</li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;Mankato&rsquo;s overall strategic financial planning and management have been key to Mankato receiving strong bond ratings that ultimately provide substantial dollar savings as evidenced by this bond sale.</p> <p>&nbsp;For more information about Mankato&rsquo;s financial strategies contact City Manager <a href="javascript:location.href='mailto:'+String.fromCharCode(112,104,101,110,116,103,101,115,64,99,105,116,121,46,109,97,110,107,97,116,111,46,109,110,46,117,115)+'?subject=Mankato's%20financial%20strategies'">Patrick Hentges </a>at 507-387-8695 or Director of Finance <a href="javascript:location.href='mailto:'+String.fromCharCode(100,115,99,111,116,116,64,99,105,116,121,46,109,97,110,107,97,116,111,46,109,110,46,117,115)+'?subject=Mankato's%20financial%20strategies'">Daniel Scott </a>at 507-387-8670.</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14437">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsFri, 13 Nov 2009 07:18:08 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/yourTake.aspx?ytID=14340<p>Partnerships are a priority of the city of Mankato organization.&nbsp; In addition to <a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Partnerships.pdf">current partnerships</a>, give us &quot;your take&quot; about ways to expand the list.</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/yourTake.aspx?ytID=14340">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsThu, 08 Oct 2009 10:41:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14301<p>Results are in for Mankato&rsquo;s 2010 calendar photo contest. John Cross, a photographer at <em>The Free Press</em>, judged the more than 300 entries submitted. The calendar&mdash;a 40 year tradition&mdash;is a useful communication tool that features public meeting dates and locations, contact information, 24-hours service numbers and important key city services messages for residents.</p>The annual photo contest encourages citizen involvement and showcases Mankato&rsquo;s quality of life and identifiable places within the city. The top two winning photographs are enlarged, framed and placed on display at the Intergovernmental Center. First and second place winners will be announced during the Mankato City Council meeting at 6 p.m. on Monday, October 26.&nbsp; This year&rsquo;s winners are: <br /> <br /> <a href="<%=upload_url%>/Winter-at-the-gazebo_by-LaVonne-Smasal_North Mankato_January.pdf">Winter at the gazebo</a> by LaVonne Smasal, North Mankato--<strong>January</strong><br /> <a href="<%=upload_url%>/Sunny-ice-in-the-meadow-at-Rasmussen-Woods_by-Paul-Vogel_Mankato_February.pdf">Sunny ice in the meadow at Rasmussen Woods</a> by Paul Vogel, Mankato--<strong>February <br /> </strong><a href="<%=upload_url%>/Cattle-posing-at-Sibley_by-Julie-Thorleifson_Mankato_March.pdf">Cattle posing at Sibley Park</a> by Julie Thorleifson, Mankato--<strong>March</strong> <br /> <a href="<%=upload_url%>/Lighting-Your-Way-on-Sibley-Parkway_by-Erick-Raygor_Lake Crystal_April.pdf">Lighting your way on Sibley Parkway </a>by Erick Raygor, Lake Crystal--<strong>April<br /> </strong><a href="<%=upload_url%>/City-Center-blooms_by-Terri-Degezelle_Mankato_May.pdf">City Center blooms</a> by Terri DeGezelle, Mankato--<strong>May </strong><br /> <a href="<%=upload_url%>/The-magic-of-the-pond-at-Sibley-Park_Vicki-Lauruhn_North-Mankato_June.pdf">The magic of the pond at Sibley Park</a> by Vicki Lauruhn, North Mankato--<strong>June </strong><br /> <a href="<%=upload_url%>/Hurrah!_by-Allen-Schmidt_Mankato_July.pdf">Hurrah!&nbsp;It's a home run</a>&nbsp;by Allen Schmidt, Mankato--<strong>July <br /> </strong><a href="<%=upload_url%>/Foggy-Morning-at-Beautiful-Sibley-Park_Jeri-Clement_Mankato_August.pdf">Foggy morning in beautiful Sibley Park</a> by Jeri Clement, Mankato--<strong>August&nbsp;<br /> </strong><a href="<%=upload_url%>/Iron-Horse_by-Jim-Hodapp_Mankato_September.pdf">Iron horse--connecting with our heritage</a> by Jim Hodapp, Mankato--<strong>September</strong> <br /> <a href="<%=upload_url%>/Autumn-Solitude_by-Jason-Bennett_Mankato_October.pdf">Autumn solitude</a> by Jason Bennett, Mankato--<strong>October <br /> </strong><a href="<%=upload_url%>/Early-Snow-on-Chapman-Road_by-Charles-Berg_Mankato_November.pdf">Early snow on Chapman Road in Mankato</a> by Charles Berg, Mankato--<strong>November <br /> </strong><a href="<%=upload_url%>/All-is-Calm-by_Randy-Wood_Mankato_December.pdf">All is calm</a> by Randy Wood, Mankato--<strong>December</strong> <br /> <br /> Additionally, the following honorable mention photos will appear in the 2010 calendar:<br /> <br /> <a href="<%=upload_url%>/A-Mankato-tradition_Jenny-Wanderscheid_Mankato.pdf">A Mankato tradition</a> by Jenny Wanderscheid, Mankato<br /> <a href="<%=upload_url%>/Smooth-and-calm_Ann-Morsching_Maplewood.pdf">Smooth and calm</a> by Ann Morsching, Maplewood<br /> <a href="<%=upload_url%>/A-proud-history_Jackie-Lupkes_Mankato_.pdf">A proud history </a>by&nbsp;Jackie Lupkes, Mankato<br /> <a href="<%=upload_url%>/My-Idol_Kristy-Kanstrup_Mankato.pdf">My idol</a> by Kristy Kanstrup, Mankato<br /> <a href="<%=upload_url%>/Pathway_Brian-McEvoy_Mankato.pdf">Pathway at Rasmussen Woods</a> by Brian McEvoy, Mankato<br /> <a href="<%=upload_url%>/Sponge-Painting_Mary-Kay-Ash-SSND_Mankato.pdf">Sponge painting</a> by Mary Kay Ash, SSND, Mankato<br /> <a href="<%=upload_url%>/The-baby-Blue-Earth_Bob-Hendrick_Mankato.pdf">The baby Blue Earth</a> by Bob Hendrick, Mankato<br /> <a href="<%=upload_url%>/Sunset-on-the-way-to-Sibley_Sara-Gorman_North Mankato.pdf">Sunset on the way to Sibley</a> by Sara Gorman, North Mankato&nbsp;<br /> <a href="<%=upload_url%>/What's-it-to-ya_Jenna-Hiniker_Mankato.pdf">What's it to ya</a> by Jenna Hiniker, Mankato<br /> <br /> Look for the calendar in the November 17 issue of the Home Magazine. It will also be available online at <a href="http://www.ci.mankato.mn.us"><em>www.ci.mankato.mn.us</em></a><em>.&nbsp;</em> <p>For more information <a href="mailto:cmpia@city.mankato.mn.us">contact</a> Mankato's public information office at 507-387-8692.<br /> </p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14301">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsTue, 06 Oct 2009 14:43:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=14329The City of Mankato has been awarded approximately $420,000 in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Justice Assistance grant funding, on behalf of the <a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/Projects/PS.aspx">South Central Minnesota Computer Consortium,</a> for an e-citation project.The e-citation system provides an electronic format to process a majority of all traffic citations. This system will improve efficiency and effectiveness by reducing the number of handwritten tickets and paperwork, eliminating the need to enter information written on a citation into a separate electronic database, and improving timeliness by making data available electronically. The e-citation system is expected to be fully implemented by summer 2010. <br /> <br /> For more information contact the Mankato Department of Public Safety administrative commander at 507-387-8795.<br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=14329">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 05 Oct 2009 15:45:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=14269The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has awarded the City of Mankato and Blue Earth County Economic Development Authorities more than $10 million in American Recovery and Re-Investment Act (ARRA) stimulus grant funding for public housing rehabilitation and construction.&quot;The $10 million the Mankato area will receive from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act will do more than just make Orness Plaza energy efficient. The funding will create a more comfortable environment for a generation of low-income senior citizens in Mankato, while putting many in our construction sector back to work during this difficult economic time,&rdquo; said Congressman Tim Walz. &ldquo;I want to congratulate and thank the staff at the City of Mankato and Blue Earth County who pursued these funds that will now translate to jobs and safe, comfortable living environments for citizens.&rdquo; <br /> <br /> The Mankato EDA will receive approximately $9.15 million for the rehabilitation of Orness Plaza, an affordable rental housing community. A remodel is planned for the 101 apartment units and common areas in the building. Windows, siding, plumbing, and heating and cooling systems will be replaced to maximize energy efficiency. <br /> <br /> According to Mankato City Manager Patrick Hentges, the benefits this grant funding provides to the community will be multifaceted. &quot;This project will help keep the private construction economy and trades working and stimulating the local economy. Based on federal estimates, the grant is expected to create or retain 270 jobs in the construction trades,&quot; said Hentges. &quot;The grant will also ensure that Orness Plaza will be a viable, attractive, and affordable housing option in the community for years to come.&quot; <br /> <br /> The Blue Earth County EDA will receive approximately $1.08 million for the construction of 18 affordable housing townhouses in Eagle Lake. Nine townhouses will be public housing and rent will be based on 30 percent of the adjusted household income. Rent for the remaining townhouses will be based on federal guidelines for the low-income housing tax credit program. <br /> <br /> &quot;The award of HUD grant funding for projects in two Blue Earth County cities is extremely exciting and much needed. Obtaining funds for Orness Plaza and the Eagle Lake townhouses will help ensure that our area will be able to maintain public housing options for residents especially in these challenging economic times as more people need them. Receiving funds of this magnitude is very unique and reflects on the commitment and collaboration of staff to research and aggressively seek alternative funding,&quot; said Blue Earth County Administrator Dennis McCoy. <br /> <br /> Additionally, Mankato's City Manager congratulated the Department of Community Development, which coordinated the grant application, particularly Director Paul Vogel and Patti Ziegler, housing coordinator for the City of Mankato and Blue Earth County. Vogel stated that Patti Ziegler has been pursuing funding options for the rehabilitation of Orness Plaza for the past five years and her persistence and innovation were keys to the success in obtaining the grant. The cooperative effort between the City of Mankato, Blue Earth County, the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, the Greater Minnesota Housing Fund, and the Southwest Minnesota Housing Partnership is another example of agencies pooling resources to efficiently and effectively address community needs. <br /> <br /><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=14269">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsThu, 24 Sep 2009 14:55:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=14252Mankato Department of Public Safety has learned that some Mankato bars/restaurants are permitting games or contests that involve drinking alcohol, such as “beer pong” tournaments.&quot;It violates a Mankato ordinance and it promotes &ldquo;binge&rdquo; or excessive drinking,&quot; said Public Safety Administrative Commander Sandi Schnorenberg. Using alcohol as a reward or giving away alcohol as a prize is in violation of the ordinance. <br /> <br /> The city of Mankato is asking for the cooperation of liquor licenses holders and citizens in following best practices for the greater good of our community. <br /> <br /> For more information contact the Mankato Department of Public Safety-police at 507-387-8780. <br /> <br /><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=14252">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsFri, 18 Sep 2009 10:50:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14243Vote for your favorite photos as part of the People's Choice Award.&nbsp; More than 300 photos, featuring Mankato places and spaces, were submitted for the annual photo contest.<br /> <br /> View the photos and <a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/PhotoContest/Page.aspx">vote on-line</a> before 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 1. Winning photos may be used on Mankato's website and in city communication projects throughout the year. <br /> <br /> &quot;People's Choice&quot; was a suggestion from a Mankato citizen as an added value to Mankato's calendar photo contest. <br /> <br /> For more information contact Mankato's public information office at 507-387-8692. <br /> <br /><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14243">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsThu, 17 Sep 2009 10:59:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14208Mark your calendar and plan to attend the <a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/RiverfrontParkGrandOpeningInvitation.pdf"><st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Riverfront</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Park</st1:placetype></st1:place> grand opening </a>celebration on Wednesday, September 16, beginning with a 3 p.m. program, followed by a celebration until 6 p.m.. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp;</span>The rain or shine event will include music by the Mankato Area Public Schools&rsquo; West High School pep band and ensembles from the Mankato Symphony Orchestra and Mankato Area Community Band.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </span>Bring your lawn chair to place on The Grand Lawn to enjoy the music performances on the new amphitheater stage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </span>An extra bonus is that The Grand Lawn overlooks the <st1:place w:st="on">Minnesota River</st1:place>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes">&nbsp; </span><p>Vendors and exhibitors at the three-hour celebration include: </p> <ul> <li>Coffee Hag </li> <li>Twin Rivers Center for the Arts </li> <li>Toppers&nbsp; </li> <li>Blue Earth County Historical Society </li> <li>Lutheran Social Services </li> <li>Greater Mankato Diversity Council </li> <li>Greater Mankato Convention and Visitors Bureau </li> <li>3 Sisters Journey </li> <li>Sweet Peas&nbsp; </li> <li>Merely Players </li> <li>WOW Zone </li> <li>HickoryTech </li> <li>Pub 500 </li> <li>Radio Mankato </li> <li>City Center partnership and Greater Mankato Growth </li> <li>Children&rsquo;s Museum of Southern Minnesota </li> <li>Buffalo Wild Wings </li> <li>Kato Glass </li> <li>Mary Lue's Yarn &amp; Ewe </li> <li>Lillians </li> <li>the Ink Spot</li> <li>YMCA<br /> </li> </ul> <p>Mankato&rsquo;s newest park fits an important theme of the City Center Renaissance plan&mdash;reconnections. Besides providing a connection to the river, the park is a connecting point for the Sakatah and Red Jacket trail systems. These systems offer more than 60 miles of continuous off-road trails that run from Faribault to Rapidan. Citizens have long expressed an interest in utilizing the river for recreation so boating, canoeing, kayaking and fishing along the Minnesota River will now be more accessible. <br /> <br /> <br /> </p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14208">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsThu, 03 Sep 2009 15:07:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14179Larry and Carol Heemeyer are recipients of a Quality of Life package. The Heemeyer&rsquo;s won the package as part of Mankato&rsquo;s Yard of the Week contest. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s such a blessing to spend time outdoors listening to the birds and enjoying the fragrance of the flowers and freshly mowed grass,&rdquo; said Carol Heemeyer. &ldquo;We enjoy keeping our yard well-maintained and were honored to be recognized as Yard of the Week winners.&rdquo; <br /> <br /> From June through August, Mankato yards were nominated by citizens based on maintenance and general appearance. Yard of the Week winners were randomly selected and were eligible for the Quality of Life package drawing.<br />The purpose of the Quality of Life package is to bring attention to the services provided by the City of Mankato and how they contribute to Mankato&rsquo;s quality of life. <br /> <br /> Mankato&rsquo;s Quality of Life package: <br /> &bull; One month water, wastewater and refuse service (up to a $50 value) <br /> &bull; Civic center gift certificate (up to a $50 value) <br /> &bull; Smoke detector <br /> &bull; Recycle bin <br /> &bull; Building permit (up to a $50 value) <br /> &bull; 10-punch Tourtellotte Pool swimming pass <br /> &bull; Home safety check by a police officer <br /> &bull; Smoke detector check by a firefighter <br /> &bull; Five city bus tokens <br /> &bull; Six foot boulevard tree (planted as per city forester) <br /> &bull; Plat map from Engineering of Mankato resident&rsquo;s primary property <br /> <br /> For more information about Yard of the Week <a href="mailto:cmpia@city.mankato.mn.us?subject=Yard%20of%20the%20Week">contact</a> the Public Information office at 507-387-8692.<br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14179">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 31 Aug 2009 16:21:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/yourTake.aspx?ytID=14175The national and state economic climate is having a profound impact on city government.&nbsp; The <a href="http://www.ci.mankato.mn.us/upload/images/CityManager/2010_Preliminary_Budget.pdf">2010 preliminary budget</a> recognizes these economic pressures by taking responsible steps to reduce spending and adjust revenue streams so we do not place undue hardship on local taxpayers.&nbsp; The budget offers organizational changes to build future service capacity while meting and exceeding demands for services as the local economy gradually recovers in the future.&nbsp; <a href="http://www.ci.mankato.mn.us/upload/images/CityManager/2010-Preliminary-Budget-Overview.ppt">Learn more</a>.&nbsp; <a href="http://www.ci.mankato.mn.us/upload/images/CityManager/2010-General-Fund-Analysis-Worksheet.xls">See comparables</a>.&nbsp; An online survey is coming soon.&nbsp; What is &quot;your take&quot; about Mankato's preliminary 2010 budget?<br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/yourTake.aspx?ytID=14175">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsWed, 26 Aug 2009 17:19:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14148BR and Beth-Ann O'Halloran, 418 Mound Avenue, have been named this week's Yard of the Week winners. <br /> <br /> Yard of the Week is a way for the city of Mankato to acknowledge and show appreciation for standout yards. Well maintained yards help keep the city looking its best. <br /> <br /> Citizens are nominated based on general appearance. One yard is randomly selected from the nominations, and the winner is eligible to have the Yard of the Week sign displayed for the week, and is also eligible for the Quality of Life package drawing. The purpose of Mankato's Quality of Life package is to bring attention to the services the city provides and how they contribute to quality of life. <br /> <br /> For more information contact the city of Mankato at 507-387-8692.<br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14148">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 24 Aug 2009 09:47:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14020At 5 a.m. on Saturday, August 15, Broad and 4th streets was converted from one-way to two-way traffic.&nbsp; This conversion is part of a series of traffic changes within the City Center and Lincoln Park to provide traffic calming within neighborhoods to enhance livability.&nbsp;<br /> <br /> To complement the goals of this initiative and increase the desired effect,&nbsp;a through-route on 2nd Street at the Veterans Memorial Bridge&nbsp; and several traffic control modifications happen with the conversion to two-way traffic:<p><strong>Broad Street modifications:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Stop control on Liberty and Broad streets changed from a two-way to a four-way stop on Liberty Street. </li> <li>Signal revisions at Cherry, Warren, Mulberry and Main streets' intersections with Broad Street to accommodate two-traffic. </li> <li>Stop control on Washington and Broad streets changed from existing two-way stop on Washington Street to a new stop on Broad Street, resulting in a free-flow traffic condition on Washington Street. </li> <li>Stop control on Elm and Broad streets changed from the existing two-way stop on Elm Street to a new stop on Broad Street, resulting in a free-flow traffic condition on Elm Street. </li> <li>Striping changes. </li> </ul> <p><strong>4th Street modifications:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Replace traffic signal system on Main and 4th streets with a two-way stop condition on 4th Street, resulting in a free-flow condition on Main Street. </li> <li>Replace traffic signal on Mulberry and 4th streets with a four-way stop. </li> <li>Alter stop condition on Washington and 4th streets from a two-way&nbsp;stop on Washington Street to a new stop condition on 4th Street, resulting in a free-flow traffic condition on Washington Street. </li> <li>Stop condition on Elm and 4th streets changed from two-way stop on Elm Street to a new stop condition on 4th Street, resulting in a free-flow traffic condition on Elm Street. </li> <li>Open new left turn lane from Madison Avenue to 4th Street. </li> <li>Striping changes. <br /> </li> </ul> <p>Safety and livability are central to city street considerations. There are important benefits to the street changes being made: </p> <ul> <li>The traffic signal at 2nd Street will correct transportation bottlenecks so there is less traffic on residential neighborhood streets. </li> <li>The creation of parallel streets will allow direct connections providing better access to the bridge and downtown. </li> <li>Traffic calming&mdash;reducing speeds and discouraging through traffic on residential streets. </li> <li>Street surface improvements are part of the city&rsquo;s regular street maintenance program because they protect the public&rsquo;s investment. </li> </ul> <p>All alterations and improvements are done with the goal to be thoughtful about aesthetics because it contributes to livability. Street and aesthetic improvements are appreciated by businesses and neighboring residents. Our goal is to provide the best look at the greatest economy, including the least amount of maintenance. <br /> <br /> For questions about the conversion contact Mankato's <a href="mailto:lbode@city.mankato.mn.us?subject=Traffic%20conversion%20from%20one-way%20to%20two-way">engineering staff</a> at 507-387-8637.<br /> <br /> </p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=14020">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsFri, 21 Aug 2009 10:45:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=14088During the month of July, over 250 motorists were cited by area law enforcement for speeding. "Every time you get behind the wheel put safety first — traveling at the posted speed limit reduces the risk for a crash,” said Police Officer Adam Gray of the Mankato Department of Public Safety.Speeding is the most commonly reported factor in fatal crashes. Each year in Minnesota, speed contributes to about 150 traffic deaths and 7,000 injuries. The area law enforcement coalition included the Minnesota State Patrol, Blue Earth and Nicollet County Sheriff's offices, the Mankato Department of Public Safety, and the St. Peter Police Department. <br /> <br /> This area law enforcement coalition will now be cracking down on impaired drivers as part of a statewide DWI enforcement effort Friday, August 21 through Monday, September 7. The effort is coordinated by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS). Around 400 Minnesota law enforcement agencies will participate in the effort aimed toward taking impaired drivers off the road and encouraging motorists to make safe decisions. Troopers, deputies and police officers will combine DWI patrols with seat belt enforcement. As of June 9, Minnesota has a primary seat belt law that requires drivers and passengers in all seating positions &mdash; including the back seat &mdash; to be buckled up or in the correct child restraint. Law enforcement can stop motorists solely for seat belt violations, including unbelted passengers. <br /> <br /> DPS reports that enhanced DWI enforcement campaigns factored in the state tallying a record-low number of alcohol-related deaths in 2008. Last year, 163 motorists were killed in alcohol-related crashes. Despite the drop in deaths, DPS reports alcohol-related crashes still accounted for more than one-third of all deaths. In the last three years, 2006&ndash;2008, 519 motorists were killed and another 1,159 motorists were seriously injured in alcohol-related crashes statewide. Law enforcement will be on the look out for drivers who display common impaired driving characteristics &mdash; swerving, driving erratically, or driving too slow for traffic. Officer Gray reminds all motorists to plan ahead for a safe ride home before consuming alcoholic beverages. Young people continue to be the primary violators when it comes to impaired driving offenses <br /> <br /> The enforcement and education effort is funded by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and is a component of the state&rsquo;s Toward Zero Deaths (TZD) traffic safety program. TZD is an interdisciplinary approach to address traffic issues regionally through enforcement, education, engineering and emergency trauma care. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=14088">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 17 Aug 2009 15:40:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13997Bill and Lou Homer, 113 Chaucer Court, have been named this week's Yard of the Week winners. <br /> <br /> Yard of the Week is a way for the city of Mankato to acknowledge and show appreciation for standout yards. Well maintained yards help keep the city looking its best.<br />Citizens are nominated based on general appearance. One yard is randomly selected from the nominations, and the winner is eligible to have the Yard of the Week sign displayed for the week, and is also eligible for the Quality of Life package drawing. The purpose of Mankato's Quality of Life package is to bring attention to the services the city provides and how they contribute to quality of life. <br /> <br /> To make a Yard of the Week nomination <a href="mailto:cmpia@city.mankato.mn.us?subject=Yard%20of%20the%20Week%20nomination">contact</a> the city of Mankato at 507-387-8692. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13997">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 27 Jul 2009 07:55:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/yourTake.aspx?ytID=13986The City of Mankato is exploring options to further connect citizens to their city government through volunteer opportunities.&nbsp; Volunteers would provide an effective and efficient means of supporting and enhancing city core services.&nbsp; As the city faces unprecedented budget challenges within the coming years, volunteers will be essential to sustain a service level that our community and region is proud of.<p>The city currently utilizes volunteers to enhance core services in a variety of areas including public safety, i.e. police reserves, volunteer fire, etc., and public works, i.e. maintenance of planting areas. The city intends to maximize the value of current volunteers while creating new opportunities. Give us &quot;your take&quot; about what volunteer opportunities the city of Mankato should offer?</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/yourTake.aspx?ytID=13986">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsWed, 22 Jul 2009 16:47:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13973Rick and Kirsten Jeddeloh, 116 Sawgrass Court, have been named this week's Yard of the Week winners.<br /> <br /> Yard of the Week is a way for the city of Mankato to acknowledge and show appreciation for standout yards. Well maintained yards help keep the city looking its best.&nbsp;<br />Citizens are nominated based on general appearance. One yard is randomly selected from the nominations, and the winner is eligible to have the Yard of the Week sign displayed for the week, and is also eligible for the Quality of Life package drawing.&nbsp; The purpose of Mankato's Quality of Life package is to bring attention to the services the city provides and how they contribute to quality of life. <br /> <br /> To make a Yard of the Week nomination <a target="_blank" href="mailto:cmpia@city.mankato.mn.us?subject=Yard%20of%20the%20Week%20nomination">contact</a> the city of Mankato at 507-387-8692. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13973">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 20 Jul 2009 08:46:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13967A groundbreaking ceremony was held for the city of Mankato community athletic fields, 1101 Heron Drive, located adjacent to the future site of Mankato Area Public Schools&rsquo; Rosa Parks Elementary School.The 20-acre site will be transformed into a six-field baseball complex. Construction of three baseball fields is expected to begin this fall and ready to use by July 2010. Phase two includes building three additional fields, a concession stand and lighting for one baseball field. The final phase of the project includes the addition of a neighborhood park with a playground, picnic shelters, a basketball court and soccer fields.<br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13967">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsFri, 17 Jul 2009 13:24:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=13964Minnesota has an extensive statewide network of foreclosure prevention counseling agencies that provide services to all homeowners in danger of losing their homes due to foreclosure.These services are available at no cost through a network of local non-profit organizations and government agencies. <br /> <br /> City of Mankato <a href="http://ci.mankato.mn.us/Housing/ServiceArea.aspx">housing staff</a> strives to determine the housing needs of the community and then works with local, state and federal resources to meet those needs. Referrals are made to <a target="_blank" href="http://www.lssmn.org/debt/about.htm">LSS Financial Counseling Service</a>. LSS housing counselors help homeowners understand the foreclosure process and their consumer rights, as well as discuss specific options for their individual situation. &quot;Whether a homeowner is unable to make a mortgage payment or facing foreclosure, our housing counselors can offer guidance,&quot; said Julie Zachariason, LSS Financial Counseling Service counselor supervisor. <br /> <br /> For housing or foreclosure prevention counseling call 1-888-577-2227. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=13964">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsTue, 14 Jul 2009 09:30:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13961Diana Gabriel, 1028 North Sixth Street, has been named this week's Yard of the Week winner. <br /> <br /> Yard of the Week is a way for the city of Mankato to acknowledge and show appreciation for standout yards. Well maintained yards help keep the city looking its best.<br /> Citizens are nominated based on general appearance. One yard is randomly selected from the nominations, and the winner is eligible to have the Yard of the Week sign displayed for the week, and is also eligible for the Quality of Life package drawing. <br /> <br /> The purpose of Mankato's Quality of Life package is to bring attention to the services the city provides and how they contribute to quality of life. <br /> <br /> To make a Yard of the Week nomination <a href="mailto:cmpia@city.mankato.mn.us?subject=Yard%20of%20the%20Week%20nomination">contact</a> the city of Mankato at 507-387-8692.<br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13961">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 13 Jul 2009 08:56:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=13947The Technology Plus building, 1961 Premier Drive, has been renamed the Greater Mankato Business Development Center and new signage has been placed on the building to reflect the change.<div align="right"> <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="200" align="right" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td><a href="<%=upload_url%>/GreaterMankatoBusinessDevelopmentCenter.pdf"><img height="138" alt="" width="200" border="0" src="<%=upload_url%>/GreaterMankatoBusinessDevelopmentCenter_Small.jpg" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p align="left"><font size="1">Greater Mankato Business Development Center (click on photo for larger image)</font></p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> &quot;The new name creates a sense of identity for the facility as a place to develop and expand business,&quot; said Mankato City Manager Patrick Hentges. <br /> <br /> Current building tenants include: financial, agricultural and technology companies; consulting firms; education, regional, economic and community development organizations; non-profit small business development organizations; and Business Accelerator clients. The Business Accelerator program is a joint venture of the City of Mankato and Greater Mankato Growth, which is designed to assist business start-ups and entrepreneurs at all phases of business development. <br /> <br /> The Greater Mankato Business Development Center supports the mission of the Greater Mankato Business Accelerator program and promotes business development and expansion in the Greater Mankato region. <br /> <br /> For more information about space leasing options <a target="_blank" href="mailto:cdpa1@city.mankato.mn.us">contact</a> Mankato's Community Development staff at 507-387-8687.<br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=13947">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsTue, 07 Jul 2009 15:05:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/yourTake.aspx?ytID=13910The <a href="http://www.emeraldashborer.info/">Emerald Ash Borer</a>, discovered in Michigan in 2002, spread quickly to Ohio and Indiana and discovered this spring in central Minnesota. It is a species of metallic wood boring beetle that attacks ash, usually killing trees within two to four years by feeding on the inner bark of ash trees, disrupting the tree&rsquo;s ability to transport water and nutrients. Although stressed trees are more vulnerable to attack, the Emerald Ash Borer is an aggressive wood borer that attacks all species of ash. <br /><br /> Approximately 26 percent of Mankato&rsquo;s boulevard trees are ash. There are additional ash trees within city parks. A conscientious effort is put into tree diversity when planting each year within city spaces to avoid vulnerability to any one tree disease. <br /> <strong><br /> Preventive measures in Mankato</strong> <br /> The city is looking at requiring firewood to be acquired and used on-site when visiting Land of Memories campground in Mankato because firewood is a common way for the tree disease to spread. City staff is removing ash trees that are not completely healthy. In some locations quarantines are being placed on nursery trees being transported to avoid starting new infestations. <br /> Learn more by calling the Minnesota Department of Agriculture Arrest-the-Pest Hotline at 1-888-545-6684. <br /> <br /> What is &ldquo;your take&rdquo; on how to prevent infestation of ash tree disease in Mankato? <br /><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/yourTake.aspx?ytID=13910">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 06 Jul 2009 13:35:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13927<p>This week's Yard of the Week winner is Susan Dunn, 124 Mayfair Drive, Mankato.<br /> <br /> Yard of the Week is a way for the city of Mankato to acknowledge and show appreciation for standout yards.&nbsp; Well maintained yards help keep the city looking its best.</p>Citizens are nominated based on general appearance. One yard is randomly selected from the nominations, the winner is eligible to have the Yard of the Week sign displayed for the week and is also eligible for the Quality of Life package drawing. <br /> <br /> The purpose of Mankato's Quality of Life package is to bring attention to the services the city provides and how they contribute to quality of life. <br /> <br /> To make a Yard of the Week nomination <a href="mailto:cmpia@city.mankato.mn.us?subject=Yard%20of%20the%20Week%20nomination">contact </a>the city of Mankato at 507-387-8692.<br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13927">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsThu, 02 Jul 2009 19:32:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13906George and Theresa Kruse,&nbsp;216 Terrace Drive, have been named this week's Yard of the Week winners. <br /> <br /> Each week, Mankato citizens are nominated based on well-maintained yards and general appearance. The Kruse's are now eligible for the Quality of Life package drawing in September. This package brings attention to services the city provides and how they contribute to Mankato's quality of life. <br /> <br /> To <a target="_blank" href="mailto:cmpia@city.mankato.mn.us?subject=Yard%20of%20the%20Week%20nomination">nominate</a> a Yard of the Week contact the City of Mankato Public Information office at 507-387-8692. <br /> <br /> <br /><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13906">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsThu, 02 Jul 2009 09:46:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13901The governor&rsquo;s cut to Local Government Aid (LGA) is deep and will necessitate that Mankato&rsquo;s services be reduced by over $2 million. &ldquo;Every effort is being made to preserve core city service,&rdquo; said Patrick Hentges, City Manager. Police, fire, and streets are prime examples of city core services. However, the city has services such as parks, airport, transit and civic center that contribute to the area&rsquo;s quality of life, provide amenities people have come to enjoy and support the economic vitality of the city and region. Non-tax supported services like water, sewer, refuse and storm water will also face challenges. Due to the economic climate it may be difficult to raise utility rates and that presents major challenges with rising energy costs and unfunded state mandates. <br /> <br /> Over the past six years, Minnesota cities have lost $750 million in state aid, and as a result property taxes have increased more than 65 percent statewide. Fortunately, the Mankato City Council has kept the property growth within the rate of the tax base. The recent cuts of $1.5 million in 2008 and 2009, added to the 2003-2004 cuts of $2.4 million have already resulted in the use of nearly $2 million in cash reserves, a reduction in workforce and city service levels. In 2010, the city expects to lose due to unallotment another $1.4 million in LGA.<strong><br /> 2010 outlook</strong> <br /> As the city prepares its 2010 budget we expect that spending will have to be reduced by more than $2 million. Those cuts will result in the city of Mankato reducing its workforce by 15-20 positions citywide. This will have an effect on the quality and responsiveness of core services including slower responses to non-emergency police and fire calls, less mowing in parks, less support to outside agencies (like rural rescue and ambulance support), and less frequency of snow and ice removal. Spending will be significantly reduced in the secondary livability areas. Cuts under consideration include school police liaisons, crossing guards, library, support to non-profits, arts and social services, seniors and nature center programming. Also, we can expect reduction in citizen education programs, fire-crime prevention programs, neighborhood crime prevention, pool hours and efforts to keeping the community aesthetically-maintained. <br /> <br /> In addition to asking our public employees to do more with less funding, Hentges expects exceedingly difficult budget challenges in 2011. If current trends and attitudes prevail regarding LGA, he fully expects layoffs will be required and also a combination of employee wage and benefit cuts&nbsp;and furloughs will be necessary. However, Hentges stated that he will recommend to the City Council that capital improvement spending be continued if for no other reason, than to help keep the private construction economy and trades working and spending money in the local economy. <br /> <br /> &ldquo;This latest attack on local government aid by the governor and small government advocates like The Freedom Foundation of Minnesota, is simply misguided,&rdquo; said Mayor John Brady. Based on this attitude, the LGA program will likely disappear in the future simply widening the gap of disparity among Minnesota cities. The Minnesota cities that have less tax resources (small cities, regional centers and urban core cities) receive LGA to assure parity in taxes and service. Tax wealthy cities (thriving metropolitan suburbs) typically do not receive LGA but have benefited over the years from other tax relief programs such as school aid, transit aid, and state supported metropolitan programs that have enabled them to keep taxes reasonable and spend generously on livability program that keep their communities vital. <br /> <br /> The City Manager continued by stating that the governor&rsquo;s apparent unraveling of the LGA program is doing irreversible damage to tax and service disparity among Minnesota cities. The suggestion to excessively use cash reserves and make dramatic service cuts will only serve to harm the greater Minnesota economy in the long term. Property tax relief programs like LGA over the past six years have taken a disproportionate amount of state cuts. City government employment decreased in the state by six percent, while the state&rsquo;s workforce ballooned by 10 percent. Rest assured, the city of Mankato remains committed to a performance-based budget that protects residents from steep property tax increases and painful cuts to services. <a href="mailto:cmpia@city.mankato.mn.us?subject=Local%20Government%20Aid">Citizen input</a> is important and helpful when making city decisions. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13901">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsThu, 25 Jun 2009 08:14:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13898<div align="right"> <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="200" align="right" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Carol_and_Larry_Heemeyer_YardoftheWeekWinner_week2.pdf"><img height="127" width="200" border="0" alt="" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Carol_and_Larry_Heemeyer_YardoftheWeekWinner_week2Small.jpg" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p align="left"><font size="1">Yard of the Week winner Carol Heemeyer</font></p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> Carol and Larry&nbsp;Heemeyer, 117 Spyglass Drive, have been named this week's Yard of the Week winners. <br /> <br /> Each week, Mankato citizens are nominated based on well-maintained yards and general appearance. The Heemeyer's&nbsp;are now eligible for the Quality of Life package drawing in September. This package brings attention to the services the city provides and how they contribute to Mankato's quality of life. <br /> <br /> To <a href="mailto:cmpia@city.mankato.mn.us?subject=Yard%20of%20the%20Week%20nomination">nominate</a> a Yard of the Week contact the City of Mankato Public Information office at 387-8692. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13898">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 22 Jun 2009 10:04:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13857<div align="right"> <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="200" align="right" summary="" border="1"> <tbody> <tr> <td><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/MayorJohnBrady_YardoftheWeekWinner_AnneDoyle_week1.pdf"><img height="120" hspace="5" width="200" vspace="5" border="0" alt="" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/MayorJohnBrady_YardoftheWeekWinner_AnneDoyle_week1-Resized.jpg" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p align="left"><font size="1">Mayor John Brady and Yard of the Week winner Anne Doyle.</font></p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> Anne Doyle, 104 Quail Path, has been named this week's Yard of the Week winner. <br /> <br /> Each week, Mankato citizens are nominated based on well-maintained yards and general appearance. Doyle&nbsp;is now eligible for the Quality of Life package drawing in September. This package brings attention to the services the city provides and how they contribute to Mankato's quality of life. <br /> <br /> To <a href="mailto:cmpia@city.mankato.mn.us?subject=Yard%20of%20the%20Week%20nomination">nominate</a> a Yard of the Week contact the City of Mankato Public Information office at 387-8692. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13857">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 15 Jun 2009 09:31:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13823<div align="right"> <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="120" align="right" summary="" border="1"> <tbody> <tr> <td><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/LandonBode_WordWalk.pdf"><img height="181" alt="" width="120" border="0" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/LandonBode_WordWalk.jpg" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/WordWalkReveal2.pdf"><img height="86" alt="" width="120" border="0" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/WordWalkReveal2.jpg" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/SidewalkPoetry_Choice.pdf"><img height="69" width="120" border="0" alt="" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/SidewalkPoetry_Choice.jpg" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td> <div style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" align="left"><span style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%"><font size="1">WordWalk was inspired by a similar project in St. Paul entitled &ldquo;Everyday Poems for City Sidewalk.&rdquo;</font></span></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <p>Poems have been stamped into the sidewalk along Riverfront Drive, between Plum and Rock streets, in Mankato&rsquo;s City Center. &ldquo;This public art project provides an enjoyable moment of outdoor reading and enhances our city sidewalks,&rdquo; said Shannon Robinson, executive director of Twin River Center for the Arts. <br /> <br /> Dozens of area residents entered short poems in the sidewalk poetry contest, WordWalk.&nbsp; Doris Stengel, past-president of the National Federation of State Poetry Societies judged the competition and named the top seven winners: <br /> <br /> -Ikars Sarma, Mankato; &ldquo;Minnesota&rdquo; <br /> -Marlys Neufeld, Hanska; &ldquo;Choices&rdquo; and &ldquo;Directions&rdquo; <br /> -Connie Miller, Mankato; &ldquo;Wedding&rdquo; <br /> -Susan Stevens Chambers, Good Thunder; &ldquo;Aging Benignly&rdquo; <br /> -Yvonne Cariveau, Mankato; &ldquo;Tuna&rdquo; <br /> -Tim J. Brennan, Austin; &ldquo;Still Life #30&rdquo; <br /> -Shirley Ensrud, Blue Earth; &ldquo;As We Grow Older&rdquo;</p><p>Eight poems also received honorable mention: <br /> <br /> -Heather Elliot, Mankato; &ldquo;March Rain&rdquo; and &ldquo;To Myself&rdquo; <br /> -Rick Lybeck, Mankato; &ldquo;Grackle&rdquo; <br /> -Patti Ruskey, Mankato; &ldquo;Bluestem Nights&rdquo; <br /> -Damon Weinandt, Mankato; &ldquo;The Same Sidewalk&rdquo; <br /> -Jill Kalz, New Ulm; &ldquo;That Old Want&rdquo; <br /> -Susan Steven Chambers, Good Thunder; &ldquo;I Wedge in at Zero Degrees&rdquo; <br /> -Shirley Ensrud, Blue Earth; &ldquo;Sky Fruit&rdquo; <br /> <br /> WordWalk is a public art project made possible by Twin Rivers Center for the Arts, City Center Partnership, Southern Minnesota Poets Society and the City of Mankato. <br /> <br /> For more information contact Twin Rivers Center for the Arts at 507-387-1008. <br /> </p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13823">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsTue, 09 Jun 2009 14:14:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/yourTake.aspx?ytID=13808<p>The City of Mankato and Blue Earth County&nbsp;qualify for $18,873 (this is in addition to the recent grant application of $77,643 to implement 311)&nbsp;&nbsp;in federal funding to enhance law enforcement programs.&nbsp; In addition to 311 implementation, the additional <a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/NewByrneGrant.pdf">grant </a>dollars would be used to purchase additional in-squad video cameras for law enforcement vehicles used in the county.<br /> <br /> </p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/yourTake.aspx?ytID=13808">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsWed, 03 Jun 2009 11:56:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13798<div align="right"> <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="200" align="right" summary="" border="1"> <tbody> <tr> <td><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Pergola.pdf"><img height="239" alt="" hspace="5" width="200" vspace="5" border="0" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/PergolaSMALL.jpg" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p align="left"><font size="1">Join us for the pergola ribbon cutting and celebration on Saturday, June 6 in Sibley Park from 12:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.</font> </p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> At last year&rsquo;s Sibley Park Rededication, CHS Oilseed Processing plant, Mankato made an announcement that they would award the city with a $100,000 donation to construct a pergola and make rock garden enhancements. Everyone is welcome to attend the pergola ribbon cutting event, scheduled for 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 6. Harpist music by Amy Kortuem will begin at 12:30 p.m. Located in the City Center, the pergola site in Sibley Park overlooks the large rock garden and provides a view of the river.<br /> <br />The CHS pergola, a steel structure, will be reminiscent of a park structure from the 1930s, and will likely be a popular destination for weddings, picnics and other community events. CHS rock garden improvements will include upgrading walking paths, covering them with an arbor and installing an irrigation system. Already underway is a brick-laying project on the walking path within the rock garden&mdash;original street bricks saved from the reconstruction of Jackson Street in the 1980s. <br /> <br /> The refreshments, horse-drawn carriage rides, music and are being sponsored by CHS. <br /> <br /> Sibley Park was established in 1887. In the past, the park was home to a horse racing track, a bicycle racing track, zoo, a museum and clay tennis courts. Sibley Park currently has active recreation opportunities on the north side with softball, tennis, fishing and sliding hill. Passive recreation is provided on the south side of the park with extensive landscape gardens, a story book farm site, open space and picnic areas. <br /> <br /> For more information <a href="mailto:cmpi@city.mankato.mn.us">contact</a> the City of Mankato public information office at 507-387-8516.<br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13798">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsFri, 29 May 2009 08:48:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=13796The City of Mankato's Heritage Preservation Commission was recently granted <a href="http://www.mnhs.org/shpo/local/clg.htm">Certified Local Government</a> status by the State Historic Preservation Office, which is a critical first step in undertaking a comprehensive historic preservation effort throughout the community.<p>The commission, comprised of appointed members, makes recommendations to the Mankato City Council about promoting and preserving Mankato's historic neighborhoods, including designation of significant buildings and places that are locally significant to our heritage. <br /> <br /> Learn more about the <a href="<%=site_url%>CityCode/cityCode.aspx?sectionNum=2.46">Heritage Preservation Commission</a> (HPC) this weekend during the Hubbard House 20-year tribute, 606 South Broad Street, Mankato. HPC members will be on-hand to talk about current and upcoming efforts. </p> <ul> <li>Hubbard House 20-year tribute <br /> 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 30 <br /> Noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday, May 31 <br /> The Hubbard House is owned by the City of Mankato and operated by the Blue Earth County Historical Society. </li> </ul> <p>For more information about Mankato's Heritage Preservation Commission contact Community Development staff at 507-387-8571. <br /> <br /> </p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=13796">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsThu, 28 May 2009 16:00:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13785With critical funding for public safety, parks and city services on the line, mayors and legislators gathered today to call on the governor to minimize cuts to Local Government Aid (LGA). <br /> <br /> Mankato Mayor John Brady urged dialogue between democrats, republicans and the governor&rsquo;s representatives because it&rsquo;s in the best interest of the people in the state. &ldquo;An unallotment was not meant to be a trump card for failing to pass a balanced budget,&rdquo; said Mayor Brady. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s my understanding an unallotment is to be used only if there is an unexpected revenue shortfall and not used as a ploy in budget negotiations between the legislature and the governor.&rdquo;<p>&quot;There is bipartisan agreement that LGA successfully keeps property taxes down and cities thriving--but the program has to be funded in order to do that,&quot; said former Republican lawmaker Dan Dorman (R -- Albert Lea).&nbsp; &quot;For the sake of fair property taxes, police, fire protection, and libraries, the governor must reduce his cuts to LGA.&quot;<br /> <br /> Reaching no final deal with the legislature, the governor has stated that he will balance the state's budget through a process known as unallotment.&nbsp; Through this process, the governor can reduce funding for any state program by whatever amount he deems appropriate starting July 1.&nbsp; In his original plan, the governor proposed cutting LGA by $246 million over the next two years.<br /> <br /> &quot;History tells us what happens when LGA is cut:&nbsp; property&nbsp;taxes go up and services go down,&quot; Dorman said.&nbsp; &quot;LGA is what keeps communities affordable and strong.&quot;<br /> <br /> Cities are no stranger to unallotment. In December, LGA took a $54 million hit to help the state fill its budget gap from lower than projected revenues. Because this cut occurred so late in the 2008 budget year, most cities trimmed the December unallotment from their 2009 budgets, leaving few areas to absorb the governor&rsquo;s next round of cuts. <br /> <br /> Taking this earlier unallotment into account, city officials are advocating for final LGA cuts closer to the House&rsquo;s proposal, which would reduce the program by $85 million over the next two years, but via a method that would spread these reductions more fairly amongst cities. The legislature&rsquo;s final tax bill included no cuts to LGA. From Mankato&rsquo;s perspective this is a manageable reduction in LGA; however, if the governor chooses to cut to the level he proposes early in the budget process, the city council could be faced with cuts nearing $3 million over the state biennium. For example, cuts at this level equal the total budget of parks, or all of the funding for fire services or nearly half of Mankato&rsquo;s police or street budget. <br /> <br /> St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman joined area mayors to put the LGA program&rsquo;s geographical reach into perspective. &ldquo;Whether you live in St. Peter, St. Paul or Sauk Centre, you have a right to police and fire protection at a fair price.&rdquo; <br /> <br /> &ldquo;Minnesota has always valued strong, affordable communities,&rdquo; Coleman continued, &ldquo;and the state needs to keep this commitment now more than ever.&rdquo; <br /> <br /> City officials and legislators urged residents to contact the governor immediately to voice their concern over LGA cuts. Residents can <a href="mailto:budgetideas@state.mn.us">submit these concerns to the governor&rsquo;s newly created budget ideas email</a> , or by calling the governor&rsquo;s office directly at 800-657-3717. <br /> </p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13785">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsThu, 21 May 2009 14:42:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=13776As the days get nicer, more people are doing outdoor activities including recreational fires.<p>The Mankato Department of Public Safety wants to ensure the safest and most positive experiences by providing useful tips. Recreational fires are allowed without a permit in the City of Mankato as long as the following provisions of the Minnesota State Fire Code and the Department of Natural Resources are met: </p> <ul> <li>The maximum height of material burned is two feet and the maximum diameter is three feet. </li> <li>Maintain a 25-foot clearance between the fire and any building, wood pile, dry brush, dry grass, or other flammables. </li> <li>Recreational fires must be constantly attended until the fire burns out completely or is extinguished. </li> <li>Keep a fire extinguisher (with a minimum 4A rating), hose, sand, bucket or shovel nearby. </li> <li>The only materials permitted in a recreational fire are wood from trees, small branches, brush or charcoal. Treated lumber materials, construction debris, garbage, plastic materials, leaves or waste materials are not allowed to be burned in recreational fires. </li> </ul> <p>For more information call Mankato's Fire Marshal at 507-387-8563. <br /> <br /> </p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=13776">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 18 May 2009 10:35:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=13757Public Safety Police Explorers recently competed in a state law enforcement competition and earned a record number of awards, which include: first place in traffic accident investigation, first place in gang investigation, first place in the 5k run, first place in fitness run, second place in interview and interrogation, fourth place in traffic accident investigation and fifth place in bomb scene search.More than 800 police explorers participated in the annual event. <br /> <br /> Police explorers, young adults age 15-20, aspire to become police officers or have a desire to learn about law enforcement. In addition to weekly meetings, students train in all areas of police work including traffic stops, crime prevention and hostage negotiations. <br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.mankatopoliceexplorers.com/">Mankato Police Explorer</a> advisers and trainers include Officers Allen Schmidt, Matt Gottschalk and Melissa Myers. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=13757">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsTue, 12 May 2009 14:05:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13753<div> <div align="right"> <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="150" align="right" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td><img height="224" alt="" width="150" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Firetruckfeatured news.jpg" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p align="left"><font size="1">Apply to serve our community through the volunteer firefighter opportunity.</font></p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> The Department of Public Safety is&nbsp;accepting applications for volunteer firefighters. Apply <a href="http://www.ci.mankato.mn.us/upload/contents/466/VolunteerForm.pdf">online</a>, Mankato's 300 Madison Avenue fire station, or telephone&nbsp;507-387-8563&nbsp;to request an application be sent U.S.&nbsp;Postal mail.<br /> <br /> Eligibility requirements include:<br /> --maintain a residence within 10 minutes response time to either fire station (300 Madison Avenue or 1230 Pohl Road)<br /> --possess a valid license to drive in the state of Minnesota or be able to obtain one within 60 days<br /> --satisfactorily complete a background investigation, physical examination, drug and alcohol testing<br /> --successfully complete a fitness test<br /> --the minimum age to apply is 18 years<br /> <br /> Applicants selected are required to successfully complete a recruit class. <br /> <br /> There are many benefits to being a volunteer firefighter--excellent training, an opportunity to serve our community and retirement benefits, to name a few.&nbsp;<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> </div><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13753">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsTue, 12 May 2009 08:35:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/yourTake.aspx?ytID=13756<p>Give us &quot;your take&quot; about what information and features you would like to be available on Mankato's web pages?</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/yourTake.aspx?ytID=13756">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsTue, 12 May 2009 08:33:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13722<div align="right"> <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="100" align="right" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/homestepsweb.pdf"><img height="234" alt="" width="100" border="0" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/homestepsweb-1.jpg" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p align="left"><font size="1">Click on image to learn more about First Home</font></p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> Interested in buying your first home? The City of Mankato is now taking applications for the <a target="_blank" href="<%=site_url%>First_Home/Page.aspx">First Home</a> homebuyer club program.&nbsp; This program targets citizens who reside in rent-assisted housing. The program provides first time homebuyers with tools needed to become mortgage ready and includes individual credit counseling, home maintenance skills and financial literacy taught in a small group setting. <br /> <br /> <strong>Upcoming session</strong> <br /> Tuesdays, June 2,9,16,23 and 30 <br /> 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. <br /> Intergovernmental Center, Blue Earth River Room (first floor)<br /> If available, graduates of the program may receive a below interest rate mortgage and down-payment assistance needed to purchase their home. <br /> <br /> Pre-application is required. To apply, call Mankato Housing staff at 507-387-8636. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13722">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsWed, 06 May 2009 13:34:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13716<div align="right"> <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="200" align="right" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td>&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/WWTPAward.pdf"><img height="139" alt="" width="200" border="0" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/WWTPAward.jpg" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p align="left"><font size="1">Pictured are Rebecca Ford, assistant commissioner of the MPCA and Mary Fralish, Mankato's deputy director of public works. (Click on photo for larger image.)</font>&nbsp;</p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> Mankato&rsquo;s Waste Water Treatment Plant (WWTP) was recently recognized by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) for outstanding operation, maintenance and management of its waste water treatment system. Annual awards are given to facilities throughout the state of Minnesota who meet all of the requirements during the reporting year:<ul> <li>Facility is overseen by a properly certified operator; </li> <li>Facility did not exceed the effluent limits contained in <br /> the permit; </li> <li>The facility&rsquo;s monthly and annual reports were timely <br /> and complete; and </li> <li>The facility did not experience any bypasses, <br /> enforcement actions, or inspections identifying <br /> compliance concerns. </li> </ul> <p>Mankato&rsquo;s WWTP is the only one in the state and one of the first in the nation to meet MPCA requirements, and also meet strict California title 22 reuse water standards for its water reclamation facility. The WWTP treats up to 6.2 million gallons per day for local natural gas fired power plant, Mankato Energy Center. It will also be supplying sprinkling water at Riverfront Park. Water reuse at Riverfront Park will save more than 3 million gallons of water each season. Although it&rsquo;s gratifying to receive awards, it expresses a vote of confidence from outside groups for Mankato &rsquo;s performance with their waste water treatment efforts. Additionally, MPCA&rsquo;s award demonstrates the commitment the city has to protecting Minnesota&rsquo;s waterways. <br /> </p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13716">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsFri, 01 May 2009 15:19:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13702<div align="right"> <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="150" align="right" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <p align="left"><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/waterflushingadApril2009.pdf"><img height="314" alt="" width="150" border="0" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/waterflushingadApril2009.jpg" /></a></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td><font size="1">Click on flyer for larger image.</font><br /> <a href="javascript:void(window.open('http://secure.mankato-mn.gov/Maps/WaterFlush.aspx','','resizable=yes,location=no,menubar=no,scrollbars=no,status=no,toolbar=no,fullscreen=no,dependent=no,width=875,height=700'))"><font size="1">Access interactive map.</font></a> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> The City of Mankato will flush water mains from Sunday, April 26 through Friday, May 1 (weather permitting).<br /> <br /> Flushing hours are scheduled from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. daily to ensure convenience for residents.&nbsp;<p>Water mains are routinely flushed to clean the distribution system. Avoid or limit water usage during flushing operations, because although the water is safe to drink, it may stain.&nbsp; It is best to allow at least an hour after daily flushing operations for the water to clear.<br /> <br /> For more information contact Public Works-Water at 507-387-8661 (24-hour service) or Tony Talamantez, Mankato's infrastructure superintendent, at 507-387-8663 or <a href="mailto:ttalamantez@city.mankato.mn.us">ttalamantez@city.mankato.mn.us</a>.</p> <p><a href="javascript:void(window.open('http://secure.mankato-mn.gov/Maps/WaterFlush.aspx','','resizable=yes,location=no,menubar=no,scrollbars=no,status=no,toolbar=no,fullscreen=no,dependent=no,width=875,height=700'))">Access interactive map.</a></p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13702">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsTue, 28 Apr 2009 19:28:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13693<p> <table style="FLOAT: right"> <tbody> <tr> <td><a target="_blank" href="/upload/images/PI/SpringCleanup2009.pdf"><img height="155" alt="Spring into cleanup" width="175" src="/upload/images/PI/SpringCleanup2009Web.jpg" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td><font size="1">It's time for Mankato's annual Spring <br /> Cleanup.</font>&nbsp;</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Since spring is a great time for cleanup, the City of Mankato provides many opportunities for residents to recycle, compost and dispose of their unwanted items. Citizens began getting direct notification April 1, and individual notices about the Spring Cleanup event and its features are being sent to Mankato utility customers throughout April. At the spring cleanup site the first four Saturdays in May, citizens will receive a &lsquo;compost at no cost&rsquo; informational sheet. Mankato&rsquo;s news subscribers also receive individual notice through the online newsletter distributed by the first of each month. Spring Cleanup was a feature in April and will again be featured in May. <a href="/NewsEmail.aspx">Subscribe to Mankato news</a> to receive information about spring cleanup, composting and other city service news and information.</p>Many residents express appreciation for Mankato&rsquo;s spring cleanup services and each year city staff strives to build upon success from the previous year. &ldquo;71,000 pounds of electronics was collected at last year&rsquo;s spring cleanup, along with 277 tons of garbage, 14 tons of scrap metal and 770 appliances,&rdquo; said Jim Braunshausen, public works street superintendent. &ldquo;Almost all of the material collected is recycled for reuse.&rdquo; <br /> <br /> Mankato&rsquo;s <a href="http://www.ci.mankato.mn.us/upload/images/Spring%20Cleanup%202009.pdf">Spring Cleanup</a> event is a value-added benefit of Mankato&rsquo;s garbage and recycling service. Bring items to the public works lot at 221 Lamm Street in Mankato the first four Saturdays in May from 7 a.m. to noon. <br /> <br /> When it comes to yard waste, Mankato residents continue to have options. No cost options include composting yard waste at home; or non-commercial residents can take compostable materials to the Southern Minnesota Construction (SMC) compost site at 57032 231st Lane (231st Lane is one mile north of the intersection at Highway 14 and Third Avenue), 507-388-3122. Curbside collection of yard waste is also available to residents for $2 per bag. Special Mankato collection bags are available for purchase at the &quot;downtown&quot; Cub and Hy-Vee. Yard waste is picked up from April until mid-November on the same day as your garbage and recyclables pickup. <br /> <br /> During May, appliances will be picked up at Mankato residents&rsquo; addresses curbside at no charge by scheduled appointment. Included in the appliance recycling are: refrigerators (no recreational vehicle refrigerators), water heaters, dehumidifiers, humidifiers, ranges, air conditioners, microwave ovens, residential furnaces, dryers, washers, dishwashers and water softeners. To schedule an appointment for appliance recycling pickup, or for more information about Spring Cleanup in Mankato, contact <a href="mailto:pwase@city.mankato.mn.us?subject=Spring%20Cleanup">public works staff</a> at 507-387-8649.<br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13693">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsSat, 18 Apr 2009 13:33:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=13689Thinking about hiring a contractor for home improvements? There have been recent reports of contractor scams in the area. The City of Mankato encourages citizens to keep in mind the following tips when hiring a contractor:<ul> <li>Get a written estimate. Compare services and prices before making a final decision. Also, read the fine print. Some contractors charge a fee for a written estimate, which is often applied to the cost of subsequent repairs they make. </li> <li>A signed form is a contractual agreement, even if the salesperson/contractor claims it is not. </li> <li>Check references. Contractors should be willing to provide names of previous customers. Call several former customers who had similar work done to make sure they were satisfied with the job. </li> <li>Verify the builder is currently licensed. Ask for the contractor's license number and contact the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry at 1-800-342-5354. </li> </ul> <p>Before you sign a contract, make sure it includes: a detailed summary of the work to be done, a description of materials to be used, the total contract price or how the price will be calculated, and specific time lines and provisions that address what will happen if the contractor fails to meet the contractual deadlines. <br /> <br /> Learn more about hiring a residential contractor from the <a href="http://www.doli.state.mn.us/rbc_hiring_a_contractor.html">Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry. <br /> </a><br /> </p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=13689">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsFri, 17 Apr 2009 15:15:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13685<div align="left"> <div align="right"> <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="150" align="right" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <p align="left"><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/MankatoPieceBookCover.pdf"><img height="221" alt="" width="150" border="0" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/MankatoPieceBookCover.jpg" /></a></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p align="left"><font size="1">&quot;Dale Eldred Sculpture into Environment,&quot; features photos and information about the Mankato Piece.</font></p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> The Mankato City Council approved placing the Mankato Piece sculpture in Riverfront Park. Although $90,000 was set aside from a recent downtown hotel development to pay for the relocation of the Mankato Piece sculpture, the low bid came in at $61,785. <br /> <br /> </div><p>Citizens knowledgeable about the value of the art sculpture who spoke in favor of relocation of the structure at the April 13 City Council meeting included: </p> <ul> <li>Paul Burns </li> <li>Mike Brennan </li> <li>Shannon Robinson, executive director of Twin Rivers Center for the Arts </li> <li>Jim Johnson, chairperson of Minnesota State University, Mankato art department </li> <li>Barb Embacher, Envision 2020 regional planning group </li> <li>Mike Lagerquist </li> </ul> <p>In 2004, when it became evident that the Mankato Piece would need to be moved for a downtown hotel development, the Mankato City Council created a Mankato Piece Relocation Task Force to identify publicly-controlled preferred sites for relocation. Several Mankato citizens served on this task force. Riverfront Park was eventually recommended as a preferred relocation site for the sculpture. The sculpture was placed in storage until it was incorporated as an art piece within Riverfront Park. <br /> <br /> The sculpture was created in 1968 by Dale Eldred, a Minnesota native and internationally-recognized artist. He served as chairman of the Sculpture Department at the Kansas City Art Institute, one of the leading art schools in the nation. Eldred&rsquo;s works have been installed in Miami, Kansas City, Phoenix, and cities in Finland, Austria, Germany and Turkey. The artist died in 1993. Named the Mankato Piece, it was originally commissioned by the Mankato Fine Arts Council to create an original work as part of Mankato&rsquo;s Centennial celebration. The original art was funded by downtown Mankato retailers. <br /> <br /> In 1981, Eldred stated he had no problems in moving the Mankato Piece. He said that moving something is not such a shocking idea and sometimes they&rsquo;re moved for the better. <br /> <br /> <br /> </p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13685">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsFri, 17 Apr 2009 13:07:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=13684The U.S. Census Bureau has launched a massive field operation to kick off the 2010 Census.<p>More than 140,000 temporary U.S. Census Bureau workers are now verifying addresses across the nation as the first major field operation of the 2010 Census is underway.&nbsp; It is called address verification or address canvassing.&nbsp; </p> <p>Address verification is a critically important step to assure that every housing unit receives a census questionnaire in March 2010.&nbsp; &ldquo;With this operation, the 2010 Census literally hits the roads and the streets. We go to all communities and neighborhoods to make sure that we have correct addresses,&rdquo; said Dennis Johnson, regional director.&nbsp; &ldquo;This is the first publicly visible activity of the 2010 Census.&nbsp; Census workers are not in uniforms, they will have official identification and they&rsquo;ll use hand-held computers equipped with GPS to increase geographic accuracy.&rdquo;&nbsp; <br /> <br /> Census workers may knock on doors to verify addresses and inquire about additional living quarters on certain premises.&nbsp; Workers may ask people in some neighborhoods a few simple questions about housing units.&nbsp; All information collected including addresses is kept confidential and protected by law.&nbsp; <br /> <br /> By law the Census Bureau cannot share respondents&rsquo; answers with any other government agency.&nbsp; No court of law or law enforcement agency can find out respondents&rsquo; answers.&nbsp; All Census Bureau employees (including temporary workers) take an oath for life to keep census information confidential.&nbsp; <br /> <br /> &ldquo;The primary goal of the Census Bureau is to count everyone living in the country, count them once, and count them in the right place.&nbsp; Census data helps inform the process of reapportioning seats to the U.S. House of Representatives,&rdquo; said Dennis Johnson.&nbsp; &ldquo;Plus, over $300 billion in federal dollars get distributed every year to state and local governments based on census data.&nbsp; It&rsquo;s essential to get this first step right and that&rsquo;s why we&rsquo;re out in neighborhoods all over the region and the country.&rdquo;<br /> <br /> For more information contact Mark Konz, City of Mankato planning coordinator, at 507-387-8611.</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=13684">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsFri, 17 Apr 2009 10:15:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13636<div align="left"> <div align="right"> <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="200" align="right" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Mankato-Transit-Facility-Relocation.pdf"><img height="155" alt="" width="200" align="left" border="0" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Mankato-Transit-Facility-Relocation_RESIZED.jpg" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td><font size="1">Proposed Mankato project: Transit facility relocation</font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> A new and improved area transportation plan is in the works.&nbsp; This time it has an added focus &ndash; transit. <br /> <br /> A group of local officials have joined forces to update the existing <a target="_blank" href="<%=site_url%>mataps/Page.aspx">MATAPS</a> (Mankato Area Transportation and Planning Study) plan. The original MATAPS was completed in 1996 and a subsequent update was completed in 2003. <br /> <br /> Previous MATAPS studies focused mainly on roadways and how the system could be improved to best serve the business community and the residents of the Greater Mankato area. This plan, when completed in spring 2010, will identify transportation improvements for area roadways, regional bicycle and pedestrian facilities, local airports and local and regional transit and rail operations.</div>With more emphasis on multi-modal planning, the MATAPS partners are also taking a close look at the need for expanded transit along major corridors. The partners understand the importance of staying connected to the metropolitan area and feel that transit is a very important part of that process. <br /> <br /> The outcome of MATAPS may have a significant impact on the higher education institutions&rsquo; students, faculty and staff in how they commute and travel within the Mankato community. As early as April 20 the higher education community will begin to see surveys collecting travel information and identifying issues. <br /> <br /> The higher education survey will be followed by two others; surveying the needs of the residents and the business community. These surveys will be conducted during the months of June and July 2010. Public open houses are tentatively scheduled for September 2009 and January 2010. <br /> <br /> Mankato serves as a regional center to many residents in southern Minnesota. <br /> <br /> &ldquo;Whether travelers are commuting to Mankato for work, attending a medical appointment, or visiting local retailers, the role of &ldquo;regional center&rdquo; places additional stresses on the existing transportation system,&rdquo; explained Ronda Allis, Region 9 Transportation Planner. &ldquo;In order to plan the area transportation system for the future, the study will include collecting the needs and wants of residents and travelers.&rdquo; <br /> <br /> The partners involved in the study include: <br /> -Mn/DOT <br /> -City of Mankato <br /> -City of North Mankato <br /> -City of Eagle Lake <br /> -City of St. Peter <br /> -Blue Earth County <br /> -Nicollet County <br /> -Le Sueur County <br /> -Region 9 Development <br /> -Minnesota State University, Mankato <br /> <br /> For more information or to get involved in the transportation planning study, contact Ronda Allis, Region Nine Development Commission at 507-389-8886 or Lisa Bigham, MnDOT at 507-304-6195. <br /> <br /> Proposed Mankato projects:<br /> <a href="<%=upload_url%>/Mankato-Railroad-Mitigation-Plan.pdf">Railroad corridor mitigation plan</a><br /> <a href="<%=upload_url%>/Mankato-Transit-Facility-Relocation.pdf">Transit facility relocation</a><br /> <a href="<%=upload_url%>/CSAH12-Extension-Highway-14-Interchange.pdf">CSAH 12 extension/Highway 14 interchange<br /> </a><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13636">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsWed, 15 Apr 2009 12:05:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/yourTake.aspx?ytID=13630<p>The City of Mankato and Blue Earth County&nbsp;qualify for $77,643 in federal funding to enhance law enforcement programs.&nbsp; The four-year grant is a one-time allotment if approved.<br /> <br /> The Department of Public Safety is considering two opportunities:</p> <ul> <li>Implement 311 to offload non-emergency calls from 911 </li> <li>Implement an online reporting system for citizens to report minor crimes and public safety opportunities within the city </li> </ul>Instead of telephoning 911 in non-emergency situations, citizens would call 311 (24-hour service). 311 Operators would determine if an immediate police response is needed, or if the online Internet tool is an option for resolve, i.e. minor thefts, thefts from vehicles, lost property,&nbsp;minor property damage, damage to motor vehicles, nuisance complaints, fire code violations, junk storage issues and parking complaints, to name a few. <br /> <br /> Other communities have experienced a 15 percent reduction in police calls due to the use of 311 and online reporting tools. Use of these tools would enable police officers to devote time to emergency response, targeted traffic enforcement and crime prevention. <br /> <br /> What's &quot;your take&quot; about implementing 311 in Mankato? <br /><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/yourTake.aspx?ytID=13630">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsTue, 14 Apr 2009 12:09:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13604<div style="FLOAT: right"> <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="200" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <p align="right"><img height="120" alt="" width="200" align="right" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/GilligBus.jpg" /></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p align="left"><font size="1">Mankato will purchase two buses, <a target="_blank" href="http://www.gillig.com/New%20GILLIG%20WEB/low%20floor.htm">similar to this one</a>, with federal stimulus funding.</font></p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <p>The purpose of the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.recovery.gov/">Recovery and Reinvestment Act</a> includes national goals to invest in infrastructure, enhance energy independence and protect those in greatest need. <br /> <br /> Mankato projects receiving federal stimulus funds:<ul> <li>Approximately $1 million will be used to resurface the <a target="_blank" href="<%=upload_url%>/Mankato Regional Airport_2.pdf">Crosswind runway</a> (secondary landing) at the Mankato Regional Airport. <br /> </li> <li>Two 35-foot <a target="_blank" href="http://www.gillig.com/New%20GILLIG%20WEB/low%20floor.htm">Gillig</a> transit buses will be purchased at a cost of $700,000. These buses are known for high quality and low maintenance costs, and their longevity will contribute to overall sustainability. <br /> </li> <li>A <a target="_blank" href="http://www.eecbg.energy.gov/#lc1">grant</a> of $167,000 will be used for projects to reduce total energy use and fossil fuel emissions, and improve energy efficiency. City staff will develop an action plan for the use of the funds once guidelines are available. <br /> </li> <li>A <a target="_blank" href="http://www.hud.gov/offices/pih/programs/ph/capfund/ocir.cfm">grant</a> in the amount of $400,000 will be used for specific <a target="_blank" href="<%=upload_url%>/Item 2 Attachment 8 - Proposed Triplex Renovation Front.pdf">public housing improvements</a> including garages, storage and roofs. <br /> </li> <li>Approximately $3.5 million has been allocated for the construction of a bridge (CSAH 12/Sakatah Trail bridge over the Dakota, Minnesota and Eastern Railroad) in preparation of the CSAH 12 Extension/Highway 14 interchange project--<a target="_blank" href="<%=upload_url%>/CSAH12-HWY14 Interchange.pdf">appendix A</a> and <a target="_blank" href="<%=upload_url%>/BEC-CSAH12_HWY14-Interchange.pdf">appendix B</a>, which constructs two miles of arterial roadway to improve overall safety and mobility by reducing traffic volumes on congested Highway 22. Project planning has been done cooperatively by the Minnesota Department of Transportation, Blue Earth County and the City of Mankato. </li> </ul> <p>Mankato projects being submitted for federal stimulus funds: </p> <ul> <li>A $4 million low-interest revolving loan to fund the relining of a 42-inch sanitary sewer pipe from Sibley Park to the wastewater treatment plant (approximately 65 to 70 percent of the city&rsquo;s wastewater travels through the pipe). Additionally, the city could receive a grant of five to 25 percent of the loan amount for meeting requirements of a &ldquo;green&rdquo; project. The project would help ensure the longevity of Mankato&rsquo;s wastewater treatment system. <br /> </li> <li>An estimated $598,000 for the installation of a <a target="_blank" href="<%=upload_url%>/PineStreet-5thAvenue.pdf">gated whistle-free railroad crossing</a>&nbsp;at the intersection of Pine Street and Fifth Avenue&mdash;a residential neighborhood with significant daily train crossings. The project, which is part of the <a target="_blank" href="<%=upload_url%>/RAILROAD CORRIDOR_MARCH 2009.pdf">railroad corridor mitigation plan</a>, is designed to improve safety and enhance livability. <br /> </li> <li>Approximately $78,000 in a one-time <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/BJA/recoveryJAG/recoveryjag.html">Byrne grant</a> (spent over four years) to help fund activities to prevent and control crime, and improve criminal justice system enforcement. Grant dollars would be shared between Mankato and Blue Earth County. Mankato is looking to offload non-emergency calls from 911 to maximize efficiency. <br /> <br /> </li> </ul><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13604">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsWed, 08 Apr 2009 14:42:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/yourTake.aspx?ytID=13600Local Government Aid (LGA) is a state tax-relief program to help keep tax rates uniform for Minnesota communities and ultimately provide parity in municipal services. Nonprofit think tank-Minnesota 2020 recently released a <a href="http://www.mn2020.org/index.asp?Type=B_BASIC&amp;SEC=%7BEE6BECC3-038A-4AE5-8966-16AD2CD38A7B%7D">report</a> about declining state aids to rural cities. <br /> <br /> Mankato could lose up to $3.1 million. What is <a href="http://www.ci.mankato.mn.us/yourTake.aspx?ytID=13600">&ldquo;your take&rdquo;</a> about declining LGA and how it impacts Greater Minnesota&rsquo;s quality of life? <br /> <br /><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/yourTake.aspx?ytID=13600">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsTue, 07 Apr 2009 15:25:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13577<div align="right"> <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="200" align="right" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <p align="left">&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/AmyVokalgivingtestimony.pdf"><img height="218" alt="" hspace="5" width="200" vspace="5" border="0" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/AmygivingtestimonycroppedSMALL.jpg" /></a></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p align="left"><font size="1">Featured from Mankato is Public Safety Commander Amy Vokal. Commander Vokal is one of the first speakers&nbsp;at the </font><a href="http://www.thanklga.org/rally-video/"><font size="1">rally</font></a><font size="1">.</font> </p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> Mankato officials&nbsp;recently participated in a <a href="http://www.thanklga.org/rally-video/">Local Government Aid (LGA) rally</a> at the state capitol, hoping their voices will be heard so LGA will not receive further cuts. Speakers included a Mankato police officer, a St. Paul firefighter, a Minneapolis parks worker, a St. Paul librarian and several mayors and legislators. Featured from Mankato is Public Safety Commander Amy Vokal. <br /> <br /> Ongoing state cuts to local government hurt the quality of life in rural Minnesota cities, according to more than 90 percent of mayors surveyed for a report recently released by nonprofit think tank, <a href="http://www.mn2020.org/index.asp?Type=B_BASIC&amp;SEC=%7BEE6BECC3-038A-4AE5-8966-16AD2CD38A7B%7D">Minnesota2020</a>. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13577">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsFri, 03 Apr 2009 14:31:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=13572The City of Mankato will receive $167,000 in federal stimulus funding for energy efficiency improvements. City staff will develop a final action plan once the fund distribution guidelines are available from the Department of Energy.<br /> Vice President Joe Biden and Energy Secretary Steven Chu today announced plans to invest $3.2 billion in energy efficiency and conservation projects in U.S. cities, counties, states, territories, and Native American tribes. This includes $37,359,500 for state, county and city efforts in Minnesota. <br /> <br /> Today's announcement builds on an investment of $186,109,411 in Minnesota weatherization and energy funding announced by the Administration on March 12 and detailed at www.energy.gov/recovery. &quot;These investments will save taxpayer dollars and create jobs in communities around the country,&quot; said Vice President Biden. &quot;Local leaders will have the flexibility in how they put these resources to work &shy; but we will hold them accountable for making the investments quickly and wisely to spur the local economy and cut energy use.&quot; <br /> <br /> The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant program, funded by President Obama's American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, will provide formula grants for projects that reduce total energy use and fossil fuel emissions, and improve energy efficiency. <br /> <br /> The funding will support energy audits and energy efficiency retrofits in residential and commercial buildings, the development and implementation of advanced building codes and inspections, and the creation of financial incentive programs for energy efficiency improvements. Other activities eligible for use of grant funds include transportation programs that conserve energy, projects to reduce and capture methane and other greenhouse gas emissions from landfills, renewable energy installations on government buildings, energy efficient traffic signals and street lights, deployment of Combined Heat and Power and district heating and cooling systems, and others. <br /> <br /> To ensure accountability, the Department of Energy will provide guidance to and require grant recipients to report on the number of jobs created or retained, energy saved, renewable energy capacity installed, greenhouse gas emissions reduced, and funds leveraged. Funding is based on a formula that accounts for population and energy use. <br /> <br /> &quot;The Block Grants are a major investment in energy solutions that will strengthen America&sup1;s economy and create jobs at the local level,&quot; said Secretary Chu. &quot;The funding will be used for the cheapest, cleanest and most reliable energy technologies we have &shy; energy efficiency and conservation &shy; which can be deployed immediately. The grants also empower local communities to make strategic investments to meet the nation&sup1;s long term clean energy and climate goals.&quot; <br /> <br /><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=13572">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsThu, 26 Mar 2009 15:50:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13571<div> <div align="right"> <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="150" align="right" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td><img height="339" alt="" width="150" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Veterans_Memorial_Place_resized.jpg" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p align="left"><font size="1">Veterans Memorial Place will be located at the east end of Veterans Bridge on the north side of the 200 block of Mulberry Street.&nbsp; For more information contact: <br /> Veterans Memorial Place<br /> PO Box 496<br /> Mankato, MN 56002</font></p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> Mankato&rsquo;s Community Grant Program provides funds for qualifying programs that align with Envision 2020&rsquo;s regional planning goals which represent livability items to make a community exceptional: </div> <ul> <li>Community performing arts and music-enhance public performances in various genres of music and performing arts </li> <li>Community beautification and public art--to beautify and improve the community and public spaces </li> <li>Community social services--provide social services that enhance the quality of life and independence of service to recipients/clients </li> <li>Community events--provide opportunities of gathering for citizens which result in a positive economic impact </li> </ul> <p>The Mankato City Council approved funding for the following <a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/2009MankatoGrants Attachment.pdf">grant requests</a>:</p>Community performing arts and music&hellip;$8,840 <br /> --Mankato Area 77 Lancers marching band&hellip;$3,840 (for direct in-kind use of Alltel Center) <br /> --Mankato Area Community Band&hellip;$2,500 <br /> --Mankato Symphony Orchestra Association, Inc&hellip;.$2,500 <br /> <br /> Community beautification projects and public art&hellip;$4,500 <br /> --Veterans Memorial Place...$4,000 <br /> <br /> Community social services&hellip;$7,000 <br /> --Open Door Health Center&hellip;$5,000 <br /> --Special Olympics Minnesota&hellip;$2,000 <br /> <br /> Community events&hellip;$19,600 <br /> --Great River Energy Bike Festival&hellip;$7,300 <br /> --Peg Ganey for Outdoor Movie Night&hellip;$1,300 (not to exceed, includes direct in-kind costs) <br /> --RiverCrossings Art Fair in Motion&hellip;$2,500 <br /> --South Central MN Pride&hellip;$1,500 <br /> --Greater Mankato Growth and Mankato Moon Dogs&hellip;$5,000 and $2,000 (in-kind services) <br /> to be held at Minnesota State University, Mankato <br /> <br /> &ldquo;The Open Door Health Center grant award will allow us to streamline care and increase provider staff for people who need care but have limited resources and may otherwise have to go without,&rdquo; said Sarah Kruse, executive director. &ldquo;It will also help us leverage additional funding to further benefit our dental and health care patients.&rdquo; <br /> <br /> &ldquo;We&rsquo;re grateful to the City of Mankato because this grant award allows the Lancers to give a concert for the community at the Alltel Center at no admission cost,&rdquo; said Dave Coughlan, Lancers parent volunteer. &ldquo;With our talented students and the type of community support we receive, it&rsquo;s no accident that the Lancers are one of the best marching bands in Minnesota.&rdquo; The Lancers band concert will be held on Sunday, July 19, at 7 p.m.<br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13571">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsThu, 26 Mar 2009 12:41:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13567<div> <div align="right"> <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="200" align="right" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/StateAidDecline.pdf"><img height="129" alt="" hspace="5" width="100" vspace="5" border="0" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/MankatoStateAidDecline_resized.jpg" /></a></td> <td><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/MankatoReductions_1.pdf"><img height="137" alt="" width="100" border="0" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/MankatoReductions_resized.jpg" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p align="left"><font size="1">Mankato's State Aid decline</font></p> </td> <td> <p align="left"><font size="1">Mankato's per capita change</font></p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <strong>State aid to cities declined by nearly 50 percent between 2002 and 2008</strong><br /> <br /> Ongoing state cuts to local government hurt the quality of life in rural Minnesota cities, according to more than 90 percent of mayors surveyed for a <a href="http://www.mn2020.org/index.asp?Type=B_BASIC&amp;SEC=%7BEE6BECC3-038A-4AE5-8966-16AD2CD38A7B%7D">report released today</a>. Nearly 80 percent of mayors felt that LGA cuts also hurt economic development in their cities. <br /> <br /> The report, released by Minnesota 2020, a nonprofit think tank, found that state aid to Minnesota cities declined 47 percent between 2002 and 2008. Because of their relatively low tax base, greater Minnesota cities are more dependent on state aid than cities in general. <br /> <br /> &ldquo;We can&rsquo;t balance the budget on the backs of Minnesota&rsquo;s rural cities,&rdquo; said Matt Entenza, board chair, Minnesota 2020. &ldquo;Cities have been crippled by past LGA cuts. Enough is enough. We must maintain current levels of LGA funding to keep police officers on the street, libraries open and ambulances running.&rdquo; <br /> <br /> </div><p>In partnership with the Coalition of Greater Minnesota cities and Macalester College, Minnesota 2020 surveyed 43 greater Minnesota mayors about the critical issues facing Minnesota cities and the ongoing cuts to LGA. The report highlights the strain placed on rural cities as a result of state aid cuts. More than 90 percent of mayors said that the large state aid cuts in 2003 caused increases in property taxes, cuts in city services, or both. <br /> <br /> The responses do not include the impact of the $66 million cut to local aid dollars that Governor Pawlenty announced in December 2008. Those cuts occurred after the survey was conducted. <br /> <br /> &ldquo;Cities were feeling strapped as a result of LGA cuts made prior to December, and as the survey shows, mayors were already worried about basic services like public safety, road and parks,&rdquo; said Jeff Van Wychen, Minnesota 2020 fellow and report author. &ldquo;We understand that the state is facing a big budget deficit, but we don&rsquo;t think it should be resolved at the expense of basic community services.&rdquo; <br /> <br /> The local government aid program was launched in 1972 as part of the &ldquo;Minnesota Miracle.&rdquo; The revenue sharing program helped local leaders keep property taxes, a regressive tax that disproportionately impacts families with the least ability to pay. In exchange for LGA dollars, cities are largely restricted from generating revenue from taxes other than property taxes. As a result, many rural cities have had to raise property taxes in recent years to replace LGA cuts. <br /> <br /> &ldquo;The state isn&rsquo;t holding up its end of the deal on LGA,&rdquo; said Entenza. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s disingenuous for the Governor to claim &lsquo;no new taxes&rsquo; year after year when his inaction on the state&rsquo;s revenue problem simply pushes it off on local mayors, homeowners and business owners.&rdquo; <br /> <br /> Additional key findings from the survey include: </p> <ul> <li>More than 80 percent of the mayors surveyed agreed that the state has an obligation to assist in funding city services. The state greatly restricts cities&rsquo; abilities to generate revenue in return for LGA so many cities reply heavily on local aid money to pay for services. </li> <li>Nearly 70 percent of mayors felt that the state was not providing enough aid to their city, while 74.4 percent felt that the state does not provide enough assistance to cities in general. </li> <li>Approximately 74 percent of mayors felt that the elimination of LGA would be &ldquo;devastating.&rdquo; State aids and credits comprise nearly 43 percent of the revenue base (i.e. property tax levies plus state aid) of greater Minnesota cities. </li> <li>If LGA were eliminated, 79 percent of the mayors surveyed said their cities would increase property taxes, cut services or both. </li> <li>In the absence of adequate revenues, most mayors (72 percent) indicated that they would cut parks, recreation and libraries. Nearly half (48 percent) indicated that they would cut public safety. </li> </ul> <p>&ldquo;If the state continues to slash LGA as it did six years ago, we can expect the same results: higher local property taxes and fewer public services and investments,&rdquo; said Van Wychen. &ldquo;In short, pay more and get less.&rdquo; <br /> <br /> Minnesota 2020 recommends a balanced approach to the LGA crisis. With the state facing a $6.4 billion deficit (before federal recovery dollars), it&rsquo;s clear that cuts must be made. However, LGA has been cut repeatedly, and cities are running out of options to address budget shortfalls. Minnesota 2020 is calling on state leaders to maintain current levels of LGA funding and to begin to look at the long-term needs of the state. Some of the budget deficit can be addressed with one-time federal dollars this year, but Minnesota has an ongoing revenue problem that must be fixed to ensure future prosperity in the state. <br /> <br /> <br /> </p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13567">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsTue, 24 Mar 2009 15:04:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/yourTake.aspx?ytID=13543Annually, Mankato adopts a five-year <a href="http://www.ci.mankato.mn.us/cm_CIP/Page.aspx">capital improvement pla</a>n that prioritizes street projects. Streets are rated on the condition of the pavement and underground utilities. Springtime is when identification of street projects begin. <br /> <br /> What is &quot;your take&quot; about what projects should be at the top of the list for 2010-2014?<br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/yourTake.aspx?ytID=13543">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsSat, 21 Mar 2009 10:17:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13512<div align="right"> <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="200" align="right" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <p align="left"><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/preventunderagealcoholproclamation.pdf"><img height="94" alt="" hspace="5" width="200" vspace="5" border="0" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/preventunderagealcoholproclamation%20copy2.jpg" /></a></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p align="left"><font size="2"><font size="1">Mankato Mayor John Brady gives proclamation declaring Wednesday, March 25 &ldquo;Prevent Underage Alcohol Use Day&rdquo; in Mankato to Mankato Area Public Schools&rsquo; Anti-Violence Committee members (left to right) Ciara Rollins, Dominique Griffin and Kelsey Mosher. <br /> </font></font></p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> Wednesday, March 25, in Mankato has been proclaimed as &ldquo;Prevent Underage Alcohol Use Day,&rdquo; in response to the request of the community&rsquo;s Anti-Violence Committee.&nbsp; <br /> <br /> The Mankato Area Anti-Violence Committee is a partnership of county/city law enforcement representatives, rehabilitation agencies, post secondary educational institutions, schools and local health agencies.&nbsp; The purpose of the committee is to coordinate services to area students and families in the prevention of illegal chemical use and support in resolving conflict in non-violent ways. <br /> <br /> <br /><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13512">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsThu, 12 Mar 2009 14:48:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/yourTake.aspx?ytID=13361<p>The federal stimulus package sets aside money for eligible federal capital projects in greater Minnesota.&nbsp; It includes projects that are ready to build (key criteria is that it must create jobs), but delayed due to funding constraints.&nbsp; Areas that will be dedicated for federal capital improvement assistance include airport improvement, local roads with high volumes of traffic, transit, railroad crossing safety improvements, water quality and area highways under the jurisdiction of the Minnesota Department of Transportation.&nbsp; Some possible capital projects delayed because of lack of financing include: </p> <ul> <li>Installation of a gated railroad whistle-free crossing on Pine Street (at Fifth Avenue and the Union Pacific main rail and siding)--a residential neighborhood with significant daily train crossings </li> <li>Resurfacing of the secondary runway at the Mankato Regional Airport </li> <li>Purchase of two transit buses, including one hybrid and one diesel </li> <li>Various sewer and water projects that would enhance water quality services within the region (Madison Lake) </li> </ul> <p>Give us &quot;your take&quot; about other ideas. <br /> <br /> <br /> </p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/yourTake.aspx?ytID=13361">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsWed, 25 Feb 2009 10:57:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13344<table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="250" align="right" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Mayor-Chris-Coleman_Mayor-John-Brady.pdf"><img height="205" alt="" hspace="5" width="250" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Mayor-Chris-Coleman_Mayor-John-BradySMALL.jpg" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td><font size="1">St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman and Mankato Mayor John Brady talk about loss of LGA at a&nbsp;news conference in Mankato.</font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman and Mankato Mayor John Brady held a news conference to discuss how communities will be affected if cities lose Local Government Aid (LGA) state funding.&nbsp; Mayor Coleman said cities [like Mankato and St. Paul] are facing tough financial decisions, and that the ability to continue providing city services that citizens depend on will be a challenge without receiving LGA.&nbsp; Under Governor Tim Pawlenty's most recent proposal, Mankato would lose $3.1 million in LGA over the next two years--in addition to the nearly $800,000 cut in 2008.<br /> <br /> Mayor Brady said it is difficult for the city to deal with the reduction of revenue.&nbsp; Even though Mankato has had significant growth and demand for service, city government has not grown accordingly.&nbsp; Not all cities are in the dilemma because some do not receive LGA since it is a tax relief program to assist cities in keeping tax rates uniform across the state, and as a program to provide parity in municipal services.<br /> <br /> For more information <a href="mailto:phentges@city.mankato.mn.us?subject=Local%20Government%20Aid">contact</a> City Manager Patrick Hentges at 507-387-8695.<br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13344">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsThu, 19 Feb 2009 10:30:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13222<div align="left"> <div align="right"> <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="150" align="right" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <p align="left"><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Youth_Voice.pdf"><img height="198" alt="Youth Voice in Local Government" width="150" border="0" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Youth%20Voice%20cover_4.jpg" /></a></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p align="left"><font size="1">Check out Youth Voice in Local Government on Facebook</font></p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <br /> Find the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mankato-MN/City-of-Mankato-Minnesota/37510739521">City of Mankato</a> on Facebook.&nbsp; Stay informed about city happenings including the city bus and opportunities for youth to serve on citizen committees.&nbsp; <br /> <br /> Become a &quot;fan&quot; as another way to be connected to city government.&nbsp; &quot;This communication tool is a way to reach out to audiences using new cost-efficient tools,&quot; said Mankato City Manager Patrick Hentges. <br /> <br /> <strong>Quick links: </strong></div> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mankato-MN/City-of-Mankato-Minnesota/37510739521">City of Mankato</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mankato-MN/Youth-Voice-in-Local-Government/43074243935">Youth Voice in Local Government</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mankato-Bus-Information/40341534356">City bus information</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mankato-Snow-Emergency/43086772306">Snow emergency information</a> </li> </ul> <p>For more information contact the Public Information office at 507-387-8692. <br /> <br /> </p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13222">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsFri, 09 Jan 2009 14:56:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13143<div align="right"> <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="200" align="center" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <p align="right"><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/ChristmasTreeRecycling_2.pdf"><img height="129" alt="Christmas tree recycling in Mankato" hspace="5" width="350" vspace="5" border="0" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/ChristmasTreeRecyclingSMALL.jpg" /></a></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p align="left"><font size="1">Recycle your Christmas trees at no cost, now through Friday</font></p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <p>&nbsp;Now through Friday, January 9, trees may be brought to one of these five Mankato parks:</p> <ul> <li>Erlandson Park </li> <li>Franklin Rogers Park </li> <li>Highland Park </li> <li>Tourtellotte Park </li> <li>Sibley Park </li> </ul>Christmas tree recycling is an added value provided to residents at no charge. For more information call the City of Mankato at 507-387-8649. <br /> <br /> Another option available to Mankato residents is that, for a fee, the <a href="http://www.smc-co.com/sections/compost.html">Southern Minnesota Construction compost site</a> will accept Christmas trees between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. For more information call 507-388-3122. <br /> <br /> <br /><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13143">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsTue, 06 Jan 2009 13:50:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=13092As per the December Minnesota Department of Revenue Sales and Use Tax <a href="http://www.taxes.state.mn.us/taxes/sales/publications/newsletters/newsletters/08_SUT_newsletter.pdf">newsletter (page 8),</a> Mankato's one-half percent food and beverage tax will begin on April 1, 2009. The Mankato City Council approved the ordinance on September 8, and the ordinance became effective January 1, 2009. Items subject to the half percent tax are served food and beverages and ticket sales for entertainment purposes. Establishments will remit sales tax payments directly to the Minnesota Department of Revenue.The half-percent food and beverage tax proceeds will fund the operational costs at the civic center. Previously costs were covered by Mankato's half-percent sales tax; however, in 2008 legislation eliminated operational costs as a possible use but chose to give the community an option of a food and beverage tax as a replacement. Implementation of a food and beverage tax was pursued in lieu of a property tax increase. <br /> <br /> The civic center has been designated as a loss leader to stimulate spending and to provide for the greater good of the community. The civic center provides a great return on investment, generating an <a href="<%=upload_url%>/CivicCentereconomicbenefitgraphic.pdf">economic impact of at least $20 million/year</a>. As a destination, surveys conducted by the Greater Mankato Convention and Visitors Bureau tour team, participants consistently rank the civic center as the 2nd major attraction for Mankato (shopping was ranked as the 1st major attraction). There are at least 700 events held in a typical year. <br /> <br /> More information will be sent to affected establishments as it becomes available. For additional information <a href="mailto:dscott@city.mankato.mn.us?subject=Half-percent%20food%20and%20beverage%20tax">contact</a> the City of Mankato finance office at 507-387-8670. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=13092">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsFri, 02 Jan 2009 14:55:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13050<div> <div align="right"> <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="200" align="right" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <p align="right"><img height="209" alt="" width="200" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/text_msg_alert.jpg" /></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p align="left"><font size="2">Receive snow emergency alerts by text message</font></p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> Mankato has a new communication tool to notify individuals about snow emergencies.&nbsp; <a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/SnowAlerts/">Sign-up</a> to receive Mankato snow emergency alerts by text message.&nbsp; The new feature is designed to inform citizens about snow emergencies in an effort to minimize and ideally eliminate towing. <br /> <br /> Additional ways to receive all the latest about snow emergencies in Mankato: </div> <ul> <li><a href="http://ci.mankato.mn.us/NewsEmail.aspx">Subscribe</a> to receive city news updates by email </li> <li><a href="http://www.ci.mankato.mn.us/">Mankato's Web site</a> and at <a href="http://twitter.com/MktoSnowAlerts">twitter.com</a> </li> <li>Mankato's snow emergency line at 507-387-9001 (24-hour service) </li> </ul> <p>For more information contact Mankato's Public Information office at 507-387-8692. <br /> </p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=13050">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsTue, 16 Dec 2008 19:31:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=12982Moody's Investors Service has upgraded the City of Mankato bond rating to Aa3 (from A1). City Manager Patrick Hentges said analysts were impressed with the City Council's strategic decision making in the areas of budget management, cash reserves and debt management as being some of the primary factors in receiving the upgrade. Reviewers were impressed with the city's ability to structure debt in a manner that has grown the community in an orderly fashion (i.e. investment in infrastructure that has grown the community with a diverse tax base). Finally, there was confidence that Mankato's infrastructure is positioned to have more capacity in the next few years; thus, tempering borrowing needs.&quot;Three bond rating increases within four years will allow us to obtain money for capital improvement projects at a lower rate and save citizens tax dollars,&quot; said Hentges. &quot;Simply put, Mankato's increased bond rating is comparable to an individual's excellent credit rating and its many benefits. From a city organization perspective, in these hard economic times, it's especially rewarding to have a credit upgrade and to be recognized as good stewards of the city's finances.&quot;<br /> <br /> Mankato's previous two bond rating increases (within a six-month period) came at a time when the State had their bond rating reduced. At a time when there is a challenging federal and state financial climate, Mankato's bond rating demonstrates a confidence in our local economy and the city's financial operations. A sensible approach to managing expenses, revenues and reserves benefits the bottom line. <br /> <br /> Moody's Investors Service is among the world&rsquo;s most respected and widely utilized sources for credit ratings, research and risk analysis to protect the integrity of credit. Bond rankings go from Aaa to C. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=12982">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsThu, 04 Dec 2008 15:15:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=12979The Executive Office of the President of the United States, Office of Management and Budget, has notified the State of Minnesota that effective immediately, the Mankato-North Mankato area now officially qualifies as a new Metropolitan Statistical Area. Included are the cities of Mankato and North Mankato and the counties of Blue Earth and Nicollet.The impacts associated with the change in becoming an <a href="http://www.census.gov/population/www/metroareas/metroarea.html">MSA</a> classification includes a new source of transportation funding that will be available to the area. In addition, the area will benefit from a direct allocation of Community Development Block Program (CDBP) money and other programs. The CDBP program provides annual grants to entitled cities to provide &ldquo;decent housing and a suitable living environment&rdquo; and economic opportunities. Eligible activities include: acquisition of property; relocation and demolition; rehabilitation of residential and non-residential structures; construction of public facilities and improvements, such as water and sewer facilities, streets, neighborhood centers, and the conversion of school buildings for eligible purposes; public services; activities relating to energy conservation and renewable energy resources; and provision of assistance to profit-motivated businesses to carry out economic development and job creation/retention activities. <br /> <br /> This gives the area direct access to a number of federal entitlements that otherwise governments have to compete for through state bureaucratic process. The full intent of those advantages are not known at this time, particularly with the state and federal governments budget problems. The cities and counties within the local designation will be working cooperatively to quantify impacts and future organizational parameters needed to administer the change in designation. There are already some intergovernmental structures in place that will assure efficient administration and fair distribution, i.e. Mankato Area Transportation and Planning Study (MATAPS), City-County Economic Development Authority and Port Authority. <br /> <br /> Becoming an MSA should elevate the greater Mankato region to a higher marketing plateau and give the area advantages for recruiting businesses. Patrick Hentges, Mankato City Manager, states that being a MSA is often criteria businesses use when examining communities. Mankato and North Mankato will now become part of the national database of MSA&rsquo;s for marketing purposes.<br /> <br /> For more information contact Paul Vogel, Director of Community Development, at 507-387-8613.<br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=12979">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsThu, 04 Dec 2008 12:40:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12954<div align="right"> <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="3" width="200" align="right" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <p align="left"><img height="198" alt="" width="250" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/2009_calendar_cover_Resized.jpg" /></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p align="left"><font size="1">Mankato's City Calendar. The cover features &quot;Winter Wonderland,&quot; by Mary Kay Ash, SSND, Mankato.</font></p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> Copies of the 2009 City of Mankato calendar are now available.&nbsp; A 39-year tradition, the city calendar is a useful communication tool that features public meeting dates and locations, contact information, 24-hour service numbers and important key city service messages for residents.&nbsp; <br /> An <a href="http://ci.mankato.mn.us/PhotoContest/Page.aspx">annual photo contest</a> encourages citizen involvement and showcases Mankato&rsquo;s quality of life and spaces and places.&nbsp; <br /> <br /> In addition to the online version, copies of the new calendar are now available at the city offices customer services desk on first floor of the&nbsp;Intergovernmental Center, 10 Civic Center Plaza, or by calling the Public Information Office at 507-387-8692.<br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/2009_Calendar_Web.pdf">Download the 2009 Mankato calendar</a> <br /><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12954">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsTue, 02 Dec 2008 14:21:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12776<div align="right"> <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="150" align="right" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Friends-enjoying-Bliss-Java-and-Chocolate-on-Front-Street_Chelsea-Kocina.pdf"><img height="224" alt="" width="150" border="0" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Friends-Enjoying-Bliss-Java-and-Chocolate-on-Front-Street_Chelsea-Kocina_Mankato_resized.jpg" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p align="left"><font face="Arial" size="1">Friends Enjoying Bliss Java and Chocolate on Front Street, by Chelsea Kocina, Mankato</font></p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> Five photos have been named People&rsquo;s Choice Award winners. Citizens voted online and at the Intergovernmental Center for their favorite photos, which were submitted as part of the annual Mankato calendar photo contest. &ldquo;Friends Enjoying Bliss Java and Chocolate on Front Street,&rdquo; by Chelsea Kocina of Mankato, received the most votes. &ldquo;People&rsquo;s Choice&rdquo; was an idea of a citizen as an added value to the calendar contest.<div style="CLEAR: both">&nbsp;</div> <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="100" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr valign="top"> <td><a href="<%=upload_url%>/Eclipse-From-North-Sixth-Street_Matthew-Quinn_St.-Clair.pdf"><img height="133" alt="" width="100" border="0" src="<%=upload_url%>/Eclipse-from-North-Sixth-Street_Matthew-Quinn_St.-Clair_resized.jpg" /></a></td> <td><a href="<%=upload_url%>/Tangerine-Bliss-at-Sibley-Park_Erick-Raygor_Lake-Crystal.pdf"><img height="93" alt="" width="100" border="0" src="<%=upload_url%>/Tangerine-Bliss-at-Sibley-Park_Erick-Raygor_Lake-Crystal_resized.jpg" /></a></td> <td><a href="<%=upload_url%>/Bleeding-Heart_Melinda-Tilly_.pdf"><img height="71" alt="" width="100" border="0" src="<%=upload_url%>/Bleeding-Heart_Melinda-Tilly_resized.jpg" /></a></td> <td><a href="<%=upload_url%>/Twin-Rows_Erick-Raygor_Lake-Crystal.pdf"><img height="122" alt="" width="100" border="0" src="<%=upload_url%>/Twin-Rows_Erick-Raygor_Lake-Crystal_resized.jpg" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td><font size="2">Eclipse&nbsp;from North Sixth Street, by Matthew Quinn, St. Clair</font></td> <td><font size="2">Tangerine Bliss at Sibley Park, by Erick Raygor, Lake Crystal</font></td> <td><font size="2">Bleeding Heart, by Melinda Tilly, Mankato</font></td> <td><font size="2">Twin Rows, by Erick Raygor, Lake Crystal</font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <br /> <br /> View the winners of the 2009 calendar photo contest. <br /> <br /> For more information contact the Public Information office at 387-8692.<br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12776">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsThu, 06 Nov 2008 09:17:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12821<table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="200" align="right" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <p align="right"><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/CHSdonates$100000_2.pdf"><img height="146" alt="CHS Oilseed Processing, Mankato, donates $100,000 for Sibley Park improvements " width="200" align="right" border="0" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/CHSdonates$100000_1.jpg" /></a></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p align="left"><font size="1">CHS Oilseed Processing plant, Mankato, awarded the city with a $100,000 donation to construct a pergola and make rock garden improvements. Pictured left to right are Mankato Director of Public Works Mark Knoff, Mayor John Brady, and CHS employees Jan Hughes, Sue Woodward and Terri Richter. (click on photo for larger image)</font></p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>Hundreds of people of all ages attended the Sibley Park Rededication and enjoyed the fall colors by riding through Sibley Park on a horse-drawn wagon.&nbsp; Featured events of the rededication ceremony included the unveiling of an Al and Erla Fallenstein appreciation plaque; and the announcement of the street naming within Sibley Park to Fallenstein Parkway.&nbsp; <br /> <br /> <br /> </p><p>Both were done in appreciation and acknowledgment of the Sibley Park Farm phase one $200,000 grant provided by the Al and Erla Fallenstein Fund through the Mankato Area Foundation. The farm includes two new red barn-style buildings that will house a variety of small animals to give children an opportunity to experience farm animals through interaction, displays and activities. <br /> <br /> Also at the Sibley Park Rededication, came a new announcement by CHS Oilseed Processing plant, Mankato, that they were donating $100,000 to develop two other Sibley Park attractions&mdash;a <a href="<%=upload_url%>/Pergola.pdf">pergola</a> and for rock garden improvements. Tom Malecha, vice president, Oilseed Processing for CHS, Mankato, sent his wishes saying, &ldquo;We&rsquo;re proud to work and live in this community, and establishing the CHS pergola and rock gardens is one way to demonstrate gratitude to our customers, our neighbors, the city of Mankato and surrounding region.&quot; <br /> <br /> The CHS pergola, a steel structure, will be reminiscent of a park structure from the 1930s, and will likely be a popular destination for weddings, picnics and other community events.&nbsp; CHS rock garden improvements will include upgrading walking paths, covering them with an arbor and installing an irrigation system. <br /> <br /> Sibley Park was established in 1887.&nbsp; A <a href="<%=upload_url%>/FactSheet.pdf">fact sheet</a> was distributed at the Sibley Park Rededication highlighting the park's rich history and upcoming plans.&nbsp; The Exchange Club of Mankato was also thanked for the many years they have provided, and continue to provide, the vending feature within Sibley Park so the public has the option of feeding the farm animals on display. <br /> <br /> Director of Public Works Mark Knoff indicated that within the past few weeks an additional $20,000 donation was made anonymously for Sibley Park improvements. <br /> <br /> Three private donors within a several month period demonstrates a tremendous vote of confidence to mobilize Sibley Park improvements. <br /> <br /> View&nbsp;news coverage of the Sibley Park Rededication&nbsp;on&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keyc.tv/node/12793">KEYC-TV</a> and the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mankatofreepress.com/local/local_story_306235432.html/resources_printstory">Mankato Free Press.<br /> </a><br /> </p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12821">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 03 Nov 2008 14:19:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12687<table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="150" align="right" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/SibleyParkRededicationInvitation.pdf"><img alt="Sibley Park Rededication invitation" hspace="3" align="right" vspace="3" border="0" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/SibleyParkRededicationInvitation_Revised.jpg" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td><font size="1">Click on invitation for larger image</font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p align="left">A <a href="javascript:void(window.open('/Workfiles/Sibley.html','','resizable=no,location=no,menubar=no,scrollbars=no,status=no,toolbar=no,fullscreen=no,dependent=no,width=750,height=600'))">Sibley Park Rededication</a> will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, November 1 to celebrate the completion of phase one--the Sibley Park Farm. The Mankato Area Foundation has made a donation from the Al and Erla Fallenstein fund for the construction of the Sibley Park Farm. The farm includes two new red barn-style buildings to house a variety of small animals that will give children an opportunity to experience farm animals through interaction, displays and activities.</p>At the rededication, there will be an unveiling of an Al and Erla Fallenstein appreciation plaque and an announcement in honor of the Fallensteins. Additionally, a new donation announcement will be made, which will allow the city to enter phase two of the Sibley Park improvements plan. Everyone is welcome to attend the event. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12687">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsThu, 30 Oct 2008 09:56:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=12597Join the City of Mankato and take the Minnesota Energy Challenge.<p>By taking the energy challenge, we agree to take steps toward reducing carbon emissions in an effort to protect the environment. An easy way to begin is by turning off electrical items when not in use. <a href="http://www.mnenergychallenge.org/challenge/">Sign-up</a> to calculate your carbon footprint&mdash;along with the City of Mankato&mdash;and learn how to save money and energy in your home. To date, city staff have pledged to save 80,723 lbs. of carbon, with $8,233 in total savings. <br /> <br /> The Mankato City Council recently signed onto the <a href="http://www.usmayors.org/climateprotection/documents/mcpAgreement.pdf">U.S. Mayors Climate Protection Agreement</a>, which calls upon cities, communities and the federal government to take actions to reduce global warming pollution. The City Council has adopted a <a href="<%=upload_url%>/Resolution%20Endorsing%20US%20Mayors%20Climate%20Protection%20Agreement.pdf">resolution</a> approving Mankato's <a href="<%=upload_url%>/Resolution%20Endorsing%20US%20Mayors%20Climate%20Protection%20Agreement%20Exhibit%20B.pdf">strategic plan for sustainability</a>. &ldquo;We are committed to exploring innovative, cost-effective ways to promote carbon reduction within our organization and within the City of Mankato,&rdquo; said City Manager Patrick Hentges. <br /> <br /> For additional environmental-friendly tips and initiatives go to <a href="http://www.ci.mankato.mn.us">www.ci.mankato.mn.us</a>&nbsp;and click on Mankato area environmentalists under community links. <br /> <br /> For more information contact the City of Mankato Community Development Department at 387-8571. <br /> </p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/newsHome.aspx?p_PageAlias=newspage&p_news_id=12597">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsFri, 26 Sep 2008 09:50:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12538<table align="right" summary="The city of Mankato"> <tbody> <tr> <td><a target="_blank" href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/downtown-view.pdf"><img style="BORDER-LEFT-COLOR: #004e82; BORDER-BOTTOM-COLOR: #004e82; BORDER-TOP-COLOR: #004e82; BORDER-RIGHT-COLOR: #004e82" height="117" alt="Mankato, Minnesota" hspace="1" width="175" align="right" vspace="1" src="/upload/images/downtown-view_resized.jpg" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td><font size="1">Mankato, Minnesota <br /> (click on image for larger picture)</font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> The Mankato City Council recently reviewed a preliminary budget.&nbsp; <a title="City of Mankato 2009 Budget Survey" href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/BudgetSurvey.aspx">How</a> do you think city funding should be spent?<br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12538">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsSun, 14 Sep 2008 16:33:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12529<a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Riverfront_Park_groundbreaking4.pdf"><img height="151" alt="Riverfront Park groundbreaking" hspace="3" width="200" align="right" vspace="3" border="0" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Riverfront_Park_groundbreaking4_resized.jpg" /></a> <div style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify"><font face="Arial" size="2">Citizens,&nbsp;community leaders and city officials&nbsp;gathered at the future site of </font><a href="/upload/images/RiverfrontParkgroundbreakingsign.pdf"><font face="Arial" size="2">Riverfront Park</font></a><font face="Arial" size="2"> for a groundbreaking ceremony.&nbsp; Riverfront Park will celebrate the heritage and culture of greater Mankato by providing recreational and cultural opportunities along the banks of the Minnesota River.&nbsp;<br /> <br /> Pictured in the photograph above are several area citizens who participated in the Riverfront Park groundbreaking held on September 9.&nbsp; Pictured left to right are Amy Ites, Billy Steiner, Denny Dotson, Krist and Kiya Schuck, Karla Haley Malone, Ken Saffert, Mark Halvorson, Mark Piepho, Doug Gardner, Peggy Sheehan, Jo Guck Bailey, Bryan Paulsen, Ann Splinter, Gordon Gibbs, Anna Thill, Steve Meyer, Mark Landkamer, Tom Westlund and Mayor John Brady.</font></div> <div style="FONT-SIZE: smaller"> <p><font face="Arial"><br /> </font>&nbsp; </p> </div><ul> <li>The park fits an important theme of the City Center Renaissance plan&mdash;reconnections. Besides providing a connection to the river, the park will be a connecting point for the Sakatah and Red Jacket trail systems.These systems offer more than 60 miles of continuous off-road trails that run from Faribault to Rapidan. <br /> </li> <li>An <a href="<%=upload_url%>/RiverfrontParkgroundbreakingsign.pdf">amphitheater</a> with seating for more than 1,000 people is planned.<br /> </li> <li>Boating, canoeing, kayaking and fishing along the Minnesota River will now be more accessible. <br /> </li> <li>To reflect Mankato&rsquo;s history as a river and railroad town, there will be a pavilion, including public restrooms and a sheltered picnic area. The pavilion&rsquo;s architecture will echo that of the nearby buildings in Mankato&rsquo;s OldTown area. <br /> </li> <li>Educational kiosks are planned to highlight the local ecology, geology and native plants of the Minnesota River valley. <br /> </li> <li>The project is expected to be complete by 2010. <br /> </li> </ul><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12529">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsFri, 12 Sep 2008 15:47:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12520A new park to celebrate the heritage and culture of greater Mankato along the banks of the Minnesota River. <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="250" align="right" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/GroundBreakinginvitation.pdf"><img height="162" alt="Riverfront Park groundbreaking invitation" width="250" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Ground-Breaking-invitation_resized.jpg" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td><font size="1"><em>This Riverfront Park&nbsp;perspective rendering showcases the proposed amphitheater. (click on picture for larger image)</em></font>&nbsp;</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>Please attend the groundbreaking for&mdash; <br /> <br /> <strong>Riverfront Park</strong><br /> Tuesday, September 9 <br /> 10 a.m.<br /> 310 West Rock Street, Mankato<br /> <br /> For more information contact the Public Information office at 387-8692.&nbsp;<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> </p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12520">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsThu, 04 Sep 2008 15:03:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12517<p>Mankato residents LeRoy and Wendi Masters are the most recent recipients of a Quality of Life package.&nbsp; The Masters won the package as part of the city&rsquo;s Yard of the Week contest.&nbsp; From <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="200" align="right" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Mayor-John-Brady-presents-Quality-of-Life-package-to-LeRoy-and-Wendi-Masters.pdf"></a><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Mayor-John-Brady-presents-Quality-of-Life-package-to-LeRoy-and-Wendi-Masters.pdf"><img height="147" alt="" width="200" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Mayor-John-Brady-presents-Quality-of-Life-package-to-LeRoy-and-Wendi-Masters_Resized.jpg" /></a><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Mayor-John-Brady-presents-Quality-of-Life-package-to-LeRoy-and-Wendi-Masters.pdf"></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td><font size="1">Mayor John Brady presents a Quality of Life package to LeRoy and Wendi Masters (click on picture for larger image)</font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> June through August, Mankato yards were nominated by citizens based on maintenance and general appearance. Yard of the Week winners were selected randomly and were eligible for the Quality of Life package drawing. <br /> <br /> <br /> </p>The purpose of the Quality of Life package is to bring attention to the services provided by the City of Mankato and how they contribute to Mankato&rsquo;s quality of life. <br /> <br /> Mankato&rsquo;s Quality of Life package: <br /> &bull; Utility bill (up to $50 value) <br /> &bull; Recycle bin <br /> &bull; 6&rsquo; boulevard tree (planted as per city forester) <br /> &bull; 10 punch swimming pass at Mankato&rsquo;s Tourtellotte swimming pool <br /> &bull; 10 city bus tokens <br /> &bull; Plat map from Engineering of Mankato resident&rsquo;s primary property <br /> &bull; Smoke detector check by a firefighter <br /> &bull; 1 smoke detector <br /> &bull; Civic center gift certificate for two civic center tickets <br /> &bull; Building permit (up to $50 value) <br /> &bull; Home safety check by a police officer <br /> <br /> For more information about Yard of the Week <a href="mailto:sesch@city.mankato.mn.us?subject=Yard%20of%20the%20Week">contact</a> the Public Information office at 387-8692. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12517">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsWed, 03 Sep 2008 15:50:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12486Jerry and Judie O'Meara, 302 Hope Street, have been named this week's Yard of the Week winners. <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="250" align="right" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/YardoftheWeekwinnersJerryandJudieO'Meara.pdf"><img height="181" alt="" width="250" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/YardoftheWeekwinnersJerryandJudieO'MearaResized.jpg" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td><font size="1">Yard of the Week winners Jerry and Judie O'Meara (click on image for larger picture)</font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <br /> <br /> Each week, Mankato citizens are nominated based on well-maintained yards and general appearance. The O'Meara's are now eligible for the Quality of Life package drawing in September. This package brings attention to the services the city provides and how they contribute to Mankato's quality of life. <br /> <br /> For more information contact Mankato's Public Information office at 387-8692.<br /> <br /> <br /><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12486">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 25 Aug 2008 15:07:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12477<div style="PADDING-LEFT: 10px; FLOAT: right; MARGIN-LEFT: 5px"> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="150" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td><a href="/upload/images/deerhunt2008.pdf"><img style="BORDER-RIGHT: medium none; BORDER-TOP: medium none; BORDER-LEFT: medium none; BORDER-BOTTOM: medium none" height="200" alt="Mankato Deer Hunt" width="133" src="/upload/images/deerhunt2008a.jpg" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td><span class="imgCaption">Click on flyer for larger image</span></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div style="PADDING-RIGHT: 3px; TEXT-ALIGN: justify"> <p>Mankato's deer hunt will take place in Rasmussen Woods (555 Stoltzman Road) beginning October 18 and will continue to the end of archery season in December.&nbsp; Bowhunters need to pass a proficiency test to be considered for the deer hunt.&nbsp;&nbsp;A deer hunt is <a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/deerhunt2008.pdf"></a>necessary to cull the deer herd as required by the <a href="http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/hunting/deer/index.html#">Minnesota Department of Natural Resources</a>.&nbsp; <a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/deerhunt2008.pdf"></a></p> </div> <p>For more information <a href="mailto:pwpse@city.mankato.mn.us?subject=Mankato%27s%20deer%20hunt">contact</a> Mankato Public Works-parks staff at 387-8649. </p> <p>&nbsp;</p><br /><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12477">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsFri, 22 Aug 2008 16:32:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12465Al and Vickie Hanson, 718 Belwood Drive, have been named this week's Yard of the Week winners. <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="200" align="right" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/councilorjackconsidineandyardoftheweekwinnersAlandVickieHanson2.pdf"><img height="134" alt="" width="200" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/councilorjackconsidineandyardoftheweekwinnersAlandVickieHansonresized.jpg" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td><font size="1">Pictured left to right: Councilor Jack Considine and Yard of the Week winners Vickie and Al Hanson (click on picture for larger image)</font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <br /> <br /> Each week, Mankato citizens are nominated based on well-maintained yards and general appearance. The Hanson's are now eligible for the Quality of Life package drawing in September. This package brings attention to the services the city provides and how they contribute to Mankato's quality of life. <br /> <br /> To <a href="mailto:sesch@city.mankato.mn.us?subject=Yard%20of%20the%20Week%20nomination">nominate</a> a Yard of the Week contact the City of Mankato Public Information office at 387-8692.<br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12465">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 18 Aug 2008 16:16:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12452Gene and Pat Glade,&nbsp;133 E. Glencrest Drive, have been named this week's Yard of the Week winners. <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="200" align="right" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/YardoftheWeekwinnersGeneandPatGlade.pdf"><img height="140" alt="" width="200" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/YardoftheWeekwinnersGeneandPatGladeresized.jpg" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td><font size="2">Yard of the Week winners Gene and Pat Glade (click on picture for larger image)</font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <br /> <br /> Each week, Mankato citizens are nominated based on well-maintained yards and general appearance. The Glade's&nbsp;are&nbsp;now eligible for the Quality of Life package drawing in September. This package brings attention to the services the city provides and how they contribute to Mankato's quality of life. <br /> <br /> To <a href="mailto:sesch@city.mankato.mn.us">nominate</a> a Yard of the Week contact the City of Mankato Public Information office at 387-8692.<br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12452">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 11 Aug 2008 17:24:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12436<table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="200" align="right" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/YardoftheWinnerSharonSwanson.pdf"><img height="151" width="200" alt="" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/YardoftheWinnerSharonSwansonresized.jpg" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td><font size="2">Yard of the Week winner Sharon Swanson</font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Sharon Swanson,&nbsp;709 Shakespeare Avenue, has been named this week's Yard of the Week winner. <br /> <br /> Each week, Mankato citizens are nominated based on well-maintained yards and general appearance.&nbsp; Swanson is now eligible for the Quality of Life package drawing in September. This package brings attention to the services the city provides and how they contribute to Mankato's quality of life. <br /> <br /> To <a href="mailto:sesch@city.mankato.mn.us">nominate</a> a Yard of the Week contact the City of Mankato Public Information office at 387-8692.<br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12436">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 04 Aug 2008 18:21:46 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12407Shari Hager,&nbsp;130 Atwood Drive, has been named this week's Yard of the Week winner. <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="200" align="right" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/MayorJohnBradyandYardoftheWeekwinnerShariHager.pdf"><img height="119" width="200" alt="" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/MayorJohnBradyandYardoftheWeekwinnerShariHagerresized.jpg" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td><font size="1">Pictured left to right: Mayor John Brady and Yard of the Week winner Shari Hager (click on picture for larger image)</font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <br /> <br /> Each week, Mankato citizens are nominated based on well-maintained yards and general appearance.&nbsp; Hager&nbsp;is now eligible for the Quality of Life package drawing in September.&nbsp; This package brings attention to the services the city provides and how they contribute to Mankato's quality of life. <br /> <br /> To <a href="mailto:sesch@city.mankato.mn.us?subject=Yard%20of%20the%20Week%20nomination">nominate</a> a Yard of the Week contact the City of Mankato Public Information office at 387-8692.<br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12407">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 28 Jul 2008 12:48:51 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12391Brendan and Gretchen Maher,&nbsp;505 Diamond Creek Road, have been named this week's Yard of the Week winners. <br /> <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="200" align="right" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/YardoftheWeekwinnersGretchenandBrendanMaher.pdf"><img height="131" alt="" width="200" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/YardoftheWeekwinnersGretchenandBrendanMaherresized.jpg" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td><font size="1">Yard of the Week winners Gretchen and Brendan Maher (click on picture for larger image)</font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <br /> Each week, Mankato citizens are nominated based on well-maintained yards and general appearance. The Maher's are now eligible for the Quality of Life package drawing in September. This package brings attention to the services the city provides and how they contribute to Mankato's quality of life. <br /> <br /> To <a href="mailto:cmpia@city.mankato.mn.us?subject=Yard%20of%20the%20Week%20nomination">nominate</a> a Yard of the Week contact the City of Mankato Public Information office at 387-8692. <br /> <br /> <br /><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12391">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 21 Jul 2008 09:15:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12361Don and Pat Schmidt, 116 West 9th Street, have been named this week's Yard of the Week winners. <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="200" align="right" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/yardoftheweekwinnersdonandpatschmidtandcouncilorjackconsidine.pdf"><img height="135" width="200" alt="" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/yardoftheweekwinnersdonandpatschmidtandcouncilorjackconsidineresized.jpg" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td><font size="1">Pictured left to right: Don and Pat Schmidt and Councilor Jack Considine (click on picture for larger image)</font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>Each week, Mankato citizens are nominated based on well-maintained yards and general appearance.&nbsp; The Schmidt's are now eligible for the Quality of Life package drawing in September.&nbsp; This package brings attention to the services the city provides and how they contribute to Mankato's quality of life. <br /> <br /> To <a href="mailto:sesch@city.mankato.mn.us?subject=Yard%20of%20the%20Week%20nomination">nominate</a> a Yard of the Week contact the City of Mankato Public Information office at 387-8692. <br /> </p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12361">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 14 Jul 2008 08:17:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12316LeRoy and Wendi Masters, 100 Inverness Court, have been named this week's Yard of the Week winners. <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="200" align="right" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/YardoftheWeekWinnersWendiandLeRoyMasters.pdf"><img height="131" alt="" width="200" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/YardoftheWeekWinnersWendiandLeRoyMastersResized.jpg" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td><font size="1">Pictured: Wendi and LeRoy Masters (click on picture for larger image)</font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <br /> <br /> Each week, Mankato citizens are nominated based on well-maintained yards and general appearance.&nbsp; The Masters are now eligible for the Quality of Life package drawing in September.&nbsp; This package brings attention to the services the city provides and how they contribute to Mankato's quality of life. <br /> <br /> To <a href="mailto:sesch@city.mankato.mn.us?subject=Yard%20of%20the%20Week%20nomination">nominate</a> a Yard of the Week contact the City of Mankato Public Information office at 387-8692. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12316">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 07 Jul 2008 10:58:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12282Gary and Jodi Pericak, 730 Baker Avenue, have been named this week's Yard of the Week winners. <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="200" align="right" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/featurednewsweek4.pdf"><img height="135" alt="" width="200" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/featurednewsweek4resized.jpg" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td><font size="1">Pictured left to right: Mankato City Councilperson Jack Considine and Jodi Pericak (click on picture for larger image)</font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <br /> <br /> Each week, Mankato citizens are nominated based on well-maintained yards and general appearance. The Pericak&rsquo;s are now eligible for the Quality of Life package drawing in September. This package brings attention to the services the city provides and how they contribute to Mankato's quality of life. <br /> <br /> To nominate a Yard of the Week <a href="mailto:sesch@city.mankato.mn.us?subject=Yard%20of%20the%20Week%20nomination">contact</a> the City of Mankato Public Information office at 387-8692. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12282">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 30 Jun 2008 07:59:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12274Robert and Dorothy Isdahl,&nbsp;120 Ellis Avenue, have been named this week's Yard of the Week winners.&nbsp;&nbsp; <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="200" align="right" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/featurednewsweek31.pdf"><img height="133" alt="" width="200" align="right" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/featurednewsweek3.jpg" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p align="left"><font size="1">Pictured left to right: Mayor John Brady, Robert and Dorothy Isdahl, City of Mankato Planning Coordinator Mark Konz<br /> (Click picture for larger image)</font></p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <br /> <br /> Each week, Mankato citizens are nominated based on well-maintained yards and general appearance. The Isdahl's are now eligible for the Quality of Life package drawing in September. This package brings attention to the services the city provides and how they contribute to Mankato's quality of life. <br /> <br /> To nominate a Yard of the Week <a href="mailto:sesch@city.mankato.mn.us?subject=Yard%20of%20the%20Week%20nomination">contact</a> the City of Mankato Public Information office at 387-8692. <br /> <br /> <br /><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12274">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 23 Jun 2008 11:40:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12243Leland McCormick and Stella Thompson, 512 Cardinal Place, have been named this week's Yard of the Week winners.&nbsp; <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="200" align="right" summary="" border="0"> <caption></caption> <tbody> <tr> <td> <p align="center"><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/PublicSafety/yardoftheweek2.pdf"><img height="133" alt="" width="200" align="right" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/featurednewsweek2.jpg" /></a></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p align="left"><font size="2">Pictured left to right: Stella Thompson, Leland McCormick and City of Mankato Councilperson Vance Stuehrenberg</font></p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>Each week, Mankato citizens are nominated based on well-maintained yards and general appearance.&nbsp; McCormick and Thompson are now eligible for the Quality of Life package drawing in September.&nbsp; This package brings attention to the services the city provides and how they contribute to Mankato's quality of life. <br /> <br /> To nominate a Yard of the Week <a href="mailto:sesch@city.mankato.mn.us?subject=Yard%20of%20the%20Week%20nomination">contact</a> the City of Mankato Public Information office at 387-8692.<br /> </p><br /><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12243">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsThu, 19 Jun 2008 16:11:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12226City Manager Patrick Hentges unveiled public safety&rsquo;s new redesigned police vehicle&mdash;the first of 10 replacement vehicles. Hentges said, &ldquo;The police vehicle design is intended to have a traditional look and be highly visible.&rdquo; <br /> <br /> &ldquo;Visibility is a top priority,&rdquo; said Matt Westermayer, Deputy Director of Public safety. &ldquo;Additionally, we also like the professional look of a black and white vehicle.&rdquo;<br /> <br /> The vehicles can be seen from a significant distance and are highly visible in snow conditions. <br /> <br /> <br /> <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="200" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/PublicSafety/Newdesign5.pdf"><img height="131" alt="" width="200" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/PublicSafety/Newdesignwithofficers.jpg" /></a></td> <td><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/PublicSafety/1950's police vehicle photoshopped.pdf"><img height="138" alt="" width="175" align="right" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/PublicSafety/1950's%20police%20vehicle%20photoshopped.jpg" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p align="center"><font size="2">Picturd left to right: Patrol Commander Jeremy Clifton and Police Officer Tiffany Blaschko with new patrol car</font></p> </td> <td> <p align="center"><font size="2">Mankato police vehicle 1949</font></p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12226">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsThu, 19 Jun 2008 16:10:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12214After considerable <a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/AgendaRecommendation.pdf">study</a>, the Mankato City Council has adopted an <a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Ordinance.pdf">ordinance</a> change (effective July 9, 2008) restricting rental licensing in certain residential <a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/OfficialMap.pdf">areas</a>. The change restricts the number of rental licenses to not more than 25 percent of the properties on a residential block.<p>The ordinance change was done in response to neighborhood concerns regarding the conversion of homes to rental and increased nuisance complaints associated with rental properties in areas where rental properties comprise more than 25 percent of all properties. Through research, it was found that the average rental density in fully developed neighborhoods was approximately 27 percent while the state average was approximately 23 percent. Additionally, in areas where rental properties comprise over 25 percent of the properties, over half of the nuisance complaints were attributed to the rental properties.&nbsp; <br /> <br /> The ordinance change does not affect existing rental licenses--these licenses can still be renewed and transferred. However, if a block has 25 percent or more of the properties licensed as rental, no additional licenses will be issued. <br /> </p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12214">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsThu, 12 Jun 2008 09:33:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12206<p> <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="200" align="right" summary="" border="0"> <caption></caption> <tbody> <tr> <td><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/yardoftheweek.pdf"><img height="142" width="200" alt="" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/featurednewsweb.jpg" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td><span class="imgCaption"><font size="2">Pictured left to right: Jerry and Elizabeth Olson with Mankato City Councilperson Vance Stuehrenberg</font></span></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Jerry and Elizabeth Olson have been named this week's Yard of the Week winners.&nbsp; Each week, Mankato citizens are nominated based on well-maintained yards and general appearance.</p>The Olson's are now eligible for the Quality of Life package drawing in September. This package brings attention to the services the city provides and how they contribute to Mankato's Quality of Life. <br /> <br /> To nominate a Yard of the Week <a href="mailto:sesch@city.mankato.mn.us?subject=Yard%20of%20the%20Week%20nomination">contact</a> the City of Mankato Public Information office at 387-8692. <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12206">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 09 Jun 2008 15:02:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12004<p><a target="_blank" href="/upload/images/PublicWorks/Parks/TourtellottePool.pdf"><img height="200" alt="TourtellottePool" width="182" align="right" border="0" src="/upload/images/TourtellottePoolresized.jpg" /> </a>Tourtellotte Pool is open for the season.&nbsp; <a href="http://ci.mankato.mn.us/PARKS_TourtellottePool/Page.aspx">For information</a> on private pool rentals and special programs call: Tourtellotte Pool at 387-7946 or 387-8649.</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=12004">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsFri, 06 Jun 2008 16:00:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=11379<p> <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="200" align="left" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/PI/airportevent2.jpg"><img height="166" alt="" width="250" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/PI/airportevent.jpg" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><font size="1">Mankato Mayor John Brady and City Manager Patrick Hentges.</font></em> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> A Runway Extension Dedication was held on December 6 for the newly extended runway at the Mankato Regional Airport, 3030 Airport Road. </p><p>Mankato&rsquo;s new runway will now accommodate airplanes as large as a 757. </p> <p>The development of the Mankato Regional Airport, 3030 Airport Road, provides improvements to the airport runway 15-33 to meet existing and future transportation demands as well as to meet Federal Aviation Administration guidelines and policies. A quality transportation system serves as the foundation for economic development. Access to well-maintained aviation facilities plays an increasingly important role in determining where a business will locate or expand. <br /> <br /> <table align="right"> <tbody> <tr> <td><script language="JavaScript" type="text/javascript" src="http://mankato-mn.img.cdn.dayport.com/dayportcore/dpm/DayPortPlayers.js?v=20070107"></script><script language="JavaScript" type="text/javascript">DayPortPlayer.newPlayer({articleID:"10", categoryID:"3", domain:"mankato-mn.dayport.com", playerInstanceID:"4B97A9C1-DED2-A2F7-68E3-3459876AD1F9"});</script></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> The runway length (5,400&rsquo;) limited aircraft operations during adverse weather conditions, showing the need for expansion. Pilots that were interviewed noted that they had to reduce the amount of fuel and cargo that they normally carried. In addition, lengthening the runway would increase jet activity 10-15 percent per year and allow mid-sized and larger jets to use the Mankato Regional Airport, possibly allowing for future commercial air services. project cost is about $12 million. It&rsquo;s estimated that 80 percent of the project will be funded through federal and state dollars. <br /> <br /> In conjunction with this event, Mesaba Airlines and Minnesota State University, Mankato announced a new partnership to create a program that will provide a streamlined selection process for students to have the opportunity to become future Mesaba Airlines pilots. <br /> <br /> &ldquo;Mesaba recognizes that Minnesota State Mankato&rsquo;s Aviation program provides high-quality training and experience for student pilots,&rdquo; said Mesaba Airlines President John Spanjers. &ldquo;We are excited about this new alliance, and look forward to a long and successful relationship.&rdquo; <br /> <br /> As part of the event a drawing was held for airplane rides through Mankato's River Valley. Winners are: <br /> Gene Hallmau <br /> Art Zuhlsdorf <br /> Dennis Erickson <br /> Diane LaRochelle <br /> Gary Lundin <br /> Nick Roman <br /> <br /> For more information contact Mankato's Public Information office at 387-8516. <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> </p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=11379">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsFri, 07 Mar 2008 13:59:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=11592<table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="200" align="right" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <p align="right"><a target="_blank" href="http://mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Veterans sketch-up 1.jpg"><img height="147" alt="Architectural drawing by I &amp; S Engineers, Mankato" width="200" border="0" src="http://mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Veterans_Memorial_Place_resized300.jpg" /></a></p> <span class="imgCaption"> <p>Architectural drawing by I &amp; S Engineers, Mankato.</p> </span></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <!-- begin fact list --> <p>Construction of the veterans memorial will be privately funded. </p> <p>The memorial is expected to be dedicated as Veterans Memorial Place and will be maintained by the City of Mankato Public Works-Parks staff. </p> <p>Property was designated for a memorial as part of construction of the Veterans Memorial Bridge in the 1980's.&nbsp; The property is owned by the Federal government and managed by the City of Mankato. </p> <p>Local veterans have developed the concept in memory of those who have served our country.&nbsp;&nbsp; </p> <p>Completion is anticipated within the next year.&nbsp; </p><p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Veterans1.jpg"><img height="148" alt="" width="200" border="0" src="<%=upload_url%>/veterans_top_resized 200.jpg" /></a><br /> Top view of Veterans Memorial Place.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Veterans sketch-up 3.jpg"><img height="148" alt="" width="200" border="0" src="<%=upload_url%>/Veterans_side_resized200.jpg" /></a><br /> Side perspective of Veterans Memorial Place.</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=11592">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 04 Feb 2008 09:00:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=11579<p>Jim Braunshausen, Public Works-Streets likes to do things right.&nbsp; He's willing to help others, seeks input and enjoys challenging new city projects.&nbsp; City Manager Pat Hentges said, &quot;Jim has exceptional ability to lead people.&quot; </p> <p> <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="200" align="right" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <p><img height="181" width="200" alt="" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Jim Braunshausen, Supervisor of the Year.jpg" /></p> <span class="imgCaption"> <p>Jim Braunshausen, Public Works-Streets</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> </span></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </p><p>Braunshausen is highly regarded as someone who wouldn't ask employees to do something he isn't willing to do himself.&nbsp; </p> <p>Jim Braunshausen has 22 years of service as a Mankato Public Works-Streets employee, and for the past nine years as foreperson.</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=11579">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsThu, 24 Jan 2008 15:10:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=11482<table width="150" align="right"> <tbody> <tr> <td><img height="210" alt="Glen Cansler" width="150" src="http://mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Glen Cansler.jpg" /> </td> </tr> <tr> <td><font face="Arial" size="1">Glen Cansler has five years of service as a Mankato firefighter.</font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>Glen Cansler, Publc Safety-Fire is the City of Mankato's &quot;Employee of the Year.&quot;&nbsp; The City Manager recently made the announcement acknowledging several of Cansler's outstanding qualities including his responsiveness.</p><font face="Arial">Citizens have phoned to compliment Firefighter Cansler for his personal touch and compassion. He was also highly praised for being neighborly since he is enthusiastically willing to lend a helping hand. He works with regional groups to assist in crisis situations; and he naturally steps up as a leader of his crew. Glen Cansler is recognized as a City of Mankato employee <a href="http://www.ci.mankato.mn.us/pages.aspx?p_PageAlias=mkto_vision">Leading the way...</a></font><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=11482">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 07 Jan 2008 16:14:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=11333<p><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Airport_AdFINAL.pdf"><img height="478" alt="" hspace="15" width="250" align="left" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/PI/Airplane_ad_photo.jpg" /></a>The extended runway at the Mankato Regional Airport, 3030 Airport Road, is now open. Plan to attend the Runway Extension Dedication at 2 p.m., Thursday, December 6. Stop by to register to win an airplane ride through Mankato&rsquo;s river valley. </p><p>A quality transportation system serves as the foundation for economic development. Access to well-maintained aviation facilities plays an increasingly important role in determining where a business will locate or expand. </p> <p><strong>The purpose</strong> <br /> The development of the Mankato Regional Airport, 3030 Airport Road, provides improvements to the airport runway 15-33 to meet existing and future transportation demands as well as to meet Federal Aviation Administration guidelines and policies. Mankato&rsquo;s new runway will now accommodate airplanes as large as a 757. </p> <p><strong>The need</strong> <br /> The runway length (5,400&rsquo;) limited aircraft operations during adverse weather conditions. Pilots that were interviewed noted that they had to reduce the amount of fuel and cargo that they normally carried. In addition, lengthening the runway would increase jet activity 10-15 percent per year and allow mid-sized and larger jets&nbsp;&nbsp;to use the Mankato Regional Airport, possibly allowing for future commercial air services. <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="200" align="right" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td><a href="<%=upload_url%>/PI/Mankato_Airport_Aerial.jpg"><img height="133" alt="" hspace="10" width="200" align="right" vspace="10" src="<%=upload_url%>/PI/Mankato_Airport_Aerial_for_web.jpg" /></a><a href="<%=upload_url%>/PI/Mankato_Airport_Aerial.jpg"></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><font face="Times New Roman" color="#231f20"> <p align="left"><font size="1">Mankato Regional Airport&hellip;Runway 15-33 is extended from 5,400 to 6,600 feet, which will now accommodate airplanes as large as a 757.</font></p> </font></em></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </p> <p>To learn&nbsp;more see the <a href="<%=upload_url%>/PI/Airport_Fact_Sheet.pdf">Mankato Regional Airport Fact Sheet</a>. For more information contact Mankato's Public Information <a href="mailto:sschulz@city.mankato.mn.us">staff </a>at 387-8516.</p> <p>&nbsp; </p> <p><br /> <br /> </p> <p>&nbsp;</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=11333">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsWed, 21 Nov 2007 12:27:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=11218<p> <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="200" align="left" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/PI/Jan-ASupriseSnowfallByBradKerkow-Mankato.jpg"><img height="189" width="250" align="left" alt="" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/PI/Jan-ASupriseSnowfallByBradKerkow-Mankato.jpg" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td>&quot;A Surprise Snowfall&quot; by Brad Kerkow, Mankato.</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </p> <p>Look for Mankato&rsquo;s 2008 City Calendar scheduled to be released in the November 20th issue of &ldquo;Home Magazine.&rdquo; <br /> </p>Brad Kerkow, Mankato, won first place for his photo &ldquo;A Surprise Snowfall.&rdquo; It will be featured on the calendar&rsquo;s cover and during January. Second place went to Chelsea Kocina, Mankato, for her photo &ldquo;Practice Makes Perfect.&rdquo; It will be featured in April. See a complete listing of this year&rsquo;s winners. <br /> <br /> Mankato&rsquo;s city calendar, a 38-year tradition, is a useful communication tool that features public meeting dates and locations, contact information, 24-hour service numbers and important key city service messages for residents. The annual photo contest encourages citizen involvement and showcases Mankato&rsquo;s quality of life and spaces and places. The top two winning photographs are enlarged, framed and placed on the walls of the Intergovernmental Center, 10 Civic Center Plaza. <br /> <br /> Entries are now being accepted for the 2009 City of Mankato Calendar Photo Contest. The public is encouraged to capture Mankato&rsquo;s spaces and places. <br /> <br /> For more information contact Mankato&rsquo;s Public Information <a href="mailto:efiedler@city.mankato.mn.us">staff </a>at 387-8692.<br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=11218">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 29 Oct 2007 20:11:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=11103<table style="WIDTH: 263px; HEIGHT: 401px" cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" align="left" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td><img height="376" alt="" width="250" align="left" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/PI/Emily-Javens-Photos-002.jpg" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td><font size="1"><em>Emily Javens, Associate Civil Engineer, stands next to one of Mankato's storm drains.</em></font></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is seeking public comment on the City of Mankato&rsquo;s Storm Water Pollution Prevention Program (SWPPP). The City is required to apply for permit coverage in order to legally discharge storm water.To obtain permit coverage, the City must develop, implement and enforce a SWPPP that has been designed to reduce the discharge of pollutants and protect water quality. <br /> <br /> Interested persons are invited to submit written comments to the MPCA through Monday, October 29. Specifically, the MPCA is asking the public whether or not permit coverage should be extended. For more information on this process, visit <a href="http://www.pca.state.mn.us/news/data/index.cfm?PN=1">http://www.pca.state.mn.us/news/data/index.cfm?PN=1</a> and select the public notice dated September 27, 2007. The SWPPP can be viewed on the second floor of the Intergovernmental Center, 10 Civic Center Plaza, or <a href="http://ci.mankato.mn.us/pages.aspx?p_PageAlias=swppp">online</a>. <br /> <br /> &quot;We value water quality, and we also value what the public has to say,&quot; said Emily Javens, Associate Civil Engineer. &quot;It is a new day. Environmental concerns seem to resonate more with the public. This is an opportunity for them to express whether or not we are doing enough.&quot; <br /> <br /> For more information contact Mankato's Engineering <a href="mailto:ejavens@city.mankato.mn.us">staff</a> at 387-8634.<br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=11103">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsThu, 04 Oct 2007 12:06:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=11089<table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="200" align="left" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td><a href="http://mankato-mn.gov/upload/contents/327/2007CalendarFINAL.pdf"><img height="110" alt="Mankato's 2007 City Calendar. This year's first place (cover) winner will be announced on October 22." width="152" align="left" border="0" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/PI/2007calendarcoverforfeature.jpg" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em>Mankato's 2007 City Calendar. This year's first place (cover) winner will be announced on October 22.</em></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> More than 340 entries were submitted for Mankato&rsquo;s Calendar Photo Contest. John Cross, a photographer at &ldquo;The Free Press,&rdquo; judged the submitted entries. The calendar is expected to be distributed in the November 20 edition of &ldquo;Home Magazine.&rdquo;<p>This year&rsquo;s winners are: <br /> January-A surprise snowfall by Brad Kerkow, Mankato <br /> February-Serene Sibley by Becky Thompson, Waterville <br /> March-Welcome to Mankato by Richard Buckmister, Mankato <br /> April-Practice makes perfect by Chelsea Kocina, Mankato <br /> May-Go fly a kite by Denice Woller, Mankato <br /> June-Racing to the finish by Charles Berg, Mankato <br /> July-Night game at Franklin by Bruce Poburka, Mankato <br /> August-Sweet serenity by Kristy Kanstrup, Mankato <br /> September-Hannah&rsquo;s adventure by Bonnie Sellner, Mankato <br /> October-Par 3 by Laurel Schemmel, Mankato <br /> November-Early morning frost in precious Rasmussen Woods by Bayard Black, Mankato <br /> December-Winter residents by Deb Gruhlke, Mankato <br /> <br /> The following received Honorable mention:<br /> Melissa Allen, North Mankato<br /> Karin Ambros-Ward, Mankato <br /> Arik Andersen, Mankato <br /> Rachel Bennett, Mankato <br /> Charles Berg, Mankato <br /> Terri DeGezelle, Mankato <br /> LuAnn Friedrichs, Mankato <br /> Mary Gitter-Zehnder, Mankato <br /> Caite Hale, Mankato <br /> Shoshonna Hammond, Mankato <br /> Curtis Hanson, Mankato <br /> Jaclyn Heim, Mankato <br /> Kay Helms, Mankato <br /> Ruth Jackson, North Mankato <br /> Ann Judkins, North Mankato <br /> Vicki Lauruhn, North Mankato <br /> Hannelore Leipold, Mankato <br /> Jack Madsen, Good Thunder <br /> Jennifer Myers, Mankato <br /> Nissa Olson, Mankato <br /> Rick Pepper, Mankato <br /> Allen Schmidt, Mankato <br /> Julia Snelson, Mankato <br /> Julie Thorleifson, Mankato <br /> Carol Whitney, Mankato <br /> Denice Woller, Mankato <br /> <br /> Winning photographs are available for viewing at <a href="http://www.ci.mankato.mn.us/pages.aspx?p_PageAlias=calendarwinners">www.ci.mankato.mn.us</a>. City calendar winners will be recognized at 6 p.m., Monday, October 22 during the City Council meeting.<br /> <br /> The Mankato city organization developed the calendar, a 38-year tradition, as a useful communication tool to feature public meeting dates and locations, contact information, 24-hour service numbers and important key city service messages for residents. The annual photo contest encourages citizen involvement and showcases Mankato&rsquo;s quality of life and spaces and places. The top two winning photographs are enlarged, framed and placed on the walls of the Intergovernmental Center. See the <a href="http://mankato-mn.gov/upload/contents/327/2007CalendarFINAL.pdf">2007 calendar</a>. <br /> <br /> For more information contact Mankato&rsquo;s Public Information <a href="mailto:efiedler@city.mankato.mn.us">staff</a> at 387-8692. </p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=11089">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsTue, 02 Oct 2007 09:16:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=10942<img height="150" alt="" hspace="10" width="100" align="left" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/PI/Mark_Knoff.jpg" />Mark Knoff has accepted the City of Mankato&rsquo;s Director of Public Works position. Knoff is a proven leader who enthusiastically believes in continuous improvement for himself and the organizations that he serves. He has significant experience in public works and engineering.City Manager, Patrick Hentges expressed that in his years as a manager rarely has a candidate come with such strong endorsement from past and current colleagues, supervisors and employees. City of Mankato employees who attended candidate presentations had an overwhelmingly positive reaction to Knoff. City staff responded enthusiastically to Knoff&rsquo;s communication style and interpersonal skills. <br /> <br /> Knoff has served as the Public Works Director for the City of Faribault over the past three years. During his tenure there Knoff has managed several key projects including airport capital improvements; emergency backup water treatment plant upgrades; and project management of a new $11 million public works facility, to name just a few. <br /> <br /> Prior to working with the City of Faribault, Knoff served in the United States Air Force for 26 years, advancing to a number of key positions at the United States Air Force Academy. He has served as a Civil Engineering Instructor, Squadron Chief of Training, Chief of Standardization and Evaluation, Deputy for Operations and Operations Officer. He is also currently an engineering instructor at Minnesota State University, Mankato. <br /> <br /> Knoff earned his bachelor&rsquo;s degree in civil engineering from the United States Air Force Academy and his Ph. D. and master&rsquo;s degrees in environmental engineering from Purdue University. <br /> <br /> Knoff will begin his duties on Monday, October 8. He is replacing George Rosati. Rosati is retiring after having served Mankato residents for more than 28 years.<br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=10942">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsFri, 31 Aug 2007 14:06:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=10938<a href="http://www.alltelcenter.com/"><img height="147" hspace="5" width="150" align="left" vspace="5" alt="" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/PI/BlueManGroup_JohnMellencamp.jpg" /></a>Nationally-known performers the Blue Man Group and John Mellencamp will soon take the stage at Mankato&rsquo;s Alltel Center.The <a href="http://www.alltelcenter.com/calendar/evdetails.php3?id=307">Blue Man Group</a>, known for its theatrical shows and concerts that combine music, comedy and multimedia theatrics, brings its &ldquo;How To Be A Megastar Tour 2.1&rdquo; to Mankato on Wednesday, October 17. <a href="http://www.alltelcenter.com/boxoffice.php3">Tickets</a> go on sale Saturday, September 8. <br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.alltelcenter.com/calendar/evdetails.php3?id=311">Mellencamp</a>, known for hit songs including &ldquo;Jack and Diane&rdquo; and &ldquo;Lonely Ol&rsquo; Night,&rdquo; will perform Wednesday, November 7. Mellencamp&rsquo;s broad range of music reflects four decades of recording and performing. <a href="http://www.alltelcenter.com/boxoffice.php3">Tickets</a> go on sale Friday, September 7. <br /> <br /> Don&rsquo;t miss out on all the events happening at the Alltel Center by going online at <a href="http://www.alltelcenter.com">www.alltelcenter.com</a> or signing up for <a href="http://www.alltelcenter.com/mailinglist.php3">EventMail</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br /><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=10938">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsFri, 31 Aug 2007 09:00:04 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=10821Federal notification has been received that the city will receive a $4 million grant to complete the regional airport <a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/PI/Mankato Regional Airport Runway Extension.pdf">runway expansion</a> this&nbsp;year.<p>This funding is in addition to the $3.1 million awarded previously by the State.&nbsp; Mankato's largest runway is being expanded to 6,600 feet long, making it able to accommodate airplanes as large as a 737.&nbsp; Runway reconstruction, drainage improvements and instrument approaches to both ends of the runway are also part of the upgrades.</p> <p>&quot;Funding the airport is critical to the region's well-being,&quot; said Mayor John Brady.&nbsp; &quot;It [regional airport] serves as a hub for private and corporate planes.&nbsp; Businesses, industry and universities all need a quality airport, and it is an important asset in attracting new business to the area.&quot;</p> <p>&quot;The $11 million invested in improvements at the Mankato Regional Airport make it one of the city's best positioned assets for growth,&quot; said Patrick Hentges, City Manager.&nbsp; &quot;The $4 million expedites the much needed extension to the runway to serve an expanding and diversifying industrial/retail base.&quot;</p> <p>Hentges extended special thanks to U.S. Senators Norm Coleman, Amy Klobuchar and U.S. Representative Tim Walz for their efforts toward achieving the $4 million federal grant award.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=10821">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsWed, 08 Aug 2007 16:23:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=10808Those interested in participating in this year&rsquo;s deer hunt must pass a proficiency test for consideration.<p>This test ensures&nbsp;the best of the best are involved in this effort.&nbsp;Call Southern Archery before Monday, September 10 at 625-1897 to schedule a test. The deer hunt begins on Saturday, October 20 and lasts to the end of archery season in December. The purpose of the deer hunt is to cull the deer herd as recommended by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources <br /> <br /> If you are willing to allow a deer stand on your private property within in city limits (in the southern area of Mankato) call 387-8649. <br /> <br /> For more information contact <a href="mailto:epankratz@city.mankato.mn.us">Ed Pankratz</a>, Deputy Director of Public Works, at 387-8659. <br /> </p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=10808">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 06 Aug 2007 15:46:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=10752<p>Mankato made a national list for what makes a community livable:&nbsp; new urbanism, smart growth, mixed-use development and easy-living standards.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img height="281" width="375" alt="" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Bob VanBriesen resided smaller.jpg" /></p> <p>Transit Driver Bob VanBriesen assists a rider in boarding a Mankato bus.</p><p>The &quot;Cities to Watch&quot; list can be used by people looking for a great place to retire--and Mankato is on it!&nbsp; AARP The Magazine, the world's largest circulation magazine, serves the needs and interests of people 50 and over.&nbsp; &quot;The cities we chose are ahead of the curve in providing services for empty nesters, active retirees and everyone in between, and we're thrilled to recognize them for their efforts,&quot; said Steve Slon, editor of AARP The Magazine.&nbsp; The selections were based on specific criteria for what makes a community livable:&nbsp; new urbanism, smart growth, mixed-use development and easy-living standards.</p> <p>Mankato was noted for its efforts to make the community a place where people of all ages want to live.&nbsp; &quot;Lifecycle housing,&nbsp;fostering and facilitating Mankato as a diverse medical center in southern Minnesota and making Mankato livable for young people are all top priorities in the city,&quot; said Patrick Hentges, City Manager.&nbsp; </p> <p>Recently having the Mankato community named as one of the nation's top 100 Best Communities for Young People by America's Promise was also cited&nbsp;as a plus in being named on the &quot;Cities to Watch&quot; list.&nbsp;&nbsp;Caring adults being actively involved with youth, having&nbsp;safe places to learn and grow to get a healthy start toward adulthood and an effective education that builds marketable skills are all criteria used in the 100 Best award.&nbsp; Education is often one of the&nbsp;top considerations&nbsp;when considering to invest or&nbsp;reinvest in&nbsp;the city.&nbsp;</p> <p>AARP The Magazine's selections focus on livable community characteristics in each city including mass transit so residents can drive less, expanded sidewalks to encourage walking, heath care and a wide range of mixed-use housing.&nbsp; These qualities attract members of the 50+ age group, a segment that is good for the economy and expected to grow by more than 30 percent in the next decade.</p> <p>A complete list of the &quot;<a href="http://www.aarpmagazine.org/lifestyle/cities_to_watch.html">Cities to Watch</a>&quot; and the &quot;<a href="http://www.aarpmagazine.org/lifestyle/best_places_2007.html">Best Places to Live</a>&quot; is available online.</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=10752">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 30 Jul 2007 08:11:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=10664<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="200" align="left" summary="" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td><a target="_blank" href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/PI/Rescue team--Tony Mark and Mike large.jpg"><img height="206" alt="" hspace="10" width="300" align="left" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/PI/Rescue team--Tony Mark and Mike.jpg" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td><span class="imgCaption">Corner picture: Tony Talamantez pets Max, the rescued dog. Also pictured are Tony Talamantez, Mark Koch and Mike Gondreau.</span></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> In the 25 years Tony Talamantez, Infrastructure Foreperson, has served the city in public works, he&rsquo;s never seen a dog in a storm drain. Cats, ducklings and small animals have occasionally slipped through the thin grates, but no dogs. Thus, the recent rescue of a black lab from one of Mankato&rsquo;s storm drains was an oddity...<p>...which is probably one of the reasons why local news media from the newspaper, television and radio all covered the story. </p> <p> <table align="right"> <tbody> <tr> <td><script language="JavaScript" type="text/javascript" src="<%=upload_url%>/IT/dogRescue.js"></script></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Infrastructure Technicians Mark Koch and Mike Gondreau were also part of the rescue team. Favorite rescue footage included Gondreau warmly petting the dog before lifting him up to the surface. Julia Gosen, Animal Impound Officer, immediately posted the dog&rsquo;s photograph on Mankato&rsquo;s &ldquo;Lost Pets&rdquo; page at <a href="http://www.ci.mankato.mn.us/lostpets.aspx">www.ci.mankato.mn.us/lostpets.aspx</a> Following excellent media reports, Max was identified by his owners. They were happily reunited the day following his rescue. <br /> <br /> City Manager, Patrick Hentges, congratulated the infrastructure crew who rescued Max from the city storm sewer. He also thanked Public Safety staff for their assistance. <br /> <br /> </p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=10664">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsFri, 13 Jul 2007 09:20:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=10626<p><a href="http://ci.mankato.mn.us/upload/images/2007Calendar.pdf"><img height="129" hspace="10" width="150" align="left" alt="" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/PI/2007-final-calendar-PDF-cov.gif" /></a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Enter Mankato&rsquo;s Calendar Photo Contest for the chance to have your photo featured in the calendar, which is sent to more than 14,000 homes and businesses in Mankato. <br /> <br /> <br /> </p>Photos can win a spot in the top-12 for calendar consideration or as an honorable mention. Winning photographs may also be featured throughout the year in city communication pieces. Grab a camera. Send in entries today and no later than 4:30 p.m., Friday, August 24. Get an <a href="<%=upload_url%>/PI/Photo contest ad.pdf">entry form</a>.<br /> <br /> The Mankato calendar is&nbsp;a 38-year tradition. The&nbsp;annual photo contest encourages citizen involvement and showcases Mankato&rsquo;s quality of life. The contest has grown to more than&nbsp;400&nbsp;entries each year. The top two winning photographs are enlarged, framed and placed on the walls of the Intergovernmental Center. <p>For more information contact <a href="mailto:efiedler@city.mankato.mn.us">Mankato&rsquo;s Public Information Office</a> at 387-8692. <br /> </p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=10626">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsFri, 06 Jul 2007 08:21:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=10604<p>Friday, Mayor John Brady announced it Ryan Carter-Stanley Cup Day in Mankato.&nbsp; &quot;Even though Ryan Carter is from White Bear Lake, Minn., he chose to spend part of his time sharing the Cup in Mankato,&quot; Mayor Brady said, &quot;A very generous gesture.&quot;</p> <p><img height="266" alt="" width="400" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Mankato Mayor John Brady declares Ryan Carter - Stanley Cup Day resized smaller.jpg" /></p> <p>Mankato Mayor John Brady is pictured with Ryan Carter, former Minnesota State University, Mankato Maverick hockey player,&nbsp;and the Stanley Cup.</p><p>The City of Mankato provides the home ice for the Minnesota State University, Mankato Mavericks, through the Midwest Wireless Civic Center.&nbsp; Carter played in this facility during his years as a Maverick hockey player.&nbsp; </p> <p>Other remarks in the Mayor's proclamation included:</p> <ul> <li>Ryan Carter played Minnesota State University, Mankato Maverick hockey from&nbsp;2004-2006.&nbsp; He signed with Anaheim last summer and he became the first former Maverick&nbsp;hockey player to play on a Stanley Cup winning team when the Ducks defeated Ottawa this year to claim the NHL championship.&nbsp; </li> <li>It's been a banner year for Minnesota State University, Mankato athletics.&nbsp; The Mavericks had its highest-ever finish in the Directors' Cup standings with a fourth-place national ranking-emblematic of the department's standing on a national level. </li> <li>Minnesota State University, Mankato claimed the North Central Conference Cup.&nbsp; They had 19 individual All-Americans. </li> <li>44 senior student athletes completed their collegiate careers with&nbsp;cumulative grade point averages of 3.0 or higher and were recognized as Maverick Achievement Award recipients.&nbsp; Spencer Dickenson and Lyndi Decker were selected as Academic All-Americans. </li> </ul> <p>Mayor Brady acknowledged hockey as&nbsp;an asset to youth; and said it was great to see such a large turnout at the Ryan Carter-Stanley Cup Day event in Mankato.</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=10604">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsSun, 01 Jul 2007 17:37:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=10581<p><img height="280" alt="" hspace="10" width="200" align="left" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/PI/Free_falling_delight_by_Allen_Schmidt_Mankato.JPG" />Tourtellotte, 300 Mabel Street, is an outdoor, lifeguard staffed pool.&nbsp; It is Olympic-sized with a separate diving well and wading pool.</p> <p>Pictured is Free Falling Delight, Tourtellotte Pool, by Allen Schmidt, Mankato.&nbsp; It is the June winner in the City Calendar photo contest.&nbsp;</p> <div style="CLEAR: both">&nbsp;<br /> </div><p><a href="http://www.ci.mankato.mn.us/pages.aspx?p_PageAlias=PARKS_TourtellottePool">Tourtellotte Pool</a> opportunities:</p> <ul> <li>Rent the pool for a private party until noon and between 8:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. daily. Rental cost $75 per hour (25 people). </li> <li>Frequent pool goers should consider purchasing a punch pass or season pass for cost savings. </li> </ul> <p>Need swimming lessons? They are available through Mankato Area Public Schools' Community Education and Recreation. Learn more <a href="http://www.mankatocer.com">online</a> or call 387-5501.</p> <p>For more information about Tourtellotte Pool call&nbsp;387-7946 or contact staff in Mankato's <a href="mailto:delling@city.mankato.mn.us">Public Works-Parks Office</a> at 387-8649</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=10581">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsMon, 25 Jun 2007 16:11:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=10527<p> <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="200" summary="" border="1"> <tbody> <tr> </tr> <tr> </tr> </tbody> </table> &nbsp;<img style="WIDTH: 383px; HEIGHT: 267px" height="466" width="700" alt="" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/City Manager greets area resident Phil Staley at the Sibley Park Heritage Plaque installation.jpg" /> <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="200" summary="" border="1"> <tbody> <tr> </tr> <tr> </tr> </tbody> </table> City Manager Pat Hentges greets area resident Phil Staley at the Sibley Park Heritage Plaque installation.&nbsp; Also pictured is Mayor John Brady.&nbsp; Heritage plaques are placed within the community to communicate local history.</p><p>Also available is a new <a href="<%=upload_url%>/Walking Tour FINAL May 30, 2007.pdf">&quot;History City Center Walking Tour and more&quot;</a> print piece.&nbsp; It details key historical sites and Mankato's heritage plaques which communicate local history to citizens and visitors.</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=10527">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsFri, 15 Jun 2007 15:07:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=10436Federal and State funds make needed updates possible <br /> <br /> Mankato is receiving $7.5 million from the Federal Aviation Administration and the Minnesota Department of Transportation-Aeronautics. Funding will be used to extend the Mankato Regional Airport runway to 6,600 feet long, making it able to accommodate aircraft up to a 737-A-19 and 20.In addition, the main runway (15-33) will be completely reconstructed and instrument approaches will be upgraded to both ends of the runway. The project is expected to be complete by late 2008. <br /> <br /> According to George Rosati, Mankato&rsquo;s Director of Public Works, &ldquo;The Mankato Regional Airport is one of the city&rsquo;s best positioned assets for growth.&rdquo; <br /> <br /> For more information contact <a href="mailto:grosati@city.mankato.mn.us">George Rosati</a>, Director of Public Works, at 387-8649. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=10436">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsWed, 30 May 2007 12:52:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=10333<p><img width="181" height="136" align="right" alt="Kiwanis Recreation Area" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/Kiwanis Rec Area Sign.jpg" />Mankato city staff has completed and opened a paved, multi-use pedestrian trail in <a href="http://www.ci.mankato.mn.us/pages.aspx?p_PageAlias=PARKS_KiwanisPark">Kiwanis Recreation Area</a>, Highway 169 North. This trail opening provides a connection from Kiwanis Recreation Area to the Mankato-North Mankato trail along the Minnesota River. <br /> </p>The trail has been designed for bicyclists, roller bladers, walkers, runners and everything non-motorized. The trail also connects to wood chip trails throughout <a href="http://www.ci.mankato.mn.us/pages.aspx?p_PageAlias=PARKS_KiwanisPark">Kiwanis Recreation Area</a>. <br /> <br /> Kiwanis Recreation Area features 100 acres of park space for people to enjoy including seasonal viewing of bald eagles that frequent the area. There is easy access to the Minnesota River for water sport enthusiasts; a dog area for visitors to take their dogs for off-leash recreation and exercise; and an archery practice range. <br /> <br /> For more information contact Mankato Public Works-Parks office at 387-8649.<br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=10333">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsTue, 15 May 2007 16:04:00 GMThttp://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=9013<p> <table cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="200" align="right" summary="" border="1"> <tbody> <tr> <td><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/FeaturedArticles/SibleyParkStoryBook.pdf"><img height="133" alt="A rendering of the Storybook Farm concept in Sibley Park created by I &amp; S Engineers and Architects Inc." width="200" align="right" border="0" src="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/upload/images/FeaturedArticles/lpic.jpg" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Plans are being discussed to move toward a Storybook Farm concept in Sibley Park. One of the goals of this concept is to give children an opportunity to experience a farm setting and interact with these animals through a variety of displays and activities.</p> <p>&quot;Children may not have the opportunity to go to a farm setting that they've read about in their storybooks,&quot; said Tom Severns, Parks and Forestry Supervisor.</p><p>The proposed plan includes a three-step phased development of the farm. The first phase, funded by the Park development fund and donations, focuses on the creation of two animal buildings, a pond and a playground area. As this space continues to grow and evolve, staff hopes to add more activity areas that include an amphitheater, play house, maze or play space in the second phase of the project. The third phase involves the development of a welcome building to host programming and recreation activities.</p> <p>&quot;The last two phases are dependent on community desires and support,&quot; Severns said.</p> <p>Discussions are still taking place, and staff hopes to begin moving from the concept stage to more in-depth planning on the site layout. The new Sibley Storybook Farm is expected to open sometime next year.</p> <p>For more information contact <a href="mailto:tseverns@city.mankato.mn.us">Tom Severns</a>, Parks and Forestry Supervisor, at 387-8646.</p><br /><a href="http://www.mankato-mn.gov/feature.aspx?storyID=9013">View Article</a>City of Mankato NewsFri, 23 Feb 2007 10:36:00 GMT