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Lifelong residents watch homestead giveway
By ZAC WORTMAN
Suburbs today are characteriz-
ed by shopping malls, giant
movie theaters and houses that
seem to be built in a day or two.
And Eagan, where housing
developments spring up faster
than new traffic signals, is no ex-
ception. An empty pasture today
might be a neighborhood filled
with new residents next spring.
People move here to enjoy the
quality of life in a place that con-
tained only cornfields and open
space 25 years ago. These new
residents can be excused for not
knowing much about the history
of Eagan because so many of the
people and places are gone now.
A last outpost of living history re-
mains in this community,
however, at the intersection of
Cliff Road and Highway 3.
On the south side of Cliff and on
the opposite side of the lake, Otto
and Ella Holz live as they have
for the past 80 years. Stepping in-
side their yellow, two-story far-
mhouse is like walking into a dif-
ferent world. The kitchen con-
tains a huge round oak table and
a wood -burning stove. purchased
new in 1937. Against one wall an
old radio hums out the news from
dawn until bedtime as it has for
so many years. Against another
wall stands one of the Holzes' few
extravagances: a modern
refrigerator freezer.
Another modern convenience,
the bathroom, was constructed
when indoor plumbing was in-
stalled many years ago. A toilet
was not added until the early
1970s.
Photo by RoxAnne Kruger
OTTO AND Ella Holz relaxed in their kitchen last
week as they celebrated their 81st birthday.
The house itself is actually
younger than Otto. He was born
Otto Julius Holz Jr. on Nov. 25,
1906, in a house that stood just 50
yards from their current home,
which was built five years later.
Having lived there all of his
life, Otto is reluctant to leave his
property much these days. When
he is not shuffling around doing
his chores, he spends much of his
time on a large, overstuffed
couch in the living room.
He sits on his couch and keeps
in touch with the world by listen-
ing to the radio, watching a small
black -and -white TV and by
reading newspapers. He sits,
with his white hair combed
straight back, hawk -like nose and
squinted eyes, ready to comment
on anything in an accented voice
in which the number 30,000 comes
out sounding like "tirty tousand."
Otto usually reserves his com-
ments for when humor is needed
or when he thinks his wife is
wrong 'which is often), leaving
Ella to tell the stories of his youth
conveyed to her by his mother.
"When they were building the
house, the carpenters found out
that there were fish in the lake,"
she said in a young, high-pitched
voice that belies her age. "After
that, they spent more time
fishing than building." When the
house was finally finished. Otto's
family moved in, and he has lived
there ever since.
Ella Adeline Trapp was born
Nov. 17, 1907, 357 days after her
husband. "Otto says 1 can be boss
for the eight days we are the
same age, but after that he's
boss.•• He may be boss, but that
doesn't mean that he does all the
work, and it shows. Ella walks
with considerable difficulty now.
but she is a large woman and in
no way frail. Even at 80 one can
easily picture her doing farm
work in the past.
The Holzes attended Trinity
Lone Oak school, walking of
course, through waist -deep snow
every day, uphill both ways.
Earlier, Otto had attended a
school that stood near the current
site of Northview Elementary.
In those days Otto started runn-
ing a trap line, something he still
does today. He vividly
remembers the day that he
caught his first skunk. "It smell-
ed bad, but I took it out of the trap
anyway and washed my hands in
the snow. I couldn't smell
nothing, so I just went to school.
But as soon as I walked in. the
teacher said, '1 think we'll excuse
you today, Otto.' •'
When asked about their wed•
ding, Otto just glances at Ella
with a mischievous look and asks
"When were you married'" Ella
then explains, with obvious ex-
asperation. that "He's not in on
this. It's just my deal." Their
marriage was "Ella's wedding,"
and their 50th anniversary
celebration back in 1983 was
"Ella's party." All the while Otto
sits on his couch with a look of
smug satisfaction. He does
recall, however, that they had
four barrels of 3.2 beer at the
wedding reception - just a short
time after Prohibition was lift
ed.
They were married May s1.
1933, right in the depths of the
Great Depression. The effects of
the economy on them were not as
great as one would think with one
exception. According to Otto,
desirable brides were few and far
between in those days. "I had to
take what 1 could get at the
time," he said with a grin.
"We always had enough"to eat
on the table, and we had a nice
warm bed to sleep in at night.
What more could we want'" she
asked. "We always lived by sim-
ple means, only buying what we
absolutely had to have. We did
everything the hard way, and we
made a go of it."
They certainly did. Ella moved
in with the Holz family im•
mediately after they married.
His parents soon retired, built a
new house and split the land bet
ween their sons, Otto Jr. and
Hugo. When the Depression end-
ed, Otto and Ella owned the house
and 97 acres stretching across
either side of Cliff Road.
Although the Holzes raised
corn, oats, barley and potatoes
through the years. none of the
produce was ever sold as cash
crops. It was all put back into the
Proposal continued from front
sented two sets of plans at every
neighborhood gathering and
every public meeting."
tie added that the developers
have "worked very hard with city
staff to make this the best poss-
ible center." Hoffman explained
that his group had "made several
revisions and modifications.
keeping in mind everybody's
needs."
The changes that have sparked
so much debate include changing
the complex layout. The entire
center, as newly proposed. is now
lying within a commercially zon-
ed area. Initially, the developers
had wanted to use property par-
tially zoned mulliresidential for
the center.
The new configuration also
pushes the center back into the
Eagan Hills West neighborhood,
where residents have vehemently
opposed the development.
Revistd plans also call fOr re-
ducing the retail shopping area
by about 40,000 square feet.
Another significant change pro-
posed is to eliminate the use of
('lift Lake as a ponding area. A
separate drainage pond will he
constructed in another part of the
development. relieving concern
about damaging the quality of
water in the lake.
Though the same environment-
al, traffic. safety and zoning con•
cerns have surfaced countless
times in four public meetings,
commission members said they
felt "pressured to make a deci-
sion" on the revised plan.
"This is a major project that
will not only impact the border-
ing neighborhood, but the city of
Eagan in the long run," Voracek
said. "I find it very difficult to act
favorably on this given the time
restraints."
McCrea voiced similar con-
cerns, stating that she had re-
ceived updated background infor-
mation just 24 hours before the
meeting
"I feel extremely insulted that
we're asked to make a decision
on such an important issue when
all of us had no more than 24
hours to prepare."
She added that she felt "inept
in representing the community"
because she was given so little
time to review the material. "I
feel real uncomfortable making
any decision tonight, but if I'm
forced to, I can't approve this."
Gustafson also sided with Vora-
cek and McCrea, slating that the
APC and council would have had
plenty of lime in the past five
months to discuss existing con•
cerns "if the developers had ad-
dressed them appropriately."
"The developers do have a
legal right to develop 60 plus
acres on this site." Gustafson
continued, "but they do not have
the right to congest traffic.
severely impact the environment
and the community, and en-
danger the safety of children at-
tending Rahn Elementary
School . "
Hoffman said he is "puzzled"
to hear the APC say it hasn't had
adequate time to review the
plans. "We have granted the city
three extensions, continuing the
discussion past the deadline set
down in the city's ordinance," he
said.
"Mr. Gustafson clearly pointed
out that we have 60 acres of com-
mercially zoned land that is ours
to legally develop." Hoffman
said. "1f the city doesn't allow us
to fully develop when we have a
signed agreement (a planned de-
velopment agreement i it appears
the city's not living up to our
agreement."
Though Hoffman is hesitant to
comment on what his group will
do if the council denies the plans
Dec. 1, he did say: "Our alterna-
tives have been hinted al before. • •
Hoffman did state on Nov. 28.
the day after the APC denied the
original plans, that if the site was
denied there will be "a very
large, very expensive lawsuit and
we're 1.00 percent comfortable
we'll win."
Cif last week's action, Hoffman
said: "We have fully complied
with our end of the planned devel-
opment agreement: I think the
city should live up to their end of
the bargain."
Advisory council to
The Community Education Ad
visory Council of Independent
School District 196 will hold its
next meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 8
at the district office, 14445 Dia-
mond Path, Rosemount. The
meeting will start at 7 p.m. The
meet Dec. 8
agenda will include department
reports, council committee re-
ports and 1987-88 goals. The
public is invited to attend.
For more information, call
JoAnne Ellison at 423-9420.
O'CON NOR & HANNAN
ATTORNEYS AT LAW
HAVE YOU SEEN
INJURED?
• Autcxrnlhilc Accident • Defective Products
• \Xiniters (.ompeasation • No-fault Claims
Whatever your personal injury claim, be sure you recover
c%•etything to which you're legally entitled And he sure •t'ou
contact an attorney with expertise in personal injury cases.
Contact:
CHUCK HALBERG or VAN HOLSTON
at the Burnsville Eagan Office
(612) 894-0246
There is never a charge for consultation
0 CON NOR 6. HANNAN
OaI
12486 Portland Ave. 9w. Sails 126, rlurury Do. MN 66267
(61216644266
to developers
farm as feed for hoses. cattle.
chickens and other livestock.
Their only sources of income
were a small herd of dairy cattle
and a weekly egg route, Their
dairy production ended several
years ago when small operations
became Tess profitable. but the
Nolzes maintained the egg route
until quite recently.
On their egg route the Holzes
drove north along Highway 3 into
West SI. Paul. stopping in
neighborhoods and delivering
eggs to individual homes. Their
business grew by word of mouth.
At the peak of their business the
Holies had about 100 customers
and delivered as many as 40
dozen eggs to one tavern. Income
earned on the egg route was used
to buy groceries. "If you didn't
have many eggs one week, you
didn't have many groceries,"
Ella said.
Other than groceries, the
Holies didn't buy much of
anything. One major purchase
was a tractor to replace their
horse-drawn farm equipment. Ot-
to bought his International trac-
tor new in 1940. It is still going
strong, original tires and all. "I
called down for parts the other
day. and the parts man couldn't
believe we still had il," Ella said.
During the late 1960s and early
1970s, the Holzes sold the last of
their cropland and more or less
retired from farming. With pro-
perty saxes increasing all the
time. they decided to sell the land
north of Cliff Road first. This pro-
perly was quickly developed into
the South Oaks neighborhood.
Three years later. the Holzes
decided That They only needed the
land containing the house. barn
and garden, so they sold the rest
of the properly and the lake south
of Cliff Road.
This land was farmed for many
years until being considered for
development in 1986. This first
plan was abandoned when South
Oaks residents voiced strong op-
position to a commercial zone al
the corner of Cliff Road and
Highway 3. This relieved the
Ilolzes very much. "They wanted
to put a cul-de-sac in our front
yard, right about where the wind-
mill is," Ella said.
11 didn't take long for a new
developer to come along, how-
ever. and construction has
already started on a new develop-
ment of single-family homes call-
ed Manor lake Estates. Although
the land immediately surroun-
ding the Holzes will not be devel-
oped until "we're carried out or
until we give in." they still don't
approve of the construction. "We
don't like to see our farm go up in-
to houses," Ella said. The land
isn't really theirs, of course. but
to them it always will be. "We
stopped at the mailbox the other
day, and I looked there and seen
all the big machinery silting
there," Ella said. "I got a big
lump down in my stomach."
But Otto and Ella don't want to
seem too old-fashioned. At a city
council meeting. Ella said that
"he a the developer, said we're
both over 90 years old, and we're
the kind of people that don't want
to see progress."
They object to being character-
ized that way, hut they also ob-
ject to some types of housing
developments. They don't like to
Photo by RoxAnne Kruger
THE HOLZES maintain a portion of their original homestead, but land developers
are encroaching.
see developments that have
houses packed too closely toge-
ther. "Some places you can reach
out the window and shake hands
with the next house," Ella said.
The llolzes also have some
regrets about the development of
Eagan in a broad sense. "The
scenic places are all gone now.
All the trees are gone," Otto said.
/laving more people in Eagan
also means that the Holzes have
more friends than ever, literally
hundreds of them. Hardly a day
passes when someone doesn't
stop by just to say, "Hello, how
are you doing?" They have a
tradition that whoever enters the
house has to put his or her name
on that day on the calendar. Dur-
ing the busiest month to date the
Holzes had 119 visitors. "and that
doesn't include the people that
didn t come inside." Otto noted.
During the summer. many of
the visitors stop by to ask about
their massive garden.
Otto and Ella know that some-
day they will be gone, as will
their yellow house with its stain-
ed glass. antique furniture and
fine woodwork.
'The developer has first rights
to buy their property, something
he must do before development of
the land can be completed. But
don't count them out just yet.
Even though the rest of "their"
land is being developed, they are
going to hang on to what they
have. "He wants us out of here
because it would be easier to
develop," Ella said. "No way are
we going."
Why should they? In the next
year or two they will have hun-
dreds of new neighbors. which
means the possibility of hundreds
of new friends. That means that
they have to keep the garden up
and the house should be painted
and....
EDITOR'S NOTE: Zac
Wortman, a former Eagan
resident. is a journalism
student at the University of
Minnesota.
church
Two events set at Mary, Mother
A concert for children and a
Christmas arts and crafts fair
will be held this weekend at
Mary, Mother of the Church, 3333
Cliff Rd., Burnsville.
The Sunshine Band, featuring
Michael Otte, Julie Barach and
Bruce Menier, will perform two
shows Saturday, Dec. 5 at 1 and
2:15 p.m.
470
•
•
The arts and crafts fair will be
from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturday
and from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sun-
day, Dec. 6. More than 50 partici-
pants will be selling small gift
items, handmade crafts and bak-
ed goods. Proceeds will go to the
Community Action Council pro-
gram Armful of Love.
4 •
Cedar Ridge
plans bazaar
Cedar Ridge Christian Church,
2024 Rahn Way, Eagan, will host
a Christmas boutique and bake
sale Saturday, Dec. 5 from 9
a.m.-5 p.m.
Free coffee and cider will be
served. For more information,
call 688-0246.
TOYS FROM SANTA
K
•
REALTOR
COLLECTION
DEPOT
•
Berean Baptist
to host speaker
on teen-age suicide
A nationally' known authority
and speaker on the subject of teen
suicide and problems of contem-
porary youth will speak at
Berean Baptist Church. Burn•
sville, Dec. 2.
Jerry Johnson will make a
special one-night appearance at
the church to discuss the emo-
tionally charged issue of teen
suicide. The event is free to the
public.
The church is located at 309 E.
Co. Rd. 42, Burnsville. For more
information, call the church at
432-7168.
Hosanna moves
back to church
Hosanna Lutheran Church.
15601 Maple Island Rd., Burns-
ville, will hold two worship ser-
vices in its new 500-seal sanctu-
ary at 8:30 and 11 a.m. Sunday.
Dec. 6. There will be trumpets,
choirs and a celebration of Holy
Communion.
Winter quarter of Sunday
school for 3-year-olds through
grade 12 will also begin that day
in the new education wing.
Hosanna was holding Sunday
morning activities al Lakeville
High School during construction
of the addition. Dedication cere-
monies are scheduled for Feb. 7.
Aglow Fellowship
will meet Dec. 8
Women's Aglow Fellowship
will meet Tuesday, Dec. 8 at 9:15
a.m. at Richfield Bank & Trust.
14201 Grand Ave., Burnsville.
The program will include a free
holiday brunch and special
Christmas music.
Baby-sitting is available for a
nominal fee at Prince of Peace
Lutheran Church. For informa-
lion. call 890-1553.
Berean women
to hold breakfast
Berean Baptist Church's
Women to Women Ministries will
hold a Chrsitmas breakfast
Saturday, Dec. 5 from 8:30 to 11
a.m. in the Garden Court of the
Radisson South Hotel, 7800 Nor-
mandale Blvd.. Bloomington.
The annual breakfast is design-
ed to give participants a mean-
ingful perspective of Christmas.
For information and reserva-
tions. call the church at 432-7168.
Shepherd students
to perform program
"The Value of Advent" will be
presented Wednesday. Dec. 2 al 7
p.m. by the children of Good
Shepherd Lutheran School, 1301
E. Co. Rd. 42, Burnsville.
For information, call the school
al 432-5527.
Attending the bri . e were.
Eunice Hoivanen, matron of
honor and sister of the bride:
Gayle Tempest. personal alien
dant.
Attending the bridegroom
were, WilliamZaier, best man:
Scott Felker and Icon Smith.
ushers.
The bride is a graduate of Far-
mington High School and Alexan-
lria Area Vocational Technical
nstitute. She is employed by
C»espateh Ind.. Minneapolis.
The groom is a graduate of
Parkland High School, Allen -
own, PA, and the University of
Virginia, Charlottesville, VA. He
s employed by Prudential In-
urance Co., Minneapolis.
A reception at the home of the
ride and groom followed the
:eremony.
Following a wedding trip to
orthern Minnesota, the couple
esides in Minneapolis.
der
IF -
ohnson - Hawkins
Diane Sue Johnson and Robert
lohn Hawkins were married Aug-
ti, 1980, al Rosemount United
telhodist Church. 'Hie ceremony
PAGE 2C
DAKOTA COU
FAMILY LIFE
.41e.
Bunde - Werley
Arlis Mae Runde and Myron
Hoy Werley were married Sept.
20. 1980 at Gloria Dei Lutheran
Church, Minneapolis. Rev. Peter
J. Sestak officiated.
Parents of the couple are Mrs.
Hazel Runde. Farmington. and
Mr. and Mrs. Roy Werley, Allen
was performed by Dr. Thurman
('oss.
Parents of the couple are Em-
mett and Susan Johnson of Apple
Valley and John and Jo Hawkins
of Rosemount.
Jill Johnson, sister of the bride.
was maid of honor. Bridesmaids
were Mary and Sheila Hawkins,
sisters of the groom. Mary Fried-
mann, and Pam Hatteberg.
Junior bridesmaid was Jane
Hawkins, also a sister of the
groom.
The best man was Cary
Wenzel. Groomsmen were David,
Tom. and Pat Hawkins. brothers
of the groom. and Warren
Johnson, brother of the bride.
Flower girl was Renee
Hawkins, and ring bearer was
Joshua Trebil, a niece and
ne wphew of the groom.
The ushers were Darrell
Judkins and Brad Fossand.
Kim Jones and Jeanne Engelk-
ing were the bride's personal at-
tendants.
Music was provided by
organist Dawn 1)ihIey. Solos were
by Julie Rentz. A scripture was
read by Steve Hawkins, brother
ul the groom.
"Me recept ion and dance were
held .ii the Officers' Club at Fort
Snellirig
The couple is residing in St.
Heidi Nelson, niece of the
groom. East Bethel, served as
flower girl. Clint Allen, nephew of
the bride, Coates, was ring
bearer.
Ushers included Duane Allen,
Wanamingo; and Peter Berg.
brother of the bride. Rosemount.
Music was provided by singer
Karen Mogen, Coates; and
organist Cindy Brax, Rosemount.
A reception at the church, and
a dance at Coates' Tavern follow-
ed the ceremony.
The couple resides in Winnipeg,
Manitoba,
7
Stensrud-Svendsen
Desiree Dale Slensrud and
Keith Stuart Svendsen were mar -
'I i
....mods>sa;:a
SANFORD MEMORIAL
HOSPITAL, FARMINGTON
FLEMING—Boy born to Mr.
and Mrs. Craig Fleming, Rose-
mount, Oct. 27, 1980 at Sanford
Memorial Hospital.
MARTIN —Girl born to Mr. and
Mrs. Gerald Martin, Farm-
ington, Nov. 2, 1980 at Sanford
Memorial Hospital.
DIBBLE —Boy bogn to Mr. and
Mrs. Norman Dibble, Farm-
ington, Nov. 5, 1980 at Sanford
Memorial Hospital.
HILLIUS—Girl born to Mr. and
Mrs. Jerome Hillius, Apple
Valley, Nov. 6, 1980 at Sanford
Memorial Hospital.
KUEHNE--Girl born to Mr. and
Mrs. Bruce Kuehne, Farmington,
Nov. 7, 1980 at Sanford Memorial
Hospital.
ADAMSKI—Boy born to Mr.
and Mrs. Rick Adamski, New
Ulm, Nov. 7, 1980 at Sanford
Memorial Hospital. The boy was
named Jeremy Christopher.
Grandparents are Mr. and Mrs.
Herb Swedin Jr., Farmington;
and Mr. and Mrs. George Adam -
ski, Elk River
PETERS --Girl born to Mr. and
Mrs. Greg Peters, Farmington,
Nov. 9, t980 at Sanford Memorial
Hos . ital ..
O4-so1'/t Co.NTV —13��a
Met Council - Eagan controversy continues
By JUDY STRACHAN
Staff Writer
EAGAN The city council -
Metropolitan Council controver-
sy regarding the amendment pro-
cess for the Comprehensive Land
Use Guide Plan continues. At the
council meeting Wednesday,
Nov. 5, the members discussed
the 14-page check list that the
Met Council is proposing for any
change in the city comprehensive
plan.
Tom Hedges, city ad•
ministrator, said that in a check
back over the past few months of
city business, "we would have to
add another staff member just to
take care of the Met Council if
this proposal is passed."
"That's just unreasonable,"
said Mayor Bea Blomquist.
The council members agreed,
that they had approved of the
concept of the Proposal Three at
a recent meeting, "but if the Met
,Council thinks this 14-pager is
proposal three, that's
ridiculous," said council member
Tom Egan. Mark Parranto, cow
cil member, said "1 guess
everybody knows there is no love
lost between the Met Council
demands and me. Let's fight it
with our best shot."
Hedges reminded the council
that the proposal goes to the
development committee Nov. 13
and to the Met Council Dec. 18.
"After that we'll have 30 days to
coordinate this, and 1 just think
that is unrealistic."
"1 think we have the total sup-
port from our neighbors," said
Ted Wachter, council member.
"Let's live by the adage that
united we stand, divided we fall."
The council approved sending a
letter to the Met Council in op-
position of the proposal.
In other action, the council ap-
proved a new fence between the
Anthony Caponi property and
Patrick Eagan Park. Caponi said
that the fence was installed in
1979 with the posts upside down.
and that it was not stretched suf-
ficiently. The city administrator
and Ken Vraa, park and recrea-
tion department director, had
looked at the fence and determin-
ed that it was not repairable.
Parranto moved that the fence
he replaced with a correct fence
installed by professionals. -
Wachter suggested that some of
the fence must be salvageable.
Vraa said that the fence, during
installation, had been cut and
welded in too many places to
repair, but that the pieces could
be used in other nursery land-
scaping projects. Parranto
reiterated that the city should
make good on their agreement
and install a proper fence, and
stay on the property line as much
as possible. The motion was ap-
proved 4-1, with Wachter saying
that the council should look at it
first.
CONTINUED the award of bid
for the Silver Bell/Wuthering
Heights utilities until a
neighborhood meeting could be
held.
APPROVED the bids and
awarded a contract to Allied
Painting for the renovation of the
,500,000 gallon reservoir repain-
ting. The council approved an ad-
ditional cost of $1.000 to paint the
city's name three times on the
reservoir. The council had con-
sidered painting the logo of the
lone oak tree also, but dropped
the idea due to the cost.
AUTHORIZED the staff to find
another use for the LAWCON
grant. and to build a temporary
trailway from the PDQ to Berry
Ridge Rd. in an effort to save
lives, at the expense of the city or
the PDQ store.
APPROVED a 3.2 beer and
bingo license for the Knights of
Columbus for Nov. 16.
APPROVED a temporary beer
License for St. John Neumann
Parish for a dance Nov. 15.
APPROVED the plans and
specifications for the I-494/1.35E
interchange.
APPROVED consideration to
order the improvement and
streets in the Twin View Manor
Addition.
APPROVED deferment for
seven years of special
assessments for Erick
Erickstrup. The deferment was
for seven years, or until the land
is platted, subdivided, or sold.
APPROVED the preliminary
plat for Coachman Oaks Second
Addition.
I CONTINUED the special per-
mit for Paul Griebel for a wind
generated power unit.
CONTINUED the final plat for
Cedarview Addition.
CONTINUED the appoint-
ments to the sign committee for
staff study and contract.
APPROVED the utility bids for
the Windcrest, Windtree and
Duckwood Trail Additions.
APPROVED the final plat for
Ridgecliffe Fourth and Fifth Ad-
ditions.
APPROVED the rezoning of
Ridgecliffe Fourth Addition.
APPROVED the variance for
lost coverage for Man Rogers.
APPROVED the variance for
'setback and lot coverage for
'Harlan Skoglund.
CONTINUED the final resolu-
tion for industrial revenue financ-
ing for Carson Pirie Scott and
Comuanv.
APPROVED the EAW
worksheet and recommend to the
Environmental Quality Board
that a negative declaration be
determined and that no EIS state-
ment be required for the Univac
expansion program.
RECEIVED the petition and
ordered the preparation of a
feasibility report for the O'Leary
Lake storm sewer outlet.
HEARD and discussed the
design for the Dakota County
Central Library proposal in
Eagan.
CONTINUED the extension of
assessment for streets and
utilities in the Brittany Second
and Third Additions for a study of
the financial benefit to the city.
DISCUSSED the procedure for
regulating agenda items at city
council meetings. and determin-
ed that the administrator should
place items on the agenda by
estimation of time consumption.
APPROVED studies of traffic
flow and lighting at Seneca,
Nichols, Hwy. 13 at Silver Bell,
and at Beau de Rue and Rahn Rd.
NOTED the "atrocious resur-
facing job done on Pilot Knob.
There will be accidents there,"
said Wachter. He suggested the
county or the city remove it.
AUTHORIZED quotes and pur-
chase of two snow plows for city
pickups for snowplowing duty
this winter. Tom Colbert, public
works director, told the council
that the city plowed 85 miles of
streets last year, and 9.5 miles
have been added for this year,
phis an additional 40 cul-de-sacs.
He noted that the schedule pushes
the manpower and equipment to
the limit. "1f one man is sick, or
one piece breaks down, we won't
be able to complete a plowing in
one work schedule," said Colbert.
He asked the council to approve
the purchase of the additional
plows to alleviate part of that pro-
blem. He also asked for a policy
on priority of street plowing and
trail plowing.
3'IQ'8'7 'i9FL5 STAB
Eagan will lend money
at no interest to make
home down payments
By Rob Hotakainen
Staff Writer
If S40 million in below -market hous-
ing money isn't enough to lure buy-
ers to Dakota County. the city of
Eagan is ready to sweeten the pot by
lending no -interest money to help
make down payments.
"Housing is getting more and more
expensive." said Tom Hedges, Ea-
gan's city administrator. "This is one
way Eagan can provide an incentive
to a first-time home buyer."
Housing officials expect strong de-
mand for the interest -free loans,
which must be paid back when the
house is sold_
"It's the first time we've been able to
offer down payment assistance. We
have had close to 100 calls already,"
said Mark Ulfers, executive director
of the Dakota County Housing &
Redevelopment Authonty (HRA) in
Rosemount, which will administer
the program.
The Eagan City Council voted March
3 to set aside 5300,000 in the down
payment fund, Hedges said. The
money is left over from a single-
family housing bond issued in 1980.
"It just seemed right that it go back
into housing," said Council member
Jim Smith. "It's helping a segment of
the population that would not be able
to get in. We want to provide a mix
of housing for a mix of people."
But others question why Eagan, with
a population of 35,300, needs to offer
more incentives at a time when the
city is growing faster than any other
in Minnesota.
"I don't know whether it's necessary
or not," said Council member Vic
Ellison. "1 thought the lower interest
rates were enticing enough."
Under the program, eligible buyers in
Eagan may receive loans of up to 3
percent of the mortgage as aid in
making the down payment, Ulfers
said. A down payment of at least 5
percent of the mortgage is generally
required to buy a house, he said.
As an example, a $100,000 mortgage
generally would require a down pay-
ment of at least $5,000. With the
down payment assistance, however, a
buyer could borrow S3,000 from the
city and then pay only S2,000, plus
closing costs, to purchase a house.
Ulfers said.
The money is expected to be avail-
able in late April or early May, the
same time when S40 million in be-
low -market loan money for mon-
gages will hit the market.
The S40 million will be used to fi-
nance an estimated 520 loans. The
program can operate for up to three
years, but Ulfers said he expects de-
mand to deplete the entire allocation
before 1988.
Funding comes from a state alloca-
tion in which Dakota County re-
ceived $30 million from the Minne-
sota Housing Finance Agency in Oc-
tober. The pot will be split equally
among Apple Valley. Hastings and
the entire county. The county earlier
had received an allocation of S10
Fagan continued on page 9Y
Eagan
Continued from page 11
million for Eagan. Ulfers said_
To be eligible, a family's adjusted
gross income cannot exceed S38,610,
but a deduction of S750 for each
adult and $500 for each child is al-
lowed_ For example. a family of two
adults and one child could earn up to
S40,610 and still qualify. (Income
limits are expected to be lower for the
first six months of the program, but
those guidelines have yet to be set.
Ulfers said.)
People seeking the low -interest mon-
ey must have a purchase agreement
for the house before they apply for a
loan. Eligible homes are single-family
detached homes. condominiums and
townhouses. Other multiple -family
buildings and mobile homes are not
eligible.
To qualify. new homes cannot be
priced higher than $95,130. Existing
homes cannot cost more than
S96.210.
He envisions fur"nmg
hill into sculpture that
combines art, nature
13) Rub Hotikainen
Staff W n ter
The bronze panels set into the
bottom of a knoll in Eagan are part
..,f Anthony Caponi's outdoor world
of art and serenity.
The four -foot panels, depicting
buried ruins, animate the landscape
and suggest an archaeological
excavation. Visitors get the
impression that the entire hillside is
filled with bodies, the remnants of
an ancient tragedy.
For Caponi, chairman of the art
department at Macalester College in
St. Paul. turning a hill into a
sculpture combines an and nature
in a way that no museum can.
The entire landscape would become
a wort of an under Caponi's plan to
transform 20 acres of his property in
the heart of Eagan into a city ppa.rrkk
the Caponi Sculpture Gardens.
The rolling hills and trees would
come alive with sculptures to sit on
and sculptures to walk on, with
sculptures of bronze and stone, of
earth and concrete.
"I'm shaping the earth into
sculptures," said Caponi, 65. "Art or
beaus) should anse spontaneously
from a natural environment. 1 don't
want to separate the beauty of
nature from man-made beauty.
Why separate it' An should blend
normally with people's everyday
activity."
The exact manner in which art and
nature will blend in the park lies
with Capon], who is out to turn his
personal vision and private labor -
of -love into a public resource.
Only one point appears clear. The
sculptural gardens will bear no
resemblance to an indoor an
museum.
"Museums started to take care of
orphaned art," he said. "There's
something wrong about
manufacturing orphans. You don't
k,tpart in,a warehouse. It's
something you live with. You
cannot teach appreciation of art by
causing people to file past a hundred
pieces of art and expect them to
look in-depth at anything."
While the park is early in its
planning stages, city officials have
already asked that a consultant be
hired to consider whether a
foundation should be established to
operate the proposed gardens.
And, faced with rapid development,
the city must move quickly, said
Ken Vraa, director of parks and
Statt Photo by Duane Braley
Anthony Capone, art department chairman at Macalester College in St. Paul, proposes landscaped sculpture gardens et his home in Eagan.
recreation.
"If we wait any longer, there isn't
going to be an opportunity to do it,"
he said. "We're trying to keep this
thing moving along_"
The proposed site is north of Difiley
Rd., between Pilot Knob Rd. and
Lexington Av., next to a 105-acre
city park. Caponi has owned the
land since 1950.
Under Caponi's plans, artists -in -
residence would apply for grants
and work as apprentices at the new
park and students would be allowed
to work for school credit. A
sculpture studio is being built there.
Caponi and city officials must still
negotiate a purchase pnce and how
the park would be maintained and
organized, Vraa said.
No timetable has been set for the
park's opening but, if the Eagan City
Council approves the project, work
could begin by the end of summer
or next spring, Vraa said. 1t would
take two to three years before the
park would be in full operation.
is among five students from the
United States chosen to attend the
conference.
The two -week program will focus
on leadership training and will
include a study of other cultures.
Twenty-six countries will be
represented at the seminar.
"As marketing director, my job is
to chair the meetings of the
committee and to prepare members
for marketing calls," Samuelson
said.
A two-hour training session is held
each week. Members learn about
the program, develop sales
techniques and approaches to make
marketing calls to arca
corporations.
"We take requests for jobs from
students and match them with a job
description offered by one of the
participating companies." said
Samuelson.
The students arrange their own
transportation to the country they
choose, but AISEC helps them find
work, a place to live. transportation
while in town and plans social
vca7-7 , 7-7CRITI rvvr1pTv tit d..
Vick Samuelson, center background, is flanked by three of her co-workers; from left, Carla Piazza, Carol
Haugan (on telephone) and Greg Blesi.
events.
This year, AISEC has found
internships for students in Japan,
India and Sweden, among others.
C'ompanies that have participated
include IBM, General Mills and
Control Data.
"No one is involved to make
money," said Samuelson.
"Everyone is just excited to
experience a different country and
learn about their culture."
The committee meets each Monday
at 4 p.m. in Room 235 of Blegen
Hall, on the West Bank of the
University of Minnesota campus.
Anyone interested is welcome.
2 win Scout honors
Norman Lee Jr. of South St. Paul
and Patnck Gagnon of West St.
Paul recently received the Eagle
Scout badge, the highest rank in the
Boy Scout advancement program.
Lee is a member of Troop 95
sponsored by the St. Augustine's
Church Men's Club. He is involved
as an assistant scoutmaster and
U.S. Army medical specialist. For
his project Lee designed and built
nine display modules for
Washington Elementary School in
South St. Paul, which focuses on
creative arts.
Gagnon is a member of Troop 228
sponsored by St. Michael's Church.
For his project he planned.
organized and gave leadership to a
food dnve through St. Michael's
Church to benefit Neighbors, Inc.
Horticulture winners
Mitch Prokop of Rosemount was a
first -place team member in the
display board competition at the
Minnesota Environment.
Agricultural Resources Technology
Horticulture conference in
Brainerd. Other winners include:
Randy Ryder of Rosemount placed
second in weeds, trees and turf
competition; Randy Thompson of
Lakeville, Anne Mane Coon of
Eagan and Tim Sullivan of
Farmington were first -place team
members in the Design II
competition.
Leprechaun helpers
The Rosemount Leprechaun Days
Committee is seeking new members
to help plan and implement this
year's community festival in July.
The committee will meet at 7 p.m.
April 1 in the Rosemount City Hall
council chamber, 2875 W. I45th St.
The festival will include parades,
contests and sporting events. For
information on committee
membership call the Rosemount
Area Chamber of Commerce at
423-1800.
Community welcomes entries from
the public for this column. Please
mail or deliver to:
Community News/
People Column
Minneapolis Star and Tribune
St. Paul Bureau
Suite 275. Lowry Building
355 N. Wabasha
St. Paul. Minn. 55102
Calendar of events
ommunity events that are open to the
ublic will be considered for the celeri-
ac Items must be submitted in writing
0 days before publication. Please
it or deliver to:
Community News
Minneapolis Star and Tribune
425 Portland Av. S.
Minneapolis, Minn. 55488
Burnsville
Tuesday/March 24
Early and periodic screening clinics
are being offered to Dakota County
residents aged 6 months to 21 years
old Tuesdays and Thursdays at loca-
tions rotating between Burnsville,
Lakeville, Hastings and South St. Paul.
}iwannr w1 n, f
Saturday/March 21
The Beckes Puppeteers will present a
puppet show at 2 p.mat the Eagan
Library, 1340 Wescott Rd. Free. Call
452-9600 for information.
Emprie
Savage
police report
Damage to property
■ County Rs. 27 and 42: reported
March 6, a windshield was cracked on a
vehicle.
Theft
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Gignac promoted at Univac
Mildred B. Gignac of St. Paul has
been promoted at Sperry Univac to
director of administration and
benefits. Her office is located at
Defense Systems Division headquarters
in Eagan.
Since joining Sperry Univac in 1956.
she has held various personnel manage-
ment positions with responsibilities for
pre -retirement planning, employee
benefits, records and insurance.
In her new position, she is responsi-
ble for the company's Resources
Management Division Records and
Benefits section, for administering the
pre -retirement planning program and
for developing special resources
management programs.
Gignac is a director of the Ramsey
County Historical Society and the
Dakota Area Referral and Transporta-
tion for Seniors organization. an ad-
viser to the Greater St. Paul Retired
Senior Volunteer Program. and a Min-
nesota Historical Society docent. She is
also a member of the Minnesota
Museum of Art, Minneapolis Society
of Fine Arts, Minnesota Zoological
Society and the Science Museum of
Minnesota.
��a..QAtnicz Jxlso
Residents request
rise in level of
Black Hawk Lake
by I.inda Hanson
Some residents whose property abuts
Black Hawk Lake would like the City
of Eagan to raise the level of the lake to
make it a "viable lake."
According to consulting engineer to
the city, Robert Rosene, the people
who own property abutting the lake
will have to be in unanimous agree-
ment before the city could raise the
lake's level. This is because the proper-
ty owners would have to agree to an
additional easement because a portion
of their land would be under water.
Rosene added that the Department
of Natural Resources (DNR) sets a nor-
mal ordinary high water level for state
lakes, and that cities can't raise lakes
above that level or reduce a lake to I'/
feet below that level.
Black Hawk Lake could be raised
without going over the limit set by the
DNR, Rosene said.
An informational meeting on raising
the level of Black Hawk Lake was held
recently at city hall. Rosene said that of
!he approximately 15 to 20 property
owners affected, all but a few have in-
dicated that they are in favor of raising
the level of the lake.
Rosene said that the Eagan City
Council will soon be reviewing plans to
construct a I000-ft. overflow gravity
outlet to the lake which will prevent
abutting land from being flooded in
case of heavy rains.
"The outlet won't change the level
of the lake but will be constructed to
leave flexibility in case people decide to
raise the level of the lake in the
future," Rosene said.
Rosene said that the 1000-ft. gravity
outlet project, along with trunk sewer
oversizing, will cost an estimated SI
million. The project is part of a master
plan for developing storm sewers to ac-
commodate present and future housing
in Eagan. The cost of this project will
be assessed to all benefiting property
owners, not just those who own pro-
perty abutting the lake.
If the council approves the project,
Rosene said, they could call for bids
this fall and construction would begin
this winter.
Rosene added that the property
owners who are in favor of raising the
level of the lake said that they will be
talking to those property owners who
haven't made up their minds yet.
LETTERS FROM READERS
Voss wants you to elect
To the Editor:
During my campaign for the Dakota
County Board I have addressed many
issues. I have found considerable
agreement on the issues among Burns-
ville and Eagan area residents.
1. We need a County Commissioner
from the Eagan/Burnsville area. We
cannot continue to be represented in
the 3rd District by someone from West
St. Paul. Our present commissioner
has not responded to our needs. Eagan
and Burnsville are the largest tax con-
tributors to county government and we
are not getting our fair share in services
and roads.
2. We need to improve the image of
the Dakota County Board. 1 would
hope to bring a more professional and
business -type approach jo the board.
3. We need a more visible commis-
sioner. We never see our present 3rd
District commissioner. In contrast,
would attend public meetings at
would be a commissioner with who
people could communicate.
4. There is an obvious lack of pro+
highway development in Dakota Cou
ty_ There is a need to adopt our fir
highway plan and correspondin
schedule of improvements. We cann•
continue to grow so rapidly witho
building a proper highway systen
Everyday we pay the price in loss o
life, property damage, excess fuel con
sumption and frustration. We nee
bicycle and pedestrian trails along ou
highways for safety for our childre
We need something now in the 3r
District and this can only happen wit
proper representation on the count
board.
5. We need to control growth
Voss disregards truth a
To the Editor:
Candidate John Voss of Burnsville
letter to the Editor of October 16th in
the St. Paul Dispatch disclosed his
total disregard for truth and fact. Mr
Voss falsely accused Dakota Count
EAGAN
HRON/CLE
SECTION A
Vol. 1, No. 3
October 22, 1980
TWO SECTIONS
Photo by John Walker
Opening ceremonies for the new Cedar Avenue Bridge will be Oct. 30. The bridge will provide easier access from Eagan to the Twin Cities.
Bridge means boom for Eagan
by J. Boyd
The magnificent New Cedar Avenue
Bridge —magnificent at least to those
who have had to crawl morning and
night over the two rickety spans it
replaces —stands as an apt symbol of
the era now beginning for Eagan.
Like an embracing arm, the bridge
seems to pull the new kid on the urban
block into the fold. And that is precise -
Iv what Eagan is, the new kid, hurrying
in its metamorphosis from bucilic
country town to full-fledged
metropolitan suburb, with all the at-
tendant pluses and minuses.
The metamorphosis is plain to see in
the figures. In August Eagan granted
building permits worth a record $9.8
million. In the same month a year ago,
permits totaled les than a quarter that
figure—$2.05 million. The August
1980 figures translates into 106 single-
family units, 162 apartment units and
some warehouse space. By way of con-
trast, neighboring Apple Valley award-
ed only 120 single-family dwelling per-
mits in the entire first nine months of
this year.
A 15-minute drive through southeast
Eagan will clearly reveal what has hap-
pened. Developments have sprouted
everywhere. Thomas Lake will soon be
surrounded. There's Ridge Cliff and
Eagan Hills, Brittany and Ccdar Cliff.
The country -chic anmes go on and on.
The question is why? Why just now,
with interest rates so high and the
economy so mushy? Several reasons
converged, according to Eagan city of-
ficials.
First, by all accounts, is the Cedar
Avenue Bridge itself, which will pro-
vide much better, quicker access to the
metropolitan area north of Eagan.
However, the bridge is just the first
aspect of a vastly improved transporta-
tion system. Plans include upgrading
to freeway status Cedar Avenue South
to its intersection with 1-35E, which is
now under construction to that in-
tersection; a proposed extension of
1-35E northeast through the heart of
Eagan to St. Paul; and the extension of
1-494 east along the northern edge of
ministratoi. Thar advantage is the
city's close proximity to both
downtown Minneapolis and downtown
BRIDGE: to p. 7A
Eagan.
Improved transportation highlights
another important advantage that is
just now being fully recognized, ac-
cording to Tom Hedges, Eagan city ad -
Taco feast
marks school
lunch week,
Oct. 13-17
See page 2A.
2A
MMMMMMM, tacos...
Photos by Linda Hanson
Leona Trog. left, and Kathleen Glasham, right, dish up the Mexicali corn
and the Spanish rice.
Linda Schultz samples the pineapple.
Colleen Sterns takes a big bite.
Tina Mclnerny cleans up.
Dorothy Ohmann dishes up the tacos.
and Ticks.
The Eagan CHRONICLE, October 22, 1980
7A
Bridge opens new era for Eagan
BRIDGE: from p. 1A
St. Paul, as well as the metropolitan
airport.
Hedges assertion comes as somewhat
of a surprise to many metropolitan
residents, confirmed as they are in the
belief that Eagan lies at the very outer-
most fringe of civilization. But a quick
look at a map substantiates the fact.
Eagan lies tucked into the fold be-
tween Minneapolis and St. Paul
created by a northward bend in the
Mississippi River. Parts of Eagan lie
much closer to downtown Minneapolis
than do sections of Bloomington, for
example. In days of rapidly escalating
transportation costs, such a location
recommends itself quite highly to both
potential home purchasers and
businesses seeking suburban locations.
Eagan has abundant undeveloped
land to accommodate those home
buyers and businesses —more than
many other suburban areas. Eagan's
undeveloped character is partly ar-
tificial. It was brought about by a
moratorium on natural gas hookups
during the mid-I970s for areas served
by People's Natural Gas. Now, with
the moratorium lifted and much other
close -in, developable land already
taken, the spotlight has shifted, in
delay -action fashion. to Eagan.
Eagan was also blessed by nature
with a topography much in demand to-
day. according to Dale Runkle, plan-
ning director for Eagan. He calls it
"terminal moraine." In layman's
terms, this means a glacier gave up on
its southward journey where Eagan
stands today. The result is a pleasant
expanse of tree -covered rolling hills
and water -filled vales, which are a
marked contrast to the ground -down
areas to the north. With homebuyers
today wanting to be close to both
nature and the city. Eagan offers ex-
citing possibilities.
The city also has a ready market to
take advantage of those possibilities.
Sperry Univac and Blue Cross -Blue
Shield have already built large facilities
in Eagan. Sperry Univac employes
more than 3,000 people, and Blue
Cross -Blue Shield employs more than
1.200. Sperry Univac soon will break
ground for a new building on their
Pilot Knob Road campus which will
add an additional 400 jobs over the
next 18 months.
Still, all the factors listed above
would not normally elicit such a strong
response in the face of the current tight
money market. Eagan has escaped the
tight
some
ed a
hand of the Federal Reserve to
extent because of something call -
"tax -exempt single-family mort-
gage revenue bond."
The Eagan City Council floated a
$20.4 million issue of these bonds this
spring. Because the interest on such
bonds is tax-exempt. they attract in-
vestors at a lower rate of interest.
which means that participating lending
institutions in Eagan have had mort-
gage money available at 11-3/8 percent
interest.
Right now that is more than one and
a half percent lower than prevailing
mortgage interest rates around the
Twin Cities. On a $60,000 home, that
difference reduces a monthly mortgage
payment by about $75. giving Eagan a
substantial edge in attracting home -
buyers.
The foregoing sounds like a promo-
tional ad for an Eagan chamber of
commerce. which it well could be.
Nevertheless, it's all true. The access is
improving, the freeways are planned,
the landscape is lovely.
All those factors will mean more
growth for Eagan. The question is:
What will Eagan do with the growth?
Plan for it as best as possible, Hedges
replies.
"The city is quite concerned with its
destiny," he said. "We've just spent 14
months working on a comprehensive
guide plan. We've worked hard and we
think it is an effective, controlled plan
to guide Eagan's growth."
The comprehensive plan now is
ready for submission to the Metro
Council. After review by the council, it
will be adopted by the Eagan City
Council. The plan, Hedges said, re-
quires that development be coor-
dinated with roads, utilities and other
services so that growth does not
outstrip the city's ability to handle it.
In developing the plan, Hedges said,
the city council attempted to combine
the desires of those residents who en-
courage continued urbanization, and
those who desire to retain at least some
of Eagan's rural quality.
"We want to make certain," Hedges
said, "that developers don't come in,
buy up land and create development
that the city can't live with. The city
council has been quite careful. It's
picking and choosing. We've had peo-
ple coming in here with grandiose
ideas, wanting to level hills, put up
apartments and get federal money.
We've told them 'no way —that's not
right for Eagan.'"
The conflict facing Eagan as it works
to cope with the growth is best. ex-
emplified by maps of the city. The
large one on the wall outside Hedges'
office shows the proposed 1-35E run-
ning straight across Blackhawk Lake in
central Eagan. The new, small map
that Hedges hands to a visitor shows a
new route.
The interstate is now proposed to
curve east of Blackhawk rather than go
over it. That change was achieved only
after great effort by a handful of
Blackhawk Lake residents who refused
to see their lifestyle ruined for the sake
of a concrete corridor. They took on
the state, refused to give up despite
numerous setbacks, and, finally, won.
How many more such battles are in
Eagan's future? Who will win and who
will lose? Only time will tell. Virtually
certain, however, is that the Eagan of
1990 will be a far cry from the Eagan
its residents know today.
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Jeffery's Hair Designs
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4sidentsThemaixt to know
who is responsible
by S. Maus Bettenga
..Who's responsible'"
Eagan residents appearing before the
City Council have explained problems
with their homes hoping the city would
pressure developers or builders to cor-
rect those problems.
Park Cliff, Knob Hill and Lexington
Square homeowners have pleaded their
cases this summer, each with differing
results.
Two Park Cliff residents requested in
June that the storm sewer near their
back yards be constructed according to
the original plans filed by the developer
and approved by the city. Each time it
rained, more grass and soil from their
yards washed away, they said.
The neighborhood decided that an ade-
quate storm sewer was needed but the
group didn't want to shoulder the full
burden of financing the project.
The City Council decided residents
would pay no more than two-thirds of the
total assessment. The city would attempt
to recoup the remaining one-third from
developer Richard Winkler. If negotia-
tions failed, the city would pay one-third.
Knob Hill Homeowners Association
submitted a list of 33 problems to the
council in August including streaked and
peeling paint, drainage, maintenance,
landscaping and general aesthetics of the
townhome complex. Repeated discus-
sions between residents and the
developer had not yielded resolution of
the problems.
Karen Ganter, president of the
homeowner's association, requested the
developer, K.H.E Properties, not be
allowed to proceed with any other work
in the city until these complaints were
settled.
City Attorney Paul Hauge said pro-
hibiting a developer from further work
until repairs were made would probably
result in the developer filing a lawsuit
against the city_ Ed Dunn, president of
the company, told the city he was willing
to submit all the issues to an outside
agency for binding arbitration.
Councilmembers agreed that binding
arbitration was the only way Knob Hill
homeowners would have a chance of get-
ting the improvements they sought.
There was little city staff could do, they
said.
Home owners in the Lexington Square
development. near Lexington and
Wescott Road. brought their concerns
about the enforcement of protective
covenants before the council in July.
Many homeowners were not aware of
the protective covenants when they pur-
chased the property. Problems cropped
up when residents violated the covenants
and neighbors were responsible for enfor-
cing them, said Roger Hughes, Lexington
Square resident.
Once again. the council said there was
little it could do.
Lexington Square residents set up a
meeting with a representative from
Mentor Development Corp. Aug. 27 to
discuss their concerns.
C tr R.oN I Ct✓i:
Business l-a-e7
47(4ij Cif RO,JiC.L&
Fairview plans to build its facility on Duckwood, just off Pilot Knob Road. near Town Centre.
Hospital, developer plan Eagan building
A new medical office building Benson-Orth developers plan a medical staff and physician
in Eagan will be a joint venture 22,000 square foot building at In- groups to open offices in Eagan
of Fairview Hospitals and a terstate 0,5E and Duckwood. It and grow with the community,"
developer. said Mark Enger. will be about half the size of the Enger said.
vice president and administrator Burnsville hospital. A rule -of -thumb is 1,000 square
of Fairview Ridges Hospital. "We're encouraging our feet for each physician. so the
plan is to have about 20 physi-
cians in the building. One group,
Bloomington Lake Clinic of Min-
neapolis, is already committed
to take 4,000 square feet, Enger
said.
Plans call for breaking ground
in October and opening in April
1988. Zoning has been approved
by the Eagan City Council. and
the developer and hospital are in
the process of obtaining building
permits.
p-
critiswee.4
Volume 5, No. 52 Feb. 20, 1984
Eagan
Your
Community
Newspaper
Family, job, city council, committees
comprise active way of life for Liz Witt
By JEFF BURRILL
Liz Witt admits her housework
doesn't always get done.
"At least not until the
weekend," she explained.
"That's when the kids and I
tackle the in depth cleaning-"
If free time to handle some of
life's routines occasionally
evades Witt, it's a small wonder.
In addition to her duties as
assistant finance director,
deputy clerk and purchasing
agent for the City of Eagan, she
serves on the Mendota Heights
City Council. And those
functions are shared with
participation on a variety of
committees and organizations.
"Some of my extracurricular
involvements are job related;
some deal with the city council;
some are organizations I belong
to for personal reasons." Witt
continued.
Well, take a breath, for
coupled with her job and council
activities, Witt: is a member of
the League of Minnesota Cities'
board of directors., assists
Eagan's Advisory Parks and
Recreation Commission; is a
member of the Minnesota
Association of Urban
Management Assistants;
belongs to the Minnesota Women
in City Government: is a
member of the Leadership
Forum for Professional Women
in Dakota County; is the Eagan
city staff liaison to the
Burnville-Eagan Cable
Commission; and is a member
of the Northern Dakota County
Cable Commission.
No wonder she doesn't have
time to make her bed in the
morning.
"I enjoy what I'm doing,"
Witt said, "and I get a lot of
support and help from the kids
at home."
Involvement in city and
regional government was not the
direction Witt's career path
immediately followed. A native
of Owatonna - where her father
edited the city newspaper for 50
years • Witt left home at 18 to
attend the University of
Minnesota.
"At 'the U.' I majored in
business, then earned a master's
degree in psychology," Witt
stated. "I found college to be a
wonderful experience and
thoroughly enjoyed the campus
life."
After college, Witt worked as
a research analyst for the state,
then performed similar duties
for the University of Minnesota
in the psychology department.
"The Nixon funding cutbacks
took care of my job at the
University," Witt said, "so I
turned some of my time toward
serving on various committees.
I also became more involved
with my children's activities. I
was a 4H leader, Girl Scout
leader, involved in church work
and took the kids to their games
and other events."
Before long, Witt was working
for the state Department of
Transportation in planning and
programing, followed by a job
with the state Welfare
Department in standards and
licensing.
In 1975, she officially began
her government career by
chairing the Mendota Heights
community celebration. From
there she was named
chairperson of the city's park
and recreation commission, an
experience which led her to run
for city council.
"I ran for council because 1
felt it wasn't responding to the
needs of the park and rec
commission," Witt said. "It
seemed to have no interest in
our meetings or requests, so
what better way to get the
LIZ WITT in her office at the Eagan Municipal Center. As a member of the city staff,
Witt is administrative assistant to finance director Gene VanOverbeke. She Is also
a member of the Mendota Heights City Council and serves on a variety of city and
county governmental committees.
council interested than
attempting to join it."
Three people ran for two va-
cant council seats in the 1978
election, and Witt was one of the
successful candidates.
"It was quite an eye-opening
experience," she related, "1
knew very little about trunk
storm sewers, assessments, or
other routine matters handled
by the council. Some people may
not believe this. but for the first
couple years l didn't say much
at the meetings. I just listened
and learned. But being on the
council is what got me in-
terested in a career in city ad-
ministration work. The more I
found out about city government
work the more I wanted to
know. I'll probably be a student
all my life."
In order to qualify for employ-
ment in city administration,
beginning the fall of 1981 Witt at-
tended class during evenings
and on weekends through
Metropolitan State University.
needed.
However, the way in which high school space needs
should be met is not as clear. The district could spend
around $19 million for a 1,200 seat school on district -
owned land in Eagan. At the time the land was pur-
chased, it was intended for just such use.
A less expensive alternative would be to add space to
the existing Apple Valley and Rosemount high school
sites, which are already near capacity.
Will Apple Valley and Rosemount residents, who
have their own schools, support an Eagan High School
and its tax burden? Can the district avoid a division of
communities during a bond issue campaign?
Another alternative would be to change the entire
grade structure, moving sixth graders to the elemen-
tary level, switching from the middle school approach
to junior high school for seventh, eighth and ninth
graders, and having two three-year high schools- The
middle school concept is said to have obviouN benefits
for the adolescent student; should those benefits be
sacrificed to save the cost of a third high school?
A delay in beginning a building program means that
school crowding will become more acute before
facilities can be readied. However, attempting to
ready a bond issue referendum this spring might have
meant a defeated bond issue.
By going slowly, there will be time to thoroughly in-
form the voting public of the need for increased
facilities. Obtaining a survey should give board
members a clear picture of what the voters are think-
ing.
Choosing to delay a bond issue until fall and seek
citizen input may have been the wisest course. Perhaps
the board's caution will serve the district well.
LEA GUENTHER
Consumer's Resource
Handbook offered
The United States Office of
Consumer Affairs has available
free copies of the Consumer's
Resource Handbook.
The handbook lists addresses
and phone numbers for trade
associations, better business
bureaus, manufacturers, and
government consumer offices. It
also explains what consumers
should do if they are dissatisfied
with products or services.
First, it says, identify the pro-
blem and exactly what solution
would be acceptable. Gather
receipts. warranties. cancelled
checks, etc., and explain the pro-
blem and desired action to the
seller. If that person does not
help, ask for his supervisor and
repeat the complaint.
If that doesn't work, write to
the person responsible for con-
sumer complaints at the com-
pany's headquarters. Be brief,
but include date and place of pur-
chase, serial or model numbers,
the problem and desired solution
and length of time expected for a
resolution. Avoid sarcasm, and
be sure to include name, address
and phone number. Send copies
of pertinent documents.
The next recourse is trade
associations, better business
bureaus and government agen-
cies.
To order the handbook, write
Consumer Information Center,
Dept. 601M, Pueblo, CO, 81009.
The nicest word in
the English language.
Check our classifieds
for FREE Maxi Ads.
Allow me to dispel the common
myth that people get rest in the
hospital. That first night was an
endless stream of nurses asking
questions (yet another clip-
board), taking my temperature
( thermometers have gone
digital. too), taking my blood
pressure and giving me shots.
But what was the most annoy-
ing was the nurses's insistence
that I go to the bathroom. Al first
I passed it off (pardon the pun).
After all, as a sophomore in high
school, I was the choir trip cham-
pion for not using facilities for 36
hours.
But her visits became like
clockwork, shaking my plastic
bottle on the nightstand to see if 1
had produced. 1 was getting anx-
ious, so I finished the pitcher of
ice water and waited.
1 still didn't have the urge. She
threatened me with catheteriza-
tion. My best friend was an order-
ly in high school and college. so I
plotting to kill her when they go
scuba diving i "The Young and
the Restless" ), he wanted to
watch "Family Feud." At least
he was discharged before "One
Life to Live" and "General
Hospital."
I wasn't allowed to leave my
bed the first day, which meant 1
had to take a sponge bath. No fun.
And in the four days there, I
couldn't wash my hair once. Oi-
ly? Suffice it to say Texaco was
rapidly losing interest in acquir-
ing Getty in favor of Gary.
Other than that, hospital life
wasn't bad. Even the food was
tolerable. except for a baked
potato that could have shattered
bullet-proof glass and Cream of
Wheat with a disproportionate
amount of water.
After a few crutch lessons, it
was home to West St. Paul for a
week of recovery with the folks.
That, too. took some adjustment,
especially listening to WCCO-AM
piece of mind
By PE 1'S. TEMPLE
eara voice: ry
man barely able to play racquet-
ball. We have the technology to
rebuild him, to make him better
than before. He will become
pause) The $3,000 Mistake."
I'm back at my own place now.
The worst part about this whol
thing is that I can't drive. Y
see; all my friends are urban
dwellers who think Eagan is
this side of Antarctica.
In all seriousness, I do want to
thank my friends, relatives and
co-workers for their cards, calls
and visits. Charles Fredeen for
allowing me to revel in five hours
of "soaps" a day guilt -free while
I was recovering (Nikki is still in
danger); and Arlyne Olson for
chauffeuring me around now that
I'm back at work.
I also have to thank my parents
who routinely take me shopping
help pick up my apartment an
do my laundry. That I could ge
used to.
Videos invade recording industry
By PETE TEMPLE
Music videos, those presenta-
tions which combine Hot 100
music hits with video produc-
tions, are the latest craze in the
music industry.
They can be seen locally on
WTCN-TV, during the programs
"Friday Night Videos" and
"Saturday Night Rocks."
For those fortunate enough to
have Cable TV, WTBS of Atlanta
offers "Night Tracks." which
shows music videos from 11 p.m.
until 4 a.m. (CST) Friday and
Saturday. And there is even a sta-
tion (MTV) which shows the
videos 24 hours a day.
Having watched and enjoyed
these for some time, especially
after returning from weekend
evening sojourns, I wish to offer
some thoughts.
• My favorite kind of music
video ( hereafter referred to as an
"MV") is one presented in a con-
cert format, such as David
Bowie's "Modern Love" video, or
Billy Joel's Ed Sullivan takeoff
for the song "Tell Her About It."
• 1 generally am not excited
about those MVs which attempt
to put a mini -plot along with the
song. and I think I know why.
When I hear a song on the radio
( on those occasions when 1 can
understand the lyrics). I tend to
imagine a scenario whereby the
words make sense. This is usual-
ly related to some past ex-
perience in my life.
So when I see a music video,
with a completely different kind
of plot attached, it turns me off.
Just a theory.
• It seems to me that the pro-
duction of MVs has to add to a
record company's costs, which in
turn probably increases record
prices for the consumer. If this is
the case. it is a major drawback
of the MV trend.
• 1 have seen all of Boy George
that 1 care to see.
• I'm not entirely "thrilled"
(sorry about that) by Michael
Jackson's music, but upon seeing
his videos. and watching him
dance, I'm sure I would find a
Michael Jackson concert difficult
to avoid.
He is undoubtedly the hottest
commodity in the music industry
today. and his MVs have had
much to do with that success.
• The day when you can buy an
"album" of one groups music
videos, for play on a video-
cassette recorder, can't be far
off.
• MVs, for the most part, are
entertaining to watch and listen
to, and figure to gain even more
popularity. The trouble is,
will eventually find i if the
haven't already) that they ca
make it big unless or until
have produced an MV.
Eagan
Thisweek
PUBLISHERS
Joseph R Clay • Daniel H. Clay
MANAGING EDITOR
Janet Greenslit
NEWS EDITOR
Jett Burrill
SPORTS EDITOR
Pete Temple
ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR
Charles Fredeen
ADVERTISING MANAGER
John Swennes
CLASSIFIED MANAGER
Patricia Lehr
OFFICE LOCATED:
Dtamondhead Mali
272 W Burnsville Pkwy
Burnsville
890.2530
ADVERTISING
463-7 8A
"Star City" boosters-- 4 _ O - 23`I T ►+IS u) e FK
Economic development commission now at work
Officers have been selected aik.
subcommittees established for
the City of Eagan's Economic
Itevelopment Commission. Larry
1A'enzel, Wenzel Mechanical and
Hilite Electric, was named
chairperson of the commission:
Roger Lee, People's Natural Gas
('o., vice chairperson; and David
Kleimola, Professional Travel
Management, secretary.
The economic development
commission was appointed by the
Eagan City Council in order to
fulfill requirements for achieve-
ment of "Star City" status for
Eagan, and also to develop and
promote a planned industrial and
commercial development pro-
gram for the community.
"I'm very excited about the
"Star City" program." Wenzel
related. "Because of all the work
that has been done by City Ad-
Iministrator Tom Hedges and his
staff at city hall, and by Mayor
Bea Blomquist and the city coun-
cil, things are really on the move.
We've already broken up into
subcommittees and we feel we're
well on our way to achieving the
"Star City" goal. We're hoping to
have all the requirements met by
nod summer. -
In addition to Wenzel, l.re, at,d
Kleimola, members of the com-
mission include: Mark Parranto,
J.E. Parranto Associates, Inc.;
Larry Kraning, Norwest Bank
Old St. Anthony; Edna F. Street,
Street Publications; R.E. Steven-
son, Signal Hills Bank; John Mc-
Call, Economics Laboratory; and
Hedges. representing the City of
Eagan.
The economic development
commission subcommittees have
been established and members
have been appointed to serve on
them. The committees include:
The economic development and
community assessment commit-
tee, which is responsible for three
specific criteria for satisfying
"Star City" program re-
quirements. These requirements
include a community assessment
report. a one-year action pro-
gram for community economic
development, and a five-year
plan and strategy for community
economic development. Parranto
chairs this committee, with
Kleimola and Wenzel serving as
members;
The public relations commit-
tee. which is responsible for
general public relations and
development of a community
slide presentation to be used in
promoting the City of Eagan.
Street is chairperson of this com-
mittee;
The labor distribution and in-
dustrial call committee. Main
functions of this committee are to
conduct a labor survey and to
form an industry call program.
The purposes of these functions
are to determine current and
future labor needs and availabili-
ty, along with local industry's
plans for development and ex-
pansion. Stevenson is chairper-
son of this committee.
The economic development
commission meets the first
Wednesday of the month at noon
at the Eagan Municipal Center,
while subcommittee meetings
are held the second Wednesday of
the month at the municipal
center. (The economic develop-
ment and community assess-
ment, and the labor distribution
and industrial call subcommit-
tees meet at noon, while the
public relations subcommittee
gathers at 4:30 p.m.
For further information con-
cerning the economic develop-
ment commission and/or the
"Star City" program contact the
city administrator's office at
454-8100.
LARRY WENZEL
Witt continued from front
the particular subject being
studied. There were a lot of
finance and management
classes involved."
Witt completed her studies in
early 1982 and at the suggestion
of Mendota Heights City Ad-
ministrator Orvil Johnson. she
contacted Eagan City Ad-
ministrator Tom Hedges about
possible work as an intern.
"I worked as an intern in
Eagan from February, 1982, un-
til August, 1983, which is a lot
longer than most intern pro-
grams run," Witt said. "But
Tom was in the process of
reorganization and I was asked
to help with that, which stretch-
ed out my time. Tom provides
an outstanding training ground
other children are at home in
Mendota Heights. There is Gret-
chen, 24, Greg, 17, Jamie, 13,
Matt, 11, and Suzie, 9. Matt and
Suzie are a niece and nephew
who became welcome members
of the Witt household following a
death in the family.
"With my schedule, the kids
really help out a lot around the
house," Wilt reaffirmed. "It
takes a great deal of organiza-
tion, but there are designated
wash days, assigned cooking
weeks and the thorough Satur-
day cleanings."
Organization at home and
organization at work appear to
run a similar course for Witt.
And she appreciates the oppor-
tunity to be employed where she
is.
"I feel fortunate to work with
the administrative staff in
Eagan," she observed. "I'm in-
volved with a dynamic group of
individuals who are very
Food distribution is
Feb. 23 at MMOC
Food available through the
Federal Commodity Distribution
Program will be distributed by
the Community Action Council's
Emergency Services Program
Thursday, Feb. 23, from 9:30 to 3
o.m.
The product will be distributed
at Mary, Mother of the Church,
3333 Cliff Rd.. Burnsville, for
residents of Apple Valley, Burn-
sville, Eagan. Farmington,
Lakeville and Rosemount.
The product will be distributed
inside the church basement.
Parking is permitted in the lower
Legislators to
host open house
Three area legislators will
cohost "Sunday at the Capitol,"
an open house, from 1 to 4 p.m.
Sunday, Feb. 26.
Rep. Carolyn Rodriguez, Apple
lot only. Recipients should enter
doors on the southwest side of the
church.
Those who fall within income
guidelines set by the Minnesota
Department of Economic Securi-
ty will be required to show valid
indentification proving Dakota
County residency and to sign an
income affidavit before receiving
the product. All affidavits will be
checked to verify income
statements.
For further information call
the Dakota Help -Line, 894-2424.
Film series set
at area church
"His Stubborn Love," a film
series, will be presented at Peace
Reformed Church at 7 p.m. Feb.
22.
The series features Joyce Lan -
Co -op sponsors
annual Bean Week
The Valley Community Co-op,
13710 Nicollet Ave. So., Burn-
sville, is sponsoring its annual
Bean Week Feb. 20-25.
The public is welcome to visit
the co-op and sample foods on the
following days during Bean
Week: appetizers, Monday, 11
a.m. to 7 p.m.; soups, Tuesday. 11
a.m. to 7 p.m.; main dishes,
Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.;
salads, Thursday, 11 a.m. to 7
p.m.; sandwich fillings, Friday,
11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; desserts, Satur-
day, 11 a.m, to 4 p.m.
Beans will be included in all
recipes served, which will range
from tofu antipasto to carob
mousse pie. Copies of all the
recipes will be made available
Bloodmobile set
at area church
The Red Cross Bloodmobile
will be in Rosemount Thursday,
Feb. 23 from 1 to 7 p.m. at St.
John's Lutheran Church, 144th St.
- -1 (& r q` C 1N-gz o ,./ L. C 5A
Diamond T horses move to new home
Dozens of people gathered at the old Diamond T Ranch Wednesday to
help owners Jerry and Carol Thomas move dozens of horses to their new
ranch at 4889 Pilot Knob Road. At left, the trail ride travels up Pilot Knob
north of Cliff. Below are Debbie and Brandon Hedges.
6A
EDITotuoPINIoN
New tides of garbage threaten Dakota County
It's time Dakota County residents
took an interest in garbage. Sewage
Bonin's views
not fully
stated in
candidates
rally story
To the Editor:
I was very disappointed with Tom
fk' Maw 17 of
sludge and ash are the latest intruders
on our green acres and will be discuss-
ed at a public hearing at Farmington
Senior High School June 10. Let's
hope for a good turnout at that impor-
tant hearing.
Nine of 31 proposed "search areas"
for sludge and ash disposal sites in the
seven -county Metropolitan area are
located in Dakota County —which
gives us a better chance of "winning"
the privilege of having that stuff haul-
ed here than do some of our neighbors
whose garbage we bury weekly in
numerous landfills throughout the
county.
Meanwhile over in Burnsville, Ed
Kraemer and Sons is asking to enlarge
their landfill along the Minnesota
River, north of Highway 13, by 17
acres wide and 800 feet high —which in
the floodplain seems like a mountain.
The view of the River from Highway
13 has been blocked for at least 5 years
by the pile of garbage there.
And Freeway Landfill —another
massive operation approaching I-35W
on the west just south of the
River —wants to expand as well. The
state Health Department has warned
that during periods of heavy pumping
(during dry spells) Burnsville's drink-
ing water wells are threatened by con-
tamination.
We heard an awful story recently
about a 70-year-old dump in Georgia
having just been found to be poisoning
a water supply. The dangers don't go
away soon, and once a water supply is
contaminated there's no way we know
of to clean it
FOR DUNN'S OVERVIEW ESTATES - `� � 3 `��� CI -a CT,/ TR18k)r*"
Eagan Council turns down
rezoning, chastises developer
By TIM DORNFELD
Staff Writer
EAGAN - Bart Dunn came to
the city council wanting to rezone
14 single family lots. Not only was
he turned down unanimously, but
he received harsh words of
criticism from the mayor for his
methods.
During an earlier neighborhood
informational meeting, Mayor
Bea Blomquist charged,
"Threats were made, in talking
to the residents that if the request
was not allowed, lesser quality
homes would be put in."
"I'm really concerned when a
developer threatens a communi-
ty," Blomquist continued, adding
that she was "taken aback as a
public official."
The developer, Bart Dunn,
denied that any threats were
made. He had simply explained,
Dunn said, that if the property
was rezoned there would be
$120,000 duplexes put in and, if it
was not, $60-$70,000 single family
homes would be constructed.
The rezoning was asked as a
solution to an assessments pro-
blem that had occurred in Dunn's
Overview Estates. Dunn had told
the advisory planning commis-
sion March 24 that the estimated
assessments for 14 single family
lots in the development had been
$6900 and the actual assessments
had ended up at about $10,550 - or
about 65% of the land value.
There were three solutions sug-
gested by the owners to make the
assessments lower for each
owner: smaller Tots, reduction in
assessments or a rezoning to R-2,
which would allow duplexes in-
stead of single family homes.
Dunn was pursuing the latter.
The planning commission
recommended denial of the
rezoning and its reasons were
similar to those presented by
neighborhood residents objecting
to the rezoning and by the council
in its denial.
Those reasons included: the
property had originally been zon-
ed R-1 (single family), it was
shown that way on the com-
prehensive guide and the
residents assumed it would be us-
ed for that purpose; the solution
was only an economic solution for
a small area and wasn't planned
as part of the overall project; and
thecity has never had R-2 located
anywhere but next to a major
street, and never surrounded by
R-1 land.
The council also turned down,
reluctantly, a request by Police
Chief Martin DesLauriers for two
additional police officers. He told
the council that the number of
calls, the seriousness of the calls
and the time consumed have all
risen, necessitating the requests
in mid -year.
The council turned down the re-
quest because it didn't know
where the money would come
from to pay for it. "1 think it's
safe to say that everyone wants to
do it," Council member Ted
Wachter said, "but where are we
going to get the funds."
IN OTHER ACTION, THE
COUNCIL:
CONTINUED to May 5 the in-
dustrial revenue financing for the
Safari Mall in the amount of $3.8
million.
APPROVED Pilot Knob Rd.
utility services.
APPROVED a preliminary
plat for the Tomark Addition,
APPROVED a waiver of plat to
subdivide six duplex Tots for
single ownership in Ches Mar and
Cedar Grove.
APPROVED a special use per-
mit for Sally Beauchemin to keep
three horses and one goat on her
property.
DENIED a temporary 3.2 non -
intoxicating malt liquor license
for a garage sale.
APPROVED preliminary plat
for Joyce Addition.
SET a public hearing May 19
for industrial revenue financing
for Gresser, Inc.
DENIED a truck storage ex-
tension for Wendell Widstrom
and put the matter on the May 5
agenda.
APPROVED a temporary
advertising sign at Briar Hill.
APPROVEDan extension on a
truck terminal in the Lembke Ad-
dition.
APPROVED a weed ordinance
for the city.
AGREED to put the issue of
housing for senior citizens on a
future agenda.
APPROVED contracts 81-2 and
80-21.
APPROVED the consent agen-
da.
ild an arena if and when the
w high school is built. They
th noted that an arena would
1p pass a school bond issue.
Knutson suggested that the
mmittee make a study on its
as to the best location in
mount. •'1 don't believe that
can get a commitment from
city at this point for a piece of
blic land."
w is caused
about $8000 damage to the county
park at Lake Byllesby last
weekend.
Chuck Lowery, county parks
director, said the incident occur-
red around 5 a.m. Saturday, April
18. A passenger car struck trees.
fences and gates and smashed a
chemical toilet.
He said the vehicle also at-
tempted to push a parked camp-
ing vehicle into the lake.
12 to 15 year olds
An "Awareness Day" was pro-
posed offering classes to• local
youth by members of local agen-
cies or citizens, and also a youth
farm day and grandparenting
program. It was decided that ad-
ditional information would be
gathered through the aid of the
park and recreation department
before a decision would be reach-
ed.
The council adopted an or -
on.
Raffle licenses were granted th
Band Boosters. Lakeville Dollar
for Scholars and All Saint
t'hurch. The council also approv
ed the donation of a gift not to ex
ceed $100 for the all-night gradua
tion party.
The following easements were
approved: $104u to Mr. Gunder-
son in the Dak Hills Addition.
$1870 to Ronald Gerk in Forest
Hills, $2Uou to Farmers' Union for
Forest Hills. $4800 to Mr. Kuka
ange forces election distri
-We can't do anything without
he (census) maps." noted Com-
nissioner Gerald Hollenkamp.
'The last time we did it," he con-
inued. "there was a hestitation
o put anything on paper. i Com-
nissionerst don't want to change
,omeone else's lines, or put forth
a claim for your own. "I don't see
his as that difficult a task,"
follenkamp continued. "Some
adjustments will have to be
nade. We can start scratching
omething out before the
egislalure adjourns."
Fred Joy" county ad-
ninistrator, suggested that each
ommissioner take a map and
'take a crack at it.'There was
aughter when he said that the
naps should perhaps be submit-
ed anonymo,isly
'-I think the idea of everyone
coning in with a plan makes
some sense." said Streefland
more seriously. "I would like to
see what the lines were like 10
years ago," he continued. "so we
can see what areas of land have
traditionally belonged to a par-
ticular district."
Voss pointed out that it would
be helpful to have 1890 population
projections before drawing this
year's lines. Hollenkamp noted
that there has been attempts at
predicting growth before, but
those predictions were inac-
curate Voss replied that the
sewer systems were under coun-
ty control and should more or less
determine where the population
would go.
"We should seek out the
criteria for reapportionment,"
said Commissioner Gene Atkins.
"Obviously, there will be one
manone vote. But I would like to
avoid splitting up towns."
West St. Paul has indicated
that it wants to be united under
one commissioner district.
"Perhaps," suggested Atkins,
"staff can review the (state)
statutes and find the legal
criteria we can choose from."
Robert Carolan, county at-
torney, pointed out that every at-
tempt must be made to make
each commissioner district as
equal in population to the others
as possible.
"Let's gather all the informa-
tion we need to proceed," said
Atkins. "I want to approach it as
a public servant, not as Gene
Atkins looking out for Gene
Atkins. I'd like to give the whole
job to an outside source who has
never seen a Dakota County
map.'
Streefland noted that only a
new Moses would be up to the
chore.
IN OTHER ACTION. THE
COUNTY Ct)MMISSIONERS:
DENIED a labor grievance
from Wayne Thompson. road and
bridge engineering technical
unit.
Human services
In action prior to the county
board meeting, the Dakota Coun-
ty Human Services Board:
OFFICIALLY recognized Na-
tional Secretaries' Week and
commended all county secre•
taries for their work in the past
year.
, DENIED a Tabor grievance by
Ann Ziemer, former economic
assistance employee.
APPOINTED Walter Bertram,
chairman of the Dakota Area
Referral and Transportation for
Seniors (DARTS.) board, to the
human services advisory com-
it, -NO -I9°10 CmRoAIIcLe;
Attorney's office exonerates former
Mayor Ellison of alleged violations
By Terrance Mencel
The Dakota County Attorney's
Office has dropped a complaint
alleging former Eagan Mayor
Vic Ellison's campaign adver-
tisements contained false
information.
No "probable cause" was
found during an investigation
that would warrant a grand jury
to consider filing charges
against Ellison, said Robert
King Jr., assistant county
attorney.
"The statement that Ellison
made was not false," King said.
Former City Council can-
didate James Wade Jr. alleged
that Ellison violated the Fair
Campaign Practices Act last
year when Ellison's newspaper
advertisements stated. "And
since Vic Ellison has been
Mayor, no new apartments have
been built."
Wade, in a complaint to the
County Attorney's Office, said
that statement about "no new
apartments" was false informa-
tion. Wade produced
photographs of what he called
"apartments" under construc-
tion during Ellison's tenure as
mayor.
But the six "apartment"
buildings Wade referred to in his
letter either were townhouses or
approved previous to Ellison's
tenure. King said.
Of the ""apartments" Wade
referred to, King said: the
Waterford apartment project
was not under construction; the
Thomas Lake Woods project
consisted of townhomes and
single family homes; Stratford
Oaks was not under construction
nor was Crystal Ponds; Alden
Ponds were townhomes; and the
Silver Bell Apartments were ex-
isting apartments which receiv-
ed council approval for expan-
sion prior to Ellison's tenure as
mayor.
The Dakota County Attorney's
Office dismissed the allegations
against Ellison based on the fin-
dings of a Dakota County
Sheriff's investigation _that
began last fall. Ellison's cam-
paign advertisement statements
were "literally true," King said.
ll-S- 44go
Ribbon -cutting
ceremony opens new
Cedar Avenue Bridge
Pledging allegiance to the 'lag is Father Donal Burns. Burnsville, and
other local leaders.
Welfare building sold
HASTINGS—The Dakota County
Board of Commissioners last week
lowered the asking price by $45,000 on
the county -owned former Southview
Welfare building in South St. Paul and
approved the sale of the building on a
3-1 vote.
New owners of the building are Fred
G. Lenertz and Lawrence L. Lenertz,
Jr., who negotiated the purchase of the
building for S205,000 through the
South St. Paul law firm of Grannis,
Grannis, Campbell and Farrell.
Voting against the sale was Commis-
sioner Jerry Hollenkamp, who ob-
jected to selling the building for less
than the $250,000 asking price original-
ly set by the board in January. Com-
missioner Gene Atkins was absent.
The building has been vacant since
late August when county welfare staff
moved into larger quarters leased from
the South St. Paul School District al
South St. Paul Junior High School.
Under the terms of the sale to the
Fred Joy
Lenertzes, the county will receive
S20,500 as a down payment with the
SI84,500 balance on a contract for
deed at 11 percent interest, payable on
a monthly basis with a 20-year amor-
tization schedule. The total balance is
due five years from the closing date.
The agreement further calls for a
30-day option by the buyer to evaluate
the property from the architectural
standpoint for the sum of $500. The
Nosing and possession date is set for
Jan. 15, 1981.
Under the terms of the sale, the
county will accrue approximately
S385,000. The only other offer was for
$I85,000, which would have accrued
8trideRite
Dresses up
the holidays.
This holiday dress them up in Stride
Rite' shoes and Ihey won't mind a h�
-T1415 WEEK EEK
Ribbon -cutting
ceremony opens
new Cedar Avenue
Bridge
Gov. Quie
Photos by L'nda Hanson
SECTION B
John Klein, Project Director of the
Urban Council on Mobility.
From left: Apple Valley Junior Miss Jan Eichler, Miss son. Hiwayan Club Queen Jackie Carlson and Cover -
Lakeville Princess Leslie Morrison, Congressman nor Al Quie.
Tom Hagedorn, Burnsville Junior Miss Sandy Swen-
2B
♦It _1111 Ir
-��1' 66
First to cross the new bridge were cars. fire engines. walkers and dogs.
N. „Ivy Below: The trombone player was one of the Burnsville High School band
members playing for opening ceremonies al the news bridge.
S7. PAUL PIONEER PRESS DISPATCH
N 87
Eagan mall clears first hurdle
By Bruce Orwell
Stet, writer
The prospect for opening a Target store in
Eagan brightened considerably Tuesday night
as the City Council approved preliminary plans
for a Target -anchored mall in the southern part
of the city.
The council voted 3.2 to approve plans that
would place the 266,000-square-foot mall with
the Target discount store and Cub Foods store
on a 49-acre site at Cliff and Rahn roads. The
project by the Hoffman Development Group of
Burnsville has bounced between the Eagan City
Council and Planning Commission since August.
The developers must still clear several envi-
ronmental hurdles and obtain final approval
from the council.
The council action came after a parade of
conflicting views from developers, consultants,
city staff and state officials.
Glen Van Wormer. a traffic consultant with
SEH Engineers of St. Paul, said traffic near the
shopping center would increase by about 30,000
car -trips a day, and significant road alterations
would be necessary. But growth in the area is
inevitable, he said.
"There will be some delays, there will be
some congestion," Van Wormer said. "But it
will function satisfactorily for a commercial
center .. , Cliff Road is going to have additional
traffic no matter what type of development
goes in there."
Mike Mueller, a hydrologist for the Minneso-
ta Department of Natural Resources, said the
proposed development raises concern about
erosion and the wildlife habitat around Cliff
Lake. The DNR has placed 41,000 walleyes in
the lake over the past few years.
"The wildlife habitat will practically be elim-
inated," Mueller said. An environmental assess-
ment worksheet is in progress for the site.
Dave Sellegren, attorney for the Hoffman
group. said the developer can make adjust-
ments to preserve the lake environment.
The Hoffman group preferred a different
configuration of the shopping center, but ran
into heavy opposition from city staff, the Advi-
sory Planning Commission and neighborhood
residents.
City staff members told the developers that
the first proposal would require rezoning be-
cause it conflicted with part of a planned devel-
opment agreement filed in the late 1970s.
Neighborhood residents complained that the
development was too close to Rahn Elementary
School and a city park, which are down the
street. Planning Commission hearings and the
first city council debate on the project each ran
more than four hours as neighbors said their
children would be endangered.
Opening a Target store in Eagan has been a
difficult problem for more than the Hoffman
group. Earlier this year. the council rejected a
request to rezone land at Interstate 35E and
Diffley Road for a Target -anchored mall to be
built by the Bieter Co. of Edina.
After the last delay in the Cliff Lake project,
Target spokesman George Hite said the chain
had become frustrated with the slow process
and was considering looking at sites outside of
Eagan, probably in Apple Valley.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 1, 1987
shopping mall
VL f IDJV EY2. f R ss
Eagan to get new slant on
By Bruce Orwell
Stan writer
A Burnsville developer will approach the
Eagan City Council a second time tonight to
try to win approval for a shopping center.
The Hoffman Development Group, though,
will still have to overcome a recommenda-
tion by the city's Planning Commission to
reject the plan for a 220,000-square-foot re-
tail center that would be anchored by a Tar-
get discount store and a Cub Foods store.
The council earlier delayed a decision on
the shopping center planned for Cliff and
Rahn roads. After four hours of testimony
and debate Nov. 5. the council sent the con-
troversial project back to the Advisory Plan-
ning Commission to consider a new configu-
ration the Hoffman group offered for the
shopping center.
The second plan, members of the Hoffman
family said, eliminates a debate over
whether the land needs to be rezoned by
moving the location of the shopping center
slightly. placing it all on land everyone
agrees is zoned for commercial uses.
The Planning Commission rejected the
new configuration by a 4-1 vote last week
after some members said they haven't had
tithe to evaluate it thoroughly.
Eagan Planning Director Dale Runkle
said the Planning Commission was con-
cerned about several things, including traf-
fic problems at Cliff and Rahn roads. A con-
sultant said traffic would worsen if the
shopping center is built.
Mike Hoffman, a partner in the Hoffman
Group, said he is perplexed by the Planning
Commission's statement that it hasn't had
time to review the latest version of the
project. He contends that the city has had
that version of the project for months_
"I am really puzzled," Hoffman said.
"We're wondering why staff said they didn't
have proper time to review this. They've
seen both configurations now for six months.
We've always shown them both configura-
tions. both layouts, and said we can do this
either way."
Hoffman said his company has made an
effort to address everyone's concerns.
"We've made many, many revisions in re-
gard to the city's recommendations, traffic
recommendations and neighborhood recom-
mendations," Hoffman said. "We've tried
real hard to satisfy as many people as possi-
ble here. We've held up our end of the bar-
gain."
Eagan Opens Fire Station Number Three
EAGAN — With firs station three in operation, the fire fighters gathered to
host the city council members in a tour of the facility. The new station is
located on the corner of Pilot Knob Rd. and Wilderness Run Rd. Fire fighters
and city officials include, from left: District Chief Jerry Adam, Captain
Jerry Thomas, Captain Ed Burlingame, Mike Thomos, Roy Kugel, Lyle
Granlund, Don Deike, Jim Mueller, Dick Rosenberg, fire fighters, Ken
Southorn, building committee member, council members Tom Egan, Jim
Smith, Ken Wachter, Mayor Bea Blomquist, council member Mark Perron -
to, Tom Hedges, city administrator, and Bob Childers, Eagan Fire Chief.
iq-80
I don't know which is sweeter
When spring comes to town
The flowers coming up
Or the heating bills going down
That rhubarb patch in your back yard can bea boon all year round.
IIrhubarb can't be used in one season, freeze it. Simply wash it and
cut it into inch pieces, discarding blemished stalks. Package and
freeze it. Rhubarb should be frozen before the end of June while the
stalks are still crisp and haven't become woody, for the best results.
11 pies are your specialty, package the proper amount of rhubarb
with the quantity of sugar you would use for each pie and freeze.
RHUBARB DESSERT CAKE: '4 cup butter, 1 cup sugar. 1 egg, 2 tbls.
hotwater. t tsp. vanilla, '4 tsp. salt, 1 tsp. soda, 1 tsp. cinnamon, 1
scant tsp. nutmeg. 1 cup flour, 2'2 cups cut-up rhubarb and 'z cup
chopped walnuts. Cream butter and sugar. Add egg, water and
vanilla. Sift dry ingredients together and mix into mixture. Fold in
rhubarb and nuts. Bake in a pie pan in a 350 degree oven for 45
minutes. Serve with caramel sauce made by mixing !: cup butter or
oleo, ' 2 cup brawn sugar. ' 2 cup granulated sugar. 1 Ibis. flour and 'y
cup cream. Boil to desired thickness and add 1 tsp. vanilla. Pour over
cake for serving.
UNUSUAL RHUBARB DESSERT: 1'7 cups sugar, 1'7 cups water, 3
cups flour, 3 tsps. baking powder. 't tsp. salt, ':, cup sugar, 'Y cup
shortening, 1 cup milk, 3 tbls. melted butter, 3 cups cut-up rhubarb, 1
cup cut rhubarb I no mistake), 't cup sugar and 47 cup water. Com-
bine 1' 2 cups each sugar and water. Cook 5 minutes. Pour into a
itreased rectangular baking pan. Make a biscuit dough by sifting
)together flour, baking powder, salt and t;, cup sugar. Cut in shorten-
ing. Add milk and stir. Knead on floured board. Roll into a 12-inch
square' -inch thick. Brush with melted butter. Spread dough with 3
pups rhubarb and roll as for jelly -roil. Cut into 1'2-inch slices and
place in syrup in pan. Bake at 450 degrees for 40 minutes. During
3aking, baste with sauce made by cooking together 1 cup rhubarb
And the remaining sugar and water. Serves 8. Delicious!
RHUBARB DESSERT: Crust: 1 cup flour, 1 tsp. baking powder, ' 4 tsp.
It, 2 tsps. butter, 1 beaten egg, 2 tbls. milk. Filling: 3 cups rhubarb,
1 pkg. red fruit -flavored gelatin. Streusel topping: 1 cup sugar, 'z
:up flour and ':, cup butter or oleo. Combine flour, baking powder,
Salt, and butter. Mix as for pie crust. Add beaten egg and milk. Pat in
bottom and sides of 9-inch greased pan. Place rhubarb in crust.
Sprinkle dry gelatin over rhubarb. Over this sprinkle streusel topp-
ng which has been mixed. Bake in a 350 degree oven for 45 minutes.
Makes 8 servings.
When you get to the end of your rope, tie a knot in the end of it and
hang on.
AMA basket is full of useful gifts to please your
amity.
Take a break from unpacking and call me.
41Conark
Apple Volley -Rosemount - 432-3826
APPLE VALLE
BAKERY
APPLE VALLEY SQUARE
County Rd. 42 & Cedar Ave.
SPECIAL
WEDMESDAY, THURSDAY, FRIDAY, SATURDAY
COUPON
JR. BUNS
490 doz.
Reg. 794 dox.
L
Let us bake your buns, dinner rolls, breads and decorate
your graduation cokes. You'll be VERY satisfied.
PHONE 432-6665
WE ARE OPEN EARLY EVERY MORNING
CLOSED SUN AY
SHOPi
You and your guest are cordially
MENU SELECTION when you pu
or greater value
Not voiid on whole Ti
1
TDRJVE-TH
GET A FR
With a
SA
Roos
Buy 1 R
Regular
redeem t
second
TURK
SHOPP
EXPIRES
Variety on the menu at Sigmund's
By CHRISTY DeJOY
Scents of homemade stew and
freshly -baked apple strudel float
from the kitchen and fill the air.
With ck ed eyes, one remembers
the aromas of Grandma's house.
But logic reminds that it isn't
Grandma's house. but perhaps
the next best thing - Sigmund's
Restaurant in Eagan.
Sigmund's, located in the Silver
Bell Shopping Center, is a Family -
oriented restaurant featuring a
variety of authentic European
foods. It opened just over two
weeks ago and is awned and
operated by Hana and Paul
Matousek.
Fifteen years ago the
Matouseks and their 4-year-old
daughter came to the United
States to open a restaurant. Hana
gained restaurant experience
working in Vienna, Austria. The
Czechoslovakian and German
couple found success running a
restaurant in Cleveland and took
on a new venture five years ago.
They opened the Cafe Praha in
St. Paul and worked there until
they sold the business in April
1964. Since the couple, their
19-year-old daughter and their
13-year-old son have lived in
Eagan since 1979 and have seen
the city grow, they decided to
open a restaurant in Eagan.
Sigmund's. which is a family
name on Hana's side, is open for
breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Hours open to the public are 9
a.m.-9 p.m. weekdays and 7
a.m.-11 p.m. weekends.
"We have more experience in
breakfasts and lunches, hut we're
more dinner oriented," Hana
said.
Breakfast offers customers
various egg dishes, omelettes.
baked souffles and griddle cakes.
Lunches and dinners include the
familiar, such as a hamburger
with bacon or a sirloin steak, to
the exotic, including chicken
paprikash, sarma (stuffed cab-
bage' and budapest (pork chops
in a spicy gravy). Nine stews are
on the menu and the selection of
the day vanes.
Some of the European coun-
tries represented on the menu in-
clude Germany, Sweden,
OWNER HANA Matousek shows off freshly -baked blueberry and apricot cakes.
Hungary, Spain, Italy and Switz-
erland.
"It's all home cooking. We
prepare everything from fresh in-
gredients," Hana said.
All of the food is baked, brais-
ed, panfried or grilled. "We don't
deep fry anything. In fact, we
don't even have a deep fryer. The
trend is getting away from deep
frying. Any other restaurant
around here has plenty of deep-
fried food. We want to keep our
food a variety - not like everyone
else's," she said.
"Besides, deep frying isn't
healthy. "
Health is also a factor in the
recipes of the desserts. Hana said
she uses little sugar in the sweet
treats, such as the homemade
rolls and pastries.
"We do use a lot of fresh fruit
though. We'll be using what ever
is in season," she said before run-
ning off to check on the blueberry
and apricot coffee cake; baking
in the oven.
Sigmund's, which occupies the
former Lee's Barbecue quarters,
seats 75 people and will be ex-
panded to allow for 100
customers. The restaurant will
also offer wine and beer. A pastry
case and carry out service is also
planned for the future.
"We can offer a full line of ser-
vice. And we're not exclusive to
the menu. We can do catering too
- hot or cold buffet," she said.
With the increase of customers
the Matouseks are hoping to at-
tract to Sigmund's, will come
staff expansion. Currently, the
husband -and -wife team do all of
the cooking_, their son is the
dishwasher and three part-time
waitresses are employed.
"We're putting in a lot of hours
here, but we were prepared for
that. We had other restaurants
and knew what we were getting
into." she said.
T AND CONTESTS BEGIN EACH DAY AT 9 A.M.
DAY - JUNE 19
10 A.M. RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONIES AND PARACHUTE JUMP
1 P.M. - 4 PM. WAY.L. WHALE
DAY - JUNE 20
2 P.M. - 4 P.M. W.D.G.Y.'S RUSS BOHATY
- JUNE 21
"MEAN GENE" (SCHEDULE PERMITTING)
AY - JUNE 22
PRIZE DRAWINGS - INCLUDING THE GRAND PRIZE
PLUS
17FS/SURPRISES ... $100 SAVINGS BOND CONTEST ... GRAND PRIZE - TRIP
FOR 2 TO LAS VEGAS ... SHOPPING SPREE ... V.C.R.... GUEST CELEBRITIES
BALLOONS FOR THE KIDS ... REFRESHMENTS
On 26 - Week Investor Certificates
11.880 WO through Wed
January y
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new Zt/z Year Investor Certificate.
1 .4
by "Tim Mickeltton
"What's an Eagan?" is just one of the
things Bea Blomquist. sworn in Jan. 2 as
Eagan's new mayor, intends to answer
while in office.
Blomquist, elected Nos. 6 over former
Mayor Leo Murphy by a margin of 283
votes has been a chemist for the past 14
years. working at Gould. Inc. for IO years,
the Metropolitan Waste Control Commis-
sion for three years, and Finishing Equip-
ment, in Eagan, this last year. She is the
mother of two daughters, Linda. 21, and
Dawn, 20. and one son, Brent, 22. Her hus-
band. Ed. is the coordinator and district ac-
countant for School District 832. which in-
cludes Mahtomedi. Del!wood, Willernie
and part of North St. Paul. The Blomquists
live at 4504 Oak Chase Road in Eagan.
Blomquist finished her BA degree in
natural science last year at Metropolitan
State University in St. Paul, and avidly sup-
ports their program.
"It's a good little college. It has a lot to
offer to adults," she said. "Their concept is
very good. They utilize existing facilities all
over the Twin Cities."
Blomquist says she would like to see
Metropolitan State offer classes in the
Burnsville. Eagan and Mendota Heights
areas
"I think adult education is something
stimulating —tor learning and enjoyment as
well." she said "And with the energy pro-
blem, it lusi makes sense to offer classes
that are more accessible. Right now their
classes are oriented to the north and
downtown areas. 1 want to see Eagan get on
the map." she said.
According to Blomquist. her decision to
run tor mayor was basically "spur of the
moment."
"There were a couple of reasons," said
Blomquist. "I was genuinely concerned
about the community and had question,
about it. and the current mayor was runn-
ing unopposed
"I don't think anyone should run unop
posed." she added.
"I've been actively involved in the com-
munity for many years," she said. "I've
been on the Eagan Planning Commission
for six years."
"I was concerned," Blomquist said. "To
sit back and do nothing is a defeatist at-
titude. If you really do care and feel strong-
ly. you can do it That's what's so beautiful
about America.
"The people's response was overwhelm-
ing. It was a very rewarding and warm ex•
perience. 1 found there were people who
cared as much as 1 Id
Blomquist said she tell there were Brame
things that needed to he said. and she said
them. "I want to see a community where ci-
ty hall, elected official+and myself serve the
community, acting as the voice of the peo
pie.
"'We need to work on the problems as
they come up individually." she said. "H e
are a conservatise cou'munits Vs have
Eagan Mayor Blomquist enthused about new job
I-9-5,0 AVRNsvit-Lc Cvur-Air
EAGAN MAYOR Bea Blomquist
held down taxes. and I would Iikc to con-
tinue doing that. We don't need any misuse
of spending, but 1 realize we are also a
growing community, and as we grow. there
arc going to be needs that must be dealt
with.
"I want to sec growth that is consistent
with Good planning. Our ptans for a trail
system base been weli•re.eived.
"Our services must no: be neglected."
+he said. "1 found a sers posttise response
about our poli .e department . The police
chief has done a sers responsible fob "
One of the main Issues Blomquist will
have to deal with as mayor is interstate 35E.
"It's got to go through." she said. "It's
inesitable. it's not just going to go away."
According to Blomquist the city filed a
brief with the Minnesota Supreme Court
last week supporting their original position
in favor of A-1. The A• 1 route crosses
Blackhawk Lake
• "Right now it's a matter of the court..
It's been taken out of Eagan's hands
because people have taken it there," said
Blomquist. "It's something we're not going
to have any say about. At this point I just
would like to see it resolved and not waste
the taxpayers money."
Blomquist is not so acquiescent about
another one of Eagan's hot issues. Maki.
Magic, a record and paraphernalia shop in
Eagan owned by Robin Geiger.
(he C:ty of Eagan and Geiger appeared
before the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals
Fndas , Dec. "in St Louis. Mo. A decision
has not yet been handed down on Geiger's
appeal of L.S. District Judge Donald
Alsop's September ruling in favor of
Eagan's ordinance agatnst the sale. posses-
sion, transfer and display of drug -related
des ices.
Although Blomquist is optimistic about
the outcome, she plans to fight Geiger all
the way it necessary .
"If we don't have enough funds, we'll
have fund raisers. It's going to be costly,
but we've got to continue." she said. "This
is more than just a local issue. It's of na-
tional concern. Even Carol Burnett is doing
this in California."
Blomquist said it doesn't make sense that
devices used for illegal purposes he sold
legally.
"Pot is illegal and unaccepted." said
Blomquist. "If it were accepted there
wouldn't be all these movements against
these shops."
She cited the actions of communities all
over the country against the sale of
paraphernalia and said she saw a blurb on
the national news on Channel II about the
movement in Los Angeles.
"I was amazed that there was nothing
about Eagan on it. We're further along
than they are," she said. "I'm so proud of
us because of where we are and what we've
done. There's something out there national-
ly and we're going to reach for it and find
it.'
Blomquist'+ enthusiasm tor cornmunit'
involvement equals her lettings against
Mak'n Magic. She said she wants to create
a community that acts like a communiis,
working together and sharing.
"One of my goals for the near future is
finding myself and the community par
ncipating together in +artous things. like
planting trees on the major thirouehtares
on Arbor Das."
Blomquist also is considering all extetr-
lion of Eagan's July 4 celebration and
presently is trying to transfer her en•
thusiasm to the rest of Eagan
One of the July events that particularly
interests the Blomquist family is the old car
parade. The Blomquists are in the process
of restoring a 1922 and a I927 Dodge.
hopefully in time for the celebration. She
has even bought some clothes to go alon
with the time period of the 1922 and is It
mg for some to go along with the 1927
"1 think there are many people with ii
kinds of interests. Even if they don't active
ly participate. they enjoy relating hack to
their history and origin. their past, culture
and heritage." she said.
"I know these are things that you
perhaps wouldn't call the masor's duties."
said Blomquist, "but they really are.
'e ou-ve got to speak up and get things going
in your community to make it one."
EAGAN
Mayor's vote wasn't a conflict of interest
• City attorney: Awada's
sign business didn't
require disclosure
AMY SHERMAN STAF WRITER
Eagan Mayor Pat Awada. who owns a
sign company, did
not have a conflict
of interest when she
voted to schedule a
meeting on signs,
according to the
city attorney.
In August, the
City Council unani-
mously voted to set
a public bearing to
discuss a sign ordi-
nance Nov. 21.
Scheduling a public
discussion on an issue over which the
council has legislative authority can
Awada
never be a conflict of interest, attorney
Jim Sheldon wrote in a recent memo.
Eagan OPEn — which stands For
Eagan Organization for Process Enlight-
enment — said that Awada should have
disclosed that her business sells election
signs before voting. Three City Council
candidates bought signs from Awada's
company: Duey Bendt, Cyndee Fields and
Shawn Hunter.
Council Member Sandra Masin, who
brought up the issue at last week's coun-
cil meeting. said the mayor should have
laid the issue on the table before voting.
Awada said she didn't bring it up
because she knew it wasn't a conflict of
interest. The mayor said she and the
public are tired of Masin's attacks. The
two elected officials often disagree.
Nor will it be a conflict of interest for
Awada to vote on the sign ordinance
itself, Sheldon said. For a conflict to
MAYOR CONTINUED ON ZB
SIGNS
The City Council
wanted to waft to
discuss signs
until after the
election because
It wouldn't be talr
to change the
rules amld a
campalgn, Mayor
Pat Awada sald.
sip, ,)l
'i LLL d
is charm for Klondike Kate
Star Trbute photo by Jeff Wheeler
Moments after being selected as the 2001 Winter Carnival's Klondike Kate last Wednesday, an ecstatic Wendy Mausof, left, got a hug from 2000
winner Judy Sell. As winner, Mausoif will make as many as 200 appearances in the coming year,
Year will be a frolic, for new portrayer of 1890s good-time gal
She flings the black os-
trich -feather boa around
her neck, fluffs up her ruf-
fled red satin dress, then tugs
down on the bust line, just a
little, to get that cleavage thing
going.
Wendy Mausolf — Klondike
Kate 2001 — is ready to hit the
stage.
Chosen last week during a
lively and boisterous competi-
tion, Mausolf will represent St.
Paul and the Winter Carnival dur-
Around
St Paul
Jot Kimball
ing the next year in her rollicking
reincarnation of an 1890s dance -
hall singer.
Klondike Kates have been part
of the Winter Carnival for 30
years; the tradition is based on
•the story of Kathleen Rockwell,
who got famous during the Yu-
kon Gold Rush days.
Most years, the winner is a
mature woman who can belt out
a raucous tune while sashaying
across the stage and flirting with
the men in the audience.
Mausolf — a 45-year-old mar-
ried mother of two who works at
a small advertising agency — says
she fits that bill. And she was
thrilled to sing "Nobody Knows
What a Redhead Mama Can Do"
to hundreds Wednesday night in
the Landmark Center.
'I first saw the Klondike Kates
at the State Fair six years ago;
they were performing and asked
me if I'd like to take part in the
contest," she said. "But my kids
were still quite young and 1 didn't
think I could make the commit-
ment." Potential contestants are
warned that the winner must
make as many as 200 appear-
ances during the year.
ST. PAu, coolimoss ea Di
rea Tor tau of evlaence.t
Given the fact that no real damage
me burden of 1 b misdemeanor cases. tnougni me ctty �1'ley would take the dgrou�?
After all, 20 or more other ISAG-related opportunity to say, 'The judge was too
artin Luther King Jr. Day
include speeches, rally
the anniversary of
lath annual
:30 to 9 a.m.,
.Jesse Jackson
ent is sold out.
tom 8 to 9 a.m.
nel 17. The St
a live broadcast
Summit Av., St_
High School
Paul. March to
am at 11 a.m.,
y. 235 Hamline Av.
call 651-642-
will present a
Id tales at 2
3rd St Free. For
aniel, 2 p.m.,
Hopkins Community Library,
22 11th Av. N. Free. For more
information, call 952-930-
2740.
Program after the Min-
nesota Timberwolves' 2.30
p.m. game, including music, a
dramatization of one of Kings
speeches and an appearance
by gymnast Dominique
Dawes. Free transportation to
and from the Target Center in
Minneapolis will be available
on Metro Transit buses for
anyone with a game ticket For
more information, call 612-
673-1636.
Tribute to King, including a keynote address by
Walter Fauntroy, former District of Columbia delegate to
Congress, and humanitarian awards, 7 p.m., Basilica of
St. Mary. 16th St and Hennepin Av. S., Minneapolis. Free.
For more information. call 612-341-7330.
Martin Luther King Jr.
was born Jan. 15,
1929, In Atlanta.
ducing your
ning-of-year
s.
ay offers growing businesses great new prices for the
of these PCs specifically for your company: from the
arm V933se with the Intel` Pentium` III processor, to
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Star Tribune photo by Jeff Wheeler
Klondike Kates from previous years — Including, from left. Cyndy Cheyne. Judy Sell and Barbara Sorensen — entertained the crowd durktg the Judges'
deliberations at the pageant last week at the Landmark Center In St. Paul. Each year, the winner represents St. Paul and the Winter Carnival In a
racking portrayal of an 1890s dance -hall entertainer.
Funeral Notices
?cations: To place a paid classified notice call 612-673-4130; Fax 612-673-7435
e V., ape 80. of
Center. Preceded
husband, Leon
rved by daughter
law, Renee & Ron
nieces and nepli-
Service Tues-
at Gearty-Del-
nsdale Chapel.
West Broadway.
Sunset Memori-
Visitation Monday
t the funeral home
irty Delmore
-537-4511
trem)
N (Estrem)
e 87 of Coon Rap
eded in death by
Arthur; sisters.
n Bonar, Hazel
brother. Law-
evived by daugh-
ra Sansone (Ed);
ghters. Kimberly
and Kettle
s (Mike). great-
n. Nathaniel
ors; brothers,
and Richard
many nieces,
g, relatives and
Funeral service
fednesday al the
n-McReavy Se-
lpei, 1827 Coon
vd.. Coon Rapids.
1 how prior to
nd 4-7 PM Tues-
le Chapel Inter -
Snelling National
Sum McReavy
Tian Chapel
-767 1000
242 obit res&Frrrmere
Forth
Christine Merge et Font).
ape 47, 01 St. Patin, died
pm:sflify in her home m
the presence of her felinity
on Jan, 11,2001 Preceded
in death by father, Edward
and brother, Michael. Sur-
vived by daughter, Karsten
Elizabeth Lesley of S1.
Paul; mother. Bernice of
Wdkamslown- MA. broth
ers, Douglas of Clearwater.
FL and Gerald of Healds-
burg. CA and snlers. Kath-
leen M Harwood of Wil-
hamslown. MA and Cecelia
Shank of Hagerstown. MO:
and numerous nieces and
nephews. She was born in
1953 in Lancaster. PA. and
graduated in 1971 from the
Waynesboro (PA) Area
Senior High School. She
received a BA degree in
1975 from Northwestern
University in Evanston, IL.
where she was active in the
theatre department She
was an active member of
SI Joan of Arc Church in
Minneapolis and was a lov-
ing mother, daughler, sis•
ter and }Wend who dis-
played great exuberance
and took lay in everything,
especially her daughter
Karsten. She will be missed
by many. Visitation will
take place Sunday. Jan 14,
from 51o8pmatFail Me-
morial Funeral Chapel.
4343 Nicollel Ave , Mpls
Visitation will also take
place Monday. Jan 15, at
10 am at St. Joan of Arc
Church, 4537 3rd Ave S.,
Mpls . followed by a Mass
of Chnstian Bunal at 11 am,
also at St Joan or Arc
242 011ikinheaFirerais
Kennedy
Gatdie Mary, of Edina, MN
Boni September 25. 1919.
Passed away January 8,
2001 in Edina. MN. at the
age ol 81 Preceded in
death by husband of 49
years. J Paul Kennedy.
Survived by son, John P &
wile Mary of Eden Prairie,
MN..dau titer, Knstne M.
Hudson of Sunnyvale, CA.
grandson. J Paul III of Ma
Ube. CA and granddaugh-
ter, Layne M. o1 Eden Prai
rie. MN; brother, Alice
Horst of Montevideo. MN
and sister, lone Daly of
San Jose. CA.
A special thanks to all the
stall at Sunnse Assisted
Living in Edina. MN. who
supported Goldce during
the last 6 months of her
Ide Goldie wanted to be re-
membered as the vibrant
and energetic person she
was prior to suflenng her
first stroke in September
of 1997
A pnvate service was held
for Goldme's immediate
'amity on January 13, 2001
at The Cremation Society
of MN. Edina, MN Special
information for her rela-
tives and close Inends will
be forthcoming by mail. In
lieu ol flowers, memorials
preferred to Minnesota
Stroke Association. PO
Box 47504. Mills. MN
55447. (800 647-4123) .
Kullberg
Ronald. age 74 of Glen,
MN and formerly of Lake
Minnetonka area on Thurs.
at his home Graduated
from Mound H S and resi-
dent of Lake Minnetonka
area since 1939 He was a
former member of the
Mound Rotary Club and
Jaycees. He and 11is wile
Audrey owned and operat-
ed Ronnie's Cleaners in
Navarre for 28 years before
turning it over to the family
and retiring to Glen He is
survived by his wit
242 Oblkarfeea Funerals
Markusen
Nathalia(Johannsen),age
104. Survived by daugh-
ters, Betty ( Bill) Barry and
Judith (Irv) Post of FL, 4
grandchildren and 6 great-
grandchildren: 1 niece. 2
nephews and many loving
Johannsen and Markusen
family members
Funeral service 11 00 AM
Tuesday at St Peelers
Lutheran Church. 4600 E
42nd Si Interment Lake-
wood Visitation at the
Church Tues. from 10 to 11
AM. Memorials preferred
to St. Petters Church.
Moms Nilsen Chapel
612-869 3226
Mathisen
Genevieve M . age 78 of NE
Mpls. Full notice Tuesday
Selman, Hunt
612-789 3535
Milton
Evelyn L , 93, of S1. Louis
Park passed away January
13, 2001 Preceded In
death by husband. Howard
and daughterin-law. Judy.
Survived by son. Howard;
granddaughters. Dawn
Gritty (John) and Becky
Pierce (Jim). and 2 great-
grandsons. James and Jer
emy Pierce Funeral ser-
vices 11 AM Wednesday.
January 17 at Enga-White
Funeral Chapel, 5600 Ex-
celsior Blvd at Hwy 100
with visitation ih hour prior
to service. Private inter-
ment. The family wishes to
express their hearilelt
thanks to the staff of
Westwood Care Center for
their great care
Enga-White 952 929 7876
Pedersen
fiefs C., age 86. formerly of
Golden Valley and Augus
lava Park Center Apart
ments rn Mpls Preceded in
death by wile. Evelyn G
Pedersen. Survived by
242 OOikrwiwal9rierale
Ricke
Maxine L.. ape 68, ol Rich
field passed away Wed.
Jan. 10. Visitation Thurs ,
Jan. 18. 9-5. Stennes
Funeral Home. E. Grand
forks, MN Funeral Fri.,
Jan 19 Memorials
preferred
Rochow
Robert John Rachow,
"Rob". We 35, of Crystal
Passed away on December
28. 2000, In Pattaya, Thai-
land. Owner o1 Roko Publi-
cations. Survived by par-
ents. Robert Lee (Marsha)
Rochow and Susan
(George) Volta; children,
Demta and Mackenzie Ro-
chow and their mother, Jill
Omann; sister, Elizabeth
(Tom) Sundquist. step
brothers, Blake Voila and
Eric Unterseher. Memorial
gathering Thursday Bprn
at the Crystal Lake Funeral
Home. comer of Penn &
Dowling Aves. lib.. Mpls.
Maniere" Mtge Friday. 10
am al St. Alphoneus Par-
ish, 7025 Haelax Ave. No..
&ooktyn Carter (2 bb E.
of Brooklyn Sled,) Privets
family enema* St. Vin-
cent Cemetery, Osseo.
MN Memonalspreferred
Crystal Lake Funeral Horne
612 521 3677
Schmidt
Joseph G , age 85, of
Burnsville. died on Jan 14,
2001. Full notice Tues.
Klecatsky & Sons
651 454 9488
242 Obaaralse&Fwrds
Thornburg
Lewis W "Pete"
age 79, of Mpis.
on Ja13,
2001. Memnuaryber of
Local 190L and
the VFW Preceded in
death by his wife, Evelyn
He is survived by his son.
Dennis Lueders of Soulx
Falls, SO, 5 grandchildren;
and 2 great-grandchildren;
brother. Roger (Lynda)
Thornburg; sisters.
Beatrice Bierkslrand and
Beulah Larsen Also sur-
vived by rnany loving
nieces, nephews. relatives
and friends Visitation 4 8
PM Tuesday at O'Halloran
& Murphy Funeral Home
(575 S Snelling Ave.. 5t
Paul) 651-698-0796 web
Vigil Service 7 PM Inter
merit al St. Peter's Catholic
Cemetery. Mendota 11 AM
Thursday followed by a
luncheon Memorials pre-
ferred to Fairview Universi-
ty Medical Center Cancer
Research or St Peter's
Historical Church
Trieschmann
John W . age 66, of Pierre,
SD. Full notice appeared
Sunday Mass of Chnstian
Burial Tuesday. 10 am. Our
Lady of Peace. 54th & llth
Ave 5. Gathenng o1 f nende
TONIGHT 5-8 pm at Henry
W. Anderson Mortuary,
3640 23rd Ave S.. and 1 /2
he before Mass a1 church.
612-729-2331
Wanshura
Ruth N.. age 78.
ofRed Wing, for-
merly or Bloo
mington Born
and raised in St.
Paul and a graduate of
Monroe High School. Vey
active in the Bloomington
community for over 40
years. Resident of Semi-
nary Plaza. Red Wing, the
last five years. and a mem-
ber of the Order of Eastern
Star Prece•ed in
246 faehh..ry Leb
61111 HAVEN - 6 PLOTS
9000 eawbo /63-55/-1491
252 Funeral Dirctora
Helpful
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Fridley 612-5T1-1300
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Plymouth 553 1411
O.E. Larson- Osborne
St PALL from B1
Most Klondike Kates didn't
tape it all on their first try
Those appearances are at pa-
rades, nursing homes and festi-
vals across the Midwest.
"Three years ago, though, I
realized that I really enjoyed en-
tertaining, and the kids were old-
er and 1 wanted to show them
the spirit of competition. Plus, I
wondered if I could do it. When I
was younger I used to sing with
a gospel team and with the
Sweet Adelines. and I wondered
if the old gal still had it."
She came in fourth that first
year and "had an absolute riot."
Last year she was second. "I
was surprised at my reaction
when I didn't win. I left in tears
and couldn't believe how much 1
wanted it," she said.
But the third time was the
charm.
Most winning candidates over
the years have been contest vet-
erans, said Cyndy Cheyne, who
was Klondike Kate in 1989 and is
now the Kate coordinator,
"Some win on their first try,
but more often it takes three,
four or five times. The record is
six." Cheyne said. You need
some seasoning. There's a cer-
tain look, a certain vulnerability
that gets to the judges. It's not
necessarily the most beautiful or
most talented; it's the whole
package."
The package usually involves
some heft.
"People tend to think of Kate
• as a larger woman, though we
I
At a glance:
Wendy Mausolf
Klondike Kate 2001
Age: 15
Family: Husband, Patrick;
daughters, Katie, 14, and
CarrieAnn, 12.
Education: Fridley High
School; majored in voice at
the University of Min-
nesota -Duluth.
) job: Media director/office
manager for JAM Advertis- .{
ing, a small business -to- 1
business agency in Coon
Rapids.
) Hobbies: Sewing — she's
the specialty costume
designer for an area dance
company; downhill skiing;
swimming.
did have a winner one year with
an average build," Cheyne said.
The package also requires a
touch of the temptress, because
the winner will be called upon to
portray a saloon siren.
"We come on to the men,
sure. But you always want to
involve the wife or girlfriend,
too," Cheyne said. 'We tell them:
"Don't worry. honey. We just
warm them up. You get to take
them home.' That's the unique
thing about Klondike Kate:
"There's a certain look, a certain
vulnerability that gets to the
judges. It's not necessarily the most
beautiful or most talentelc • it's the
whole package."
— Cyndy Cheyne,1989 Klondike Kate and coordinator of contest
Women like us, too."
Winning the contest tends to
boost a woman's self-esteem,
even though the contestants al-
ready are outgoing and ebullient.
Cheyne said.
"I had my 15 minutes of fame
and 1 thought: 'Maybe I am
someone special, someone
unique.' I've seen it happen to
others, too; almost overnight
there's more self-confidence,"
said Cheyne, who is leaving her
job as a clerk in the Eagan Police
Department this week to fight a
battle with bone cancer.
"I love to hear people say.
'Oh! The Kates are here!' I real-
ized 1 could walk into a room
and transform it."
Mausolf, who lives and works
in Coon Rapids, loves to sew and
made her own costume for the
contest, the satin number with
red and black ruffles and Tots of
sequins, and a black -and -red
corset over the top.
She said she loves her work at
the advertising agency and con-
siders herself "a real family per-
son." So she was anxious to hear
from last year's Klondike Kate,
Judy Sell, about whether it's pos-
sible to balance a family, job and
Kate duties.
"She said it's easy, because it's
so fun," Mausolf said. "I know
I'm up for it. 1 love to perform."
When her yearlong stint is
over next winter, Mausolf will
join the ranks of the Royal Order
of Klondike Kates, the group of
past Kates that performs at each
year's contest, and make dozens
of other appearances throughout
the year.
So she'll have plenty more op-
portunities to sing her "Redhead
Mama" song, which includes the
lyrics:
"To keep me from talking
without a muzzle is harder to do
than a crossword puzzle."
"After talking to me awhile,
you'll know that's definitely true
about me," she said.
— Around St. Paul appears
Mondays and Fridays in the
Star Tribune. Contact Joe Kim-
ball at 651-298-1553 or by e-
mail
joek@startribune.nom
88. of Aitkin. Sat.
ployee of Hia
aners. Survived
daughterinlaw.
Sandra Dahnert
daughters and
Barbara & Jim
Sandra 8 Jim
and Susan &
tier. all of Anion.
hidren. and 24
dchildren, and a
aka Skogland of
emonal services
ues . St John's
Church in Adkin
ay call at the
hour before the
rrangemcnes.
nsen-Root-
Funeral Home
218-927-2614
,Is, age 57. d
WI. forrrlery
MN. passed
' uary 11th,
:edndeath by
ister Ovaldson.
d by loving
David. caring
David, Elizabeth
n, mother, Ruby
10 sisters and
. Donna (Tom)
• Morris (Lynn )
Sandy (Duane)
Gaye (Richard)
• Bonnie (Larry)
ick, Floyd
) Ovaldson. Erroll
Ovaldson. Earl
Mary (Howard)
Eric Ovaldson:
leces. nephews,
s and friends.
of Chapter -'R"
emonal service on
, January 15th,
St. Patrick's
Church. Centuna,
Hatton Sunday,
14th, 5 to 8 pm at
Lateral Home. St.
Is. WI, also 1 hour
rvice at Church
Funeral Home
MIX F alis. WI
5 483-3141
Church. Memorials pre-
ferred to the hospice pro-
gram at Allma Hospitals
and Clinics or 10 a hospice
program of your choice
Gehrke
Lyle, age 73 of Backus.
died Jan. 12 at his home
Boni Jan. 3, 1928 in North
Dakota to Fred and Pearl
Gehrke.
Survivors include wile.
Sadie: daughters. Rene
Sawyer of Backus. JoAnn
Hamilton of Ranchester,
Wyoming. Viky Hein of
Littleton. Co.; 9 grandchnl-
dren. 2 great-grandchil-
dren. Services will be 2PM
Tuesday, Jan 16 at the
Church of the Nazarene in
Backus Fnends may can
Monday from 6 to 8PM at
Kline Funeral Home in Pine
River. Arrangements Kline
Funeral Home Pine Firer
Hedren
Michael J . age 26. passed
away on January 13, after a
lengthy illness. Survived
by wile, Yuka. parents.
James & Shannon; broth-
er. Patrck. grandparents;
and other extended family.
Graduate d the Untul sity
of Minnesota Resident of
Hoboken. NJ. Employed by
Prudential Securities
Memorial Service 2 pm
Wednesday. January 17.
2001 at St. Nicholas Epis-
copal Church. 7227 Penn
Ave So.. Richfield Memo -
nabs prelerred to Make a
Wish Foundation. 5201 E.
River Rd, Mots . MN 55421
Hite
Anna V , age 90. of Rob-
binsdale. F uli notice later.
Gearly Delmore
763-537.4511
Huesers
Lloyd Huesers, 72 01 Plym
outh. Former long time
Minot. NO Teacher and
Park Board Member, died
Sat. at a Golden Valley
Nursing Home Surviving
local family. wife, Anna
Mane. Plymouth; daugll-
lers. Klara, Mpls. and
Ctwistine, New Hope: sis-
ter, Dorothy. St. Louis
Park. Memorial Service
Tues. 7PM al Medicine
Lake Luterhan Church,
Plymouth. Thomas Family
Funeral Home, Minot, NO
1-800-228-3588
ey. sons andaugh
ters in-law, Bruce & Cherie
of Isle. MN.. Keith 8 Deb
and Craig & Pat, both of
Mound. sister Patty Skaret
of Mound & Vema Ulneh of
Phoenix. Al, grandchil-
dren, Chad. Geot1. Ryan.
Natalie, Nicole, Danielle.
Renee 8 Kali He was a
member of the Bethesda
Lutheran Church in Malmo.
MN Memorial services
5 30 PM Mon at St. John's
Lutheran Church in Mound
Interment Mound Union
Cemetery. Friends may call
at the church 1 hour before
the services. Memorial
may be given 10 the
Bethesda Lutheran Church
in Malmo.
Arrangements are with the
Sorensen -Root.
Thompson Funeral Horne
n Ankn.218.927-2614
Lawless
Patrick A., age 47. of Apple
Valley 20-year employee
al Ecolab. Survived by
wile. Beverly. son. John;
daughter. Megan (Paul)
Watts: parents. Harry and
Evelyn Lawless: brothers,
John (Mary) and Steve
Lawless: sisters. Maureen
Belzer and Mary Beth Rich-
ards: 7 nieces and neph-
ews. Service 1010/0176en
to Idbw.
Henry W. Anderson
952-432-2331
Sw CK.u, age 56, of New
Hope died 1 / 11 /01. Sur-
vived by wife. Mae; chil-
dren. Cindy and Albert;
brother. Stu Tong, sisters,
Virginia Kay Ming, Kate C.
Kee and Evelyn L Cheurg
A funeral service will be
held TODAY 1 / 15/01 al 12
noon with a visitation 1
hour prior to service
Cremation Society of MN.
7835 Brooklyn Blvd..
Brooklyn Park.
763-560-3100
Lockwood
Audrey A , on January 13,
age 68, of New Brighton
Service and visitation will
be Friday afternoon. Corn -
plete notice Tuesday.
MUEILER-BIES
651-487-2550
Gunderson, Clamar, IA.
Elwood (Pat) Pedersen,
Grand Rapids, MN, Conrad
Pedersen, Mpls, Claris
(Brad) Jones. Manitou
Spnngs, CO; 6 grandchil
dren. 1 great-grandson;
sister, Margaret Grolhe,
Waseca. MN. Mary Bonk
rude, Litchfield. MN. Elna
Rysdahl, Fairmont, MN;
brother. Dr. Ruben
(Helen) Pedersen, Mpls.
Trdvellinp Evangelist with
the Lutheran Evangelistic
Movement for over 30
years. Service Wed .
10 am, Morgan Ave. Lu•
theran Church, 240 Mor-
gan Ave North. Visitation
Tues., 5-8 pm. Albin Cha-
pel-Mpls, 2200 Nicollet
Ave S. Interment Glen Ha-
ven Memorial Gardens.
Memorials preferred 10 do-
nor's choice or World Mis-
sion Prayer League. Mis-
sion Aviation Fellowship,
or Lutheran Colportage.
Albin Chapel. Minneapolis
Ralph, Jim 8 Dan Albenson
(952)914-9410
PAndrew 'Andy" Emerson
Proper, age 20 of Prior
Lake. Accelentli#y on Jan.
13. 2001. Full notice Tues.
Ballard -Sunder
Pnor Lake 952-447-2633
For information
About These
Classifications
242 Obituaries &
Funerals
244 Cards of
Thanks
246 Cemetery Lots
248 Crematones
250 Flonsts
252 Funeral
Directors
253 Gnef & Loss
Counseling
254 In Memonam
256 Monuments &
Markers
258 ProbateiEstate
Planning
Please Call
Mon -Fri, 8:30am-5pm
673-4130
Grant 0. Sedgwrck. Age 87,
died on Jan. 14, 2001. He
was preceded in death by
his dear daughter Pnscdla.
He is survived by Flora, his
beloved wire of 59 years
and by his son Peter of
Stockholm. Sweeden, and
by his daughter Sara of
Nashville, 1 N
Grant's childhood was
spent in Hutchinson. MN.
Auer his family moved to
Mpls., he attended Roose-
velt M.S., graduating as
valedictorian in 1931 His
next years were at the U of
M where ho received a
Bachelor's degree, with
distinction, in Chemical En -
gneenng in 1936 After
some post -graduate stud-
ies at the U of M. he started
work tor Archer Daniels
Midland (that branch of
ADM was later combined
with Ashland Chemical
Co.) where he spent his
entire career as a research
chemist
In June. 1942 he was mar-
ried to Flora Petersen Dur-
ing the years of 1943-46 he
served as an officer in the
USNR i1 the tied of avia-
bon ridsr. after which he
returned to MPle. and his
work In research with
Ashland Co
In 1982 Grain and Flora
moved to Cape Cod, MA.
where they spent seven
happy Years near the
ocean In 1969 they moved
back to Mpls. in order to
lore at Covenant Manor in
Golden Valley where he
resided until his death.
Memorial Sconce at Beth-
lehem Covenant Church on
Monday, Jan. 15 at I DAM
Spooner (Tweed)
wne L.. age 60. of Mule
Plan formerly al Excelsior.
Funeral Service 1 PM
Tuesday, January 16, 2000
at Mt.. Calvary Lutheran
Church in Excelsior. 301
County Road 19. Visitation
5-8 Monday PM (TODAY)
at David Lee Funeral Home
and also one hour pnor to
service at church Inter-
ment Woodside Cemetery
in Shorewood
David L ee Funeral Home
Wayzata 952-473-5577
sband. Paul J.. son
John Paul. and brother.
Hon Johnson. Survived by
two warns, Jim (Kathryn),
and Gordy (Sheila): seven
grandchildren: Scott
(Shannon). Todd (Krki),
John, Tyler, Alex, Colin and
Natalie Wanshura: tour
great-grandchildren: Joey
Katie. Louie and EIli: broth-
er, Robert (Una) Johnson.
and many nieces and neph-
ews. Pnvate services and
interment. Visitation Mon
day 5 8 PM al Gill Brothers
Funeral Chapel. 9947 Lyn -
dab Ave S. Memorials pre-
lerred to Abbott North-
western Hospital Heart
Institute.
GILL BROTHERS
952-888.7771
Woodfill
Shirley R.. age 78, of
Crystal Preceded in death
by son. Kerry. Survwed by
husband. Perry: children.
Brent Woodflll & wife.
Melinda. Wendy Woodlill 8
husband. Dan Neumann,
Kirk Woodfill 8 wife,
Debby, Tracy Parzyck &
husband. Bob: grandchil-
dren, Brent. Regina. An-
ders. Brooke, Gregory,
Alma. Ryan. Julia. sisters.
Thelma France of Missis-
sippi and Margie Hogan of
Tennessee; nieces. neph-
ews. other relatives and
friends Mass -of Christian
Bunal Tuesday 10:30 an al
the Church of Si. Margaret
Mary. 2225 Zenith Ave.
No., Golden Valley. inter-
ment Gethsemane Ceme-
tery. Visitation Irom
pm Monday with prayer
service 7 pm at Gearty-Del-
more Robbinsdale Chapel,
39th 8 W est Broadway and
al church 1 hour before
Mass. Special thank you to
North Ridge Care Center
and North Memorial Hospi-
tallor their loving care.
"I believe in Angels"
Gearty-Delmore
763-537-4511
246 Lot'
5Rf*TAL Labe (;err, ? spaces
5act B 75, across horn ch5U0i.
5750 sa 763 694 9946
2301Control NE 799 3571
EVANS-NORM
533 3(XX) 424-4000
MORRIS NILSEN
652 / P«+land 612 869 3726
254 in iiirmdiffi
IN MEMORIAM
II is ate °mom or miry per-
son to pubbh an b Minor
lain verse ea a token d re-
Spee1 b tM uriel'ory d Fel
wlto ire 9oiw.
Meaner el an ad In lillereer
rem a addle* anilaren
In correct
eiv
be
anlg aMl dA
t3o
IN LOYINO CI ITMEMIiORY OF
JIM
Jan. 15,1955 Aug 16.1996
"You are truly mussed."
low. Boo (Connie) a Aaron
I shah be
telling this
with a sigh
Somewhere
ages and
ages hence:
Two roads
diverged in
a wood, and
I— I took the
one less
traveled by,
And that has
made al the
difference.
Hobert Frost
EspressFest changes name
n csrrtoNt — .qp- cy
Expressfest, on July 28-
29, to showcase wider
array of music, feature
other art forms
By Joshua Nichols
Sun Newspapers
When it comes to the annual
Art House Expressfest in
Eagan, the name isn't the only
thing that has changed.
Expressfest 2000, which
kicks off Friday, July 28 and
continues the following day,
has been officially taken over
by the Dakota County Arts and
Humanities Council, a commu-
nity -based, non-profit organi-
zation whose purpose is to de-
velop, promote and encourage
participation in and apprecia-
tion of creative arts and hu-
manities.
For its first four years, the
EspressFest, as it was know,
was sponsored by Maggie's Cafe
Espresso.
"When we took over this
year, we decided to change the
name to Expressfest because
we wantpeople to come here to
express themselves through the
arts and have a good time; said
council president Kay
Gustafson.
FEET: To Page 11A
Fest
From Page IA
With the arts and humanity council
taking the reins this year, the former
blues and R&B festival has expanded to
embrace all forms of art and a wide array
of musical tastes, Gustafson said.
'We kind of took that and moved in a
whole different direction entirely," she
said. "We have all areas and all age
groups represented and we hope to get
even more people out here."
The event will begin with a silent auc-
tion and gallery opening at the Eagan
Art House, 3981 Lexington Ave. S. The
proceeds from the event, which costs $25
to attend, will go to benefit Dakota Coun-
ty Arts and Humanities Council pro-
grams.
The majority of the events come Sat-
urday, led by an 8:30 a.m. start for the
Fun Run/Walk for the Arts in Patrick
Eagan Park.
However, because of flooding in the
park, Gustafson warned the event may
have to be rearranged or done away with
all together in favor of other recreation-
al activities such as bocce ball or croquet.
Throughout the day, from 9 a.m. to
4:30 p.m., art activities for the entire
family will take place at the Art House
and in the nearby park.
Scattered around the Art House and
the park will be art stations featuring re-
productions of the work of Picasso, Ma-
tisse and other famous artists.
The Saturday schedule also includes a
11:30 a:m. picnic performance try the
Eagan Men's Chorus and Women of Note,
the Eagan women's chorus, a 1940s-style
radio show at 1:30 p.m., and perfor-
mances of area garage bands from 4:30 to
6 p.m.
"The radio show will be a lot of fun,"
Gustafson said. "We have a real eclectic
group of people helping us out on that
show and they have really gotten into it."
The re-creation of a fictional 1940s
radio station, called W-ART, is coming to
life with the help of senior citizens, the
Eagan Historical Society, Eagan High
School drama students, volunteers from
Dakota Communities, a group serving
adults with disabilities, and other vol-
unteers.
The day will be topped with a nod to
the festival's old tradition, with blues
and R&B preformances by the Butter -
notes and Willie Murphy from 7 p.m. to
midnight.
"We hope to bring a lot of people and
families in to enjoy themselves,"
Gustafson said. "Lots of people are deal-
ing with the flood problems right now
and we hope they will come to this cele-
bration and have a good time.
Gustafson said she hopes that the up-
dated Expressfest will draw more atten-
tion to the growing Art House. The Art
House started with 40 students in 1997
and was up to 400 students in 1999.
The number of students served by Art
House classes and programs will rise to
around 800 by the end of this year,
Gustafson said.
With the festival being prepared by
volunteers, any profit turned over the
weekend will go directly to the Art House
and its programs, Gustafson said.
With so many different choices of
music and art during the festival,
Gustafson declined singling out any spe-
cific highlights of the event.
"I can't say that," she said while
laughing. "We just have so many great
things going on that are specifically
geared toward different age groups so I
think different people will end up liking
different events."
For more information on the free event,
contact the Arts and humanities Council
at 651-454-6755.
Eagan council member
declines re-election bid
S, n C� rrtrtiV 7+ fci - aG l
By Joshua Nichols
,;n 'dew<_{,aCti•s
Eagan will be getting at
least one new City Council
member following the Novem-
ber election as Councilmember
Bea Blomquist announced last
week she would not seek re-
election to the council.
Blomquist, who joined the
council in 1997 after serving as
Eagan mayor during the 1980s,
said her decision not to run
came because of her desire to be
more involved in local govern-
ment watchdog group.
`It is embarrassing to
serve with the present
council.'
— Bea Blomquist
"It is embarrassing to serve
with the present council,"
Blomquist wrote in a prepared
statement.
CANDIDATE: To Page 1 1A
www.mnSun.com
Ordinance
From Page 1A
During the meeting, council members
said they sympathize with the concerns
raised by residents, such as the expense
involved in erecting fences or planting
bushes to screen RVs and the hardship
placed on residents with smaller lots in
meeting setback requirements.
"The solution is worse than the prob-
lem," Councilmember Sandra Masin
summed up her argument at one point
during the meeting.
The Advisory Planning Commission
began looking at possible amendments to
city ordinances in 1998 at the recom-
mendation of the City Council, said APC
Chairperson Carla Heyl. Since the city
does not have any codes dealing with RV
storage on the books, it had no way to
deal with complaints coming in from the
public, she said.
Under the city's current codes, recre-
ational vehicles can be parked in
garages, on driveways, or alongside or be-
hind houses. Codes allow for residents to
park their RVs within 15 feet of a paved
road for up to 72 hours to allow for un-
loading and loading.
After the unveiling of the proposed
amendments, calling for certain setbacks
from adjoining properties and streets,
limiting where and how many RVs could
be stored on a residential property and
requiring screening in some instances,
the APC responded to residents' con-
cerns by making several changes.
The ordinance sent on to the City
Council during the APC's June 27 meet-
ing, cut back on the screening require-
ment, calling for screening of RVs parked
in side and back yards only when they
could be seen from contiguous properties
instead of abutting properties.
Contiguous properties are considered
those properties that touch one another,
while abutting properties include prop-
erties on the other side of roads and
streets.
The screening requirement called for
screening for at least 50 percent of the
vehicle's visibility and all the vehicle's
>1�pa Ih1eyrRosemount, Lupo Surrcrrrenl/WadNisday, Julyr 26, 2b00
length. The screening can be accom-
plished through fencing or plants.
Eagan resident Royce Tyre has ap-
peared before the APC to voice his con-
cerns over the proposed amendment and
how it affects the storage of a canoe he
keeps near a pond in his backyard.
Because he feels the screening re-
quirement would be too costly for his
canoe, he has since moved it to his drive-
way to protest the proposed ordinance.
He also posted a sign on his canoe read-
ing, "Eagan Encourages Storage on Dri-
veways."
"Although I think it looks worse in the
driveway, I am saving a considerable
amount of money while complying with
the APC's wishes," he said.
Another portion of the RV ordinance
that drew the ire of residents, was the re-
quirement that RVs must be set back five
feet from property lines.
It also set a 15-foot setback require-
ment from a public street for RVs stored
in driveways.
Although more than a 100 residents
attended each of the public hearings con-
ducted by the APC, less than 10 showed
11A
up for the public hearing portion of the
City Council's meeting.
Council members also agreed with
concerned residents that the city has not
adequately documented enough com-
plaints in the past to prove the need for
the ordinance.
According to senior planner Mike Ri-
dley, around 50 complaints regarding ve-
hicles, which includes automobiles and
recreational vehicles, were reported to
the city last year.
Most of the complaints regarding stor-
age of recreational vehicles were not kept
track of because they city does not have
specific ordinances to address it.
However, Ridley said that based on
his research the city has received 80 com-
plaints regarding vehicle parking over
the six-month period ending in April. Al-
though roughly half of those dealt with
automobiles, the other half concerned
recreational vehicles, he said.
During the June 27 meeting, resi-
dents criticized the city for not keeping
track of complaints regarding recre-
ational vehicle storage since the debate
over the issue began.
EAGAN
July 26, 2000
INDEX
Opinion Page 4A
Worship Directory..Page 24A
Let It Be Known...Page 25A
Calendar Page 27A
Sports Page 28A
Classifieds Page 1 B
City Council declines to vote on RV ordinance
Status left in air after
council can't agree on
when to further discuss it
By Joshua Nichols
Sun Nerrspapei
It appears Eagan residents
adamantly opposed to a pro-
posed amendment dictating
how RVs can be stored in yards
may have won their fight.
The Eagan City Council
could not agree during its July
18 meeting whether to bring the
ordinance back to the council at
a later meeting. The ordinance
was before the council for its
first public hearing at the coun-
cil level.
Previous public hearings be-
fore the city's Advisory Plan-
ning Commissi n (AI'CI on the
proposed amendment affecting
recreational vehicles, which in-
clude boats, campers, snowmo-
biles and trailers, were met
with high turnouts of residents
opposed to the changes.
Although the council could
decide to take up the ordinance
at another time, the council
members said they would likely
not approve it as it is written.
As she dealt with flood dam-
ages the week before the meet-
ing, Mayor Pat Awada said she
would rather see the vote on the
ordinance delayed. She recom-
mended during the meeting
that the council go ahead with
the public input portion of the
meeting, but 'delay an official
vote on the ordinance.
ORDINANCE: To Page 11A
2A Apple VaIsyRosamount. Eagan . July a, 2000
Irish children visit homes of suburban
By Merrily Helgeson
Sun Newspapers
In a serene Apple Valley suburb, July
12 passed quietly for two children from
Northern Ireland. Their host, Laurel
Kelly, didn't mention to them that an an-
nual Protestant -Catholic standoff was
going on in the streets outside their
homes.
'Why remind them?" she asked. "They
know about July 12."
On that day, every year for all these
children's lives and long before, Protes-
tant Orangemen have marched through
Catholic neighborhoods in Northern Ire-
land. In a state of constant sectarian ten-
sion, the anniversary of a July 12, 1690,
Protestant victory traditionally has been
the worst.
It was July 4th, instead, that brought
reminders of home. Eleven -year -old
Peter Thompson turned from the boom
and crackle of fireworks to begin telling
Kelly about running and hiding from
will not seek seat
Candidate: Bloomquist was mayor during 1980s,
From Page IA
"The council is floundering because of
lack of leadership. The widespread
knowledge of Eagan's dysfunction is
noted by citizens who find the process is
flawed.(
Incumbent Councilmember Sandy
Masin's seat on the council is also up for
election in November. She has decided to
run for re-election and will be joined by
six other candidates.
The seven -candidate field will be nar-
rowed down to four with Eagan's first
primary, set for Sept. 12.
Already active with the community
watchdog group Eagan Organization for
Process Enlightenment (Eagan OPEn),
Blomquist has set her sights on organiz-
ing another group dedicated to ethical
government. A state board member for
Common Cause Minnesota, she is help-
ing organize a local chapter of the group.
"I will work with others in the com-
munity of Eagan to educated the public
to improve our city's government," she
said. "I am a very busy lady, but I will find
time to work with my city in other ways."
Because of the "dysfunction" she
claims exists in the city's government,
Blomquist said she supports Eagan
OPEn's efforts toward establishing a
charter commission. Such a commission
would make recommendations on possi-
ble changes to Eagan's government.
Eagan OPEn is currently seeking
3,000 signatures to petition First Judi-
cial District Judge Leslie Metzen to ap-
point the council.
The state of Eagan's city government
as well as the charter commission could
prove to be topics for the seven council
candidates to debate during the cam-
paign.
Besides Masin, the other candidates
who have filed for election to the four-
year seats are Gale Anderson, Trygve
Behny, Duane "Duey" Bendt, Cyndee
Fields, Shawn Hunter and Meg Tilley.
Blomquist has had a tumultuous rela-
tionship with some of the other council
members, especially Mayor Pat Awada.
She accused Awada of making threats
against her late last year during a meet-
ing and again filed a complaint against
Awada earlier this month, claiming the
mayor had threatened her over the tele-
phone.
The Dakota County Sheriff's Office
decided that no criminal law had been
broken in the first complaint and has not
finished its investigation of the latest
complaint.
Blomquist also accused Councilmem-
ber Paul Bakken of being involved with a
cartoon circulated in 1999 that was crit-
ical of her.
Filings closed July 18 for all federal,
state and county offices. Those cities and
school districts without primaries have
filings open until August. Other candi-
dates who have filed for public office to
represent Eagan on a federal and state
level are:
• State Senate District 38 — Incum-
bent Deanna Wiener, DFL-Eagan, and
Eagan resident Mike McGinn, a Repub-
lican.
• State House District 38A — Incum-
bent Tim Wilkin, R-Eagan, will be op-
posed by former School District. 197
board member and DFLer Tom Weis-
becker.
• State House District 38B — Incum-
bent Tim Pawlenty, R-Eagan, will receive
competition from DFLer Gary P. Moore
will run against Pawlenty.
• U.S. House District 6 — Incumbent
Bill Luther, DFL, will face off against
Constitution Party candidate Ralph A.
Hubbard and Republican candidate
John Kline.
-� -qy
Cartoonist who upset�agan
leaders didn't break the law
By Mks !Iamb'
Star Tribune Stuff Writer
The case of Eagan's anonymous
cartoonist is over — at least for now.
The Dakota County Attorney's Of-
fice has declined to file criminal
charges over two cartoons by an
anonymous artist featuring the Eagan
City Council. The cartoons, mailed to
political leaders, lampooned the coun-
cil and in particular drew the ire of
Council Member Bea Blomquist_
The attorney's office said the artist
or artists have a constitutional right to
make critical comments about public
officials.
Charles Diemer, an assistant coun-
ty attorney, said investigators were
unable to determine who drew the
cartoons. Because prosecution in the
case isn't warranted, the office will not
continue to investigate their source.
Blomquist had consulted a hand-
writing expert, pushed for the investi-
gation and accused Council Member
Paul Bakken of at least participating in
the mailing of the cartoons. He said he
wasn't involved.
"It's very vicious," Blomquist said.
"It's very angry toward me."
The two cartoons, distributed last
month, depict the five -person council
during a meeting. One panel, with the
heading "What the Public Sees ...,"
has Blomquist talking under the words
"Blah, Blah. Blah, Blah ...."
In a second panel, under the head-
ing "What's Actually Going On ...,"
Blomquist is again talking, saying" .. .
and City Hall and the Aliens are team-
ing up against me to assess my
friends' streets, fluoridate the new
pool, and STEAL MY BRAIN!!"
Bakken, seated next to Blomquist,
is portrayed as thinking, "1 wonder if
she would shut up if 1 stabbed her in
the head with a pencil ...." Mayor
Patricia Awada is portrayed as think-
ing, "Only 11 more years and she's
OUTTA HERE!"
Blomquist said she may file a civil
suit over the cartoons.
Appls VaIleylRosemount, Eagan Sun•Current VeJnesday June 23. 1999 9A
anniversary at July 4 Funfest
City of Eagan celebrates
By Melinda Domzalski
Sun Newspapers
Are you ready for a toe -tapping, turtle
racing, thriller 4th of July?
From July 2-4, the city of Eagan will
entertain people with its 31st Annual
July 4th Funfest, at Sky Hill Park on the
corner of Blackhawk and Blue Cross
roads (near Highway 13 and Yankee
Doodle Road).
The festival is open Friday 4 p.m. to
midnight and Saturday and Sunday 10
a.m. to midnight. Every day of the Fun-
fest will feature a carnival midway, food
booths, turtle races, 4-H bingo tent,
games and the Lions Club beer tent.
Pat Thomas, the owner of Eagan Flo-
ral, said the festival is more than a time
of celebration, it's a reunion of the com-
munity.
'I love having the whole community
together," said Thomas. 'It brings the
small-town feeling back again because
it's very community run."
Along with the July 4th celebration,
the festival will honor the city's 25th an-
niversary with special events and deco-
rations.
On Saturday at 10 a.m. more than a
100 organizations will participate in the
31st Annual 4th of July Parade, orga-
nized by the Eagan Lions Club. The pa-
rade route will begin at the Diffley Shop-
ping Center. at the intersection of Diffley
and Blackhawk, and proceed north on
Blackhawk Road, ending at Sky Hill
Park.
Fire trucks, community churches and
the Eagan City Council are just some of
the organizations participating in the
parade.
Lions member and parade Chairman
Greg Ashfeld of Eagan said one of his fa-
vorite events is when the Zuhrah Cobra
Corps, a non-profit organization drill
team, does go-cart stunts in the parade.
"It's just a blast to watch them squeal-
ing tires and racing up and down the
street," said Ashfeld,
The theme of the parade — Rooted in
the past, branching to the future —
refers to Eagan's 25th anniversary as a
city.
Applications for the parade are still
being accepted. The Lions Club wel-
comes all groups to join the parade, in -
What's next
What: Eagan's 31st Annual July
4th Funfest
When: 4 p.m. -midnight Friday,
July 2, 10 a.m.-midnight Saturday
and Sunday, July 3-4
Where: Sky Hill Park, Blackhawk
and Blue Cross roads
Information: 651-452-4188
cluding neighborhoods, marching groups
and sports teams. For more information
call: 651-688-8131.
FUNFEST: To Next Page
svn („t ,3
Funny or not, cartoons satirizing
Eagan Council are free speech
By Jodi L Wallin
Sun Newspapers
Cartoons are meant to be funny, but humor
is often in the eye of the beholder. Or that of the
person targeted in the joke.
Bea Blomquist, a member of the Eagan City
Council, is not laughing over political cartoons
lampooning the entire council and mailed to an
eclectic group of city leaders and others.
Blomquist has told people that she thinks
that fellow Councilmember Paul Bakken is be-
hind the cartoons.
"1 am not the person who is sending these
things out," Bakken said when asked about the
allegations June 18.
Kevin Eide, Eagan city attorney in criminal
matters, requested the Dakota County Attor-
ney's Office act as special prosecutor for the city
of Eagan in light of a private investigation that
a council member might be a involved in the
mailings. This, despite that Eagan Police Chief
Pat Geagan, at Blomquist's request, had al-
ready consulted with the Minnesota Attorney
General's Office, the Dakota County Attorney's
Office and the Eagan city attorney and prose-
cutor two weeks earlier. They all had deter-
mined that the targets of the cartoons are pub-
lic figures and under the First Amendment
right to free speech, the cartoons would not be
considered criminal acts
The cartoons did end up on the county attor-
ney's desk for possible prosecution for defama-
tion of character and harassment, However, the
attorney's office found no cause to pursue the
case, based on the First Amendment. Since the
cartoons were a political satire of elected gov-
ernment officials, the cartoons are protected
under the First Amendment, according to the
County Attorney's Office.
Agencies outside the Eagan Police Depart-
ment and the County Attorney's Office will pur-
sue the matter, Blomquist said, although she de-
clined to identify what those agencies might be.
"Very clearly some action will be taken, it has
to be stopped," Blomquist said. "I've been told to
get a restraining order and will probably do that
as early as next week," she said in a June 18
phone interview.
"I haven't even started to pursue options that
are available to me personally," Blomquist said.
If Blomquist files any charges against
Bakken, the city is looking at defending him,
said Mayor Pat Awada. "Bea has filed or threat-
ened to file (legal charges) against nearly every
past or present council member and some city
staff — all of which have been dismissed,"
Awada said. 'This is a pattern for her."
Awada said she considers the cartoons to be
"merely satirical expressions of what is going on
with the City Council and are free speech.
"I think they are fairly funny," Awada said.
CARTOONS: To Page 18A
18A Apple VsNay/Rosemount, Eagan 6unsCur►ent/WednesdaY, June 23, 1999
Cartoons
From Page IA
"They don't portray any of us in a particu-
larly flattering light, but there is a bit of
truth to what they say."
The cartoons date to May 5 and May 8,
in which about 24 mailings were sent pri-
marily to Eagan city government staff and
some cartoons were displayed within local
establishments, according to an interview
Postal Inspector Ronald Miller had with
Blomquist on May 21. His report was then
given to the County Attorney's Office.
Blomquist reported the following chain
of events during that interview:
She said the first cartoon was mailed on
May 5, and it depicted her in an unfavorable
light. Other council members were depicted
making fun of Blomquisst's efforts as a coun-
cil member.
Blomquist told the postal inspector that
she reacted with shock, anger and surprise
and that she thought the cartoon "was not
funny."
don't think they are in jest," Blomquist
told the Sun -Current in a June 18 interview.
`Make no mistake — I am a victim" She
considers the cartoons "mean and hateful"
and containing a threat of physical harm,
she said.
Blomquist told the postal inspector that
originally, her primary suspect was Mayor
Pat Awada. The signatures of public offi-
cials are a matter of record and Awada's and
Bakken's signature were obtained by
Blomquist for comparison with the mailed
envelopes.
Blomquist told the postal inspector that
on May 12, Blomquist brought the en-
velopes and handwriting samples to hand-
writing examiner Ann Hooten from Min-
neapolis.
Blomquist told the postal inspector on
May 21 that she had been afraid to go to the
(May 18) council meeting because of the
news from Hooten that on May 17 she was
of the opinion that the handwriting on the
envelopes was Paul Bakken's.
The postal inspectors report states that
Blomquist said she had been avoiding
Bakken and that she is afraid of him. She
said she took his "threat to `shut her up' [in
the cartoon] as very real."
When she went to the May 18 council
meeting, city staff passed out a copy of an-
other cartoon so council members could see
what had been mailed in the community.
This one had the heading "Council ponders
ways to enhance the Grand Opening Cele-
bration of the new Aquatic Facility." This
cartoon also depicted Blomquist, and other
council members, in a negative light.
In the interview with the postal inspec-
tor Blomquist said the cartoon was -per-
verted." She said, "Bakken is demented"
and that "hell stare at me and id feel sick."
Blomquist further said that Bakken looks
at her with "hatred and contempt."
Postal Inspector Miller states that dur-
ing the course of the 2 1/2 hour interview,
Blomquist was "very emotional, often times
breaking out in tears."
After reading the postal inspector's re-
port. Bakken said, "I was shocked at the con-
nect t:he dots game she had constructed in
her own mind, based on this alleged incident.
Apparently I'm responsible for every rotten
thing that happened to her in the last year.
"It's hard for me to respond to the claim
that it is my handwriting," Bakken said. "I
haven't seen what she claims is my hand-
writing."
Since Bakken has run for state repre-
sentative, City Council and been involved in
other civic activities over the past year, he
said there is "no shortage of envelopes out
there with my handwriting on them ad-
dressed to all sorts of folks."
Blomquist would have had access to
Bakken's handwritten envelopes as she was
given three sets of hand addressed en-
velopes to send out during his state repre-
sentative campaign last year, he said.
Only one set was sent nut, Bakken said.
Blomquist had written a letter of support
for Bakken's campaign and was helping
him with it, said Bakken.
"I can't think of any reason she would
send them out," Bakken said. "But it could
be anybody, there are so many out there —
again presuming it is my handwriting."
The timing of the cartoon issue to come
close to the opening of the Cascade Bay
Aquatic Facility is suspect to Bakken. "She
chose to wait until right before the pool
opened — that makes you wonder," he said.
Blomquist voted against the development of
Cascade Bay.
"Evidently she has run out of things
about which to sue the city and I guess I'm
the next most convenient target," Bakken
said. It is not Blomquist's first attempt to
sue either the city or other members of the
council, Bakken said. Blomquist is current-
ly in litigation with the city over her road as-
sessments.
"To the best- of my knowledge she has
never succeeded with any of these claims
because they never have any merit,"
Bakken said. "It would appear she is a
recreational litigant, which makes her ex-
tremely annoying, but harmless.
"I've truthfully gotten to the point where
it's hard to stay angry with her," Bakken
said.
`Those of us who have been concerned
about the city and not our own personal
neighborhood will continue to do the busi-
ness of the city." Bakken said.
S..�_r-r<.it 63Jti97
Council denies
an assessment
interest refund
Councilmember Bea Blomquist
challenges status quo
By Jodi L. Wallin
Sin Newspapers
Keeping with state law and the city's own
policies, the Eagan City Council unani-
mously denied a request from a fellow coun-
cil member to refund the interest she paid an
a road overlay asssassment
Councilmember Bea Blomquist ap-
peared before the council as a member of the
public at the .June 15 meeting to request the
$144.59 in interest she paid on a special as-
sessment of $1,906.80 be reimbursed to her.
Blomquist could have paid the entire princi-
pal amount stemming, from the city's Oct.
20, 1998 assessment of Oak Chase Road by
Nov. 19 of last year without any interest pay-
ments.
However, Blomquist instead filed an ap-
peal of the assessment fee on that date_
'Her understanding was that, once the
notice of appeal was served, that the inter-
est would not be levied against her," said
City Administrator Tom Fledges.
However, under state law, assessments
which are not paid after 30 days from the
certified assessment date have the first in-
stallment certified to the property owner's
property tax rolls.
The amount in interest for which
Blomquist asked is accrued interest from
the date of certification of the special as-
sessment on Oct 20, 1998 to the end of 1999.
Records indicate that Blomquist paid the
principal with a check dated April 28, 1999
(after the assessment was put on the tax
rolls). She said that she should not have to
pay the entire year of interest on the loan,
since she paid the principal early.
Blomquist said she knew that it was state
law to asset in that way, however, she ar-
gued. state law aLso does not allow banks to
charge for interest that has not yet accrued
on bank loans and that the government
should not he allowed to do so, either.
"A five month loan does not merit charg-
ing the full amount [of interests" Blomquist
said.
"In order to refund this, we would have to
break the law?' asked Councilmember
Peggy Carlson.
"The city) does not have the right to go
against state law or to change it," City At-
torney James Sheldon told the council.
"They do have the right to refund to any cit-
izen if they have a legal reason."
"Ilas the city ever been in the business of
giving what amounts to an inter•-t free loan
as a personal favor?" Councilmember Paul
Bakken asked HedgQs'No" Hedges said.
Bakken said that Blomquist had hired
legal counsel before filing the appeal_ He
said Blomquist should have been aware of
the laws that require payment of interest on
assessments paid after the 30-day notifica-
tion.
"1 think this is an issue between the ap-
plicant and her attorney for not advising her
properly," Carlson said.
The refund would acme Crum the city tax-
payers, and would be an indirect way of mov-
ing special assessments to the tax rolls, said
Bakken.
Blornquist has argued at previous coun-
cil meetings, as a council member, that the
current special assessment policy is unfair
and that it should be placed on property
taxes for all property owners to be taxed
equally for all road overlays in Fagan.
As a member of the public, Blomquist has
filed a suit against the city over the assess-
rnent, and has a court date in Dakota Coun-
ty Court for Oct_ 14, 1999.
'The state law is followed by thousands
of property owners," said Mayor Pat Awada,
before moving to deny lilomquist's request.
It would be a nightmare ifthose people sued
the taxpayers of Eagan and then requested
an interest fry loan "
Jan Abbott:Sun Newspapers
EHS grad named Eagarn Royal Ambassador
Newly crowned Eagan Royal Ambassador Rose Samuel (left) and retiring
ambassador Sarah Grussing greet their young fans after the crowning at the
Yankee Doodle Arts and Crafts Fair on Saturday morning. Samuel is a 1999
graduate of Eagan High School and plans to study marketing at the University
of Minnesota's Carlson School of Management. Her parents are Mary and Peter
Samuel. See Samuel aboard the city's new royalty float at the Funfest parade on
July 3.
City councilwoman again alleges the mayor thr...
Page 1 of 3
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PUBLISHED: FRIDAY, JULY 7, 2000
Details
Council Member Bea Blomquist has twice accused Mayor Pat
Awada of making threats against her. In the most recent
episode, Blomquist said she felt she was going to be shot or
raped.
EAGAN
City councilwoman again alleges the
mayor threatened her
AMY SHERMAN STAFF WRITER
he long-standing conflict between Eagan City
Council Member Bea Blomquist and Mayor Pat Awada
sank to new depths this week when Blomquist told
authorities that the mayor had threatened her.
When asked to be more specific, Blomquist said she felt
she was going to be shot or raped, said Dakota County
Sheriff Don Gudmundson. Blomquist made that
statement in a taped conversation with a detective. The
council member called police to report the allegations,
but the case has been forwarded to the sheriffs office.
Asked about the situation by a reporter, Blomquist
initially denied knowledge of the incident and then said
that the matter was under investigation and declined to
discuss it. When asked about her fear of being shot or
raped, she said, "That's not quite what I said."
Blomquist's allegations stem from a Wednesday
telephone conversation with Awada. The mayor said
she called Blomquist to discuss a matter involving
council minutes and suggested creating peace on the
council. The conversation led to the upcoming election
and the mayor said she told Blomquist that a group of
citizens plans to publicize legal and ethical issues
T
http://www.pioneerplanet.com/neighborhoods/docs/037626.htm 07/07/2000
City councilwoman again alleges the mayor thr... Page 2 of 3
involving her past. The mayor said she is not a member
of the group. Blomquist has not announced whether she
is running for re-election; the mayor's seat is not up this
year.
Awada said she wasn't surprised by Blomquist's
decision to contact authorities. "Frankly, the last two
times I've tried to talk to her she's filed complaints
against me. She's filed complaints against numerous
people," Awada said. "I should probably stick to my
policy of not speaking to her."
Blomquist has called for investigations or said she has
felt threatened numerous times in the past. Some of
those incidents included:
• In June, Blomquist told police that a telephone pollster
was spreading false information about her. The case
was forwarded to the county sheriff and has not been
resolved yet.
• In December 1999, Blomquist reported that the mayor
threatened her after a council meeting, according to
police reports. During the spat, Awada accused her of
being involved with a highly publicized forgery case.
Police said the comments did not appear to be criminal
in nature.
• In June 1999, the Dakota County attorney's office
dropped a case regarding a political cartoon about the
City Council. In the cartoon, Blomquist is thinking " . .
. and City Hall and the Aliens are teaming up against
me to assess my friends' streets, fluoridate the new pool,
and STEAL MY BRAIN!!!" while Council Member
Paul Bakken contemplates stabbing Blomquist in the
head with a pencil.
Blomquist accused Bakken of being involved, but at the
time he said that he only wished he could draw that well.
• In November 1998, a newspaper clipping about an
anger therapy group for women was sent to Blomquist
at city offices. Derogatory language was written next to
the brief.
• In September 1997, Blomquist reported that a
flowerpot and a basket were placed in front of her door,
according to a police report. She also reported that the
door handle to her residence appeared to have been
http://www.pioneerplanet.com/neighborhoods/dots/037626.htm 07/07/2000
City councilwoman again alleges the mayor thr... Page 3 of 3
scratched. She told police that the incident might have
been in retaliation for her position on a proposed
cellular antenna.
ifelo
News Archives
Feedback
Blomquist was Eagan's mayor from 1980 to 1987 and
became a council member in 1997. Awada said the
conflict between her and Blomquist started in 1998 over
a dispute about Blomquist, a Northwest Airlines
employee, allegedly giving an airline pass to a city staff
member to attend a conference. Some members of the
council felt that was an ethics violation, and the city
reimbursed the airline for the ticket. Blomquist did not
feel she had done anything wrong. Blomquist has also
had conflicts with other council members. Despite the
negative politics, Awada said, "I want the citizens to
know that we're holding the city together."
Amy Sherman, who covers Eagan, Inver Grove Heights and
Rosemount, can be reached at asherman@pioneerpress
. Back to Ton .com or (651) 228-2174.
0 2000 PioneerPlanet / St. Paul (Minnesota) Pioneer Press - All Rights Reserved
coovright information
http://www.pioneerplanet.com/neighborhoods/docs/037626.htm 07/07/2000
Ai SAINT PAUL PIONEER PRESS
DAKOTA COUNTY
CAMPAIGN 2000
Filing period ends
Filings closed Tuesday for candidates running for federal, state
and county offices as well as for a few cities. Tuesday. a former
Ramsey County attorney slipped into the 4th Congressional
District race minutes before filings closed. PAGE 4B
SOUTH SUBURBAN
INSIDE
Briefings ....28, 58
Capitol report 38
Obituaries 78
Weather B8
Blomquist not running for council re-election
• She'll opt instead
for activist groups
AMY SHERMAN STAFF WRITER
Bea Blomquist will not run for re-
election to the Eagan City Council
because she wants to become more
active in government watchdog
groups instead.
Blomquist said she is organizing an
Eagan chapter of Common Cause, a
national organization committed to
ethical government. Blomquist is also
active with Eagan Organization for
Process Enlightenment, a local
watchdog group that is pushing for a
charter commission that would rec-
ommend changes within city govern-
ment.
"It is embarrassing to serve with
the present council." Blomquist wrote
in a prepared statement. "The council
is floundering because of lack of
leadership."
Blomquist rejoined the council in
1997 after a hiatus and after serving
as mayor for most of the 1980s. She
has had a particularly bitter relation-
ship with Mayor Pat Awada, whom
she accused of threatening her earlier
this month. That matter still is under
investigation.
Expect some of the council candi-
dates running this fall to call for an
end to the bitter infighting and end-
less string of spats among council
members. Other election issues —
including storm recovery, Cedarvale
redevelopment and airplane noise —
will strike a chord with certain neigh-
borhoods, but not necessarily the
whole city.
Three of the seven candidates will
be eliminated in the Sept. 12 primary
while the remainder will compete in
the November election.
Filings closed Tuesday for all fed-
eral, state and county offices. Some
cities and school districts will also
have elections this fall, but filings
will open in August.
Other Dakota County filings are
listed below. Incumbents are noted
with W.
LEGISLATURE
House District 25A
Heather Robins, DFL, Northfield
John Tuma, R, Northfield (i)
House District 29A
George Bateman, DFL, Hastings
FILINGS CONTINUED ON 413
INSIDE
Ramsey County
Board Member
Dino Guerin filed
for re-election
Tuesday, Just 10
days before a
judge decides
whether he can
retain the office.
On June 19,
Guerin pleaded
guilty to a felony.
Page 4B
1111E—
S WEDNESDAY, JULY 19, 2000
MENDOTA HEIGHTS
CRAIG BORCK/ PIONEER PRESS
ROSEVILLE
Joint upgra
eyed for tw
• City seeks ideas
for shopping,
activity centers
MARISA AGI4A
Roseville officials hope soon -to -
be -vacant land might offer a rede-
velopment plan for the aging
Hamlin Shopping Center.
The issue arose during a discus-
sion Monday on the fate of the
Roseville Activity Center, 2800
Arona St., after the city's parks
and recreation department leaves
the building for the Fairview
Community Center in October. The
center is moving because of health
issues and a deteriorating building.
Council Member Dean Maschka
suggested the city approach Ham -
line about some type of partner-
ship that would potentially merge
more leverage
Pis ci)
Newproperty upkeeprulesgive Eagan
• Complaints will
trigger warnings to
offending owners
AMy SHERMAN STAFF WRITER
The city of Eagan will soon have
more power to go after owners of
problem properties and force them
to clean up the exterior of their
hortaes and yards.
On Tuesday, the City Council
unanimously approved new restric-
tions regarding property upkeep.
which will go into effect in about a
month_ The goal of the rules is to
maintain the appearance of neigh-
borhoods.
The restrictions cover exterior
building features, foundation walls,
weeds, fences, large vehicle parking
as well as trash and firewood stor-
age. Many are common-sense rules,
such as wood stacks can't be rat -
infested, while a few are more
unusual, such as the finished side of
the fence must face outward.
The council's decision is good
news for residents who are frus-
trated after living near eyesores.
One Eagan resident said he lives
across the street from "a dump"
with peeling paint and an unkempt
lawn. At one time, there were dead
muskrats in the swimming pool,
he said.
City inspectors won't scour neigh-
borhoods in search of violators, but
will respond to complaints. if warn-
ing letters fail to get landowners to
fix problems. the city could take
violators to court. The same proce-
dure will apply to enforcing restric-
tions on the size, number and loca-
tion of accessory structures includ-
ing detached garages. sheds and
gazebos, which the council also
approved Tuesday.
The council had an amusing dis-
cussion about a proposed rule to
require that the color of sheds and
garages match the color of the
home. Council Member Bea
Blomquist questioned how the color
of a structure could affect health,
safety or welfare, unless of course
the color could make someone
crazy. That comment sparked some
giggles by her peers.
PROPERTIES CONTINUED ON 2B ►
DETAIL S
Citizens with
complaints
regarding
residential
property upkeep
and accessory
structures can
call a new code
enforcement
hot line at (651)
365-8143.
which will be
operational by
the end of next
week.
PROPERTIES
CONTINUED FROM 1B
Meanwhile, Mayor Pat Awada
came to the defense of little red
sheds and Council Member Peggy
Carlson pondered the right to
paint polka dots on her garage.
"Where are we going over the
fine line of people's rights to have
taste of their own?" Carlson
asked Of course Carlson said she
would prefer that owners of white
homes paint their garages white
rather than purple, but questioned
if she should have the authority to
require that.
Perhaps the issue isn't legislat-
ing good or bad taste, suggested
Council Member Paul Bakken, but
requiring homeowners' to be con-
sistent in their taste. Eventually
the council decided to scrap the
requirement for homes and acces-
sory structures to match in color,
which means citizens' rights to
paint their sheds any color of the
rainbow has been preserved.
Amy Sherman, who covers Eagan. Inver
Grove Heights and Rosemount. can be
reached at eshsrreane
pionearpress.eom or i651) 228-2174.
ITT
SAINT PAUL PIONEER PRESS
EAGAN
LOCA
SOUTH S
Panel approves looser parking rules
a New restrictions
would affect RVs,
snowmobiles, boats
t:AAR SHERMAN STD WRITER
J'any Eagan
'Ettizens still
dislike suggest -
;id' restrictions
ii1 recreational
1biele park-
(('hg, although
the rules are
more lenient
than an earlier
pf uposai.
About 60
residents attended a meeting Tues-
• day where the Advisory Planning
Commission gave the thumbs -up
• on the restrictions. which will
apply to boats, campers. snowmo-
bias and other recreational vehi-
ties. That's about half the number
of residents who attended a meet-
ing this spring to protest the origi-
' 1%1 proposal. In response to criti-
• ism from residents at that meet-
ing. the commission loosened the
rives.
The restrictions won't become
law unless they are passed by the
'City Council. On July 18, the coun-
cil will decide whether to approve
FOR MORE
To see a copy of
the restrictions,
go to www.city-
ofeagan
.com or pick up
a copy at the
Eagan Municipal
Center. 3830
Pilot Knob Road.
the following:
• Maximum of three recreation-
al vehicles on a single family lot,
no more than one may be 20 feet
or more in length
• In side and rear yards, vehi-
cles must be at least five feet
from lot line and screened
• No more than two vehicles
less than 20 feet or one vehicle 20
feet or longer may be parked on a
driveway or hard surface in a
front yard
• Vehicles can't be within 15
feet of the road
City inspectors won't search for
violators but will respond to com-
plaints. Rather than allow any
person in the city to complain
about a vehicle, citizens suggested
only allowing neighbors to call
about violations.
Critics also said that the 5-feet-
from-the-lot-line rule is unfair to
those who have narrow side yards.
Some homeowners have put down
a pad on a narrow side yard to
provide a place to park a vehicle.
City staff will explore whether in
those instances residents could be
exempt from the rule.
Residents argued that the city
had not received enough com-
plaints to warrant new restric-
tions- Last year. the city received
50 complaints about vehicles —
including automobiles and recre-
ational vehicles — that required
inspections. Additionally, there
were an estimated 80 calls about
recreational vehicles that did not
require any action because the
concerns did not appear to be
code violations, Senior Planner
Mike Ridley said.
Eagan currently has a few
restrictions on the books affecting
recreational vehicles, but the pro-
posed rules are more extensive
and clarify how to store the vehi-
cles outdoors. The purpose of the
new restrictions is to maintain the
appearance of neighborhoods and
protect property values.
Resident John Boentges said in
an interview that he wouldn't
want to live next to a yard with
junky vehicles, but he works hard
to maintain his yard and the fence
around his trailer. "I think they're
almost kind of penalizing every-
body for the few violators that
they have," he said.
If letters from the city don't
prompt offenders to fix the prob-
lem, the cases could go to court,
where violators could Face a maxi-
mum penalty of 90 days in jail
and a ;700 fine.
Amy Sherman, who covers Eagan. Inver
Grove Heights and Rosemount. can be
reached at ashsrman0
ptoneerprsss.com or (651) 228-2174.
NEWS
•
a
CAPITOL REPORT
CHAD PILSTER/GRAND FORKS HERAL
he Lafayette High School Band of Red Lake Falls, Minn.. serenades
ov. Jesse Ventura on Wednesday.
Traveling Ventura talks
f small-town tourism
On forth rural tour,
governor urges more
varied economic base
Za13:e1I:1--07 TAFF Rif R
DETROIT LAKES, MINN.
v. Jesse Ventura wrapped up
More than his office as gover
nor, it was Ventura's celebrity as
former wrestler and guest on
Leno-Letterman-"Good Mornin
America" circuit that drew peopl
to his appearances_ Chris Lindbur
and Tonja Johnson, young peopl
from Detroit Lakes, said they wen
SAINT PAUL PIONEER PRESS
BARKLEY
• CONTINUED FROM 18
retirement and into a part -tine
position in an attempt to raise the
office's profile.
Barkley is a respected third -
party activist who paved the view
for Ventura's 1996 victory with tis
own Reform Party campaigns in
1994 and 1996, and who served as
campaign chairman for Ventura in
1998. Minnesota Planning, with
about 80 employees, is charged
with a variety of research and poli-
cy functions. It is a perennial tar-
get for legislative budget cuts, and
Barkley and Ventura helped defeat
an attempt to slash the office's
budget again this year.
Barkley said he began recruiting
Palmer last year when the Legisla-
ture decided to fold the old Munici-
pal Board, which dealt with annex-
ation issues and boundary dispetes
among local communities, into the
planning office. He said Palmer
had some expertise in municipal
boundary legal issues. Barkley aid
Palmer had practiced law together
in Loretto, Minn.
Barkley said he Forwarded
Palmer's resume to an assistant
commissioner. who made the final
hiring decision and negotiated the
pay rate. A budget officer slid
Palmer works three days a wtrk
at a salary of $34,800 per year.
He said he called on Drewry t
year when the office's communica-
tions director took another job "1
had to beg her to come," Barkk '
said of Drewry, who is to walk
three days a week at a salary of
_13- .7(...c0 )" 'au/ tlie,7f4r rr esue
Neighbor's phone call saves family from fire
■ No one injured, but
home, belongings
damaged or gone
AMY SHERMAN STAFF WRITER
Corey MacDonald awoke to a
popping noise early Wednesday.
He laid in bed sleepily trying to
figure out the cause of the noise.
When he looked out his window,
he saw his friend's garage next
door was on fire.
MacDonald called 911 and then
his neighbor on McKee Street
near Lexington Avenue in Eagan.
Often Steve and Jane Tekautz
turn off their telephone so it
won't awaken their 22-day-old
son, Charlie. But for some reason.
Jane had left it on. After talking
to MacDonald, Steve went to
check and found his garage fully
engulfed in flames. The family
was able to leave the house unin-
jured.
Firefighters took a few hours to
extinguish the blaze, starting at
about 12:40 a.m. The fire spread
from the garage to the house_ The
family room was destroyed and
water and smoke damage
throughout the house. The garage
was ruined. in addition to three
cars and a boat. Tools, a snow
blower, lawn mower, furniture
and other items were destroyed.
The family has homeowners'
insurance_
The cause of the blaze is
unknown The Tekautz family
may stay with relatives and hope
to rebuild the home they have
lived in for about 2 4 years.
Amy Sherman. who covers Eagan, Inver
Grove Heights and Rosemount. can be
reached at .shaman@pioneerpr .s.com
or (651) 22S-2174.
URA
LINGS
STAFF COLUMNIST
B or not 2B
Glyph's gone,
long live Prince
lam so happy for Prince.
Or rather, in the creative
spelling style pioneered by the
Purple One, eye M so happy 4
Prince.
No doubt you heard the news
yesterday (news that made the
rising interest rate and the fire in
Los Alamos look like very small
potatoes indeed) that the Artist
known variously as the Artist For-
merly Known as Prince, The
Artist. TAFKAP, and by an unpro-
nounceable glyph his fans short-
hand as 0(+> — is now feeling in
a hopeful millennial mood.
He no longer wants to pout like
its 1999; he wants to forgive and
forget like ifs 2000. And he wants
U 2 call him Prince again.
It's about time, because he was
getting a little nutty. Even 4 him.
U may recall that this all started
back in 1992, when Chanhassen's
most famous homebody signed a
giant recording contract with
Warner Brns. and shortly thora.-
OC
SAINT PAUL PIONEER PRESS 5-` $- coo
BURNSVILLE, EAGAN
BRIAN LAMBERT
Lyden should apo
In the interests of accou
reporter Tom Lyden woul
advised to make an apol
viewers and his colleagu
SOUTH SUBUR
Increase in air traffic from
new runway called unfair
WHAT'S NEXT
The Metropolitan
Airports
Commission will
hold two more
informational
meetings next
week: from 5 to 8
p.m. Tuesday at
Eagan City Hall and
from 5 to 8 p.m.
May 25 at Royal
Cliff conference
center In Eagan.
TAMMY J. OSEID STAFF WRITER
Many Twin Cities residents might
be able to enjoy summers more after
2003, when the hum of airplanes over-
head shifts southward. But residents of
northern Burnsville and southwestern
Eagan aren't eager to bear the brunt
of the new air traffic.
Eagan and Burnsville residents who
attended two Metropolitan Airports
Commission presentations this week in
Burnsville said noise from a new run-
way improves the airport without any
compensation for the neighborhoods it
will hurt.
"What happens to our community?"
asked Mary Teske, who lives on the
Burnsville -Eagan border.
Metropolitan Airports Commission
officials said the new runway will
allow the airport to relieve noise bur-
dens faced by other communities,
including Minneapolis and Mendota
Heights. Although shrinking the affect-
ed area removes some residents from
the worst noise levels, it also means
PLANES CONTINUED ON 2B
Riding for his
LOCAL NEWS
SAINT PAUL PIO
SOUTH SUBURBAN
A COUNTY BRIEFING
Kenneth Richardson was
harged last week with first-
Iegree criminal sexual conduct.
round 6 a.m. on April 29,
Zichardson busted down the 27-
'ear-old woman's bedroom door,
orandishing a baseball bat and
ordering her to take off her
;lothes, according to the Dakota
',ounty criminal complaint on the
ncident.
The woman told police her
ittacker asked, "Do you want me
o kill you?" several times during
be assault.
Richardson grabbed the
oman's throat and raped her,
ccording to the complaint. He
'so allegedly struck the woman
n the left side of her face, where
bruise was still present during
lolice interviews. Richardson then
ipped out telephone and drapery
ords, which he used to bind the
wman's hands and feet together,
he complaint says.
Richardson, who police said
eld odd jobs in the metro area,
ifled through the woman's purse,
aking her cell phone, car keys
nd cash, police said. He then
trove off in her car and was
ater apprehended after he
(651) 552-4211.
- TIM CAREY, STAFF WRITER
DAKOTA COUNTY
No MVTA holiday bus service:
Minnesota Valley Transit Authori-
ty will not offer bus service on
Memorial Day The regional pub-
lic transit provider will offer lim-
ited service on Friday, May 26,
with some mid -day routes operat-
ing and express buses running on
a reduced -service schedule. Addi-
tional information is available on
the MVTA Web site at
www.mvta.com or by calling
(952) 882-7500 during normal
business hours.
- TIM CAREY. STAFF WRITER
WEST ST. PAUL
5K walk, jog, race set for
adults, klds: The South Family
YMCA's annual WOG, a 5K walk,
jog and race for adults and a 1-
mile fun run for kids, will be Sat-
urday at 150 W. Thompson Ave.,
West St. Paul. Entry fees are $12
for the 5K and S7 for the fun run.
Registration begins at 7:15 a.m.
Saturday in the lower parki
FROM PAGE 1B
PLANES
V CONTINUED FROM 1B
the airports commission won't
fund soundproofing for those resi-
dents.
"No matter where we locate a
runway . . . people are going to
call in and complain," said Jeff
Hamiel, the airports commission's
executive director.
But Teske and others say the
commission has broken a longtime
agreement with Eagan.
"We specifically designed our
community to mitigate noise,"
said Jamie Verbrugge, assistant
city administrator. Northern
Eagan, where most air traffic
flew, became the city's industrial
and business area while other
areas became more residential, he
said.
But the new runway, which will
be used for 37 percent of all air-
port departures and 17 percent of
arrivals, redirects traffic to resi- Current runway use
dential areas of Eagan as well as
much of Burnsville.
"We gave up part of our city in
the beginning. We didn't really
mind. It meant the airport would
have a long life." Teske said "So
it was really a very big shock
when the airport wanted to take
the rest of it."
Minneapolis-St.Pa
International Airpo
runway usage
Ille
OM K—leagsing
About 15 percent of the new
runway traffic will be focused
over Cedar Avenue, affecting
Burnsville's North River Hills
neighborhoods and Eagan's Cedar
Grove neighborhood and Cedar -
vale.
Seven schools in the area, with
a total of more than 3,000 stu-
dents, would be affected by the
noise, Teske said. One of them,
Cedar Alternative School, targets
special -education pupils and stu-
dents for whom traditional high
schools have been ineffective.
None of the schools has air condi-
tioning. The school district's busi-
ness manager, Carter Christie,
said the district doesn't yet know
what impact the noise will have
on schools. although he said some
disruption is likely.
"You cannot teach with that
kind of noise going over," said
Teske, who teaches at Dakota
County Technical College and was
a substitute English teacher in
Dakota County for years.
Other residents worried that
selling their homes might become
difficult when buyers hear the
noise. Airports commission avia-
tion -noise manager Roy Fuhrmann
said there is no evidence that air-
port noise decreases property val-
ues and cited increasing values in
some Minneapolis communities
already affected by airport noise.
Only if residents panic and sell
before the runway is built would
values be likely to decline drasti-
cally, said Jeff Bergom, who lives
in the neighborhood and represents
Burnsville on the Metropolitan
Aircraft Sound Abatement Council.
Because Burnsville residents fall
just outside a state -established
noise contour line, none of them
will be eligible for financial assis-
tance in insulating their homes
from the added noise.
In Eagan. over which more than
64 percent of airplanes will fly as
they arrive at the airport. only
homes in the Wuthering Heights
neighborhood will be eligible for
such aid.
2005 runway use
issicoors <=saltsig
PIONEER PRESS
The above maps show the current
and future runway traffic at the
airport. The white arrows refer tc
planes taking off from a particular
runway. Incoming traffic is
marked with black arrows. The
runway next to Highway 77 In the
bottom map will fly more traffic
over Eagan and north Burnsville.
Betty Bassett, who lives or
Wuthering Heights Road in Eagan
said the friendly neighborhood and
proximity to Fort Snelling State
Park and the Minnesota Valley
Wildlife Refuge outweigh the conk
of potential airplane noise. She
said the area currently has very
little noise.
"We have so many positive
things that we kind of grit our
teeth and say, 'Well, we can take
" Bassett said.
Tammy J. Oseid. who covers Annie Valley
and Burnsville. can be reached at
toseldopionoarprsss.com or (651) 22&
2171. Amy Sherman. who covers Eagan.
contributed to this article.
dal SAINT PAUL PIONEER PRESS
EAGAN
EAGAN
Teen at large
Police seek a boy suspected of
signing for a package of
marijuana who lost them on a
high-speed chase. PAGE 2B
SOUTH SUBURBAN
CAPITOL REPORT
Coleman excited about Bush
St. Paul Mayor Norm Coleman says
Minnesota delegates to the GOP
national convention strongly favor
George W. Bush's candidacy. PAGE 41
INSIDE
Briefings 28
Obituaries 38
Capitol report . 3B
Weather . 4B
TUESDAY, JULY 25, 2000
City prevails in roadwork dispute
Council member asl
for work plans to appeal
AMY SHERMAN STAFF WRITER
Blomquist, who lost her assessment
appeal in Dakota County District
Court last week, said she'll now take
the city to the Minnesota Court of
Appea Is.
Blomquist was one of about 50
landowners in the Oak Chase neighbor -
The city of Eagan had the right to hood who were assessed for a road
assess Council Member Bea Blomquist reconstruction project completed in
for roadwork, a court has ruled. 1998. Blomquist had to pay the city
about $1,900. elusion July 11.
During a one -day trial in June, The council member also has said
Blomquist argued that her home did the city was lax in maintaining the
not increase in value because of the road. But the road. which was built in
project. Judge Harvey Holtan dis- the 1970s, was old enough to warrant
agreed, concurring with one of the reconstruction, said Tom Colbert, the
city's appraisers that Blomquist's city's public works director. Eagan
property increased in value by $3,300 had provided standard maintenance
as a result of the road improvement,
according to the judge's written con-
BLOMQUIST CONTINUED ON 2B lo
DETAILS
The city will
spend about
S17,000 in legal,
appraiser and
other fees for
the case, but
expects the court
to order Council
Member Bea
Blomquist to
reimburse the
city about
$5,000.
2B
S TUESDAY, JULY 25, 2000
LOCAL NEWS
SOUTH SUBURBAN
EAGAN
Boy charged after drug -related police chase
REGIONAL NEW
HUDSON, WIS.
3 Ojbwe bands leave cad
• Dog at airport finds Paul International Airport alerted drove over the lawns of two GARY DAWSON STAFF WRITER Red Cliff and Sokaogan (Mole
his handler to the 30-pound box homes, drove through a stop sign, Lake) bands, gaiashkibos said, "We
packagemarijuana en route to an Eagan address. almost side -swiped another car, T ttuCISON, WIS. respectfully decline further com-
HANNAH ALLAM STAFF WRITER Airport police obtained a search then lost the police after a high- ■ he three Wisconsin Ojibwe ment or participation in this
warrant, opened the package and speed chase around the Mall of bands seeking to convert a Hudson unprecedented and shameful exer-
found the marijuana. America. dog track into a lucrative casino cise of political opportunism."
Police are searching for a 17- walked out of a Minnesota-Wiscon- The track is outside the bound -
year -old Eagan boy who fled The drug task force was called Investigators returned to the sin BoundaryArea Commission Riverway,
to deliver the package under boy's home and interviewed his arias of the St. Croix hinfr
from officers last week after P g hearing Monday night, calling it a gaiashkibos said. And the infras-
signing for a Federal Express surveillance to the 4600 block, of father, who allowed police to "charade" designed to orchestrate tructure that will support the casi-
package that contained 25 pounds Penkwe Way in Eagan, according search the home. Officers found opposition. no, including roads, sewer and
of marijuana from California, to the complaint. Blumberg illegal pills in the boy's bedroom, More than 100people turned out lighting, p
signed for the package on Thurs- the complaint says. Blumberg's decade
e has was designedo in place for accom-
criminal
a
according to a Dakota County 6n P g for the hearing, most of them decade and to da thengot into a fight with his license was under suspension at nts of the casino I
complaint. Y. g opponents proposal. modate the kind of facility being
Frank B. Blumberg has been father, who demanded to know the time he fled police. Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe Band proposed, he asserted.
charged with two counts of a con- what was inside the package, the Anyone with information about Chairman gaiashkibos told the Malick and commission chair -
trolled substance crime, fleeing a complaint says. Agents outside Blumberg may call the Dakota commission, "This is a charade, man Robert Mullally defended the
police officer and other related the house watched as Blumberg County Sheriff's Office at (651) one that would not and has not commission's environmental fact -
charges after he signed for a put the box in the trunk of his 438-4720. been applied to other business finding hearing, noting that the
package that had been intercept- father's red Honda, which he then developments outside the commis- commission coordinates natural
ed by the Dakota County Drug drove to pick up another passen- Hannah Auam can be reached at hal- sion's boundaries." Speaking for his resource policy for border areas of
Task Force. A dog trained to ger, police said. As officers began lameptoneerpress.com or (651) 228- band and for the leaders of the the two states.
_ n�.
BLOMQUIST
• CONTINUED FROM ie
for Oak Chase Road. which even-
tually required work because it
was full of potholes, structurally
unsound and expensive to main-
tain, he said.
The City Council discussed
changing the assessment policy
last year — an idea Blomquist
strongly backed — but the majori-
ty decided against it.. Under the
city's policy, homeowners are
assessed for 75 percent of the cost
to reconstruct a road while the
city picks up, the remainder. The
city spent $20,000 to hire an inde-
pendent attorney and appraiser to
evaluate its policy. The attorney.
Bruce Malkerson, concluded earli-
er this year that the policy was
well thought out and in compli-
ance with the law.
The city will spend about
$17,000 in legal, appraiser and
other fees for the case, but
expects the court to order
Blomquist to reimburse the city
about $5,000.
The city felt it was worth
spending the money to defend its
assessment policy because if the
city reduced or dropped every
assessment that is taken to court,
it would give other citizens the
green Light to challenge assess-
ments. costing the city more
money in the future, Colbert said.
Since 1988, about 1 percent of
landowners who had road assess-
ments challenged them in court.
Amy Sherman. who covers Eagan. Inver
Grove Heights and Rosemount. can be
reached et ...wino*.
peonemprasa.com or (651) 228.2174.
14A Apple Valley/Rosemount, Eagan SureCurrent/Thursday, Sept. 11, 2003
rrrlrw.nlIrtl UMCo n
Vraa
From I'age 1A
"I made a promise to myself when my
dad passed away a few years ago," Vraa
said. "My dad loved his job too, but he
wasn't as fortunate as I was to retire at
my age. He worked about two years past
when he could have retired and he spent
the last 2 1/2 years in a nursing home. I
sometimes feel that two years of his life
he stole from himself and gave to work."
Vraa got his start in the parks and
recreation field working for the Fargo,
N.D., park district after graduating from
North Dakota State University with a de-
gree in education and a double major in
political science and economics.
It was in Fargo, his hometown after
being born in a hospital across the bor-
der in Moorhead, Minn., that he "fell
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into" his career path.
"It was not my chosen profession," he
said. "1 actually went to school to be a
school teacher. While I was going to
school I was involved in the golf team
and I started working for the park dis-
trict at the golf course and pretty soon 1
found myself getting more and more in-
volved in parks and recreation."
Vraa, 57, came to Eagan in 1979 after
nine years working in the St. Louis Park
Parks and Recreation Department. He
started out in St. Louis Park running the
city's community center and ended up as
director of the department for the last
six years.
"I had that little bit of wanderlust in
my career and I decided I wanted to so
something else," he said. "St. Louis Park
was a mature community and I was look-
ing to be a little more active than just
maintaining. I wanted to do something.
So Eagan attracted me because it was
pretty obvious that here was a city of
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about 20.000 people on the verge of
growth and it was pretty obvious that
they needed somebody."
The city he came to was a far cry from
what it is like today. Still in the initial
stages of development. Eagan had 13
parks, with only seven of them actually
developed, representing less than 300
acres. Today, Eagan has 58 parks repre-
senting 1,400 acres.
Changes began after a successful
parks bond referendum in 1984. The two-
part referendum question was approved
overwhelmingly by Eagan residents, giv-
ing more funding to the department.
"In the beginning we didn't really
have any money to do anything." Vraa
said. "Suddenly after the referendum
passed, it wasn't an organize, plan, get
prepared stage, it was implementing
plans and programs that took up all of
my time."
Vraa oversaw the completion of sev-
eral different large facilities during his
time with the city. Besides the newly
completed Eagan Community Center,
the Cascade Bay water park and the
Eagan Civic Arena were also built under
Vraa's watch.
Vraa points to the success of Cascade
Bay as one of the highlights of his career.
He said the early forestry efforts he
was involved in after initially coming to
the city represents another highlight.
"I find it very rewarding to go back
now to see some of those parks we built
in `84, '85 and '86, and seeing little twigs
that we planted or little 9-gallon potted
evergreens now standing 27 feet tall," he
said.
Whoever replaces him will face chal-
lenges different from the ones Vraa faced
when he came to Eagan 24 years ago.
"We have some parks out there that
still need additional development that
were never really completed," Vraa said.
'At the same time, we also have some of
our parks that are now 20 years old and
you're going to start to see what they
need."
Another issue that his successor will
likely have to deal with is the potential
development of the Eagan Core Green -
way, an undeveloped stretch of land run-
ning from around Patrick Eagan Park to
Lebanon Hills Regional Park.
The city is working with several
groups to study ways to potentially en-
sure the property, both privately and
publicly owned along that stretch, re-
mains open space.
"The Eagan Core Greenway is still an
issue," he said. "I don't know that it's
clearly understood by everybody what
all the issues in there are yet, but that is
going to shake out in the next 12 to 18
months in terms of shaping and refining
that idea. That's going to be a big chal-
lenge."
One of the last projects he worked on
in St. Louis Park was the creation of the
Westwood Hills Environmental Educa-
tion Center. When he came to Eagan, he
saw a similar opportunity at an undevel-
oped piece of land in the city.
"When 1 came to Eagan I looked
around and found this place called
Patrick Eagan Park and 1 fell in love with
it," he said. "I though this could be a na-
ture center like nobody would believe.
But I also knew in my mind that this was-
n't my highest priority at the time."
However, as he went about providing
community parks, athletic fields and
playgrounds for the developing commu-
nity, he always kept Patrick Eagan Park's
potential for a nature center in the back
of his mind.
Although the city's Capital Improve-
ment Plan calls for a master plan process
for the park, he said he regrets he won't
have the opportunity to influence the
process to build a nature center in the
park
A glance around Vraa's office gives a
clue to what he will be spending part of
his newfound free time doing. Behind his
desk is a wooden sign that reads "Ken
Vraa: Professional," a reminder of his
time as a golf professional in Fargo. On
the other side of the office is a framed
print of a pheasant, representing his
love of hunting with his two dogs.
He and his wife, Jan, will also be
spending more time at a cabin they are
building up north that will eventually be
their year-round home as well as spend-
ing time with their two sons, Derek and
Matthew, who are both physical thera-
pists in Wisconsin.
But Vraa realizes that in the begin-
ning it will be hard to find himself not
heading to his office every morning.
"I can't remember too many days, if
any, that I haven't always gotten up the
next morning and couldn't wait to get to
work," he said.
"Even the bad days I've always want-
ed to come to work. I really feel lucky
about that."
l
Apple Valley/Rosemount, Eagan Sun•Curnnt/Thursday, Sept. 11, 2003
763.546.3323
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Andy Blenk
Vraa has announced
tirement plans.
his re-
Vraa closing out 24
Eagan Park and Recreation director
announces plans to retire in the spring
BY JosmJA Ntctaots
Sun Newspapers
After nearly a quarter decade of helping shape
Eagan and the relationships and memories that
come along with that job, it's easy to Lnderstand why
Ken Vraa gets teary eyed thinking about leaving it all
behind.
Sitting in his office last week. Vraa described the
experience of bringing a group of children from the
city's preschool program to try out the new indoor
playground at the Eagan Community Center seven
f
-111111111.
-
years of memories
months ago and witnessing how much fun they had.
"I've always gotten so much out of this job," Vraa
said. wiping away a tear. "That was my grand open-
ing. I'm going to miss it."
After joining the city 24 years ago as the director
of its Parks and Recreation Department, Vraa an-
nounced last month that he plans to retire next
spring.
Although he is eligible for retirement before then,
Vraa said he wanted to stay on to see the Eagan Com-
munity Center, a project that has been part of his life
for the past three years, through to completion.
However, retirement has been on his mind since
last winter.
VRAA: To Page 14A
11- Xc.3
Pilot Knob, ^ rriq+
Mendota get
straight A's
District 197 elementary
schools among 53 schools in
state to receive dual five-star
rating
BY Josuun NIcuOLs
Sun Nirmvspers
It was only a little more than a
month ago that Eagan's Pilot
Knob Elementary School found it-
self on the preliminary list of
schools not making "adequate
yearly progress" required by na-
tional legislation.
How times have changed.
In the space of a month. the
school was not only removed from
that list due to corrected data, but
it also found itself, along with fel-
low District 197 school Mendota
Elementary School, receiving a
rare honor for its student achieve.
ment.
Both Mendota and Pilot Knob
were among 53 schools across the
state that earned the top five-star
rating in both math and reading
achievement.
"It's exciting, there's no doubt
about that," Pilot Knob Principal
Byron Schwab said. "We know we
are doing good work in our school
and we have committed teachers
and staff who do the best they can
for our students."
Across the border into Mendo-
ta Heights, Mendota Principal
Steve Goldade echoed Schwab's
comments.
"It is an indication of the hard
work put forward by our teachers
and the support we receive from
not only our families, but also
from the community," Goldade
said.
"It was a very nice surprise."
Each elementary school in the
state received a star rating be-
tween one and five based on
achievement in math and science.
REPORT: To Page 20A
Report
From Page IA
Middle schools and high schools will
not receive star ratings until next year
when an academic indicator is available
for these schools.
According to the Minnesota Depart-
ment of Education, the majority of ele-
mentary schools in the state fell into the
three star rating in both categories.
More than 65 percent received a three
star rating in reading with more than 70
percent earning that same rating in
math.
The national No Child Left Behind
law is the first factor used in determin-
ing the stars. Schools that have not made
"adequate yearly progress" (AYP) for one
year receive two stars and schools that
haven't earned that designation for two
consecutive years receive one star.
If a school does not make AYP, it can-
not receive higher than a two -star rating.
The remaining stars awarded to schools
are based on several categories such as
student test scores and student achieve-
ment compared to similar size schools.
Three -star schools are those that
make AYP. Four -star schools make AYP
and also meet the criteria in one of the
additional categories. Five-star schools
make AYP and also meet the criteria in at
least two of the categories.
Goldade said the report cards offer a
convenient way for parents to get infor-
mation easily on how their children's
schools are doing.
"It's a nice way for the public to con-
tinue to have faith in public education
and specifically to have faith in the pub-
lic education we provide at Mendota," he
said.
However, he also cautioned that the
star ratings don't reveal the entire story.
**There are schools in the district that
received less than five stars and there are
great things going on in those schools
too," he said. "I would caution people not
to get too discouraged. If you look
around, you can still find a lot of good
things going on in the buildings in this
district."
Of the other three elementary schools
in the district. Garlough and Moreland
received three stars in both math and
reading and Somerset received three
stars in math and four stars in reading.
Both Goldade and Schwab said the re-
action from parents and community
members has surpassed their expecta-
tions.
"It really has been more than I antici-
pated." Goldade said. "Over the first two
days of school I've probably had two
dozen parents talk to me about it. That's
the most reaction I've ever seen_ When
we publish our MCA (Minnesota Com-
prehensive Achievement) scores, I usu-
ally have one or two comments at most."
Schwab said many parents are excited
to see the school score so highly on the re-
port card.
"People are really excited and happy
to see the school get this kind of recog-
nition," Schwab said. "Everybody works
so hard and is so proud of what we do
here, so it feels great to get that kind of
recognition."
The report cards also include a "Tax -
payer's Report" on school finance, acad-
emic opportunities, staff and student de-
mographics, and information on parent
satisfaction.
To view the report cards, visit
wwweducation.state.mn_us and click on
the "Schools & Districts" tab at the top of
the page. Information can be accessed by
school name. district or by city
SENIORS
T'ai Chi Chih class
offered for seniors
The Apple Valley Senior Center is of-
fering beginner and intermediate T'ai
Chi Chih for seniors. The six -week class-
es begins Sept. 25 and meets 9:30-10:30
a.m. Thursdays for beginners and 10:45-
11:45 a.m. for intermediates. Informa-
tion/registration: 952-953.2345.
Jr .RI q- 1 .Jvri rn...Lr
I.JULC Lies
CALL 952-392-6875 FOR ADVE
r111._ Family of Chri�
Lutheran Church
ELG
Sunday Worship
8:30 am & 10:45 am
Sunday School 9:40 am
Nursery Provided at
8:30& 10:45am
East of 1-35 on 185th St., tatctdk
Paolo Lon LIMO
952-133-5757
• • • fanah tchns coon
Spirit of Joy 1
Christian Church
Sunday School 9:30 am
Sunday Worship 10:30 am
A Church of Open Ands
and Open Hearts
www.rpiritofloyccdoc.org
located at 7570 210th Street W.
at the comet of Cedar Ave. &
Hwy..50 m Lakeville
' For more information
•
rall 952.997.2966 ,/
Messiah
Lutheran
Church
16725 Highview Ave.. Lakeville
952-431-5959
Pastor Paul Biebighauser
Worship limes
630 pm Saturday
8:00 & 10:30 am Sunday
9:15 am Education
www,messiahonline.org
`WC re buddmq ro make room for wu'
Mount olive
Assembly of God
14201 Cedar Ave. S.
Apple Valle►
Paslor Mark J. Ohmic
Sunday Worship
9:00 & I0:45 a►o
Sunday School 9:00 a.m.
Sunda}' Praise 6:30 p.m.
Wed. Family Night 7:00 p.m.
GOD CARES- IVE CARE
952-132-4332
Christ Church
A (lurch Where You Can Find...
Worship That's Alive
Faith That's Real - Love That's Shared
411 WORSHIP SERVICES:
Sundays 8:30 & 10:30 AM
12925jututny Cake Rsdgc Road
Intersection a Cry Rd. 1R & Johnny Cake Rale.•
ra 's) frwn Fdcnr Rd4r Mfddk Sckd)
952-432-8855
HOLY EMMANUEL
LUTHERAN CHURCH
201 East 104th St., 131thimc:na:
ihft.een Pordard & Nacict ,1162-11e4.145
Sunday Worship
Indiana 8:00 am
Contemporary 10:30 am
I Seem Arailsli)
Educitoe Hour 9 15 an
1111N 1N Atmmanuel.Mil .off
Open Arms t hrnoan Early
\\Lhildboad Center. 952-888 a116
(hiki asr for rya 6 wks-5 m
EVANGELICA
16165 KENWOOD TRA1
In tare rvw1.
Come, Enc ►
Sunday Worship &25 am •
New Saturday Con
Beginning Sept
Welrrxne Sundt
Phone. 952-435-5548
St. Thom
Join us fo
Sunday Masses: Sa
Sund
4455 So. Roles
ST. PAUL PIONEER PRESS SUNDAY, JULY 8, 2007 WWW.TWINCITIES.COM
NORTH SUBURBS
ARDEN HILLS BLAINE CENTERVILLE CIRCLE PINES LINO LAKES LITTLE CANADA MOUNDS VIEW NEW BRIGHTON ROSEVILLE SHOREVIEW VADNAIS HEIGHTS WHITE BEAR LAKE
DULUTH, MINN. TIGER HANDLER HAS TROUBLED RECORD, 3B CARVER COUNTY FAMILY CAT'S HEAD FOUND IN YARD, 38
COURTESY OF DAKOTA COUNTY DRUG TASK FORCE
A marijuana "grow house" at 8471 Calvin
Court, Inver Grove Heights, contained about 350
plants when it was shut down in 2005
DRUGS IN THE TWIN CITIES
Big houses hide big pot operations
Authorities explore whether suburban 'grow houses' are part of crime ring
BY FREDERICK MEL()
Pioneer Press
When Dung Anh Nguyen pur-
chased the five -bedroom, three -
bathroom house at 8780 Hunters
Way in Apple Valley last year, he
bought his neighbors fruit baskets.
Drug -enforcement agents raided the
two-story house three weeks ago
and found another kind of cornu-
copia: 1,200 plants of high-grade
marijuana — enough to net $1 mil-
lion on the street.
Similar dramas have played out in
residential nooks and cul-de-sacs in
Twin Cities suburbs. Marijuana
growers are cultivating potent leaves
from British Columbia — and using
large "grow houses" in Dakota and
Washington counties as one way to
do it.
Kent Bailey, a Minneapolis -based
agent with the U.S. Drug Enforce-
ment Administration, said the
agency seized 3,679 pounds of mari-
juana in Minnesota in the first six
months of 2007 — about as much as
BIG POT OPERATIONS, 7B
ab M SUNDAY, JULY 8. 2007
ST. PAUL PIONEER PRESS WWW TWINCITIES.COM
CONTINUED FROM THE LOCAL COVER
PHOTOS BY JEAN PIERI, PIONEER PRESS
James Claugherty, 4, of St. Paul, watches the video "Cats and Dogs" on Friday at an extended day program he attends at St. Pascal
Baylon Catholic School in St Paul. His mother, Sue, wants James to go to the same school as his brother, even though St. Pascal lacks
qualified staff to work with James, who is autistic. "Catholic schools just can't accept the perfect kids," Sue Claugherty said. "All kids
deserve the best."
Special needs
(continued from Page 18)
needs to a private or public
school? And if I choose a private
school, will they accept him?
Parents with children who
have learning disabilities or spe-
cial -education needs find it
exceedingly difficult to enroll
their children in private schools,
which can pick and choose their
students. And unlike public
schools, private schools have no
legal obligation to serve all stu-
dents.
Some parents, however, say
private schools provide a better
education with smaller class
sizes and academic rigor, while
others seek a religious educa-
tion — something public schools
cannot offer.
Marty Weisbeck, principal of
St. Pascal, said his school would
love to serve every child but
resources are limited.
Even so, Claugherty said
"How is that Catholic?"
"Catholic schools just can't
accept the perfect kids,"
Claugherty said. "AII kids
deserve the best."
Parents can tap special -edu-
cation programs at a public
school at no charge if an agree-
ment exists between the public
and private school, but Claugh-
erty hopes to see James at
St. Pascal full time.
"James doesn't have autism
for a couple hours," Claugherty
sold. "It's every hour, all day."
After much negotiation.
Weisbeck agreed to let James
enroll in kindergarten. Claugh-
erty said, but she fears James
will fall behind if he doesn't
receive enough help.
Claugherty has Weisbeek's
support for an August fundraiser
to hire a paraprofessional at the
school. They hope to raise at
least S12,000 to $15,000 to pay for
a part-time person who can work
one-on-one with students who
need it.
Colleen Urness, of Oakdale,
is a teacher at the school who
has one child at St. Pascal and
another at a public school
because of a learning disability.
"It broke our heart," Urness
said about sending her children
James leaves St. Pascal Baylon Catholic School in St. Paul with his mother, Sue, and his 12-year-old
brother, Michael, on Friday. The school has agreed to let James — who is autistic — enroll in
kindergarten, but Sue Claugherty fears James will fall behind if he doesn't receive enough help.
"James doesn't have autism for a couple hours," she said. "It's every hour, all day."
to separate schools. "[ think
something needs to be done so
we can serve all children, no
matter what kind of school they
attend."
At Cretin-Derham Hall high
school in St. Paul, two special -
education teachers work with
students diagnosed with atten-
tion -deficit disorder, autism,
dyslexia and other learning dis-
abilities.
Dick Engler, Cretin-Derham
Hall principal, said the school
doesn't turn away students with
physical disabilities, but if a stu-
dent's learning disability is too
severe, admission is typically
denied.
Although Cretin-Derham is a
large private school with more
resources than a smaller school
like St. Pascal, providing the
gamut of special -education
services is a costly proposition,
Engler said.
"The expense of it would
make it unrealistic," Engler said.
"But our focus is to figure out
how to help students succeed."
Virginia Richardson. a man-
ager of parent training at the
Minneapolis -based PACER Cen-
ter, said she receives weekly
calls from parents with children
struggling in private schools
because of their disabilities and
from those hoping to find a pri-
vate school option.
It's not uncommon to hear
about private schools rejecting
children who require special -edu-
cation programs and services,
Rkhanlson said. She added that
schools have asked parents to
take their child elsewhere when
the student struggles.
Although limited because of
funding. some private schools
make an effort to accommodate
students with disabilities —
especially if the student's condi-
tion is not serious, said Lori
Boynton, a manager at the
Learning Disabilities Associa-
tion of Minnesota.
Other schools, like St.
Thomas Academy in Mendota
Heights, make it clear that its
academic standards are high
and students are admitted
based on their ability to keep up
with the college -prep focus, said
John Kenney, the all -boys
school's admissions director.
"We serve a variety of stu-
dents, but we're not a school for
everyone," Kenney said, "We
have a niche in the marketplace."
The school doesn't provide
special -education services, but
there is a learning specialist to
help students who may struggle
with tasks such as organization,
reading and test -taking.
Michelle LeMay, of St. Paul,
and her husband hope to send
their 5-year-old son, Maxwell
[.eMay, to a private school one
day.
Maxwell, diagnosed with a
developmental cognitive disor-
der at age 2, will attend a St.
Paul public school this fall. He
has been slow in his speech
development and other areas,
but his school has programs to
help him, LeMay said.
"We'll send our son to the
place that helps him the most,"
LeMay said.
Claugherty said she hopes
parents like LeMay and herself
see more private schools as an
option for their children, despite
their disabilities, in the future.
"1t shouldn't matter where
they go to school," Claugherty
said. "All kids can learn."
Ruben Rosario
(continued from Page JR)
exam is given to determine what
was learned.
More than 50,000 people
have gone through the program.
created in 1993. The program
Accepts referrals from other
counties, though Ramsey Coun-
ty, Ilse says, no longer partici-
pates. The offender pays the
$115 fee, which keeps the pro-
gram self-supporting.
The proof of the pudding for
any such program is whether
participants reoffend and at
what rate.
No outside agency has con-
ducted such an evaluation.
County officials have conducted
occasional "snapshots" of the
program by checking arrest
records, if any, three years after
someone has gone through the
program. The results sound
impressive: an average of 86
percent did not reoffend.
Meslow still wanted more
than good numbers. Ilse and the
program leader were the only
ones who knew Meslow's true
identity among 20 other male
participants. One of them, ironi-
cally, was the first person Mes-
low sentenced to the program
when he became judge six
months ago. But the man did
not recognize him.
"l arrived at 7:40 Friday
morning, and sat in the parking
lot for fifteen minutes, wonder-
ing if 1 was making a big mis-
take," Meslow writes in an e-
mail detailing his experiences.
"My hands were cold and clam-
my as [ entered the building and
waited for instructions.
"The bed was less than
6' long and no more than
3' wide," Meslow writes. "The
metal enclosures at each end
meant I was going to have a
tough time making my 6 3" frame
fit easily on the 1" thick mattress.
There were no doors on the cells,
hut otherwise it looked juvst like
the movie prisons."
Three counselors, all recov-
ering alcoholics, spoke to the
group about the effects of alco-
hol and strategies for avoiding
trouble. Participants — most of
them twentysomething single
"Tien, with a sprinkling of
teenagers and men in their 40s
and 50s — discussed their
infractions in a group setting.
Meslow came up with a story
of drinking too much at a wed-
ding and getting pulled over on
the way home.
They were later asked to
write and publicly share a "letter
of apology" to anyone harmed by
their offense. Most did not have a
"primary" victim because nearly
all were not involved in a colli-
sion with a pedestrian or other
vehicle. Most wrote about loved
ones. Meslow decided to write a
"what if" letter to his son, Peter,
who died of cancer two years ago
at age 19.
"1 got to see more of the
human side of people," says
Meslow, who represented the
White Bear Lake area as a
Republican in the Minnesota
House from 2003 to 2006. "When
they come in front of me, 1 may
get maybe three minutes with
them. But to spend 36 hours
with them, you hear the life sto-
ries of people struggling with
other things and often there is a
deeper issue going on in their
lives than the infraction."
Al the end of the session, par-
ticipants were asked what they
would say to the judge who sen-
tenced them to the program if
the judge were in the room. Most
expressed thanks. The man Mes-
low sentenced admitted he did
not want to be there at first, hut
that the experience was valu-
able. At that point, Meslow stood
up and revealed his identity.
'There were gasps in the
room," he recalls. "1 told them
that they as well as the experi-
ence would make me a better
judge."
Meslow had two other major
observations about his brief
time behind bars. One was free-
dom, or the lack of it.
"Fifteen minutes to watch the
Twins on TV, 10 minutes' break
outside in a fenced -in area."
Meslow says. "( was surprised at
just how much it meant to look
up and see the blue sky"
The other was the mess hall
cuisine. In one word: Rata-pukey.
'"Che food was bad beyond
descriptioli" Meslow says, it was
really lousy Think of the worst
cafeteria food in junior high — I
wish it were that good."
.kdams. Andrew
Age 81,ill YVN7lfil�se
o Mission, Tensor fresery of
South St. Paul, lsjhl died_ July
1, 2007. Pomaded in death
gravel= and
grandpa, Kaheri�na�and- Prier Barrdi;
user. Abram: and parents,
Dan midEli Adans. He is sur-
vived by his loving wife of 59 yeas, Do-
lores (our , Patricia
Sargent Kathkwn (Dougg Rhebecoa
(T and Teresa (Cliff) Boyum
ell the win Caters, and one son. Mark
Ursa)3 cif Deeds TX Also��To 10 surviving r
1
eider lgreat-
,
key (Basil) Soky of
aa&wy, and blethers Don of Michi•
gun arid Roger oArizona, and many
other relatives and friends. Andy rw
ban and raised in So. St. Pant. MfH and
employed for 35 yeas at St Pad Union
Sock Yards. He and his wile, Debris,
enjoyed ir:r reline -nerd yeas near Pork
Rapids, MIN and Mission, TX. Andy wos
an avid Risrrnon. In low years he
laved to sit under o tree, and ton with his
family. imminent t will be held at For
Snell National Cemetery al o lade
dots. Bootee under ice direction of Ric
Broom Roily Funeral Horne.
Anderson, Robert A.
Age 79 Of SffMwodr
Retired 3M Engineer
Died July 4, 2007, Bob wasin
WWII veteran a
Commando. of the VFW Post
4323, o member of Cooke
and the American legion Po*
0491. Preceded in death by wore;
brasher Jim and ser&wsised by
le of 59 �Chrick children
(Butch), Joni (Torn), Altar, and
Lori (Chris): granclanildien Carte, Kim.
Chard, Kurt nary, Rm h and
'9ra.n; bnoertr
and marry oiler rek sines and
hotly . A speed t+ onion rri be
held
, 1se oncology stuff and
Lakeview Hospice.
Slat
Fomiy O,wrrd Singe 1�864
www.sima sitineralsome.mn
651-439.7770
Berg, Alan "AJ"
Al passed away permit*
on July 2nd of home
in Bloomrngkrn, MN He died
Ile some way he lived, with
/e love d family and Friends
surrounding him. His 61
yeas were filed with joy - whether le
was riding his Haley, fishing, hunting, a
erne voids lovely at his lake
hall. A! tied wary day to its Raker. Has
Outstay oils Dancer aver then pou seven
yews was e will
be dearly mid by his wife,Patricia;
daylsun, Brian Hendrickson and Kai
Berg: son -in -low, Chad Hendrickson; ond
grandson, Tanner AJ was born in 1946
m Wadrno, MN lo Leonia (Petersen) and
Horoid Berg. His four sUmge survive
tun, Kathryn (Curt) Herenslein, Wayne
Isril tang Doris, and
�anyya cos andodlnephews.
A.1
� upp in
Cambridge MN and mooed to tee Twin
Cities glee he returned from to Noy in
1967 AJ hod pony relatives ord friends
who supported him during his illness and
sly extends their o whom he was on inipiireion. The fami
the
kindnesses items
,nony kindnesseskindnessesoAlil aong mid his
bmily. M.nariti preferred to 1e family
for a freer designation. Funeral Service
Tues., lii,911Atsi at FtSnelling Me-
morialtab Hwy. 55 la the His-
toric Ftexits. Visitation Mon., Ju-
ly 9, 5-8PM ce
Washburn-McReavy
Wem.0 )tracers Chapel
2300 W. Old Shakopee Rd.
952-884-8145
Bielenberg, Bernice I.
(nee Raths)
Beloved Mofber, Grandmother,
Stier -
��85
Passed away on July 5, 2007
She is n by husband,
Orville. Survived by sons, Richard, Tho-
rns (Debbie Weiner); grandson, Mar;
brother, Eel (Larson») Rota; sword nie-
cass and neaiees, Bernice was o lifetime
resident of Woodterry. Very ocrim in to
coirsunity with various orgaumhonsthe Woocbury Menthes Society,
and lilesirro member d salon Lutheran
Omsrdt. Fund service 11 AM
7/9/07 at LUTHERAN CMURC:F4,
7825 Bailey Rd. (due to construction,
Om, own. on Bailey Rd from de
West) Visiblion San. 3-7PM or WULFF
WOODBURY FUNERAL HOME, 2195
Wooc cos (7r., Wood:wry and also I
hour prior toto service at the church. M•
ermineSalem �Luththerrathe rrrllrWoodbury Herit-
age
y.Me
i
5oary clos
es choice.
WWIIIJII W'OOOBURY
651-738-9615
Bryant, Gar} E.
Age 58 ran
On July 1,, 2007
Al Haannnnaan GMdim) Center,
leib s Vof Glam Lkn lion l d
02001 hi ride son NV aid
Vassal of Vietnam in U.S.
Navy,Formr member Lower St. Croix
VoNy Fin Dept and Hodsy Coach to
unary. Bum in Sl. Paul, pre+iouiy from
West Si. Paul, St. Mary's Point MN , Ar-
cola LA., Las Vegan NV. Preceded in
death by Abort and Esther,
brotw of loon and sister Sharon Sur-
vived by ions Gerald 'Elwood', T
and Rabidgrandson Hunter,daughterEily, ,brother of Vernon
and Gale Bryant and numerous nieces,
nephsrin ond cousins Memorial Service
from MAPLE OAKS FUNERAL HOME
2585 Stilwi .r Rd between Century and
McKnight friday July 13, 2007 at 11 30
AM. Visitation Friday from 9AM until the
time of Service. Inerrant Fort Snelling
Naomi
Maple Ooks/ Photon Pork Funeral Herne
651-736-2198
Carlson, Clarence W.
towing keit•r of D slim
.7f
Preceded in death by his matte luelo•
panels, arena* old wirknino; broth •
ars, Dean and Paul. Survived by dough -
ter, Gail (Rick) Weber, broths, Roy,
Floyd, David (Sue), rim (Sue); sisters,
Monon Frank, Audrey Hens, Susan
Schmid), Jeanette (John) Cransic, GirMar-
gore
e,s (Roger) d, BorbaroY
Wansnr. Visitation 4 BPM
with Funeral Swig at 6PM rACIIVAY at
Mueller Key Chapel 835 ns.n Pkwy
4 E 7th St . 10- Adman
30AM Tuesday at
Resurrection , Cemetery.
^
I �' I Mueller Memorial
r 1�ay C�
651-774-979'7
Cohen, layman harry
Manorial Gathering
in shore memories of Hy
At Int.n,uliar..al hnstity in ,
1694 Como Avower, St Pei,
3 6PM Saturday, July I Ash
Del Valle, Sue
Age91
Full notice
464.3556
wow.mattsonhmeroR me cam
I)iebel, Donna Mae
Leming wile, mother, grandmother
of Maplewood
Passed away peacefully on Ally 6, 2007
Preceded in death by son, ig. Sur
vied by loving husband Charles of 53
neon,
• n, Sarah Jo Tony ci &(Mary), some
rondrrnotl+r Angie; prouci
of, Chor(ie; sister of Jerry
(Honey); also nieces, nephews and
frieds. Memorial 5ervia Moriday 11 AM
of Sandberg Funeral Home, 23 E 7111
Ave , No. 51. Paul. Mesmnrd 5t. May's
Cemetery. Visitation one hour poor lo
Service. I lieu of Rowers, memorials pre.
fawned.
Sandberg Family F.H. 651.777-2600
Doherty, Thomas E.
Of Ftxelf take
Died Po:keit/fly at Home July S 2007
Preceded in death by sep-
Isson, Dornry DePbnti. He is
survived by his wife, Kay
(DePuas1 Doherty; brother,
Join (canine)!, sisters -in -low,
)Ace eel, Sisoos; b4othsr•in'law, Big,
merry alter relotis and friends An Air
Foot Veteran, Sr. MoAr Sat Doherty
failt40 yeas of adios duty in
j
e began serving in 1937 with
to 109ih Obeery Lion 5cp odroh at HMl•
man Field. He engird as a Neiman pilot
Airing WWWR. I the Osissresemainclia
/,vain he loomed to ly sane of ills fine
helicopters the Air Faros hod In 1943
he was chosen to work in secret Project
time described as o dangerous mission
in wind, term was o slim chance of re.
turn. M spurt prior, M/Sgt. Doherty was
One a e..., y fiee men on the project
who aided the British in Burma across the
Boy of B.ngd from Colcvlb Fo ceeng
Project Mire, Tam era, ore of on men
Wes bock to 1e States to lam the Second
Air COMMA) a- Al that time, he was
awarded the en Medal and Distinguish
▪ Goa. ih end d iheTech.,
., ay he
to I lYhh as on Air Teats., Aging
P-ft at Huer
oskmon Field later becoming
Bogle'
to C-130 Hercules. Afar retiringfrom
ire Air Force, Tan New kr. woe+ler the
DNR, and insinseied flying studentsHe
and his wife, Kay awned and operated
the Forest Lake Airport until 1998 Tom
wm o life member of VFW Pow 4210.
Mee of Chnirian Burial 10:30 AM, Tues-
day, July 10, 2007 d Ss Peu"i Coih do
Church, 1250 South Shore Drive, Forest
Lake Visitation b ritualsonic* 4acconif -13 PM with
VFW Post
4210 on Monday, July 9 2007 d Mott -
son Funeral
Hoe, 34f3 North shore
Drive, Forest take. Women' in Fort
Snelling Notional Cemetery- In lieu of
flowers, memonob may be mode to Si
POWs Catholic Church
MATTSON
Famtem miCrilmes
—
o I
464-3556
www. r>hdhon re corn
Donlon. Jr.. Richard
KORMR, Member Northern Lighters,
PG and Si. Croix RR,
Age 53 d Hugo Sunned by wife Nancy
(nee Cnanyr) and 3 daughters: Katie
Kelley & Knsy. Parents Rdoord Sr. and
2 Brothers: John (Cindy); Tom (An-
); 4 sisters: Jill (Robert( B Sue
Gory) Bastian; Colleen (Brie) 5di.hr B
(Store] Henkel. Visitation from 4-8
as MUELLER LAKE MORTUARY,
While 91a - Lake and 1 hr. before moss
as church. Moss d ()Maim Burial Tues-
day at 10:30AM at 5t. John the Baptist,
• interment church
Mueller Memorial
Lake Chapel
�JJ 651-429-4944
Dreyer, John (Ric)
Our beloved Ric, loving and denied hue
bond, falser old graradfater
suddenly and .lie was sr on 7• iri i'
Sao"scdole, AZ. He was [�wrn in cmcin
noi, OH. He is survived by his loving
wife of 43 years, Goil, son, Jeff
adonis at Cooper
Tm s; Nsister, Su
Scoulwik; brother, Don (Jon); and worry
family members. He retired from 3m; lor-
misi$y of North Oolu. Ric's devotion to
foray and his passion for flying were hit
life and he well be missed by d who
h ero him. Morn riohs may be mode to
to Flights For Life Inc . P O. Box 26485,
Phoenix, AZ 85068-6485 in Ric's ,Hans
o• riam"ad
ne tins rw-u Lahr are complimentary
end you on personae' your men
with a pinea.
Planer aria us et 6l1-222.1111(pen 3)
to segued current rate.
Examples ,f traahi"vu1 mesaagrs are
naitahle ep..n rryuest
['ME ( PRESS
ST. PAUL PIONEER PRESS WWW.TWINCIT1ES.COM
CONTINUED FROM THE LOCAL CODER
SUNDAY, JULY 8. 2007 M 7B
Big pot
operations
(continued from Page 1B)
the previous three years com-
bined.
Sgt. Tom Stafford of the
Washington County Drug Task
Force said it appears that grow
houses una.Ivered in Eagan.
Inver Grove Heights and Oak
dale all were related and possi-
bly tied to Nguyen's Apple Val-
ley site.
But, in the past two years,
police also have uncovered
major growing operations in
Forest Lake and St. Paul Park,
each stocked with hundreds of
indoor marijuana plants. Huge
road shipments have been con-
fiscated — including a truck in
May carrying 2,750 pounds of
pot from Mexico, hidden behind
palettes of Jawbreaker candies.
"We are seeing more of the
big -scale (operations)," Bailey
said. "I'm not talking about the
pot -head throw -back from the
hippie days, who wants to grow
50 plants in his basement. I'm
talking about the organized
grows, with 800 or 900 plants in
his basement"
The types of leaves — and
the setup in residential proper-
ties — makes these busts simi-
lar to large-scale operations in
British Columbia, Ontario and
Quebec, where countless grow-
ing operations linked to drug
cartels have dogged the Royal
Canadian Mounted Police for
years.
But it's unclear whether Min-
nesota's indoor growers are act-
ing more or less alone or are
tied to larger crime syndicates
interested in the Twin Cities
market.
SUBURBAN GROWTH
Expansive houses in the sub-
urbs have provided a kind of
smokescreen for large "grows,"
or crops, because of their rela-
tive anonymity, according to
police. Unlike outdoor grows in
large fields, the homes shield
the plants from the changing
seasons and detection by police
flyovers.
The houses are apt to draw
little attention, partly because
they are tucked into low -crime
neighborhoods. Hot lamps and
irrigation systems controlled by
timers create an enterprise that
is virtually automated.
Among the most sophisticat-
ed was a Forest Lake operation,
where rotating wheels, each
holding 110 plants or more,
moved around a grow light
"The fertilizer and the water
were piped into the wheel, so it
was really automated," Stafford
said. "It rotated like the sun
rotated."
The high-grade leaves grown
in these houses — nicknamed
B.C. Bud because of their ori-
gins in British Columbia — are
more powerful than typical
cannabis and sell for more on
the street
The leaves' THC content —
the main active ingredient in
pot — ranges from 15 percent to
30 percent, compared with 5
percent to 8 percent in typical
marijuana. Per pound, prices
range from about $1,500 in
Canada to 5;3,000 or more in
Minnesota, and $6,000 to $9,000
in New York, Stafford said.
"Indications are that some of
the Canadian (growers) are
moving their business south of
the border, closer to the mar-
ket," said Stafford, noting that
border security has intensified
since Sept. 11, 2001. "There's lots
of business reasons why you
would do it: less transport, less
risk, make more money."
MOVING ON UP
In Minnesota, indoor grows in
warehouses, sheds and pole
barns aren't new, but finding
them in pricey homes is, said
John Grant, agent in charge of
the Dakota County Drug Task
Force. In May, an operation was
uncovered on Rusten Road in
Eagan, in a home valued at
$400,000 to $500,000. A search
there yielded 1,132 plants.
In 2005, authorities shut
down a grow operation at 8471
Calvin Court in Inver Grove
Heights. Built in 1994, the
three -bedroom, four -bathroom
house has an official property
value of $379,000, according to
county records — but went on
the foreclosure market for
$195,000.
"It hasn't been resold
because there's so much work
that needs to be done to it, and
it's been sitting there vacant for
two years," said Karen Thomas,
a neighbor. '"I'he grass looks
horrible. ... But we can't do any-
thing about it."
Nguyen's Ewe -bedroom
PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAKOTA COUNTY DRUG -ASK FORCE
The marijuana plants in the foreground at the 2005 Inver Grove Heights bust are less mature than the four -feet tall plants in the distance. This is indicative of how the
plants are divided into the stages of growth before being harvested.
house in Apple Valley had a
market value of $430,000,
according to Dakota County
property listings.
Nguyen was friendly when
he moved into the house last
fall, according to Hunters Way
residents. But neighbors
thought it was unusual that he
kept all of his blinds closed and
seemed to stop by the property
only every few days, coming or
going in the middle of the day
with small U-Haul trucks.
In English that was difficult
to understand, he told them he
owned a nail salon in Minneton-
ka and was still selling his other
house in
Lakeville. His
wife and two
children would
be moving in
with him, too,
he said.
But months
passed, and no
one saw any
evidence of chil-
dren.
Still, in many ways, he was
an ideal addition to the area
"We'd rather have a quiet
neighbor than a noisy one," said
Laurie Holmberg, who recalled
Nguyen as cordial and person-
able.
It was the electric company
that first noticed something was
wrong. Workmen stopped by
the house June 13 after an out-
age at a nearby transformer
occurred, according to Joe
Miller, a spokesman with Dako-
ta Electric.
They turned off the home's
meter. but their equipment
showed that the house was still
drawing 35 amps of electric
charge — about triple what
would be expected from a nor-
mal residence. And with the
meter off. the charge should
have dropped to zero.
A closer look revealed that
someone had snaked a line
down a hole at the base of the
meter to an underground pipe
leading to the transformer. The
home was effectively leapfrog-
ging over the meter, leeching
power undetected.
"There's the danger of death,
somebody getting electrocuted
when they're doing that," Miller
saki. "A fire could happen."
The Dakota County Drug
Task Force searched the house
June 17 and discovered 1,200
plants in various stages of
growth in each room. Foil cov-
ered the wa1Ls to enhance the
reflection from heat lamps.
"it would take numerous
people to set up the grow,"
Grant said. "But to actually
maintain the grow, you could
do it with one person. The
lights are on timers. Even the
Irrigation systems are on
timers. You'd need one person
to visit every two or three
days."
Nguyen was arrested in the
area the next day and charged
by the Dakota County attor-
ney's office wijll three counts of
Dung Anh
Nguyen
Marijuana — large, indoor
growers move to the suburbs
In the past two years, authorities have
uncovered several large, indoor marijuana
operations in expansive homes in
Dakota and Washington counties.
Forest Lake:
9797 202nd St. N.
New
Forest Sunda
Lake Two.
■
Hugo
WASHINGTON COUNTY
4061 Granada Ave. N. I ....T•Sr- Paul m
- Lake
ST. PAUL 4. n'm,
/T
COUNTY
Bear lake Grant
Oakdale: T' North--
St. Paul Park:
8084 Grey Cloud
Island Drive
1335 Third St.
1190 Main St.
Eagan:
4906 Rusten Road
Apple Valley:
8760 Hunters
Way
Laumswile
Inver Grove Heights 1V
8471 Calvin Court35•
Lakeville
.Eagan
a controlled -substance crime,
including a first -degree charge
carrying up to 15 years in
prison,
A CANADIAN
CONNECTION?
ould the 34-year-old Bloom-
ington man have operated
alone? Not likely, say drug -
enforcement officials. The real
questions are whether Nguyen
was a key actor or a bit player in
his criminal enterprise, and the
size of his network.
Stafford, of the Washington
County Drug Task Force, said
he believes most indoor grow
operations in the metro area are
homespun, run by small but
organized groups of relatives or
acquaintances with local ties.
He saw no strong connection
between the cases he has inves-
tigated and larger, international
criminal organizations.
Others aren't so sure.
"It wouldn't surprise me if
they were related at some junc-
ture to the same DTO (drug -
trafficking organization)," Bai-
ley said. "We haven't gotten
there yet, but we will eventual-
ly."
Drug cartels based jointly in
Canada and Vietnam are
believed to back a large share of
the marijuana trade entering
the U.S. from north of the Cana-
dian border.
511
DAKOTA COUNTY
Woodbury
i 494 ! Newport
St. Paul Park
a cottage
'Gm Grove
Marine on
5L Croix
5ullvs
steep
M'rr
N
Hastings
r
PIONEER PRESS
Canadian officials believe
that virtually every major
indoor grow operation in British
Columbia, Ontario and Quebec
is linked at some level to organ-
ized crime. The Royal Canadian
Mounted Police appointed a
national coordinator to deal
specifically with marijuana
grows in 2002.
"The problem has been in
British Columbia in large num-
bers since the late 1990s. Proba-
bly 75 to 80 percent of the
seizures we make are in private
residences," said Paul Nadeau,
director of the RCMP's drug
program.
But stepped -up enforcement
hasn't stopped the pot from
growing or entering the U.S.
The number of marijuana
plants seized in Canada grew
from 296,000 in 1995 to 1.5.5 mil-
lion in 2004, but those numbers
tell only half the story. The
pounds of pot confiscated en
route between Canada and the
U.S. grew twice as much, twice
as quickly.
At the Canadian border, U.S.
Customs seizures between 2000
and 2004 increased by a factor of
10, from 4,927 pounds to 42,240
pounds.
Grow houses have also
become a common concern in
Georgia, Florida and California,
said Joanna Zoltay, special
agent with the DEAs Chicago
Field Division, which covers
The electrical timer system at the Calvin Court house is "typical
of all these grows we're seeing," said Sgt. John Grant of the
Dakota County Drug Task Force.
Minnesota and surrounding
states.
"There's always been indoor
grows," Zoltay said. "but it's a
trend that we're starting to see
more and more of."
Frederick Melo can be reached
at finelo@pioneerpress.com or
4.5f 22g2/7?
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Ad se_. Ns p f}-A -Fs c. L es
agendas
Eagan
City Council
The loll..• : 1 is a tentative ageetw6. Ire. the
regular mrY•:oig of he Fagan ('ill Council Io
he held al 6 10 p m Tuesday. March
council chambers. Fagan t'uy Hall
r; :tit p m Koll call and fledge 01
Allegiance
K AS p m Adopt agenda an. approval of
minutes
ti 411 p m • Department head M.snw•.s
a Fite Department
1 Contract 66 I, approve ptarta!auliw.rue
ath•rrlisemenl for h.ds , For Station No 3 i
h. Parks anti Recreation ls•jwrtnnea
I Commission recommendation. tom
mwuly tinter Study
a.45 p.m. Fitment agrniL.
a Personnel items
h Plumbers !Pretties
c Privet :.34. ))cosy) petll.unrardi r
feasibility report and twlstructinn plans
Klackhawk fonds sanitary lift slab/tot
d 1'ro$'vIs ltiti and 5I0. approve rnwduloom
restricting on street parking' I'i1o1 Knott ,And
('Ids marts
e Pn.jrt1 ..idol. receive Ita_sib.lity r
p.rt.ordcr public hearing Kolder Care
water 01411n,
l Agreement. sales and use lax refund
claim
g Final plat ..k.hnny Cake Kuige.IPith ad
dnttim
7 p m Public hearing.,
a Propel S27. Lexington Square .storm
MMer
h Projr.i ..;... I•.agaiwlak ('enter In
duslrull Park, ninth addition •strets and
3
n 11d hu.tnr wh
a Gambling I..rn l'. Farmington Knights
..1 (-r.luml.u.
b Anvr.dmml to 1Ily c11dr. terms of city
commissions and site of adk .srry parks and
recreation commission
c 1'nmmrr.'ial mall study
d Consideration of multiple consulting
engineering erinyg serva-rs
New hllemeas.
a Gambling berme, Kagan Leino grub
h Waiver of plat. %achntan Kruther.. kits .t
and i. blots I. Cinnamon Hodge sixth arkll
tom. duplex kw splltr
.pecwl permit, Lunrygren Brothers. 1n
allow an ..(f kite advertising sign Iucaksd at
Federal Drive and Yankee Doodle Bead
it (unditl.ial use permit review. Kevin
Mellon. Magnum Timing, 41161 Biscayne
Ave . n vlesi for extension 01 permit
r Variance for ('P J steel tviestnirti.n. In
rkpt•ndent Srhonl IhslritI 19s. sue plan
review ..1 athletic trckk, ad}tcrnt to high
school and shorthvtrw Park. rant rd Krad-
dirk Trail and Mouth 414 Nrrthverw Park
Head. review and cnm.rkr. pint tirld
ultimatum agreement and tennis court
agreen.tnl
1 t'tswblwaul use. permit. Toni Thumb
storey. pump .Ind nn•Ier xrvwr, to allow
motor fuel +ales .n a n•.ghtuortssort hI.siness
dlatrld located al tilaekhawk Plait Shopp-
ing ('enter. NE corner oil Hlackhawk Road
and ('goofy Kryad 30
g Preliminary plat, Prettyman Heights.
1)rn t'nllyman. c.wari.litgg .il 26 single-
Lamely Mils .n 10 47 H I acres in the Trrtfle
Acres and -lender Arras. 'tddivisun baled
west ut Aug.' Road and north of Tame flak
Knott
-yEr
h Comprehensive guide plan amendment
Kahn !Ridge Associates, Rahn Ridge serums
addiUa.. PD griming Iron limited husmess
In K 3 Morn house.) within Mtssw.n Hills
Planned Developrnrnt. preliminary plat. for
26 town house units on 3 43 acres !waled
neat of Hahn !toed and south of Hahn tray
Krvolutions. solid wastr rbalrmrnl
namphan•r with Dakota County 1)rsagnalun
Plan
Jinni rowers Agrrr•mrnl. Transit 'Semis
Assessment Study
Additional Items
a Pubis-.mprm'rmer.l contracts
I Project ill, TNIrw draft feasibility
report .Cliff Lake ('enter addition'
2 ('onlract N-3, approve plans+auIhnrrxe
advertisement far bids 'Wescott and North
view Pails Road surfacing .
J. l;rn(.racl IF14, approve plaits/ authorize
advertt•ernem for bids 4 Rrtan t laks of Apple
Valley trunk sanitary sewer I
4 Conrad E1, approve architectural
agreement Arthur Hickey It Associates
Fire. Slalom No. Sr
S Contract A->fl, approve change order
No 2 rim Stalisn No 4
6 Contract 111.17. approve change order
No 1 .Sperry Consolidation Facility
Wadies)
7 County (hnaracl 11 21 i 32 14. apphwe
plan.'authnriu advertisement for Nadi I Pro-
"' 41% Pilot Kraal Hnad. Project Slo
1'Idl Roast,
b ('nmadrr Cities Meek ac1.vItr.
Administrative agenda
Visitors to he heard
Adjournment
change for retail center
.Eagan City Council denies zoning
By Rob Hotakalnen and Paul Klaoda among council members that the city• The O'Neils sued the city in October
Staff Writers already has enough land earmarked 1985, requesting damages of 58.7
for commercial development. Coun- million and an order to change the
The Eagan City Council Tuesday re- cil members also expensed reluc- zoning on. about 100 acres of their
jetted a proposed S50 million retail tenet to change their.long-range com- agricultural land. The request for
shopping center that would have prehensive guide plan, which has damages was later changed to more
brought a Target store to The fastest- never targeted the property for devel- than 550,000.
growing city in the state. opment - ---' -"--- -.-- --Gerald Duffy. a St.' Paul attorney -
The council voted 4-1 to deny a The council's vote came hours after a representing the O'Neils, argued ear -
request to rezone a 9lacre site north Dakota County district judge ruled lier in coup that Blomquist and Egan
of Diffiey Rd. at Interstate Hwy. 35E that two city officials must submit to did not offer specific reasons for their
from agricultural to commercial questioning in a similar development votes and said that an in-depth in -
property. An Edina -based develop- case in which their votes stopped quiry into their reasons could dis-
ment company had proposed a another request to rezone agricultural close facts that make their decisions
735,000-square-foot retail complex, land for commercial use. arbitrary, capricious and unreason -
including Target, Northwest Racquet . able. .
Swim and Health Club, and possibly The ruling by Judge Gerald W. Ka-
•
a Cub Foods store and Knox Lumber lira means that Eagan Mayor Bea In coup documents, Duffy argued
outlet . Blomquist and Council Member that the depositions are necessary to
. Thomas Egan must give depositions ascertain if the relationships that
The proposal, which has sparked to explain why they voted against Blomquist and Egan have with Fed -
considerable controversy in Eagan, rezoning about 100 acres owned by eral .Land Co. "are such that they
was turned down amid concerns Robert J. and Grace O'Neil. lack the neutrality and objectivity
necessary of those given responsibil-
ity by state law and their • elected
office to vote on rezoning requests."
Egan called those claims "totally un-
meritorious" and said he is "anxious
and willing to state my position" on
the O'Neil case.
Those allegations were called
"heavyhanded" and "silly" by Chris-
topher J. Dietzen, an attorney for
Larkin, Hoffman, Daly & Lindgren
Ltd., a Twin Cities law firm repre-
• senting the city. -
,Dietzen had argued that forcing the
depositions would represent judicial
interference in a legislative process.
He had asked the court for a protec-
tive order that would bar the deposi-
tions, but said yesterday that no ap-
peal is likely. •
Federal Land, which opposed the
O'Neil rezoning, owns land across
the road from the •O'Neils and has
consistently been supported in its de-
velopment activities in the city by
Blomquist and Egan, Duffy said.
Federal often opposes others who
seek commercial and planned unit
developments in Eagan, Duffy said,
and the developers opposed by the
company frequently find opposition
on the council from Blomquist and
Egan as well.
Three of Eagan's five voting council
members approved the O'Neils' re-
zoning request, but a four -fifths ma-
jority is required for zoning changes
under Minnesota law. Blomquist and
Egan cast the dissenting votes.
The O'Neil project, proposed at 1-
35E and Yankee Doodle Rd., would
. compete with Town Centre, the cliy's
• largest retail complex, developedby
Federal Land.
•
Under Kelina's order, the deposi-
tions will take place at the Dakota
County Government Center in Has-
tings. No date was specified.
A spokesman Thorson-Cornwell-
Klohs Co., developers of the "35E -
DifJley Center" said last night that
they will wait a few days before de-
ciding what to do.
The developers said their project
would have created more than 1,000
jobs and boosted the city's tax base'
by 51.5 million per year.,
•
•
hbveiitLtc, it)/K
Public works director resigns
by Tim O'Donnell
Tom Colbert, Eagan's public
works director for the last 6L2
years, is resigning his post to
work in the private sector.
"Tom's resignation certainly
places quite a hole in our opera-
tion," City Administrator Tom
Hedges said Tuesday night. The
City Council "regretfully" ac-
cepted Colbert's resignation.
Colbert plans a family vaca-
tion before April 12, his last day
of work with the city. He begins
work April 15 with the con-
sulting engineering firm of Mc-
Combs Knutson Associates Inc.
in Plymouth as principal
engineer in charge of the firm's
municipal engineering divi-
sion.
Colbert, who became the
growing city's first public
works director, said his deci-
sion to leave was very difficult
and that he changed his mind
nearly a dozen times.
"I spent 61.,2 years helping
build an organization and we
have a team of individuals
capable of handling the pro -
Tom Colbert
blems of a growing
community," he said. "We
have the organization and pro-
cedures and policies, and the
hard part is to leave after
they've been established. It's
like spending six months night
and day building your dream
house, then moving two weeks
after it's finished."
Photo by Tim O'Donnell
Colbert interned with the firm
before getting his civil
engineering degree in 1973 from
the University of Minnesota and
recently has dealt with several
McCombs Knutson employees
working on developments in
Eagan. He declined the job of-
fer when the firm first con-
tacted him several weeks a o.
Smile! It's
winter again
The March 3 and 4 blizzard
postponed spring for a little
while, but that didn't seem to
matter to these kids. Getting
ready to zip down a snow pile
near their driveway Tuesday
were, from left, Corrin Miller,
5, Christopher Swanson, 5,
and Stephanie Swanson, 4.
More photos appear on p. 18A.
Photo by Tim O'Donnell
-Then they spelled out the -op-
portunities I could obtain, as
well as the challenges," he said.
"It's an opportunity and a
challenge in a little different
area, in private business, and
['11 be doing marketing as well
as design engineering. And it
was a chance to become part of
the operation itself ( in charge of
a division), rather than just
another staff member."
Colbert said he attained the
goals he set 617 years ago with
much effort and cooperation
from Hedges and the City Coun-
cil. Personnel and equipment
were added to his department to
meet the demands of a rapidly
growing city, he said. Par-
ticularly exciting were working
with the county and state on
road construction and following
the construction of the water
treatment plant. which is in
operation, Colbert said.
"I can't say enough for Tom
Hedges," he said. "He's one of .
the main reasons I came here
and one of the main reasons
people have stayed. He's really
held things together here."
Colbert will be working in
Plymouth, but will not move
from Eagan.
"This is our home; we love it
ere," he said. "We built our
home here six years ago this
summer and we love the area.
he neighbors, the schools,
verything."
City officials reach accord
on block grant funding
by Tim O'Donnell to help build a new B. Robert
Eagan, Burnsville and Apple Lewis House for battered
Valley officials agreed Tuesday women, The Burnsville Citizens
on how to disburse $324,480 in for Camelot Association
federal Community Develop- (BCCA) will receive the re-
ment Block Grants (CDBG) to maining $105,480 to establish a
their three -city district. revolving loan program to im-
The agreement was made prove mobile homes in Camelot
moments before the matter was Acres and Ram bush Estates.
to appear on the Dakota County Also in the agreement is that
Board's agenda, prompting the $149,000 of next year's CDBG
board to unanimously accept funds will be earmarked for
the recommended plan. Eagan and Apple Valley to
The Community Action Coun- begin a housing rehabilitation
cil (CAC) will receive $219,000 programsimiiartoBurnsville's
or consider using for other wor-
thwhile projects.
City representatives and CAC
and BCCA officials said that
after several compromise plans
went awry, they are satisfied
with the agreement reached
Tuesday.
"It's a fair compromise and
we realize that both projects
needed to be funded," said
Brenda Bader, BCCA's com-
munity organizer. The grant is
less than the $135,000 requested,
which means about 39 instead of
about 50 mobile home owners
will receive home -
improvement loans in the first
round of funding, she said.
The CAC requested $300,000 in
CDBG funds, but should be able
to get by with the $219,000 grant,
said Executive Director Frank
Brennan. The CAC recently
received a $50,000 McKnight
Foundation grant and has ap-
plied for grants from the
Kreske and the Bush founda-
tions, he said. "If they come
through, and with the proceeds
from the sale (of the present
shelter), I think we'll be in
business," he said.
Brennan said the CAC soon
will hire an architect and will
try to scale down construction
costs from the original $535,000
estimate.
f THIS WEEK
NEWSPAPERS
Volume 6, No. 50
Two Sections
Volume 6, No. 50
Two Sections
Feb.l1, 1985
Section A
Feb.11, 1985
Section A
EAGAN
Your
Community
Newspaper
Photo by Christy DeJoy
Timeless gift
MAYOR BEA Blomquist holds the clock made for her by the "Awesome Pride
Clock Factory." Rosemount High School's eighth hour wood class taught by Rod
Smith. The clock contains a portion of the landmark Lone Oak Tree that was cut
down April 9. 1984. Blomquist was presented with the clock at the Feb. 5 council
meeting. "I almost fell off my chair. It was a complete surprise: It's the nicest gift
I've ever gotten since being mayor," she said.
J
Council rescinds
action and denies
Rahn improvements
By CHRISTY DeJOY
The final vote is in and Rahn
]toad won't be getting the propos-
ed improvements after all. The
Eagan City Council rescinded its
Jan. 2 motion to approve renova-
tion for the street and denied the
project arthe Feb. 5 meeting.
An error was made by the citx
and all property owners along
Rahn Road were not notified. The
city realized the error after
citizens who were not notified
read of council action in local
press and called the Municipal
Center.
At the Feb. 5 public hearing the
council polled residents present
and all but one were opposed to
the improvements, which would
have cost property owners $1,745
per single-family residential lot,
$2.619 per multiple -family resi-
dential lot and $54.96 per front
foot of commercial lots. with pay-
ments spread over 15 years.
The improvements on Rahn
from Beau De Rue to Cliff road
called for new curbs, gutters and
street surface. with a widening of
the street in some areas from 36
to 40 or 44 feet. Turn lanes were
proposed at the corner of Rahn
and Diffley road.
The citizens expressed concern
that Rahn Road would turn into a
main throughway and traffic and
speed of cars would increase
from its current high rate. Many
with children said the area is not
a safe place to live. Other con-
cert>~s were increased noise and
pollution, and the danger of
creating a parking lane.
Some residents, although op-
posed to renovation, requested
additional stop signs to slow traf-
fic on Rahn Road.
"We need a squad (to patrol the
area) there whether there are im-
provements or not." Mayor I3.ea
Blomquist agreed.
IN OTHER ACTION, THE
COUNCIL:
APPROVED the final assess-
ment for Rose Hill and authorized
certification to the county for col-
lection of unpaid assessments to
be spread over five years.
CONTINUED until Feb. 19 the
public hearing for consideration
of sanitary sewer of the Williams
and LaRue Addition.
APPROVED the vacation of
public right-of-way over the east
half of the West Service Road
south of Center Court.
APPROVED the final
Council
See pg. 25A
agan receives grant for picnic park
CHRISTY DeJOY
Although the winter months do
promote thoughts of picnick-
, canoeing, softball and hikes
ong a green lakeside, the
gan Parks and Recreation
epartmenl has been visualizing
-t those things.
The department recently
'caved a grant from the federal
ency of land and water conser-
tion to develop a park at
hwanz Iake. The city was
nted approval for $1I0,500
m the agency, will receive
,250 from the Legislative Corn-
ssion on Minnesota Resources
will match another $55,250
its own funds, according to
ks Director Ken Vraa,
he federal money comes from
hore oil leases and the sale of
al resources off federal land
the state money comes from
part of the tax placed on tobacco.
Vraa said,
The preliminary plat for the ap-
plication was submitted in April
1984 and the formal application
was received October l98H. About
22 applications were filed, but
Eagan was the first to be fully ap-
proved and go through without
any problems. Vraa said.
Vraa credited the rapid ap-
proval to the department's
preparedness and thorough sub-
mission of pertinent information
and to the project itself.
"What we're doing will utilize
and preserve the area. We're not
over using or under using the
park. If you use the land) too
much, you destroy the natural
elements, but it's not good to
minimize the use either," he said.
"I also think 'the rapid ap-
proval) is a credit to the people in
our state (departments). It was a
KEN VRAA
team effort.'
The city hales to plot ahead
with final documents for bidding
contracts in early March and
start with construction sometime
this spring, probably in May,
Vraa said.
"We don't have a definitive
timeline (for a completion date.
but hope to have it completed
sometime in 1986. We should have
a picnic pavilion done next spr-
ing," he said.
Other park features will in-
clude a walking trail, canoe ac-
cess. a dock, scattered picnic
sites besides the one or two large
pavilion areas, sloping for winter
uses such as sliding or tubing,
children's play equipment. a field
for softball or baseball. volleyball
courts, a parking lot and an acces
road connected to Wilderness
Run Road. just south of Dodd
Road.
The picnic area can be reserv-
ed and Vraa said the parks
department is hoping it will be
large enough for about 200 peo-
ple.
"Right now we don't have
anything to handle groups of 100,
125 or even 50. We get so many re-
quests from Boy Scouts, Girl
Scouts, church groups and 'peo-
ple organizing) family reunions.
"This will be our first com-
munity park. It won't be our
largest, in terms of square feet,
but it will be one of the city's
more significant parks. This is a
major step for providing this type
of picnic facility," he said.
The land is part of the Lex-
ington South Planned Unit
Development. It was part of a
park dedication by developer Jim
Curry about a year and a half
ago, Vraa said.
By "process of elimination,"
Schwanz Lake was chosen from
other areas to develop a com-
munity picnic park. he said.
hole to wait out the extended
winter season.
Sometimes I wish I could
scamper back into my cozy bed
after hearing about the early -
morning temperatures on my
clock radio. But, unlike the
groundhog, 1 have to face winter
and its accompanying cold, snow.
ice and below -zero wind chills
which sound unbelievable even to
a Minnesota native.
People across the country say
that Minnesotans arc hearty
because they are able to cope
with changes in temperatures
from 40 degrees below zero to 100
degrees above zero in a matter of
months. Now, I don't know if T
would say that makes me and my
Minnesota neighbors hearty. but
it sure does sound like we are all
pretty crazy to put up with the
stuff dished out to us all year
sweaters, which are beginning to
take over the stores. I count the
days until it actually pays to buy
them. The summer clothes hang-
ing around the stores these days
are really just meant for those
fortunate individuals who will be
traveling south for the remainder
of the season.
Those travelers are trying to
pull the same act as the groun-
dhogs. They are escaping to
warmer places to wait out the
next month or two. They will wait
until Easter or so and start
heading back home.
I can just see the caravan of
mobile homes making its way
across the Minnesota border. The
occupants of those vehicles will
peek out the plastic door and still
gasp at ,ti,. 40-degree (above
zero) temperature. Maybe they
want to or not. Perhaps I'll live
longer because of my determina-
tion. If I have survived the cons-
tant runny nose, chattering teeth,
frozen toes, red nose and chapped
lips for 23 and a half years I guess
1 could probably make it to the
age of 24 easily.
Don't worry. Before we know it
the sun will begin to show up a lit-
tle more often, the cars will run
better on the ice -free pavement
and the tanning lotions will be in
demand.
But just when we begin to see
the patches of green grass com-
ing to life once again. about mid -
April, we'll be hit with the yearly
surprise snow storm, just to re-
mind us that we live in Min-
nesota. But that's another story.
0
understand and impossible for
me to accept that "special" child-
ren cannot be educated within
District 196. A more serious con-
cern of us all should be that Min-
nesota has passed a law requiring
proper education for these
"special" children, and taxpay-
ers are applying good salaries to
administrative personnel to en-
force such laws.
How long will we allow the law
to be ignored and the district to
pass the buck? Are these necess-
ary programs implemented when
convenient or when necessary?
The time and money spent in ef-
forts to refuse such programs
could far better be spent im-
plementing them.
Will someone care?
SANDRA JOHNSON
Apple Valley
official celebration of
Washington's birthday.
although the actual date
is Feb. 22. There will be
no regular mail delivery
that day although Ex-
press Mail and special
delivery service will be
available and there'll be
collections from mail-
boxes beginning in the
afternoon.
In addition, city, coun-
ty, state and federal of-
fices will be closed that
day.
Voels crosses boundary for new PR job
By GARY KUBAT
"I'm leaving one excellent
school district for another ex-
cellent school district," says
Anne Voels. Voels, former public
information coordinator for
School District 191 (Burnsville -
Eagan -Savage), began her new
job as communications specialist
for School District 196 Apple
Valley -Rosemount -Eagan) Feb.
11.
Voels was selected from a field
of 40 candidates for the position,
which was vacated by Ellen
Ferber when she was promoted
to administrative assistant to
Superintendent William Force.
"I applied primarily because it
was a full-time position," she
says. "It's a growing district and
appears to be very progressive."
District 196 has 14,100 students in
two high schools, three middle
schools and 10 elementaries com-
pared to District 191's 8,900
students in one high school, two
junior highs and eight elemen-
t aries.
"I felt. personally," Voels
adds, "that I was ready for an op-
portunity to grow, ready to
change, if you will. This is a
change that allows me to stay
with my first love, public educa-
tion."
A graduate of the University of
Minnesota with a major in psy-
chology and minors in English,
history and speech, Voels has
been a Burnsville resident since
1967. Her sons — Stephen, Alan
and James — all graduated from
Burnsville High School.
She was hired by Don Gimpel,
now principal of Gideon Pond
Elementary, to be an aide at Ed-
ward Neill Elementary in 1969.
The majority of her 11 years
there were spent in the media
center.
In the spring of 1981, the public
information coordinator position
became available. Dee Meyer,
media specialist at Neill, and
Dan Cybyske, a former board
member and close friend, urged
Voels to apply. "Both individual-
ly said. 'That's the job for you,' "
she recalls.
"1 guess what interested me
most is that 1 just believe so
strongly in public education. par-
ticularly here in Minnesota. (The
state has) created a marvelous
public school system." Voels
says.
"Ws a lot of fun to com-
municate about something as
neat as young people and how
they are growing and learning.
The opportunity to watch these
young people, to write about
them and see the kinds of things
that they're doing with the help of
their teachers is exciting. It's the
most positive job in the world,
really."
As public information coor-
dinator, she used her %Titing and
photography skills to produce
"Highlights," the district's news-
letter to residents; a communi-
que to staff members following
board meetings; the school calen-
dar: curriculum guides;
brochures; and several slide -tape
shows.
She was also instrumental in
formulating the district's new
communication plan and started
an information line for residents
and a newsletter for staff mem-
bers.
During nearly four years in the
position. Voels has covered some
of the district's biggest decisions:
the hiring of Superintendent
Theodore Foot, major budget
cuts and the closing of Cedar
Elementary.
"1 think the closing of the
school was the most difficult ),"
she says. "1t was a challenge to
keep the idea positive. I remem-
ber 1 did an article for "High-
lights" and interviewed some of
the -children. talking about the
new school they'd been going to,
and really found the kids were
great. They were excited, accept-
ing and looking forward to their
new school. That made me feel
happier about it."
A continuous challenge is to
"remember to listen, to be open
to what the communities are try-
ing to tell you and to ask for feed-
back," Voels says. "It's so easy
to think you've communicated
when you send out something_
But that isn't all there is to being
a communicator. You need to
listen so you know they're hear-
ing what you're saying on the one
hand and. on the other hand,
you're telling them what it is they
want to know."
She will be responsible for pro-
ducing "Spotlight," a regular
monthly newsletter to residents,
a communique for staff members
following board meetings and a
staff newsletter, among other
duties, as communications
specialist for District 196.
"I hope to review those and
help develop a comprehensive
plan to provide on -going, two-way
communication with the com-
munities. It's a very large dist-
rict. That's going to be the big-
gest challenge — getting to know
it. I've learned a great deal work-
ing with School District 191. I'm
looking forward to sharing all
that with another fine school dist-
rict."
She will also continue to be in-
volved in the Minnesota Chapter
of the National School Public
Relations Association. She has
been on the board for two years.
serving as treasurer this year.
No particular event stands out
as being the best during her
tenure in District 191, Voels says.
"It's really all been a highlight.
That may sound trite, but there
have been so many good things
that I have seen happen in the
district
"The highlight for me. per-
sonally, is the people I've worked
with," she adds. "It's really hard
to leave them."
Special recognition goes to
Tom Lisec, director of communi-
ty services, who was her boss.
"He really taught me a lot. He's a
very supportive person to work
for.
"1'm going to very much miss
the close friendships I've had in
191," Voels says. "I intend to try
and maintain those, while at the
same time making lots of new
ones in 196."
ANNE VOELS, who served as public information coordinator for District 191, is
the new communications specialist for District 196.
2A FEBRUARY 11 1985 THISWEEK
Rahn Road
residents reject
street project
by Tim O'Donnell
Residents along Rahn Road
Tuesday rejected Eagan's plan
to rebuild their street from
Shale Lane to Beau D'Rue
Drive.
About one-half of the 60 af-
fected property owners attend-
ed Tuesday's City Council
meeting and only one favored
the project when the council
polled the audience. The coun-
cil then unanimously voted
against the proposed $760,000
project.
The council had approved the
project Jan. 2 when the opinions
of about 10 of the 60 property
owners in the audience ap-
peared to be split 50-50. City of-
ficials later realized that 38 pro-
perty owners inadvertently
were not notified of the Jan. 2
public hearing. On Jan. 15 the
council canceled its action on
the project and ordered a se-
cond public hearing that was
Tuesday.
Public Works Director Tom
Colbert told the residents that
parts of Rahn Road are beyond
simple repair. The city wanted
to reconstruct parts of the road,
resurface the entire stretch,
and install concrete curbs and
gutters, he said. Part of the
road would have been widened
for parking and turn lanes, he
said.
Although Colbertsaid the pro-
ject was not proposed to in-
crease traffic speed and volume
on Rahn Road, the residents felt
otherwise. They complained
that motorists constantly
disobey the posted 30 mph speed
limit and said they fear for their
children's safety. Widening and
improving the road would bring
more cars and higher speeds,
they said
"If I had a nickel for every
car going by here at 50 miles per
hour, 1 could pay for your
cosmetic improvement," one
resident said.
TA
4
MN-
4
Mayor collects Lone Oak clock
.40
ANL
Photo by Tim O'Donnell
Eagan Mayor Bea Bkxnquist received a clock with group of his woodworking students at Rosemount
a piece of the city's historic Lone Oak Tree at High School made the clock for the mayor.
Tuesday's City Council meeting. Rod Smith and a
8A
Hansen strives to 'save Lassie's friends'
by Terry Tyler
"It's something I'll never
forget. I just hope that through
my project, some of the other
children can be saved," Ellen
Hansen murmurs as she
recalls the tragedy of her
daughter's brutal murder
three years ago.
Cassie Hansen, then 6, was
taken from the Jehovah
Evangelical Lutheran Church
in St. Paul by 52-year-old
Stuart Knowlton. She was
beaten, murdered and tossed
into a trash dumpster two
blocks away. Knowlton was
convicted of first -degree
murder in May 1983 and
sentenced to Life in prison.
One and one-half years ago
Hansen and Cassie's preschool
teacher, Kim Reiner, started
"Save Cassie's Friends," a
non-profit organization which
has a mission to spread ideas,
books and videos on children's
safety.
Hansen still carries on the
crusade. She has helped set up
block homes — a home with a
special sign in the window
alerting a child that the adult
living there will offer help or
safety to the child. Hansen also
advocates child fingerprinting,
which has been done in Eagan.
But most of all, she hopes to
educate children to
discriminate between friends
and potential foes. She has
sent her coloring book and
order form to approximately
380 schools statewide, and the
response has been positive.
"The public is very good,"
Hansen said. "They've sent in
donations and they've shown a
lot of concern. Along with my
orders, I get little notes from
parents saying, 'Thanks for
your time and effort.' That
really makes it worthwhile."
Hansen said she believes
both the coloring book and the
video are successful. "The
coloring book is a fun way to
learn. The children are able to
color and have a good time
while they are learning
something very serious," she
said.
Called "Color Cassie's
Friends Safe," the book
Ellen Hansen shows the Items she sells
through the Save Cassie's Friends organize-
HANSEN: top. 9A tion. The books and videos help children
Photo by Tim O'Donnell
learn to discriminate between friends and
potential foes.
(S)
St. Pool Diipakfi
Toss., Jon. 17, 78
Volunteer helped establish parks
$y BETSY BECKER
Staff Writer
- The old saying goes, "Never
volunteer for anything."
- 1! Barb Schmidt, Eagan's
parks and recreation director,
followed that advice, her city's
parks system might not be what
tt is today.
FIRST AS a volunteer on the
City's parks advisory committee,
then as chairman of the commit-
tee and more recently as part-
time parks director, Mrs.
Schmidt has helped form the
350-acre park system.
She was appointed to the parks
committee in December, 1989.
Eagon1111.11111.
She served on the committee six
years and during the last two of
those years was chairman.
The energetic work of the en-
tire committee led to the pas-
sage of a $1.1 million parks bond
issue in 1971. After that Mrs.
Schmidt assumed a leadership
role that developed into full-time
job as of the first of this year.
FOUR YEARS ago, while still
a volunteer she helped start a
summer recreation program. In
April, 1975, she was hired on a
part-time basis as parks direc-
tor. Over the past two years, the
position expanded to a full-time
Mrs. Schmidt said she never
intended to seek full-time work.
While she was raising her two
children, she did the volunteer
work_
"It's fortunate how it worked
out With my two children in col-
lege, I'm now in a position to
work full-time," she said.
"I am really satisfied to be in-
volved with shaping the commu-
nity for the future," she said
It was a concern about the
growing community and a sense
of civic responsibility that led
her to the park committee in "
1969.
"I lived all around the country
and used a lot of different park
systems when my children were
younger. Basically, I came to
Eagan because of the open space
it had to offer," she commented.
"I FELT STRONGLY that
some of it had to be preserved. I
could see growth beginning to
occur. But little was being done
about parks," sbe added.
She remembers a town meet-
ing in 1968 at which citizens de-
feated by one vote a proposal to
seek professional assistance in
developing a park plan,
Almost two years later, she
started working with the park
committee to set a park system
' oinv .",tuty.
•he was
state and federal funds. Some of
it was dedicated to the city by
developers
SEVEN YEARS ago, there
were two ice skating rinks. To-
day there are 16. Tennis courts
and playing fields have been
developed.
Mrs. Schmidt has a work crew
of four permanent employees
and three others who are em-
ployed through the federally
funded Comprehensive Employ-
ment and Training Act.
Recently, a part-time recre-
ation programmer was added.
Mrs. Schmidt also is in charge of
the city's diseased tree program.
She and the parks committee
are now working on a five-year
plan to be included in the city's
park development guide. Other
projects to be tackled this year
include pinpointing locations for
neighborhood parks and laying
out trails for the city's proposed
trail system.
Mrs. Schmidt said she enjoys
the variety of ber work and the
challenges of working with other
governmental agencie. Her skill
in obtaining grants has helped
bring about $435,000 in state and
federal grants to Eagan. Another
$177.000 is anticipated.
She started work on a masters
degree in public administrtion
through Mankato State Universi-
ty last fall. Mrs. Schmidt earned
a bachelor's degree at Metropoli- •
tan State University.
a
Barb Schmidt, who was recently appointed to r
time position as parks and recreation director in E
works at her desk. — Staff Photo by Betsy Becker
EAGAN
POSTAL
PATRON
LOCAL or
BOXHOLDER
HRONICL E
a Current newspaper
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Cartier Pre Sort
U S. Portage Paid
MINNESOTA
SUBURBAN
NEWSPAPERS
SECTION A
Week of Jan. 7, 1985 Vol. 6, No. 2
Bringing you the news of the people, the neighborhoods and business of Eagan
TWO SECTIONS
Glance back at Eagan's stories
January
The Dakota County Western Court Facility, built
for $870,000, opened at Cliff and Rahn roads.
Eagan joined a dozen Twin Cities suburbs forming
the Municipal Legislative Commission to lobby for
reversing cuts the state Legislature made in local
government aids.
John Voss was elected chairman of the Dakota
County Board of Commissioners. replacing Russell
Streefland, who was chosen chairman of the Human
Services Board.
Eight -year -old Natalie Moore made her stage
debut in "Annie" at the Chanhassen Dinner Theatre.
She was the youngest cast member.
Todd Boonstra earned a berth on the 1984 U.S.
Olympic cross country ski team.
Fifty-two employees of School District 191 were
honored for 20 or more years of service.
District 191 school officials said a controversial
attendance policy appeared to have reduced
absenteeism and tardiness.
A School District 196 task force said a new high
school and two elementary schools were needed in
the district.
Developers of the proposed Eagan horse racing
track considered themselves one of the frontrunners
among eight competitors.
Current Newspapers Inc., publisher of the Eagan
Chronicle, was sold to Free Newspaper Co, (FNCO)
and merged with Sailor Newspapers and Sun
Newspapers, which FNCO also bought.
William Force began his job as superintendent of
School District 196.
Absenteeism ran about 10 percent as the annual
flu bug hit area school students.
February
The Dakota County Housing and Redevelopment
Community leaders celebrated the opening of a stret
Authority made about $5 million in loans available to
first-time homebuyers in Eagan.
Community Services program participants in
School District 191 gave the department a B-plus
grade.
Sperry officials assured neighboring Timberline
Addition residents that by the end of March they
would curb noise problems at the semiconductor
plant.
The Dakota County Board hired a firm to lobby the
state Legislature.
Not -west Bank celebrated the grand opening of its
Eagan facility.
The School District 196 Board of Education
decided to survey residents for their suggestions on
how to handle space problems in the schools. The
survey would be conducted before a bond
referendum goes to voters in the fall.
The School District 191 Board of Education
accepted $12,052 raised from the Braves Days
celebration to restore nine extracurricular positions.
Because of an increase in the number of city water
and sewer users, Eagan did not have to raise rates
for those services in 1984.
Eagan Police officers fingerprinted elementary
school students to help parents and police find them
if they get lost or kidnapped.
March
Donna Scholta was named teacher of the year by
the Burnsville Education Association.
Burnsville High School's hockey team defeated
Photos by Tim O'Donnell
ch of I.35E Iasi November in Eagan.
Apple Valley 4-0 to win the Section 1 hockey final
and advance to the state tournament. The Braves
won one of three games in the state tournament to
finish sixth,
Burnsville High School's girls basketball team
came from behind in the final period to defeat New
Prague 41-38 for the Region IAA final. The Braves
defeated Derham Hall and Edina in the state
tournament opening rounds, then lost the
championship game to Little Falls 45-43.
Ed Zelkind, a Russian emigre, won Minnesota's
chess championship in St. Paul.
The School District 196 Board of Education heard
proposals to move elementary school students and
set up portable classrooms to ease the space crunch.
More than 1,000 Mendota Heights residents signed
a petition opposing the construction of Minnesota's
horse racing track in Eagan.
The School District 191 Board of Education
decided to abolish for the next school year an
attendance policy that lowers students' grades for
unexcused absences or tardies.
The Eagan City Council adopted a curfew for
persons under age 18.
The City Council decided to put the question of $4.4
million in park improvements to the voters in a two-
part referendum in May.
The Minnesota Racing Commission decided on a
5-4 vote that the state's first horse racing track with
pari-mutuel betting would be built in Shakopee.
Eagan made it a near photo finish with four votes.
The Dakota County Western Court Facility open-
ed last January in Eagan.
1984: to p. 5A
"Warm -Up to Winter Sidewalk Sale"
January 10-13 1 •�
Between Target & Sullivan's Super Valu
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11A
Reviewing Eagan's stories of last year
1984: from p. 6A
School District 196 voters defeated a request for
$24.5 million to build a new high school, theater,
stadium and ice arena. They approved a $12.4
million bond issue for two new elementary schools
and special education facilities.
October
Restaurateur William Dahlberg bought Vogy's
restaurant.
Brockway Glass officials announced they would
close the Rosemount plant, leaving 950 people
jobless.
Eagan formed a City Celebration Committee.
A U.S. District Court jury convicted John
LaForge, 28, and Barbara Katt, 26, of Bemidji who
admitted they smashed and then poured blood on
computer parts Aug. 10 at Sperry Corp. Sentencing
would follow in abouta month for the couple, who
dubbed themselves the "Sperry Software Pair."
Larry Wenzel was elected president of the new
Eagan Chamber of Commerce.
November
Eagan received Star City status from the
Minnesota Department of Energy and Economic
Development.
Interstate 35E opened from Lone Oak Road to
Highway 110.
M.G. Astleford Co. officials postponed their plans
for a 200-room hotel at Cliff Road and Interstate 35E,
leaving city officials scrambling on the deadline day
to find other developers to use the company's $6.7
million allotment of industrial development bond
financing.
The city enacted an odd -even day winter parking
ban.
The Eagan Airport Noise Committee
recommended ways to abate the noise from
airplanes flying over the city.
The Community Action Council requested $300,000
of Eagan's, Apple Valley's and Burnsville's $324,000
in Community Development Block Grants to build a
new B. Robert Lewis House for battered women.
The Burnsville High School girls tennis team
placed second in the state tournament.
The Dakota County Board of Commissioners
entered negotiations with Northern States Power Co.
to build a plant to derive burnable materials from
garbage and burn them for energy at the Black Dog
Power Plant. Later this month the County Board
decided it could not find a site for the plant by Dec.
18, the deadline to make NSP eligible for industrial
development bond financing from Hennepin County.
Election winners included county commissioners
John Voss, Russell Streefland and Joseph Harris,
and state Rep. Arthur Seaberg_
Burnsville High School's football team defeated
Bloomington Jefferson 14-7 for the Region 6AA title.
Stillwater edged the Braves 36-33 at the Metrodome
in the state championship game.
Burnsville High School's girls swim team won the
Region 1AA title and placed second at the state
meet.
The City Council approved a bow and arrow deer
HEL P KEEP THE
TORCHLIT
The Hair Line
t■■�: —
Fridays beginning October 26, 1984 thru June 1986
will be Liberty Day
i
ED
hunt through the end of 1984 to reduce a dangerously
high deer population.
About 150 hunters killed 60 deer during a
successful two-day hunt in the Minnesota River
valley.
U.S. District Court Judge Miles Lord put Barbara
Katt and John LaForge on probation after they were
found guilty of destroying government property at
Sperry Corp. Lord also blasted Sperry Corp. for its
involvement in nuclear weapons manufacturing.
December
Eagan joins several other northern Dakota County
cities in calling for a county resident to replace St.
Paul resident Carol Wold Sindt as the District 15
Metropolitan Council representative.
Eden Prairie -based Check Technology Corp. of-
ficials announced they will move their computer
printing systems business to Eagan.
Nicols Road residents opposed Peter Stalland's
plans to build mini -storage warehouses on wetlands
less than one mile south of the Minnesota River.
Asbestos was found in four District 196 schools and
school officials said it would be removed.
Federal Land Co. officials revealed plans for a
10-story office building and a 144,000-square-foot
shopping center near Yankee Doodle Road to be
finished next fall.
County Court Judge William Thuet allowed the
Eagan Police Department to use money seized in
drug busts to buy toys and food for needy families at
Christmas.
CRAFT,
1 _ I ;
ir
12A
Chronicle sports
Braves advance to semifinals of tournament
by Bob Roth
Burnsville advanced to the
winner's bracket of it's own
tournament with a 46-28 win
over Waseca. The Braves
played Shakopee in the
semifinals Friday, after this
paper went to press.
The Braves opened the se-
cond quarter with eight
unanswered points in building a
20-14 lead. Burnsville's defense
allowed just four points in the
second and third quarters.
With Burnsville leading 18-14,
the team went to a slow -down
offense, and killed about three
minutes off the clock in the se-
cond quarter. Burnsville Coach
Bob Swanhorst said his team
went to that offense because
Waseca was in the zone defense.
A Greg Rudrud basket late in
the third quarter put Burnsville
ahead by 13 points at 31-18 for
the Braves' biggest lead of the
game to that point. Waseca was
held scoreless in the third
quarter until 49 seconds re-
mained.
In the fourth quarter, two
straight baskets by sophomore
center Scott Bennett put Burns-
ville up by 12 at 39-27. Waseca
mustered only one more point
the rest of the way.
Scoring was not available as
this paper went to press. Paul
Heidecker had 10 rebounds and
Bennett grabbed nine.
Swanhorst said Bennett played
one of his best games. Brent
Roesler had four assists. Ben-
nett and Mark Robinson each
had three.
"Our kids did a good job with
on the pressure defense,"
Swanhorst said. Roesler had a
good, sound defensive game.
Robinson had a couple of steals.
We did a good job of blocking
out on the boards."
Burnsville travels to Min-
netonka Friday.
In a key game of the tourna-
ment, Park Center nipped Iron -
dale 47-46. Park Center played
Woodbury in the other
semifinal game. The winner of
that game and the winner of the
Burnsville -Shakopee game
played Saturday.
Schmidt scores 21
but Rosemount loses
EAGAN PROGRESS
EDITION 1985
.,� 'Am
County Road 30/Diffley Road
.KIP
La•
1• Cliff Road
To zoological gardens
K*.t'. I._..
Interstate 494
Yankee Doodle Road
raw.
This is much more than a Sunday Drive!
by Amy O'Marro •
Grab your coat and ease on those driv-
ing gloves, this is much more than a Sun-
day drive!
This is a guide through Eagan's pro-
gress. Drive the guide and you'll loop
around and through Eagan and see how
it has grown.
Keep your eyes open though, we can't
possibly mention all there is to see. As
we point out the 1985 hallmarks,
remember the many other businesses
and neighborhoods which continue
CI
Eagan's progress.
Are you ready? Begin at Yankee Doo-
dle Road and Interstate 35E in the heart
of Eagan. East of the intersection is the
Yankee Square complex (1) . The com-
plex is a package of offices, restaurants,
shops and lodging. Quite a site. Across
the street is the Sperry Corp(2) .
East on Yankee Doodle and on your
Ieft is the water treatment plant(3). It's
brand new and was christened just three
weeks ago.
Driving on, we meet Highway 13.
Look straight ahead into the distance.
Nestled in the Minnesota River Valley
is the Comsery Corp. headquarters(41.
The aluminum and glass structure
designed by Opus Corp. was the reci-
pient of an architectural award by Cor-
porate Report Minnesota this year.
Turn left on Highway 13. The building
on your left is the home of Blue
Cross/Blue Shield of Minnesota (5) .
Further south on Highway 13 is the
Cedar Industrial Park. This is the home
of the Seneca Waste Water Treatment
AND • NT ' Y.., THE BEST
F
Plant(6).
At the stoplights on Highway 13 and
Silver Bell Road, look left. You will be
passing the Silver Bell Center and the
Cedarvale Shopping Center(? and 8).
You'll have to come back to browse
these quaint shops.
At the Highway 13 and Cliff Road in-
tersection take a Ieft. Drive east over
Cedar Avenue and back into Eagan. To
your left is the Mari Acres Develop -
TOUR: to p.3A
Eagan wins most progressive title hands down
Once again, Eagan has the title as
the fastest growing city in the state of
Minnesota. A title the city has had for
four consecutive years.
Eagan constructed 952 dwelling
units during 1984, 130 more than its
closest competitor, Eden Prairie.
For the first six months of 1985,
Eagan exceeded its 1984 permits. The
Protective Inspections Department
estimated the city issued 508 single
family permits and approximately
250 multiple permits through August.
Because of all of the building ac-
tivity in the past four years, Eagan
completed a special census. The
preliminary population count shows
30,479 people and 11,542 housing units.
Housing units are buildings having
roof, windows and doors, therefore,
many of the permits issued may not
have reached the housing unit status
for counting in the 1985 census.
A substantial amount of commer-
cial, industrial development occur-
red in 1985_ The major upcoming
developments include United Parcel
Service's 350 square foot distribution
facility at the intersection of County
Road 63-A and Highway 149; Federal
Land Co.'s l0-story, 110,000 square
foot office building on Yankee Doodle
Road;
Trammell Crow's 75,000 square
foot, four-story office building near
Interstate 494 and Pilot Knob Road;
and Opus Corp.'s three-story, 75,000
square foot office building in the
Eagandale Office Park. A number of
other office buildings have been ap-
proved and are ready for develop-
ment.
Eagan doubled its assessed valua-
tion for permits in the first six months
of 1985, according to the Protective
Inspections Department_
The assessed valuation for
buildings through July 1984 was
estimated at $42.7 million. The
assessed valuation for buildings in
the first six months of 1985 was $83.9
million, or about double the 1984
valuation.
I hope this will provide an insight
into the 1985 development activity.
Recent and upcoming freeway open-
ings point to a continued increase of
development in Eagan.
Dale Runkle
City planner
Bus tour, progress edition
promote development
The Eagan Chamber of Com-
merce, a division of the Dakota
County Chamber of Commerce, and
the city of Eagan take pride in pro-
moting the development of Eagan by
sponsoring the 1985 Eagan Progress
Edition and the third Eagan In-
dustrial/Commercial/Residential
Bus Tour.
The bus tour begins at 3 p.m.,
Thursday, Oct. 3, at the newly -
opened Al Baker's Restaurant
located at 3434 Washington Drive,
near Yankee Doodle and Pilot Knob
roads.
The purpose of the bus tour is to
help businesses, investors, financial
institutions and developers discover
the potentials and opportunities
available in Eagan. A reception
following the bus tour will be at Al
Baker's Restaurant.
Your Chamber of Commerce is
responsible for helping generate an
atmosphere among the business
community, residents, elected of-
ficials and city staff that promotes
increased use of Eagan's well plann-
ed and zoned industrial, commercial
and residential areas. To do this,
your Chamber provides information
to, and cooperates with, businesses,
industries and civic agencies in-
terested in new expanded plant loca-
tions in the city of Eagan.
This Progress Edition of 1985,
planned by the Eagan Chronicle and
the Bus Tour Committee, and the
1985 Industrial/Commer-
cial/Residential Bus Tour are just
two of the many vehicles used to
achieve your Chamber's goals.
We welcome you to the bus tour
and reception at Al Baker's!
John J. Klein, chairman
Eagan Industrial/Commer-
cial/Residential Tour Committee
w
A glass entrance will grace the ten -story
Town Center 100 office building.
Providing Power for Progress
Since 1937, Cooperatively!
Free Services Include
Locating Underground
Power Lines, Tree
Trimming/Removal along
Overhead Lines, and
Free Home Energy Audits!
Budget Billing Plans
Available. Too!
1
fit
•
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To Report an Outage
or Hazardous Condition
Please Call 463-7134.
Telephone Answered Day
and Night. 7 Days Per
Week.
Eagan Chronicle Progress datit),"
.0•rk of September 30, 1985
Take a drive through Eagan's progress
TOUR: from p.1A
ment(9) and the brand new Cedar Cliff
Shopping Center(10). That sweet
aroma of food is coming from the
restaurant area across the street( 11).
Are you watching your speed? You
better because we are approaching the
Driver's Exam Testing Station and
Dakota County Court Facility( 12 ).
Continue east over I-35E and past
Johnny Cake Road. The Minnesota
Zoological Gardens are on Johnny Cake
in Apple Valley.
At the Cliff and Pilot Knob intersec-
tion take a right. A short distance south
is Lebanon Hills Regional Park(13).
Now loop back onto Cliff Road and con-
tinue traveling east. •
Turn left onto Lexington Avenue.
You'll pass Walnut Hill (on your right)
and Goat Hill (on your left) municipal
parks. Goat Hill has a hockey rink and
will be teaming with skaters this
winter.
Farther north you'll pass Patrick
Eagan (left) and Northview (right hand
side) parks. Northview is an athletic
field park(14).
Take a left at Duckwood Drive and
follow it to Derfmark. At the intersec-
tion you will see construction on Town
Center 70 office complex(15). Follow
Denmark to Crestridge Lane and turn
right. Take Crestridge to Pilot Knob
and turn left.
Follow Pilot Knob south to Wescott
Road. Turn left on Wescott, and look to
your right. There's the Eagan City Hall
and police station( 16). Just east of the
Municipal Center is the Dakota County
Library( 171.
Continue east on Wescott to County
Road 149. turn left and travel north. At
County Road 63A, to your right, the
UPS center is under construction(1S).
Follow 149 north and just before you
Photos by Amy O'Marr)
Opus Corp. crews are busy constructing an office warehouse in the Esgandale
Center off of Pilot Knob Road.
reach I-494 you will see construction
work for the Northwest Airlines head-
quarters to your right(19).
Take the I-494 ramp west. Just after
you pass over 1-35E, you will be able to
see the Coca-Cola plant on your lef t(20) .
Continue on 1-494 until the Pilot Knob
exit ramp. The Minneapolis/St. Paul In-
ternational Airport is just west on I-494.
At the Pilot Knob exit ramp get off the
interstate and follow Pilot Knob south.
Over the bridge and to your right is con-
struction for Trammel Crow's Eagan
Woods office complex( 21)_
On the left you'll see Opus Corp. busy
working in the Eagandale Office
Park(22). Within the park is an office
warehouse(23).
Drive into Eagandale Center on Cor-
porate Center Drive. Follow the irive
as it meets Old Avalon Drive and meets
Eagandale Boulevard. Take Eagandale
and follow to Lone Oak Road. Turn left
on Lone Oak.
Lone Oak will take you east, at Lunar
Lane turn right, and take another right
at Apollo Road. At Neil Armstrong
Boulevard turn left. then turn right on
Gemini Road.
Gemini will take you back to Lex-
ington Avenue, Take Lexington south
and you will pass the U.S. Post Office
Bulk Mail F'acility(24).
Continue south to Yankee Doodle and
turn right. As you travel west on
Yankee Doodle, on your left is Town
Center 100, an office complex with a
IO-story office building(25).
That's the tour. you are back where
you started. Develop you own routes and
get to know Eagan even better.
Opus Corp.'s office warehouse.
Town Center 100.
Birch Park
Pilot Knob & Deerwood Drive
NOW OPEN
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Eagan Chronicle Progress Edition — Week of September 30. 1985 — Page 3
It will be the moment everyone is anxiously waiting for
Minnesota Department of Transportation crews are busy finishing construction on Interstate 35E.
The freeway should be open by the winter of 1985.
YOUR RETREAT
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A place to relax and socialize. Our
friendly staff and programs in rac-
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make it easy and fun to keep fit. The
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OTHER AMENITIES:
• Exercise Room
• Indoor and Outdoor Pools
• Whirlpool
• Sauna
Memberships available to suit your needs. Pay in monthly dues.
FOR LIMITED TIME!
1/2 PRICE OFF
One time joining fee for new members with this ad.
Offer good through Oct. 31, 1985.
The Eagandale Club
3330 Pilot Knob Road
Jusi north of Yankee Doodle Shopping Or
454-8190
Pa,e 4 — Eagan Chronicle Progress Edition — Week of September 30, 1985
Photo by Amy O'Marro
by Amy O'Marro
It will be the moment everyone has
been planning, working and waiting for.
A bright ribbon will be stretched
across the lanes of Interstate 35E this
November to mark its opening at the in-
tersection of Cliff Road and I-35E.
It's just a quick 20-minute trip to
either of the Twin Cities. The proximity
to Minneapolis and St. Paul is partly
responsible for making Eagan the most
progressively growing city in Min-
nesota, City Planner Dale Runkle said.
This calls for a celebration, and that's
just what the members of the City
Celebration Committee, Chamber of
Commerce and Minnesota Department
of Transportation staff are planning.
A huge pair of shears is being honed
for the ribbon -cutting ceremony to en-
courage residents to come and join the
celebration at 10 a.m. on a Saturday
morning.
The party following the ribbon cutting
will celebrate the official opening of
I-35E and Eagan's 125th birthday. A
parade of historic vehicles will show the
long way transportation in Eagan has
come. Antique vehicles from 1860 to the
modern vehicles of today will travel
north on I-35E and Cliff Road to Yankee
Doodle Road.
There may be a 10 kilometer race in-
cluded in the celebration. Runners
might follow a course along the in-
terstate, says City Administrator Tom
Hedges. Plans for the run are tentative
and weather conditions may cancel the
run.
A reception, open to the public, will
follow the parade at the Yankee Square
Inn, just east of I-35E and Yankee Doo-
dle.
The date for the I-35E ceremonies will
be announced later in October in the
local newspapers.
YANKEE
SQUARE
INN
• 109 Luxurious single,
double & executive
suites
• Continental breakfast
• Kitchenette apartment
• Whirlpool, sauna and
exercise facilities
• Special weekend
family rates
• Shuttle bus service
• Rental cars available
• Free HBO
• Membership to
Eagandale Racquet
Club
• Professional Catering Available • Audio Visual Aids
• Professional Banquet and Meeting Rooms
accommodating 5 to 125
YANKEE SQUARE INN
3450 Washington Drive
Eagan, Minnesota 55122
612-452-0100
OUT -STATE MINNESOTA 1-800-624-2888
Appearances
Have Changed
But,our quality service has remained the same.
For more than 20 years,
MinnesotaBank of Eagan has
served the area,
helping Eagan grow.
9MinnesotaBank
454-3300
Main Office
3900 Sibley Memorial Hwy.
(Near Cedarvale)
24 Hour banking available with your
MinnosotaMoney' Cash Card
Yankee Square Office
Yankee Doodle & Pilot Knob
(Near Yankee Square)
Mit IYTIK
LENDER
Eagan Chronicle Progress Edition — Week of September 30, 1985 — Page 5
Parks take part in the city's swift development
Photos by Amy O'Marro
Goat Hill Park off of Lexington Ave. got new curbing and a
hockey rink this summer.
by Amy O'Marro
Swift progress in Eagan does not
mean the loss of the tree -lined hills or
the sparkling ponds that grace the city.
The Eagan Park and Recreation
Department will see to that. A $4.4
million bond issue passed by voters last
year allowed the city to buy about 400
acres of parkland. The city is adding
about 95 park acres to its 126 acres of
developed parkland.
"The focus of our park system is on
neighborhood and community parks.
They are in greatest demand. When you
add 5,000 people to a city, the people are
first," said Ken Vraa, park and recrea-
tion director.
One of the most recent park acquisi-
tions includes the early park dedication
of land owned by Blue Cross/Blue
Shield of Minnesota, just off Highway
13. A neighborhood park was needed in
that neighborhood, Vraa said. Develop-
ment of the site into a park with
playground equipment, a ball and soc-
cer field and an ice rink for hockey and
skating should be completed by the spr-
ing of 1986. Vraa said.
Another park acquisition includes
land adjacent to where the new Eagan
Elementary School will be built near
Pilot Knob and Deerwood Avenue. A
joint acquisition was made between the
city and School District 196 and the
park will supplement the new school,
Vraa said. The school will be con-
structed for a 1987 opening.
Additional athletic sites may be add-
ed in Eagan in the late 1980s. Any addi-
tional parkland will be used to develop
"more intensive sporting facilities,"
such as softball, baseball and soccer
fields, Vraa said.
Park improvements include finishing
development to four parks next year.
Vraa said the $1.1 million second phase
of the park referendum will go to future
park needs.
The $3.3 million first phase of the
referendum already enhanced Goat
Hill, Walnut Hill, Schwanz Lake and
Fish Lake parks.
PARKS: to p.14A
Hillsides were transformed into amphitheaters while other landscapes will host
baseball and soccer fields for Eagan's parks.
The Eagan
Chamber of Commerce
Division of the Dakota County Chambers of Commerce
takes pride in promoting the development of Eagan by sponsoring the 3rd Annual Eagan
Industrial, Commercial & Residential Bus Tour.
President
Dakota County
Chambers of Commerce
President
Eagan Chamber of
Commerce
President
West St. Paul
Chamber of Commerce
Ed Michaud
Sperry Computer Systems
Paul Hauge
Hauge, Eide &
Keller
Marlene Oberstee
Signal Hills
Shopping Center
OFFICERS
President•elect
Dakota County
Chambers of Commerce
Treasurer
Dakota County
Chambers of Commerce
President
Mendota Heights
Chamber of Commerce
Margaret Peck
Sun -Current Newspapers
Larry Mazanec
Mazanec & Bauer
Lucille Collin
EAGAN BOARD MEMBERS OF THE DAKOTA
DAKOTA COUNTY CHAMBERS OF
COMMERCE
OFFICE STAFF
C. Wm. (Bill) Escher, Executive Director
Dorrine Busta
1301 Corporate Center Drive
Eagan, MN 55121
452-9872
Lamy W.wl
Wetzel Mechanical
& Hide Elocirie
Paul Haug•
Haug.. Smith.
Eide & K.11.r
Ed Mthrd
5peny CompuWr
SysWlS
WAN illedbillhio
Moo Cower
Owe Sider
David Klewnola
Prolessaanal
Travel Managsm.n1
frosesso
Imo III*
Trr, a illy
Jerry Braun
Sfm el.
Page 6 — Eagan Chronicle Progress Edition — Week .,f September 30, 1985
Ken Vraa, Eagan park and recreation director, overlooked construction in Walnut
Hill Park. Walnut Hill is located east of Lexington Ave.
r
RAMSTAD, THEISEN
& KEN N EDY, Chartered
Attorneys at Law
Roger J. Ramstad Joel A. Theisen
Jeffrey W. Kennedy
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• Family Law
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Monday -Friday • Saturday by Appointment
452-4252
3918 Beau-D-Rue Dr. Eagan, MN
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Members First Bank System
'21985 First hank System Members FDIC
Eagan Chronicle Progress Edition — Week of September 30. 1985 — Page 7
• REAL ESTATE • INVESTMENTS
• LAND DEVELOPMENT
JOHN J. KLEIN
Associates, Inc. Broker
1495 LONE OAK ROAD
EAGAN, MINNESOTA 55121
PHONE (612) 454-4732
INC.
• CONSULTANT • INVESTMENTS
• LAND DEVELOPMENT
JOHN J. KLEIN,
PRESIDENT
1495 LONE OAK ROAD
EAGAN, MINNESOTA 55121
PHONE (612) 454-4732
We are proud to be
part of the
dynamic growth
in
Eagan
Restaurant hi Eagan
The fun place before
and after
for your favorite
food and cocktails
Pilot Knob & Yankee Doodle Road
454-9000
Photos by Amy O'Marro
Larry Wenzel, president of the Eagan Chamber of Commerce un• til October 1985,
watched over the ribbon cutting ceremonies for the Highway 149 and Interstate
494 Sept. 17.
S-13
SIGNAL HILLS BANK
THE RESPONSIVE BANK
Signal Hills office
100 Signal Hills, West St. Paul 55118
457-1776
Southview office
2060 South Robert St., West St. Paul 55118
457-1776
Eagan Office and
Financial Resource Center
1480 Yankee Doodle Road, Eagan 51122
452-9200
Page 8 — Eagan Chronicle Progress Edition — Week of September 30. 1985
Member FDIC
Eagan's explosive growth is paved by proper roads
by John J. Klein
Project director
Urban Council on Mobility
More than 400 years ago Sir Frances
Bacon, renowned philosopher and
statesman, advised Queen Elizabeth I
that there are three things that make a
nation great: fertile soils, industrious
people and good roads to move the peo-
ple and products from place to place.
Realizing the wisdom of this
philosophy and being acutely aware of
the inadequate transportation cor-
ridors serving, or not serving, if you
will, this area, the Urban Council on
Mobility formed in the fall of 1974. This
non-profit citizens group of residents
and business leaders was concerned
about the delays in construction of
these vitally needed transportation cor-
ridors.
The Urban Council on Mobility's pur-
pose was to effect the earliest possible
completion of interstates 35E and 494
and the new Cedar Avenue (Highway
77) Bridge, along with the upgrading of
the deficient state highway and county
road systems in the area.
The physical and psychological bar-
riers, which resulted from the bridge
bottlenecks and congestion on the over-
crowded bridges and roads. have been
systematically removed as each new
bridge and section of upgraded road-
way opens for public use.
The Cedar Avenue Bridge opened
from Bloomington to Highway 13 in
Eagan Oct. 30. 1980. Cedar Avenue,
from Highway 13 through the Cliff Road
interchange, opened in the summer of
1981. I-35E from I-35W in Burnsville to
Cedar Avenue in Eagan opened Nov. 17,
1981. The segment of 1-494 from 34th
Street in Bloomington across the new
1-494 Minnesota River crossing bridge
to Highway 55 in Eagan opened Nov. 9,
1982. I-35E from the Lone Oak Road in-
terchange to St. Clair Avenue in St.
Paul opened Oct. 26, 1984. 1-494 from the
1-494/1-35E interchange through the
1-494/Highway 149 (Dodd Road) inter-
change recently opened, Sept. 17, 1985.
I-35E from Cedar Avenue to Lone
Oak Road will be opened at the Golden
Spike Ceremony to be on or about Nov.
20 this year. This will complete the
1-35E system in Dakota County and will
permit non-stop traffic from St. Clair
Avenue in St. Paul to Texas.
I-494 from Concord Street (Highway
56) in South St. Paul westerly through
and including the I-494/Lafayette
(Highway 3) interchange will also be
opened on or about Nov. 20 this year.
The remainder of I-494 from Highway
149 to the Lafayette Freeway will open
in the fall of 1986 and will complete the
entire 1-494/1-694 interstate beltline_
With the completion of these interstate
systems. Eagan will be within 30
minutes driving time to or from
anywhere i-n the seven county
metropolitan area.
The upgrading and widening of
Yankee Doodle Road will take place
next year.
Although all these road constructions
have caused inconveniences and have
tested the patience of many people, the
sweetness of more efficient and much
safer roads justifies the inconvenience
tolerated during their construction.
Eagan has always had the first two
ingredients — fertile soils and in-
dustrious people, as set forth in Sir
Fances Bacon's advice to Queen
Elizabeth I, but it lacked the third, good
roads. These new and upgraded roads
now provide that third vital ingredient.
Logistically, Eagan is poised for ex-
plosive growth, and the Golden Spike
Ceremony will accelerate the already
explosive growth which has taken place
in Eagan.
Your
Energetic Partner
in the Growth
of
Our Star City
EAGAN
lijkPeoples
Natural Gas
Company
STATUS & SCHEDULES
I-35E & 1-494
DAKOTA COUNTY
DAKOTA
COUNTY
PEl STATE BANK
Dakota Counfy
Sfcile Bank
New Eagan Office
NOW OPEN
OUR NEW FULL SERVICE BANKING FACILITY
IS LOCATED IN THE CEDAR CLIFF SHOPPING CENTER
• 2109 CLIFF ROAD IN EAGAN
DAKOTA COUNTY STATE BANK HAS OFFICES NOW IN
MENDOTA HEIGHTS AND INVER GROVE HEIGHTS
WE ARE A BANK ON THE GROW!!!!
WE ARE LARGE ENOUGH TO ASSIST YOU IN PRACTICALLY EVERY
FINANCIAL MATTER YET SMALL ENOUGH TO KNOW AND CARE
ABOUT YOU PERSONALLY.
STOP BY AND MEET OUR PROFESSIONAL STAFF
DAKOTA
COUNTY
STATE BANK
2109 CUFF 0010, EAGAN • 454-4840
Eagan Chronicle Progress Edition — Week of September 30. 1985 — Page 9
Photo by Rachej Thompson
The ribbon cutting ceremony for the Eagan Water Treatment Plant was Sept. 17. Mayor Bea Blom- quist took the honor of shredding the ribbon.
Water treatment plant opens
by Amy C'Marro
Sparkling clear water is all that
Eagan residents will get from their
faucets now that the city's Water Treat.
ment Facility is operating.
City officials officially opened the
facility Sept. 14 with a ribbon cutting
ceremony. The city water treatment
fund paid for the completion of the
plant, said Public Works Director Tom
Colbert. The building cost $3.373.529.
The total project was $605,658.
The fund comes from one-time new
water service connections and in-
creases in water charges. Colbert said.
Increases were 6.9 cents per 1.000
gallons in 1965.
Those present for the festivities in-
cluded Mayor Bea Blomquist, Colbert.
City Administrator Tom Hedges, coun-
cilmembers Tom Egan and Jerry
Thomas, utility department supervisor
Paul Heuer and utitlities superinten-
dent Joe Connolly.
,Blomquist also christened the Water
Treatment Facility by bursting a water
balloon against the building.
The facility removes manganese
From Eagan's water, Connolly said.
The water coming to the plant is
chlorinated and the minerals are
filtered. Fluoride is also added to the
water during treatment.
The plant automated operations
began in March and continued until the
September completion. Completed, the
plant removes manganese from about
12 million gallons of water daily, but it
has a capacity to treat 32 million
gallons of water daily, Connolly said.
EAGANDALE
CENTER
1300-acre office and industrial park
...close to all that matters.
• Probate
• Wills
• Corporations
• Business Law
• Real Estate
Mayor Bea Blomquist hoisted a water ballon to christen the Eagan Water
Treatment Plant.
HAuGE
FIDE
KELLEh,
P.A.
EAGAN ATTORNEYS
In the General Practice of Law
Paul H. Hauge
Kevin W. Eide
David G. Keller
Lori M. Bellin
initial Consultation - No Charge
• Criminal
• DWI
• Traffic Law
• Bankruptcy
• Development
• Adoption
• Family Law
• Personal Injury
• Condemnation
Cedarvale Professional Building
3908 Sibley Memorial Highway
454-4224
800 Opus Center • 9903 Been (find East
PC) Box 150. Minneapoits. Minnesota 55440.612 936-4444
Page 10 — Eagan Chronicle Progress Edition — week of September 30. 1985
(Behind Minnesota Bank Eagan)
We've both come
a long way, Eagan.
July, 1983
Norwest Bank to open branch
AMONG THOSE participating in groundbreaking cere-
monies for the new Eagan branch of Norwest Bank Old
St. Anthony, N.A. were: John Silseth, president of
Norwest Bank Old St. Anthony; Bea Blomquist, Eagan
mayor; and Larry Kraning, vice president and branch
manager of Norwest Bank Old St. Anthony.
We've both ex-
perienced
many changes —
CHANGES FOR THE
BETTER. We are
proud to be a bank in
a community with
Eagan's dynamic
growth and prosper-
ity. Thanks to hun-
dreds. of customers.
We continue to
achieve record
growth and look for-
ward to Eagan's
promising future.
February, 1984
EAGAN MAYOR Bea Blomquist is present for the ribbon
cutting and grand opening of the new Norwest Bank,
located at Pilot Knob and Yankee Doodle roads.
Norwest Bank Old St. Anthony, N.A.
Pilot Knob at Yankee Doodle Road
Eagan, Minnesota 55121
452-8470
Member FDIC
Q
.•A ER
11,11
11111
NORWEST BANKS
NIB '—
Eagan Chronicle Progress Edition — Week of September 30, 1985 — Page 11
AWARE GOLD.
THE HEALTH CARE
PLAN THAT
LETS YOU CALL
THE SHOTS.
When it comes to taking care of
your health or your child's health,
nothing is more important. You want
to make your own decisions. About
doctors. About specialists. About
hospitals.
Now you can. With AWARE Gold.
The only health care plan that keeps
you in complete control of your health
care decisions. When you need it
most. AWARE Gold. 100% coverage
that lets you call the shots.
Call our toll free number,
1-800-382-2000 or (612) 456-5050 for
more information.
Blue Cross and
Blue Shield
d M Y esota
L-4;;;A
*zoo,
QMr. Donut
m i Suer
Doruutt-
3808 Highway 13
Hwy. 13 & Silver Bell Road
Eagan
454-4382
2 FREE
DONUTS
with
purchase
of
one
dozen
(Special applies to purchases of
1 or 2 dozen.)
(Fancies not included)
Eagan Chamber celebrates
first anniversary
Dakota County Chambers of Commerce
dc
by Amy O'Marro
Eagan has always had a chamber of
commerce...hasn't it?
Although it may seem so, Eagan's
Chamber of Commerce will celebrate
its first anniversary Oct. 1.
It seems as if the Chamber has been
around a lot longer. And that's because
it is a division of the Dakota County
Chamber of Commerce which has
worked for progress in Eagan for quite
some time, says C. William Escher, ex-
ecutive director.
The Dakota County Chamber of Com-
merce serves as an umbrella for the
separate chambers of Eagan. Mendota
Heights, West St. Paul, Lilydale and
Mendota. "As part of an umbrella
chamber. all the members of the Eagan
Chamber can participate in activities
of the Dakota Chamber that are held in
other cities," Escher said. Monthly
meetings are on the fourth Tuesday of
each month.
The Dakota Chamber began when "a
small number of business leaders came
together and formed the North Dakota
County Chamber of Commerce. The
name was then changed and city
chamber identities were created. The
creation of city chambers allowed them
to tackle local issues. such as economic
development.
"Separate decisions could be made.
For example, West St. Paul is an older
community where there is no room for
development. Eagan is a growing area.
Mendota Hieghts is a combination of
the two. There are different issues in
each of those cities and the local
chambers address those issues,"
Escher said.
The Eagan Chamber is involved in
business, Escher said. The Chamber
has three prime areas of interest:
public transportation, a 24-hour
emergency medical facility and attrac-
ting new businesses to the community.
"The Chamber is in business develop-
ment and acts as a leader to attract
new businesses. The Chamber also
looks at legislative issues. It lets city,
county, state and federal legislators
know how businesses feel about their
decisions. The Chamber promotes the
city," Escher said.
EAGAN
LIQUORS
Pilot Knob & Co. Rd. 30 (Diffley)
454-3346
SPECIALIZING • ALL WINES
IN: Domestic — Imported
• CASE DISCOUNTS
Liquor, Wine
Import — Domestic
• SPECIAL ORDERS
CATERING
TO:
• Weddings, Company
Parties, Anniversary
& Other Celebrations
• Bartending Services
Available
Privately Owned and Operated
Friendly Personalized Service
$HOP AND $AVE!
1
Par.e 12 — Eagan Chronicle Progress Edition — Week of September 30, 1985
Who's who
People living in Eagan are actively in-
volved in the decisions affecting theirci-
ty.
Elected officials, volunteer citizen
members of advisory commission and
committees, and staff members all
work together for the benefit of the city.
Residents serve as members of both
permanent and temporary advisory
groups. The knowledge and activity of
the resident members allows city of-
ficials and staff to be constantly aware
of the opinions of Eagan residents.
Advisory committees have assisted
the city in planning the new
MunicipalCenter referendum. the parks
bond referendum and the city's
historical committee compiled a history
book about Eagan.
The City Celebration Committee plan-
ned and presented Eagan's 125th birth-
day. Members are Chair Larry Wenzel,
Bob Teichel, Bruce Harries, the Rev.
Loren Nelson, Richard Bertz, Mary
Voracek, John McElligott, Rod Smith,
Sandra Masin, Don Klober, Carol
Bergh, Brad Benzick, Jim linker, Ted
Wachter, David Keller.
The Airport Noise Committee, which
studies and presents proposed solutions
to the problem of excess noise from air-
craft, includes Chair Tom Baker, Bob
Swenson. Bart Schmidt, Joe Harrison.
John Gustin, Don Goblin and Carol
Dozoiz.
Permanent advisory groups include
the Advisory Planning Commission, the
Advisory Parks and Recommendation
Commission, representatives to the
Joint Burnsville/Eagan Cable Com-
munications Commission, the
Economic Development Commission,
and the Special Assessment Commis-
sion.
The Advisory Planning Commission
meets monthly to review city develop-
ment plans and makes recommenda-
tions to the City Council. Members in-
clude Chair Charles Hall, Pamela Mc-
Crea, Joseph Harrison, Garrett
Mulrooney, Doris Wilkins, David
Bohne. Michael Wold and Lori Trygg.
The Advisory Parks and Recreation
Commission meets twice monthly to
develop recommendations to the City
Council regarding park dedication by
developers, purchase of additional park
land, development of existing park land
and recreational programs. Members
are Chair Rodger Martin, Carolyn
Thurston, Richard Carroll, Tom Ket-
cham, George Kubik, Mike Fedde, San-
dra Masin, Joanne Alt, Sandy Bertz and
Anthony Caponi.
Five representatives to the Joint
Burnsville/Eagan Cable Communica-
tions Commission, which oversees the
administration of the cable television
system for both communities, are
Ronald Jensen, Ronald Voracek,
Richard Bertz, Robert Cooper and
Lloyd Krob.
The Economic Development Com-
mission promotes new development in
Eagan and studies the needs of
businesses already established here.
Larry Wenzel is chairman. Commission
members include Mark Parranto,
Robert Lee, Larry Kraning, R.E.
Stevenson, John McCall and David
Kleimola.
The Special Assessment Committee
makes recommendations to the City
Council regarding specific appeals to
special assessment levies. Members
are William Rydrych, Garrett
Mulrooney, Dale Vogt and Don Knight.
All Eagan residents can serve on
these advisory groups. Appointments to
the permanent commissions and com-
mittees are made annually at the second
regular City Council meeting in
January.
Other appointments are made
throughout the year when vacancies oc-
cur. Local newspapers print an-
nouncements about openings on the
committees.
Any resident desiring an appointment
should write a letter of interest to City
Administrator Tom Hedges mentioning
which advisory group is of interest. Let-
ters should be addressed to Eagan City
Hall. P.O. Box 21-199, Eagan, 55121.
TAlet%ffeeSsa44,-.
We're here to serve your
real estate needs.
452-0250
A IEaMSER OF THE
SEARS wuwcuZ IETwo1Ic 1
COLDWCLL
BAN Ken ❑
t IAL E$T*TI
Pilot Knob & Diffley Road, Eagan, MN 55122
2a1a ?Xeat4 Seaj4dd
RETAIL• HOME FREEZER SPECIALISTS
"ALL BEEF AGED TO PERFECTION"
Mom of The Famous Saxon Steak)
• BLta le wteaA, IlT Ma
11arra n 1t1• lLsltit
• frl1B ;Malt FI�1
RHEUM MU
MKS • PINE n•sty-
uesla-RIII•MN• tJ-111.t •
a ■w[
S1/NIC'S
SEE US FOR ALL YOUR
SPECIAL ENTERTAINMENT
NEEDS: WEDDINGS.
GRADUATION. PARTIES, ETC.
(TANKEE SQ. SNOPMNG CENTER)
MS YANKEE 00001.1 RD EAGAN
452-8660
MEATS -SEAFOOD
.a. ... ,,, ........... v.-.,. •
WENZEL
MECHANICAL
& HILITE
ELECTRIC
3600 Kennebec Drive
Eagan, Minnesota 55122
Years of Continuous
Service In the Eagan Area
• PLUMBING
. HEATING
• ELECTRICAL
• SHEET METAL
• VENTILATING
• AIR CONDITIONING
• SEWER AND WATER
Eagan Chronicle Progress Edition — Week of September 30. 1985 — Page 13
Itr
The beauty is being preserved as the city continues to develop.
For news and advertising
close to home...
C£AGAN
HRON/CL E
Hi w —
Glance back at Eagan's stories
,am,
890-4456
1209 East Cliff Road
Burnsville
Eagan's
beauty
saved in
its parks
PARKS: from p.6A
Goat Hill, located on the west side of
Lexington Road, may have lighting for
its two hockey rinks this winter. "We're
optimistic that the rinks will be ready
for use this winter. The City Council ap-
proved the contract for lighting and the
department will set up a temporary
warming house so there may be skating
there this year," Vraa said.
Ice skates may clip across a rink in
the RidgeCliff neighborhood park this
winter too, Vraa said. "Lighting should
be added to Ridgecliff this fall_ We are
bidding right now on resurfacing the
lots in Ridgecliff and Rahn parks. Soft-
ball and baseball fields should be ready
in '87, if there is a dry summer so we
can grow grass," he said.
Schwarz -Weber, architectural firm,
is busy designing a shelter for the
Trapp Farm park_ Vraa hopes to start
construction this spring. "Hopefully it
will be usable and we will have a picnic
park this time next year," he said.
The trails running through Eagan's
countryside will be expanded. "Right
now the Cliff Road trail ends at Johnny
Cake Road. The capital improvement
program proposes to continue the trail
out to Highway 3," Vraa said. Plans for
the trails could be complete by 1989, he
added.
"This year the department will have
put $1 million into parks im-
provements. I expect it will be close to
that next year," he said.
Photo by AmyO'Marro
TM
One of the Most Efficient
Gas Furnaces in the World
FREDRICKSON
HEATING & AIR
CONDITIONING
4030 BEAU D'RUE DR., EAGAN 452-2775
Serving Eagan
ADVENTURE WORLD over 10 years.
TRAVEL Certified Travel Counselors
COMPLETE BUSINESS & VACATION SERVICE
6 Experienced counselors providing
personal, professional attention.
Sue Vartmann and Joan Deer, Owners
Adventure World Travel
MO
Paga 14 — Eagan Chronicle Progress Edition — Week of September 30 1985
Cedarvale Mall - Hwy. 13 & Cedar Ave.
4545227
EAGAN DIRECTOR Y
Support the businesses
that support Eagan's growth.
• Home Services
•
Interior & Exterior Painting
OM'S PAINTING
SERVICE
Phone (61 2) 452-1 787
1362 E Balsam
Eagan. MN 55123
•
apse
f
(a Nair dolor)
KATHLEEN SCHWANZ, Stylt•t
4283 Stirrup Strati
464-7837
Eagan, MN
• Auto Care
Cedarvale Auto
Sales & Service
AUTO BODY REPAIR
TUNE-UPS & COMPLETE AUTO REPAIR
454-1120 or 454-1121
•Cedar Cliff Health Care
Cedar Cliff Chiropractic Center
(6121454.9Qt1
aDeasexe x
DR DIANNE G KROGAN D (
•
2127 CUFF Ro SuITE E
EAGAN. MN 55122
CEDAR CLIFF CHIROPRACTIC CENTER •
i6! 21 454-90, 1
ems. 91e9alf P. ?Vaal
00CTOrI OF CHI,IOVIIACTiC
2127 CLIFF Ro. - SUlra E
EAGAN. MN 55122
• Restaurant
w
100.-011
IMtster
Donut
Fresh Baked
Daily
3800 Sibley Memorial Hwy.
(Highway 13)
454-4382
•Childcare
* ■ - • • 4 .
a - a • a
4
•
0 • • .+
• _ a
•
a L
LA PEPINIERE
MONTESSORI
DAY CARE C91ff91S
Infants, Toddlers, Preschool & Elementary
from ages 6 weeks to 12 years
Reasonable Rates • Flexible Schedule
6AM-8➢M - 12 month program. Full day • Had Day •
2-3-5 Days • Weal( Hot lunches available. Exerting
programs for children before and after schOOt.
hotrdaya and dunng summer month
452-3277
For excellence in Montessori -
be sure it's La Pepiniere.
• •
1 �
• Business Specialists
adiLhfloof
Jeane Thorne Temporary
Services, Inc.
227-9566 484-2773 454-9171
St Paul Arden Hills Eagan
HIGHLIGHT DENTAL CENTER
COLLIN R. HATCHER. I).D.S.
Prrrrrrhre Furrtrly f)rrrhxtry
►burs Mon. Tuts. Thur•. 4 03.7 00
Wed a Fri 9.06500 Sal 9.0O 1 00
2127 CLIFF ROAD. SUITE: I). • EAGAN. MN 7I5122
(612) 4.54.9(r4
Cedar Cliff Chiropractic Center
!a12I454-Do11
Logan Chroniue Progress Edition — Week of Sciptnrnber 3c, 1985
1
I
1
T O W N C E N T R E♦ E A G A N
TOWN
CENTUE
Tt u' 1k' knot+ ‘0,011,kcivic,, helping
111 Ike I..Iti;.11►lilt' It% ill I. IIWs. I110s1 dt'sirabic
hu.int•., lot .nion.lint n Centre Lapin.
Ai ,k re, tle,igi IeYI Ior prop:"... On the
.,t,1.1L1,t.11,1 I t•\I1I•I;It+n .\tenor . It .I
t.11ie1t oI Ita,uions planned ha high teat
enkklpri.t'. ,1.a nlhlt. ,tor.Ltr.shoo, room
and t I Itt hu.nlr>x..
10,,114..1 I iet% ClIk tot\el, the talk'.1
building in 1).tkol,' Count, 1. pit !tired in the
rod low. 0,,e110 4.►r1Q the pond ill the
tearer of the illtr,u.11ion. It IN tunrntl►
Ie.t,111t Jltiu'.1\lu'. l'1111t'I t•\tt'Ile11l
,gilti6ut,.11C.tho `+Lnnlyd or under
t,m,ullt Ilt+r1
:+l111.1It'tl I+t'trttr n 17ennl.n k and I'tk't
Itn,+h rt\ItI..Iht• initial phase of a 11kMt than
ikk).LXItl apt.ue foot tet.ul .homing tenter
uIll II('It'.hl% 101 04.t1111.111t) in I08t+..\lkl
n1JIr ler,ul t•1, III! lt, trill „\+It tolknt.
Convenient to everywhere.
1.'tt 11 t t'I111e I .q.t.in I, tt+111'etllt'nilV
t I,`,t' IJ et el t 1111I1g hth111t• s. IhYYI. tt>' 11111t'e.
u►tIIk1IIIt dtntn[ottn ILnnr,q+t�lis
Intl SI. P.M'. htn .nt.n hone 1.10% tarn
tarn e,ll,tlt. 11.1111t 1.Int,.Intl e\1+enx'.
11110,t.ue ±;I. t.tkr, tMI 11110 tit. I',ntl
Illllunule, te,1.1r Venueol rntti.i ile V
to \1III11e.gkd1, 111 1,ntthh tlk'..une nnk•.
\nt1 �Y [tui, 1,+the 11lntk',IIkdi..tntl
tit laud Intrin.uion.11 .\nlvrt i..1n OVII
,ht'tlrl %rate
The center of a growing market.
I..4.1,tu, I,q+idh e\I+.uldiIIt J)t�puLnit+n
1+10t Itlt'..111 t'\tellerll market lot wo4l.
,ttttl .t'I\ ate.. ,1, to II.1..ut .lhuntl.ulte of
tlll.tlllied rinplt'tY'. tt11 am, htiUlle... l of
more Erifol111,111tt11 ,►1\1111 I,nt11 t et11lt 1,1,t;.111,
t.111tt,l'1•1 !.i,tl
.r
'
:Another quality development h\ Federal land Company.
FRAY
OCTOBER 18, 1985
Stroh Brewery
toasts anniversary
BUSINESS/7B
Set
figiv
Yummies give kids
all the right stuff
EXTRA/1 D
PIoNEER 1!k4ESS
DISPAECH
25C
AL
? AFTC Fii.AL
Autumn quietude
orian Petersoni 01E111 Photoflrapher
Lone Oak Lutleran Church of Eagan, bathed in autumn splendor, stands as a sentinel
atop a hill overlooking Minnesota 55. The century -old oak tree from which the church
took its name was removed last year as a traffic hazard, leaving a younger tree as the
church's solitary companion.
d
s
I
Eagan considers � iemi
paratransit system
By JUDY STRACHAN
Staff Writer
EAGAN - The city council ap-
proved a resolution to study the
feasibility of a paratransit
system to serve the city of
Eagan, as well as the cities of Ap-
ple Valley. Burnsville, Lakeville.
Rosemount, and Savage.
A special study committee,
made up of appointed citizens
from all six communities has met
several times, has decided that
further development of a
paratransit system should be
studied in detail through the com-
pletion of a market analysis and
feasibility study funded by the
U.S. Urban Mass Transportation
Administration i UMTA I.
According to Bill Stone, chair-
man of the study committee, UM -
TA would fund the study. which
could cost about $100.000, to see if
it would be feasible to install a
paratransit program in a low
density developing area.
The council approved the
resolution to ask for the grant
money to study the feasibility of
the program. but had serious
questions concerning the cost of
the study. "It's not free money,"
said Tom Egan, council member.
"1 think we're going at this
backward. Usually there is a
• need, then there is a study to find
a way to fill that need. Here we
have a word -- paratransit -- and
we're trying to find a need for it
to fill."
The council asked that City Ad-
ministrator Tom Hedges also in-
clude a letter with the resolution
that would clarify the city's feel-
ings about the system and its
direction.
In other action, the council:
ADMINISTERED the oath of
office to Gene VanOverbeke as ci-
ty clerk -treasurer.
APPROVED the authorization
for the director of parks. and
recreation to proceed with the
advertisement for bids for park
equipment.
APPROVED the re -naming of
the parks advisory committee to
the park and recreation advisory
committee, in keeping with their
function.
APPROVED site plan
priorities for MTC shelter sta-
tions.
APPROVED all consent items.
APPROVED a preliminary
resolution for an industrial
revenue note for E.L. Murphy
Trucking Company in the amount
of $2 million.
APPROVED an industrial
revenue note for J.P.K. Park
Company in the amount of $2.8
million for construction of a
67.000 square foot shopping
center at the intersection of Co.
Rd. 30 and Nichols Rd.
APPROVED two conditional
use permits for McDonald's Cor-
poration at Mari Acres at Cliff
Rd. and Nichols Rd.
APPROVED maxi audits for
the city's public buildings. in-
cluding identification of projects
that would make the buildings
more energy efficient and cost ef-
fective.
CONTINUED the Ches Mar
Fourth Addition final plat until
the Jan. 20 meeting.
CONTINUED the grading/ex-
cavation permit application for
Hillandale First Addition.
CONTINUED the 1981 sewer/
water rate study update until the
Jan. 20 meeting.
APPROVED setting a public
hearing for Feb. 3 to consider
zoning map changes.
APPROVED taking up to 10
new scattered -home sites as call-
ed for in the housing plan for low
and moderate income housing,
and carrying over 25 units of sec-
tion 8 new construction with the
balance spread over the next
three years to provide housing
assistance under the Dakota
County HRA.
APPROVED amusement
device license applications and
amended the ordinance to extend
the closing time from 10 p.m. to 1
a.m. where there are licensed in-
toxicants.
APPROVED a letter from
Hedges and City Attorney Paul
Hauge to all state legislators con-
cerning the city's concerns with
the Metropolitan Council amend-
ment process for the comprehen-
sive land use guide plan.
APPROVED setting a joint
council and planning commission
meeting Jan, 13. The council will
meet with the fire fighters at 8
p.m. and with the planning com-
mission at 7 p.m.
SET Jan. 20 as the city
organizational meeting.
DISCUSSED a community -
economic development commit;
tee to promote the city.
Three Eagan
fire fighters
commended
EAGAN •- Mayor Bea Blom-
quist and the members of the city
council commended three Eagan
fire fighters and a citizen of the
city for their bravery during a
Christmas Eve fire at Eagan
Green aparments.
Steve Olson. a resident of the
building, was commended and
given certificates from the
mayor and from Fire Chief
Robert Childers. Olson had
entered the burning apartment to
rescue two children. At the time.
he was not aware that there was
another child in the apartment.
Fire Lighters Mark Adam, Dan
Klingbeil and Maynard Kiang
were also given certificates by
the mayor and the fire chief for
their bravery in saving the third
child.
We would like to commend the
bravery of our citizens and fire
fighters." said Btomquist. "It's
heartwarming to know that we
have people who are willing to
assist in time of need."
r
Airline's plans taking off
NORTHWEST ORIENT Airlines held a groundbreak-
ing ceremony May 21 for the company's new corporate
world headquarters. The building will be located on a
150-acre parcel of land east of Dodd Road and north
of Lone Oak Road. Pictured above, from left: architect
William Fay, vice president and secretary of Thorsen
& Thorshov Associates. Inc.; architect Willard
Thorsen. president of Thorsen & Thorshov
Photo by Christy DeJoy
Associates. Inc.; developer Larry Laukka; James Ab-
bott. executive vice president of finance administra-
tion of Northwest Orient Airlines; Mayor Bea Biom-
quist: Steven Rothmeier, president and chief ex-
ecutive officer of Northwest Orient: Councilman Ted
Wachter; City Administrator Tom Hedges and
developer Warren Beck. For more photos, see page
4A
EAGAN
Your
Community
Newspaper
\ a WA
opinion
Foot notes
BHS semester
format to provide
'the write stuff'
By Dr. Theodore Foot,
Superintendent of
District 191 Schools
Under the new semester for-
mat at Burnsville High School,
sophomores will be required to
take a course in writing/composi-
tion. Since their writing skills will
vary, composition courses will be
offered at three different levels:
"Basic Writing Skills" for
studerds with low skills; "Com-
position" for students with
average/above average skills;
and "Honors Composition" for
students with above average/
high skills.
In their junior and senior
years, students will receive con-
tinued irntruction and practice in
writing/composition as part of
the literature and oral com-
munication cxxrises.
The most effective way to
develop writing skills is through
using these skills. One of the dis-
advantages of the trimester for-
mat was that most students took
the required writing course in
their sophomore year. 1f they
took a second course, it was most
their senior year. In
tion, sophomore writing courses
will mass the instruction and
practice of new skills: continued
practice and additional instruc-
tion will be distributed over four
semesters of literature courses.
Relating their writing to liter-
ature will bring more meaning to
students' writing experiences. It
will give more direction to their
writing and will provide more op-
portunities to develop thinking
skills. One of the problems with
the present system has been that
students have difficulty making
the transfer from writing lass to
writing for any other purpose. By
relating what students write to
what they read, the language arts
teachers stand a better chance of
bringing about that transfer.
One can learn writing skills
from models of good writing.
Many students do not write well.
probably in part because they
read very little, especially very
little good literature. With record
and video libraries replacing
book libraries, reading for enjoy-
ment is a dying pasttime. By tak-
ing four semester credits in liter-
ature, students will have greater
exposure to good writing and will
letters
Be of service - give to CAC
To the editor:
The beautiful homes of our
area, the well -kept lawns, the ex-
cellent schools and the efficient
municipal services all testify to a
very sufficient community- of in-
dustrious citizens. With this im-
age as background. I was surpris-
ed when 1 learned of the tremen-
dous and varied requests for
human services made of the
Community Action Council.
CAC provides a variety of
assistance for residents of
Dakota County. serving as a safe-
ty net for those between trauma
and a more permanent solution to
their problems.
For example. in 1984 CAC's
Help Line received 18,935 calls
for assistance. The Food Pantry
gave free food to more than 4,00u
people and the Clothes Closet pro-
vided free clothing to 419 children
and 356 adults. The staff reports
that there is a constant need for
children's clothing.
The B. Robert Lewis House for
battered women and children
housed 222 children and 180
women. Another 531 women and
children were not able to stay for
a lack of space. There are an ad-
ditional dozen programs that of-
fer help of equal importance.
Possibly the program most well
known is Armful of Love, which
provided toys, gifts. food and
clothing at Christmas to I.335
critical.
We have all had troubles to
some degree. Divorce. death. Toss
of a job. serious illness or drug or
alcohol problems can quickly
create a marginal situation.
1 invite each of us to consider
being of service by becoming a
member of CAC. Being a con•
Social work
ethics questioned
To the editor:
I wish Dakota County social
workers and child protection peo-
ple would have had the opportuni-
ty to hear the social worker who
gave a short talk to a group of
listeners recently.
This social worker and former
child protection worker is now in
her 70s. She started out by say-
ing:
"I do not understand whatever
happened to the honorable pro-
fession of social work. They have
lost their credibility. Years ago i
was proud to be a social worker;
now i am ashamed to say i am a
social worker.
"i desired to go into this field
when I was a very young girl My
main reasons were to help Tamil•
i Aiv era i ri_ co -
interline nwrnher is more than a
geslure. 11 is an appropriate ac-
tion that truly represents who we
are - a community ul human Ix•
ings who are able and willing 10
make a difference.
LARRI' Bt1CKLIN
Burnsville
Social workers
need services, too
To the editor:
AFSCME Local 306. represent-
ing clerical, technical, and pro-
fessional workers in Dakota
County Human Services has been
on strike since May 2. County ad-
ministrators report that human
services are being "adequately
delivered" through use of super-
visors, employers from other
departments. and hired tempor-
aries who are crossing picket
lines. The county administrator,
Fred Joy, returns to Minnetonka
each day; the personnel director
drives home to Wisconsin; the
coordinator of mental retarda-
lion services hangs his hat in Si.
Paul. as does the administrative
assistant for adults services.
And. the hired attorney Frank
Madden coll - - his
DAKOTA COUNTY TRIBUNE
JANUARY 8,1981
DAKOTA COUNTY TRIBUNE
VanOverbeke sworn in as
Eagan clerk -treasurer
By JUDY STRACHAN
Staff Writer
EAGAN Eugene
VanOverbeke, 34, took over as
clerk -treasurer of the city of
Eagan Tuesday. Jan. 5.
VanOverbeke was sworn in at the
city council meeting by Mayor
Bea Blomquist.
VanOverbeke has been the
finance director for the city since
Sept. 1, 1979. He has a degree in
mathematics from Moorhead
State University. a degree in ac•
counting from Mankato State
University, and a Master of
business administration from the
College of St. Thomas. Prior to
coming to Eagan, VanOverbeke
was the assistant finance director
for the city of Brooklyn Park.
Born and raised near Marshall.
VanOverbeke and his wife Joann
have two sons, Jeff, age 212, and
Jason, age 4 months. They moved
to the Evergreen Park area of
Eagan last February.
VanOverbeke's position as
finance director will be combined
with that of clerk -treasurer. He
takes over from retiring clerk -
treasurer. Alyce Bolke.
According to VanOverbeke, the
position of city clerk entails
directing the elections. city
record keeping. filing all resolu-
tions, city documents. and legal
notices. The position of Treasurer
includes recording receipts, pay-
ment of hills, investments of idle
cash. projecting cash flows Ior
the city.. scheduling bond sales.
and borrowing lunds for the city.
The lmance director position in-
'ludt•s accounting and reporting
II linancial transactions (ur the
•ity. budgeting. operating
statements, and compiling the
annual linanrial reports for the
city
-14 t• are in I he process of
changing tht• city s accounting
satCnl right too" said
Vanlh'erbeki•. anti the 1111t1 city
udget ns nt 11s Imal stages lot
GENE VAN OVERIEKE, finance director for the city of
Eagan, has combined that position with that of clerk -
treasurer for the city, replacing Alyce Bolke who retired the
first of the year after 21 years as the ckrlt-treasurer of
Eagan. VanOverbeke has been with the city since
September of 1979, and was sworn in to his new office of
the city council meeting Tuesday, Jan. 6.
presentation to the council...
According to VanOverbeke, the
city of Eagan "is a multimillion
dollar operation, there's no doubt
about that.- Over $7 million pass-
SECTION B
ed through the city this year. and
over =I million has been spent on
public improvement bonds in the
last three years.
. • iitiLlVtNG
JANUARY 8, 1981
OLSON--Girl born to Timothy
nd Christine Olson, Lonsdale,
Kathryn Crandall, Judy Melzer,
Baby Girl Beckwith, ( transferred
Classes for
HERS schedules
)ec. 23, 1980 at Northfield City
iospital.
to St. Paul Children's), Julianne
Martin, Eunice Beckwith, Jason
preschoolers
workshop on
REUL—Girl born to George and
I.athleen Reul, Northfield, Dec.
Cauchy, Lisa Christoph, Valery
Raway and baby, John Amberg,
scheduled
depression
1980 at Northfield City
ospital.
David Ratzlaff, Michael Pflaum,
Margaret McDonough, Sherry
APPLE VA1J,F.Y -- The parks
and recreation department ,s
BURNSVILLE -- A "Chasini
the Blues Away" workshop wil
illuRlGlN_Rrm. Iv..•.. fr• ieffo.-..
Ira -_:.-1. [`_.,.7_ 111.,�..---Al n-...1
i..- .-.-I 4 ...... 1 .• -.. fn nMr
d Phyllis Johnson, No
c. 28, 1980 at Northfi.
►spital .
• • •• 1
WIESE - MILLER
Mr. and Mrs. Darrell Wiese of
Route 2, Northfield, announce the
engagement of their daughter,
Karla Wiese. to Ward Miller, son
of Mr. and Mrs. Myron Miller of
Waterville.
Wiese, a graduate of Northfield
High School and Augsburg Col-
lege. Minneapolis, teaches music
at Minnetonka East Junior High
School. Miller, a graduate of
Waterville -Elysian High School.
is a senior at Augsburg.
A May 9 wedding is planned.
SITYDER-SCHLOSSER
Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Snyder of
Farmington announce the
engagement of their daughter,
Lisa, to Bruce Schlosser, son of
Mr. and Mrs. Donald Schlosser of
Hastings.
Snyder is a 1977 graduate of
Farmington High School and at-
tended Inver Bills Community
College. She is employed by The
Gillette Company in St. Paul.
Schlosser is a 1977 graduate of
Hastings High School and attend-
ed Red Wing Vocational School.
He is employed as a boilermaker.
An April 25 wedding is planned.
IIEMI ENRECIf.GILRERTSON
SANE ORD MEMORIAL
HOSPITAL, FARMINGTON
KIIHBAUCH-Boy born to Pete
and Ruth Kiihbauch, Hastings,
Dec- 17, 1980, at Sanford
Memorial Hospital.
WIGER-Boy born to Willis and
Aria Wiger, Apple Valley, Dec.
47, 1980 at Sanford Memorial
Efospi to I.
BURLINGAME-Boy born to
Bert and Kelly Burlingame,
Shakopee, Dec. 17, 1980 at San-
ford Memorial Hospital.
HAYDON-Girl born to Laurie
Haydon, Lakeville, Dec. 18, 1980,
at Sanford Memorial Hospital.
KALLEVIG-Girl born to Percy
and Debra Kallevig, Edina, Dec.
19. 1980 at Sanford Memorial
Hospital -
NELSON -Girl born to Karen
Nelson, Rosemount, Dec- 21, 1980
at Sanford Memorial Hospital.
KIRCHNER--Girl born to
Galen and Elizabeth Kirchner,
Hampton, Dec- 23. 1980 at San-
ford Memorial Hospital.
RINGLUND--Girl born to Ed-
ward and Alfreda Ringlund, Far-
mington, Dec. 23, 1980 at Sanford
Memorial Hospital.
WILLIAMS--Boy born to
Ronald and Darlene Williams,
Apple Valley, Dec. 23, 1980 at
Sanford Memorial Hospital.
KAMEN—Boy born to Jerome
and Michelle Kamen, Farm-
ington, Dec. 24, 1980 at Sanford
Memorial Hospital.
MICKELSON--Boy born to
Ronald and LeAnn Mickelson,
Farmington, Dec. 24, 1980 at San-
ford Memorial Hospital-
RAWAY--Boy born to David
and Valery Raway, Rosemount,
Dec. 30, 1980 at Sanford Memorial
Hospital.
BECKWITH--Girl born to
Marlin and Eunice Beckwith,
Farmington. Dec. 30, 1980 at San-
ford Memorial Hospital.
BIRD --Boy born to Michael and
Jennifer Bird, Farmington, Dec.
31, 1980 at Sanford Memorial
Hospital.
HENWOOD--Girl born to
Thomas and Sandy Henwood,
Farmington, Dec. 31, 1980 at San-
Mot her
Id., by
eh
handle it, to let us know Well.'
said Polzin, -'we didn't hear
anything for 21 years."
In 1961. Eagan was a rural
township and the only major pav
ed road was Hwy. 13. then called
the St, Paul to Shakopee road
The clerk position was part-time.
and Bolke kept most of the papers
and records for the township in
her kitchen. In 1965 she was
elected to the full-time position as
township clerk. In 1972 she was
appointed town clerk. as Eagan
graduated from township status
to that of a town. In 1974 she was
again re -appointed city clerk, as
Eagan had changed status from a
town to a city.
Bolke received many words of
praise from those in attendance.
as her career was traced from
her front porch to city hall. Com-
ments were directed to Bolke in
the form of a public hearing. a
format very familiar to the city
clerk, with Tom Hedges. city ad-
ministrator. and Martin
DesLauriers, chief of police. ser-
ving as moderators.
An accountant who audits the
city's books noted. "Alyce work-
ed shoulder to shoulder with lots
of guys long before women's
liberation. Liberation was not for
Alyce, she was way ahead of it.
She always has a smile, and is
friendly, hard-working, op-
timistic, and she is the key to the
success of the city of Eagan."
Russ Hedley, a representative
of Univac, noted that his com-
pany also began its relationship
with the city of Eagan on Alyce's
front porch. "We needed a rezon-
ing 15 years ago," said Hedley.
"And I met with Alyce over a cup
of coffee in her kitchen to fill out
the forms."
Univac gave their "Community
Service Award" to Bolke. •This
award," said Hedley. "is usually
reserved for special employees.
Eagan residen s honor Alyce Bolke
By JI'D\' STRACHAN
Staff Writer
EAGAN -- The city conducted
most - of its business from her
front porch for many years: and
to show their gratitude for her
friendliness. dedicated service.
endurance, patience. efficiency.
and welcome smile. a recognition
dinner was held in her honor Jan
22 at the Lost Spur Country Club
The recipient of the accolades
from the city residents was Alyce
Bolke. the retiring city clerk.
Bolke had worked for the city for
21 years. and retired Dec. 31, 1980
"to spend some time with my
husband, children, grand-
children. and do some traveling,"
said Bolke.
Over 140 people of Eagan at-
tended the recognition dinner. in-
cluding her family members.
neighbors. friends. members of
the business community. city
staff members, and present and
former township board. town
board, and city elected officials.
Herb Polzin. the first mayor of
the city of Eagan, said he felt
somewhat responsible for getting
Alyce into all this. When I was
the treasurer for the township
board, we had hired a clerk by
the name of Fisher, but he
wanted a secretary. I went to Art
Rahn. the township board chair-
man, and we didn't know where
we were going to find a secretary.
"But I remembered that the
assessor an my mail route had
said that Mrs. Bolke had redone
all his papers to be filed with the
county. So we thought we would
offer this woman a job. She took
it," said Polzin. "and two months
later, Fisher quit. Art and I went
to ask Alyce if she would be the
clerk. As I remember." said
Polzin. "she didn't know if she
wanted to do it. but we told her to
take the job and if she couldn't
to
AFTER 21 years of swing Eagan, the city honored Alyce
Bolke for her dedication, hard work, efficiency, and cons-
tant smile. Many current and former township, and city of-
ficials attended the recognition dinner and mock public
hearing for Bolke's retirement, Included here ore the cur-
rent city council members and mayor, as well as the two
former mayors Bolke served with, and former township
en members- From left ore: Mork Porronto, city
council member; Jim Smith, city council member; Bill
ALYCf BOLKE, the retiring clerk for the city of Eagan,
displays the plaque presented to her from the city of Eagan
by Mayor Bea Blomquist. Bolke retired Dec. 31, 1980, after
21 years of service to the city.
We've only given it to two other
non -employees of Univac: to
Hubert H. Humphrey. for obvious
reasons, and to a police officer
who saved the life of an
employee. Tonight," said Hedley,
"we would like to present this
award to dedication to excellence
for the city. its residents, and its
corporate residents."
Ed Kurth, clerk -treasurer of
Inver Grove Heights, noted that
"all the clerks in the area are go-
ing to miss Alyce. She really took
care of Eagan."
Following many other ac-
colades, Mayor Bea Blomquist
presented Bolke with a plaque, a
check, and a key to the city. Said
Bolke, "this is both a sad and a
happy evening. Eagan is a
special place and I love it very
much. I've enjoyed the people of
Eagan. especially those who
work for this city. They are very
special, dedicated people. Eagan
is my home and I love it."
The standing ovations she
received were a sincere "Thank
you. Alyce Bolke, for a job well
done."
Rydrych, former city council member; Bea Blomquist,
mayor; Paul Uselmann, former township board member;
Alyce Bolke, clerk; Art Rahn, former chairman of the
township board; Leo Murphy, former mayor; Herb Polzin,
former moyor; Tom Egan, city council member; and Ted
Wachter, city council member. Not pictured but present at
OW dinner prior to the pictures, was John Klein, former
chairman of the township and board member.
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set bake sale
EAGAN -- The Eagan Lioness
Club is having a bake sale Satur-
day. Feb. 14, beginning at 10 a.m.
in Cedarvale Mall. Proceeds will
aid in the purchase of hearing
dogs.
The club recently donated $50
to the American Cancer Society
and Christmas gifts were given to
the B. Robert Lewis Home of
Eagan. The women will be aiding
at the bloodmobile stop Feb. 24 at
St. John Neumann Church.
Calico flowers
class Feb. 5
INVER GROVE HEIGHTS -- A
class on calico flowers will be
from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 5
at the junior high school, 8167
Cahill Ave. E., room D-303.
Participants are asked to bring
scrap material, a scissors and
glue. Cost is $2 plus nominal
charge for materials. payable
that evening.
To register, call community
services, sponsor. at 457-7240.
ng or Summer
Wedding?
Plan ahead
at very special day.
plete Wedding
ographic Services
agement Portraits
to Invitations
dding Candids
dal Albums
rents Albums
amily Portraits
nlorgements
, or anytime on weekends.
OTOqRAPtIy
Two area women are on the
committee for the Junior Divi-
sion of Women's Association of
the Minnesota Orchestra mid-
winter valentine ball Saturday,
Feb. 14, benefitting the Min-
nesota Orchestra. They are
Joanne LeJeune of Burnsville
and Mary Teske of Eagan.
AFS student to speak
at women's club
APPLE VALLEY --Laurent
Cremaschi, Apple Valley High
School's AFS student from
France will be the featured
speaker at the Apple Valley
Women's Club monthly meeting
Feb. 2.
The meeting begins at 7:30
p.m. at the Apple Valley Pool and
Racquet Club. Laurent plans to
show slides of life in France as
well as sing and play his guitar.
Anyone interested in the
organization who would like to at-
tend should call Sue McCall, 432-
1314.
1 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. pepper
1 cup 18 oz.) creamed cottage cheese
1 cup (8 oz.l sour cream
]y cup (3 oz. ) shredded Cheddar cheese
Cook noodles as directed on package; drain, Crumble ground beef
into a 2-qt. casserole. Add onion and garlic. Microwave. uncovered, 5
to 6 minutes or until meat is set. Stir to break meat into pieces; drain
fat. Stir in tomato sauce, salt and pepper. Combine cottage cheese
and sour cream. Remove half of meat mixture from casserole. Top
meat in casserole with cooked noodles, then cheese -sour cream mix-
ture. Spoon remaining meat mixture over top. spreading to cover.
Microwave, covered with paper towel, 10 to 12 minutes or until
heated through. Top with Cheddar cheese. Let stand covered about 5
minutes to melt cheese.
BAKED POTATOES FLORENTINE: 6 potatoes. d; cup sour cream,
lb. melted butter or margarine, 1 tsp. sugar, 2 tsp. salt, '., tsp. pep-
per, '2 tbls. dill weed, 2 tbls. chopped chives, 1 10-oz. pkg. chopped
frozen spinach and 1 cup grated Cheddar cheese. Scrub potatoes;
prick with fork. Place in spoke fashion in microwave oven. Cook, un-
covered, at High for 16-18 minutes. turning over once after 8 minutes.
Let stand 5 minutes. Divide potatoes lengthwise: scoop out inside,
saving shells. They will be filled. In bowl, mash together potato, sour
cream, melted butter, sugar, salt, pepper. dill weed and chives. Cut
an X in top of box of frozen chopped spinach and cook on High for 6
minutes, stirring once to break up. Drain well. Blend into potato mix-
ture. Spoon back into potato shells: top with grated cheese. Place
shells around inside t by the sides i of a 8,2 x l2inch glass dish.
Microwave at High for 6 minutes, rotating dish once.
A fine is a tax for doing wrong. A tax is a fine for doing okay.
Dr. Thomas G. Aster it planted
to announce the addition of a now
clinic associate —
OR. SCOT INILL!AMsON
HOURS
BY APPOINTMENT
Dr. Thomas G. Asbel
Dr. Scott Williamson
Chiropractors
Phone: 469-4441
Lakeville
Chiropractic Office
Holyoke at
208th St. W.
Lakeville, MN 55044
CAREY'S CORNER GROCERY
Corner of Third and Ash / Farmington, Minnesota
453-7709
FREE DELIVERY
Tues. & Thurs.
BANQUET
BREAD DOUGH
$119
5 - 1 Ib. !vs.
CORN K1NG
FRANKS
890
12oz. pkg.
PARKAY
MARGARINE
55C
CLOVER LEAF
ORANGE
JUICE
$119
V2 ,
SUNDA"YI& HOUDAYS
9AM-9PM
COVERED WAGON
BREAD
2P1°9
11/2 Ib. Ioavrs 59C ea.
WILDERNESS
CHERRY
PIE FILUNG
990
21 os.
Were HERE when you need usf
Minimum Orden Required
cOv,.o«
CORN KING
BACON
1 lb. Pk9-
•
immpsi Cowen iNg
CLOVER LEAF
BUTTERMILK
490
at-
$129
Without
Campos
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Eagan
EAGAN -- Kenneth Arthur Hed-
tke, 58.3635 Blackhawk Rd., died
Dec 9, 1979, at Bethesda
Lutheran Hospital after an ex-
tended illness from cancer_
Funeral services were Tues-
day, Dec. 11, at Bertas Funeral
Home in Chaska. Rev. Otto
Schlegelmilch officiated at the
service. Interment was in St.
John's Lutheran Church
Cemetery Wednesday, Dec, 12.
Visitation was at Bertas
Funeral Home in Chaska Dec. 11.
A memorial service was Sunday.'
Dec. 16, at Christ Lutheran Chur-
ch. Rev. Otto Schlegelmilch of-
ficiated and Mayor Leo Murphy
spoke.
Kenneth Arthur Hedtke was
born Nov. 6. 1921, to Ervin and
Esther Hedtke in St. Paul. He
was baptized Dec. 18, 1921. at St.
John's Lutheran Church in
He was a radio and radar
operator in the U.S. Navy and
was discharged in 1946, when` he
began attending the University of
Minnesota and received a BA
degree. He then moved to
Washington D.C. and attended
George Washington University,
acquiring a master's degree in
government foreign affairs in
1954.
He worked for the state depart-
ment in Washington, D.C. where
he met and married Frances J.
TenBarge in May 1952. They
moved to Baltimore, MD, where
he was employed by Glenn L.
Martin in 1956. in 1960 they mov-
ed to Minnesota where he was
employed by Univac as a market
consultant. They moved to Eagan
in 1972.
He was a member of the Eagan
advisory planning commission,
the church Tong -range planning
commission and active in the
building of Christ Lutheran Chur-
ch. He was also a member of the
Minnesota River Valley chapter
of the Audubon Society, the Na-
tional Wildlife Foundation, the
Scott County Historical Society
and Murphy's Landing.
He is survived by his wife.
Frances; a brother, Edgar,
Bloomington: and a sister, Mrs.
William (Lorraine) Davis of Nor-
thridge, CA.
'wana.
that area and chooses the person highest
City Council meets Tuesday
The Eagan City Council meets at 6:30
p.m. Tuesday, July 20, at City Hall.
The tentative agenda is as follows:
I. Roll call and pledge of allegiance
II. Adopt agenda and approval of minutes
III. Dakota County Assessor's Office -considera-
tion of abatements
IV. Department head business
V. Consent items
VI. 7 p,m, Public hearings
A. Final assessment hearing, Project 297
(Blackhawk Lake trunk storm sewer outlet)
B. Final assessment hearing, Project 307E (St.
Francis Wood 2nd addition streets)
C. Final assessment hearing, Project 237E
(Killdeer Addition streets)
D. Final assessment hearing, Project 328B
(Cher Mar East 4th addition streets)
E. Final assessment hearing, Project 329B
(Cedar Cliff 2nd Addition streets)
VII. Old business
A. Paratransit Committee report
B. Kingswood Addition/payment of lateral
benefit from trunk utilities
C. Dakota County to amend the PD (Planned
Development) and fora preliminary plat, Dakota
County plat 1. in the Mission Hills Planned
Development, located in part of the NE'/: of the
NE'/. of Section 31, consisting of approximately
12 acres
D. Federal Land Company for rezoning from
R-4 (residential multiple), LB (limited business)
and CSC (community shopping center) to PD
(planned development) located in the N'/ of the
NE'/. of Section 15 and pan of the ES/2 of the
NE'/: of the NW'4 of Section 15, consisting of
approximately !00 acres
E. Special use permit for Si. Paul Pioneer Press
and Dispatch Newspaper vending machines.
F. Water Treatment Plant
VIII. New business
A. Discussion regarding bank depository
B. Northwestern National Bank, Thomas R.
Hall Bauer for a conditional use permit to allow a
drive -up bank machine in a CSC (community
shopping center district) in pan of the NE'/. of
Section 19 in pan of the Cedarvak Shopping
Center
C. Sienna Corporation. Rodney Hardy, for
rezoning from R-3 planned development to allow
85 single family Tots and 84 duplex tots and
%—lcr- O /c�7,A
r
preliminary plat (Northview Meadows) contain-
ing approximately 52 acres in the NE1/4 of the
NW'/4 of Section 26
D. Orrin Thompson Homes for 1-foot variance
from the the ten -foot side lot setback requirement
for Lot 16, Block 2. Johnny Cake Ridge Addition
E. Amendment to Ordinance 52 (zoning or-
dinance) regarding mobile manufactured housing
F. Discussion regarding helicopter pad in
residential subdivision
G. Final plat, Cinnamon Ridge 3rd Addition
Workmens compensation and general liability
insurance renewal
F. Letter of Credit for Industrial Revenue
Financing
G. Contact 82-7, approve plans and
specs./authorize adv. to bids (Cinnamon Ridge
3rd Addition)
IX. Additional items
A. Joint Burnsville/Eagan Cable Television
Commission update
B. City Hall expansion update
C. Receive bids/award contract, Contract 82-6
(Well 7)
D. Receive bids/award contract, Contract 82-8
(1982 seal coating)
X. Visitors to be heard (for those persons not on
the agenda)
Xl. Adjournment
CHRONICLE
EAGAN
Vol. 1, No. 13
December 29, 1980
City
Clerk
Alyce
Bolke
retires
by Linda Hanson
City Clerk Alyce Bolke will retire
Dec. 31 after 21 years of working for
the city.
Bolke and her husband, Ted, and
their children moved to Eagan from St.
Paul in 1948. "1 liked it in the city,"
she said. "He had to drag me out
here."
But it didn't take long for Bolke to
HOLKE: to p Alyce Bolke
At Christmas Eve fire
2
APC says 'no' to Blue Cross -Blue Shield
APC: from p. 1
to Blue Cross -Blue Shield, said that the
intent of the company is to avoid possi-
ble conflict in changing the com-
prehensive plan after it has gone to the
Metropolitan Council.
He added that it was not the com-
pany's intent to develop the land now.
only to get it rezoned.
Storbakken said, "We arc trying to
retain enough land to stay in Eagan.
We are going to need the site for ex-
pansion, there's no doubt about it. We
added 180,000 sq. ft. to our facility
four years ago and now it is filled up.
We bought the land for our own use in
1958 and we would like to use it."
A resident of the area, Bob Swen-
son, said he thought it was premature
to zone the land limited business
because he said area residents were told
the company won't need the site for ex-
pansion until at least 2000.
Storbakken disagreed and said the
site would probably be needed before
then.
APC member Doris Wilkins said, "I
can understand your wanting to
preserve acreage for future expansion.
But why do you want a PD for residen-
tial if you're not going to develop it
now? I can't understand why you're in
such a hurry."
Voting to oppose the rezoning were
Dale Turnham, Wilkins, Joseph Har-
rison, Krob, and Thomas Gits. Voting
not to oppose was David Bohne.
After the vote, Harrison told Stor-
bakken that he probably wouldn't have
a problem with the city council Jan. 20
if he didn't bring up the hypothetical
situation of selling the land to a
developer.
In other action the APC:
• Denied a request by Peace
Reformed Church to rezone 12 acres to
limited business to accommodate a new
church planned to be built near the pre-
.ent church at 4300 Cedar Av. The
APC instead recommended that the
land be zoned public facility business,
which also is proper for a church.
• Approved a conditional use permit
to allow a MacDonald's restaurant
with a drive-in facility in Mari Acres.
• Continued until January a request
by Musical Eateries Inc. for a condi-
tional use permit for on -sale liquor and
recreation at 3994 Cedarvale Dr.
• Approved a waiver of plat to com-
bine two single family lots into one lot
in Twin View Manor.
• Approved a building permit for
Univac's semiconductor facility.
Bolke retires after 21 years of city service
BOLKE: from p. 1
become attached to Eagan.
"Eagan has some of the. most
beautiful land in the state. The kids
had the whole countryside to play in. It
was very rural then. We even had to
grade our own road," she said.
The population of Eagan when she
moved here was 1100, she added.
Eagan's population is now more
than 20,000. The rapid growth has
been one of the most exciting things
about living and working in Eagan,
Bolke said.
"It had started to grow in 1959 when
they first appointed me," she said.
"Since then the population has almost
doubled every ten years. In 1960 the
population was 3300. We had a special
census in 1965 and the population was
6700. It had doubled in five years."
Bolke said that she gives a lot of
credit to the old town board for star-
ting a planning commission about the
same time she started working for the
city. She credits them for Eagan's
orderly growth.
But what Bolke has enjoyed the most
in her job has been meeting the public.
"When I started the job, my phone
at home would ring off the hook,"
Bolke said, "I didn't really mind.
though. If I could help someone then it
was worth it."
She said she didn't even mind handl-
ing one of every city employee's in-
evitable tasks: handling complaints
from the public.
"People have to have someplace to
go when they have a complaint," she
said. "I think city hall should be that
place."
After her retirement, Bolke said she
plans on "having some fun." This in-
cludes going on trips to a lake home in
Ely, and also visiting with her 12
grandchildren.
It will also involve trips with her hus-
band to see their children who have set-
tled in other parts of the country. One
daughter, Gloria Wachtler, lives in
Prescott, Wis. Another, Kathleen
Sauer, lives in Albuquerque, New Mex-
ico; and another, Cheryl Meissner,
lives in Arcata, Cal. Their son, John,
lives in Eagan, as does their daughter,
Judy Mundahl.
Footprints gave away burglary
An alert police officer toiled a
burglary Dec. 22 al the Mediterranean
Cruise restaurant across from the
restaurant and put in a call for other
officers to assist. When the other
patrol cars arrived, police surrounded
cr of t
receipts.
Charged with burglary with a tool is
Michael Dean Kovash, 24, from
Eagan City Council agenda
The Eagan City Council will meet
Jan. 6 at 6:30 p.m. at city hall. The ten-
tative agenda is as follows:
1. Roil call and pledge of allegiance
I1. Adopt agenda and approval of
minutes
I11. Oath of office/Gene
Vanoverbeke, city clerk -treasurer
IY. Department head business
A. Fire Department
B. Police Department
C. Park Department
D. Public Works Department
V. Consent items
VI. Public hearings
A. Tax-exempt financing (1.R. note)
for E.L. Murphy Trucking Co. in the
amount of S2,000.000; 3303 Terminal
Drive
B. Tax-exempt financing (I.R. note)
for J.P.K. Park Co. in the amount of
S2,800.000; S.E. area of Nicols Road
(Cedar Avenue) and Wildwood Lane
(County Road 30)
VII. Old business
A. Paratransit proposal - Grant fun-
ding consideration
VIII. New business
A. McDonald's Corporation for
conditional use permits to 1) allow a
Class 11 restaurant with a drive -up
facility in a CSC (Community Shopp-
ing Center) and 2) pylon sign; located
in the SW1/4, Section 30, Lot 1, Block
1, Mari Acres located, NW of the in-
tersection of Nicols Road (Cedar
Avenue) and Cliff Road (County Road
32).
B. Maxi audits for public buildings
C. Ches Mar East Fourth Addition
Final Plat
IX. Additional Items
A. 1981 Sewer/Water Rate Study
Proposal
B. Zoning Map Update/1981
C. Dakota County Housing Assis-
tance Update
X. Visitors to be heard
Xl. Adjournment
CHRONICLE
1209 E. Cliff Road • Burnsville, Minnesota 55337
890-4456
Wombs. . Suburban Maw;pap•r• of Am•rita
Publisher
General Manager
Advertising Manager
News Editor
Production Manager
Classified Sales Manager
Mary Ziegenhagen
David Ziegenhagen
Joanne Shiebler
Linda Hanson
Dick Thorsen
Carol Prickell
Distributed to evPry household in Eagan every Wednesday
Weak of December 29, 1980
liquor license denial
Tuesday, Sept. 16, 1980
St, Poul Dispatch
City faces lawsuit over
By SCOTT CARLSON
Staff Writer
An attorney. representing a
client who's been twice denied
an off -sale liquor license from
Eagan, has charged that Council-
man Mark Parranto has a "con-
flict of interest" in voting on
such applications.
But Parranto
charge.
ROGER SAX, representing
Mahmood Aghassi, has raised
that allegation about Parranto in
lawsuit because he has a relative
who's held
since 1972.
a off -sale license
Eagan
Aghassi a license wasn't a con-
flict. "I'm perfectly willing to
defend myself in court," he said.
" , .. I don't see where I've done
anything wrong."
Asked about Parranto's situa-
tion, City Attorney Paul Hauge
said: "To the best of my knowl-
edge there's no conflict."
PARRANTO said he would re-
serve further comment until
reading Sax's court statement,
"The existence of this license
(to J. E. Parranto) ... should
disqualify Councilman Parranto
from voting on matters concern-
ing the placement of liquor li-
censes in the city," Sax stated. ,
Aghassi contends the council
has been "arbitrary and capri-
cious" in denying him a license
and is now seeking a court order
to receive one. An hearing is
scheduled Sept. 30 in Dakota
County District Court.
Contacted by Dispatch, Par-
ranto said his vote to deny
which also charges the council-
man has a financial conflict.
Sax alleged that Parranto is
involved with a real estate com-
pany that is the rental agent for
a current Eagan liquor store.
That creates a conflict in the
placement of any liquor license
"in competition with the existing
facility," he charged.
The attorney also stated
Parranto's real estate firm plans
to develop a shopping center
with a liquor store as one tenant
at County Road 30 and Cedar
Avenue.
Meanwhile, Mayor Beatrice
Blomquist denied Sax's specula-
tion that she must have been in-
volved in a secret meeting be-
cause the council didn't discuss
on June 17 why it was denying
Aghassi a license for a second
3S
time.
"THE CITY has a policy on
how we would like liquor stores
to go into the city," Blomquist
said. "We would like them put in
shopping areas.
"That's our policy. Nobody
needs to confer about that."
Blomquist later added: "They
(Sax and Aghassi) simply got up
and said they were going to sue
us. What a way to start. Nobody
was trying to be arbitrary and
capricious."
But Sax said that in his June
17 council appearance he men-
tioned a lawsuit might be
brought because it was the sec-
ond time his client was applying
for the license. Aghassi's initial
license application in November
was denied by the council, be
explained.
DAKOTA COUNTY TRIBUNES , w 7 / 9
Eagan Sets Procedure'
Far Public Hearings
By JUDY STRACHAN
Staff Writer
EAGAN — At the request of the
mayor, Bea Blomquist, and city
council member Jim Smith, the
council voted to change the pro-
cedure for public hearings at
their meeting Feb. 5.
In effect, the mayor would open
the public hearing and the ap-
propriate member of the staff
would make a presentation ex-
plaining the facts to the council
and audience. The mayor would
then allow each side five minutes
to address the issue. After the au-
dience had been heard, the coun-
cil would then discuss the matter
and take the appropriate action.
Dick Lincoln of Miller and
Schroeder Municipals, explained
the technical aspects of the city's
tax exempt mortgage program,
which will make about $17 million
available for mortgages for hous-
ing within the month. City Ad-
ministrator Tom Hedges said
that the city will notify residents
when the program goes into ef-
fect.
Lincoln said that the interest
rate on those mortgages could be
around 9 3/4%, but he did not
want to be held to that figure as
the interest rate on the mortgage
depends on the market for bonds
when they are sold.
The council then designated
MGIC as the mortgage pool at
special hazard insurer; Banco as
the administrator; and First St.
Paul as the trustee. The council
directed staff and the finance
committee to procure other
lenders, besides the two Eagan
banks i First Minnehaha National
Bank detach and Mid -America
National Bank) so as not to
violate anti-trust laws. Brochures
should be out following the Feb_
19 council meeting.
In other action, the council
denied an amendment to the city
liquor license ordinance which
would have deleted the words
"within 300 feet of a church."
Mark and Pamela McCrea had
requested a liquor license in the
proposed shopping center at the
intersection of Co. Rds, 30 and 31,
well within the 300 feet of a chur-
ch.
Council member Ted Wachter
said the ordinance should not be
changed. "We felt it was good
when we set the limitation, and I
feel it still is."
Council member Mark Parran-
to suggested that the wording of
the three ordinances should be
cleared up as they are not worded
similarly. Wachter suggested the
legal advisor check over the wor-
ding and appraise it. "All three
ordinances should be worded
similarly. "
Council member Tom Egan
said he didn't think 300 feet was
too much, "if you look at it on
city-wide basis. We just denied a
license a few weeks ago because
of proximity to another license.
according to our ordinance. I
can't see a real need to change
our ordinance now because of the
proximity to a church."
Following the denial, the coun-
cil urged the McCreas to find an
alternate location, within the
legal limits of the ordinance.
Inother action the council:
CLOSED the assessment hear-
ing and directed the city to file
the assessment role for improve-
ment project 244. Durnings sub-
division water, sewer and storm
sewer.
ORDERED the city to file the
assessment role for improvement
project 251 for Heine first Addi-
tion street lighting.
APPROVED improvement
project 291 for street lighting for
Wilderness Run first and third
Additions.
APPROVED improvement
project 296 for Cedar Cliff Addi-
tion sewer, water, and storm
sewer and streets and ordered
advertisement for bids.
APPROVED the industrial
revenue bond application of Road
Machinery and Supply in the
amount of $3.5 million to con-
struct their corporate head-
quarters, employing about 140
people, in Eagan.
AUTHORIZED the awarding of
PAGE 7A
contracts for Safari Estates
sewers, water, and storm sewer.
TABLED until Feb. 19 the
rezoning and preliminary plat for
Gordon and Doris Leibel at 3850
Beau D'Rue Dr.
DENIED the request for a
rehearing for a special permit ap-
plication for the Montessori
School in the Silver Bell Shopping
Center, stating the request did
not effectively change the coun-
cil's original objections to a
school locating in a shopping
center.
GRANTED a request for a tem-
porary trailer permit for General
Coatings, 2805 Dodd Rd.
APPROVED the final plat of
Ches Mar East second Addition
and ordered a feasibility report
for improvements.
CONTINUED until Feb. 19 the
approval of plans and specifica-
tions for Fish Lake outlet im-
provement 80-5.
APPROVED conditional use
permit renewals for La Pepiniere
Montessori School and Dakota
County CAC.
CONTINUED the vacation of
easements for Block 1 of
Wilderness Run first Addition.
AUTHORIZED the fire depart-
ment to spend up to 32000 for the
clean-up project for spring.
ESTABLISHED hours for pick-
up of pets and the city animal
pound.
SET a special meeting for Feb.
28 to discuss the ice arena pro-
posal.
MOVED to have a public hear-
ing for Mn/DOT to explain noise
abatement along the new Cedar
freeway
Neighborhoods
South
Tuesday, Jan. 6, 1981 / 1S
Mayor couldn't sit back and do nothing
Kay Harvey
City management is much like a game of chess for
Eagan Mayor Bea Blomquist. "You have to figure out
what move to make next and who the pawns are," said
the mayor. Another year of planning strategy lies ahead
for Mrs. Blomquist, who is at the halfway point in her
two-year term.
It was a weak moment, Bea Blomquist said, when she
volunteered to run for mayor.
"It wasn't even premeditated," said Mrs. Blomquist, who
now has half of a two-year term as Eagan's mayor behind
her.
But fellow townspeople who heard her spontaneous offer
wouldn't let her forget it.
"I felt if I sat back and did nothing, I would have done
nothing," she said. "I'm simply not a do-nothing person."
Mrs. Blomquist said she had felt the city needed new lead-
ership. She decided she couldn't let her concerns dwindle to a
so -what attitude.
"I just can't take that attitude," Mrs. Blomquist said. "If I
see concerns, I like to work them out. I figured if I ran for
mayor, I could at least say I tried."
She won the mayor's race against incumbent Leo Murphy
in November of 1979 by about a four to three margin.
It's been a year like no other, Mrs. Blomquist said. Some
of Eagan's victories have been won in court.
"Eagan has been plagued with a lot of lawsuits," said Mrs.
Blomquist. "Some of them have been resolved in the past
year.'
The first was a rezoning question and another stemmed
from denial of a liquor license.
The third, stemming from the city's attempts to move a
shop selling drug paraphernalia out of Eagan, was not a
court victory as such.
But city officials felt the issue had a positive ending. De-
spite a court ruling that offered less than they had hoped, the
council was able to enact an ordinance prohibiting the sale
of drug paraphernalia in the city. They also convinced the
shop owner to close his business in Eagan.
The drug paraphernalia issue was of great concern to
Mayor Blomquist, she said.
"Drug use is illegal," she said. "I just can't condone it. I
know this is just one little facet of it, but if we can keep
these devices away from young people, more power to us."
A year of progess has not been without stumbling blocks.
Mrs. Blomquist said.
South
wind
by Kay Harvey
A Grand Jury investigation of a charge that Mrs. Blom-
quist used unfair campaign practices ended in her acquittal.
But the experience took time and energy she would have
rather spent on other things.
"There were so many important things to be done," she
said. "It seemed such an unnecessary cost to taxpayers when
1 felt there wasn't a problem all along."
Mrs. Blomquist said she has also been followed at night
and has been the victim of other "displays of pettiness" by
people who formerly had an active voice in Eagan govern-
ment. Her experiences have led her to ask for extra police
protection.
"I just don't think elected officials should have to go
through things like that," she said. "It is such a waste of time
to have to deal with so much nonsense."
Still, she's enthusiastic about the year ahead.
She's hoping the city can work with the county to resolve
some of its road problems, particularly the upgrading of
Pilot Knob Road and County Road 30.
Another goal will be finalizing and working with the Met-
ropolitan Council and the State Legislature to solve some
problems with the city's comprehensive plan.
"Is it a guide or a master plan? Everyone on the council is
asking that question," Mrs. Blomquist said.
She hopes the council can work to find ways to adhere to
comprehensive land use plan specifications and to still be
able to consider the requests of individual citizens.
"We've worked really hard to give people a voice and let
them be heard," Mrs. Blomquist said. "That was one of my
campaign promises. I'd like to be able to stay with that com-
See Mayor, Page 2S
2S
St. Paul Dispatch
Tuesday, Jan. 6, 1981
Halfway house is 'people caring about people'
By KAY HARVEY
Staff Writer
Breakfast is at seven.
It's the start of another new
day for recovering alcoholics
and drug
abusers at the
Virgil Cochran
Halfway House
in Hastings.
"As big a
killer as this
disease is, it is
one in which
you can see re-
sults rapidly,"
said Bob Row-
land, who
directs opera- McMonigal
tion of the halfway house.
Residents at the halfway
house express enthusiasm about
what they consider a fresh start.
■
All but one of the 12 residents
are jobless. and on a typical
weekday, most of their time is
spent in job -hunting efforts.
They're also expected to do
"chores" around the house, Row-
land said.
Residents sleep in dormitory -
type rooms with two, three and
four beds. A row of photographs
and a set of barbells are among
other signs this is home — at
least for a time.
Three meals a day are provid-
ed at the halfway house through
Minnesota Veterans Home facili-
ties.
Title 20 funds, federal money
dispersed through the county,
help to fund the halfway house.
Donations have also helped and
residents with jobs are expected
to pick up their own tab for room
and board, which is $9.05 per
day.
After the first two weeks of
residence, there are few restric-
tions on corning and going.
Attending no fewer than two
Alcoholics Anonymous meetings
in the community each week is a
requirement, Rowland said. One
meeting each week is held at the
halfway house.
"It's tough to explain exactly
how the program works," said
Kevin "K.C." McMonigal, coun-
selor at the halfway house, "but
it does. We follow the philosophy
of A.A., the 12 steps and 12 tradi-
tions. We're A.A.-oriented, al-
though we're not directly affili-
ated with them."
Residents are also required to
become involved with other
members of the halfway house
'family' and to participate in
group activities.
■
"It has to be worked on," said
McMonigal, "but it is kind of
forced on them. Most residents
come in wanting to be left alone,
but the others just keep working
on them."
Changes in residents who have
been at the halfway house for a
few weeks are apparent, McMo-
nigal said.
"It's really individual," he
said. "One kid has settled down a
lot. He's more aware of his ac-
tions. A lot of the guys are learn-
ing how to expess themselves."
It is often true that people who
are chem.c.ally dependent have
never learned to express their
feelings appropriately, McMoni-
gal said.
Teaching that skill is among
the goals of the halfway house
staff, which also includes a house
manager who works outside or
the house during the day and an
assistant.
■
"It's people caring about peo-
ple; that's the simplicity of it,"
said Rowland.
History of the Dakota County
detoxification unit and the cre-
ation of the halfway house reveal
that's what's behind the entire
operation. Early in the 70's, a
group of citizens formed a corpo-
ration to get it all going.
The detoxification center,
funded by the county, opened in
1973 in a Veterans' Home build-
ing formerly used as a state
mental hospital. Rowland joined
the staff in 1979, when the wheels
began turning to set up the half-
way house.
Before taking the job at. Hast-
ings, Rowland had been involved
with starting chemical depen-
dency treatment centers at Ash-
land, Hibbing, Marquette, Grand
Marais and Duluth.
•
An upper floor in the building
which houses the detoxification
unit was remodeled for the half-
way house. It includes a "family
room" and recreation area.
Unoccupied buildings on the site
of the former state hospital offer
possibilities for halfway house
expansion, Rowland said, but
planning is in the preliminary
stages.
"We started with men," Row-
land said, "because that seemed
the easiest and most logical."
Rowland envisions a series of
halfway houses that would also
accommodate women who are
alone, women with children and
adolescents.
"I like to make things hap-
pen," said Rowland, "But in this
line of work most of the time
things happen in spite of me. I've
seen a lot of miracles."
■
Recovering alcoholics, drug users rebuilding lives
By KAY HARVEY
Staff Writer
John used to tell people he had
a $100,000 rec room in his base-
ment.
"I lived over a St. Paul bar;"
he said. "But this time I'm not
going back."
John (not his real name) is 48.
■
He has been through chemical
dependency treatment three
times.
"Both times before, 1 went
right back to living alone and
ended up right back in treat-
ment," he said.
This time he's going forward,
he said, with the help and sup-
port of his friends and counselors
MI
at the Virgil Cochran Halfway
House in Hastings. Now be is
learning new ways to spend his
leisure time and to deal with his
problems.
"When we have problems, we
talk to each other," said John.
"We have meetings five nights a
week- There's a lot of support
right in the house."
•
John went to the halfway
house on the recommendation of
a counselor in his alcoholism
treatment program.
Finding a new place to live is
only one of the things he faces in
reconstructing his life. He also
must find a new job.
John is the oldest of the 12 res-
idents now sharing the house.
Age makes little difference to
•
Rowland: Recovery is 'a lonely thing'
• Continued from Page IS
said. In some cases it is a reflec-
tion of a residents' confidence in
the ability to make it on his own.
While the residents there now
range in age from 20 to 48, the
majority of those who stay at the
halfway house are in their 20s,
Rowland said.
some people need more support
and structure because they are
away from their families, or are
they alone because their lives
lack that structure?"
The halfway house is named
for one of the chief promoters of
chemical dependency awareness
and services in Dakota County.
Ir.,
been full and has had a waiting
list.
The program is too young to
cite a success rate, Rowland
said, and success is an elusive
term in relation to chemical de-
pendency.
"There is no cure for drug or
Rowland himself has been a
recovering alcoholic for 15
years, he said.
To use the word "cured" would
indicate achieving a degree of
recovery that allows a person to
use chemicals in social situa-
tions, he said.
these residents who share a com-
mon concern — creating a life-
style free of alcohol and drug
use.
Jerry (also a fictitious name)
is 20. His recovery from drug
abuse and his experiences at the
halfway house are like a rebirth,
he said.
Without the halfway house, he
doesn't know where he would be,
he said.
"I don't have anybody else,"
said Jerry. "My wife is divorcing
me and my folks don't want me.
Everybody I know uses (takes
drugs). If I hadn't come here, I'd
probably be drunk or dead or in-
sane."
Mike, another resident, is 21.
This is his second stay at the
halfway house, where the time
before he dropped out early.
"I've been here twice," said
lice officer. Now, he said, he
would be interested in a job as a
city policeman.
Like Mike, Tim is 21. His prob-
lems with drug abuse cost him
his marriage. His recovery
hasn't changed that, but it has
given him back his self-respect,
he said.
"When I was using (drugs), I
hated myself," said Tim. "Now I
am really beginning to like
myself. Living in the house is re-
ally helping me out. These
friends here are real; they're not
fake."
Finding a job is a concern for
Tim, too, as it is for 11 of the 12
staying at the halfway house.
But the residents agree jobs
are hard to come by. Public
transportation from Hastings to
the Twin Cities is not available.
And there is reluctan • . mo
Mayor
■ Continued from Page is
munication. Otherwise I feel we're going backward rather
than forward."
Mrs. Blomquist and her husband. Ed, have three children
and a grandchild. A chemist for an equipment manufactur-
ing company, Mrs. Blomquist took over as mayor after six
years on the Eagan planning commission.
City management is often a matter of planning strategy,
Mrs. Blomquist said.
"Sometimes it's like playing a game of chess," she said.
"You have to figure out what move to make next and who
the pawns are."
THE LONE OAK TREE
A SYMBOL OF
STRENGTH AND GROWTH
EAGAN
NEWS
CITY OF EAGAN
3795 PILOT KNOB ROAD
EAGAN, MN 55122
PHONE: 454-8100
CAR-RT
BULK RATE
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
ST. PAUL, MN.
PERMIT NO.4902
POSTAL CUSTOMER
EAGAN, MINNESOTA
DECEMBER 1982 VOLUME 5 NUMBER 3
"911" TELEPHONE SYSTEM
Since December 1, 1982, the City of
Eagan has been part of the Metro
Emergency Telephone Calling System
"911".
911 should be used to: SAVE A L I FE
- REPORT A CRIME - PREVENT A CRIME
- REPORT A FIRE - OR ANY OTHER
EMERGENCY.
For all other police or fire non -emer-
gency business, calls should be made
to 454-3700. This number will remain
the police department non -emergency
phone number.
Also, the Police Department would like
to remind the public and business com-
munity that automatic dialer systems
are prohibited from using the 911 emer-
gency number. State Statute #237.47
prohibits an automatic dialer from
using 911.
The City of Eagan has provided exten-
sive equipment and training of profes-
sional police and fire emergency dis-
patchers to use the 911 system. How-
ever, the emergency dispatcher must
be able to ask the caller certain infor-
mation to insure the appropriate police,
fire or ambulance unit will be sent to
the scene in the shortest possible time.
The Eagan City Newsletter is distri-
buted three times a year as a pub-
lic service by the Eagan City Coun-
cil. The Newsletter is sponsored by
the Public Relations Committee and
prepared through the office of the
City Administrator.
CITY HALL UPDATE
The Cable Service Territory of Burns-
ville -Eagan has sent out requests for
proposals to all cable companies in-
terested in providing service to the
area. In the request, the Cable Com-
mission told the cable industry they
wanted a communications system which
would provide a variety of entertain-
ment. In addition, they requested the
opportunity for access to information,
to share messages, to increase security,
to save energy and to share in any
other benefits made possible by ad-
vancing communications technology.
The Cable Commission expects all pro-
posals to be in by January, 1983. A
review and selection process will follow
over a four -five month period. The
successful bidder will be required to
construct the subscriber distribution
system and the institutional network.
in the initial service area within two
years of receiving the franchise. A
map of the initial service area is
posted at the Eagan City Hall.
INSIDE
1983 Budget Page 2
On Street Parking Ban Page 3
Snowmobile Riding Page 3
Winter Recreation Programs Page 5
1983 BUDGET
HISTORY OF EAGAN
General Fund
REVENUE
General Property Taxes
Licenses
Permits
Intergovernmental Revenue
Charges for Services
Recreation Charges
Fines & Forfeits
Miscellaneous Revenues
Refunds & Reimbursements
EXPENDITUPES
General Government
Mayor & Council
Administration
Finance/Clerk/Elections
Legal
Planning & Zoning
General Government Buildings
Public Safey/
Police
Fire
Protective Inspections
Animal Control
Civil Defense
Ambulance Service
?ublic Works
Public Works/Engineering
Streets & Highways
Parks & Recreation
Parks & Recreation
Tree Conservation
Other
Contingency
Tota l
$2,099,210
48,440
206,400
838,650
93,900
33,410
40,000
32,600
339,340
$3,732,950
$ 30,020
138,370
277,170
73,500
78,400
47,260
$ 644,72o
$1,374,370
237,320
155,500
28,100
2,390
26,400
$1,824,080
$ 249,710
504,270
$753,980
$ 433,150
42,020
$ 475,170
$ 35►000
$ 35,000
$3,732,950
The 1983 General Fund Budget reflects
operational costs for all City depart-
ments, excluding Public Enterprise
(Water & Sewer) and Debt Service Ob-
ligations. Copies of a detailed budget,
providing a breakdown for each depart-
ment, are available for inspection at
City Hall. It is possible that new per-
sonnel and capital equipment purchases.
planned for 1983 wi 11 be frozen due
to the anticipated local government aid
cutbacks proposed by the State of
Minnesota.
The City Council has approved the
manuscript for an Eagan community
history book. Final additions are now
being prepared before a publisher is
chosen. The Eagan History Committee
has collected well over 100 photographs
of early Eagan, as well as family
stories, maps, area history and other
interesting material. The book should
be ready for sale in 1983; watch for
further notices!
ADVISORY AFPOINTMENTS
Interested residents are encouraged to
apply for positions on the City's
Advisory Planning Commission and
Advisory Park & Recreation Committee.
The Advisory Planning Commission meets
the fourth Tuesday of each month to
review development plans and make
recommendations to the City Council.
Four appointments will be made to this
commission. The three year terms of
David Bohne, Doris Wilkins and Michael
Wold are expiring and the one year
alternate position, currently held by
Garrett Mulrooney, is also expiring as
of December 31, 1982.
The Advisory Park & Recreation Commit-
tee meets the first Thursday of each
month to advise the City Council re-
garding park dedication by developers,
purchase of additional park land, de-
velopment of existing park land and
City recreational programs. Four
appointments are required to fill the
expiring three year terms of George
Kubik, Douglas McNeely, Margaret
Tilley and Carolyn Thurston.
Residents of Eagan who wish to apply
for one of the above positions should
submit a letter expressing their interest
and describing their background to the
City Administrator before January 5,
1983. Appointments will be considered
at the 1983 organizational meeting of
the City Council scheduled for January
18, 1983.
2
ON STREET PARKING BAN
The City of Eagan has an ordinance
which PROHIBITS PARKING on City
streets during and immediately fol-
lowing a snowfall accumulation of one
or more inches. This NO PARKING ban
is in effect for 36 hours until snow
has been plowed to the full width
(curbs) of of the street. Vehicles
found parking on a City street during
this snowfall period will be issued a
citation. if the vehicle is not removed
within 24 hours, it will then be towed,
impounded and incur additional costs
which will be the responsibility of the
owner of the vehicle.
if you have a vehicle thathas had
frequent problems with starting or
being driven during extended cold or
snowy periods, it is advisable not to
park it on City streets during the win-
ter months.
if it is at all possible, please wait
until the street has been plowed before
cleaning your driveway. There is no
way the plows can plow your street
without depositing snow into your
driveway approach. It is also unlaw-
ful to shovel or push snow from private
driveways, parking lots, sidewalks,
etc., onto a public street.
If you have any questions pertaining
to snow removal procedures, please con -
SNOWMOBILE RIDING
Snowmobilers are reminded that the City
has an ordinance regulating the opera-
tion and use of snowmobiles within the
City. The operation of snowmobiles
on boulevards, school grounds, private
property and City parks and fields is
prohibited.
Lebanon Hills Regional Park (Iiolland-
Jensen Park) in the Dakota County Park
system does maintain a groomed trail
for snowmobiles. A parking lot is
available south of Cliff Road to the
east of Pilot Knob Road which has
access to the trail.
Copies of snowmobile regulations are
available at City Hall and the Parks
Rc Recreation office.
3
tact the Superintendent of Streets at
454-5220. Any questions pertaining to
a vehicle that has been towed shoula
be directed to the Police Department
at 454-3900.
Snow removal on the following roads
is the responsibility of the Dakota
County Highway Department:
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
Road
Road
Road
Road
Road
Road
Road
Road
23
26
28
30
31
32
43
63
County Road 63A
(Nicols Road)
(Lone Oak Road)
(Yankee Doodle Rd.)
(Diffley Road)
(Pilot Knob Road)
(Cliff Road)
(Lexington Avenue )
(Dodd Road north of
Diffley)
(West of T.H. 149)
Any calls pertaining to snow and ice
control on these County roads should
be directed to the Dakota County High-
way Department at 437-0398.
The City of Eagan is asking all its
citizens to do their share in helping
to keep the streets clear of parked
vehicles until all snow removal opera-
tions have been completed. During this
:oming winter season, every citizen's
cooperation and patience is needed and
appreciated. Help us to provide you
with the best service possible.
NEW CITY HALL UPDATE
Final design plans for the new city
hall are under review by the City
Council. It is anticipated that bids
will be let in early 1983, with con-
struction to begin in late winter/early
spring. Plans will be completed in
the near future for remodeling the
existing city hall for fire administra-
tion offices, fire department training
and a new location for the paramedics
and ambulance.
Drawings and a model of the new city
hall are available for public inspection
at the existing city hall.
CRIME PREVENTION WORKS!
DOG LICENSE RENEWALS
The Eagan Police Department would like
to thank residents who have been co-
operating with our past program of
notifying the police of any suspicious
or strange automobiles, persons or
things in neighborhoods.
In the past six months the Eagan
Police Department has received informa-
tion from local citizens, enabling the
police to recover stolen property, arrest
individuals involved in burglary and
many many suspicious persons have
been questioned and we are certain
prevented from committing crimes in
Eagan because of alert citizens.
The Eagan Police Department will be
organizing more neighborhood watch
programs and anyone interested in
helping organize these groups should
contact the Eagan Police Department,
454-3700. Officer Larry Billmeyer will
be conducting these programs with
residents.
clip 'n' save
TELEPHONE NUMBERS
Police, Fire, Rescue 911
Police, Non -Emergency 454-3900
For Questions Regarding:
Meeting Agendas
Council Decisions
Ordinances
Sewer & Water Bills
Building Inspection
General Information 454-8100
Mayor
Bea Blomquist 454-2308
Council Members
Tom Egan 452-3957
Jim Smith 454-1734
Jerry Thomas 454-1464
Ted Wachter 454-2130
City Administrator
Tom (ledges 454-6100
City Hall Office Flours
8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Monday through Friday
Pet owners are reminded that dog
licenses must be renewed prior to
February 20, 1983. A late fee of 500
per month for each dog will be charged
after this date. The rate schedule for
dog licenses is as follows:
Male or Female $5
Neutered or Spayed $3
Licenses can be purchased at City Hall
during regular office hours. Proof of
a current rabies shot is required before
the license can be issued. Rabies shots
must be repeated every two years.
All dogs over the age of six months
must be licensed. Also, City ordinance
forbids dogs from running at large
within Eagan.
RABIES CLINIC
A rabies clinic will be held at City
Hall on January 29, 1983 from 10 a.m.
to 4 p.m. Two local veterinarians will
be present during the day. Cost is
$5 per pet. It will be possible to
purchase dog licenses the day of the
clinic.
CHRISTMAS TREE SAFETY
During this holiday season, the Fire
Depart ment recommends that Christmas
trees be treated with a universal fire
retardant solution.
ingredients:
9 Ounces Borax Powder
1 Gallon Warm Water
4 Ounces Boric Acid
Mix entire contents well and apply to
the entire tree in generous quantities.
All ingredients may be purchased at
a drug store at a minimum cost. Total
immersion of the tree is most effective,
otherwise use a hand or electric
sprayer.
4
EAGAN
WINTER
RECREATION
_= PROGRAMS
RINK LOrAFIONS
Warming houses at outdoor skating rink
sites in the City of Eagan will open
on approximately December 18, 1982,
subject to weather conditions. Warming
house hours will be as follows:
Saturdays & School Vacation
Days:
Sundays:
Week Days After
Christmas Eve &
Days:
Christmas Day:
New Year's Day:
10 AM - 9 PM
Noon - 9 PM
School: 4PM - 9 PM
New Year's Eve
10 AM - 4 PM
Closed
Noon - 4 PM
Warming houses will be open during
the hours listed unless one of three
conditions exist :
1. The wind chill factor is -25° or
colder.
2. Three or more inches of snow has
fallen and rinks have not yet been
cleared.
3. Warm temperatures soften the ice,
making the rinks unskateable.
Parking at all rink sites is to be in
the parking lots provided or on the
street. Cars parked on the mainte-
nance roadway or on field areas next
to a rink or warming house are subject
to be tagged. Your cooperation is
asked in order to prevent costly turf
repairs to the parks in the spring and
for the safety of skaters.
Rinks at pond sites will be cleared
when the ice is safe.
OUTDOOR SKATING RINKS
CLASS A RINKS
RAHN PARK: On Sandstone Drive next
to Rahn School
WELL SITE: On Pilot Knob Road just
north of Cliff Road
CLASS B RINKS
CARNELIAN PARK: On Carnelian Lane
at Blackhawk Road
WOODHAVEN PARK: On Gold Trail,
southeast of Beau D' Rue Drive
PILOT KNOB SCHOOL: On Lone Oak Road
i mile east of Highway 13
CLASS C RINKS
HIGHVIEW PARK: On Skyline Dirve,
west of Pilot Knob Road
LEXINGTON PARK: In the McKee Addi-
tion, east of Lexington Avenue
PLEASURE RINKS WITHOUT
ATTENDED WARMING HOUSES
CEDAR POND PARK: On Diffley Road,
east of Cedar School
COUNTRY HOME HEIGHTS PARK: On Beam
Lane at Egan Avenue
BURR OAKS PARK: Highway 149 &
Chapel Lane
EVERGREEN PARK: On Lodgepole Drive,
west off Pilot Knob Road at Wal-
frid Street
5
TO RESERVE A RINK
Neighborhood groups or Eagan organiza-
tions may reserve a rink for a special
event by calling the Parks & Recreation
office at 454-7802 at least one week
prior to the date of the event. Special
events are to occur during the normal
hours that the warming houses are
open. Broomball games and practices
are scheduled only at selected sites,
not at all rinks. All special events
must observe the posted warming house
rules.
ADULT SKI LESSONS
The Parks & Recreation Department
offers BEGINNER CROSS COUNTRY SK1
LESSONS FOR ADULTS. The lessons may
be taken using your own equipment or
rental equipment at the site. Class
size is limited.
Dates:
Times:
Saturdays,
& 29
Section 1
Section II
Section I1I
January 15, 22,
10:00 AM-11:15
11:30 AM-12:45
1:00 PM- 2:15
AM
PM
PM
All January 15 sessions will meet in-
doors at the individually scheduled
class time in the community room at
Cedarvale Lanes. The indoor session
will cover care and use of equipment,
suggested attire, safety aspects and
what will be experienced during the
two outdoor sessions.
The outdoor sessions will originate from
Diamond T Ranch located on the west
side of Pilot Knob Road approximately
mile south of Cliff Road. Diamond
T Ranch will reserve rental equipment
for class members who register in the
rental category.
Class Fee: $10.00 with own equipment
$19.00 with rental equipment;
indicate height and shoe
size
Register:
In person
Parks &
beginning
or by mail at the
Recreation office
December 20, 1982
CROSS COUNTRY SKI TRAILS
Groomed cross country ski trails are
maintained in two City parks and at
Lebanon Hills Regional Park. The
beginner and the more experienced
skier can equally be challenged by the
trails in scenic settings.
BLACKHAWK PARK has a ski trail one
mile in length over hilly terrain. The
trail entrance and limited parking are
at the end of Palisade Way at Riverton,
which is east off Blackhawk Road at
Cochrane.
PATRICK EAGAN PARK provides two miles
of trials over varried terrain. The
parking lot is located west off Lexing-
ton Avenue, < mile north of Diffley
Road. The trail entrance is adjacent
to the parking lot.
LEBANON HILLS REGIONAL PARK operated
by the Dakota County Parks Department
provides groomed trails through hilly
and wooded terrain. A total of 8 miles
of trails, located in Eagan and Apple
Valley, offer loops for the beginner,
intermediate and advanced skier.
Parking is located off Cliff Road, /.
miles east of Pilot Knob Road. Parking
and ski rental are also available
nearby at the Diamond T Ranch on Pilot
Knob Road. For additional information,
contact the Dakota County Parks De-
partment at 437-6608.
COUPLES' VOLLEYBALL
Couples' volleyball will resume play
on January 5, 1983 at 7:00 p.m. at
Pilot Knob Elementary School.
New participants may register at the
Parks & Recreation office or at the
school on January 5. A fee of $10.00
is charged to cover the cost of the use
of the gymnasium.
Couples' volleyball is recreational in
nature; no set teams are established.
Deadline: January 12, 1983
6
DOG OBEDIENCE
TINY TOTS
Two sections of dog obedience training
are offered this winter. Classes meet
on 10 consecutive Monday evenings be-
ginning January 3, 1983.
Dogs should be 9 months old or older
to train effectively. Certificate of
rabies vaccination must be brought to
the first class session. The handler
may be an adult or youth eleven years
old or older; however, the same indivi-
dual is to work the dog each week.
Equipment needed includes a choker
chain 2 inches longer than the girth
of the dog's neck and a six foot
leather leash.
Dogs registered for the Novice Class
must have taken Beginner Lessons pre-
viously.
Where: Basement of Police Building,
3830 Pilot Knob Road
Dates: January 3 - March 7, 1983
Time: Section I Beginner 6:00-7:OOPM
Section I1 Novice 7:15-8:15PM
Fee: $15.00
Register: In person or by mail at the
Parks & Recreation office,
beginning December. 20, 1982
Deadline:
December 30, 1982
SELECTION/CARE OF PLANT MATERIAL
The Parks & Recreation Department will
offer a seminar on the selection and
care of plant materials. This two hour
session will cover selection of trees
and shrubs, proper pruning of plant
materials and desirable fertilizer pro-
grams.
Where: Community Room at Cedarvale
Lanes
Date:
Time:
Cost:
Tuesday, February 8, 1983
7 : 00 - 9 : 00 P.M.
$2.50
Registration Deadline: February 1, 1983
The winter session of Tiny Tots Recrea-
tional Activities for children ages 3,
4 and 5 will begin the week of January
10, 1983. Children will experience
games, singing, stories, simple crafts
and supervised play. Group size is
limited.
Where:
Rahn Park Building on Sand-
stone Drive, west of Rahn
School
Dates: January 10 - March 3, 1983
Fee:
Days:
$20.00
Section
Section
Section
Section
M & W 10 AM -Noon
M & W 1 PM-3 PM
T & TH 10 AM -Noon
T & TH 1 PM-3 PM
Register: In person or by mail at the
Parks & Recreation office
beginning December 20, 1982
Deadline: December 30, 1982
ADULT SOFTBALL LEAGUES
The City of Eagan Parks & Recreation
directs the following adult softball
leagues:
Monday Play:
Tuesday Play:
Eagan Women's Soft-
ball League
Eagan Men's Recrea-
tional. Softball League
Wednesday Play: Eagan Men's Indus-
trial League
Thursday Play: Eagan Men's Over 35
Softball League
Friday Play: Eagan Couples' Kit-
tenball League
Managers of prospective new teams
should contact the Parks & Recreation
office at 454-7802 prior to March 25,
1983 to receive team registration infor-
mation.
7
GO-TOGETHER/ENERGY SAYERS::'
THE OUTINGS LISTED BELOW ARE CO —SPONSORED BY THE APPLE VALLEY, EAGAH AND ROSEMOUNT PARKS AND RECREATION
DEPARTMENTS. TO REGISTER, SIMPLY MAIL OR BRING THE APPROPRIATE REGISTRATION FORM TO ANY OF THE
RECREATION DEPARTMENTS LISTED ABOVE. NOTE: NO REFUNDS WILL BE ISSUED AFTER THE REGISTRATION DEADLINE.
NEIL SIMON'S "CHAPTER TWO"
AT OLD LOG THEATER
THURSDAY, JANUARY 27, 1983
Enjoy lunch at the Old Log Theater and
a matinee performance of Neil Simon's
play "Chapter Two". Set in the present
day, Chapter Two is an autobiogra-
phical comedy/drama concerning the
difficulty of second marriage after one
partner has died. The registration
fee includes lunch, the play, and bus
transportation.
Bus Leaves:
Hayes Community Center
at 10:30 a.m.
Ken Rose Shopping Cen-
ter at 10:45 a.m.
Cedarvale Shopping Cen-
ter (west parking
lot at 11:00 a.m.
Bus Returns: Approximately 5 p.m.
Cost: $13.50 (includes lunch)
Registration: Fill out one of the
Parks and Recreation
registration blanks and
return it to the appro-
priate recreation de-
partment. Please speci-
fy pickup point!
r)es.iline: January 20, 1983
WORLD'S TOUGHEST RODEO
AT MET CENTER
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 1983
Come and see the "World's Toughest
Rodeo" including six championship
events and featuring 300 Professional
Rodeo Cowboys Association contestants,
plus music and comedy. Rodeo will
be held at the Met Center.
Bus Leaves:
Bus
Cost:
Registration:
Deadline:
Hayes Community Center
at 1:15 p.m.
Ken Rose Shopping Cen-
ter at 1:30 p.m.
Cedarvale Shopping Cen-
ter West Parking
Lot at 1:45 p.m.
Returns: Approximately 4:30 p.m.
$6.75
Fill out the registration
blank and return it
to the appropriate de-
partment. Please spe-
cify pickup point!
January 11, 1983
ALL REGISTRATIONS ARE TO RE MADE IN PERSON
OR BY MAIL AT THE PARKS AND RECREATION OFFICE.
COFFEE ,'ONCERT
AT ORCHESTRA HALL
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 1983
Hayes Community Center
at 8:45 a.m.
Ken Rose Shopping Cen-
ter at 9:00 a.m.
Cedarvale Shopping Cen-
ter West Parking
Lot at 9:15 a.m.
Bus Returns: Approximately 3:30 p.m.
Cost: 311.00 includes coffee,
fashion show, and Min-
nesota Orchestra per-
formance.
Registration: Fill out the registration
blank and return it
to the appropriate de-
partment. Please spe-
cify pickup point!
Deadline: January 17, 1983
Absolutely no registra-
tion accepted after this
date!
join us for an action packed day as
we begin with coffee and a fashion
show in the lounge of Orchestra Hall.
The fashion show will be sponsored by
"Jackson Graves" of Minneapolis. Fol-
lowing the fashion show will be a con-
cert preview with Mary Ann Feldman.
The Minnesota Orchestra will be per-
forming with guest conductor Neville
Marriner. After the performance, we
will head over to the Hyatt Regency
where participants will have two hours
to enjoy lunch and browse through a
few of the many shops. The choice
of restaurant will be left up to you
and the cost of lunch is on your own
and is not included in the registration
fee. We have excellent seats for this
performance of the Minnesota Orchestra.
Why not join us for a truly unique
experience?
Bus Leaves:
EAGAN PARKS 6 RECREATION DEPARTMENT
NAME
ADDRESS
NAME OF ACTIVITY
PHONE
CITY
BUSINESS PHONE
ZIP
OTHER ACTIVITY INFORMATION (day, time, section, # of tickets, etc.)
Make check payable to: City of Eagan
Send to: Parks & Recreation Department
3501 Coachman Road
Eagan, MN 55122
8
Enclosed is $
to cover registration.
Eagan City Council Agenda
The Eagan City Council will meet
Dec. 2 at 6:30 p.m. at city hall. The
tentative agenda is as follows:
I. Roll call and pledge of allegiance
1l. Adopt agenda and approval of
minutes
111. Department head business
A. Fire department
B. Police department
C. Park department
D. Public works department
IV. Consent Items
A. Award bid for two squad cars
B. Joint use rental agreement for
1981
V. Public hearings
VI. Old business
A. Final plat for Cedarview Addi-
tion
B. Boyer Truck & Equipment Com-
pany for a conditional use permit for
outside storage
C. Overhill Properties, Inc., for
rezoning from A (Agricultural) to R-1
(Residential Single) and R-2 (Residen-
tial Double) and the preliminary plat
for Overhill Farm Addition, SE'/ of
Section 25, Dodd Road and Cliff
Road.
D. Final resolution for I.R. Financ-
ing for Carson Pirie Scott & Co.
Vtl. New business
A. Walter Hafstad for final plat ap-
proval of Blackhawk Woods. located
in section 20.
B. Final plat approval of Lembke
First Addition.
C. Final plat approval of Leibel Ad-
dition,
D. Final plat approval of St. Francis
Wood Second Addition.
E. Fred Lee for conditional use per-
mit for a restaurant (Lee's Barbecue)
to have on -sale wine and beer, and for
on -sale wine and beer licenses, located
on lot 1, block 1, Silver Bell Road
Shopping Center, SW 1, section 17.
Vltl_ Additional items
A. Administrative transfer increase.
IX. Visitors to be heard (For those
persons not on the agenda).
X. Adjournment
10
L
Eagan Council approves
COUNCIL: from p. 9
owners would be assessed 3.4 cents per
sq. ft. of their property; multiple fami-
ly home owners would pay 4.25 cents
per sq. ft.; and commercial and in-
dustrial property owners would pay 5.1
cents per sq. ft.
Council member Thomas Egan said,
"I know it's very unpopular to come
along with assessments at any time, but
we've had problems here in the past
and if we don't do anything we'll have
problems in the future. This is the least
expensive way to alleviate the
problem."
In answer to the concern that salt
and other contaminants in water runn-
ing off Highway 55 will damage Burr
Oak Pond, Council member Theodore
Wachter said, "1 sympathize with your
thinking. But we've found in other
areas that this isn't a problem."
Blomquist told the residents that for
the past eight years the city has
monitored water in ponds which hold
run-off water and they haven't found
any problem with salt contamination.
She also reminded them that if they
wanted to leave the level of Burr Oak
Pond at its high level they could do it if
they could get the cooperation of every
property owner with land abutting the
pond.
In other action the council:
• Approved the sale of S3,650,000 in
public improvement bonds. Bids for
the bonds will be received Dec. 17. The
bonds will pay for 32 public improve-
ment projects approved by the council
since June.
• Appointed a committee to study
general business and billboard signs
adjacent to freeways.
• Approved a policy not to become
involved in tree and stump removal on
public boulevards.
• Approved a policy not to replace
private property survey irons which are
disturbed by construction activities
unless replacement is specified in a
contract.
• Approved a tax abatement for
Eagan Realty Inc.
• Approved renewing 1981 liquor,
wine and beer licenses. Council
member Mark Parranto abstained
from voting on renewing a liquor
license held by his father, Jean Parran-
to. Wachter voted against renewing
Parranto's license.
• Approved final payments for fire
stations one and three in the amount of
$28,546.47.
• Approved final payment for
Highline Bike Trail in the amount of
$3,132.11.
• Approved the hiring of Diane
Pieper as a landscape aide.
• Directed the staff to prepare
feasibility reports for the construction
of streets and utilities for Safari at
Eagan and Coachman Land Company
Second Addition.
• Directed the staff to prepare a
feasibility report for installing street
lights in the Timberline Addition.
• Approved final payment in the
amount of $4,086.50 for Eden Addi-
tion utilities.
• Directed the city attorney to
negotiate an easement with Vern Seuer
so that the Silver Bell Road:'Wuthering
Heights utility project could continue.
• Continued consideration of the
Cedarview plat until the Dec. 2 council
meeting.
• Tabled indefinitely consideration
of Industrial Revenue financing for
Carson Pirie Scott and Co.
• Approved the preliminary plat and
concept plan for Mari Acres Second
Addition.
• Continued consideration of
preliminary plat approval of Overhill
Farm Addition.
• Approved the Eagan 40 Limited
Planned Development. The develop-
ment is now planned to be a residential
area. It was originally zoned as com-
mercial and residential.
• Approved the preliminary plat for
Bicentenniel Sixth Addition for con-
structing an office building.
• Approved the waiver of plat for
Meadowland First Addition. The
waiver allows five duplex lots to be
divided for single ownership.
• Continued consideration of per-
mitting outside storage at Boyer Truck
and Equipment until the Dec. 2
meeting.
• Approved a conditional use permit
for carry -out food in Hilltop Estates.
Patricia Miler told the council she
plans to open a small pizza restaurant
at County Road 30 and Pilot Knob
Road.
• Set a public hearing for Dec. 16 to
consider S2,000,000 in tax-exempt
financing for E.L. Trucking Company.
• Continued a request to set a public
//-2 -3/e
storm sewers itiewo &)-
hearing to consider S5,500,000 in tax-
exempt financing for Pilot Knob
Associates. The money would be used
to finance a shopping facility east of
Pilot Knob Road and north of
Krestridge Lane. Since the area will
have to be rezoned before a public
hearing takes place, the council didn't
want to establish a date for the hearing
before the rezoning was approved.
Parranto said, "If we find out that the
neighborhood attitude is that they
don't want a shopping center, then
they won't get their I.R. (Industrial
Revenue) bonds." The Advisory Plan-
ning Commission will consider the
shopping center plans Nov. 25.
• Granted a building permit to
Robert and JoAnn Mueller, 871
Westcott Road. The Mueller's will be
building a house to replace the trailer
they are currently living in.
• Denied a request by Brittany
Estates to extend the assessment period
for streets and utilities from five to 10
years.
• Directed the staff to study alter-
natives to obtain an easement from Cy
Barry, 3760 Blackhawk Road. The
easement is needed before construction
on a storm sewer outlet for Blackhawk
Lake can begin.
• Authorized the appointment of
Blomquist to the State of Minnesota
Waste Management Board.
• Approved the remodeling plan for
a parking lot for the Rosemount VFW.
The VFW is located near the border
between the two cities. A portion of the
parking lot will be in Eagan.
.doommomplimar NE.
11-sv(d° 9
Burr Oak Pond storm sewers approved
br Linda Hanson
Rainwater run-off problems follow
close on the heels of development.
Developed land absorbs much less
water than land in its natural stale.
About two to three times more water
uns off land after it's developed. In
agan the excess water eventually finds
s way to one of the many small ponds
hat dot the landscape.
Burr Oak Pond near Highways 55
nd 149 is currently about four feet
over its normal level because of excess
run-off water. The pond has flooded
surrounding park and private proper-
ty. In some places the pond has risen to
cover as much as 100 feet of land along
the shoreline.
reduce the level of Burr Oak Pond to
solve the area's run-off problem was
unanimously approved by the Eagan
City Council Nov. 18.
The first part of the storm sewer
system will consist of a lift station near
a small pond bordering Highway 55. A
storm sewer will conduct water from
that pond to Burr Oak Pond.
Another small lift station will be
constructed at the western edge of Burr
Oak Pond. A storm sewer will allow
water to flow from Burr Oak Pond to
two ponds to the west which are about
10 feet below their normal water level.
Some residents who attended the
public hearing Nov, 18 were concerned
that Burr Oak Pond would he con -
storm sewer system, from Highway 55
to Burr Oak Pond. would cost approx-
imately S150,000. The second part.
from the western edge of Burr Oak
Pond to a western pond, would cost
about S191,500.
Most of the cost of the project would
be assessed to benefiting property
owners in the four -square -mile area
which drains into the ponds, Rosene
explained. He added that the state may
pick up a share of the cost, but that the
figures are still being negotiated.
Rosene said that single family home
Don't Wait 'till
Christmas...
Take advantage of
Diperna's Sale of the
Season with savings of
30% off everything
except watches.
Shop now and use our
convenient lay-by plan.
diperno
jewelers
OF BURNHAVEN MALL
Next to Target 435-8526
IIY///IW////////// I/l
COUNCIL: to p. 10
buy
30 oh off All Jewelry
watches excluding
ru Dec. 24, 1980
II three locations:
tle. Burnhaven Mall
/I//III///iAIL-
Ile
Jiffy
4-1 i 4,-0 ii)ftiL
Eagan
City Council
The following is the agenda for
the 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 5 city
council meeting held al the
Eagan Municipal Center, 3830
Pilot Knob Rd.
1.6:30 — Roll call and Pledge of
Allegiance
11.6:35 — Adopt agenda and ap-
proval of minutes
III. 6:40 — Department head
business
IV. 6:55 -- Consent agenda
a. Personnel items
b. Plumbers licenses
c. Gambling application, pull -
tabs, for Camp New Hope Inc. at
Eagan Tap Inc.
V. 7 p.m. — Public hearings
a. Final assessment hearing for
Project 454, Blackhawk Glen
streets and utilities
b. Public hearing for the vaca-
tion of utility easements. Norwest
second addition
c. Final assessment hearing for
Project 432. Royal Oak Circle —
streets and utilities
d. Final assessment hearing for
Project 462. Windtree fifth and
sixth additions streets and
utilities
e. Final assessment hearing for
Project 459, Brittany ninth addi-
tion — streets and utilities
VI. Old business
V11. New business
a Liquor license application —
Compri Hotel, southeast
quadrant of Pilot Knob Road and
Interstate 494. NW 1/4 Section 3
b. Waiver of plat, Stephen
Wensm8n, to shift a property line
between Lot 10 and 11, Block 2, of
Mallard Park third addition
located in the NE 1/4 of Secton 29
on Drake Drive
c. Rezoning (Pond View -
Molinaro and Associates) of ap-
proximately 30 acres from A
( agricultural) and PD ( planned
development) to commercial and
mixed residential planned
development located in the east
1/2 of Section 16, abutting Duck -
wood Drive to the north and Pilot
Knob Road to the east
Britian
d. Rezoning Y 10th
addition -Brittany Estates Co.) of
17.5 acres from A ( agriculture )
to an R-1 ( single-family residen-
tial) district and preliminary plat
of 31 lots along Covington Lane
just east of Beacon Hill Road in
the northeast 1/4 of Section 33
e. Preliminary plat (Cliff Road
Shoppes-Western Commercial
Properties Inc.) consisting of one
lot containing a 73,115-square-
foot shopping center on a
7.88-acre NB (neighborhood
business) district within the
Winkler Jackson Planned
Development located west of
Slater Road in the northwest 1/4
of Section :31
f. Conditional use permit
(Thomas Lake Center-Linvill
Properties inc.) for a pylon sign
in Lots 1-4, Block 1 in Safari at
Eagan located on the north side
of Cliff Road and west of Thomas
Lake Road in the southwest 114 of
Section 25
g Rezoning Laurent addition
Armand Laurent ) of approx-
imately 4.5 acres from A (agri-
cultural) to R-1 (single-family)
and a preliminary plat consisting
of two lots on approximately 4.5
acres located in the NW 1/2 of
Section 25 south of Golden
Meadow Road
h. Rezoning ( Eveland addition
Bert Eveland) of 4.5 A (agri-
cultural) acres to a 1.5 acre P.F.
(public facilities) district for a
fire station. three acres to an R-1
+ single-family) district and a pre-
liminary plat for the Eveland ad-
dition located on the NW 1/4 of
Section 25 at the southeast in-
tersection of Dodd and Diffley
roads
i. Rezoning (R and B addition
Leroy Rother and Gerald
Braun ) of 2.08 acres from R-4
( multiple) to CSC ( community
shopping center ). a Comprehen-
sive Guide Plan Amendment. and
a preliminary plat consisting of
one lot located in the NW 1/4 of
Section 15 north of Crestridge
Lane and south of Duckwood
Drive
j. Preliminary plat ( Blue Ridge
addition — L.A. Laukka Develop-
ment) of Outlots E and F of the
Lone Oak addition into a 9.8 lot
for an office/showroom and two
outlots containing 37.25 acres
located in the SW 1/4 of Section 1
abutting Highway 55 on the west
and Lone Oak Road on the south
k. Environmental Assessment
Worksheet for Bridle Ridge and
Slone Ridge additions, south of
Wescott Road and west of Dodd
Road
I. Environmental Assessment
Worksheet for Stafford Place.
north of County Road 30 and east
of Northview Elementary School
m. Building permit for an addi-
tion to property at Gopher Smelt-
ing located at 3385 Hwy. 49
n. Bridle Ridge addition, revis-
ed site plan
o. Waiver of plat ( Andrew R.
Chase) for duplex lot split for
Lots 1 and 2, Block 2, Oakwood
Heights second addition
VIII. Additional items
a. Public Improvement con•
tracts:
1. Contract 87-12, receive
bids/award contract ) Lexington
Square sixth addition — North•
view Park Road)
2. Contract 87-14, receive
bids/award contract 'Eagan
HilLs Farms/Country Hollow —
trunk sanitary lift station)
b. Street name change — Safari
Boulevard
IX. Visitors to be heard I for
those persons not on the agenda )
X. Adjournment
Gun Club
Lake WMO
The following is the agenda for
the 4:30 p.m. Monday, May 4 Gun
Club Lake Watershed Manage-
ment Organization meeting held
at the Eagan Municipal Center,
3830 Pilot Knob Rd.
Adopt agenda
Review and approve minutes
Treasurer's report and ap-
prove bills
New business
1. Management plan status
report (Discuss management
issues'
2. Review draft responses
regarding Lower Minnesota
River Watershed District's draft
management plan
3. Status report on county
preparation of geological atlas
for groundwater aquifier inven-
tory
4. Report on recent watershed
management planning seminar
Other
Adjournment
Comm
Dakota/Scott
7/-Zc/—fig'
Opening of store
in Eagan center
stirs traffic fears
Target due in February,
followed by 30 others
By Jim Adams
Staff Writer
Bright yellow banners snap in the
breeze over Cub Foods, the just -
opened anchor store in Eagan's long-
awaited and bitterly contested new
shopping center.
A Target store, near Cub, is to open
in February, followed by Cliff Lake
Galleria's 30 retail stores between the
two anchor stores.
No one argues that Eagan doesn't
need the shopping center, but hun-
dreds of residents opposed the Gal-
lena's location at Rahn and Cliff
Lake Roads, between Interstate Hwy.
35E and Hwy. 77 (Cedar ay.)
Developers spent millions of dollars
doing studies and lobbying to win
City Council approval for one of
three shopping centers proposed for
Fagan. The S25 million Gallena won,
prompting the two losing landowners
to sue Eagan for not granting their
rezoning requests. One suit was set-
tled; the other is pending.
Residents who opposed the develop-
ment are waiting to see what will
happen to the traffic after the center
is in full operation. Among them is
tt
hele M. Swanson. who led a
boyhood group than last year
med Galleria's traffic would en-
ger children attending Rahn Ele-
ary School, across a field from
the Cub
From her house, she can see Cub,
with its parking lot packed with vehi-
cles_ Despite that. traffic on Rahn
Rd. isn't bad so far. Swanson said.
"1'm afraid that will change when
Target opens." she said.
The site controversy was a major
issue in last year's elections. Four -
term Mayor Bea Blomquist, who
allippened the law
was unseated by
City ('ouncil Member Vic Ellison,
who opposed it.
Council Member James Smith, an-
other supporter of the site, also was
defeated Blomquist and Smith were
part of a council majority that ap-
proved Gallena plans before they left
ofrtce in January I98
In January, Ellison ushered in a new
council majority that thought the
shopping center should be built
about a mile northwest near Diffley
Road and Hwy. 77. The new council
Wined stricter conditions on Gat-
lena's developers, Ryan Construc-
tion and Hoffman Development
Group. but was unable to reverse the
lance -duck council's approval of the
site.
"Once the developer is given devel-
opment rights. you can't take it way
from him without paying penalties,"
Ellison said. The Cub and Target are
quality stores, "but a lot of us contin-
ue to believe Diffley would have
been a far better location," he said.
Cub is the first supermarket in Min-
nesota to have a bank. open every
day. in the store, said manager Craig
Streich.
The store, with nearly 300 workers,
offers fresh seafood flown daily from
the coasts, chef -prepared marinated
foods, French tones and a large fro-
zen food section to cater to families
looking for quick meals, Streich said.
Its 18 aisles carry everything from
caviar to corn dogs.
Outside Cub and Target. most of
about 300 mature oaks standing a
year ago are gone. They were cut and
burned during clearing and leveling
of the rolling, heavily wooded site
last spring.
"Basically, that site was raped. It's
unfortunate, but life goes on," Ellison
said.
Patrick Hoffman, president of Hoff-
man Development, noted that al-
most 90 mature trees were saved_
"We saved what we said we would. It
was inevitable that trees would come
down. The center has more landscap-
ing than anything now in Eagan."
Hoffman said.
That is because the new council last
January threatened to stop the Gal-
leria on environmental grounds.
"The developer had the choice of
acceding to our desires ur refusing
and taking us to court," Ellison said.
Hoffman compromised and agreed to
provide about 10 acres of green space
on the 33-acre site, reduce retail
space by about 15,000 square feet to
263,00 square feet and eliminate 75
parking spaces and a restaurant.
As expected. Ellison said, traffic on
Cliff Road "is bad and will get
worse." The city will hays to make
major street improvements to handle
the traffic Cub and Target will gener-
ate, but the developers have agreed
to pay their share, he said.
it.
WEISE. Kurt and Kriaty, 13021 Finch Way. Appall
WE
V
ST , Micheal and Jean. 17520 Iceeend Coun,
Lakeville
Deaths
AS2MANN. Pater, M. 1445 6th Ay. S., Sough St. Paul.
BAUCH. Leo. 739 661 Ar. 5.. Saudi St Paul.
CARLSON. Gres, 89. 2000 Oableb Av., West S1
Paul
FEL IX. Peter. 84, 2000 Oakda s Av . West St. Peal
GIGUERE. Lawrence, 72, 106 E Spruce St. South Si
Paul
HAVEN. Ginn. 98. 930 W. 16th St . Hasernge.
JENKS. Vern. 89, 930 W 16th 5t . Hastings
LOESCH. Catharine. 73, 2000 Oakdale Ay.. West Si
Paul
MERRIER. Water. 74. 100 Douglas St, South St
Paul
MILLER. Walter, 50, 1225 S. 6M St., Mnn+eepoiis
NELSON. AMP. es. 256 W8Melr Dr.. West St. NW
RAHN, Auld, 66. 4303 Dodd Rd., Eagan.
ROESSLER. Walter. M, 436 E Bement. , West St
Paul
SCI•ILAFLE. John. wedgewocd Cara Center. West
54 Peul.
SIMENSEN. Agnes, 82, 2918 Baldry Av., Eau Clays,
Wis
UHL, Emma, 85. 417 Man St . Farmington.
VOLLMERS. Dorothy, 96, 2250 Awful St.. Mordent
Heights
Dissolutions
ANDERSON. Kenneth and Shiny.
BAKA. Dane and Gregory.
LEMPKE. Mary arnl Dan d.
LINCOLN, Mary ad Robert
LOCKLIIG, BOA eid Nan
LYNCH, Werrw4 and soy&
MARIST11EN,1`itneel aid aingebreg-
MATHIMARTINMI, EL KearWs 4 DOuendEunla
MCFARLANE. Stephanie and Ode.
MCQMMt, Lin rid Sawn
MCNURLAN. Olin and NL
MOEN, Jerrold and DlAahe.
MOWER, Ronnie Intl Gnaw
NIELSEN. Jennie end I1111Cy.
NIEMAN. Myrtle ald AMC
o'DONNELL, Michael and Cad.
PARE E NE. untie led 6i00ee.
PAULTDO, Rupert 6146 NIwM1.
REED, Ronald and Vidal.
RETZLAFF. tlleten ehd !ltharwh.
RIVARO. Karp Mid DpIW.
SIEBEN. INCAS and Thome.
SIEBEN. Terrence end Jacqueline.
TAR. Suzanne rid Looms.
THIGPEN, Jade end Carey.
THOMPSON. $4dl rid Michele.
TURCOTTE. Dorothy led gene.
WACHTER. Theodore end Lemr-
WAGNER. Dennis end Patricia.
WARING. Mary Mel Direst
WHEELER, Komberly end Soon.
WINSTON, Nene, end Scott
ZACHARIAS, JIrdlh and Zee..
Groups can hear Zoo Speakers' Bureau
The Minnesota Loo's Speakers' Bu- that discuss the zoo's day-to-day
reau is available for clubs, organize- functions. 10-year history and its
lions and schools in the metropolitan programs. For more information call
area. 431-9234.
The Speakers' Bureau has slide
shows, narrated by zoo volunteers,
,Weddings e 9lnniwrsaries
Brown -Leighton
Mr and Mrs. Ronald W Brown, New
Hope, announce the engagement of
their daughter. Wendy Catherine, to
Daniel Joseph Leighton. son of Dr. and
Mrs John L. Leighton, Plymouth.
A December wedding is planned.
Cooper-Satek
Mr and Mrs. Silas Cooper of Mound
announce the engagement of their
daughter. Pamela Jo. to Bruce William
Satek, son o1 Mr. and Mrs. Louis
Hackbarth of Columbia Heights. The
wedding will take place Dec. 3 at SI.
Johns Lutheran Church in Mound.
Erickson-Taketomo
Rev. and Mrs Erling Erickson of
Canton, South Dakota announce the
Gerllcher-Olson
Dr and Mrs. Robert GerliCher,
Excelsior, announce the erg6igemirM of
their daughter, Susan FFllii •bath tO
Richard James Olson. son of Mr. and
Mrs William R. Olson of Rochester, MN.
Ms. Gerlicher is employed with
Northwest Airlines and her fiance is a
student at William Mitchell College of
Law A June wedding is planned.
Moody -Becker
Mr Erling Moody, Coon Rapids,
announces the engagement of his
daughter, Janet Elizabeth to Thomas
William Becker, son of Mr. and MrS.
Donald Becker, SI. Paul. An April 29th
wedding is planned.
Overlin-Todd
Angela M Overlin, daughter of Mr. and
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on
Developers disagree issue
rezoning
By CHRISTY CLAPP
Commercial land — those who
don't have it want it, and those
who have it don't want others to
get it.
The Eagan City Council and the
Advisory Planning Commission
held a joint meeting Sept. 25 to
listen to the pleas of developers,
landowners and residents concer-
ning the revamping of the com-
prehensive guide plan. The plan
offers suggested uses of land in
the city and guidelines for
development.
The council has made it dear
that it feels there is plenty of
commercially zoned land in the
city and that developers should
look at land already zoned com-
mercial before requesting re-
zoning.
One of the developers attempt-
ing an uphill battle for rezoning is
Thorson Cornwell Klohs Co. The
company presented a plan for a
multi -use commercial center
called 35E-Diffley Center. The
company, made up of Roland
Cornwell, Hugh Thorson and
Dennis Klohs, has a site plan
drawn up for the northeast corner
of Diffley Road and Interstate
35E.
The 94.8-acre site is zoned
single-family and multi -family
residential. The 735,000 square
feet would contain retail space, a
recreational facility, professional
space and a public dedication
parcel. The developers have sign-
ed commitments from Dayton -
Hudson for a 102,000`square-foot
Target store and from Northwest
Racquet and Swim Club for a
170,000-square-foot facility, ac-
cording to Klohs.
Peter Jarvis, the developer's
representative, made a presenta-
tion to the council and commis-
sion. He said the location was
ideal for commercial use. "I'm
not here to knock down 20 years
of plowing, but there have been
some changes in Eagan. The
larger issue is •• considering the
evolution of Eagan - does this
concept make sense at the site?
Zoning does not make commer-
cial development happen, but it
can preclude it from happening,"
Jarvis said.
Don Carol from Target said,
"Diffley Center puts us in the
center of the population trade
area. if we move it we would be
stealing business from another
Target) store." He said the com-
pany estimated that 70 percent of
its sales would come from the
surrounding residential areas,
such as the Cedar Grove and
Thomas Lake neighborhoods.
Target had considered other
sites in Eagan, but found the Dif-
fley location to be superior for its
use, Carol said.
"Is Target's maximum profit a
city goal?" developer Jim Curry
asked. He opposed rezoning for
the project. "Target wants the
spot more than Eagan needs
Target. All the major companies
want stores here. If they can't get
one spot, they'll get another, 1
believe Target will be here: it's
just a matter of where.
"Everyone of every conse-
quence wants to be here. Don't
think you're going to be left out in
the shuffle," Curry said to the
council. "I don't think we're in
some kind of race to see who can
get XYZ company first. The ques-
tion is - Do we have enough com•
mercial? And I think we do."
Curry owns a 194-acre commer-
cial parcel, what he called the
largest piece of commercial land
in the city. Curry is developing
Eagan Convenience Center at the
southeast corner of Lexington
Avenue and Diffley Road. "Peo-
ple have asked, 'Why haven't we
got major shopping areas here?'
Well, were just reaching that
point now."
Martin Colon of Federal Land
Co-, the developer of Town Cen-
tre, also objects to zoning
changes. "It's unfair to owners of
commercial land, who've paid
commercial taxes, to rezone
from residential to commercial.
Changes in zoning can break
down the highway system,
violate state guidelines and
create other problems for the
city. The design and planning of
the roads is consistent with the
comprehensive guide plan."
Harold Sheff, an attorney for
Robert and Grace O'Neil, re-
quested rezoning for the 102-acre
O'Neil parcel to commercial at
Yankee Doodle Road and 1-35E. A
1985 rezoning denial by the coun-
cil resulted in the filing of an $8.7
million lawsuit against the city.
The council and commission
also had reservations about
rezoning the 35E-Diffley. Center
parcel. Among them was the
ability of Diffley Road to handle
the traffic that such a center
would create.
"Diffley is maximized and it's
a substandard road. It cannot
carry more traffic that it does
now," Mayor Bea Blomquist
said.
Council Member Vic Ellison
had concerns about traffic travel-
ing through the Cedar Grove area
to get to the center.
Another joint council and com-
mission meeting to discuss the
comprehensive guide plan is set
for 7 p.m. Monday, Oct. 27 at the
Municipal Center. A public hear-
ing on the plan will be in Novem-
ber,
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COMPLETE DRY CLEANING AND LAUNDRY SERVICE
CURRENT COUPON SPECIALS AND DISCOUNTS DO NOT APPLY TO THESE SPECIALS
Monday -Friday 7:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M.
Saturday 8:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M.
1288 TOWN CENTRE DRIVE
452-3294
4
1
2A SEPTEMBER29; 1986 TNISWEFK
City to appeal
court order to
OK townhouses
By CHRISTY CLAPP
The Eagan City Council will ap-
peal a court order requiring the
city to grant preliminary plat ap-
proval for a townhouse develop-
ment.
Dakota County District Court
Judge John Goggins ordered a
peremptory writ of mandamus
March 2 that called for the ap-
proval of Johnny Cake Ridge fifth
addition for Good Value Homes.
While legal counsel Paul Hauge
acknowledged that the chances of
having the ruling overturned are
"probably not very good." the
council decided March 17 to make
an appeal.
The city will be making a mo-
tion in district court on March 31
for a stay of the order until the ci-
ty has a chance to make a full ap-
peal. which is about six months.
The order now calls for the city to
comply and submit written
evidence of compliance on or by
March 31.
The city denied the application
last September after the Ad-
visory Planning Commission
recommended denial. The parcel
in question was sold to Good
Value a couple of years ago by
Orrin Thompson Homes. Orrin
Thompson was granted approval
in 19134 of Johnny Cake Ridge
fourth addition. The proposed
fifth addition is located on an
outlot of the fourth addition. The
plat in question consists of three
four -unit buildings.
The reasons cited by the city
for denial are as follows:
•The planning commission re-
commended denial.
Appeal
See p. 8A
rrff
336/g - 7 }"-k
Appea! ......................
(continued from front)
•The density of the entire pro-
ject would increase.
•Soil conditions affect the
drainage and building suitability.
*Aesthetics.
•No utility services were
available.
•Representations by Orrin
Thompson indicated that the area
would not be developed in that
manner and would remain an
association common area.
The judge's order states that
because the council cited no in-
stances of non-compliance with
city zoning or platting or-
dinances, and since the plat com•
plies with city ordinances and
state laws, approval must be
granted.
"In denying approval of the
preliminary plat of Johnny Cake
Ridge fifth addition. the city of
Eagan has acted in an arbitrary
and capricious manner, contrary
to its own ordinances and the
laws of the state of Minnesota."
the mandamus read.
Hauge reported to the council
that he tried to argue in court that
the development contract in 1979
with Orrin Thompson reflected
150 townhouse units, not in-
cluding the 12 new Good Value
Home units.
Good Value Homes, one of the
largest builders in the
metropolitan area. has its main
office in Blaine. According to
Richard Beeps, an attorney for
God Value, this is the first time
the company has entered into a
lawsuit against a city. He stated
he is "very confident" that the
appeal will not be successful.
"The issue is whether or not the
city is going to follow the laws
that it writes itself. I'm astound-
ed at what they're doing," Reens
said.
At the council meeting. the city
council asked John Peterson, who
represented Good Value, if the
company would consider reduc-
ing the number of units from 1210
eight. Peterson indicated it would
not.
"When a developer comes in
and makes an agreement it ought
to be abided by. I'm very much
appalled by your arrogant at-
titude. We made an agreement
with the other developer," Mayor
Bea Blomquisl said.
Council Member Tom Egan
said the issue was a question of
reliance. "We have a right. if not
a duty, to uphold this (150-unit
development contract t."
Council Member Jim Smith
said the appeal was "worth a
shot." Council Member Ted
Wachter agreed and made the
motion for an appeal.
THIS WEEK
NEWSPAPERS
Volume 8, No. 5 March 30, 1987
Three Sections
Section A
City sued by
developers of
Diffley Center
By CHRISTY CLAPP
A lawsuit was filed March 26
against the city of Eagan calling
for rezoning of land that would
allow for a Target store and other
retail development, which was
denied Feb. 3 by the city council.
The Bieter Co. vs. the city of
Eagan suit also calls for damages
in excess of S50.000.
The S50 million 35E/Diffley
Center project proposed the dis-
count store, a health club and a
735,000-square-foot shopping
center to be located on 91 acres on
the northeast quadrant of Inter-
state 35E and Diffley Road. The
council voted 4-1 to deny the pro-
ject and rezoning. with Council
Member Vic Ellison taking the
affirmative.
The suit alleged that the city
'had misled and encouraged
Bieter to make the application at.
substantial cost even though the
city had already decided against
the project, according to Michael
Bress, the plaintiff's attorney.
Eagan Mayor Bea Blomquist
called the allegation "absolutely
false.-'
The suit also charges that the
actions by the council were in-
verse condemnation, meaning
that the property wasn't literally
condemned or taken by the city
but the effect is as if part of the
property was taken, Bress said.
And the denial of a comprehen-
sive guide plan change, rezoning
from agricultural to commercial
use, and a preliminary plat was
called unreasonable, arbitrary
and capricious in the lawsuit, ac-
cording to Bress. That wording
was dismissed as legal jargon by
Blomquist who said, "That's
something that's used when they
don't have anything else to say."
A public hearing for the project
was held last November, which
divided the community into two
mops: those living near the
area for the proposed center who
strongly and vocally opposed it,
and others in the community who
supported a project of such
magnitude in the city. The meet-
ing was continued to Jan. 27 to
give city staff a chance to gather
more information on the impact
of such a project. The Advisory
Planning Commission voted6-1 to
recommend denial to the city
council.
The suit was filed in Dakota
County District Court.
Eagan council votes to
negotiate with Naegele
By BETTY McMAHON
Staff Writer
EAGAN - Action to move the
Naegele advertising sign on
Cedar Ave. near the River Hills
Ninth Addition took a couple of
turns at the Tuesday, Jan. 4, city
council meeting.
From past meetings, it seemed
the council had decided the sign
was in violation of the city's sign
ordinance. The sign is 71 feet high
from the roadbed and 53 feet high
from the base. The city ordinance
specifies 40 feet, but the council
has not been sure where to begin
counting the 40 feet - From the
roadbed, or the base of the sign.
In a Dec. 21 meeting, Paul
Hauge, city attorney, said the or-
dinance was "fairly clear." He
said the city interprets it to mean
that a sign may be 40 feet high
from the adjacent roadbed if the
roadbed is higher than the land
where the sign is located. If the
Land is higher, the 40 feet may be
measured from the base of the
sign.
Hauge said, at the Dec. 21
meeting, "Whichever one you
take, they ( Naegele) certainly do
exceed the ordinance require-
ment."
With that meeting as a
background, City Administrator
Tom Hedges opened the discus-
sion Tuesday by saying, "It is the
city's position that the sign is
located incorrectly. My under-
standing is they are going to at-
tempt to meet with the owner of
the property to see if any changes
in site location can be made."
Hedges said the city's inter-
pretation of the ordinance in ef-
fect in September was that the 40
feet should be measured from the
roadbed.
Mayor Bea Blomquist said, "If
the motion ( from an earlier
meeting) said 40 feet from the
roadbed, I think that is very
clear. "
"The revised ordinance should
reflect that intention," said
Hauge.
Council member Ted Wachter
made a motion that "since the
sign is in direct violation, it has to
be corrected." His motion
stipulated that the company
move the sign so it is in com-
pliance with the ordinance. Blom-
quist seconded the motion.
Council member Jim Smith
then spoke up, "I don't think it's
reasonable," he said. "It (the
sign) should be measured at the
level of the land, not from the
roadbed. I don't like the way the
ordinance has been interpreted
and I don't think it's correct. I
don't think it's roadway in all
cases."
Council member Thomas Egan
agreed, "It may be based on the
topography as well."
Julianne Bye, representing
Naegele, said, "If the council is
going to interpret the ordinance
for individual conditions, it
should have been done before we
erected the sign."
Paul Teske, a neighborhood
resident, said, "You voted on the
ninth that it was not in com-
pliance. I can't tolerate your be-
ing wishy-washy now."
A vote was taken on Wachter's
motion, and failed when Smith,
Egan and Thomas voted against
it.
Smith said, "Naegele won't
take things lying down. They will
take it to court and we will lose
because we issued the permit. We
can't say now that it was wrong I
think we should now decide what
would be acctptable."
He made a motion to continue
negotiating to resolve the current
dilemma and ask the city staff to
! decide how to handle future pro-
blems.
Egan said that since the former
vote on interpretation of the or-
dinance, he had "developed a bet-
ter understanding of the or-
dinance."
He said, "I prefer the sign be
removed and relocated. If it can-
not be, I would like the sign to be
in compliance with the city or-
dinance, within 40 feet of the level
of the berm of Cedar Ave. at its
current location." (This would
lower the sign eight feet.)
Smith added, "I think more can
be done by working with people
than by going to court"
Smith's motion was called to a
vote and passed unanimously.
Resident Mary Teske asked
that the ordinance be republished
as the language had been chang-
ed since the original publication.
Smith responded, "I think we'll
leave that up to our lawyer, not to
you. Now, let's move this thing
along."
The council moved on to the
next item.
IN OTHER ACTION, THE
COUNCIL:
CONTINUED a decision to ap-
prove or deny a special permit to
Comsery Corp. to allow the in-
stallation of a 200 GPM private
water well system.
AGREED to request Mn/DOT
to prepare a cost participation
agreement pertaining to the
upgrading of Deerwood Dr. and
the acquisition of the related
rights -of -way and/or temporary
easements.
CONTINUED a decision on the
waiver of plat application by
Lentsch Realtors until the Jan. 18
council meeting.
APPROVED final payment for
Contract 81-15 to Northdale Con-
struction Co. for 814,179.15 and
accepted perpetual maintenance.
HEARD report of progress on
new city hall. Several changcs
have to be made from the original
plans.
City Council news
Eat a rJ C h r- o t,J c (-C
Eagan Council to present proposed
1984 budget to public September 20
by David Siegel
The Eagan City Council will
present its proposed 1984
budget to the public at its
regular meeting Tuesday.
Final action on the budget
isn't expected until the Oct. 4
meeting.
It's difficult to determine the
effect of the proposed budget
on property taxes, the Dakota
County Assessors Office said.
The city, school,
Metropolitan Council, mos-
quito control, transit district
and Dakota County all levy a
share of property taxes, and
final figures for all of them
won't be available until
November or December, ac-
cording to the assessors office.
The city budget projects ex-
penses of S4,375,580 in the
general fund, up $642,630, or
about 17 percent, from the
1983 budget of S3,732,950.
The largest increases are in
the areas of police, protective
inspections, public works and
engineering, parks and recrea-
tion, streets and'highways.
Under the budget, Police
Department expenditures will
increase $145,720, protective
inspections, $50,220, public
works and engineering,
$78,300, parks and recreation,
S54,900 and streets and
highways, $83,310.
City Administrator Tom
Hedges said the public hearing
is designed to give the public a
chance to tell the council areas
of concern. "This is a chance
to say what they want and
don't want," he said.
Last year, the, county
assessors office re-evaluated
the market value of property in
Eagan. As a result of the city's
development, property values
in general increased. For exam-
ple, a home that had been
valued at S65,000 for tax pur-
poses will probably increase to
about S76,000 for tax purposes
this year, according to the
assessor's office.
Even if no governmental
bodies raise their budgets, the
increased valuation of Eagan
alone probably would result in
increased taxes, the assessor's
office said.
The assessor's office has
roughly valued all the property
in Eagan at $217,720,684. That
figure is used to calculate the
mill rate for Eagan. Using that
estimate, Hedges has estimated
the mill rate will be about
17.89, up from 17.14 last year.
if the mill rates for all the
other governmental bodies re-
main the same as last year, and
using the city's new estimated
mill rate on a home in School
District 191 that had been
valued at $65,000 but now is
valued at S76,000 (due to the
reassessment of Eagan), pro-
perty taxes would increase
from S753 to S 1,002.
If that home were in School
District 196, taxes would in-
crease from S652 to S884, ac-
cording to estimates by the
county assessor's office.
Most of the tax increase can
be attributed to Eagan's pro-
perty reassessment, not to the
slight increase in the city's mill
rate as a result of the city's pro-
posed budget, the assessor's
office said.
County names councils to oversee jobs p
by Dorothy Casserly
Private industry councils to
oversee job training programs
in Dakota County and in a
four -county consortium were
appointed Tuesday by county
commissioners.
Percy Zachary, Dakota
County job training program
director, was appointed ad-
ministrator of the four -county
program. 1t has received a S1.6
million federal grant to spend
on job training in the next nine
months.
Twenty people were named
to the private industry council
to oversee operation of job
training programs in Dakota
County. Five of them are to
represent Dakota County in
the consortium service delivery
area that includes Anoka and
Washington counties and
Ramsey County excluding St.
Paul.
Dakota County had appeal-
ed Gov. Rudy Perpich's place-
ment of it with the other coun-
ties, claiming it has enough
through the Job Training Part-
nership Act, the program that
replaces CETA Oct. 1.
"We'll use employment
training facilities in all the skill
centers in the metropolitan
area," Zachary said. These in-
clude any of the vocational -
technical schools that offer
courses appropriate for a par-
ticular student. On-the-job
training will also be coordi-
nated through the program.
Function of the private in-
dustry council (PIC) for the
four counties will be to put
together a consolidated plan
for the service delivery area. 1t
is to advise and must approve
all plans, Zachery said.
Friday morning the PIC
ratified Zachery's plan for the
first nine months of the pro-
gram so it can meet the state's
Sept. 21 deadline and receive
state certification.
The local PIC will be
developing a plan for job train-
ing in Dakota County.
The County Board received
39 nominations to the council,
son; Verna Larson of West St.
Paul, a supervisor for Farmers
Union Cooperative Oil
Association;
Sharon LaComb of Apple
Valley, owner of Sharden, a
television production firm;
Myrna Sens of Rosemount,
owner of a sports store; David
Olson of Burnsville, executive
director of the Burnsville
Chamber of Commerce;
Marilyn Buckingham of
Burnsville, associate dean at
Inver Hills Community Col-
lege; Stanley Fedoruk of Apple
Valley, a member of the Burns-
ville Education Association;
Lee Koskela of Hastings,
representing vocational
rehabilitation industries;
Lee Zechmann of Apple
Valley, personnel manager of
Brockway Inc.; Claire Falls of
Castle Rock, representing
organized labor; Robert
Johnson of Lakeville, ex-
ecutive director of Minnesota
Good Roads; John Dorsey of
West St. Paul, vice president of
Signal Hills Bank.
State guidelines required
that appointees to the PIC
represent various groups. A
majority, or 11, had to come
from private industry, and half
of those had to work in small
Finishing touches to Eag
put it $38,000 over budget
by Dorothy Casserly
Dakota County Library
building fund account are not
sufficient to cov
widening plan fails
Dakota County Road 30
A proposal to widen Dakota
County Road 30 in Eagan failed
to get City Council approval last
week.
Instead, council members told
County Engineer Robert San-
deen to do new traffic studies
and collect other data to deter-
mine if the estimated $700,000
project is necessary.
"There are too many questions
and not enough answers," de-
clared Mayor Bea Blomquist.
Citizen Royce McKinnon of
2090 County Road 30 asked San-
deen why he wanted to widen the
road from two to four lanes.
Sandeen replied that traffic
studies show a need for the
project in the southwest part of
the city. Sandeen also said the
project is needed for the devel-
opment of the city and as a link
between the six -lane Highway 77
on the city's western border and
an interchange to be built in
" at County Road 30 and
Eagan
Interstate 35E.
The one -mile
run from Nicols
of Highway 77,
Road, just west
interchange.
Of the construction options,
one is to build a 68-foot-wide
road with four lanes and two
parking lanes. A second option is
to build a 52-foot-wide, four -lane
road with openings onto a front-
age road. A third is to build a 52-
foot-wide, four lane road with
frontage road openings only to
main streets connecting to Coun-
ty Road 30.
"I don't like any of the op-
tions," said citizen Kathy Shaffer
of 2002 County Road 30. "I would
like a 44-foot-wide, two-lane
road.'
Shaffer also warned that the
option with frontage road open-
ings onto County Road 30 would
result in "a demolition derby."
She asked, "Let's not make
that a big thoroughfare because
there are people who live there.'
Jan Gaub, of 2008 County
Road 30, claimed that Sandeen's
previous traffic studies were
outdated. She said those studies
took place when County Road 30
carried. extraordinary traffic
due to other major road con-
3truction projects in the area.
Earl Webb of 2062 County
Road 30 said, "I'd like the city to
buy my house because the four -
lane is going through."
Webb insisted that a four -lane
road would draw more traffic
and endanger neighborhood chil-
dren who cross the road to play
in the park by Cedar Pond.
Councilman Ted Wachter said
a four-way stoplight may be re-
quired at County Road 30 and
project would
Road, just east
to Blackhawk
of the planned
Blackhawk Road to protect
pedestrians.
Attorney David C. Sellergren
complained that proposed
project assessments are too
steep for his client. Cliff Road
Properties, which has land along
County Road 30_
According to City Engineer
Thomas Colbert, plans call for
the project to be financed 55 per-
cent by the county and 45 per-
cent by the city. Assessments
could range from $670 to $1,716
on an average residential prop-
erty, depending upon which op-
tion is chosen and if concrete
curbs and gutters are built.
A 10-year levy schedule shows
the first year's assessment at be-
tween $134 and $343, depending
upon options. and declining to
between $73 and $188 in the loth
year.
If the council eventually ap-
proves the project, Sandeen said
he could let a contract this year. 1
City Hall plans on council agenda
1 he Eagan City Council meets at 6:30
p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 15, at City Hall.
The agenda is as follows:
I. Roll call and pledge of allegiance
11. Adopt agenda and approval of minutes
III. Department head business
A. Fire Department
B. Police Department
C. Park Department
D. Public Works Department
IV. Consent hems (one motion approves all items)
A. Wilson O'Grady (St- John Neumann
Church) for a temporary non intoxicating malt li-
quor license for March 25
13. Approve MnDOT plans, T.H. 55 turning
lanes (east of T.H. 149)
C. Resolution authorizing paticipation in the
Minnesota Police Recruitment System
V. 7 p.m. Public hearings
A. Project 3(+7 (South Rahn Road -sidewalks)
B. Project 370 (Dakota County Plat 1 -streets
and utilities)
VI. Old business
A. Consideration of a trapping ordinance
B. Cedar Elementary School/driving school re-
quest
C. Reliance Builder, Dan Rogrud, for a
preliminary plat, Fish Lake Addition, consisting
of approximately 1.28 acres located on Outlot B,
Pilot Knob Heights 4th Addition in Section 15
D. Final plat for Sheffield Addition
VII. New business
A. Houston Construction Inc., John Houston,
for preliminary plat of Oak Chase 5th Addition,
containing approximately 12.48 acres described
as Lot 1, Block 3, and Lot 2, Block 3, Oak Chase
1st Addition and part of the W'/ of the SE'/ of
Section 27 (known as Oak Chase 5th Addition)
B. Final plat for Dakota County Plat 1
VIII. Additional items
A. Cable Television Commission update
B. Electrical permit fee schedule update
C. City Hall plans
D. Contract 82-2, final payment acceptance
(Briarhill 4th - streets and utilities)
IX. Visitors to be heard (for those persons not on
the agenda)
X. Adjournment
bcrki
Eagan open
by Linda Hanson
Two Eagan council members and one
former council member have been in
court recently to defend themselves
against charges that they violated the
open meeting law four years ago.
The lawsuit against Councilmembers
Jim Smith and Tom Egan, and former
Councilmember Mark Parranto was fil-
ed about two years ago by Paul Taylor,
an Apple Valley law student who
previously lived in Eagan. Taylor ran
for election to the Eagan City Council
in 1979 and lost to Smith and Ted
Wachter.
case goes to trial
meeting law
County Court Judge Gerald Kalina is
hearing the case.
Taylor alleges that Smith and Parran-
to violated the open meeting law at five
luncheon meetings in January and
February of 1979.
At those meetings Smith and Parran-
to, the council's Finance Committee,
met with fiscal consultants to explore
whether the city should sell tax-exempt
bonds to finance a below -market in-
terest rate home mortgage program.
The council had directed the Finance
Committee to meet with consultants to
see if the program was feasible. The
council needed to decide quickly
whether it wanted to participate in the
program because legislation was pen-
ding which might have eliminated such
programs.
Two of the meetings were at the St.
Paul Athletic Club, two were at the
Decathalon Club in Bloomington, and
one was at Forepaugh's Restaurant in
St. Paul.
Taylor contends that since the
meetings were outside the city, they
violate the open meeting law. He also
contends that the public was not given
adequate notice of the meetings.
City Administrator Tom Hedges
testified that he wrote the meeting
notices on the city's monthly calendar
of events, which is posted at City Hall.
He added that he believed this to be all
that was required by statute. 1.1")
Taylor also alleges that Smith, Par-
ranto and Egan violated the open
meeting law when they met with the
Timbershore Homeowners Association
April 2, 1979, to explain their votes at a
previous council meeting. The three had
voted to not have the city help the TV
COURT: to 4. TA
Open meeting Iaw case
COURT: from p. IA
association fund a lawsuit disputing the
alignment of Interstate 35E.
The council members contend they
were invited to the meeting by the
association and did not discuss city
business among themselves.
Kalina will decide whether the five
luncheon meetings and the meeting with
the homeowner's association violated
the open meeting law.
The judge decided Feb. 4 to disallow
Taylor's claim for 5650,000 in damages
from the council members. Taylor had
asked for S50,000 in damages per
meeting per council member.
Public officials found guilty of
violating the open meeting law can be
fined 5100 per violation. Those who
violate the open meeting law three times
can be removed from office.
`t'aylor originally asked that Smith
and Parranto be removed from office
for violating the open meeting law more
than three times. Since Parranto lost his
bid for reelection in 1981, this now ap-
plies only to Smith.
If the judge finds that violations of
the open meeting law did take place, he
would have to decide whether Smith
will be removed from office.
The judge also will decide the merits
of a S50,000 countersuit brought by
Smith, Parranto and Egan against
Taylor. The three men allege that
Taylor's lawsuit has damaged their
reputations.
Testimony in the trial ended Thurs-
day. Kalina asked the attorneys for
both sides to submit briefs outlining
their arguments by Feb. 28. His deci-
sion is expected sometime after that.
•
Eagan
council
agenda
EAGAN • The city council will meet ties -
day, Feb IS. at !Via p.m., to consider the
following agenda
1- 6:30 Roll call and pledge of allegiance
II 6:33 Adopt agenda and approval of
[images.
III. 6:36 - Department head hominess - A
fire department; B. police department: C
park depsriment. p. public works depart -
IV. 615 - Consent items t one motion ap-
proves all ilemsi • A. Wrbton 0-Grady <gg
John Neumann Church) tor a teniporary
non-mtmucatirtg malt liquor license (odor
March 25.
4'. 1 00 - Public A. Project 3P
Smith Rahn Rd. - endears s1; B Project 170
Dakota Count} Plot .1 - streets and
utihtres
VI. Old business A Consideration of a
trapping ordinance, B Cedar Elementary
School'driving school request;C. Reliance
Builders. Dan Rogtvd, for preliminary
plat, Fish lake Addition, consisting of ap-
proximately 1 211 acres located on outlot B.
Pilot Knob Heights Fourth Addition in Sec
ban IS.
ViI. New business - A- Houston Construc-
tion. Inc , John Houston. for preliminary plat
of Oak Chase Fifth Addition, lvntatmng ap
proximately 12.48 acres described as lot 1,
black 3, and lot 2. block 3, Oak (base First
Addition and part of the Wy of the SE,. of
section 27 iknwwn as flak [base Fifth Addi-
tion)
VIII. Additional rtents • A. Cable Televi-
sion lima update.
nuIX lobe heard i for those nemeses
'modal
X. Aft
DAKOTA COUNTY TRIBUNE
SECTION B
DAKOTA COUNTY TRIBUNE
Eagan council clarifies multiple
use zoning for Bassett property
Staff Writer
EAGAN — Acvording to Will
Shakespeare, the question reads:
'To he or not to be.° In the minds
of some rather irate local
citizens, however, the question at
hand is: 'R•1 or R-3.'
At the Feb. 1 city council
meeting, a group of residents liv-
irR on Bear Path Tr. questioned
the fairness and legality of a zon-
ing decision handed down by the
1976 council. The decision allow-
ed Betty Bassett an R-3 (multiple
use) status for a proposed 32-unit
facility for the handicapped — a
facility she still hopes to build on
her property at Rahn Rd. and
Shale Ln. if the proper funding
can be secured.
What disturbs residents of the
area who moved into their homes
after the 1976 zoning decision is
the fact they were unaware their
neighborhood was considered
R-3. Instead, they were under the
impression it was R-1 (single
family). And, had they been
aware of the R-3 status. those ad-
dresing the council stated they
would have settled elsewhere.
BETTY BASSETT and her son Eugene appeared
before the Eagan City Council to clarify zoning for her
proposed facility for the handicapped.
FEBRUARY 10,1983
4s
a
r
tr
DENNIS BOWMAN, 4386
Bear Path Tr., objected
to the city zoning that
allows the facility.
Mr. and Mrs. Howard Jenrich
of Farmington announce the
engagement of their daughter,
Natalie Ann, to James Bormann
Jr., son of James Bormann Sr.
and Patricia Peterson of Farm-
ington.
Jenrich is a 1979 graduate of
Farmington High School and a
1980 graduate of the Dakota
County Vocational Technical In-
stitute practical nursing pro-
gram. She is employed at the
Minnesota Oddfellows Nursing
Home as a licensed practical
nurse. Her fiance, a 1976
graduate of Farmington High
School and 1960 graduate of the
Dakota County Vo-Tech, elec-
trical lineman program. is
employed as a Dakota Electric
Association lineman.
A June 25 wedding is planned at
St. Mathias Catholic Church.
Hampton,
VALEK - LANDON
Mr. and Mrs. Darrell Valek of
Farmington announce the
engagement of their daughter,
Kimberly Ann, to Todd Landon,
son of Mr. and Mrs. Byron Lan-
don of Castle Rock.
Valek. a 1961 graduate of Far-
mington High School. is a student
at Rochester Community Co1-
Irur I anr{nn is a t .g duate of
Mr. and Mrs. Leander Wagner,
25235 Texas Ave., Elko, announce
the engagement of their
daughter, Lynette Marie, to Scott
J. Henry, son of Mr. and Mrs.
Jerry Henry, 9520 E. 245th St.,
Lakeville.
Wagner graduated from New
Prague High School in 1979 and is
a graduate of Medical Institute of
Minnesota. She is farming with
her father.
Henry graduated from
Lakeville High School in 1977 and
is a graduate of Dakota County
Vocational Technical Institute.
He is self-employed.
A May wedding is planned.
RICHARDS • ADELMANN
Carl Richards and Mr. and
Mrs. Nick Adelmann, all of Far-
mington, announce the engag-
ment of their children, Charlene
Anne Richards, and Daniel
Robert Adelman.
The couple will be married
Saturday, March 12, at All Saints
Catholic Church in Lakeville.
Richards, a 1981 graduate of
Farmington High School. is a
1Tt— 5t. Paul, Timothy Korf of
Denver, CO, Todd Johnson and
Michael Plourde of Minneapolis,
John Sevenich of Bt. Paul and
Robert Plourde of Somerset.
Ushers were Kevin Bennek of
Minneapolis, Thomas Sweeney of
Savage and Richard and Thomas
Plourde. both of Somerset.
A reception, dinner and dance
were held at the Majestic
Ballroom in Cottage Grove.
The bride is a graduate of
Simley High School, Inver Grove
Heights, and the College of St.
Thomas, St. Paul, with a degree
in computer science. She is
employed at Retail Systems,
Inc., Plymouth.
The bridegroom is a graduate
of Somerset High School and the
College of St. Thomas, with a
degree in accounting. He is
employed at Plourde Bros., Inc.,
in Somerset.
After a skiing honeymoon in
Upper Michigan, the couple will
be at home in Stillwater.
Family stress
topic is planned
WEST ST. PAUL -- A program
titled "Family stress and the
classs-oom" will be presented
Thursday. Feb. 17, at 7 p.m. in
the Moreland Elementary School
cafeteria, 217 W. Moreland, by
Linda and Jim Moffit. The pro-
gram is free and sponsored by the
Moreland PTA and the Garlough
School PTO-
i t tllfl i d f a
s ow y url s one, rom LI
Serve with fried noodles; Add
drippings, turn carefully to coat rw
them. Cook until they turn a delic
pan-fried liver. You may fry bat
Sour Cream gravy from liver
drippings remaining in skillet. Yo
Ix cup hot water gradually, stirrir
thickens. Then add sour cream an
smooth, Add additional salt and
chives in bowl, if desire,
SANFORD MEMORIAL
HOSPITAL, FARMINGTON
KRAWCHUK -- Boy born to
Gary and Lucille Krawchuk, Ap-
ple Valley, on Jan. 31, 1983 at San-
ford Memorial Hospital.
BUCKLEY - Boy born to Ed-
ward and Patricia Buckley. Ap-
ple Valley, on Jan. 31, 1963 at San-
ford Memorial Hospital.
NORDSETH - Girl born to
Thomas and Patricia Nordseth,
Farmington, on Feb. 4, 1983 at
Sanford Memorial Hospital.
NICKELL -- Boy born to
Rodney and Tina Nickell, Farm-
ington. on Feb. 5, 1983 at Sanford
Memorial Hospital.
NORTHFIELD CITY
HOSPITAL, NORTHFIELD
NYTES - Girl born to Michael
and Nance Nytes, Northfield, on
Feb. 1, 1983 at Northfield City
Emergency food and
shelter program set
The State of Minnesota,
Department of Economic Securi-
ty, is providing Funds for
emergency Food and shelter ser-
vices. Of the $1 million available
for distribution statewide. $12,357
is allocated for Dakota County.
Requests for assistance by
for individuals and/or families
who are unable to provide food
for themselves, and who have ex-
hausted other resources;
• To make shelter payments
for temporary stays in motels,
stays in other public or private
shelters, and for rental payments
fro- inriiviri,inlc , nri;nr fo niljai
action due to in-
Supporting the residents' case
is the zoning map in city hall
which has Bassett's property zon-
ed R-1, not R-3. In addition,
documented proof of the 1976
council's zoning decision is
scarce. though council member
Tom Egan stated: "The staff did
a brilliant job of researching (a
. poorly documented issue), but all
the legal issues were thoroughly
reviewed. The past council's zon-
ing decision was a well thought
out idea, and they intended no
change in rezoning (Bassett's
property) . "
Regarding inaccuracies in the
zoning map, City Attorney Paul
Hauge said, "In a case like this.
you have to take into considera-
tion history and documentation
and combine them."
Speaking from the audience,
Dennis Bowman. 4386 Bear Path
Tr., stated he and his neighbors
were not against handicapped
facilities if they were single units.
What they don't want to see is a
32-person building. "We're con-
cerned with traffic which will be
caused by visitors and buses,"
Bowman explained. "And what
happens if funding runs out in
three years. There sits a vacant -
building ... then what happens to
our property value? We've got
our lives tied up in our homes."
Despite arguments from those
in the audience, however. the
issue at hand was not rezoning.
The council was powerless to
rezone even if it wanted to. The
only issue being considered was
Bassett's request that the council
clarify the underlying zoning of
the planned development on her
property. She was asking
clarification because council
records in 1976 didn't specify
what the underlying zoning was.
After a few more heated ex-
changes between the audience
and council members, the council
voted to clarify the underlying
zoning of Bassett's property as
multiple use. The vote carried
4.1, with Ted Wachter casting the
negative verbal ballot.
IN OTHER ACTION, THE
COUNCIL:
AGREED with the Eagan
volunteer fire fighters on a pen-
sion plan. According to the new
plan. after 20 years of service and
at age 50, fire fighters will
receive either a lump sum of
$31,000, or a monthly payment of
$206.60 for life. Under the old pen-
sion plan — which was im-
plemented in 1978 — fire fighters
were eligible for a lump sum of
$24,000, or $160 per month for life.
The new pension plan is effec-
tive from Jan. 1, 1983, to Dec. 31,
1987, and the city has budgeted
$65,000 to the pension fund. In ad-
dition, the state also contributes
money to the pension.
Fire fighters approved the pen-
sion increase by a 32-4 margin,
though overall negotiations were
prolonged by disagreements over
changing the structure of the
plan.
Council members agreed the
plan must be a good one because
neither side came away com-
pletely satisfied.
APPROVED casino night at St.
John Neumann Church, which
will include a gambling license
and 3.2 on -sale beer.
APPROVED street improve-
ment of Robin Lane, which will
provide access to a landlocked
parcel of land owned by Metram
Properties.
DENIED a driving school re-
quest because the pertinent party
failed to show for the council
meeting. The request can be plac-
ed on the agenda at a future
meeting.
SET a special meeting for Feb.
8 with the advisory parks and
recreation commission to review
the park master plan.
SET a March 29 public hearing
for a special city council meeting
to hear James Horne's assess-
ment appeal.
SET a public hearing for March
15 to discuss modifications in the
city's housing plan.
CONTINUED until March 1
consideration of a request for an
off -sale liquor license policy
amendment.
Eagan decides fate
of outdoor sign
BaCJEFFnrw,LL.�.. ��=wr�3
EAGAN -- The Naegele out
sign controversy came to a
ill
elusion, finally, at the March 1
city council meeting. After much
discussion of city ordinances
dealing with sign height and loca• ,
tion, the council decided the sign
may remain at its designated
location at the north end vicinity
of Cedar Freeway. It must also
be lowered 10 feet.
The council's decision did not
sit well with some residents, -
however, who felt the sign should
be lowered 13 feet to meet city or-
dinances. Richard Decker, presi-
dent of the Park East Associa-
tion. was the most vocal opponent Il
of the council's decision. He f
that according to the ordina
the sign is 13 feet too high.
However. taking into con-
sideration the hilly topography
where the sign is located, council ,
member Jim Smith stated:
"What "What we're talking here is inter-
pretation of the ordinance actor- I
ding to the lay of the land. I say,
let's compromise. I move we
make a 10-foot reduction in the
height of the Naegele advertising
sign and leave it where it is."
Following a second of the mo-
tion, Smith and council members
Tom Egan and Jerry 'Thomas
voted in favor, while Mayor Bea
Blomquist and council member
Ted Wachter voted against. Thus
ended a controversy which began
last November.
Decker, an the other hand, ex-
pressed continued dissatisfaction
with the council and its inter-
pretation of the law.
IN OTHER ACTION, THE
COUNCIL:
APPROVED the rezoning and
preliminary plat for Park Ridge
Addition. The 37.5 acre plat is
bordered on the west by Galaxie
Avenue and on the east by
Ridgecliff Addition. The plat,
which is divided into 114 single
family lots, was rezoned from
agricultural to R-1 PD (residen-
tial single district under a plann-
ed development).
APPROVED a 90-day tem-
porary occupancy permit for
Sperry Corporation for their
semiconductor facility. Sperry
officials began plat application
nearly two months ago but have
yet to complete the process, thus
the need for a temporary oc-
cupancy permit.
SCHEDULED a public hearing
April 5 to consider the Burn-
sville/Eagan cable television
proposal.
APPROVED a final resolution
for $3,325,000 in industrial
revenue financing for the Yankee
Square Inn partnership project.
RECEIVED a petition for the
elimination of the old Highway 13
service drive in front of Perkins
and Rax. The council directed
public works director, Tom Col-
bert, to prepare a feasibility
report on improving access on
the block in question.
Bieter shows revised
by S. Maus Bettenga
The Eagan City Council was
expected to consider a settle-
ment of the Bieter Company
lawsuit at its meeting last night.
Groundwork for the potential
settlement was laid Feb. 9 dur-
ing a special City Council
meeting when Peter Jarvis,
representative of the Bieter
Company, Josiah Brill, lawyer
for Bieter, and Dennis Klohs,
Bieter Company principal,
presented a revised concept for
a shopping center at Diffley
Road and Interstate 35E.
Plans were presented as a
first step toward a settlement,
Brill told the council.
Bieter's plans for a 735,000
square -foot shopping center at
the Diffley-35E site were quash-
ed last year when the co& ncil
voted 4-1 not to rezone the pro-
perty from agricultural to com-
munity shopping center.
At that time, Bieter said
Target, Northwest Racquet and
Swim Club and a home building
center would serve as anchors
for the center.
New plans call for develop -
lans
anent of the 91-acre site to occur
in two phases. The first phase
would include 362,000 square -feet
of retail development on the
west side of the parcel, along
I-35E. The center would be an-
chored by a discount department
store such as Target or K mart
and a major grocer such as Cub
or Lunds, Jarvis said.
"There is a very long list of
retailers that want to be in your
city," Klohs said. He added that
Bieter would be willing to pro-
vide letters of intent from poten-
tial users,
Target to stick with Cliff Road
by S. Maus Bettenga
There were a lot of "ifs" in-
volved in the pisible settle-
ment of the lawsuit brought
by the Bieter Company
against the city. One thing is
for sure, however. The Target
store will be built at Cliff
Lake Centre, a shopping
center recently approved for
land at Cliff and Rahn roads.
Rumors of Target jumping
from the Cliff Lake site to
Bieter's land at Diffley Road
and Interstate 35E were put to
rest Monday by George Hite,
a Target spokesman.
"We are committed to the
Hoffman/Ryan project and
committed to building on
their site," Hite said. Target
officials hope to have the
store open next year. Hite
said he could not provide a
more specific opening date_
Target was one of the
potential users identified by
the Bieter Company last year
when it had plans for a 735,000
square -foot shopping center
at Diffley and 1-35E. The City
Council denied rezoning of the
land for that purpose.
f7 - - 8 e- ovg-r'y T # t,B v1vf
ouncil enough says y commercial
m m r
vial
g
y CHRISTY DeJOY
EAGAN — With almost 21 per-
cent combined commercial and
industrial zoning in Eagan, the
ity council is (eery of approving
ny more rezoning to commer-
ial or industrial.
The zoning is substantially
gher than similar communities.
e average of commercial and
ndustrial zoning in the cities of
Apple Valley, Bloomington, Eden
Prairie, Inver Grove Heights and
Maple Grove is 12.6 percent. The
average commercial zoning in
those areas is 3.6 percent and
Eagan has 6.7 percent.
A motion to approve rezoning
of 100 acres of land to limited
business, roadside business and
high-tech warehouse/office failed
June 18 and the council agreed to
continue the request for rezoning
and sent it back to the Advisory
Planning Commission. (Council-
men James Smith, Jerry Thomas
and Ted Wachter voted in favor
of the rezoning and Mayor Bea
Blomquist and councilmember
Thomas Egan opposed the mo-
tion. Since a four -fifths vote is
needed for approval of rezoning,
the motion failed.)
Land owner Robert O'Neil re-
quested the rezoning from agri-
cultural to various planned
development uses fcr a project
called O'Neil Center, located on
land north of Yankee Doodle
Road, east of Interstate 35E and
west of Lexington Avenue.
The planning commission
recommended denial of the re-
zoning because the city has an ex-
cess of commercially zoned prop-
erty, the property is designated
multi -family residential on the
clty's comprehensive land use
guide and the proposed office and
warehouse should be located on
limited industrial property, not
commercial.
However. Harold Shelf, an at-
torney representing O'Neil, said
the general reason for the rezon-
ing request is that the land is
Rezoning...
(continued horn front page)
said.
O'Neil Center would be located
across the street from Federal
Land Company's office park and
commercial development. Klein
said this is where a downtown
Eagan should be created.
"And 1 don't think Federal
[.and Company should have all of
downtov. n," he said.
Other reasons for continuance
are development in incompat-
ibility with surrounding areas
and the lack of specific site plans
and no commitments from com-
panies that would occupy the
space.
"(Approving rezoning without
knowing development specifics)
is what we've tried to avoid do-
ing. We want to know the land
uses," Blomquist said.
"1 feel very uncomfortable
without specific uses, users and
plat (descriptions)," Egan said.
"right for commercial develop- +
ment." .1
"Everything points to commer- '
dal use," he said.
John Klein, a consultant to
O'Neil, said when 1-35E opens
this fall, the parcel will be ideal
for commercial use. Most land
surrounding freeway inter-
changes is commercial, he add-
ed. Klein said another use, such
as multiple family residential,
would not be suited for the area.
"Dense apartments would ruin
the area. An apartment ghetto
would harm our city. We want to
build a total community." he
(continued on p.9A)
- Is- -g 5' ARoul t+(to ),/,C.i_11
rEagan officials
still battling
airport noise
i.
by 'tam O'Donnell
After listening to the noise
from the Minneapolis -St. Paul
International Airport for
several years, Eagan officials
are learning more about the
cause. But it has not lessened
their concern about the pro-
blem.
Eagan Mayor Bea Blomquist
and City Administrator
Thomas Hedges recently
toured the airport with two
Metropolitan Airports Commis-
sion officials.
"Mayor Blomquist and I left
the meeting with a better
understanding. but we didn't
leave with any less concern,"
Hedges said Wednesday.
"We want the public to know
that just because we had the
tour, things aren't all OK," he
said. "By fact finding. I think
we can concentrate on the
issues better. We are still con-
cerned, especially with spring
coming and more people will
want to have their windows
open. And we still encourage
people to call MAC (the
Metropolitan Airports Commis-
sion) if they have problems with
the noise. The bottom line is
Eagan wants fairness."
Eagan and Burnsville
residents and officials have
charged that an experimental
flight path put an unfair number
of planes over the cities' boun-
dary near Cedar Avenue. The
two-year experiment on that
path, dubbed the 180-degree
turn or the Burnsville turn, end-
ed last December, but the path
is being studied for permanent
use.
The 180-degree turn allowed
planes taking off in a southwest
direction to bank slightly to the
left soon after take -off to fly due
south, which is the 180-degree
heading, said Darrell
Weslander, MAC's noise abate-
ment manager.
That heading routed planes
over commercial east Bloom-
ington areas such as
Metropolitan Sports Center, in-
stead of the residential areas
west of Cedar Avenue, he said.
The due -south heading took the
planes roughly over the Cedar
Avenue corridor when they
crossed the Minnesota River,
he said. The reason for using
that path is "to minimize noise
for the greatest number of peo-
ple, which is the basic goal of
our program," he said.
Last month the Operations
Committee of the Metropolitan
Aircraft Sound Abatement
Council (MASAC) recommend-
ed on a 6-1 vote that the
180-degree turn be made per-
manent. Tom Baker of Eagan
was the lone dissenter.
The committee's recommen-
dation will be on the MASAC
agenda April 23. If approved
there, it could go to the May 6
meeting of the Operations and
Environment Committee of
MAC, then could go to MAC
May20.
If the procedure gains MAC's
approval, it would go to the
NOISE: to p. 4A
Noise concerns continue
NOISE: from p. 1A
Federal Aviation Administra-
tion (FAA ). Before final action
of the procedure. the FAA
would do an environmental
assessment a nd schedule public
hearings, which could take up to
two years. The 180-degree turn
is not now being used, nor will it
be continued until the FAA acts
on it, Weslander said.
Eagan officials have com-
plained about airplane run-up
noise, which occurs when
airplane engines are tested
after maintenance. But
Weslander told Hedges and
Blomquist that much of what
they believe is run-up noise is
actually the high-powered
thrust pilots employ when tak-
ing off or when reversing engine
power to stop planes safely.
"We're hesitant to say we can
promise to reduce those noises.
but the real promise is in the
newer generation of planes,"
Weslander said. Examples are
the Boeing 767 and McDonnell -
Douglas MD-80, which he said
have quieter engines and can
achieve steeper take -offs.
City officials also believe that
pilots are turning their planes
over Eagan before they get
three miles from the airport,
which violates an agreement
the city made with MAC in the
early 1970s, Hedges said.
Weslander said that agree-
ment still is in effect. He said
that MAC tries to get air traffic
controllers to abide by the
agreement, but the controllers
work directly for the FAA, not
MAC.
Hedges said the Eagan Air-
port Noise Committee still is
very active. It plans to meet
Thursday, April 18, with a noise
consultant and with a noise
specialist from the Minnesota
Pollution Control Agency.
t_p - 03 TRts ,I /4—
Release of frogs signals wetland health in Eagan
Cedar Pond Park restoration seen as nationwide prototype
by Erta Jobnsorr
T111Etiu-F1 SPAPFRS
In the late 1990s, Eagan's
Cedar Pond Park was considered •
one of the least healthy wetlands
in Dakota County.
Buf thanks to the combined
efforts of the city of Eagan, the
Legislative Commission on
Minnesota Resources (LCMR),
Dakota County. the Department
of Natural Resources (DNR) and
numerous volunteers, the wetland
has been restored to its former
gay
'.What has been accomplished
here is a true model for other
cities and counties and other
states for what's possible when
we work together with local com-
munity volunteers to restore vital
wetlands;' said Rep. Dennis
Ozment, R-Rosemount, who
chaired the LCMR.
Officials held a press confer-
ence and demonstration
Wednesday at Cedar Pond Park,
located off of Diffley Road east
of Nicols Road, to show how far
the area has come.
'This was probably the key
pond and gathering place for our
community for many, many
years." said Eagan Mayor Pat
Geagan. "Since that time, the
development and a number of
other things that have happened
have caused some problems for
the pond, and it's great to be here
today to see those problems and
issues being resolved:'
Cedar Pond. situated in
Jim Slortand (left►, Magan's water resources technician, and vol-
unteer Abby korte release tadpoles into Cedar Pond 1lednt day.
Eagan's oldest city park, is about wide. The health of the wetland
six feet deep and three acres See Wetland, 7A
Wetland/from 1A
was evaluated by members of
WHEP (Wetland Health
Evaluation ptngram), a volunteer
monitoring program that was
established in Dakota County in
1997.
WHEP was the first program
of its kind in the state, and Eagan
was among the first cities to par-
ticipate in the program. Today. 10
cities in Dakota County have vol-
unteer wetland monitoring teams.
WHEP volunteers detected
poor biological health in Cedar
Pond in 1999, and restoration
efforts began in 2000. Workers
began by removing wooden walls
that were in disrepair and sloping
and grading the area. WHEP vol-
unteers then planted 40 different
species of 1.000 native plants
around the pond to create a natu-
ral buffer.
"We often talk about the land
of 10,000 lakes, but a lot of peo-
ple would be surprised to know
that wetlands comprise 80 per-
cent of all of Minnesota's water,"
Ozment said. "Having this first -
of -its -kind Wetland Health
Evaluation Program (WHEP) is
key to learning not only how to
restore wetlands and how to build
partnerships, but also how to
monitor the ongoing health of
these natural habitats."
Volunteers not only restored
the wetland, but they created a
storm -water management sys-
tem. Three consecutive rainwater
gardens now filter storm water
from Garnet Lake.
'The city knew this was an
area prone to flooding during
high rain events:' Geagan said.
'The city and county knew that
Cedar Pond's water quality and
the wetland itself were among the
worst in Dakota County.
Something had to be done to
improve the situation. The 2000
floods in Eagan, as a result of
unprecedented rainfall, added
special urgency to find a solu-
tion."
The Cedar Pond project will
help teach a great deal about
functioning wetlands that can
serve as storm water collection
ponds. Ozment said. The
Minnesota Erosion Control
Association already looks to
Cedar Pond as a demonstration
site for their members, he said.
The total cost was about
$75.000 to restore the wetlands
and buffer zones and develop the
volunteer and educational pro-
grams. The city of Eagan con-
tributed $37,800 and LCMR ded-
icated $25,000. Dakota County
and the DNR each contributed
about $5,000.
'This is your environmental
trust fund at work,'. Ozment said.
"Your Minnesota Lottery pro-
ceeds funding environmental
projects that accelerate and inno-
vate, just as this Cedar Pond proj-
ect demonstration does."
Assistant DNR Commissioner
Brad Moore said the park may
have been a gathering place for
people in the past. but now it is
also a gathering place for egrets,
blue herons and other wildlife.
".It's a wonderful place to
bung people together with the
natural world, and to make a bet-
ter community for the city of
Eagan and ultimately for the state
of Minnesota," he said.
The partnership between
agencies made the project possi-
ble, he said.
"Had the DNR tried to do this
alone. or the city of Eagan or
Dakota County. it probably
wouldn't have happened or it
would have taken a lot longer:' he
said. 'That is really the strength
of it. You have a network of peo-
ple that care. and a network of
people that make something hap-
pen'
But it was the volunteers, he
said. that were the key to the pro -
jest s success.
"There's a lot of talk about
state agencies and government
taking care of resources, but it
really does start with the people,"
he said. "When you look out
across that small pond, you see
the emerging vegetation, the
sedges and the prairie grass. Stem
by stem, someone sat down there
and planted every one of those. It
was people That made a differ-
ence here."
Tom Goodwin, a biology
teacher at the School of
Environmental Studies, has vol-
unteered with WHEP since its
inception.
"1 volunteer because I'm con-
vinced that the work we do as
volunteers will help preserve wet-
land'. and the quality of life that
the wetlands contribute to," he
said.
There are several reasons peo-
ple.. volunteer for these projects.
he said. such as the chance to
learn. working with other volun-
teers and the importance of the
data they collect.
"It's good science. We're not
just repeating what others have
done. but we're creating knowl-
edge. That's very important:' he
said. "And that makes for valu-
able data for the city. and that
makes our work worthwhile:.
He said the volunteers are a
dedicated bunch that enjoys•
working together.
"We have a great team of vol-
unteers here in Eagan as other
cities do:' he said. "bite WHEP
teammates are eager and enthusi-
astic. whether wading through
chest -deep water to collect crit-
ters or searching through speci-
men trays identitving leeches.'
During Wednesdays presen-
tation. officials unveiled an edu-
cational kiosk that explains the
restoration process. To emphasize
the newly restored health of the
pond. volunteers also released 50
western chorus frog tadpoles into
Cedar Pond.
"When you look at communi-
ties and how they define them-
selves. schools are important.
how they treat their elderly. their
roads and infrastructures" Moore
said. "Bud natural resources are
important, too. And 1 think by
this project. Dakota County and
Fagan are saying that natural
resources are important to the
people, as well:'
Erin Johnson is at
eagan. th iswtek @ ecm - rocs c
ThkThisvveekLagan
www.thisweek-onl ine. com
Eagan's July 4 Funfest comes
home to new Central Park
Celebration will feature new parade route, events
by Erin Johnson
nitrwtr� tiWSWPFJL.
After years of moving from
park to park and changing parade
routes. Eagan's July 4 Funfest
has finally found a permanent
home in the city's new Central
Park.
Eagan will again celebrate
Independence Day with its 15th
annual Funfest celebration. hut
this will be the last time the
parade route and location change.
said Funfest Coordinator Raleigh
Seelig.
"We've had it at Skyhill Park.
we've had it at Cedarvale. Rahn
Park — you name it. we've had it
there. But now we're home;" he
said. Now it's time to fine tune it
and see if we can't bring Eagan
back to what it was"
July 4 parade will cause
road closings, detours
Eagan's July 4 Funfest parade
mute has changed this year. The
parade will begin on Yankee
Doodle Road just east of Blue
Cross Road and will follow
Yankee Doodle Road to Federal
Drive. It will then turn north
onto Central Parkway and finish
at Central Park.
Yankee Doodle Road will be
closed at 8:30 a.m. from
Highway 13 to Coachman
Road. At the start of the parade
at 10 a.m., the Yankee Doodle
Road closing will extend to
Washington Drive until the end
of the parade_ No parking will
be allowed on Yankee Doodle
Road or Central Parkway.
Until the start of the parade,
Coachman Road will be open to
Yankee Doodle for people
wanting to go east on Yankee
Doodle Road. Residents in the
area can use Letendre or Four
Oaks to access Highway 13 as a
detour.
For more information. call the
Eagan Police Department at
(651) 675-5700.
This year, the parade will
begin at 10 a.m. on Yankee
Doxxile Road just east, of Blue
Cross Road and will follow
Yankee Doodle Road to Federal
Drive. It will then turn north onto
Central Parkway and finish at
Central Park.
The celebration will be bigger
this year than in years past, said
Sue Hegarty. public relations
director for the Eagan
Convention and Visitors Bureau
and Funfest Committee member.
'"this year we've got more
space to work with, and people
are excited to see Central Park,"
she said.
In addition to the parade. the
event will feature a carnival, ven-
dor booths and entertainment.
Festivities begin July 3 from 4
p.m. to midnight. Features
include carnival rides. a Mattel
playground for children, a
See Funfest, 5A
LA June 28, 2003 THISWEEK
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Funfest/from IA
genealogy booth. Eagan High
School cheerleaders, water wars
and a hall toss. Food vendors will
offer everything from Kettle
Korn and mini -doughnuts to
tacos and of course. beer_
A street dance will be held
from 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. with a
performance by the hand
LipService, and ongoing enter-
tainment will include turtle races.
a puppet show and a Pat Peare
Dance School stage show.
'"fete festivities will all he at
Central Park.' he said. "We had it
at Central Park two years ago, but
everything was just starting to be
built. This year everything will be
open "
New features this year include
an Eagan car show, hosted by the
Rebel Rods Cruising Club. Up to
75 show cars can be viewed from
noon to dusk on Friday, July 4 at
the Central Park Picnic Shelter.
Admission to the show is free and
there will he a barbeyue.
"We're hoping it will be a per-
manent thing and just get bigger."
Seelig said. "I think it will he
pretty neat "
There will also he an open
house at the new Eagan
Community Center from 11 a.m.
to 5 p.m. on July 3 and 4_ Visitors
will be able to see the new two-
story Blast children's play area,
the senior center. gymnasium. fit-
ness center and banquet rooms.
"Those that haven't seen the
new Community Center can
come in and see what their tax
dollars are being spent on,"
Hegarty said.
The newly installed engraved -
brick pathway in Central Park
will also be available for viewing.
The pathway, called the "Lioness
Legacy." was sponsored by the
Eagan Lioness Club and features
brick pavers engraved with
names of current and former res-
ident,~ of Eagan. It also features
bricks with the name of the city's
oldest resident and the city's
longest -standing business.
Ea THISWEEK June 28, 2003 SA
On July 4 at dusk. the fire-
works shone will begin. and it
promises to be impressive. Seelig
said.
"If they're anything like they
were last year. 1 don't have to say
anything;" he said. "They were
just gorgeous. I heard from one
guy who said he'd been all over,
he'd been to Epcot Center, and
these were the best he'd ever
The city will use the same
fireworks company, Melrose
Pyrotechnics, that it used last
year.
"1 told them I want a fantastic
one this year. because we're com-
bining with the Community
Center and everything else this
year." he said.
For more information on
Funfest events, call the Funfest
Hotline at (651) 675-5511. When
prompted. press 2.
Erin Johnson is at
eagan. rh isweek @ ecm-inr. rem
Eagan K-9 Cody recently
retired from the police
department.
ce--03
Hanging up
his leash
Eagan K-9 retires
after seven years
by Erne Jobresoce
1 HISl. FJ A rl-V.%NOtitS
After seven years of service to
the city of Eagan, Officer Cody
can now look forward to the dog
days of summer.
Cody, the Eagan Police
Department's senior police dog,
retired last week.
Cody and his partner, Officer
Bob Wegner. were recognized
for their service at the June 17
Eagan City Council meeting.
'These officers volunteer for
lots of nights, Tots of weekends,
lots of dog hair, seven days a
week." said Eagan Police Chief
Kent Therkelsen. 'The dog goes
home with them and is pan of
their life every day. It's a huge
commitment that they make"
Cody will enjoy his retire-
ment ati a pet al Wegner's home.
said Therkelsen.
Wegner has been with the
See K-9, 6A
6A June 21, 2003 THISWEEK
K-9/from 1A
department since 1988 and
became a K-9 handler in 1989.
He originally worked with a dog
named King. and after King
retired, he partnered with Cody in
1996.
Wegner said he had a lot of
memorable experiences with
Cody. But as a partner. Cody
came in especially handy at
times. During one incident, for
example, some suspects were
hiding in a swamp, he said.
"Nobody else would want to
go get them, but the dogs always
will." he said.
Now that Cody has retired.
Wegner has decided to leave the
K-9 unit. but he will stay in the
department's patrol division.
"Thirteen -plus years is a long
run for a canine handler."
Therkelsen said. "It kooks neat to
have this intnguing animal. and it
is. hut what these handlers volun-
teer tor is a ton of work. It can't
be overIated how much these
dogs are with these handlers —
24 hours a day. seven days a
week."
Mayor Pat Geagan, former
police chief of Eagan, had praise
for the handlers as well. saving he
appreciates "anybody who's will-
ing to drive around with a wet
dog in the back of their car."
The retirement of a police dog
is done without tool much fanfare,
Therkelsen said. There are no
plaques, ceremonies or even
canine cakes.
"We get very attached to
them. They are part of the
family," he said. "But their
reward is they get to take it easy
in a home setting."
The departure of Bob and
Cody from the K-9 unit have "left
a very large collar to till,"
Therkelsen said.
The newest members of the
K-9 team. Officer Dan Tocko and
i
i
Officer Bob Wegner and Cody,
above, and Officer Dan Tocko
and Gunnar, right, are
recognized by the Eagan City.
Council. Photos hv Erin
Johnson
Gunnar. will attempt to till that
collar. Tocko and Gunnar.
Therkelsen said. recently gradu-
ated fmm St. Paul's K-9 school
after 12 weeks of "very intense,
very challenging" training at
what is considered one of the
finest K-9 training institutes in
the United States.
"We are so fortunate to have
the St. Paul Police Department in
our backyard." he said. —They
have tremendous expertise and a
willingness to share with other
departments '
Tocko has been with the
department since 1999, and has
established himself very well in
that time. Therkelsen said. Tocko
was awarded the department's
Medal of Valor in 2(X12 for his
efforts to save the occupant of a
vehicle that was submerged in a
cold. dark pond. His efforts were
also recognized by the Minnesota
House of Representatives_
Gunnar and Tocko have been
patroling the streets since they
graduated May 28.
Gunnar, a pure -black German
shepherd, is the first K-9 the
department has received from a
harder In the past, the dogs were
either donated or bought from a
pound. Therkelsen said.
"It was more of an adoption
format where we didn't have the
dog's full history," he said. "We
got Gunnar from a breeder, so we
have his full information."
The typical service life of
police dogs is six to 10 years. he
said. The department relies on
handlers when deciding when a
dog is ready for retirement.
Eagan police dogs go through
annual recertification process. he
said, which can alert officers to
the dogs' ability to continue on
the job.
"Training takes place on a
daily basis. The handlers notice if
there are certain skills a dog can't
handle as well;" he said.
The department has always
tried to maintain a two -dog K-9
unit. he said, but with Cody's
retirement and the recent resigna-
tion of another K-9 officer,
they are currently down to just
Gunnar.
"We would like to get a sec-
ond dog," he said. '"It will proba-
bly be next spring"
Meanwhile. Cody will proba-
bly face a "work" withdrawal
period now that he's retired
"Officers have told me that
when they put on their unifomi
and grab their car keys, It takes a
long time for these dogs to real-
ize they're not going to work
anymore." Therkelsen said.
Erin Johnson is at
ea gan. thisweek @ ecm - inc_ cnrn.
Thisvveek
Lagan
www.thisweek-online.com
ti - 1- 03
Al Baker to sell restaurant
After 17 Tears of running one of Eagan's most popular hangouts, Baker will move on
by Erin Jobnsoa
THIS .r. Its NE.WSPAPFRS
A lot has changed since Al
Baker first opened his Eagan
restaurant in 1985. The city's
population was only 32,000.
interest rates hovered at 21
percent, and I-35E ended at
Cedar Avenue.
"Initially when I bought
this place, to tell people how
to get here was a challenge,"
he said. "But we've grown
with the community. I suppose
that's a good way to put it."
Now, after almost four
decades in the restaurant busi-
ness, Baker has decided to sell
his legacy.
"We've decided after 36
years in the restaurant busi-
ness ... it's time to slow down
and do something else." he
said.
As of July I. the restaurant
will be owned and operated by
Daniel Gavin and his fiancee,
Cheryl Burnett.
"Dan was my bartender
trainer at Ground Round in
Burnsville in 1981," Baker
said. "He spent 10 years with
Bennigan's and 12 years with
Outback in Cincinnati. 1 feel
Al Baker, in front of his namesake restaurant
ownership duly 1.
Iike Dan and Cheryl will do a
tremendous job and will make
Moon h, tow .%.M,M 4I
will hand over
a great contribution to the city
of Eagan."
Baker said he and Gavin
have been planning the transi-
tion since last year.
"About a year ago he came
to me and said, '1 think I'm
moving back to the Twin
Cities area — can you start
looking for a place for me to
buy?' " he said. "I said, 'How
about this place?' "
Gavin said he and Burnett
will be "complete partners" in
their new enterprise.
"We're partners in all the
things that happen there."
Gavin said. "One of us will
most likely be there all the
tuuitc "
The new owners will con-
tinue the tradition of Al
Baker's while incorporating
new ideas, Baker said.
"The restaurant is going to
remain Al Baker's." he said.
"We're just going to do a tran-
sition. It's going to be the
same operation Tuesday as it
was Monday."
Gavin is a master with
menus and will especially
make improvements in that
area, he said.
"When he started with
Sec Restaurant, 9A
2A June 21, 2003 THISWEEK
1 - DeaIrship
1 - owner
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Restaurant/from 1A
Outback, there were three
restaurants, and now there are
over 700;' he said.
Gavin developed the manu-
als for menus and food pres-
entation for the Outback fran-
chise, he said.
"His food knowledge is
tremendous. This guy should
do some real good things with
the food." he said. "And his
partner, Cheryl, was also an
Outback proprietor for 12
years."
Baker said it's time to bring
in someone younger with
fresh ideas.
"I still absolutely love the
business. But I'm 65. and new
blood is always positive. And
fresh ideas are always posi-
tive, and that's what we're
going to have."
Baker's wife, Donna, said
she'll miss the people, but "it
will be nice to maybe have a
holiday with our family."
Baker began his restaurant
career in 1967 as a general
manager at his father-in-law's
restaurant, Howie Long's in
Bloomington. In 1981 he
bought the Ground Round in
Burnsville. and he opened Al
Baker's in 1985.
The early years of restau-
rant ownership were often a
struggle for Baker and
Donna, he said.
"She worked hard. She
spent a lot of long hours in
this building," he said.
But leaving the business is
going to be difficult, he said.
"I love to work. I tell peo-
ple I'm 65 going on 50," he
said. "I'm a little bit nervous
about not having a plan the
next day. It's going to be hard
to let go. I wouldn't be sur-
prised if 1 started another
business, but 1 won't do a
restaurant."
The couple plans to spend
more time at their two homes
in different parts of the coun-
try.
In addition to a house in
Arizona, the Bakers inherited
some land in Rochester. N.Y..
from Baker's father.
"We have some farmland in
upstate New York and we're
going to start spending time
out there," he said. "But we'll
continue to live in Eagan
because we have three kids
who live here and five grand-
children. So we'll be here"
Erin Johnson is at
eagas .thisweek@ecm-
inc. coo.
1
,w,w,winnSun.com
—A
City Council
meeting goes
to the dogs
Council recognizes new K-9 officer,
approves license transfer
for Al Baker's new owner
BY JOSHUA NICHOLS
Sun *topspin
The Eagan City Council has made it a
tradition of recognizing new Eagan Po-
lice officers and the ceremony at its June
17 meeting was no different -- except for
the leash and the fur.
Eagan's newest officer, an 18-month
old all -black German Shepherd named
Gunnar, and his partner, Officer Dan
Tocko, were introduced during the coun-
cil's regular meeting.
The Eagan Police Department gets its
K-9 dogs from the St. Paul Police Depart-
ment. which provides the animal and
training for both the dog and the officer.
Costs typically range from $4,500 to
$5,500 to acquire the animal and train
both the dog and its handler.
Tocko was united with his new K-9
partner Feb. 24. Tocko and Gunnar grad-
uated from the St. Paul Police Depart-
ment K-9 training class May 29.
Although Tocko has been a patrol of-
ficer with the Eagan Police Department
since 1989, this is his first time working
with a police dog.
"It's been an interesting experience
and we've spent a lot of time just bond-
ing." 'Focko said. "He's a good dog and
will make a good partner."
Tocko and Gunnar are replacing Offi-
cer Robert Wegner and his K-9 partner,
Cody. Cody is the second K-9 partner
Wegner has had over his 13 years as a ca-
nine handler in the department. Al-
though Cody retired last month to a life
of leisure as Wegner's pet, Wegner is
continuing as a patrol officer with the de-
partment.
Gunnar's name was selected from a
contest open to Eagan students.
More than 500 submissions were re-
ceived from children ages 12 and under.
The names submitted ranged from
Astro, Sniffers, Elvis, Old Blue to Nacho,
Salsa. Enchilada and Tim Paw Several
entries were unique to the city of Eagan
such as Lounoak and Pilot. One entry
was Sunka after the Dakota Indian word
meaning dog.
Although a total of five students sub-
mitted the name Gunner, Woodland Ele-
mentary School kindergartner Brenna
Steichen was the only one who spelled
Gunnar with an A.
In other news at the meeting:
• The council approved the transfer of
the liquor license for Al Baker's restau-
rant from Al Baker to Dan Gavin.
The transfer was required because .
Baker sold the restaurant, after running
it for 18 years. to Gavin.
"It's going to remain Al Baker's,"
Baker said. "I just felt it was time to move
on. After all these years I thought it was
time to try something different."
The official transfer of ownership
won't take place until July 1, Baker said.
Baker met Gavin while he was a bar-
tender at the restaurant. Gavin later
moved away, but last year was looking to
buy a local restaurant and asked Baker if
he knew of any opportunities.
Baker asked him if he would be inter-
ested in buying his restaurant and over
the course of the next year they com-
pleted the deal. Baker said he and his
wife, Donna, will spend more time in Ari-
zona as well as at farmland they own
near Rochester, N.Y. However, they will
still continue to spend most of their time
in Eagan, where they moved to in 1985.
"We'll still be around here," Baker
said. "This is our home and we still plan
to live in Eagan."
Council
From Page 5A
• The council declined to revisit a de-
cision last month to restrict parking on
Ventor Avenue near Eagan High School.
That May 20 decision by the council
required permits for cars parked on the
south mailbox side of the street after
complaints from neighbors about park-
ing from high school events clogging the
road.
However. eight residents represent-
ing five of the seven residents on the
south side of the street sent a petition to
the city asking for the council to rescind
the decision.
"We feel we are being punished all
year long for just a couple of nights,"
said Kathryn Sabel, who lives on Ventor
Avenue and signed the petition. "It's a
major inconvenience to us."
However, the council members said
that the decision was not meant as a pun-
ishment but as a way to address a safety
issue. They also said that after working
on the issue for so long, they didn't want
to make any immediate changes.
Mayor Pat Geagan said the city would
continue to monitor the situation in the
neighborhood and if there were any
problems, the council could revisit the
issue at a later time.
COUNCIL To Page 20A
i, -14 - 03 S4 . eA u_t-
EAGAN ekEjs
Liquor
store
issued 12
citations
Authorities say
underage sales all
from one clerk
BY MARA H. GOTTFRIED
Pioneer Press
Silver Bell Liquor in Eagan
has been known among area
teens as a place to buy alcohol
without having to prove your
age.
But that is changing since
the store was cited 12 times in a
recent seven -week period — all
involving the same clerk
allegedly selling alcohol to peo-
ple under 21.
The citations are far more
than any other establishment in
the city has received during the
past several years.
The Eagan City Council is
poised to decide Tuesday how
harshly to penalize Silver Bell
for what officials say is egre-
gious disregard for the law.
Eagan's city oromance calls
for a $2,000 penalty and a 30-day
liquor license suspension for
establishments that accrue four
or more violations in a 36-month
period, and the council can
increase the suspension for up
to 60 days, or decide to revoke
the license. A store also could
face additional fines.
Rebecca Adams, attorney for
the owner of Silver Bell Liquor,
said the council shouldn't sus-
pend the store's liquor license
because the owner is dismissing
the clerk and Ls planning to sell
the store.
"It was just a matter of a
one -month alleged problem
here," she said "While he (the
owner) does maintain his
employee's innocence, he under-
stands the council's concerns."
The clerk involved with the
recent violations, Jaswinder
Mundi, said he consults a calen-
dar that indicates the minimum
age a person needs to be to buy
alcohol and doesn't sell to peo-
ple under 21. Mundi has been
charged with one gross misde-
meanor and two misdemeanors
for allegedly selling alcohol to
minors.
Ashley Nutt, 19, said she
went to Silver Bell Liquor on
May 9 and bought a bottle of
Bacardi Limon rum. She said
she had bought alcohol there
three or four other times.
"My friends had gone in
before and told me they didn't
card." Nutt said. "There are
many people my age, like more
than 20. who went there
because he didn't card anyone."
Reports show that police
observed people as young as 16
buying alcohol at Silver Bell.
One 16-year-old told an officer
that it was well known at
Burnsville High School that peo-
ple under 21 wouldn't be carded
if they "act nice and smile."
"I'm amazed because gener-
ally, when someone sells to
minors, it's a mistake — they
didn't card very well and it's not
intended," said Eagan Mayor
LIQUOR STORE, BB
and one on May 23. One also
was recorded in January 2001.
Balbir Shoker, the store's
owner, questioned the May 9
figure, saying it was unlikely
police could have found 10
underage people buying alco-
hol from his store in an hour.
"1 don't think it could hap-
pen the way they said it did,"
he said. "We check ID for every
customer. We have to find out
what is the real story. What do
you think, everybody that
comes in is underage?"
Since 2000, 39 other estab-
lishments in Eagan — of about
75 that have liquor licenses —
have been cited. Twelve of
those 39 were cited twice. Two
others have been cited multiple
times — the Kwik Trip on Dodd
Road has received three cita-
tions; and the Crowne Plara
Hotel (formerly the Holiday
Inn) has been cited four times,
but those were before the cur-
rent penalties were in place.
Mara N. Gottfried covers Eagan,
the Metropolitan Council and
suburban growth. She can be
reached at mgottfriedC pioneer
press.com or (651) 228-5262.
14 _ 0 3 -1-MS
City contemplates 2 a.m. bar closing
Eagan can choose 10 keep 1 a.m. closing time
b}' i r rrt Irrhttsme
KS
The Eagan City Council is
considering whether to extend
bar closing time to the new
state limit of 2 a.m.
The city currently has an
ordinance for a 1 a.m. bar
closing time. which was con-
sistent with the previous state
limit.
Now that the legislature
has extended closing time to 2
a.m., the city must decide
whether to "opt out" by keep-
ing its current ordinance or
extending the closing time of
local bars.
At a special meeting June
10. the council raised ques-
tions about the implications of
extending closing time to 2
a.m.
Council Member Peggy
Carlson asked if bars could
purchase a special license if
they wanted to stay open until
2 a.m.
City Attorney Mike
Dougherty said the fee could
be increased if the hours were
increased. but bars would pay
a flat fee. In other words.
those that opted to close earli-
er than 2 a.m. would still pay
the same rate as those who
took advantage of the extra
hour.
Council Member Meg
Tilley questioned whether the
extra hour would put more
burden on the Eagan Police
Department.
"Is there a big issue
between the 1 and 2 a.m. clos-
ing time as far as of police
enforcement, traffic accidents
and DWIs? Does it make a
difference?" she asked,
Capt. James McDonald of
the Eagan Police Department
said that analysts pulled
reports of incidents such as
See Bars, 5A
Baas/from IA
assaults. intoxicated persons
and liquor violations.
"Out of a year and a half. we
got about 61 hits in our system.
That's not between midnight
and 1 a.m, that's full hours of
operation. That's not that
many," he said. "Conversely, in
that same time period. we got
about 576 DUI arrests. Most of
the DUI arrests are coming
between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m."
Extended bar hours could
result in a shift change for
Eagan police officers. he said.
Half of the staff currently goes
home at 2 a.m.
Eagan Police Chief Kent
Therkelsen said that the Eagan
Police Department doesn't have
strong feelings one way or the
other on the issue at this point.
"As of this time. there are no
big red flags for the city of
Eagan," he said. "We did some
research and what we see is that
our on -sale liquor establish -
meats have not historically put
a large call burden on the Eagan
Police Department."
Therkelsen said that most
Eagan bars are within restau-
rants. and they are more spread
out than in other cities.
"We don't have a dense con-
centration of bars. In other
cities, people hop from one to
the next. which causes prob-
lems," he said. "Ours are
restaurants. 1 think it's a differ-
ent environment here than in
some cities."
The department has noticed,
however that most current DWI
activity occurs two to three
hours after bar closing.
"That means we're going to
have to pay attention and deter-
mine if this will have to result
in things like shift changes," he
said. "I think time will tell.
We'll evaluate this in terms of
our ability to deliver police
service. We'll carefully watch
to see if it does have any
i mpact."
EO
THISWEEK
June
14, 2003
5A
The council agreed that the
decisions of neighboring cities
could impact Eagan's decision.
"I would recommend that we
hold this off until we find out
what other cities around us are
doing." said Council Member
Cyndee Fields.
Maguire agreed_
"If bars were open in Eagan
until 2, but closed in Burnsville
and Apple Valley and Mendota
Heights until 1 a.m., we may
see an influx of drivers that
might potentially be intoxicat-
ed." he said.
A survey is currently being
conducted by the Eagan
Convention and Visitors
Bureau, said City
Administrator Tom Hedges, to
get feedback from neighboring
cities.
The issue will appear on the
council agenda sometime in
July.
Erin Johnson is at
eagan.thisweek@ecm-inc.com.
(.-jK-03
www thisweek-onllne.con
Guns not welcome on city property, Eagan says
City will post 'unwelcome' signs similar to those in Duluth
by Eria Johnson
rtwoA t 1 A ♦I-.W SPAF'I: kti
While it can't legally pro-
hibit them. the city of Eagan is
sending a message that guns
are not welcome on city prop-
erty.
The Eagan City Council
directed city staff to post
"unwelcome" signs in city -
owned public areas such as the
Civic Arena, Cascade Bay and
the Community Center.
The signs will be similar to
those posted by the city of
Duluth, which read "Guns not
welcome here."
Duluth was among the first
cities to post the signs. which
the council will use as a tem-
plate for Eagan's signs.
The move is not as bold as
the steps taken by Hennepin
County. which challenges the
new law by Nanning guns in
"Why would you carry a gun in Eagan, to a
hockey arena, unless you were for some rea-
son going to think you might need to use
it?."
— Peggy Carlson
EAGAN CITY COUNCIL MEMBER
county buildings. But it does
send a message, said Council
Member Peggy Carlson.
"I guess the big question is.
why would you carry a gun in
Eagan. to a hockey arena.
unless you were for some rea-
son going to think you might
need to use it?" Carlson said.
"I would have no problem
posting signs. They're not
enforceable, but at least there
would be a message here that
'we don't think they're appro-
priate, don't bring them in
here. please.'"
Carlson said that people
are telling her they're more
concerned with the new crite-
ria for obtaining a permit,
rather than the fact that there
might be more guns issued.
"The screening process was
(in the past). 1 believe, a much
stronger safety net on who
actually got to carry a gun out
in public. This law is totally
irresponsible to what the real-
ity is, she said. "When you
think about wearing a gun to
Cascade Bay, it just seems so
ridiculous. That's the big fear
I'm hearing from citizens. The
bar has been lowered here.
and that is a big concern."
The council is also contem-
plating whether city employ-
ees should be prohibited from
carrying concealed weapons
on city property. Because they
are employed by Eagan. the
city has the right to prohibit
them.
Council Member Mike
Maguire said he has some
fears about doing that.
"People may well he able
to carry a gun in city hall or in
council chambers, and by say-
ing city employees can't,
See Guns, 5A
2A June 14, 2003 THISWEEK
1 - Dealership r Coming Spring/Summer 2003 Fin
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Guns/from lA
you're giving a lot of power to
people by telling them your city
staff is disarmed,' he said.
City Attorney Mike
Dougherty also discussed some
possible city liabilities with the
council. He said that the clear-
est liability would come from
people who have a permit and
are on city property and cause
injury to a third party. The city
could then be named in a law-
suit.
` The city can do all it can to
try to entice people (carrying
weapons) not to be on city
property, but you can't prohibit
them," he said.
"But if the city and personnel
have reason to suspect that the
person who is carrying a
weapon is threatening, that
becomes a heightened issue as
to whether you will be culpable,
and ultimately might have to
pay some damages if someone
gets hurt."
There is also some liability
on the part of Eagan police,
Dougherty said.
"The sheriff in large part is
going to rely on the locals for
some background information,"
he said. "And to the extent that
the PD gives out information
that might defame somebody ...
all of a sudden the city has
exposure to that particular party
because we're telling what we
believe is the truth to the sher-
iff.'.
In addition to approving the
signs, the council directed staff
to put together a personnel pol-
icy to deal with the issue of
employees carrying weapons.
The policy will go before the
council at a later date.
Meanwhile, for Cascade Bay
visitors, Carlson said, "Maybe
we'll have new bathing suits
with holsters on them."
Erin Johnson is as
eagamthisweek@ecm-inc.com.
5T PR4i Ao uccR Dzcss
Al Baker
bids adieu
EAGAN
After 18 years, the namesake owner of
Al Baker's restaurant is moving on.
PHOTOS BY RICHARD MARSHALL. PIONEER PRESS
A mural painted by a friend depicts Donna
and Al Baker receiving farewells by new
owners Dan Gavin and fiancee Cheryl Burnette.
Al Baker, center, enjoys the reactions to his groaner of a story Monday from regular customers Mike and Mary
Krolick of Eagan, far left and right, and his wife, Donna Baker, second from left, on the last day of work for the Bakers
at Al Baker's restaurant in Eagan.
BY MARA H. GOTTFRIED
Pioneer Press
After 18 years of serving up the
town's news and baby -back ribs, Al
Baker has left the Eagan restaurant
that bears his name.
Baker, who has been described as
knowing "more people than Santa
Claus" and Eagan's unofficial social
director, and his wife, Donna Baker,
are retiring and signing over their
business to new owners today.
The longtime staff will be the
same, and the Al Baker's sign isn't
going anywhere. But the couple that
made Al Baker's Al Baker's won't be
there anymore — unless they come in
as customers.
Through the years the Bakers
have aimed to give customers good
food, with quality service. But the key
to their success has been getting to
know the customers and not letting
their work end at the restaurant's
doors; Al and Donna Baker have
organized yearly bus trips to Vikings
and Twins games, and they are avid
BAKER BIDS ADIEU, 3B
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who %ill want to
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possible at the
eeting July 21.
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two terms;
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nesota; and
community
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ership of
• unces new
board of
ev. Michael
for at Prince of
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Scheibe!,
mayor and
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urce Center;
president of
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•f Junior
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and
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Arms
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at American
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unteer.
METRO/REGIONAL BRIEFING
MAPLE GROVE
Man charged lisith
attack on parents
A Maple Grove man was
charged Monday with killing
his father and injuring his
mother last week in an attack
with a hammer in front of his
Maple Grove townhouse.
Rodney John Knave, 41, is in
custody in the Hennepin Coun-
ty Adult Detention Center in
connection with Friday's
attack. Bail has been set at $1
million.
"The parents had come to
help their son who was locked
out of his home," said Hen-
nepin County Attorney Amy
Klobuchar in a prepared state-
ment. "It appears the son sud-
denly turned on his father and
attacked him with extreme bru-
tality. The exact circumstances
and motive for this attack are
still under investigation."
According to Klobuchar's
recounting of Knase's mother's
statement, the parents
unlocked Knase's townhome
for him and were inside for
about 20 minutes. All three of
them then went outside and
the mother went to the side of
the residence to check on some
tomato plants. When she
returned moments later, she
saw Knase striking his father
with a hammer
When his mother tried to
intervene by placing her body
over her husband's body, Knase
then struck her with the ham-
mer on the left side of her skull,
according to the statement.
At that point, Knase said to
her: "I'm sorry. 1 did not mean
to hit you." Then he continued
to strike her husband's head
with the hammer.
Knase told Maple Grove
police who responded to a call
that he had killed his father,
according to the statement.
— Judith Yates Borger
WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP
Lake area called safe
after contamination
Lakeville had sued to keep
the Metropolitan Council from
studying the possibility of
extending the lines, saying to
do so would be to "leapfrog"
undeveloped areas of Lakeville.
But Dakota County Judge Bill
Thuet dismissed that suit last
week, officials said Monday.
Tom Weaver, Met Council
regional administrator, said he
was pleased with the ruling.
But he added that the issue
isn't settled, and the council
and Lakeville officials have
been discussing other ways to
accommodate growth in
Lakeville.
The placement of sewer
lines is controversial because it
controls growth in outlying
areas. Without them, develop-
ers must rely on septic tanks or
local water treatment plants to
treat sewage, which can be
more expensive and less reli-
able.
Last year, the Met Council
started to study the possibility
of extending lines to the fast-
growing Elko/New Market area
in Scott County, south of
Lakeville.
Lakeville Administrator Bob
Erickson had argued that the
extension would promote
growth in an outlying area,
while areas of Lakeville remain
unserved by sewer lines, and
undeveloped.
— Bob Shaw
BUFFALO LAKE, MINN.
Tornado damage
put at $12 million
Last Tuesday's tornado
caused more than $12 million in
damage to this south-central
Minnesota town, said Police
Chief Greg Gowan.
He said 159 buildings were
damaged and 15 were
destroyed, adding up to more
than $6 million in damages.
Gowan said about 5,000
acres of farmland were also
destroyed around the city. He
estimates the Loss in crops,
buildings and equipment in
rural areas to be about $6.4 mil-
lion but that he hasn't heard
about any government aid at
this point.
Online Information — muse-
um: www.ntississippirivermu-
seum.com; Padelford Packet:
www.riverrides.com.
— Associated Press
COOK, MINN.
Town's water supply
tainted by E. coli
Residents of Cook were told
to drink bottled water or boil
their tap water after E. coli bac-
teria were found in the north-
eastern Minnesota town's
water supply. "The water's con-
taminated for some reason,"
City Council Member Dick
Edblom said Sunday. "I have no
idea why. Nobody does. We'll
know more after tests."
Edblom said the bacteria
were found Saturday during
routine testing of the town's
well water. No illnesses have
been reported.
— Associated Press
BLUE EARTH, MINN.
Grand jury to get
homicide case
Faribault County Attorney
Brian Roverud said he will ask
a grand jury to indict an lowa
man on charges of first -degree
murder in the strangling death
of a Blue Earth motel clerk.
Roger Morton, 46, has
already been charged with sec-
ond-degree murder in the May
29 death of Mary Klatt of Blue
Earth.
An autopsy found she had
been strangled with the neck-
line of her own T-shirt.
Under Minnesota law, a
grand jury must decide if a
defendant can be charged with
first -degree murder.
Morton was a registered
guest at the Americlnn hotel
when Klatt was killed. He had
been working for a roofing
company in Blue Earth.
Prosecutors said rape was
the motive, and that DNA from
sperm collected at the scene
matched Morton's.
Morton remains in custody
and bail has been set at
$250,000.
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RICHARD MARSHALL. PfONEER PRESS
Restaurateur Al Baker exchanges a hug with waitress Andi
Himmerick, who has worked for Baker for 16 years. "He's like
family to me," said Himmerick of her soon -to -be -ex -boss.
Baker bids adieu
(continued)
financial donors to Eagan youth
sports and community pro -
The Bakers have been "as
good as any economic -develop-
ment engine" the city has had in
the past 18 years, said Tom
Hedges, Eagan's city adminL ra-
tor.
"It's not every city that has a
place like Al Baker's and owners
so involved in the community,"
he said
In a sea of chain restaurants,
they are the rare family -owned
establishment. In a roughly 1-
mile radius of Al Baker's restau-
rant, which t4 near Yankee Doo-
dle and Pilot Knob roads, the
majority of the restaurants are
chains.
Each time a new restaurant
has opened, the Bakers say their
busing has declined for about
,f month. Then, after people have
tried out the new place, they
return to Al Baker's.
"Tm a firm believer that
there's a lot of people that want
to support independent busi-
nesses and not the chains," Al
• Baker said "The difference is
(the chains) want to make the
numbers look good, and we
have a sincere feeling for the
gu„
Jim Decker of Eagan comes
to the restaurant at feast once a
week and stopped in for lunch
Monday "There's a lot of places
you can go and not know who
the owner is, let alone have the
owner stop by your table," he
said- 'That's the difference here.
Coming here feels like coming
home."
Al Baker, originally from
Mumford, N.Y., moved to the
Twin Cities in 1962 and began
working at 3M Co. in sales. Soon,
he was asked to escort 3M's
queen candidate to the St. Paul
Winter Carnival. The queen was
Donna, who was an executive
secretary at 3M. The two will cel-
ebrate their 41st wedding
anniversary later this month
Donna Baker grew up in
Aberdeen, S.D., and was born
into the restaurant business. Her
father, Howard Wong, taught Al
Baker the ins and outs at
Howard Wong's restaurant in
Bloomington. He worked there
from 1967 to 1981, and then Al
and Donna Baker built a Ground
Round restaurant in Burnsville.
In 1985, the two began remod-
eling what is now Al Baker's and
opened that year They sold the
Ground Round business in 1967.
The Bakers met one of the
new owners of Al Baker's, Dan
Gavin, in 1981. Gavin was work-
ing for the corporate office of
Ground Round and came to the
Bakers' Ground Round for train-
ing in 1981. Gavin went on to
work for other large restaurant
chains and met his fiancee and
co-owner, Cheryl Burnette, along
the way.
Gavin, who grew up in Rose-
mount, was in town about a year
ago and asked AI Baker for
advice on where he ought to buy
a restaurant
"Why don't you buy this
one?" Al Baker said.
"Because you won't sell it,"
Gavin said.
"Haw about next week?" Al
Baker said.
So today. Al and Donna
Baker are signing the business
over to Gavin and Burnette.
They will lease the building to
them
"I'm 65 going on 50," Al Baker
saki. "I don't ever want to retire.
But at some time in your life,
enough is enough."
"But it will be nice to have
time with the family on holi-
days," said Donna Baker. who is
62 Their three children have
worked at the restaurant, and a
daughter is a manager there
now and will stay on. Still,
Donna and Al Baker have spent
nearly every day of the last 18
years at the restaurant.
A mural painted on an inside
window of the restaurant illus-
trate the transition between the
two couples. Al and Donna
Baker are shown heading away
in a convertible, and the new
owners hold a key to the retitau-
rant Above them it says, 'The
key to success, prosperity and
the safe."
Gavin said he and Burnette
talked briefly about changing
the restaurant's name, but
agreed that Al Baker is "pretty
endeared in the community, so
why change the success of what
"I'm 65 going on 50.
1 don't ever want to
retire. But at some time
in your life, enough is
enough."
AL BAKER
Eagan Restaurateur
has worked?"
Though Gavin and Burnette
feel they have high expectations
to live up to, Al Baker said he
trusts the pair.
"1 wouldn't let just anyone
have my name," Al Baker said.
"I'm convinced that they'll carry
on what we've done here and
improve upon it"
Marc H. Gottfried covers Eagan,
the Metropolitan Council and
suburban growth. She can be
reached at mgottfried@pioneer
press.com m (651) 228-5262.
NIGEL COOK, ASSOCIATED PRESS
cClinton performs as a likeness
reen Saturday during the Dale
na International Speedway in
Storm interrupts
pageant broadcast
California's Andrea Finch
won the 46th America's Junior
s
Judge Harold
Schultz,
known for his
optimistic spir-
it and abillty
to settle cases
without trial,
died Monday
of complica-
tions from congestive heart
failure. He was 85.
Schultz served nearly 25
years as a Ramsey County
judge before retiring in 1987.
"He was a marvelous
judge," said Lawrence Cohen,
also a retired Ramsey County
District Court judge. "He was a
settler. He had the ability to
bring people together."
Schultz was known as a
father figure who treated
everyone in his courtroom
with respect.
"Rarely does a day go by
when someone doesn't compli-
ment me about my dad" said
Teresa Warner, one of
Schultz's nine children and
currently a Ramsey County
District Court judge herself.
"He was such a people person.
He always saw the good in
Harold
Schultz
bad in all of us. There-s gooci m
all of us. There may be some
people who should go to prison
for the rest of their lives, but
they are rare."
Some defendants received
a fatherly lecture at sentenc-
ing.
"He cared about the people
who came in front of him,"
Cohen said_ "Every once in a
while. he'd give a lecture, too."
"He disarmed people by his
pleasantness," said Roger
Carter, who served as
Schultz's court reporter for 16
years. "He was always ready
with a smile. He never cut
lawyers off when they were
talking. He let them have their
say"
"In his world, the glass was
always three-quarters full,"
said Teresa Warner. "He had a
way about him that brought
out the best in people."
After retiring as a Ramsey
County judge, Schultz received
a special appointment to the
Minnesota Court of Appeals
and did a lot of mediation
work.
A lifelong resident of St.
Paul's East Side, Schultz
DEATHS ELSEWHERE
William Mitchell).
He served as an officer with
the Navy during World War II
and took part in the D-Day
landing at Omaha Beach in
June 1944.
In 19.50, he was elected to
the Minnesota Senate and
served until 1962, including a
stint as minority leader for the
Democratic -Farmer -Labor
Party.
Gov. Karl Rolvaag appoint-
ed Schultz to the Ramsey
County bench in May 1963.
In addition to daughter
Teresa Warner, Schultz is sur-
vived by his wife of 62 years,
Antoinette (Toni); children
Susan Mockenhaupt, Harold
Schultz II, Peggy Brettingen,
Jean King, Larry Schultz.
Mary Ellen Schultz, Tom
Schultz and Toni Kvamme; a
brother, Daniel; 19 grandchil-
dren; and four great-grandchil-
dren.
Visitation is from 4 to B p.m.
Wednesday at the Phalen Park
Funeral Home- The funeral is
at 10 a_m. Thursday at St
Casimir Church in St. Paul.
Private burial will be at Fort
Snelling National Cemetery.
Robert McCloske was children's book writer, artist
BY ELEANOR BLAU
New York Times
Robert McCloskey, the
writer and illustrator whose
classic children's books —
among them "Make Way for
Ducklings" and "Blueberries
for Sal" -- captivated genera-
tions of young readers and
their parents, died on Monday
on Deer Isle, Maine. He was 88.
A small-town boy with a
gift for keen observation,
McCloskey wrote and illustrat-
ed only eight books, all for
Viking Children's Books, and
illustrated 10 by other authors,
including Ruth Sawyer, whose
daughter, Margaret Durand, a
children's librarian, he mar-
ried in 1940. "I'm not prolific,"
he once said. "1 have to wait
until it bubbles out." It had to
be right, and it often was.
McCloskey twice won a
Caldecott Medal, the Ameri-
can Library Association's
annual award of distinction for
children's book illustration.
The first was for "Make Way
for Ducklings (1941)," perhaps
his most enduring work, in
which baby ducks in line
behind their mother waddle
along busy Boston streets to
take up residence in the city's
Public Garden.
The second honored "Time
of Wonder (1957)," a kind of
prose poem with large water-
color paintings of life on his
cherished islands of Maine.
"All of his work has always
been very exact," said Marc
Simont, the illustrator who
shared a studio with him and
with live ducks that
McCloskey bought before writ-
ing "Make Way for Ducklings."
"He wanted to study them
perfectly before he could make
a book about them, so he made
drawings of them in every
position," Simons recalled,
adding that the experience
remained vivid in his memory.
"Ducks start quacking at the
break of day, very loudly and
emphatically."
THIS WEED
11iEWSPAPERSEAGAN
Volume 7, No. 14 June 3, 1985
Two Sections Section A
Your
Community
Newspaper
Donaldson Company
to close Eagan plant
By CHRISTY DeJOY
Donaldson Company, Inc. an-
nounced May 24 the closing of the
Eagan plant, 900 Apollo Rd., with
the immediate dismissal of more
than tt0 of the plant's employees.
About 90 employees returned to
work May 28 and will work until
the plant's permanent closing in
two to three months.
The company closed the plant
to make Donaldson more pro-
fitable by consolidating man-
power and production resources,
according to Donaldson Company
treasurer Ernest Andberg.
'This is part of a two- to three-
year effort al down sizing capaci•
ty and the number of employees.
It's an ongoing effort to bring the
company into proper size," And -
berg said_
TheBloomington-based com-
pany manufactures air cleaners
for trucks. construction equip-
ment and farm equipment. And -
berg said business is poor
because of a reduction in sales in
farm and construction equipment
industries.
Dkonaldson lost money in 1983.
and although they have
recovered some since then. the
company is still "well below
historic average profitability."
Andberg said.
Donaldson Company opened its
doors in Eagan in the fall of 1969,
with full production reached in
late 1970. The company currently
has nine plants in the United
States and 11 in other countries
around the world.
Andberg said it was unlikely
that any of the Eagan employees
would be moved to another plant
The company announced May 2S
the cutting of 105 salaried
employees. The company plans
to reduce its Minnesota employ-
ment by one-third.
Of the Eagan plant's 176
employees, 144 were hourly and
32 were salaried.
Tim Aadalen. Eagan. said he
was "absolutely shocked" when
he heard the afternoon of May 24
news of the plant closing.
Aadalen, who has been with the
company 13.5 years, worked in
assembly. He, his wife and
13-year-old daughter moved to
Eagan 12 years ago to be close to
Donaldson.
"Our department was never
told there was a meeting. We
heard (about the closing) from
guys as they were walking out 'of
the meeting t .
"We were told to leave the
building immediately and we
would be paid for the rest of the
day," he said.
-'Nobody told us to set money
aside for this a year ago when
they knew +about the closing."
Aadalen alleged.
Aadalen, who was dismissed
May 24, said he has "no idea"
what he'll do next.
The company plans to sell the
300.000-square-foot building,
which is located on 50 acres
southeast of Lexington Avenue
and Lone Oak Road. Andberg
estimated the building and land
to be worth about $3 million.
By Dr. Theodore Foot.
Superintendent of
District 191 Schools
The district's long-range plan
emphasizes the goal of recogniz-
ing student achievement. We
want to acknowledge positive
behavior and the pursuit of ex-
cellence. Here are some ex-
amples of how Burnsville High
School implements this goal.
The "A" and "IV honor roll for
each trimester is printed in Burn-
sville Thisweek and Eagan
Thisweek newspapers. A list of
students who earn straight "A's"
for the trimester is posted
throughout the building. Beginn-
ing with the Bass of 198,5, the two
graduates with the highest rank -
in -class will deliver a commence-
ment address. The 10 highest
ranking seniors are honored at
the senior banquet with
medallions. These same 10
seniors, plus the highest five
juniors and five highest
sophomores, receive an
academic excellence plaque at a
recognition program.
The recognition program is
held near the end of each school
year, at which time awards are
presented and student ac-
complishments are highlighted.
Examples of these awards are
community scholarships; full
four-year college scholarships;
National Merit Scholarship
finalists; top-ranking seniors.
juniors, and sophomores;
outstanding students by depart•
ment, e.g., mathematics,
language arts, foreign language,
art, etc.; school service awards;
and athletic excellence awards.
Student musicians perform, and
the Burnsville Education
Association "Teacher of the
Year" gives the address.
The commencement program
identifies students who graduate
with distinction (grade point
average of "A-" or higher) and
those who are members of the
National Honor Society. Students
graduating with distinction are
given a gold honor cord and ask-
ed to wear it at commencement.
The commencement program
also identifies seniors who have
received an award, honor,
scholarship, or grant-in-aid.
in June, a list of all
sophomores, juniors, or seniors
who have received an award or
honor will be mailed to parents.
A highlight of the school year
is the National Honor Society in-
duction ceremony held each spr-
ing. Juniors in the upper 10 per-
cent of their class are inducted in-
to the Honor Society at this pro-
gram, which features speeches
by the society president, enter-
tainment by selected society
members and an address by a
teacher.
A student Hall of Fame is
located in the entryway to the
large gymnasium. Pictures of
We welcome your
news and opinions
students who graduate with a
straight "A" average are
displayed there, along with
trophies and pictures of
danceline members, chess teams
and individual students who win a
state championship in Minnesota
State High School League events
or in sanctioned state competi-
tion.
Students may earn a varsity
letter for representing the school
and competing in the Twin City
Math League, South Suburban
Chess League and Minnesota
Science Olympics. No one is
denied the opportunity to be a
team member and participate.
However, each league limits the
number of participants included
for purposes of determining the
school's score in competition.
Cocurricular activities have
end -of -season banquets at which
members are recognized by their
coach, sponsor or adviser for
special achievement in that par-
ticular activity.
All -school assemblies are held
in the fall, winter and spring to
showcase student talent in
athletics, music and drama. Any
team that competes in a state
tournament is recognized at an
all -school assembly. (For 1984-85.
this included the chess team,
danceline, music groups,
cheerleaders and athletic
teams.)
Finally, the high school
recognizes students who make
noteworthy contributions to the
school or community by publiciz-
ing their activities in the daily
bulletin and on the student
recognition bulletin board.
This emphasis on excellence
gives students positive reinforce-
_ _ —__ __� __.L.h.- ____--:�'..� r.,.• .....1 1.�.,J.4.. s� —_ a..f tk.
To the editor:
As the Dakota County Human
Services strike moves into its
third week, many residents are
probably trying to figure out why
they are without social and
economic services.
The issues that have been ar-
ticulated by management, ad-
ministration, and the county
commissioners seem clear and
straightforward. The county
would reduce employee health
benefit coverage, eliminate com•
pensation time for after hours
work (the county does not pay
overtime) and arbitrarily alter
any employee's work schedule on
a day-to-day basis. ironically,
wages have not been an issue in
this strike.
The commissioners have char-
acteristically adopted a hard-line
stance with the union since nego-
tiations began last October, re-
jecting all efforts for discussion
and displaying no motivation for
even carrying on the pretense of
bargaining in good faith. Their
bargaining strategy has simply
been "take it or leave it."
Obviously, these proposals are
considered to be "takeaways"
from the expired contract with
AFSCME 306, the county em-
ployees' local bargaining unit.
What may be leaving many
county residents puzzled are the
yet to be articulated hidden
motives of county officials. What
does the county stand to gain by
provoking and prolonging a
strike from human service em-
ployees?
There are several possibilities.
It is well known in the county that
the commissioners would like to
break away from Minnesota
merit system, the statewide
human services personnel sys-
tem, and establish their own per-
sonnel system which would give
them absolute power over wages
the county commissioner's point
of view, one possible outcome of
this strike would be to break the
union.
Second, it is not difficult for
county employees to speculate
that management is balancing
the grossly misplanned 1985
human services budget at the ex-
pense of their salaries, but more
importantly, at the expense of
"at risk" county residents. It is a
little publicized fact that certain
line -items were so grossly mis-
calculated that one month into
the year, a half -million dollar
overrun had already accumu-
lated. Certainly, one strategy
available to save face at the end
of the year is to contrive a means
to stop paying salaries and pro-
viding services.
Finally, it is felt that through
this strike, county officials have
dearly demonstrated their deter-
mination to squelch, once and for
all, any future hopes county em-
ployees have of bargaining on an
equal basis for incremental im-
provements on wages, hours,
benefits or working conditions.
The message seems to be, "You
welfare people know your place,
don't forget it,"
Implicit in this is a very dis-
turbing display of attitudes held
by those who control county
human service resources toward
those who provide and receive
them.
Dakota County residents
deserve more.
RICHARD R. AMARO, MS MSW
Social Worker III
Dakota County Child Protection
Initial Assessment Unit
Gossett thanks
district supporters
A\\5c._ Al(), \LLB,
THURSDAY,
MAY 8,
2003
ST. PAUL PIONEER PRESS
LOCAL NEWS sc
INSIDE
TODAY
DAKOTA COUNTY
Beaches lose
lifeguards to
budget cuts
Page 2C
MINNESOTA
Missing
St. Cloud girl
found in Utah
Page 4C
OBITUARY
SOUTH SUBURBAN EDITION • WWW,TWINCITIES.('UM
MINNESOTA HOUSE
House bill shrinks aid to cities
Budget also bars cities from property tax hikes to recover lost aid
BY PATRICK SWEENEY
Pioneer Press
After a battle over competing
rural and suburban interests, the
Republican majority in the Min-
nesota House on Wednesday
approved a no -tax -increase tax
bill that would slash aid to St.
Paul, Minneapolis and many out -
state cities.
The legislation, which also
authorizes rural tax-free zones
promised by Gov. Tim Pawlenty
during his campaign, is on a colli-
sion course with a bill in the
Democratic -controlled Senate
that calls for more than $1 billion
in tax increases.
With only 12 days to go before
the scheduled end of the legisla-
tive session, House and Senate
leaders so far have made little
progress toward a compromise
between the two dramatically dif-
ferent plans for curing Minneso-
ta's $4.2 billion deficit.
Before the House went into
session Wednesday morning,
Pawlenty met with Republican
senators and representatives and
urged them to finish the session
without raising taxes.
Pawlenty said the pledge he
signed last June to veto any tax
increase was a statement of prin-
ciple, not a campaign tool to help
him win the Republican endorse-
ment for governor.
"It wasn't something 1 cooked
up during the campaign last fall,"
he said. "It was something 1
espoused for a decade."
The vote on the House tax bill
BILL SHRINKS AID, 3C
More at
the Capitol tiro
• Bar -closing time not the
only liquor bill on tap at
the Legislature. Page lA
• Environmental groups
hand out leaders' report
cards. Page 3C
2C S THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2003
NORTH OAKS
Businesses
admit to
neon sign
violations
BY CYNTH1A BOYD
Pioneer Press
Three North Oaks storeown-
ers pleaded guilty to violating a
city ordinance banning neon
signs, and each was ordered to
pay a $50 fine and $40 in court
costs Wednesday in Ramsey
District Court in Maplewood.
Shop owners from Hum-
mingbird Floral and Von Han-
son's, a butcher and grocery
store, said they had plugged in
small neon signs that read
"Open" years ago, but learned
only recently the neon violated
City Ordinance 94. The third
business was Curves, a fitness
operation that opened recently
at North Oaks Village Center.
The center is located at high-
ST. PAUL
City Council restricts gift policy
Mayor's hockey trip prompted action
BY ARON KAHN
Pioneer Press
As the Minnesota Wild
prepared to play their biggest
game of the year Wednesday
night, the St. Paul City Coun-
cil sent a message to one of
the t.eam's biggest fans, a 52-
year-old St Paulite who also
happens to be the mayor:
Watch the freebies!
On a unanimous vote, the
council passed a resolution
requiring Mayor Randy Kelly
and all city officials to decline
gifts such as those received
when Kelly accepted an invi-
tation from a wealthy busi-
nessman to fly to Denver with
Wild executives to attend a
playoff game.
The complimentary flight
and game ticket were offered
by Dr. Olen Nelson, whose
Elected officials in Min-
neapolis recently have been
very careful to avoid any
chance of violating the state's
gift ban, following two recent
convictions of City Council
members for extortion and
accepting free plumbing.
St. Paul officials had been
following an internal policy,
with the approval of the city
attorney, that allowed officials
to accept gifts that benefit the
city or its citizens. In order for
an official to take a gift, the
policy called for the City
Council to pass a public reso-
lution accepting that gift,
either beforehand or after-
ward -
The mayor's office con-
tended Nelson's gift to Kelly
on April 28 benefited the city
in part because the mayor dis-
cussed next year's National
s _ A114enr
President Dan Bostrom and
Members Jerry Blakey,
Chris Coleman, Pat Harris
and Jim Reiter. Casting no
votes were Members Jay
Benanav and Kathy Lantry.
Benanav had wanted to
seek an opinion from the
state Campaign Finance and
Public Disclosure Board on
whether the trip and tickets
for Kelly and others were
acceptable under the state
gift ban law, which has been
interpreted differently by dif-
ferent municipalities. Howev-
er, a move by Coleman satis-
fied Benanay.
After passage of the first
resolution accepting the gifts.
Coleman offered another that
requires city officials to follow
the narrowest application of
the law from now on. The res-
olution would, for example,
not allow Kelly to enter Wild
games on a press pass, which
ho has rtnne in the oast.
LOCAL NEWS WWW.TWINCIT1ES.COM ■ ST. PAUL PIONEER PRESS
SOUTH SUBURBAN
DAKOTA COUNTY
Eagan, Burnsville
beaches losing
their lifeguards
Budget concerns are forcing staff cuts
RY AMY SHERMAN
Pioneer Press
A popular Dakota County
beach in Eagan will no longer
have lifeguards in an effort to
curb expenses.
And swimmers at Schulze
Beach in Lebanon Hills Region-
al Park who want snacks should
pack a picnic basket, because
the county will no longer sell
concessions — a money loser in
the past - -
of many ways parks depart-
ments are trimming expenses.
Another example: Dakota Coun-
ty has put plans on hold to build
an off -leash dog park.
Nationwide, unguarded
beaches are becoming the
norm, Dakota County Parks
Director Steve Sullivan said.
The other county beach — Lake
Byllesby — is already unguard-
ed.
Last year, about 23.000 visi-
tors came to Schulze Beach.
- i 'mm ry
sa )u a
percent of what it used to be. garden. dent, is undergoing a second began planting the bombs in U.S. District Court to charges of the mail to rural Iowans in th
Scars left from injuries from "It will never be back to nor- round of psychological testing at mailboxes in Illinois, then using an explosive device to Sageville area.
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TWIN C I r 1 E S' HOME PAGE
Featuring
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IEEE
TOM OLMSCHEID, ASSOCIATED PRESS
ouse Minority Leader Matt Entenza, DFL-St, Paul, holds a puppet as he tells his Republican majority colleagues to quit being the
uppets of the Taxpayers League. The House was debating its tax bill, which passed Wednesday 70-63.
FROM PAGE 1C
Bill shrinks
aid
(continued)
was 70-63. Eleven Republicans
voted against it; only one Demo-
crat, Rep. Ann Lenczewski of
Bloomington, voted for It.
The bill would:
• Impose levy limits that
would bar cities from raising
property taxes to recover the
state aid they would lose thLs year
and create reverse referendums
permitting property owners to
demand a direct vote by citizens
on property tax increases.
• Lower the maximum rebate
the state will give political con-
tributors from $50 to $25.
• Require cigarette and liquor
wholesalers to speed up their tax
payments to the state to artifi-
cially boost state revenues dur-
ing the next budget period.
• Reduce Metropolitan Coun-
cil property taxes by 10 percent
from this year's levels.
The bill would allow the
Department of Trade and Eco-
nomic Development to desig-
nate 10 tax-free zones of up to
000 aces apiece which new
�uinses wo pay no
income, sales or property taxes
for 12 years. Two more zones,
aimed particularly at biotech-
nology and health industries,
would offer similar tax breaks.
The most controversial part
of the bill was the big change It
would make in state -funded aid
for cities. The result was a fund-
ing formula for this year and
next that would give cities about
$100 million more than Pawlen-
ty had recommended over the
two years, but far less than they
now receive.
Cutting state aid to cities,
particularly the "grandfather-
ing" that preserves aid at pre-
1993 levels, is a key part of Paw-
lenty's effort to balance
Minnesota's budget through
spending reductions.
Across the state, the two-
year reductions in state aid
would average 30 percent. The
metropolitan area would lose 43
percent, and outstate Minnesota
would lose 19 percent.
On a 71-62 vote, the House
defeated an amendment, favored
by many rural legislators of both
parties, that would have taken
state -paid mass transit spending
that flows to Minneapolis,
St. Paul and the suburbs and used
it to increase state aid to cities.
The amendment, offered by
Rep. Dan Dorman, R-Albert Lea,
would have benefited the center
cities and aatate communities
at the expense of the suburbs.
Under current law, total aid
to cities — a combination of
local government aid and state -
paid property tax relief provid-
ed through the Market Value
Credit — would be $672 million
this year, The bill passed by the
House would cut that to $511
million this year, and then to
$472 million in 2004.
1)orman's amendment would
have set the 2004 aid at $602 mil-
lion.
Dorman said the vote on his
amendment was the most
important vote many rural leg-
islators would take during their
House careers.
Opponents of the amendment
said the transit funding is the
only significant state money that
many outer -ring suburbs receive.
Taking it away would force sub-
urbs to return to levying proper-
ty taxes, as they did before tax
changes two years ago, to pay for
bus service. Fbr many suburbs,
the loss of the transit money
would have been much greater
than any increased state aid they
would receive.
Bloomington, for example,
gets less than $2 million in local
government aid and the market
value credit aid, but it would
have lost $3.6 million in transit
funding under Dorman's
amendment.
In the Sent, Democratic -
Farmer -Labor leaders have not
yet announced any plan for
restructuring state aid to cities.
Nor has the Senate taken a
vote, even in committee, an the
House plan to have the Minneso
to Lottery install slot machines
at the Canterbury Park race-
track — a measure that would
produce $100 million a year to
pay for the local government
funding built into the House bill.
Senate Majority Leader John
I1ottinger, DFL-St. Peter, has
predicted the Senate would not
approve a casino this year. How-
ever, the Senate Tax Committee
is considering not one, but four,
major gambling bills: the Can-
terbury legislation, two compet-
ing proposals for casinos in the
northern suburbs and a plan to
allow bars to install up to 10 slot
machines each.
In debate on the House bill
Wednesday, Democrats said the
reductions in state aid to cities
would lead to property tax
increases as city officials try to
maintain current services.
"Property taxes are going to
skyrocket under your bill," said
Rep. Tom Rukavina, DFL-Vir-
ginia- He said the state should,
instead, raise income taxes.
"It's always easy to say 'Let's
raise taxes,"' shot back Rep.
Phil Krinkle, R-Shoreview. "It's
much more difficult to live with-
in our means."
•
Local government aid cuts
Here's how the Minnesota House plan would reduce aid to cities.
Figures include local government aid and state -paid property tax
relief provided through the Market Value Credit program. They
represent total aid per person living in each city.
State aid
per person
Statewide
Metro
Non -metro
TWIN CITIES
St Paul
Minneapolis
OUTSTATE CmE5
Duluth
Mankato
Rochester
St. Cloud
SUBURBS
Afton
Anoka
Apple Valley
Arden Hills
Bayport
Birchwood Village
Blaine
Burnsville
Centerville
Circle Pines
Coates
Columbia Heights
Coon Rapids
Cottage Grove
Deephaven
Eagan
Falcon Heights
Farmington
Forest Lake
Fridley
Gem Lake
Grant
Ham Lake
Hastings
Hugo
Inver Grove Heights
Lake Elmo
Lake St. Croix Beach
Lakeland
Lakeland Shores
Lakeville
Landfall
Leudetdale
Lexington
Lilydale
Lino Lakes
Little Canada
Mahtomedi
Maplewood
Marine on St. Croix
Mendota
Mendota Heights
Mounds View
New Brighton
Newport
North Oaks
North St. Paul
Oak Park Heights
Oakdale
Rosemount
Roseville
Shoreview
South St. Paul
Spring Lake Park
St. Anthony Village
St. Francis
St. Paul Park
Stillwater
Sunfish Lake
Vadnais Heights
West St. Paul
White Bear Lake
Source, Minnesota House
2003
before
cuts
5168
5118
S261
2003
with
proposed
cuts
5128
584
$223
1281 S21s
5329 5262
5367
$309
$148
$234
$18
S123
S34
512
$95
$21
548
$32
$35
$86
$20
$178
$71
556
$7
521
$51
$74
543
$93
1,13
58
$28
$120
$33
$43
S12
$67
S68
S13
$29
S54
S158
S182
$40
S32
524
$37
540
528
571
$20
$87
S51
5125
$4
$108
S26
$50
$56
$20
519
5197
$66
$50
$85
$135
5120
$3
$16
5107
S51
5323
S263
$110
$194
SO
589
S2
SO
S58
S4
S21
SO
$6
$60
510
5140
$46
$26
SO
S0
S32
$40
S17
S66
S0
S0
S10
S80
S8
514
SO
S41
S48
S0
$3
SO
S125
S150
S9
5o
54
S9
$12
$0
$47
S0
$62
S25
$96
SO
$87
$0
S24
S7
$0
SO
S158
$30
$17
$62
$111
$72
SO
SO
$80
531
2004
with
proposed
cuts
S118
567
S211
$306
S244
$75
S183
SO
S82
S2
S0
558
S4
$21
SO
S6
$32
$10
5105
$29
S25
SO
SO
$32
$29
S17
541
S0
$0
$10
$58
$8
S14
SO
S41
S48
SO
S3
S0
$125
S150
S9
So
S4
$9
S12
S0
547
S0
S51
S17
S96
50
587
50
S24
S7
50
S0
S124
530
S17
562
$91
S72
$0
SO
S55
$29
PIONEER PR1 i5 •
�o, cl003
Thiginfeek
Lagan
Affordable housing advocates will
not appeal case against Eagan
Groups cen,,oun«e they have found 'common ground' with city
br Frin JnlPfl 4)fl
Three affordable housing
advocate groups whose lawsuit
against the city of Eagan was dis-
missed have announced they will
not seek an appeal.
The suit. which also named
the Metropolitan Council, was
dismissed by a Ramsey County
judge in February.
The suit alleged that Eagan
had intentionally created exclu-
sionary housing and had resisted
using tools that would set aside
land for affordable housing.
But the groups, who filed the
suit last August, said they have
now found common ground with
the new Eagan City Council.
A statement released by the
groups. which include the
Metropolitan Interfaith Council
on Affordable Housing
(MICAH), the Community
Stabilization Project (CSP) and
the Alliance for Metropolitan
Stability, said the city of Eagan
has made some progress by
acknowledging the housing chal-
lenges in its community.
Mike Wold. an Eagan resident
and MICAH leader, said several
important factors have changed
since the suit was filed.
For instance, he said, the
council recently approved Tax
Increment Financing for Cedar
Villas, a mixed -income develop-
ment with 54 affordable apart-
ments. The council has also stat-
ed that one of its priorities is to
create new opportunities for
mixed -income housing. he said.
"We are cautiously optimistic
www. t h i sweek-on l i ne. com
about working with this new city
touncil to address our city's cur-
rent and future housing needs."
he said.
Eagan's new mayor, Pat
Geagan, recently met with local
representatives of MICAH.
"It was a good meeting. a
good dialogue," Geagan said.
Some of the housing has
changed in Eagan, he said,
including affordable apartment
units that have been a nverted to
condos, and additional senior
See lawsuit, 6A
Lawsuit/from IA
housing units.
He said that Eagan will handle
housing developments on a
"case -by -case basis;' but one of
the new city council initiatives in
2003 is to compile data on
Eagan's current housing stock.
"We just need to get a handle
on our numbers;' he said.
Assessing the current housing
stock is part of an effort to
encourage land use opportunities
for the creation of a diverse mix
of housing options, he sid.
Although dialogue with the
city has been encouraging, Wold
said the need for additional
affordable housing is still quite
critical.
"Many members of our own
community who proitimme,i.with
vital services every day includ-
ing customer service representa-
tives. child care workers. home
health aid., nursing aids, bank
tellers and beginning teachers —
can't find housing that doesn't
take a big bite out of their wages."
he said.
While the groups have decid-
ed not to appeal their case against
Eagan. they will appeal the
judge's decision to dismiss the
case against the Metropolitan
Council.
The Met Council. they said,
has failed to meet its legal
responsibility under the
Metropolitan Land Use Planning
Act (LUPA) to keep cities
informed and give them direction
on the affordable housing short-
"1 have a daughter who works
two jobs in Eagan," said
Varymouna Omar, a hound mem-
bc'r of tISPNIShe and her family
would love to live chooser to her
work. But the Met Council does-
n't seem interested in knowing
how many families like us are out
there."
Peter Bell, chairman of Met
Council, said he is disappointed
by the decision to appeal, and
while it is within the groups'
rights to do so, he feels the suit is
without merit.
The agency continues to do its
duty. he said.
'The judge was quite clear in
her ruling that they don't have the
standing to bring this suit;' he
said.
Erin Johnson is at
eagan. thisweeki ecnr-inc. corn.
it)e inti /� oL003
Learning the hard way
Flamm M R,i OY,,drf
Henry Sibley High School, in conjunction with the
West St. Paul and Mendota Heights police and
fire departments, held a mock car crash
Wednesday, May 7. The entire student body gath-
ered in the school's parking lot to witness the
event, which was scheduled days before prom.
The event portrayed a car, filled with prom -goers
who had been drinking, that crashes into another
car with a couple and their young child. The
young child is killed and the couple injured in the
mock scenario. Schools around the area stage
mock car crashes to educate students about the
dangers of drinking and driving before one of the
biggest social events of the year.
ina io,
Black bears are spotted in Eagan
and
Cougars, foxes a coyotes also seen
On April 19, Steve Rolland ern Minnesota. but a sighting
was making dinner when he as far south as Eagan is rare.
looked out his kitchen window "We've had scattered
and saw the mother bear and reports of bears around
her cubs in his backyard. Stillwater," said Lou
When he opened his patio Cornicelli, DNR game project
door to get a better look, the coordinator. "But 1 have not
bears ran toward Highway 13, heard of them around Eagan."
he reported. The sighting surprised even
According to the Eagan Animal Control Officer
Department of Natural Kathleen Gilbertson.
Resources (DNR), black bears "1 find it almost unbeliev-
are common throughout north- Sae Bears, 6A
by Erin Johnson
THISWEEK HE.WSPAPFRS
Apparently it's not only the
human residents who consider
Eagan a desirable place to
live. Several other species
seem to appreciate the com-
forts of the city. as well.
According to police. a
female black bear and her two
cubs were recently spotted in
the backyard of an Eagan resi-
dence on Skyline Drive.
•6A May to, 2003 THISWEEK
Bears/from 11A
able that we'd have bear down
this far, but anything's possi-
ble," she said. "I'm having all
these thoughts like, Did they
come through downtown St.
Paul?"'
Actually. she said. they are
probably coming from nearby'
Fort Snelling Park.
The homeowner who spot-
ted the bears lives about one
block from the park. she said.
This is only the second
time bears have been spotted
in Eagan, she said. There was
another sighting last year near
the Delta Dental offices at
Highway 13 and Yankee
Doodle Road.
"So evidently they are com-
EG
ing up from the (Mississippi)
river," she said.
Cornicelli said that bears
have been expanding their
range around the state. They
are typically shy animals. he
said, but they can get used to
being around people.
Bears are attracted to
garbage. he said. so home-
owners should keep their
garbage locked up. When
bears find a source of food
they will usually return regu-
larly.
People should also exercise
common sense if they spot a
bear and not attempt to
approach it.
"They're typically not
aggressive, but a female with
cubs will be more aggressive."
he said.
Bears aren't the only ani-
mals showing up in Eagan.
Gilbertson said.
During the construction of
Central Park, for instance,
work came to a halt when a
family of foxes was discov-
ered to have made their den
there.
"State law says you cannot
take foxes from dens, so the
back of the park was put on
hold." she said.
The foxes eventually decid-
ed to move on. and work was
able to resume, she said.
Also, a cougar was spotted
by a resident this spring, and
"we've had coyote calls like
crazy," she said.
Gilbertson herself had a
recent wildlife encounter that
landed her on CNN. She took
a goose with an arrow through
its wing from Eagan to the
Wildlife Rehabilitation Center
in Roseville.
"It didn't get any major
organs," she said. "Infection
was the only potential prob-
lem."
At the rehabilitation center.
the arrow was removed by a
veterinarian while the cameras
rolled.
Maybe it's not the quality
of life in Eagan, after all.
Perhaps these creatures are
just seeking their 15 minutes.
Erin Johnson is ai
eagan. thisweek @ecm-
in.c. corn.
TLsprice
� o, aov3
u THISWEEK May 10, 2003 3A
Holz Farm will
host spring festival
The Friends of the Farm
volunteer organization will
hold its "Annual Spring
Festival" celebration
Saturday, May 17 from noon
to 4 p.m. at the Historic Holz
Farm in Eagan.
The event is free and open
to the pubic.
It will feature pony rides.
musical entertainment. 1940s
vintage equipment. displays
and demonstrations, hands-on
cow milking on Oreo the vir-
tual cow. hayrides. food con-
cessions. live barnyard ani-
mals and more.
Holz Farm is located at
4665 Manor Drive in Eagan.
For more information. call
Eagan Parks and Recreation
at (651) 675-5507.
City of Eagan will hold
amateur photo contest
The city of Eagan will
sponsor "Picture Eagan." an
amateur photography contest
to capture quintessential
images of the community.
Photographs may be used
in city publications and on the
city's Web site to highlight the
city's history, key landmarks,
views, neighborhoods and
parks and to visually convey
the community.
The 2003 contest has three
categories: Best Historic View
of Eagan; Best Scenic View of
Eagan: and Best View of
Community Facilities.
Prizes include $100 for
best overall photo; $50 for
best historic view; $50 for
best scenic view; and $50 for
best view of community facil-
ities.
The contest is open to all
ages.
Participants in the contest
must be Eagan residents. This
contest is for amateur photog-
raphers only: no professional
photographers may enter.
To enter, submit up to three
5 x 7 color or black and white
prints.
Disks and slides will not be
accepted.
Each entry must include an
accompanying entry form that
includes the category being
entered, the photographer's
name, address, phone number
and a one sentence description
of each submitted photo.
Send photos to:
Communications Department,
City of Eagan, 3830 Pilot
Knob Road. Eagan. MN
55123.
The deadline for submis-
sion is Monday. Aug. 4 at 4:30
p.m.
All photo entries become
the property of the city of
Eagan and are non -returnable.
Entrants agree entered pho-
tos (with proper credit) can be
published or displayed.
Photos will be judged by a
panel of independent judges.
All winning entries will be
displayed on the city's Web
page.
For complete information,
visit www.cityofeagan.com.
Sierra Club, Fri
Eagan Park hold
ends of Patrick
community event
Members of Friends of Participants will learn
Patrick Eagan Park and the about the local planning
Sierra Club will hold a corn- process and tools that can be
munity event focusing on how used in Eagan to preserve
to organize preservation open space.
efforts for the Eagan Core They will also get a chance
Greenway, on Saturday, May to meet leaders active in the
17. area.
A workshop will be held The event will be held at
from 10 a.m. to I p.m., fol- United Methodist Church,
lowed by lunch. 3945 Lexington Avenue South
A guided nature hike in Eagan. just north of the
through the greenway will Eagan Art House and the
take place at 2 p.m. entrance to Patrick Eagan
The event will help educate Park.
the community about the To sign up, call (612) 659-
importance of open space and 9124 or send an e-mail to
specifically about preserving Organizer@FriendsofPatrickE
the Eagan Core Greenway, aganPark.org or Trevor.
including steps already taken Russell@SierraClub.org.
and challenges that remain.
frf)e.e/! (Rea./ 4S/a/C
/ o, J. o 03
Dakota County CDA
receives honor of
'high performer'
The Dakota County
Community Development
Agency (CDA) has received des-
ignation as a "high performer' by
the U.S. Department of Housing
and Urban Development in its
annual Section 8 Management
Assessment Program (SEMAP)
certification. The CDA received a
final SEMAP score of 96 per-
cent.
The SEMAP score is deter-
mined by a measurement of 15
different indicators. These indi-
cators rate the CDA's manage-
ment of the Section 8 program on
the extent to which program
funds are fully utilized, the accu-
racy and timeliness of eligibility
and benefit determinations, and
the adequacy of lnonitoring for
housing quality standards.
The CDA administers approx-
imately 2.200 Section 8 housing
choice vouchers in Dakota
County. This program brings
together participants, rental prop-
erty owner, and the CDA to offer
options in safe and affordable
housing.
For more information about
the CDA's Section 8 Rental
Assistance Program, call the
CDA at (651) 675-1400 Of visit
its Web site at
www.dakotacda.org.
Eagan pours foundation for art programs
Contribution will cover Art Park. it laid down a founda-
tion last week to ensure the park
will offer its popular programs
this summer.
"The city is beginning to play
ball with us," Anthony Caponi
said with a laugh. "It only took 30
years, but I think they are coming
While Eagan continues to around."
mold the process through which When Caponi, the founder of
it might buy part of the Caponi the park, appeared before the
insurance for summer
BY JOSHUA NICHOLS
&r Newspapers
Eagan City Council in March to
present his proposal to preserve
the 60-acre park permanently, he
also noted that the programs
might not be possible this sum-
mer because of liability con-1
cerns.
The city jumped in, working
with Caponi to find a solution.
CAPONI: To Page 19A
Caponi
From Page IA
That solution was announced during
the City Council's May 6 meeting when it
approved a contribution of $1,200 to
cover the liability issue as part of its con-
sent agenda.
That contribution will cover the in-
surance costs necessary to run the park's
2003 Summer Cultural and Artistic Per-
formances and Programs.
Most funding for the programs will
continue to come from the Metropolitan
Regional Arts Council and the Minneso-
ta State Arts Board. Like many govern-
mental units, Caponi is still waiting for
the legislative session to wrap up to see
exactly how much funding will still be
available.
While plans are ongoing for the sum-
mer programs and a lot depends on what
funding the Caponi Art Park receives
this year, Caponi said he has "a lot of
irons in the fire."
"I think the more the situation gets
worse, the more we are needed," Caponi
said. "It's an escape for people and it's the
only cultural activity in Eagan."
The city wants to see the programs
continue at the park because they pro-
vide a valuable service to the communi-
ty, Mayor Pat Geagan said.
"While we look at this proposal and
get everything in order, we want the park
to be able to continue to operate like it
has in the past," Geagan said. "It's an im-
portant part of Eagan."
Although city staff explored a num-
ber of options to resolve the insurance
issue. the contribution was chosen be-
cause it is the most direct, timely and ef-
ficient answer to the problem. said City
Administrator Tom Hedges.
Although not specifically budgeted,
the money will be transferred from the
Eagan Parks and Recreation Depart-
ment budget with a subsequent budget
adjustment later in the year.
Caponi, 82, on various occasions over
the past two decades has offered to sell
the park, which was recently appraised
at $4 million, to the city. His new propos-
al takes a different course than that sug-
gested in the past.
Under Caponi's proposal to the city, he
would sell 30 acres of the park to the city
and another 20 acres to a yet -to -be -
formed governing board. The remaining
10 acres would be a gift to Macalester Col-
lege, where Caponi worked as a professor
and chairman of the art department.
The area of the park the city would
purchase under that proposal would be
the southernmost portion of the park.
That area has an estimated value of $1.75
million, said Eagan Parks and Recre-
ation Director Ken Vraa.
After the land purchase, Eagan would
maintain the whole 60-acre park. while
the governing board would run the pro-
gramming for the park.
"Ultimately the solution is unavoid-
able," Caponi said. "The city is looking
for open space and with this plan they get
open space with some programs to go
along with it."
Last month the City Council asked the
Eagan Advisory Parks Commission
(APrCI to evaluate the proposal before
making a final decision.
The process will examine how the pro-
posal fits with the city's existing parks
system. review how the governing board
would work. identify potential funding
sources and explore other legal issues.
Hedges said the review process is nec-
essary to ensure the proposal is the right
way for the city to get involved in the
park and to answer all questions before
moving ahead.
Caponi has used the park as a way to
use nature to teach art for more than 30
years. However. it wasn't until 1992 that
the park and its Learning Center were
incorporated as a nonprofit. The Art
Park has been a venue for art workshops
and outdoor performances since 1995.
Caponi said he hopes the city's
process will lead to the permanent pro-
tection of the park.
"I am thinking bigger than just my-
self," he said. "I am not just concerned
about keeping the park open while I am
alive, but forever."
Mtn ektfreeit-
Maj oa3
Housing groups see improving
relationship with City of Eagan
MICAH, other groups decide not to
appeal dismissed affordable
housing suit against city
BY JOSHUA NICHOIS
Sun Newspapers
Affordable housing advocates and the
city of Eagan haven't had the best work-
ing relationship but there are signs that
might be changing.
A group of housing advocates that
had been suing the city and the Metro-
politan Council since last summer de-
cided earlier this month not to pursue an
appeal of the suit against the city.
"A number of important factors have
changed in Eagan since we filed legal ac-
tion last year," said Mike Wold, an Eagan
resident and a member of the Metropol-
itan Interfaith Council on Affordable
Housing (MICAH).
Wold said the City Council's support
of the county's use of tax increment fi-
nancing for the Cedar Villas affordable
housing complex and other council ac-
tions are signs the city is willing to be
more flexible with mixed -income hous-
ing.
"We are cautiously optimistic about
working with this new City Council to
address our city's current and future
housing needs," Wold said. "However, we
want to make it clear that the need for ad-
ditional affordable housing is still quite
critical."
Wold said another sign of the city's
willingness to work on housing issues
was an April meeting Eagan Mayor Pat
Geagan had with local MICAH represen-
tatives.
Housing
From Page 2A
"It was a good meeting, a good dia-
logue," Geagan said.
Eagan will handle housing develop-
ments on a "case -by -rase basis," Geagan
said.
However, he also said that one of the
new City Council initiatives in 2003 is to
compile data on Eagan's current housing
stock as part of an effort to encourage
land use opportunities for the creation of
a diverse mix of housing options.
MICAH was joined in the suits along
with the Alliance for Metropolitan Sta-
bility and the Community Stabilization
Project (CSP).
The suit alleged that Eagan has inten-
tionally created exclusionary housing
and has consistently resisted using
methods to set aside land for the produc-
tion of affordable housing as required by
law.
The suit also claimed that Eagan had
violated the Minnesota Human Rights
Act in regard to affordable housing by
discriminating against minorities and
those on public assistance.
The suit sought to compel Eagan to
preserve land for more affordable and
higher density rental units.
The groups accused the Met Council
of not following the 1976 Land Use Plan-
ning Act by requiring local communities
to meet the region's needs for low- and
moderate -income housing.
In tossing out the suit in February,
Ramsey County Judge Paulette Flynn
wrote that the housing groups had
"failed to establish that any act of dis-
crimination occurred within the statuto-
ry period."
While the groups won't pursue an ap-
peal of the suit against Eagan, they have
HOUSING: To Page 22A
asked the Minnesota Court of Appeals to
reconsider the dismissal of the Met
Council suit.
"I have a daughter who works two jobs
in Eagan," said Maymouna Omar, a CSP
board member. "She and her family
would love to live closer to her work, but
the Met Council doesn't seem interested
in knowing how many families like us
are out there."
CSP is a grassroots organization that
works with low-income tenants. people
of color and new immigrants on housing
issues. MICAH organizes in more than
200 congregations in the Twin Cities
metropolitan region for policy changes
that preserve and produce affordable,
fair housing.
Wold said that there still is a lot of
progress to be made and that MICAH
hopes to continue to work with the city
on the issue.
"Many members of our own commu-
s
tAfeerCr
l5)apo3
www.mnSun.com
pity who provide us with vital services
every day, including customer service
representatives, child care workers,
home health aides, nursing aides, bank
tellers and beginning teachers, can't find
housing that doesn't cost them a sub-
stantial portion of their wages," Wold
said.
While the city released no further
comment on the housing groups' deci-
sion, in the past while denying the state
ments in the suit, Eagan leaders hal.
pointed out that:
• The city spent more than $3.1 million
on affordable housing in the 1990s and
has committed more than three-quarter.,
of a million dollars for an affordable:
housing project in 2003.
• According to the Met Council's fugal
housing performance scores for 2002,
Eagan scores higher than 138 of the 185
communities listed in providing lifecy-
cle and affordable housing.
eu rr-an ma d. o 03
Ma OPINION
Thursday, May 15, 2003
These pages are provided as a forum to debate ideas of interest and importance in our communities. Signed letters should be no longer than 450 words. Include daytime and evening phone numbers
and address for verification purposes. Submitted letters and columns become the property of Sun Newspapers, which reserves the right to edit and publish them in any format, including online.
City Council's changes over past few years for the better
Once in a while a look back at
where we have been can be an
enlightening and sometimes
entertaining glimpse of how far
we have come.
Nowhere is that more fitting
than when looking at the
progress the Eagan City Coun-
cil has made over the past sev-
eral years.
Almost immediately after
being hired for this position
more than three years ago, peo-
ple I worked with would laugh
as they warned me about the
City Council I was newly as-
signed to cover.
My first introduction to
then -Mayor Pat Awada came at
a press conference she called to
debunk a forged letter that ap-
peared to be from her stating
she was looking at running for
a higher office.
It was a sign of the wacky
things that would follow over
the next three years as I covered
the council. I've seen council
members storm out of the coun-
cil chambers and I've seen a lot
of controversial issues that left
some residents feeling as
though their city government,
rightly or wrongly, was dys-
functional.
Then I take a look at where
the city is right now. There have
been no huge controversies for
a while.
That makes for a calm,
peaceful city, albeit a pretty bor-
ing news day.
From my observation of the
new council, which is now in its
fifth month of existence, there
is something that was often
missing in the past and some-
thing that has since disap-
peared.
Gone, it appears, are the at-
tempts of back stabbing among
the council members. Gone are
MEL
JOSHUA
NICHOLS
the snide com-
ments and the
squabbling that
were all too fre-
quent during
meetings.
The process
to change that
atmosphere has
been going on
for the past 18
months. It has
brought on a
better working
relationship for
the council, a more committed
city government and a feeling
that residents will actually be
listened to.
When the last crop of council
candidates was running for
election this past fall, some-
thing often heard was that
Eagan would now focus on
maintaining what it had and
there wouldn't be big projects
Eagan
community
editor
ahead.
That has been the case since
January. The council has been
staying the course and doing a
good job. It has shown a com-
mitment to working with
groups that previously it had
what can best be described as
an acrimonious relationship.
The council recently signed
on to an effort by the Friends of
Patrick Eagan Park to secure a
grant to preserve the Eagan
Core Greenway, part of which
was previously and controver-
sially studied by the city for use
as a golf course.
Mayor Pat Geagan has been
committed to providing a fair
housing process in the city and
met last month with the Metro-
politan Interfaith Council on
Affordable Housing.
I'm sure it won't be too long
before some controversial issue
rises up in Eagan and the coun-
cil chamber at the Municipal
Center is once again filled to
overflow with people wearing
brightly colored buttons and
holding signs.
Eagan has a population of
residents who are committed to
seeing the city continue to pro-
vide quality services and be a
good place to live. It's great to
see that kind of commitment to
the community.
It's an oft -repeated statement
at government meetings at all
levels that "you can't make
everybody happy"
What I think the Eagan City
Council has learned is that in
those situations it's not
whether everybody leaves
happy with the end result, but
happy in the process that got
them there.
Joshua Nichols is the commu-
nity editor for the Eagan Sun -
Current.
Photography contest to
highlight Eagan
The City of Eagan has announced the
"Picture Eagan" amateur photography
contest, designed to capture quintessen-
tial images of the community:
Photographs may be used in city pub-
lications and on the city's Web site to
highlight the Eagan's history. its key
landmarks, beautiful views and vistas.
and the desirable nature of its neighbor•
hoods and parks.
The 2003 contest has three categories:
• Best Historic View of Eagan — This
may include. but is not limited to, photos
of such things as the 1914 Town Hall, the
grandfather tree at Central Park, the bell
in the City Council chambers. Holz
Farm, etc.
• Best Scenic View of Eagan — This
could be photos of lakes or parks. neigh-
borhoods or skylines. along the river. or
down that road.
• Best View of Community Facilities
— This could include the new Eagan
Community Center, the new Eagan Ro-
tary Band Shell. the Municipal Center
garden, Cascade Bay the Civic Arena.
Moonshine Park, ball fields, or a school.
Pictures featuring people that might
be easily identifiable must have signed
releases.
The contest is open to Eagan residents
of all ages. City employees. their fami-
lies and professional photographers are
not eligible.
Each entry must be a 5-inch-by-7-inch
color or black or white print photo ac-
companied by an entry form including
the photo's category, the photographer's
name, address, phone number and a one
sentence description of each submitted
photo.
A maximum of three photos per per-
son may be submitted with the deadline
set for 4:30 p.m.. Monday Aug. 4.
All photo entries become the property
of the City of Eagan and are non -return-
able and entrants agree entered photos
(with proper credit) can be published or
displayed.
A panel of independent judges will
judge the photos. All winning entries
will be displayed on a city Web page.
The grand prize for best overall photo
is $100, with $50 prizes going to the win-
ner in each of the three categories. Pho-
tos should be submitted to Communica-
tions Department, City of Eagan. 3830
Pilot Knob Road. Eagan, MN 55123.
Information: wwwcityofeagan.com.
Sin � �✓�...�
PUBLIC
SAFETY
Eagan set for May Safe,
Sober campaign
The Eagan Police Department will
join 350 other Minnesota law enforce-
ment agencies in the Safe and Sober May
Mobilization effort.
From Monday, May 19. to Sunday,
June 1, the department will conduct en-
hanced patrol efforts committed to find-
ing and ticketing unbuckled motorists.
Last year was the deadliest year on
Minnesota roads in two decades. Vehicle
crashes claimed the lives of 657 people
and 333 of those deaths were attributed
to non -seat belt use.
In Dakota County last year, nine peo-
ple were killed and 603 motorists were in-
jured in vehicle crashes. None of the
nine persons killed in Dakota County
were wearing seat belts at the time of the
crash.
In2002, law enforcement agencies in
Minnesota saw a 6 percent rise in seat
belt use after concerted enforcement ef-
forts were conducted.
The Safe and Sober campaign is fund-
ed by the National Highway Traffic Safe-
ty Administration and administered by
the Minnesota Office of Traffic Safety.
Information651-675-5700.
cn--7-7 u /:-? 0 /1—;CSS
PI /3) c,)0O3
REGIONAL
3Mto1ayoffupto3O
at Eagan facility
3M Co. is shedding up to 30 production jobs at its Eagan plant
as it moves two manufacturing lines to its .Juarez, Mexico. sub-
sidiary by the end of the year. The two lines produce vacuum
bags and industrial water filters. Company spokesman Ron
Wenaas said 3M is shifting the production to be closer to the cus-
tomers it serves. Some of the workers may find other jobs at 3M,
Wenaas said. No pinks slips have been issued but employees
have been notified. About 275 people work at 3M Eagan. It is the
first time in several years there have been layoffs at the Eagan
facility, Wenaas said. "It's discouraging," said a 35-year-old man-
ager at the plant who was notified. "The morale is low."
www.mnSun.com
Eagan Police honor I I at
commendation ceremony
Barge captain who helped rescue
man hanging from bridge among
those saluted
BY JOSHUA NICHOLS
Sun Newspapers
Unselfish service to the community:
the criteria used for recognition of three
citizens and eight members of the Eagan
Police Department at a May 13 commen-
dation ceremony.
Among those recognized at the Eagan
N1 unicipal Center was Thomas Ericksen,
a barge captain who helped Eagan Police
untangle a man hanging from a rope
from the Cedar Avenue walking bridge
May 1, 2002.
When police responded to the scene,
they found the man hanging about 15 feet
above the Minnesota River and were un-
able to reach him by either land or boat.
Police contacted Ericksen. who was com-
manding a barge approaching the area.
by radio and asked for his assistance.
Ericksen was able to stop and pull his
barges to the bank. He and his crew un-
hooked their tug boat from the barges
and were able to cut the male down from
the ropes. The male was quickly brought
to shore and awaiting medical person-
nel.
Ericksen received the Citizen Certifi-
cate of Commendation for his actions.
Eagan Police Chief Kent Therkelsen
said the awards are given out annually to
coincide with the National Police Week,
which was May 11-17 this year
The department can reward officers
who go beyond the call of duty with sev-
eral different levels of awards. Those lev-
els include Medals of Honor, Medals of
Valor. Awards of Merit and Certificates
of Commendation.
Others recognized at the commenda-
tion ceremony included:
• Eagan resident Doug 13artosh. who
called police Aug. 6, 2002, after witness-
ing two men break a neighbor's window
and enter the home. Police responded to
the house and caught an adult and juve-
nile burglarizing the home. Bartosh re-
ceived the Citizen Certificate of Com-
mendation.
• Eagan resident Michael Cookas also
received a Citizen Certificate of Com-
mendation for his help in catching an-
other burglar earlier this year. Eagan 911
dispatcher Kathryn Falk also received a
certificate of commendation for her ac-
tions in the same incident.
On the morning of Feb. 26. 2003,
Cookas was working in his home office,
when he heard a loud crash in the u
stairs kitchen of his home.
Cookas went to the kitchen and foun
an unknown male standing in hi.
kitchen. After the suspect fled Cookas
home on foot. Cookas called 911 and gav
the dispatcher a description of the sus
t
�He also got into his own vehicle an
started to follow a second suspect driv
away from the scene. He remained on h'
cell phone with the Eagan dispatche
until officers were able to get behind the
suspect's vehicle and stop it. The othe
suspect was apprehended a short tim
later by other Eagan officers.
• Detectives Dave Bork and Mike Fin
eran received the Certificate of Co
mendation for their role in stoppin
child abuse involving an Eagan family.
POLICE: To Mtge 23
www.mnSun.com
Eagan City Council agrees to
change in creek buffer rules
Council also discusses maagage
therapy licenses, temporary liquor
license changes
BY JOSHUA NICHOIS
Sun Newspapers
Eagan will soon match its zoning re-
quirements around streams and creeks
with the state's less restrictive stan-
dards.
The City Council, during its special
meeting May 13, directed staff to draft
the changes to the city's ordinances.
The area most affected by the city's
requirements is a strip between the Min-
nesota River and Highway 13, where sev-
eral Eagan residents' homes fall within a
"buffer" along Harnack and Kennealy
creeks.
Because the creeks are considered
"tributaries" by both state and city stan-
dards, they have a 300-foot shoreland
buffer restricting development.
However, Eagan's restrictions are
stiffer than what the state will allow in
that buffer area. While Eagan doesn't
allow any development within tha
buffer, the minimum state standards
allow residential development under
certain guidelines.
Those standards were put in place in
the early 1990s, but until the creeks were
mapped. city and DNR officials didn't
know what properties were affected by
that 300-foot buffer.
According to Eagan Senior Planner
Mike Ridley, the city and the DNR
mapped the two creeks last summer,
which created an outline for the buffer
and showed which existing homes fell
within it.
"As it is now, their houses are an al-
lowed use, but they technically can't ex-
pand," Ridley said.
Pat Lynch, the DNR's south metro
area hydrologist, said that just as any
other zoning change would affect exist-
ing structures, the situation creates ex-
isting non -conforming uses.
"The city would treat those structures
as it would with any other zoning
changes," Lynch said.
BUFFER: To Page 28A
TREE f= 3''' FARM
Bakken: s,-z %-/„
Cedar Grove
study needed
Former council member
seeks examination
BY JO5i[UA NICHOLS
Sun Newspapers
Having his own vision for the
Cedar Grove neighborhood does
not minimize former City Coun-
cilmember Paul Bakken's hopes
for the city to also spur redevelop-
ment efforts in the area.
"It's important to do a study no
matter who the developer is be-
cause it will help show the city
whether a project is even feasi-
ble," Bakken said during the
Eagan City Council's May 13 spe-
cial meeting.
Bakken, who served on the
council from 1999 to 2003, was pre-
senting the concept to the council
as master developer with his com-
pany, Bakken Properties of Min-
nesota LLC.
He would like to see some areas
of Cedar Grove as a "Beacon Hill"
style mixed -use development
using modular design. He showed
the council images of row -style
buildings with residential uses
upstairs and commercial build-
ings on the street level.
While several counc it members
expressed interest in exploring
Bakken's development concept.
they also said they wanted to con-
centrate on the study and open the
process to those interested.
"There are a lot of people that
have different visions of what
should go down there," Coun-
cilmember Mike Maguire said.
STUDY: To Page 26A
www.mnSun.conl
Study
From Page IA
"The study is important because it
would guide the process and let other de-
velopers in on the process if they want."
By estimating the costs of assembling
the land in the area and demolition,
Bakken said the city could generate a
hypothetical sale price of cleared land.
That price then could be shown to devel-
opers to gauge interest in redeveloping
the area.
Although the concept Bakken pre-
sented is something that the City Coun-
cil wanted to pursue several years ago
when beginning the area's redevelop-
ment, several consultants told the city
that developers wouldn't go for what was
then called the "Village Plaza" concept.
Councilmember Peggy Carlson said
the study is a good idea because it keeps
things moving in the redevelopment ef-
fort.
"If we don't keep this going with good
solid numbers. the momentum is going
to fall off," Carlson said. "The way I see
it, we have taken more than a year off ba-
sically on this project and the effort is
not moving along fast enough."
Council members agreed to place an
update on Cedar Grove redevelopment
efforts on every regular meeting agenda
to keep tabs on how the process is going.
Councilmember Meg Tilley, who was
involved with the task force that pre-
sented the original "Village Plaza" con-
cept for the area, said the work of the
task force would come in handy when
looking at future studies of the area.
"We need to be sure to use some of
what we have done in studies in the past
with the 'Village' plan to make sure we
are not redoing stuff we have already
done," Tilley said.
Bakken said the residential spaces
could be townhouses, condominiums or
apartments. Each residential unit would
have an open air parking space behind
the development and an underground
parking spot as well.
The modular aspect of the commer-
cial space would allow occupants to ei-
ther use the entire ground floor space, or
break it up into smaller units for several
different businesses.
Bakken said he has several other de-
veloper partnerships willing to go into
the project with him, including private
investors who are willing to contribute
between $20,000 and $2 million.
Bakken said there are several diffi-
culties in making the potential develop-
ment work. Chief among them is the cost
associated with assembling the parcels
of land and demolishing whatever struc-
tures are currently in place.
Because of the costs, he said that this
type of development would have to in-
clude tax increment financing (TIF)_ The
Cedar Grove redevelopment area is cur-
rently a TIF district.
"This is a very preliminary discus-
sion," Bakken said. "We just wanted to
present the idea to the council to let you
know what we are thinking and see if the
study is a possibility"
www.mnSun.com
READ AND
ea- et 6,
• SHARE YOUR GOOD NEWS WITH EVERYONE! CALL
Engagements
APPLEBY • SAMLIN
Mr and Mrs Gugws Appleby
Burnsville. MN are pleased to
rinounce the engagement of their
daughter Dana Mane to Jonathan
Mark Saran. son of Mr and Mrs
Kenneth Sanlm of Nerstrand, MN
Dana is a 1989 graduate c'
Burnsville High School and 3 gri.t.
ate of the Urnver*Ny of Wlscc
Eau Claire She aimed her Mas, •
degree of Education through ,. •
Mary's Unrversfy in 2001. Dana ,s
5th grade teacher in District tg6
Jonathan n a 1901 era .. r
Faribault High School and r ..,
BFA in Graphic Design horn the
University of Mirneeo s. Duluth. He
currently develops Internet tech-
nologies at Mighty Media in down-
town Minneapolis.
A July wedding rs planned. The
couple win reside in Burnsville.
Happy 50th Bi
OFGW an
ECVB seeks ambassadors
to promote Eagan tourism
Volunteers would provide `best possible'
customer service to out-of-towners
by Erin Johnson
THISWEEA NEWSPAPERS
According to the Eagan
Convention and Visitors
Bureau (ECVB), visitors and
tourists contribute more than
$89 million annually to
Eagan's economy.
To keep visitors coming
back, as well as to entice new
visitors, the ECVB is launch-
ing_ a volunteer ambassador
program.
Called "Eagan
Ambassadors Gain Awareness
Now:' the new campaign aims
to raise public awareness
about Eagan and its many
attractions. The ECVB is
seeking volunteer ambassa-
dors for a variety of tourism -
related activities to help
spread the word about Eagan.
Eagan hosts hundreds of
thousands of tourists each
year. said Ann Carlon. ECVB
executive director.
"Visitors shop in our busi-
nesses. eat in.the restaurants,
play in the parks and sleep in
•our I hotels." she said.
"Residents and those who
work in the community may
not realize that they are inter-
acting with 950.000 visitors to
Eagan each year."
ECVB is offering a free,
half -day training class and
tour for those .interested in
becoming an ambassador.
Ambassadors are needed for a
rangelof activities. both in and
outside of the city.
"We have a multiple choice
of opportunities for volun-
teers:" said Sue Hagerty,
ECVB public relations direc-
tor. "We do such a variety of
promotions for the city that
we can use people from being
greeters to entertainers to
working the parade routes
passing out literature and
candy:"
For instance. the ECVB
needs volunteers to help pro-
mote Eagan as it drives its
candy -wrapped van in several
parades throughout the sum-
mer.
The van is decorated in
what looks like large M&M's
candies, but in fact they are,
turned sideways to- read
"E&E's:" Each candy shape
uses a different "E" word to
describe Eagan, such as
"Energetic" and "Exciting."
• The van will travel
throughout Minnesota and to
other states to be displayed at
parades and events.
"Volunteers can travel with
us to other cities to walk
parades or attend festivals to
promote summer vacations to
Eagan." Hagerty said.
Volunteers with musical or
other entertainment abilities
arc always appreciated,
•Hagerty said, to greet visitors
with a song as they arrive at
their hotel.
Ambassadors are also
needed to act as greeters at
banquets and other events and
to hand out welcome hags at
military reunions.
"With a staff of four. we
See Ambassador, 9A
it
•
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just off I-3SW S. on Cliff Road
Dealer In +V' ' r Midwest for 2001!
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Ambassador/from lA
604,
don't always have the ability
to do that," she said. "We just
need someone to be there with
a smile so these visitors will
want to come back to our
community."
With so many tourists
coming here already, Hagerty
said. even going to a fast-food
restaurant will probably cause
residents to bump into a
tourist without knowing it.
"We want to build the cus-
tomer service skills of the
community so they can
answer the questions of
tourists," she said. "Everyone
is an ambassador. whether
they go through training or
are standing in the check-out
line at the grocery store. It's a
way of formalizing something
that's probably already going
on and people don't realize
it"
IMO
With facilities such as
Cascade Bay and a close
proximity to the Mall of
America, Eagan is a very pro-
motable city. But even resi-
dents aren't %Iways aware of
all that Eagan provides,
Hagerty said.
"It's amazing that people
don't know how many ameni-
ties this city offers," she said.
"We have parks and restau-
rants that even residents
haven't discovered yet."
The ambassador training
class is scheduled for Friday,
May 30 from 8 a.m. to 1:30
p.m. The ECVB will accept
the first 15 people who regis-
ter for the class. Registration
forms are available at City
Hall. Wescott Library and the
ECVB office in the
Community Center.
For more information, call
(651) 675-5546 or visit
www.visiteagan eagammn.co
m.
Erin Johnson is at
eagan. this wgek @ cerrs -
inc.co n.
e THISWEEK May 17, 2003 3A
Eagan to hold open house
of community services
The city of Eagan will hold
its Community Services Open
House on Wednesday, May 21
at the Eagan Civic Arena and
the Eagan Police Department.
This event, which will be
held from 4 to 7 p.m., is free
and open to the public.
The open house will allow
individuals, families, neigh-
borhood and community
groups to learn more about the
services the city provides.
Visitors will also be able to
test out city equipment and
get answers to their burning
questions.
The ice has been removed
from the Civic Arena and will
be filled with city trucks,
street sweepers. snow plows,
squad cars, ambulance and
fire/rescue equipment. dis-
plays, activities and entertain-
ment.
City staff will be on hand
to answer questions and com-
plimentary refreshments will
be served.
Puppet shows, animal
demonstrations, and face
painting will be available for
children.
The Eagan Civic Arena is
located just south of the Pilot
Knob Road and Wescott Road
intersection, next to Cascade
Bay.
For more information, call
the city of Eagan at (651) 675-
5000.
S
9An
wwwthiriweek-online.com
Man who forged Awada's
signature is sentenced
Former mayors signature was forged on
campaign stationery, falsely announcing
a senate run
by Erb aJohnson
T11LSWFIX 5F.WSPApFRC
A bizarre chapter in Eagan's
history has come to an end with
the sentencing of Michael Janus
Vincent. formerly of Eagan. for
felony possession of counterfeit
checks and criminal defamation,
a gross misdemeanor.
Michael lames Vincent. 42,
pleaded guilty Tuesday and was
sentenced to five years probation
and restitution in the amount of
$16,666.70 for the felony charge.
He was sentenced to two years
probation for the gross misde-
meanor charge.
In 1999. Vincent, a disgrun-
tled former parks commissioner
and failed city council candidate,
was charged with distributing a
letter bearing the forged signature
of then Eagan Mayor Pat Awada.
The letter was printed on cam-
paign committee stationery and
falsely announced that Awada
was contemplating a run for the
2000 senate.
In a truly unconventional
twist, then Eagan Council
Member Paul Bakken snatched
bags of garbage from outside of
Vincent's home and searched
them for evidence that he was the
distribut, ,r of the letters.
He found numerous shredded
documents in the hags. some of
which matched the heading on
the forged letter, plus empty
envelope boxes, latex gloves and
glue sticks.
Bakken handed the bags of
garbage over to the Dakota
County Sheriff's Office.
Deputies then seized Vincent's
personal computer and found an
early draft of the forged letter.
Vincent was charged with
criminal defamation in
December 1999. He was origi-
nally allowed, at his request, to
participate in a criminal diversion
program. but was removed from
the program when he was
charged with possession of coun-
terfeit checks in 2001.
According to the Dakota
County Attomey's Office. the
counterfeit check charge
stemmed from three checks total-
ing S25.000 that were created
and deposited into Vincent's
money market account.
Two of the checks. which
totaled $16,666.70, were credited
to Vincent's account. but the for-
gery was discovered before the
third check cleared the hank.
An investigation revealed that
Vincent had created three checks
on a businessman's checking
account without the business-
man's authority,
The businessman told Eagan
police that he had previously paid
Vincent by check and believed
that is how Vincent obtained his
account number, which was used
to create the counterfeit checks.
Erin Johnson is at
eagan.thisw eekktecm-inc.com.
2A May 17. 2003 THISWEEK
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Eagan
Town Centre
moves
Council also approves contract change
for Cedar Grove work, letter to MAC
BY JOSHUA NICHOIS
Sun Newspapers
Motorists traveling t irougli > a tt's
Town Centre area may often see red, both
in the brake lights stacking up in front of
them and figuratively, but that could
soon change.
During its May 20 meeting, the Eagan
City Council unanimously approved a
bid of $919,474 by Hardives Inc. for street
improvements in the Town Centre area.
The contract includes an overlay of
the blacktop as well as several changes to
improve access and is part of a larger
traffic improvement effort in the area.
Five bids were opened May 15. Besides
a ha RP bid for the project, the city also re-
quired two alternatives covering the
blacktop work to allow a cost/benefit
analysis of two different blacktop speci-
fications and mixtures.
Hardives presented the lowest bid for
the project with the first alternative
beating out Valley Paving Inc., by about
$4,000.
Although Valley Paving was slightly
less expensive than Hardives on the sec-
ond alternative, both bids were about
$40,000 more than their bids on the first
alternative. City engineers said the sec-
ond alternative did not improve the
blacktop quality substantially enough to
justify that additional cost.
The next lowest bidder after Hardives
and Valley Paving was nearly $100,000
wore than the two lowest bids for both al-
ternatives. The winning bid also came in
lower than engineer's estimates, which
had placed the cost for alternative one at
$1.2 million.
The work is part of a larger traffic re-
configuration in the Town Centre area
approved by the City Council in Decem-
ber 2002.
The total project, which is estimated
at $2.3 million, is designed to improve
traffic flow through the congested shop-
ping area. Plans call for moving some
driveway entrances along Town Centre
ahead with
traffic work
Drive, turning Town Centre Drive and
Duckwood Drive into a three -lane design
with one lane for traffic in each direction
and a center lane for left-hand turns, and
several other changes.
A traffic signal will be installed at the
intersection of Town Centre and Duck -
wood and sidewalks will connect the
cluster of restaurants on the north and
west sides of the roads.
The work in the Hardives contract is
only part of that effort, including bitu-
minous overlay and access management
improvements in the area as well as Cre-
stridge lane.
The start date for the work is June 16.
In other business at the meeting,
the council:
• Approved a change order to the con-
tract for street and utility improvements
in the Cedar Grove redevelopment area.
The change, in the amount of $79,204, was
required to cover the unforeseen costs of
removing and disposing of fly ash materi-
al discovered in the construction of storm
water ponds adjacent to Highway 13.
COUNCIL: To Page 21A
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IC SAFETY
the Dakota County District Court May 19 to
x. raping an Eagan woman in November
'ere Andrew Stephen Williams had faced
unit six counts of first -degree criminal sexu-
the al conduct in relation to the Nov 7 inci•
uad dent. As part of a plea agreement. prose -
vice cutors agreed to drop related charges
and to seek no more than a 30-year sen-
oup tence when Williams is sentenced Aug. 4.
ota Williams was arrested during the
tual early morning hours Nov 10 after a foot
lso chase in north Minneapolis. His arrest
concluded a search that lasted more than
urn three days and involved several commu-
nities.
According to the Dakota County com-
plaint:
Williams. who is a convicted sexual of
fender. called a co-worker at her Eagan
apartment building and asked to be let in
gis- because he was in trouble and needed to
in
use her phone.
After she let him in, Williams pulled
out a knife, threatened to kill her and
forced her into her bedroom where he
sexually assaulted her over a three-hour
period.
While pleading with Williams to let
her go, the victim escaped from the
apartment and contacted the apartment
complex's manager. While waiting for
police to arrive, she saw Williams run-
ning from the building and driving away
Approximately 40 minutes following
the Eagan assault. another woman was
threatened at knifepoint in a St. Paul
Highland Park parking ramp.
During the attempted abduction, a
passerby startled Williams and he fled
the scene.
PUBLIC SAFETY: To Page 27
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Apple Valley/Rosernount, Eagan Sun"Current/Thursday, May 29, 2003 21A
Council
From Page 3A
Initial soil borings in the area of the
ponds did not indicate the presence of
the fly ash, but when excavating the area,
it took more effort by the contractor and
the use of a bulldozer and other heavy
machinery.
The material was considered unsuit-
able for grading material and had to be
hauled off the site.
The cost of the work added to the con-
tract was reviewed by the city's engi-
neering division and found to be consis-
tent with similar work.
The additional funding will be the re-
sponsibility of the city's respective
Major Street and Storm Sewer Trunk
funds and assessments to the adjacent
benefiting properties,
Approved the recommendation of
the Eagan Airport Relations Commis-
sion to suggest the Metropolitan Air-
ports Commission (MAC) use data from
forecasts of terminal usage to update its
noise mitigation program rather than
using noise collection data.
The council approved drafting a letter
to the MAC supporting the methodology.
MAC's Planning and Environment
Committee was presented with potential
methodologies to be used in preparing
its operations forecast at a meeting ear-
lier this month.
During a May 13 meeting, the ARC re-
viewed those methodologies as well and
supported the Federal Aviation Admin-
istration's Terminal Area Forecasts as
the guiding factor when projecting oper-
ations at the airport.
In making the recommendation, the
ARC noted that the FAA data incorporat-
ed the number of all aircraft in the air-
port's airspace whereas the noise data,
which is collected by various noise mon-
itoring stations throughout the commu-
nities surrounding the airport, only
takes into account arrivals and depar-
tures from the airport.
The ARC also noted that the FAA data
projects higher operations figures than
the noise data, which could impact the
future noise contours of the noise miti-
gation program, leading to the potential
inclusion of more homes under flight
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22A Apple Valley/Rosemount, Eagan Sun•Cunant/Thursday. May 29. 2003
www.mnSun.com
County parks offers
variety of programs
Dakota County Parks will have a vari-
ety of programs throughout the summer.
For registration call 651-438-4RES or for
more information go to www.co.dako-
ta.mn.us/parks.
A first time event is an REI Paddle
Fest at Schulze Lake from 11 a.m. to 3
p.m. Saturday, June 7. Schulze Lake is in
Lebanon Hills Regional Park in Eagan.
Those interested are invited to join man-
ufacture representatives and REI staff
on the water to sample a selection of ca-
noes and kayaks from Old Town, Ocean
Kayak, Mad River, Wilderness Systems,
Dagger and Perception. Speak with the
experts to determine which boat meets
your needs. Local paddling clubs, lesson
PARKS
providers and trip leaders also will ac-
quaint you with paddling opportunities
both locally and throughout the Upper
Midwest. PFDS and paddles provided.
Dress to get wet. Call REI at 952-884-4315,
Ext. 203 with questions. No registration
required. Program is free.
The largest event of the summer is
"National River Stories - Songs of the
Mississippi" featuring the singing
ranger, Charlie Maguire at 7 p.m. Friday,
June 20, at Schaar's Bluff, Spring Lake
Park Reserve, Hastings. Maguire will re-
gale tales through original music and
song, of the "National River" that runs
through the Twin Cities on its way to the
Gulf of Mexico. Bring a lawn chair or
blanket. No registration required. Pro-
gram is free.
• Knee-high naturalists are especially
for children ages 3-6. Each program in -
MARTIAL ARTS i
SUMMER BOOT CAMP
Fun fur the lids ages 5 and up.
No experience necessary.
Daily dasses starting
Monday June 9th, 2003
• 9am-4pm (Mon-Thurs)
• 9am-12noon (Sat)
Call 651-322-4222
• Classes in self defense, philosophy, joy of disc p' ne
cludes time spent indoors learning about
each month's topic and time outside ex-
ploring nature. Programs are 9:30 to 11
a.m. one Saturday a month at Spring
Lake Youth Camp, Spring Lake Park Re-
serve in Rosemount. -
• All Scouts are offered a program
where they play games, explore nature,
and make new friends while working to-
ward merit badges with a park natural-
ist. Come with your entire troop or indi-
vidually with a parent. Parent or Scout
leaders must accompany Scouts. Regis-
tration required. Space is limited. Fee:
$5/Scout. General public is also invited
to participate. Program content is struc-
tured toward acquiring merit badges.
• Join the new Silver Birch nature se-
ries designed for active older adults. As
part of the Silver Birch Club, you'll take
a guided walk with a naturalist each
For any of your advertising needs
month to observe many seasonal
changes within Thompson County Park.
After the hike, have lunch with club
members in the Dakota Lodge. Bring a
bag lunch. Registration required. Space
is limited. Club meets from 10 a.m. to
12:30 p.m. one Thursday a month. Fee:
Each session $3.
Volunteers sought for
buckthorn removal
The Friends of Lebanon Hills is seek-
ing volunteers to help with removing
buckthorn, a noxious weed tree, from
Lebanon Hills Regional Park.
The Buckthorn Control Day is sched-
uled for Saturday, June 21. For more in-
formation contact Mike Fedde at 651-452-
2966 or e-mail at fedd(aattbi.com.
4
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co THISWEEK ' May 31, 2003 7A
Wardlow takes time each day to reflect
by T.W. Budtg
ECM CNTIOL REPORTER
Rep. Lynn Wardlow likes to
walk from his office across the
street to the Capitol — he likes to
look at the great white building.
- It grounds hint
You're here. Wardlow will
reflect, and may soon be gone. -
"'So enjoy yourself while
r_you're here. And make sure. you
do what's tight,'" Wardlow, first -
tern] Republican from Eagan,
'tells himself.
Lieutenant colonel in the U.S.
Marine Corp Reserves — educa-
tor for more than 30 years —
Wardlow emerged from zestful
local' politics as the Republican
candidate for Gov. Tim
Pawlenty's old seat in District
38B. •
In a four-way race, Wardlow,
59. decisively beat DFLer Wayne
Gilbert. The two men emerged
from the race as friends.
"If he were a Republican, I'd
vote for him;" said Wardlow.
Urged by his sons to seek
office, Wardlow's interest was
whetted by his connection to the
campaign of a fellow Marine,
Rep. John Kline, R-Lakeville.
Political events followed that
eventually resulted in Wardlow
walking to work while looking up
at the Capitol dome.
Wardlow was disappointed
with needing to have a special
session. "1 was kind of upset; we
had to play a lot of games to get
legislation through," said
Window.
But he looks back on the reg-
ular.session with some satisfac-
tion. •
He considers the Profile of
Rep. Lynn Wardlow
Learning repeal significant — he
campaigned on abolishing the
star-crossed show -what -you -
know education initiative.
"I want to be a Republican
who helps teachers almost like a
Democrat;" he said.
Helping teachers and busi-
ness, particularly entrepreneurs,
are key objectives.
"I want to help business but
my heart goes to the entrepre-
neur;" Wardlow said.
In general, Wardlow likes to
see smaller government and
lower taxes. But he doesn't rule
out tax increases permanently, he
explained. He didn't sign a no'
new tax pledge.
He notes passage of women's-
right-to-know and the Minnesota
Personal Protection Act — so-
called concealed -carry — as
other significant accomplish-
ments.
He took some heat. he said on
concealed -carry early in the ses-
sion when he voted against the
legislation after a series questions
arose in committee.
"I rot sonic shone calls after
that," said Wardlow, a bill co-
author.
"I'm pro Second Amendment
but I wanted to make sure it (the_
law) was very strict. I didn't think
that qualification was kept in
committee,' he said.
'Wardlow's concerns were
addressed and ultimately he
voted for the' legislation which
became law.
That Wardlow heard from
constituents on concealed -carry
— he estimates support in his dis-
trict ranging from 60 to 70 per-
cent — isn't starling.
One thing that _ surprised
Wanllow about becoming a law-
maker was the volume of mail
and emails- he receives. He
remembers coming into his
Capitol office early one morning
to find 21 emails in his mailbox.
Following committee, he
came back to his office and found
another 21 emails. Wardlow's
entail trash contains about 1,500
emails, he said.
All inquiries from Eagan he
answers, said Wardlow.
If the question is complex, he
may first • need to talk to
researchers. But he'll get hack, he
said. '
He has a simple philosophy on
explaining his positions to con-
stituents.
"No. 1 — you've got to be
honest," he said.
' Expecting the Legislature to
be partisan, Wardlow always
wants to be able to extend a hand
across the aisle to Democrats. He
speaks well of his political adver-
saries, of his fellow lawmakers
and House staff.
'There's some really sharp
on his service at capitol
cookies .round here. I'm almost
humbled to be sitting in the same
room with them;' said Wardlow.
_ --"There's some good guys on
the DFL-side. 1 don't always
agree with theta but they're sharp
people;' he said.
Wardlow, a Vietnams veteran
with 25 years in the resents,
smiled when asked whether there
wasn't a difference between giv-
ing an order as a Marine officer
and the argumentative world of
politics. .
"1 was.a teacher for 30 years;'
he replied.
The fact he faces re-election
next year comes to mind once in
awhile — opponents are watch-
ing his votes, he noted — but
Wardlow tries to mentally push
the election aside.
For now he's at the Capitol.
Enjoy the experience and do a
'good job, he reflects.
T.IV. Budig is at tim.budig@ecm-
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May 31, 2003 THISWEEK ea
Education
Manager returns to district where she began
driving school bus more than 30 years ago
hyJohn Gessner
THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS
Martha Wittman knows that
effective leadership usually
means stepping aside to let other
accept the glory.
So Wittman, who drove a
school bus for years before man-
aging other drivers, was thrilled
when two recently won awards
for which she'd nominated them.
Eleanor Juberian, a special
education transportation assistant
in the Burnsville -Eagan -Savage
School District. was named the
state's top assistant by the
Minnesota Special Education
Transportation Committee.
And Kevin Phelan, a driver in
the Wayzata School District, was
named to AAA Minneapolis'
Drivers Hall of Fame.
"So, I'm on a roll," Witnna n
said. "Two for two." •
Wittman, who first drove a
school bus in 1969, has returned
to the district when she started
her career. Three weeks ago she
began. work as manager of the
Burnsville location of First
Student Inc.. which provides bus
service in the Burnsville -Eagan -
Savage district.
Her return to the bus terminal
on West Highway 13 follows
two -and -a -half years as manager
of First Student's operation in the
Wayzata School District.
Wittman was welcomed back
by old cronies but encountered
many new faces to which she's
trying to attach names.
"I haven't had a lot of time to
get to them all" said Wittman,
62, "but I'm working on it. I've
been here three weeks and so far
I haven't found anybody 1 really
don't like,'
She hopes the feeling.is mutu-
al.
"You need to keep your driv-
ers' morale high." said Wittman,
who manages a fleet of 110 buses
serving a district of 11.300 stu-
dents. "I think that affects how
they drive and deal with their stu-
dents. If there's bad morale,
they're not going to perform for
you."
Wittman, a mother of five
children, four of whom graduated
from Burnsville High School,
began driving bus in 1969 while
living near Cedar 'School in
Eagan.
"I think there were only about
15 drivers then." Wittman said.
"Now we have probably 110
mutes. We used to sit on a bus
seat out in the shop. That was our
Paw, by Jan Gene,
Martha Wittman is the new manager at the Burnsville school
bus terminal, where her driving career began in 1969.
drivers' room. We got paid $5.50
in the morning and the same in
the afternoon. So you made $ 1 1 a
day. which was pretty good
money back then."
She had an affinity for driving
special -education buses.
"I used to go to the Special
Olympics" in which her riders
competed, said Wittman. now a
Prior lake resident who once
Budget. -Insulation -Ins: - worked as a public -health nurse.
She worked as a driver and
dispatcher before becoming
assistant manager of the
Burnsville terminal in the 1980s.
Wittman worked under Ralph
Garbe. the longtime manager
who retired a few years ago.
"The parents out there were
very. very nice.' Wittman said.
"In all the years I've been in this, -
you run into somebody who's
going to give you a bad time once
complaint.
"You need to have good cus-
tomer service in this business.
And never assume." learned that
from Ralph Garbe."
In 2000 First Student offered
her the top job in Plymouth. This
year. when fornter Burnsville
manager Dan Marchese was relo-
cated to Chaska, First Student
asked Wittman to return as man-
ager.
"1 had a lot of mixed emotions
about coming back," admitted
Wittman, whose husband,
Richard. is a custodian in the
Prior Lake -Savage School
District. "My heart is really in
Wayzata. I fell in love with those
people — just a great bunch of
drivers."
But when the 1umsville job
opened up. many drivers said
they wanted Wittman hack,
according to First Student man-
agement.
"Now I'm here," Wittman
said. "Every day's a little better."
And she has new goals to pursue.
"Getting children to and from
school safely is the No. I priori-
ty," Wittman said. "Next would
be preventing accidents. We real-
ly lowered our accident rate in
Wayzata last year. I'm hoping to
get the same results here."
Ride 'em, cowboy
a3
Pl.r.. l,. Nit f1rt.M.?
Aaron Dangor, a third -grader at (.lacier Hills Elementary School,
participates in the school's "Bike Rodeo" Wednesday morning.
Two more charged in ci (('s
__
Eagan bank fraud case "
Suspects are TCF Bank employees
by Eris, Jobasow
THIS%'L•EK NI W SPAN- RS
Two bank employees have
been charged in connection
with the illegal withdrawal of
an elderly woman's life sav-
ings from TCF Bank in Eagan
last May_
Adam Samuel Koch, of
Eagan, and Ngowah
Mbangowab, of Little Canada.
were charged with aiding and
abetting, a felony. for their
alleged role in the theft.
According to the com-
plaint. Koch, 21, and
Mbangowab, 34, were accom-
plices of Kevin Randall
Olson, who was sentenced in
April for using a fake 1.D. to
withdraw more than $17.000
from the woman's account on
May 5, 2002.
The complaint states that
Olson was a known friend of
Koch. a bank employee who
was working the day of the
theft. It also states that
Mbangowab. a branch manag-
er, chose which account to
steal from and provided Olson
with the account number, per-
sonal identification number
(PIN). account holder names
and Social Security number.
On May 5, Olson presented
a bank teller with a South
Dakota driver's license with
the name of Lorna Bosworth,
the elderly woman's daughter,
whose name was also on the
account. The driver's license
contained Olson's picture and
date of birth. He then with-
drew all of the money in cash
and closed the account.
The teller said he followed
procedure by asking for iden-
tification and the account's
PIN, both of which Olson pro -
Sec Fraud, 6A
1
larsual/froas 1A b( 641,
The day after the theft, the
complaint said, Olson met
with Koch and Mbangowab
and split the money.
Mbangowab received
$10,000, Olson received
$4,000 and Koch received the
remainder, according to the
complaint.
Olson was sentenced to 30
days in jail and 60 days of
electronic home monitoring.
He was also ordered to pay
about SI7,000 in restitution,
the amount he stole from the
92-year-old woman's bank
account.
TCF Bank had reimbursed
the elderly woman for the full
amount after the theft was dis-
covered. She has since died.
Koch will appear in court
June 2. A court date has not
been set for Mbangowab.
Erin Johnson is at
eagan.thisweek@ectn-
inc.com.
3
www.thisweek-online.com
City Council urges legislators
to amend conceal carry bill
Amendment would allow ban of guns on city property
by Erin Joblesow
THISWEF.K NEWSPAPERS
The Eagan City Council
unanimously adopted a resolu-
tion to request an amendment
to the state's new concealed
carry bill that would allow
cities the same gun restriction
rights as private property own-
ers.
The concealed carry law
went into effect Wednesday.
The law allows private
property owners to post signs
prohibiting guns on their
property, but no such provi-
sions are made for cities.
The issue is one of local
control, said Eagan Police
Chief Kent Therkelsen.
"Our concern is the ability
of local government to control
the possession and carrying of
firearms into city -owned
buildings and grounds," he
said.
Mayor Pat Geagan and
council members are urging
legislators to amend the bill to
allow cities to restrict permit
holders on municipal property.
Eagan and Shorewood are
among the first two Minnesota
cities to ask for an amendment
to the law.
According to Eagan's reso-
lution. the council "finds no
rational justification" for hav-
ing different access rights for
private property and city prop-
erty.
The resolution also states
that the "greater presence of
weapons on city property may
increase insurance premiums
and the cost of government
services."
But the bigger issue is pro-
tecting people, said
Therkelsen.
"We recognize the legisla-
ture has the prerogative over
concealed weapons and per-
mits. Our concern as a city is
the safest possible environ-
ment for our employees and
all citizens while on city prop-
erty," he said.
Things can get heated dur-
See Guns, 6A
2A May 31, 2003 THISWEEK
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Guru/from 1A
ing city council meetings. he
said, and adding guns to the
equation could elevate the risk
of violence.
"Our concern is that we
believe some of the same
dynamics that call for pro-
hibiting guns on the capitol
grounds could exist in city
hall," he said. "There are
issues that are controversial
and contentious."
Meanwhile. some Eagan
businesses and organizations
are scrambling to decide how
to handle the new law.
Craig Rebers, general man-
ager of Al Baker's, said that
management has spoken about
the issue briefly in passing but
hasn't yet made a decision
about whether or not to post
signs.
"I'm amazed we're even in
this position." he said. "It
doesn't even seem like it's
real. 1 don't understand the
need for it."
Signs alone won't do the
trick, he said.
"You can post all the signs
you want. but you need securi-
ty to back it up." he said. "We
have signs posted telling peo-
ple to not get too drunk. but it
doesn't mean they won't."
Rebers said he wonders
why legislators allow people
to bring guns into businesses,
but won't allow them on their
own turf.
"I think it's interesting that
you can bring guns into
restaurants and even onto
school property, but you can't
bring them into the Capitol.
Why not?" he said.
Local churches are also try-
ing to get policies in place
regarding permit holders.
Pastor Tim Rehwaldt of
Praise Lutheran Church said
his congregation has yet to
decide what to do about the
law.
The church recently
received a letter from its par-
ent organization in Missouri
with instructions on how to
word signs if they choose to
post them, he said.
"But we have not made any
decision." he said. "We have
not yet discussed it."
Erin Johnson is at
eagonthisweek@ecnt-inc.com
Improvmg
• tun'
e managementw
j 1�,s f1,''
S/te -'C1°s
Sen. Alike McGinn's proposal for biannual sessions reflects feeling fur arc! plodding session
by T.W. &dig
ECM CAPfUU1. REPORTER
The Eagan Republican has
I ound the Senate a revelation.
Like other law enforcement
,)fficers coming into the
Legislature. Sen. Mike
McGinn. 55, former St. Paul
police commander, expresses
frustration over the way things
are done under the Capitol
rl dome.
For instance, the first -term
lawmaker believes budget bills
should he handled first — not
last.
There's too much show -and -
tell early in the session, he said.
Time can be better used.
Legislation can be polished
during the interim and later
introduced during the session
for fine-tuning. McGinn
explained.
The Legislature needs to
meet just every other year. he
Sen. Mike McGinn
said. McGinn is legislatively
pushing to establish biannual
sessions.
This failed to advance. but
McGinn remains hopeful.
"When we have a lot of time
available, I think we're (law-
makers) tempted to microman-
age." said McGinn. "There
were only about two dozen bills
that were of exceptional sub-
stance this session"
McGinn expressed no sur-
prise at the coming of special
session.
"We kind of expected it to
run long." he said.
While never before holding
public office, McGinn was
familiar with the legislative
process. The human element of
making law was something
lesser known.
"If I was surprised by any-
thing. it was how well political
adversaries can get along on a
personal basis." he said.
Connections matter.
A 30-year veteran of the St.
Paul Police Department.
McGinn knows St. Paul law-
makers and believes this has
helped him advance his legisla-
tion_
Recently, an amendment he
offered dealing with school
superintendent's contracts was
adopted on the Senate floor by a
vote 66 to 0.
"For a freshman. I did very
well," McGinn said of getting
legislation through.
If family traditions would
have held. McGinn might be
serving on the other side of the
Senate aisle.
He recalls his first taste of
politics coining at age 10 when
he distributed campaign litera-
ture on Cathedral Hill for "an
old Democrat" engaged in a St.
Paul City Council race.
His family had unionist tra-
ditions. His father was a union
activist, his uncle a labor attor-
ney.
There were three official
See McGinn, 6A
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McGinn/from 1lA
sources of news in the
McGinn household: the daily
newspaper. the Catholic
Bulletin, and the Union
Advocate, McGinn joked.
But talking about the budg-
et, McGinn voices Republican
ideals,
"I think as painful as this is
(budget cutting), 1 think it's
one of those things that had to
happen," he said.
"1 think our period of pros-
perity allowed us to become
more generous than prudent in
the long haul."
McGinn takes an aggres-
sive stance on the question of
local government aid (LGA)
— a major budget issue this
session.
While expressing sympathy
for the disruptions proposed
LGA cuts might cause some
cities. McGinn terms the cur-
rent LGA formula antiquated.
LGA is not allocated pro-
portionality, he said.
"The best thing we can do
is hope to make it quick and
permanent.' he said of adjust-
ing the LGA formula.
Get the thing over with, he
urged.
One vote McGinn said he'd
like to take back he made on
recent so-called conceal carry
legislation.
McGinn procedurally voted
against conceal carry but on
the final vote, voted in favor.
"For whatever reason it
didn't click — 1 voted the
wrong way," he said of the
final passage vote.
"I'd take it back in a heart-
beat." he said of the vote.
He said conceal carry was a
tough issue for him.
He doesn't believe the dire
protections about thousands of
new guns on the street.
But he does think the new
law short-term will be confus-
ing.
Weeks ago, McGinn and
his wife pinned a police badge
on their son, a new officer.
Police work runs in the family.
His wife. Lisa, also a St. Paul
Police Department command-
er, will soon be retiring.
One issue McGinn became
identified with last session
was School District 196 con-
troversy over former district
superintendent John Haro's
compensation package.
McGinn said he tried to
keep personalities out of the
debate.
"No one did anything
wrong." he said,
Still, McGinn's amendment
detailed steps school districts
must take in handling superin-
tendent compensation pack-
ages — steps to keep the pull
lic informed.
"That was my first taste of
mass outrage." he said of the
salary controversy.
McGinn's answering
machine filled with calls and
he probably got about 100 e-
rnails on the controversy: -
T. W. 8udig i.s as
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City Council
wants law
changed
Hoping for alterations in
conceal and carry law
BY JosHUA NICHOLS
Sun Newspapers
The week before Minnesota's
new conceal and carry weapons
law went into effect, the Eagan
City Council was holding out hope
that there would be last minute
changes to the law.
"It makes no sense tahave dif-
ferent requirements for private
groups versus cities," said Eagan
Mayor Pat Geagan, a former
Eagan Police chief.
"We just think the law should
be consistent."
The rest of the Eagan City
Council agreed, approving a reso-
lution urging Eagan's legislative
delegation to alter the law.
Law
From Page IA
That change did not come to be as the
law went into effect May 28 and the Leg-
islature adjourned its 10-day special ses-
sion the following day.
"It's disappointing it never was ad-
dressed. but the resolution stands and
hopefully the changes can be made down
the road." Geagan said.
The city wanted the Minnesota Per-
sonal Protection Act amended to allow
cities to post "no weapons allowed" signs
in city hall or on city -owned property
The newly passed Law allows private
property owners to post signs and regu-
late concealed weapons on their proper-
ty but cities are not allowed to restrict
permit holders on municipal property,
thereby precluding any local control.
The Eagan Council said it agrees in
concept with a failed amendment to the
House file that would have allowed cities
to prohibit concealed weapons at public
facilities such as city halls. parks, and
recreation centers.
According to Eagan Communications
Coordinator Tom Garrison, Eagan and
Shorewood are among the first two Min-
nesota cities to ask for changes in the
law.
Several church groups, however, have
challenged the new law in court for dif-
ferent reasons. The effort was started
when Edina Community Lutheran
Church filed a lawsuit May 20 complain-
ing about certain aspects of the law.
The plaintiffs say the new gun -permit
bill violates their right to practice reli-
gion by imposing specific language used
on signs banning guns, and by prevent-
ing the churches from banning guns in
The newly passed law
allows private property
owners to post signs and
regulate concealed weapons
on their properly, but cities
are not allowed to restrict
permit holders on
municipal property, thereby
precluding any local
control.
parking lots or on church property when
it is leased to another group.
According to the resolution adopted
by the Eagan City Council,' the council
"finds no rational justification" for hav-
ing different access rights for private
property vs. city property."
Further. the resolution states the
"greater presence of weapons on city
property may increase insurance premi-
ums and the cost of government ser-
vices."
However, Eagan Police Chief Kent
Therkelsen said the biggest reason the
council made the request for an immedi-
ate change was to protect the people.
"We recognize the Legislature has the
prerogative over concealed weapons and
permits," Therkelsen said. "Our con-
cern as a city is the safest possible envi-
ronment for our employees and all citi-
zens while on city property"
Su. rx
Crr��
rsc�
TL-1. 0-7 e S--)oloo3
Art
From Page IA
And it does it all from a small ranch -
style house that became the Eagan Art
House in 1997 with the help of Gustafson
and other dedicated volunteers.
Seeing a need for year-round arts ac-
tivities in Eagan. the volunteers formed
a non-profit organization and worked
with the Eagan Parks and Recreation De-
partment to obtain the house.
The house has seen some changes
since then, with the help of donations
gathered from the public. The upstairs of
the house has been transformed into a
big classroom area. The upstairs also in-
cludes a small office area and a kitchen.
More changes came in 1999, when the
two -car ,attached garage was converted
into a potting studio with the help of a
grant from the Minnesota Regional Arts
Council (MRAC). The Art House also
built a -stage on the back of the house
with help of Home Depot in 2000 and
began a Friday Night Music series pre-
senting live music throughout the year.
But maybe the most important
change at the Art House over the years is
the growth it has experienced in the
number of people calling it at least their
temporary home. When the building
opened in 1997, it had three teachers and
a total of 40 students.
Class registration tripled the follow-
ing year and the organization now has
about 1,300 students.
Despite the large number of students.
the Art House has retained a smaller
feeling, said Jill Otto, Art House director.
"It's becoming a community within it-
self," Otto said. "People take classes and
they become part of a consistent group
where everybody knows each other. I've
heard some people say it reminds them
of a small-town feeling."
Gustafson, who is now facilities chair
on the volunteer board that oversees the
Art House's operations, said the classes
at the Art House are formed partially by
what the public asks for and also by what
expertise the teachers have to offer. The
committee that conies up with new ideas
for classes also looks at what other com-
munities are offering. Some classes are
formed to follow up on more introducto-
ry classes in certain subjects, she said.
Through a grant from MRAC. the or-'
ganization also offers off -site programs
to underprivileged youth. The effort is
part of the organization's goal- to serve
more than just the Eagan community,
but stretch out to Burnsville, Apple Val-
ley and farther across the metro area.
The growth has its downside too. With
so much demand for its programs. the
Art House could use the services of a
full-time director, even though Otto
works only part time. With.some classes
featuring awaiting list, bigger spaces
and more teachers would allow for more
people to take part, but at a higher cost.
Although there have been requests for
photography and fiber arts classes, the
current building does not offer the room
to do those activities. Although the
house also has a basement, classes can-
not take place down there because -it's
not handicapped accessible.
"The growth we have in this area is
just wonderful. wonderful, wonderful,"
said Kari Wray, a recent addition to the
Art House's board. "But it can be diffi-
cult as a non-profit to meet the chal-
lenges that presents."
For now the Art House plugs the gaps
by using its large volunteer base, but
Wray said there is always a need for more
volunteers.
Wray. who lived in south Minneapolis
before moving to Eagan, said there were
a lot more arts opportunities offered in
her former neighborhood. When she
came to Eagan. she said those opportu-
nities were lacking until she found out
about the Art House. .
"The more 1 learned about it. the more
I got excited," she said. "There is such a
hominess and welcome-ness here. I'm
not an artist myself. but I like to learn
and it really felt like it had a great feel to
it. I just had to be a part of it."
For board president Joe Bifulk, who
had seen a similar group in West St. Paul,
the Dakota County Center for the Arts,
fail and eventually merge with . the
Eagan Art House in 1998, the chance to
get involved with the Art House was a
chance to sec a great idea succeed.
"I had seen the West St. Paul group
fail and then I saw a group that had a
great vision and I wanted to be a part of
helping make that idea successful," Bi-
fulk said. "I want to be a part of this as it
continues to grow and I want to keep it
going."
Although the Art House was estab-
lished with some help from the Eagan
Parks and Recreation Department and
registration for the classes is handled
through the department, the organiza-
tion operates independently of the city.
"We try to be totally self -funded," Bi-
ftilk said. "Our relationship with the city
and our location in a city park confuses
people; but we are independent of the
city"
One way the organization does that is
through the Eagan Arts Festival, for-
merly known as the Yankee Doodle Arts
Festival. which the Eagan Art House has
run for the past two years. The art festi-
val. which is slated for Saturday, .tune 21.
and Sunday, June 22, is the main
fundraiser for the organization.
The festival includes a juried art
show, a children's art tent, entertain-
ment and booths fea%iii-ing the artwork of
more than 100 local, regional and nation-
al artists. The show is'inoving to Sky Hill
Park, off Blackhawk Road and Highway
13, this year.
One more area that holds a lot of ex-
citement for the organization's volun-
teers is the potential for growth at the
Art House. While the organization is still
trying to get out the message that it ex-
ists in Eagan, its board would also like to
see it find a larger building.
Also on tap is an open house or some
other kind of celebration to mark the Art
House's fifth anniversary in the fall.
"The need is there and it does not sur-
prise me that it has grown so quickly,"
Gustafson said.
"We saw a need for a year-round arts
program and wanted to fulfill that need.
It would not surprise me if it continues
to grow and doubles in size over the next
five years."
For more information on the Art
House's programs or the Eagan Arts Fes-
tival, call the Art House at 651.686-9134 or
visit the Web site at www.eaganart-
house.org.
ORTS
ount
CHEERS
The Dakota United POHI adapted
softball team grabbed the consolation
title al the state tournament fast week-
end with a 8-2 win over Anoka -Hen-
nepin.
advances to state tourney
Andy Btenkush'Sun Newspapers
the Class 3A, Section 6 final May 29 at Eden Prairie.
nt in North Mankato.
falls in Section
ght-center sent
and Lyssa
nning for the
ded, the ball
Austin's run-
,rs were lost
top kids like
is pretty un-
id. "It was a
our kids up
couldn't get
in the one-
Uunt lost to
was 0-0 until
runs in the
some reason." Matheson said.
The season didn't end the way
the team wanted.
"We're a little disappointed
with the sectional play," Mathe-
son said. "We feel like we had a
pretty good shot at winning.
"If we did it over again, I think
we could have gone further."
Rosemount started out the
tournament strong defeating
Rochester Century 10-0 and Red
Wing 10-1 May 21.
"The tournament started out
real well." Matheson said.
Rosemount came in secor..1 in
the conference and it had one of
the best records "in recent memo-
ry." Matheson said, going 14-9.
"The team took a step in the
right direction," Matheson said.
Dream comes true
for young team
BY ANDY Ro ;ERS
Sun Newspapers
Two outs away from going to
the state tournament, the East -
view softball team collectively
started to sweat a little harder.
The team gave up its first run o
the section tournament and its
two -run lead started to deterio-
rate.
Up 2-1 in the top of the seventh
inning, Eastview needed two
more outs to earn its first berth to
state.
An infield fly eased the pres-
sure. but with the tying run on
second base. the gold medal still
looked far away.
For a split second. the game
looked like it was only going to get
worse. Defending champ Eden
Prairie's Molly McCann jacked
the softball deep into the outfield.
But leftfielder Ashley Merrick
made a catch she'll remember for
a long time as she stretched out
her arm running full speed leap-
ing for the final out.
"It's unbelievable," Eastview
coach Matt Percival said. "It's a
dream way to have it all happen.
"It's a dream come true for
these kids."
The Lightning won the Class
3A. Section 6 title by defeating the
defending state champs 2-1 May 29
on Eden Prairie's home field.
sending the Lightning to the state
tournament.
TOURNEY: To Page 20A
Little Eagan house gives home to the arts
Eagan Art House celebrates
its fifth anniversary
BY JosHUA N1cHol S
Sun Newspapers
Although the emphasis is
clearly on the arts, nearly as im•
portant at the Eagan Art House is
the last part of its name.
That's not only because the
five -year -old organization calls a
little house tucked into the en-
trance of Patrick Eagan Park its
home, but also because it aims to
provide a homey environment for
its visitors.
"There is so much joy here,"
Kay Gustafson said. "You cannot
walk away from this place with-
out saying. 'oh. that was good!'
This place is a home to so many
people. That's what happens
when you are able to open up to
creativity and explore arts in a
welcoming environment."
The building is north of Lex-
ington Avenue and Diffley Road.
The Art House offers classes
for all ages in everything from fig-
ure drawing to pottery (it has four
pottery wheels and two kilns) and
from jewelry making to tai chi.
ART: To Page 17A
EAGAN flpos,oi.;
City takes stand against
st handguns
They're not welcome on city property
Eagan has joined other
cities in Minnesota taking a
stand against guns on city
property: The City Council
recently approved signs that
will declare guns aren't "wel-
come" there.
The action has symbolic
significance because Eagan is
the home of Gov. Tim Pawlen-
ty. who signed the state's new
handgun law, and the unani-
mous vote came from the City
Council of which he was once a
member.
The signs are a reaction to
the new law that makes it easi-
er for people to obtain a con-
cealed -weapon permit but pre-
vents most local governments
from banning weapons on
their property.
Duluth's mayor approved
similar signs last week, and
other cities are considering
them-
Eagan's action Tuesday fol-
lows a proclamation the coun-
cil passed in May, urging modi-
fications to the law and asking
that cities be allowed to post
"No weapons allowed" signs
on city property. The council is
now considering whether it
can prohibit city employees,
other than police officers, from
bringing guns to work
The signs saying guns
aren't welcome amount to
"politically correct bigotry"
said John Calle, spokesman for
Minnesota Concealed Carry
Reform Now.
"These people are no differ-
ent than George Wallace and
the other segregationists who
basically stood in the halhvays
of public buildings and told
innocent citizens they weren't
wanted." he said. "This occurs
everywhere laws like this are
passed. ..- but it dies down
when they realize permit hold-
ers hold no threat to them."
— Mara H. Gottfried
...6, 1 u tell you that."
Standing firm Cif $/ ` 3
Nearly two years after be- ' ~`{'
ing transplanted, Eagan's
"Grandfather Tree" is almost
fully green and apparently
thriving on recent rains.
But lithe 140-year-old oak
were a patient, city Forester
Gre 4; Hove said, it would be
in "guarded condition," still
working its way through the
shock of being uprooted.
With more than $50,000 in
donations raised by the Ea-
gan Foundation, the oak tree
was moved in June 200 I to
make way for a road to the
city's new community center.
It now stands near the cen-
ter's entrance, and the area
around it was recently land-
scaped and will soon get a
bench and marker.
I love added that he be-
lieves the transplanting,
which was done by a Texas
firm, could serve as an exam-
ple of how large trees can be
saved during development.
Tell us about the people, issues
and events tasvur neighborhood
at inegrapeadpYr(bune.rom or
612-873-d
E<-, THISWEEK June 7. 2003 7A
Former manager accused of
stealing from car care business
by Brett .tndersen
TM, . •, WSPAPF.RS
Jiten Jagdish Trivedi, 22,
has been charged with stealing
thousands of dollars from a
former employer. according to
a complaint filed in Dakota
County District Court.
According to the com-
plaint. Trivedi was a district
manager for Precision Tune
Auto Care in charge of the
Eagan and Apple Valley
stores.
Trivedi allegedly was found
in possession of the business'
deposit envelopes. owners told
an investigator.
According to the com-
plaint, Trivedi would insist on
making deposits for the Apple
Valley store. Owners alleged
Trivedi removed cash from
one day's deposits and used
the checks from the next day's
deposits to replace the missing
2002 to February 2003 totaled
$1,284.60 from the Apple
Valley store and $76.55 from
the Eagan store.
Trivedi also reportedly
gave eight customers credits
and cash refunds, all of whom
denied ever receiving a cash
credit from the business.
according to the complaint.
The credits amounted to
$1,003.38.
Trivedi and one other per-
son had a key to a cash box
containing $200 for the pur-
pose of making change for an
adjoining car wash, according
to the complaint. The box was
opened and it was revealed
that $198.50 was missing.
Only $1.50 remained.
According to the com-
plaint. records of several pay-
ments made by customers to
Trivedi are missing and one
customer was overcharged by
more than $500 in two
nces.
According to the com-
plaint, Trivedi allegedly
directed the writing of more
than 5700 in checks without
permission, including $380 for
Minnesota Timberwolves tick-
ets.
One person also alleges that
Trivedi used his credit card at
Precision Auto Care on Dec. 6
and 7 without his consent.
Charges to the card totaled
$375.
Trivedi's current where-
abouts are unknown and he
does not have a permanent
address or phone number. A
warrant has been issued 'to
ensure his appearance in court.
if convicted. Trivedi faces a
maximum penalty of 10 years
and/or S20.000 for the theft
charge and 5 years and/or
S 10.000 for financial transac-
tion card fraud.
Brett Andersen is at
ay.thisweek@ecm-inc.com.
8A June 7. 2003 THISWEEK
Bicycles built for two
Tinkering leads to business venture on
by Job's Gessreer
WEEK NEWSPAPERS
A habitual tinkerer, Jim
Black has built everything
from cruise -missile engines to
his own one-man airplane.
His newest creation has
four wheels and doesn't leave
the ground. It's a `"quadribent"
— two recumbent bicycles
attached side by side.
This four-wheel bicycle
built for two with recumbent
(reclining) seats is especially
suited to special -needs chil-
dren and the elderly — those
who would have trouble bal-
ancing or powering a tradi-
tionat two -wheel bike, said
Black.
An aeronautical engineer
by trade, the 54-year-old
Burnsville resident received a
U.S. patent in May for his EZ-
1 Quadribent and EZ-1 Lite
Quadribent cycles. Through
his home -based Blackbird
Ao'
440,
{
fr ^,
�.4
•
Awada
ordered to hj "
continue
counseling
Michael Awada was
charged in May
with injuring son
by Erin Jobusoa
THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS
A judge will dismiss the
case against Michael Esau
Awada, husband of State
Auditor Pat Awada. if he con-
tinues to receive counseling.
Awada, of Eagan, was
charged in May with hitting his
teenage son with a chair.
Dakota County Judge
Robert King continued the case
on the condition that Awada
completes his counseling pro-
gram. Awada must also com-
plete paperwork necessary for
social services and remain law
abiding.
If those conditions are met.
Awada's case will be dismissed
in one year, King said,
Awada was charged May 2
with malicious punishment of a
child, a gross misdemeanor, for
allegedly striking his 17-year-
old son with a chair.
According to the complaint,
Awada and his son began argu-
ing the evening of May I after
the boy returned home two
hours late from riding his bike.
He yelled at his father when
his biking privileges were sus-
pended. and his father yelled
back. When the boy attempted
to put his father in an arm lock,
the complaint stated, Awada
broke free and picked up a
chair.
The boy then said, "Go
ahead and hit me." and Awada
swung the chair at the boy.
striking him in the arm, the
complaint said.
The boy climbed out his
bedroom window and ran to a
neighbor's house where police
were called.
See Awada, 7A
Awada/from 1A
The complaint stated that the
boy, whose aim was swollen, was
taken to to Children's Hospital
where a deep bruise was con-
firmed. His arm was not frac-
tured.
According to police, Awada,
39, confirmed the boy's version
of events when interviewed.
Awada was charged with
using unreasonable force or cruel
discipline that was excessive
under the circumstances and
resulted in Tess than substantial
bodily harm.
The I7-year-old is one of two
boys the Awadas adopted from
Bulgaria. The couple also has
two daughters.
Awada's case would typically
be handled by Eagan's city attor-
ney, but because Pat Awada is the
former mayor of Eagan, the ca'
was given to the county to avoid
a conflict of interest, said Monica
Jensen of the Dakota County
Attorney's Office.
If Awada fails to meet the
judge's conditions, his case will
come back to the courts.
Malicious punishment of a child
is punishable by up to one year in
jail and/or a $900 to $3000 fine.
Erin Johnson is at
eagan. this week@ ecm-rnc. rrnn.
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State cuts $1.3 million in aid to Eagan
City could levy back up to 60 percent through property taxes
by Erin Johnson
t HISK F.IL ' SPAFt.RS
The city of Eagan will not
rrceive any state aid for the next
Iwo years. which could result in
a property tax increase and
service cuts for Eagan resi-
dents.
The tax bill passed by the
state legislature will cut $1.3
million in Local Government
Aid (LGA) and Market Value
Homestead Credit (MVHC) to
Eagan in both 2003 and 2004.
While most cities took a big
hit in state aid, Eagan and
Burnsville are the only area
cities to lose both their LGA
and MVHS.
According to the bill, cities
will be able to levy back 60 per-
cent of the lost aid in 2004
through property tax increases,
but cannot recoup their loss for
2003.
If Eagan levies back 60 per-
cent of its $1.3 million loss, the
city would recoup $791,359,
decreasing the total loss to
about $527,000.
That doesn't sound so bad,
said Eagan City Administrator
Tom Hedges, until you factor in
inflation and increasing
expenses.
"Somehow we have to offset
all of that plus this $527.000
with some reductions some-
place. Something's got to give."
he said. "We have to balance
our budget. And that's the chal-
lenge we're dealing with right
now."
While Eagan didn't levy the
maximum amount allowed last
year, the new bill makes it clear
that it's the city's loss.
"We levied $400,000 less
than we could have levied, and
now they're readjusting our
base and we can't levy that
back," he said.
The ability to levy back only
a portion of the lost state aid
doesn't address the issue of
inflation and rising costs, he
said.
"We're talking about just the
loss of LGA and market value
credit and being able to levy 60
percent of that. We can't levy
anything else." he said. "We
haven't talked about inflation.
Electric bills are going up,
health insurance is increasing,
etc. And that's all going to be an
increase."
The city typically looks to
government aid, property taxes
and licenses to offset those
increases. he said. Now that
state aid is being taken away. he
said, "We can't levy any addi-
tional increase in property tax
to offset inflation in other
things."
The city has been preparing
for a worst case scenario since
last year. Hedges said.
"We were anticipating it last
fall because the handwriting
was on the wall that they might
take money away this year. and
See Cuts, 7A
T
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Cuts/from lA
then 2004 and 2005 will
bly be the same thing." he said
Because a loss of aid is
for 2005, the city will prepare
two-year budget to antici
shortfalls, he said.
"We don't see this changi
2005," he said_ "Most indi
in a biennium budget suggest
there's no reason to beli
they're going to come up wi
pool of money to reinstate all
this in 2005"
Even with the cuts. Eagan
in a better position to handle
loss than many other cities,
said.
The city has had a long-stand-
ing practice of being fiscally con-
servative, he said. In fact, Eagan
has the lowest taxes per capita of
any city in Minnesota with more
than 50,000 people.
"We are lean.I don't know
how else to put it." he said. "We
are a lot leaner in terms of
employees (than other cities), so
we have fewer people doing
more services."
Property owners have benefit-
ted in the past from Eagan's
growth. Hedges said, and that
was reflected in their property
taxes. Even when the city has
raised levy amounts, many prop-
erty owners did not see an
increase in their taxes. he said.
Because the city's valuation
has been increasing over the past
several years, "there's more prop-
erty to spread these taxes to," he
said. "Even with that increase,
we still realized a property tax
decrease in many cases. That's
been pretty much the case every
year. .,
proba- In addition, the city has never
relied heavily on LGA. Hedges
likely said. Last year, for instance,
a Eagan only received $71,000 in
pate LGA.
The MVHC, however, makes
ng in up a larger chunk of state aid that
cators Eagan has relied upon. Of the
that $1.3 million cut, $1.2 million was
eve MVHC.
th a The city has taken some pre -
of liminary measures to deal with
the Toss. such as training restric-
is tions for city staff' and a hiring
the freeze_ There are currently six
he vacancies that will go unfilled.
Hedges said, from police officers
and a dispatcher to maintenance
workers and a part-time clerical
position_
"What's hard is that services
� , provided by people. If you
vacancies or positions.
what impact does that have on
the service delivery?" he said.
"There's a direct correlation
between labor and service."
City officials will also have to
wrestle with what services might
need to be cut, he said.
"That's the part that I think is
really challenging, to figure out
what programs and services can
we continue to offer with the
budget constraints that we have,"
he said_
A preliminary budget will be
presented to the council in June,
Hedges said, and the final budget
will be adopted in December.
Erin Johnson is at
eagan. thisweekeecmerne.corn.
h
e
e
Kudos to Eagan
City Council for
gun resolution
To the editor.
Sincere thanks and praise are
u due to Mayor Geagan and the
e entire Eagan City Council for
supporting a resolution in opposi-
y tion to the new concealed gun
permit law.
e These leaders recognized the
y huge number of flaws that are
s abundant in the law and stepped
up to do something about it They
e recognized that for the first time
g permit holders can go bar -hop-
ping. then drive to city meetings;
II and community properties while:
carrying a gun. Consuming oleo...-.
hol whik carrying a gun was,
• specifically prohibited in writing
on the former permit.
The Council recognized that
e most other concealed carry states
i, do not issue permits to people
who commit significant crimes,
e grass misdemeanors and those
who have "issues" such as anger
n management problems, sub_
• stance abuse and people on pre-
▪ scription psychotropic drugs.
g
71
d
The Council also recognized
that most of the -other 34 con-
cealed carry states. including
Arkansas and Texas, have laws
far better than Minnesota. Almost
all other states require applicants
to supply fingerprints and crimi-
nal histories. only a kw states
hand out permits to non-resi-
dents.
Finally the Council is aware
that these people cannot be
denied a permit under loose crite-
ria in the new law and when
granted a permit cannot he barred
from city meetings, parks and
arenas. The Council was not
happy with many provisions in
the law but resolved to oppose
those elements that specifically
threaten the safety of their con-
stituents.
1 find it ironic that every
mayor, every police chief and the
majority of every council in the
surrounding communities oppose
this law. Yet every one of our leg-
islators voted for it.
As a handgun owner myself. I
don't object to granting permits to
squeaky clean persons who have
a need. But since permit holders
no longer must meet that stan-
dard. businesses, bars, restaurants
and even churches will be forced
to post large, ugly signs.
I, for one, will see the faces of f.
Gov. Pawlenty and the Eagan leg- 1
islators superimposed on each
sign 35 1 walk through the door,
2A Apple VaileylRosemount, Eagan Sun Cum, June 19, 2003
www.mnSun.com
public buildings
EAGAN CITY COUNCIL
Guns 'not welcome' in Eagan's
BY JusHVA N1CHoi s
Sun Newspapers
The city where Gov. Tim Pawlenty got
his start in politics wants to distance it-
self from provisions in the less restric-
tive state gun law he signed into law last
month.
The Eagan City Council voted unani-
mously during a special session June 10
to post signs reading "Guns are not wel-
come here" at the entrances to all its pub-
lic buildings.
City Administrator Tom Hedges said
the city respects opinions on both sides
of the conceal and carry issue, but that
the issue was one of safety for the city.
"What's most important is that our
citizens and employees feel safe while
conducting their business in city build-
ings," Hedges said after the decision.
Pawlenty, who supported the changes
in the bill and signed it into law, got his
start in politics as an Eagan City Coun-
cil member and remains an Eagan resi-
dent.
The Eagan Council had earlier in May
urged modifications to the state's new
conceal and carry weapons law.
The council wants the Minnesota Per-
sonal Protection Act amended to specifi-
cally allow cities to post "No Weapons Al-
lowed" signs in city hall or on city -owned
property.
Eagan asked for the modifications
about a week before the law went into ef-
fect , but the law was enacted without
change May 28-
Although the law as its now written
does not give cities the authority to ban
weapons, that doesn't mean cities can't
discourage guns, Hedges said.
Eagan's action to post the "Guns Are
Not Welcome Here" signs is modeled on
a similar policy being implemented in
Duluth.
The council is also studying a policy
where it could prohibit employees. other
than peace officers, from bringing
firearms to work.
The council is expected to take action
on an employee policy in the near future.
said Tom Garrison. Eagan communica-
tions coordinator.
The newly passed Protection Act al-
lows private property owners to post
signs and regulate concealed weapons on
their property, but cities are not allowed
to restrict permit holders on municipal
property, thus precluding any local con-
trol.
According to the resolution adopted
by the Eagan City Council the council
found "no rational justification" for hav-
ing different access rights for private
property vs. city property.
GUNS: To Page 18A
www.mnSun.com
tit l b
Jason Petterson from Burnsville Animal Control holds Spirit.
Spirit
From Page 10A
"People have brought in almost $500
in donations," said Stedillie. "Officers
'havebeen in and out since she was
brought in, and they've spread the
word."
Petterson, who took the dog home late
last week, is trying to get an idea of Spir-
it's temperament so that he can try. to
find her a permanent home. The Petter-
sons own three dogs and two cats already.
"It's an excellent chance for her to so-
cialize," he said. "She realizes that there
are more people that want to give her a
• good home than what her past owners
did."'
Patterson said that there have been a
number of inquiries from people who
want to adopt her.
"We want to make sure that whoever
Submitted photo
adopts is a very capable dog owner, not
just someone who feels bad for her." he
said. "That's commendable, but to put
her in a home that's not the right one
means uprooting her again.
"We hope it's the last home she stays
at."
Hawkins said that the generosity of
Arneson and the MVC couldn't be over
looked.
"It was really decent of the vets to
take care of her. Obviously, they can't
take in every stray and perform
surgery," he said. "It was quite an act of
generosity and kindness on their part."
Said Petterson: "We want to thank
everyone who has contributed. 1 know a
lot of anonymous donations came in,
and we want to make sure people know
it's appreciated."
Or anyone is interested in making a do-
nation, stop by the Minnesota Veterinary
Center at 950 W. Burnsville Parkway, or
call 952-894-2870.
www.mnSun.com
"We figured out how to incorporate it
into her life so that it's just another part
of her life now," Moe said. "She's not a di-
abetic teenager, she's just a teenager who
happens to have diabetes."
A special opportunity
That being said, Leah and her family
would like nothing more than to see a
cure for diabetes, hence her trip to Wash-
ington D.C. for the. Children's Congress,
which has taken place every other year
since 1999.
During the Children's Congress, Leah
and the other children representatives
from around the country will meet with
their local congressional delegates and
• explain what it's like to have type 1 dia-
betes. They will also testify before a con-
gressional committee urging motrftmd-
ing for research into the disease.
A volunteer panel selected Leah,
Edina resident Tonimy Glass, 12, and the
other 198 delegates from among a field of
more than 800 children who applied by
writing a letter as if they were writing to
their congressperson about diabetes.
Leah, who is already involved in vari-
ous JDRF fundraising activities, decided
the opportunity was too good to pass up.
"It really seemed like a unique oppor-
tunity and there's not anything else like
this," Leah said. "What sets it apart is it
really is about the kids. There are lots of
other activist efforts that go before Con-
gress on children's issues, but this one
uses the children themselves. It kind of
makes it more personal for Congress."
What she will tell the members of
Congress is that despite her best at-
tempts, her disease still does affect her
life and oilers potentially life -threaten-
ing complications.
"They sometimes only see the num-
bers on the bills and that information.
doesn't represent people and how it will
affect them," Leah said. "I want to show
them what it's like on a day-to-day basis
and show them what life is like when you
have diabetes."
Daily effects
Leah must continuously monitor her
blood sugar and gives herself insulin
shots six times a day. She's learned that
if her blood sugar is too low, she cannot
practice tennis and finds it hard to con-
centrate on studying. And she can test
herself constantly, do everything she is
supposed to do and still suffer complica-
tions.
"It's inconvenient," Leah said. "A lot
of the situations you find yourself in,
none of the other kids are dealing with
it. It seems insignificant, but when you
are dealing with it every hour of life for
12 years, it adds up."
Leah learned how to check her own
blood sugar only two weeks after her ini-
tial diagnosis.
With her parents going out of town for
two weeks, she wanted to surprise them
and not have to require her aunt to take
her readings while they were gone. So
she taught herself how to do it. Eventu-
EAGAN
2 charged in indoor
pot -growing scheme
Two men were charged in
U.S. District Court in Minneapo-
lis Tuesday with manufacturing
marijuana after authorities
found approximately 535 mari-
juana plants in a pole barn in
Eagan Monday, according to the
criminal complaint.
The seizure was the seennA_
SOUTH SUBURBAN BRIEFING
largest for a marijuana growing
operation in Dakota County,
said Sgt. John Grant, head of
the task force. Last year, about
4,000 plants were found in a
Burnsville warehouse, accord-
ing to a past Pioneer Press arti-
cle.
In the latest bust, Arash
Allaei, 21, of Wayzata, and
Unanaonwi Okpoyo, 24, of St.
Paul, were arrested Monday.
When the two men rented
the barn on Biscayne Avenue
near Red Pine Lane th,•v
allegedly claimed they planned
to store about $1 million in com-
puter equipment there, Grant
said. The building owner is not a
suspect, he said,
According to the criminal
complaint, Okpoyo and Allaei
rented the storage facility in
May, paying cash for the lease.
The two men had replaced
glass windows with dark glass,
preventing anyone from seeing
inside. During the investiga-
tion, officers found a garbage
bag outside the storage facility
that contained marijuana
plants.
Both men were found at the
storage facility when officers
were preparing to execute a
search warrant Monday. Offt
cers said they found a large-
scale indoor marijuana growing
operation and recovered plants
In various stages of growth. A
sample of the plants tested posi-
tive for marijuana.
- Amu Sherman
Andy BlenkusNSuF Newspapers
Eagan teen Miles Garvey helped orchestrate the upcoming Eagan Film Festival. Miles, who pro-
duces his own films, does much of his work on his home computer.
Where the community
looks for work!
Sun Newspapers • www.mnSun.com
952-392-6888
Teen's film passion
spurs festival
Eagan Film Festival June 21-22 during
Eagan Art Festival at Sky Hill Park
BY JosImA NICHOCS
Sin Newspapers
On one side of the room. just to the left of a
"Jaws" movie poster, is a shelf filled with
videos - the mathematical-themed sci-fi
thriller "Pi," British television comedies and
the classic comedies of Laurel and Hardy.
On the other side of the room, just below
the poster from Alfred Hitchcock's "The
Birds" another movie is playing on the screen
of a personal computer.
This one, however. isn't one that thousands
of people have seen in the theaters or on tele-
vision, but rather a short film created by a 15-
year -old filmmaker who calls this downstairs
space in an Eagan house his workspace.
"I like movies and love going to see
movies," Miles Garvey says.
FILM: To Page 8A
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Film
From Page 1A
"But I would see some of these movies
that I felt were no good and was disap-
pointed in them. I started thinking I
could do better than that if 1 had some
better equipment."
Miles has been making films for near-
ly two years. What started as just him
and his friends videotaping themselves
skateboarding has turned into a growing
passion and the spark that has formed
Eagan's first film festival.
The festival, which is slated to be part
of the Eagan Art Festival Saturday, June
21, and Sunday, June 22, at Sky Hill Park,
started out during a down time in Miles'
production company he made with his
cousin, Joe Nelson. Sky Hill Park is at
the intersection of Blue Cross and Black -
hawk roads just east of Highway 13.
"We were having a low time in our
production company and we were sitting
around talking one day when we said,
'Hey, we should try to do a film festival so
we'd have a place to show our films.' We
were just throwing ideas around and it
sounded like a good idea." Miles says.
To Miles' surprise, not only did the
city take to the idea immediately, but the
process of putting together the festival
moved much more quickly than he could
have imagined.
Miles says when he and Nelson sug-
gested the idea, they thought it would be
a year out or more, instead it's been four
months since he made the proposal.
Aspiring Eagan filmmakers like
Miles will have the opportunity to dis-
play their amateur feature films, docu-
mentaries, music videos and short films
during the festival. A panel of experts
will judge the films, with the first -place
films in three different categories for
both adults and youth winning ;100
prizes.
After Miles and a friend approached
the city with the idea, they were direct-
ed to the Eagan Parks and Recreation
Department, which quickly embraced
the idea. Along with the department's
Eagan Teen Advisory Board, the Eagan
Healthy Community Initiative and the
Eagan Lions, the festival fast became a
reality.
The creator of four films of various
lengths, including one music video and
three short features, Miles shoots with
an 8 mm digital video camera and edits
his footage using his computer and high
tech editing and special effects pro-
grams.
His fifth film, "It Grows inside," will
be finished by the time of the festival and
will be screened with the other selec-
tions.
The film is about a titan, played by Nel-
son. who loves mathematics and turns to
a special plant to give him powers to
solve a particular problem. However, the
plant mixture causes him to live in a
world of hallucinations before the prob-
lem's answer appears to him.
With his favorite film being the "The
Birds" and Hitchcock listed among his
favorite directors, it's no wonder that
Miles' films tend toward the suspenseful
or fantastic.
"I really like the horror, the drama
and the suspense Hitchcock put into 'The
Birds,'" Miles says.
"Like a lot of great movies, it left you
hanging at the end. It's really suspense-
ful and those are the kinds of things I
like in movies."
Although Miles took a videography
class at Eagan High School during the
first trimester of the recently completed
school year, most of his expertise has
been self-taught. Miles was home -
schooled during the last part of the year
and plans to attend community college
in the fall.
It was his cousin, who now lives in
Madison, Wis., who started him making
films. With his only filmmaking experi-
ence being the times he videotaped his
friends skateboarding, his cousin asked
him one day if he wanted to work with
him to make a film.
That first effort led to a short film fea-
turing a dream sequence involving a
stone jaguar. The next attempt was a
short fantasy filin titled "River of Tears"
www.mnSun.com
and then an attempt at horror, his fa-
vorite genre, called "III" that featured
himself being stalked by a creature
while home alone.
"It's mostly just from ourselves,"
Miles says when asked where he gets his
ideas. "We will sit around and think of
the most elaborate ideas, just some stu-
pid things and kind of shoot things off
each other like we are playing Ping-
Pong. Eventually when we like an idea
enough, we film it."
Miles says he would like to continue
making films and wouldn't mind doing it
as a career,
"Whatever comes of it comes of it,"
Miles says. "I pretty much 1 Eke just doing
this right now and I would love to have
the chance to keep doing it, but I'll have
to see what comes of it,"
In the end, he hopes the film festival
will attract more people to making films
and spur more interest in films in gener-
al.
"Maybe some people who go to the fes-
tival will become more interested in
something like this," Miles says. "Hope-
fully some wilt come out saying, 'Hey, 1
could do something like that,' and then
they go off and do that. As long as people
enjoy it and it maybe gets more people
into film, that would be great."
For more information on the _festival,
contact Eagan Arts Festival Director
Tammy Sulistyo at 651.688.8991.
www.mnSun.com
Apple Valley/Rosemount, Eagan SunCurrent/Thursday, June 12, 2003 7A
New principal brings enthusiasm
Suzanne Kreuser to begin position
July 1 at Falcon Ridge
By ERICA Cna1STOFFRR
Sun Newspapers
Suzanne Kreuser said she will bring a
passion and dedication to middle -level
education with her when she becomes
the new principal at Falcon Ridge Mid-
dle School July 1.
"I have watched and admired the dis-
trict for years," Kreuser said.
The quality of education, specifically
at the middle -school level, attracted her
to District 196.
"I am humbled by the opportunity,"
Kreuser said, adding that she is ready to
step into the position and continue the
excellence that already has been estab-
lished at Falcon Ridge.
Kreuser said her first goal as Falcon
Ridge's principal would be to build rela-
tionships with parents, students and
staff while obtaining a true understand-
ing of the existing program.
She said that "a love to the core of
middle -level students and education"
has fueled her career:
In 1985, Kreuser started her career in
education at McGuire Junior High
School in Lakeville as a physical educa-
from Minnesota State, Mankato. She re-
ceived her administrative Iicensure
from the University of Minnesota.
"I have always gravitated toward lead;
ership roles," Kreuser said.
She said her leadership abilities, ca-
reer experience and love for middle
school qualify her for the position at Fal-
con Ridge. As principal. Kreuser said, she as-
sumes the role of a "servant leader" to
education stakeholders. Challenges
arise when making time for all. those in-
volved.
"It's the challenge of wearing many
hats," Kreuser-said. "1 enjoy a chal-
lenge."
Each clay at the middle -school level is
filled with a variety of issues and en-'
deavors, Kreuser said. -
"No two days are the same," Kreuser
said.
Students in sLxth, seventh and eighth
.grades have significantly different needs
socially, emotionally and physically than
any other educational level, she said. For
this reason, schools should respond to
those needs with multiple services while
staying student -centered in efforts.
The most vital part, she said, is devel-
oping relationships with the students.
Those relationships allow staff to tackle
curriculum in a more effective manner.
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www.mnSun.com
CITY COUNCIL
Eagan accepts $10,000 grant
to operate youth programs
BY JOSHUA NICHOLS ture. The city intends to use the proper -
Sun Newspapers ty as an athletic complex to fill the city's
increasing demand for field space.
The Eagan City Council has accepted Plans for the site include an open
a $10,000 grant that will allow the city to space of 440 feet by 720 feet for turf
continue to support youth activities at sports such as soccer and lacrosse, a
Quarry Park. paved parking lot for 120 vehicles. a
The Eagan Parks and Recreation De- storm water control system and water
partment and School District 197 have service extending to a fire hydrant near
submitted applications to the Local Col- the parking lot.
laborative Time Study (LCTS) grant pro- The council approved a contract with
gram for the past four years. Imperial Development in February to do
The city and the district received a the improvements at a cost of $439,904.
total of $17,000 in grant money for the While doing work at the site, Imperial
2002-2003 school year and applied again Development discovered that the soil at
this year. The council officially accepted the site has a high clay content, making
the new grant during its June 3 meeting. it inadequate for the growth of suitable
The $10.000 received this year will athletic turf.
support youth development programs The base contract for the work at the
for the next school year. The funds will park included the importation of 3 inch -
cover after school recreation, school sup- es of high quality topsoil at the cost of
port and summer programs as well as ef- $12.25 per cubic yard. The high quality
forts to let people know about recre- soil was intended to supplement topsoil
ational activities in the community. materials salvaged from the site.
The strategy behind the effort is to Because of soil problems and less sal -
target "at -risk youth," "latchkey kids," vageable soil then originally anticipat-
and families with low incomes or who ed, additional high quality topsoil is
live in isolated neighborhoods. needed. Topsoil of the required quality
In other business at the meeting: is available at the Argosy University con-
• The council approved a change order struction site near the Eagan Communi-
to a contract providing top soil and land- ty Center free of charge. Transporting
scaping to Thresher Fields, an open area that soil will cost an additional $4.36 per
in northern Eagan that is being trans- cubic yard to add the required 3 inches of
formed into a field sports area. topsoil.
The undeveloped park, formerly The original base bid for the project
known as North Fields Park. to the was nearly $200.000 under the project
northwest of Yankee Doodle Road and cost estimate. Funds for the changes to
Highway 149, was acquired by the city the park are coming from money allocat-
from the state in 2000 through tax forfei- ed in the city's Park Site Fund.
www.mnSun.com
District 191 directors to vot
Budget, kindergarten addressed
during recent meeting
BY Lowry GOLDSMITH
Sun Nempepers
Despite being on uncertain financial
ground until the state Legislature fin-
ished its session last month. the School
District 191 Board of Education has a
budget to ponder for next year.
Business Manager Carter Christie
made a budget presentation at last
Thursday's meeting, June 5,.detailing a
budget that has revenues of $117 million
but sets up a budget deficit of more than
$2.3 million.
The Board of Education will make its
decision on the budget at next Thurs-
day's meeting, June 19.
Christie's presentation was an
overview of the packets that board di-
rectors had received.
"The budget itself is almost 1,000
pages long," Christie said. "It's a signifi-
cant document."
The budget is also not set in stone.
While it must be adopted by July, the
start of the fiscal year, it is subject to re-
visions.
"The budget represents the best esti-
Eagan senior wins $500
scholarship
Eagan High School senior Ryan T.
Cutshall is the winner of the local 2003
Padgett Business Services Foundation
Scholarship.
Ryan is the son of Mary Ellen Cut -
mate of revenues and expenditures,"
Christie said. "It provides a guide for fu-
ture expectations and activities."
The general fund makes up the largest
portion of both revenues and expendi-
tures at more than $95 million and $97
million respectively.
The other funds that make up the an-
nual budget are: food service, communi-
ty service, capital projects, debt service,
trust and agency and internal service.
Because the referendum passed last
November, the district will have almost
$300 more per student to spend, which
will help offset the loss of state funding.
The largest portion of general fund
revenue comes from state general educa-
tion aid, at almost $65 million. Property
taxes make up the next largest source of
revenue at;13 million, which is signifi-
cantly reduced, Christie said, from last
year because of legislative tax reforms
made in 2001.
Other local revenue, state categorical
aid, state tax credits and federal aid ac-
count for the rest of the money in the
general fund revenue category
Nearly 80 percent of the general fund
is spent on salaries and benefits.
Also at Thursday's meeting:
• The Board of Education approved a
recommendation for the evaluation of
EDUCATID
shall, who owns Cutshall Partners. To
qualify for the scholarship, applicants
must be the dependent of an indepen-
dent business owner.
"The candidates for this $500 scholar-
ship are always exceptional," said Steve
Pelner. owner and operator of the Pad-
gett's Burnsville office. "However. Ryan
utshall llii' Ctrnn' nnrennnl ....A
be
N
tut
sch
am
ante
the
Nor
gett
port
MENDOTA HEIGHTS
Contract renewal caused earlier controversy
BY JOHN WELSH keeping his job, but the school's
Pioneer Press headmaster at the time
resigned.
St. Thomas Academy princi- In a letter Tuesday to par -
pal Bob Slater resigned this ents and students, interim head -
week from the Mendota Heights master Robert Ostlund said a
Catholic school where he had recent task force recommended
taught for more than 20 years. eliminating Slater's position as
Slater's position at the school principalldean of students and
was the center of controversy a creating a new position of assis-
year ago when supporters ral- tant headmaster.
Iced behind him after it "Bob came to the conclusion
appeared his contract would not that the new position is not the
be renewed. Slater ended up right fit for him," Ostlund's let-
,1/403
Principal resigns at St. Thomas Academy
ter said. "He retains his warm
feelings for the academy, but
chose to resign at this time."
A phone message left with
Slater's family was not
returned.
Slater was named dean of
students in 1991. For the past
decade he also served as head
football coach for the school. He
will continue to work with the
football team as a volunteer
coach.
"He's been there a long time
and has done a wonderful job,"
said Bill (.abler, the school
board chairman. "He will be
missed."
St. Thomas is a 117-year-old.
all -male military school with 700
students from grades seven
through 12.
Earlier this month, the
school named Orono superin-
tendent Thomas Barrett Mich
as headmaster. He assumes the
job following the next school
year.
John Welsh covers education and
can be reached at (6511228-5432
or welsh(apioneerpress.corn .
'1121°-3
LOCAL NEWS
WWW.TWINCITIES.COM ■ ST. PAUL PIONEER PRESS
SOUTH SUBURBS
EAGAN
Council takes Silver Bell's liquor permit
Store cited for selling alcohol to minors
BY MARA H. GOTTFRIED
Pioneer Press
The Eagan City Council took
an unprecedented step Tuesday
night by revoking the liquor
license of Silver Bell Liquor,
which has been cited for selling
to underage patrons.
Mayor Pat Geagan, the city's
former police chief, said that in
his 30 years of law enforcement,
he had "never seen such fla-
grant violations. There's no
excuse for it"
The store was cited 12 times
in a recent seven -week period
— all involving the same clerk
suspected of selling alcohol to
people under 21.
The council was only consid-
ering four violations (two of the
12 were later dismissed, eight
violations were counted as one
because they occurred on the
same day, and an additional
citation from January 2001 was
added).
Rebecca Adams, attorney for
Silver Bell Liquor, said she
would appeal her client's case to
the Minnesota Court of Appeals.
Balbir Shoker, the owner of
Silver Bell Liquor, recognized
the city's "grave concerns,"
Adams said and decided he
should sell his business.
He's been working to sell the
store, but Tuesday's decision
could "cripple the ability to sell
the business at all," Adams
said.
The revocation, which
passed unanimously, is effective
immediately. The store also
faces a $4,000 penalty from the
city.
"We need to send a clear
message to the liquor stores ...
that this is not acceptable,"
said council member Cyndee
Fields.
Mara H. Gottfried corers Eagan,
the Metropolitan Council and
suburban growth. She can be
reached at (651) 228,5262 or
mgottfried(apioneerpress.com.
WEDNESDAY,
JULY 2,
2003
ST. PAUL PIONEER PRESS
LOCAL NE\
INSIDE
TODAY
ST. PAUL
Blakey might
change mind,
seek council
re-election
Peg* 29
SOUTH SUBURBAN EDITION • WWW.TWINCITIES.COW
ST. PAUL
Body found near site of ri
BY BILL GARDNER
Pioneer Press
Recreational boaters on Tuesday
found a body believed to be that of an
18-year-old woman who disappeared
Saturday night in the Mississippi River
A Ramsey County sheriff's spokes-
man said the body was that of a young
woman and that the county medical
examiner would make a positive iden-
tification based on medical records.
The boaters spotted the body about
7 p.m. in the river near Pig's Eye
Downtown Airport.
Anne Kirsten Nelson
missing since she and
Sibet, also 18, floated dow-
on a raft made of pieces of'
and hit a moored barge
Lafayette Bridge in do
MONDAY, JUNE 30.2003
METRO/STATE
* STAR TRIBUNE • PAGE 133
CENTER from B1
One st uciy looks at turning
nature area into golf course
NAME
Fridley faces a $1.7 million
reduction in state aid in the
span of 2003, '04 and '05. Low
interest rates have also re-
duced city revenues because
the investment of surplus
funds is drawing less interest
income.
Those dire realities weren't
lost on a group of more than
100 Springbrook supporters
who gathered at the center re-
cently to organize efforts to
save the nature preserve.
Among proposals they're ready
to challenge is a feasibility
study on turning it into a reve-
nue -producing golf course.
"This place is a sitting duck
because Fridley is running out
of places to build and this is
one of the last areas that hasn't
been developed," said Gloria
Campbell, an art teacher from
Blaine whose daughter works
at one of Springbrook's sum-
mer camps. `Housing develop-
ments or new businesses
would mean tax revenue .. .
and closing down the nature
center is just the first step. How
long do you think they'll allow
the land to sit idle?"
Saving Sprinbrook
Supporters of Springbrook Na-
ture Center hope to persuade
city leaders to preserve funding
for the natural area.
July 8: Save Springbrook meeting
at 7 p.m. at the nature center,
100 85th Av. NE., Fridley, be-
tween University Av. NE. and E.
River Rd.
July 10: Raly at 7 p. m. at Fridley
City Hall, 6431 University Av. NE.
July 14: City Council meeting at 7
p.m. will include discussion of pos-
sible alternative uses for the site,
including a golf course.
July 26: 2 p.m. Save Springbrook
rally at nature center.
More Information: The Save
Springbrook campaign can be
reached by contacting Clem Nagel
at cnagel@cpinternet.net or 763-
572-0633, or Malcolm Mitchell at
mpmitchell@elderberry.org or
651-649-0315.
But with six entrances to
Springbrook, that would mean
•
PAGE B4 • STAR TRIBUNE *
METRO/STATE
MONDAY, JUNE 30.2003
Duane Braley/Star Tribune
Wiser -Diggs held his 23-month-old daughter. Elinor, at Sun -
Minnesota's new gun law.
Handgun law is an activist catalyst
Protesters at Eagan rally include a couple of new faces in the crowd
By Nolan Zavoral
Star Tribune Staff Writer
Minnesota's new handgun
law has done more than make
it easier for citizens to carry a
weapon in public. It also has
given rise to opponents taking
their first plunge into political
activism.
Among them are Dominic
and Sandy Hilleshein, a mar-
ried couple from Dodge Cen-
ter, Minn., who attended their
first rally against the law Sun-
day at the Eagan Community
Center. They stood with about
150 other people to hear
speeches and songs and to sign
petitions against the law,
which has led to hundreds of
new permit -holders since Gov.
Tim Pawlenty signed the bill in
April.
"This is my first rally of any
kind," Sandy Hilleshein said
before nearly two hours of
speeches and songs. "This
whole thing scares me. I don't
see why people have to have
them — guns — and now they
can be concealed,"
The Hillesheins are in their
50s. Dominic is a teacher, and
Sandy is a mortgage lender.
Both signed and circulated pe-
titions to repeal the handgun
law.
I've never been for guns,
period," Dominic Hilleshein
said. "And I don't understand
why the rush to get this into
law so quick — on the part of
the legislators and the gover-
nor."
It was no accident that the
rally was held in Pawlenty's
home suburb of Eagan.
"It's in the governor's back
yard ... so that the governor
will listen to people in Minne-
sota," said Rep. Nora Slawik,
DFL-Maplewood. "He signed it
the day it was passed. He didn't
seem to take time to read it."
Slawik said more than 7,000
people from throughout Min-
nesota had signed the repeal
petition. The goal was 10,000
signatures "by State Fair time,"
she said, adding that she knew
it would be an uphill fight.
"Our second option would
be td get the [current law[ fixed
up." she said. "If guns were not
allowed by law In churches and
businesses, it would be a much
better bill."
Gail Voss, a lawyer and edi-
tor from St. Paul, attended the
rally with her 4-year-old
daughter, Sadie.
"I'm not against guns in
general," she said. "I grew up in
South Dakota, and my father
and my brothers hunted. But I
believe that by carrying a
handgun you're willing to say
you'd shoot another human
being. I don't understand
that.
Slawik said before the rally
that she had heard a rumor
that a supporter of the gun law
planned to show up wearing a
holstered gun, even though a
sign banning guns was promi-
nently displayed outside the
large meeting room. No such
person was seen among the
handful of gun -law supporters
quietly holding signs outside
the room.
"Something like that would
be politically dumb," said Tim
Grant of Richfield, one of the
sign -carriers. He showed his
new plastic gun -permit card
and said the fear of violence ex-
pressed by many people in the
room is unfounded.
"It's been shown in FBI
crime statistics that crime goes
down in states with conceal -
and -carry laws," he said.
But Chuck Handlon, a high
school chemistry teacher from
Rochester, sees it differently,
based on the official legislative
estimate that gun -holders in
Minnesota would increase
from 12,000 to 90,000.
"You can't do a cost analysis
on something like this," he
said. "You should assume that
with this law, gun injuries and
deaths increase. Even if you say
you don't have 15 times [the
crimel because of the permits,
is any of that worth a single
death?"
Nolan Zavoral is at
rszavoraN@startribune_cons
MIN.NESOTA TOO
A 2.5 e
www.
mnzoo.
0 r g
City should obey
water rules, too
To the editor:
As I drove into work Thurs-
day. June 26, 1 noticed all sprin-
klers were on at the city park at
Diffley and Lexington. I
thought this was odd, since
Eagan had just received several
inches of rain in the last couple
of days. I also realized that the
park is on the odd numbered
side of the road as its address is
4201 Lexington Ave. (according
to the city's Web site). Since this
is an odd numbered address and
it was an even numbered day,
according to Eagan's odd/even
watering program, the park
shouldn't be getting watered. in
addition to the fact that it didn't
need it.
I called the city's parks de-
partment to let them know
L about it thinking they would
thank me and turn the sprin-
klers off. Instead. I was told that
although the watering ban ap-
plied to all property within
Eagan, including city parks, the
parks don't obey the watering
ban since they are such big
parcels of property. After many
searches on the city's Web page.
I found the watering rules and
they state only one exception to
the rule and that is for new sod
or landscaping.
I find the city's arrogant re-
fusal to follow its own rules hyp-
ocritical and wasteful. The city
spends hundreds of dollars on
street signs and billing inserts
promoting the watering ban. If
the city has no intention of fol-
lowing its ordinance, I think it
would be more honest to amend
the ordinance so that it ex-
cludes city property. Or, per-
haps the city should post signs
on all entrances to city build-
ings stating: "The city of Eagan
discourages city staff from vio-
lating the odd/even watering
ban."
Emmett Salberg
Eagan
www.mnsun.com
Saving
Our
Wetlands
Volunteers
preserve
Cedar Pond Park
in Eagan
Photos by
Sun Newspapers
photographer
Andy Blenkush
These tadpoles have celebrity
status, although they don't
know it. A release of tadpoles
was only one highlight of a wet-
lands restoration demonstra-
tion June 25 at Cedar Pond Park.
The project is one of the first in
the nation to develop a program
using local volunteers to moni-
tor the biological health of wet-
lands. Eagan has joined with the
Legislative Commission on Min-
nesota Resources, Dakota
County, and the Minnesota De-
partment of Natural Resources
to bolster the wetlands in the
area. Eighty percent of all the
water in Minnesota is in a wet-
land. Those attending the
demonstration were able to view
water moving through natural
rainwater gardens that act as fil-
ters for storm water, water qual-
ity sampling, and the thousands
of new plantings along the wet-
lands buffer. There are 10 cities
in Dakota County using a volun-
teer wetland monitoring pro-
gram. For more information
about the program, callTom Gar-
rison at 651-675-5008,
Apple Valley/Rosemount, Eagan Sun.Current/Thursday. July 3. 2003
Lakeville resident Tom Goodwin takes a swipe at the water while test-
ing the wetland for new critters. Goodwin is a volunteer for the Wet-
land Health and Environmental Project. which is working to restore
wetlands throughout the area. A diverse supply of new creatures in
the Cedar Pond Park project in Eagan would demonstrate proper
growth. and a successful wetlands area.
A giant waterbug and an ever growing number of diverse creatures
means the Cedar Pond Park project in Eagan is well on its way to be-
coming a success in the quest for wetlands restoration.
SA App$s Valley/Rosemount, Eagan Surr Curren1Rhursday. July 3, 2003
www.mnSun.corn
After one-year reprieve,
Program saved? Check
BY LONNY GOLDSMITH
Sun Newspapers
With the help of a foundation
with the sole purpose of finan-
cially backing chess programs
and players, School District 191
was able to keep its ground-
breaking chess program alive
for this school year.
The question now: Can they
do it again next year?
The Eagan -based HB Foun-
dation led a fundraising drive
last year that was able to fund
the school district's artist -in -
residence chess program,
which features Russian -born
Chess Master Ed Zelkind work-
ing with every fourth -grader in
the district.
After learning the district
was going to cut the artist -in -
residence program. Brian Rib -
nick, a math teacher at Metcalf
Junior High and the district's
chess coordinator, went to the
Foundation for help.
The HB Foundation, created
by Al Blowers with the goal of
combining chess and educa-
tion, was able to help.
"Blowers learned the game
as an adult, and what he found
was that it helped him to learn
business skills," said Brian
Molohon, executive director of
the Foundation.
Molohonled a fundraising
drive from program alumni and
school PTO's that earned more
than $1,000, and the HB Founda-
tion picked up the remaining
amounts of the $8.500 tab the
chess program faces more questions
Metcalf Junior High ninth -graders Matt Tinebra and Matt Higgins take on opponents at the national tour-
nament in Orlando.
District 191 program costs.
"The beauty of chess is that
it's not expensive," said Molo-
hon. "But when the levy failed
[in November 20011, it becomes
a lot of money."
District 191 is considered the
only "chess literate" district in
the state, said Molohon and Rib -
nick.
"We have a program here
that is unique to the state,
where every fourth -grader is
taught to play by Zelkind," Rib -
nick said. "Everyone not only
knows the game, but has a re-
spect for the game. This has
been going on for 15-plus years
of us doing this-"
Molohon said that South St.
Paul and Inver Grove Heights
school district officials have
talked with him about setting
up a similar program to that of
District 191.
Zelkind spends one week at
each of the district's 10 elemen-
tary schools. working with each
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fourth grade class and teaching
them chess.
"It's a game and kids love
games," Ribnick said. "They
don't realize how much good it's
doing them.
"It's doing tremendous posi-
tive things for their growing
minds in a fun atmosphere. And
it provides a break in the rou-
tine. Call it a mental recess."
Research that spans more
than 30 years shows that chil-
dren who play chess with some
regularity will do better in
math and English, they will
have better developed critical
thinking and logic skills, and
typically also do better on stan-
dardized tests.
Learning chess at a young
age has translated to statewide
success for District 191 stu-
dents.
Burnsville High School won
the Minnesota High School
Chess League title and Metcalf
Junior High won the Minnesota
Junior High/Middle School
League state title.
"We have an after -school pro-
gram set up at every school,"
Ribnick said. "We want the chil-
dren to see chess as a fun game
and get enjoyment out of it that
will keep them in the game. We
try to find coaches that will let
kids have fun with game and
improve on it."
Ribnick said while the ele-
mentary school teams didn't do
as well as the junior high and
high school teams, it's used as a
building block toward success-
es that the older levels have
shown.
"Many students have played
chess for five or six years by the
time they get to the junior high
level," Ribnick said. "We don't
have to teach from scratch and
they can start at a much higher
place."
Ribnick went to the HB
Foundation for help once he dis-
covered that the chess program,
which is administered by the
community education depart-
ment, was on the chopping
block.
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it DOES YOUR
Silver Bell Liquor's license is revoked
'Flagrant' violations are cited by council
by ErinJohnson
TNMSWFFX NEWSPAPERS
It was widely known by local
teens as the place for minors to
buy alcohol, but the well at Silver
Bell Liquor in Eagan has official-
ly dried up.
The Eagan City Council
revoked the store's liquor license
at its July 1 meeting, citing
repeated violations of selling
alcohol to minors.
The revocation took immedi-
ate effect. It is the first time the
city has revoked an establish-
ment's liquor license.
Eagan Mayor Pat Geagan, the
former police chief of Eagan,
said the violations were the most
flagrant he's seen in his 30 years
of law enforcement.
"There's no excuse for it," he
said.
The city recorded 12 incidents
of Silver Bell Liquor selling alco-
hol to minors within 36 months.
Many incidents involved the
same clerk, who is also part
owner of the store, according to
the city.
Rebecca Adams, attorney for
Silver Bell Liquor owner Balbir
Shoker. said her client intends to
sell the business and has already
accepted an offer to be finalized
some time in August.
"My client understands the
council's concern. my client
See Revoked, 5A
Revoked/from 1A
understands the city's concern,"
she said, "To that end, he at this
point feels that the best thing for
him to do would be to sell the
property and sell the business:'
Adams requested that the
imposition of any license suspen-
sion or revocation be stayed pend-
ing the sale of the business.
Revoking or suspending the
liquor license could devalue the
business and possibly prohibit the
owner from being able to sell the
store, she said.
Geagan pointed out that liquor
licenses are not tied to the sale of
a business, rather each owner
must apply for a license on their
own.
"A license is issued to the
operator, and those licenses are
not transferrable," said City
Attorney Mike Dougherty.
"So if we revoke it. it's not
going to take anything away from
the purchase." said Council
Member Peggy Carlson.
Council Member Mike
Maguire said he was not swayed
by Adams' argument to postpone
the revocation, even if it means
the devaluation of her client's
business.
"I don't understand what the
logic would be of us being con-
cerned with what the business
owner could get for his business,"
he said
If the value of the business
goes down because the license is
revoked, that is a consequence of
how the owner operated his busi-
ness. he said.
"When you decide to apply for
a permit. you agree to be a
responsible retailer:. he said.
The council was unanimous in
its decision.
According to a memo from
Eagan City Clerk Maria Kaaels to
City Administrator Tom Hedges,
many of the underage individuals
questioned that night said that it is
widely known throughout area
high schools that Silver Bell
Liquor sells alcohol to minors.
In one case, the memo stated, a
20-year-old said he had been buy-
ing alcohol at the store since he
was 16.
But because notice of the 10
violations were given to the
owner at the end of the evening's
surveillance instead of after each
violation, the store was only given
one violation for all 10 incidents.
However. the April violation
was the store's second in a 24-
month period. 11vo more viola-
tions occurred after that, totaling
four violations in 36 months.
In addition to the license revo-
cation. the store was fined $4,000
"We need to send a clear mes-
sage to the liquor stores and the
entertainnx:nt establishment that
this is not acceptable." said
Council Member Cyndee Fields.
"This disgusts me, to be quite
honest ... selling to underage kids
is disgusting."
Council Member Meg Tilley
said, "1 agree with Council
Member Fields — it's very inap-
propriate. It's wrong, and I say we
revoke."
The Eagan Police Department
received multiple reports of Silver
Bell Liquor selling alcohol to
underage persons during
February and April of 2003.
During a city-
wide alcohol compliance check in
April. Silver Bell Liquor was one
of four establishments that failed.
Police continued surveillance
on the store and reported 10 vio-
lations in one hour on May 9.
EG THISWEEK Juty 5, 2003 SA
in civil penalties for the viola-
tions.
Eagan Police Chief Kent
Therkelsen said that word of the
revocation will travel fast.
"We understand when we do
compliance checks that nuc asion-
ally there's going to be a mistake
and people sell to minors," he
said. "But this was looking an
awful lot like a pattern of business
practice."
Adams said her clients intend
to appeal the council's decision.
"We believe there were some
procedural irregularities with the
hearing and that's what we'll be
basing our appeal on," she said.
Silver Bell Liquor is located at
1983 Silver Bell Road.
Erin Johnson is at
eagan.thisweek@ecm-inc.com.
Bar closing
time still up
in the air
Local businesses
hate cliffererrt
reactions to 2 a.m.
closing time
by Erin Johnson
•TNLSV I i ►; \kx %1'1P1 R1
Doolittle's Air Cafe is all for
it, but Cherokee Sirloin Room
doesn't really care for the idea of
extending Eagan's bar closing
time to 2 a.m.
That's according to a recent
survey conducted by the Eagan
Convention and Visitors Bureau
(ECVBI. which asked local
establishments to weigh in on the
issue.
About 59 businesses were
sent surveys. but only seven
responded. Of those. all but one
were in favor of extending bar
closing an extra hour.
City staff will meet local
establishments' owners this week
to hanuner out a decision, said
Eagan Mayor 13at Geagan.
"I've been approached by
several people in the hospitality
industnw who have some con-
cerns over that issue:' he said.
Some owners feel that the
business isn't there to support the
extra hour and extra expenses, he
said.
"It's my sense that there's a
number of them that really don't
care to stay open. but they feel
like they might be forced into it,"
he said_
There are also concerns about
See Closing, 5A
Th-$$
MONTH JULY 5. 2003
VOLUME 24. NO. 18
www.thisweek-online.com
New countydevelopment
i
director is
named in Eagan
Jon Hohenstein is former assistant city administrator
by Frin.Jr.hnsorr
The city of Eagan has named
Jon Hohenstein as its new com-
munity development director.
Hohenstein is a familiar face
in Eagan; he served as assistant
city administrator from 1985 to
1998. Since then, he has been
the city administrator for
Mahtomedi.
Now. as community devel-
opment director, he will oversee
Eagan's economic develop-
ment. zoning and redevelop-
ment strategies. He will also
direct the city's code enforce-
ment, inspections and planning
efforts.
Hohenstein was chosen
unanimously by the Eagan City
Council out of more than 40
candidates.
"Community building in a
city 1 know well and with a staff
1 respect is the most interesting
challenge," he said,
Hohenstein has been an
Eagan resident since 1987. He
:aic1 h i. looking forward to
Jon Hohenstein is Eagan's new
director.
getting reacquainted with com-
munity leaders and working
community development
with the council. commissions
and staff to forge development
priorities for Eagan.
"Eagan is my home. and 1
care deeply about it," he said.
Hohenstein has a master's
degree in urban and regional
studies from Mankato State
University and a bachelor of
arts from Harvard.
In his previous 13 years with
the city of Eagan, Hohenstein
was at the front end of projects
such as the redevelopment of
the Cedar Grove area and the
area around Highway 149 and
Highway 55. said City
Administrator Tom Hedges,
"He knows all of those pro i
ccts really well," he said.
Now that Eagan is about 90
percent developed, redevelop
ment will be particularly impoi
tant, according to the city.
"We got the right person at
the right time to take Eagan to
new heights." said Eagan
Mayor Pat Geagan.
Hohenstein said he is look-
ing forward to, being part of
Eagan's city administration
See Director, 5A
2A July 5, 2003 THISWEK
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Director/from ]A
�l5'%d,,
again.
"It is an exciting time for me v
both personally and professional-
ly. and 1 look forward to the
opportunity to come hack to
Eagan and help the council and
the community shape its future;'
he said.
Hedges originally hired
Hohenstein as an intern in the
mid-1980s. and he was eventually
promoted to assistant city admin-
istrator. The city has not had a
community development director
position for several years, Hedges
said, because more responsibility
was given to the assistant city
administrator. But after Assistant
Administrator Jamie Verbnigge's
departure in March. the city feh it
was necessary to hang the pusi-
tiback.
dvi'lgow we're really seeing we
need the community develop-
ment director position so we can
have someone focus 100 percent
of their attention to redevelop-
ment and economic issues;' he
said.
Hedges said he's very much
looking forward to working with
Hohenstein again.
"He was an excellent employ-
ee then and he will he upon his
return." he said. "He has a great
work ethic. 1 think it will be real-
ly good for the community.
Hohenstein starts his new
position Aug. 11.
Erin Johnson is at
e agan.thtsweekOer m-lice.con.
IMP
1
Eye on the ball
A young I aganite practices her swing at Evening Instructional T-Ball sponsored b.v Eagan
Parks and Recreation on Wednesday.
EAGAN
City
official
cited for
assault
Seven-year dispute
becomes public
BY MARA H. GOTTFRIED
Pioneer Press
It began with dirt and punch-
es flying when an Eagan plan-
ning commission member went
to speak to a man operating
heavy machinery at a business
near his house.
It ended with Ron A. Miller,
the commission member, receiv-
ing a citation for assault and a
notice for trespassing.
But it was only the latest
wrinkle in a seven-year dispute
over noise and diesel fumes that
Miller has had with the busi-
ness, Johnson's Richfield Black-
top on Minnesota 13 in Eagan.
Police reports document a histo-
ry of bad blood between Miller
and the business, though the
most recent was the only one
that mentioned violence.
Now the issue threatens to
move from a private dispute
between neighbors to one in the
public domain. That's because
when Miller was cited at the end
of June — his attorney said he
was acting in self-defense — he
told police he went to Richfield
Blacktop on official business as
a city planning commissioner,
according to a police report.
Eagan officials said he wasn't
there on city business, and now
Miller's attorney says the same.
Penny Johnson, owner of
Richfield Blacktop, maintained
In a letter to the city, though,
that Miller "has made his per-
sonal agenda know(n) for years
that his intent is to put us out of
business no matter what the
cost. He is now using his posi-
tion with the city of Eagan to
further his goal."
Mike Colich, Miller's attor-
ney, said he couldn't comment
on Johnson's remark or other
aspects of the case, and Miller
declined to comment.
The Eagan City Council
appointed Miller, who ran
-04c)Cfee, Vre5s '7I1003
City official cited
(continued)
unsuccessfully for a council seat
in 2002, to the planning commis-
sion this year.
There's no evidence that
Miller applied to the commission
with an agenda, said city admin-
istrator Tom Hedges. He was
appointed because of his experi-
ence — he was an alternate on
the planning commission in
1999, according to the mayor.
During the times Miller has
served on the commission. no
issues related to Richfield
Blacktop have arisen, a city
spokesman said.
On Tuesday night, the City
Council unanimously approved
a measure to begin looking into
the Miller matter. They appoint-
ed the city clerk to serve as a
hearing officer, in a process that
could lead to an administrative
hearing with the findings ulti-
mately presented to the council,
which can remove commission
members for cause.
Council members were oth-
erwise silent about Miller dur-
ing the meeting. In an earlier
interview, Mayor Pat Geagan
said it wouldn't be appropriate
for him to comment because
Miller has a right to due
process.
David Schultz, a Hamline
University professor of ethics
in government, said Miller's
actions may violate two ethical
tenet;: abuse of a public posi-
tion and conflict of interest.
• "It's impermissible to use
your official position to further
•your personal gain," he said.
"Abuse of a public position is
one of the classic no-no's."
In the latest incident, on the
afternoon of June 28, Miller told
police that a skid -steer loader
at Richfield Blacktop, down a
hill from his house, had filled
his house with diesel smoke.
According to the report:
Miller said he went to speak
with the owner. He picked up
dirt from the loader's bucket
and threw it on the employee,
Charles Gellatly. The two men's
stories then differ. Miller said
Gellatly swung at him and he
didn't strike back; Gellatly said
Miller punched him and he took
a swing back.
Gellatly, who wasn't cited,
said he had never met Miller
before. tie told police "the last
thing he wants to do is get into
some kind of altercation"
because he has a pacemaker and
a defibrillator in his chest, the
report said In an interview with
the Pioneer Press, he said Miller
emphasized his public position_
"He kept saying, 'Do you
know who I am? Do you know
who I am?"' Gellatly said.
Miller was cited for fifth -
degree assault, a misdemeanor,
and given a notice for trespass-
ing. The business has a tempo-
rary restraining order against
Miller and is scheduled to go to
court next week to make it per-
manent
Miller's complaints about
Richfield Blacktop begin to
show up in Eagan records in
1996. The business moved to its
site -- where there was once a
gas station -- in 1994. Miller
built his home in 1974, according
to city records.
Three police reports that
involve Miler and Richfield
Blacktop — including claims of
harassment filed by the busi-
ness — are on file from 1996. In
August of that year, the compa-
ny's employees obtained a two-
year restraining order against
Miller.
Later that month, Miller
called police again to complain
about loud equipment
"I do not expect that this
matter will be easily resolved,"
an officer wrote in an earlier
police report. "I would submit
that the only resolution that
would be acceptable to Miller is
that the Johnson's Richfield
Blacktop company would dis-
continue business."
For the most part, the busi-
ness has operated without
being sanctioned by the city. In
1997, though, it was cited when
an employee operated heavy
machinery on a Sunday, in 'vio-
lation of its permit The busi-
ness wasn't fined. Johnson said.
Neighbors said they have
had few problems with Richfield
Blacktop. Pauline Michaelis said
the business was sometimes
noisy in the past and she could
smell diesel, but it hasn't been
as bad in the past year.
Gayle Drewry, who lives next
to Richfield Blacktop, said
company officials react quickly
if neighbors express a concern.
Mara H. Gottfried corers
Eagan, the Metropolitan Council
and suburban growth. She
can be reached at mgottfried@
pioneerpress.com or
651-228-5262.
Joanna Foote
From: Carole Roden [carole.roden@rehabilicare.com]
Sent: Thursday, July 17, 2003 9:34 AM
To: Sandy Pavlik; Sandy and Jac Botes; Loretta Roden; Ken Krych; Joe Roden (Work); Joanna
Foote; Jeanne and Brent Helin (Home); Cindy Francis; Chuck and Candi Krych
Subject: Fw: prayer
> >The best prayer I have heard in a long time!!!!
> > c >> 1
> • >Heavenly Father, Help'us remember chat the jerk
> >who cut us off in traffic last night is a single mother
> >who worked nine hours that day and is rushing home to
> >cook dinner, help with homework, do the laundry and
> >spend a few precious moments with her children.
> >
> >Help us to remember that the pierced, tattooed, disinterested young
> >man who can't make change correctly is a worried 19-year-old college
> >student, balancing his apprehension over final exams with his
> >fear of not getting his student loans for next semester.
> >
> >Remind us, Lord, that the scary looking bum, begging
> >for money in the same spot every day (who really ought
> >to get a job!) is a slave to addictions that we can only imagine in
> >our worst nightmares.
> • >Help us to remember that the old couple walking
> >annoyingly slow through the store aisles and blocking
> >our shopping progress are savoring this moment,
> >knowing that, based on the biopsy report she got back
> >last week, this will be the last year that they go shopping together.
> >
> >Heavenly Father, remind us each day that, of all the
> >gifts you give us, the greatest gift is love. It is not enough to
> >share that love with those we hold dear. Open our hearts not to just
> >those who are close to us, but to all humanity. Let us be slow to
> >judge and quick to forgive, show patience, empathy and love.
> >
> >If you send this to 5 people then you have a chance to
> >touch 5 people. You won't get any wish for
> >material things, however you might just find a piece of serenity and
> >the warmth of God's touch.
1
LOCAL NEWS
ri(
WWW.TWINCITIES.COM ■ ST. PAUL PIONEER PRESS
SOUTH SUBURBS
EAGAN
Residents help lead orphan fawns to safety
Pair let go in Fort Snelling State Park
BY MARA H. GOTTFRIED
Pioneer Press
The fawn~ of Eagan needed
saving.
Though deer are a common
sight in the suburbs now, there
was something about these two
that prompted neighbors to
help them.
At little more than a month
old the baby deer were in trou-
ble. With no guidance from a
doe — a car killed their mother
a couple weeks ago — the fawns
had lately been wandering
across Wescott Road in Eagan,
heedless of traffic.
So neighbors made szue
authorities knew about the
fawns' plight and some helped
shepherd them to safety.
It's not surprising that the
fawns would have stayed in the
area where their mother was
killed, said Bryan Lueth, Min-
nesota Department of Natural
Resources urban wildlife spe-
cialist
"They usually follow their
mom, literally, for a year," he
said.
Law enforcement went look-
ing for the fawns late last week_
They saw them firs1 in a wood-
ed area, near a residential
neighborhood in the area of
Wescott and Elrene roads. But.
"with every snap of a twig they
went further in," said Kathleen
Gilbertson, Eagan's animal con-
trol officer.
Later, the fawns were spot-
ted in the front yard of a nearby
house, eating flowers and
plants. Officers and some neigh-
bors, about six people in all,
formed a chain with their arms
so the fawns wouldn't run away.
Then, they herded them into
a garage on the property. The
speckled fawns, one weighing
about 30 pounds and the other
40 pounds. were put in two plas-
tic dog crates. They would have
none of it, though. so the sib-
lings were ultimately transport-
ed together in one crate.
1t was a risky rescue,
Gilbertson said.
"The dangerous part about it
is when you relocate them, they
will fight against it and they
sometimes break their legs,"
she said. "It was risky, but we
had to get them off the mad_"
Although officers were confi-
dent the Eagan fawns were
orphaned. Lueth cautioned peo-
ple against assuming that fawns
on their own had been aban-
doned -- something the DNR
gets a lot of calls about. Does
leave their fawns for hours at a
time to get food until the fawns
are old enough to come along,
he said.
The Eagan fawns were let go
in Fort Snelling State Park, said
Ross Opsahl, a Dakota County
conservation officer for the
DNR In his almost 20 years on
the job, Opsahl said he doesn't
remember ever having to relo-
cate fawns.
And now, away from the traf-
fic of Eagan, Opsahl said, the
orphan fawns should be safer.
"It's a relief because it was so
sad, they stayed in the vicinity
where their mother died like
they were still looking for her
every day," Gilbertson said.
Mara 1I. Gottfried corers Eagan,
the Metropolitan Council and
suburban growth. She can be
reached at mgottfried®
pioneerpress.com or
651-228-5262.
www.mnSun.com
Apple Valley/Rosemount, Eagan Sun•Currentifhursday. July 17 2003
5A
Eagan City Council revokes Silver Bell's liquor license
Decision by City Council represents
first liquor license revocation in
Eagan
BY JosawA NICHOLS
Sun Newspapers
The Eagan City Council took an un-
precedented step earlier this month
when it revoked the liquor license of Sil-
ver Bell Liquor after repeated citations
for underage sales.
Citing a pattern of what it called fla-
grant violations including repeated in-
stances of selling alcohol to minors, the
council unanimously voted July 1 to re-
voke the license.
"We need to send a clear message that
this is not acceptable behavior," Coun-
cilmember Cyndee Fields said.
Silver Bell Liquor is on Silver Bell
Road off Highway 13 in the Cedar Grove
area.
Although the city had never before re-
voked a business' liquor license, Silver
Bell Liquor had been cited 12 times for al-
cohol sales to minors over a recent seven -
week period.
The citations are far more than any
other establishment in the city has re-
ceived during the past several years.
In one case, a 24-year-old man report-
ed buying alcohol at Silver Bell since he
was 16. A hearing officer had previously
imposed $9,000 in fines on the business
owned by Balbir Shoker, Makhan Shoker
and Jaswinder Mundi.
Rebecca Adams, an attorney repre-
senting Silver Bell Liquor, asked the
council for leniency because the owners
of the store are planning to sell the store
and it would affect the business' value in
the deal.
"My client understands the city's con-
cern," Adams said.
"He feels at this point that the best
thing for him to do would be to sell the
property"
Noting that liquor licenses do not
transfer and that a new owner would
need to apply for a license anyway, the
City Council was not swayed by Adam's
argument.
"When you decide to apply for a per-
mit, you agree to be a responsible retail-
er," Councilmember Mike Maguire said.
During a citywide alcohol compliance
check in April, Silver Bell Liquor was
one of four establishments that failed.
The store had previously failed a city-
wide compliance check in January 2001.
Silver Bell didn't contest either of the
violations.
Police continued surveillance on the
store and reported 10 violations in one
hour on May 9'
According to a memo from Eagan
City Clerk Maria Karels to City Admin-
istrator Tom Hedges. some of the mi-
nors questioned that night said that it
was commonly known at area high
schools that Silver Bell sold alcohol to
minors.
Because the notice of the 10 violations
were given to the store's owner at the end
of the evening's surveillance instead of
after each separate violation, the store
was only given one violation for all 10 in-
cidents May 9.
In an appeal of the 10 violations, it
was found during a June hearing that 8
of the 10 violations had occurred. That
finding counted as the store's third vio-
lation
On May 23, the establishment suc-
cessfully passed a citywide alcohol corn
pliance check.
However. given the previous experi-
ences of alcohol sales to an underage
person by the establishment, surveil-
lance was once again set up by the police
department.
Later that same day, the establish-
ment was cited because a clerk sold alco-
hol to an underage person.
That fourth violation within 36
months led to a fine of $2,000 and a 30-day
suspension of the store's liquor license.
However, under city code, the fourth vio-
lation sent the issue before the council
for consideration of further sanctions.
Mayor Pat Geagan. Eagan's former
police chief, said that in his 30 years of
law enforcement he had never seen any-
thing approaching the level of Silver
Bell's violations.
"There is no excuse for it," Geagan
said.
Adams said her clients intend to ap-
peal the council's decision.
"We feel there were some serious pro-
cedural irregularities that occurred dur-
ing the hearing," she said. "We'll be bas-
ing our appeal of the decision on that."
(1
Page 6A
OPINION
Thursday, July 17, 2003
These pages are provided as,a fonun to debate ideas of interest and importance in our communities. Signed letters should be no longer than 450 words. Include daytime and evening phone numbers
and address for verification purposes. Submitted letters and columns become the property of Sun Newspapers. which reserves the right to edit and publish them in anyformat. including online.
There's more to Shriners than fun, frolic, fezzes
Hy Tim HRNNACIR
Sun Newspapers
Between 1979 and 1984,
Nashville comedy songwriter
Ray Stevens penned,a hit about
an exasperated Shriners dele-
gate trying to keep a lid on his
overzealous party animal
lodgemate.
• Stevens' little ditty was sim-
ply entitled "Shriners Conven-
tion" and was based upon a real
experience he had in an Atlanta .
hotel that was booked full of
Shriners having a hilariously
good time.
Given the popularity of
Stevens' 1980 comedy classic, it
wouldn't have been surprising
o hear the
weeklong Imperial Session.
Here'sthe real reason why
those who wear the red fez are
such a happy bunch.
Shriners are probably the
world's best philanthropists.
They enjoy helping people.
most notably young children
who cannot walk straight and
tall.
Since their inception 80
years ago, the Shriners' 22 hos-
pitals have helped more than
675,000 children with orthope-
dic and burn conditions.
The Twin Cities is home to
one such hospital, which
opened in 1923, one year after
the opening of the first
Shriners Hospital in Shreve -
the -art Twin Cities facility,
which is in essence a brand-new
hospital that contains the
Shrine system's largest shop for
producing artificial arms and
legs. The facility was completed
in 1990 to replace its timeworn
predecessor.
I'll never forget the wings
and wards of that original hos-
pital. As -a 10-year-old patient, I
took my first "normal" steps
there in mid -January 1974 after
being fitted with an artificial
limb. You see, at birth, doctors
told my parents there was slim
chance such an important
childhood milestone would
occur for me, because I would
likely spend the rest of my life -
sittin in a wheelchair
and watched the Shriners' dedi-
cation help hundreds of other
crippled children and their par-
ents live better lives, free from
the financial burden imposed
by orthopedic problems and the
costly medical assistance they
often require.
However, the Shrine's in-
volvement in my life didn't stop,
once I walked out of the hospi-
tal door..
Throughout the year, the
Shrine's 13ig Brothers program
provided a continued philan-
thropical tie by providing ac-
cess to a number of events, in-
cluding a dugout seat at a Twins
game, the annual Shrine Bowl
and the Christmas Party at the
Zurah Shrine Tem le in Min -
"We believe that care for the.
less fortunate, especially chil-
dren who suffer from burns and
crippling diseases, is our institu-
tional calling. As Shriners, we
look beyohd ourselves to serve
the needs of others..especially
children who cannot help them-
selves. We believe Shriners Hos-
pitals io be the world's greatest
philanthropy and we convenant
with each other to support its
'tel:pies of mercy' with spirit.
time, talent and means."
So, next time you see those
red fezzes marching in a pa-
rade, driving miniature vehi-
cles with Indy 500-like skill or
even walking through a -hotel
lobby at a convention in some
distant city, remember there's a
Eagan fills
position with
familiar face
Former Eagan assistant city
administrator named
community development
director
BY JosiiUA NICHOLS
Sun Newspas
When looking for someone to
help guide the city's development
and redevelopment efforts, the
Eagan City Council found a famil-
iar name to fill the position.
The Eagan City
Council selected
Jon Hohenstein as
the city's new
community devel-
opment director
during its July 1
meeting.
Although Ho-
henstein, 45, cur-
rently is city ad- Hohenstein
ministrator for
Mahtomedi, he was an Eagan as-
sistant city administrator from
1985 to 1998.
"I very much enjoy all the as-
pects of community building,
physical development and rede-
velopment," Hohenstein said.
"It's a great opportunity to come
back to Eagan, a community 1
know, and work to continue build-
ing the community"
Hohenstein takes over the new
position Aug. 11.
As part of the duties attached
to his new position, Hohenstein
will oversee Eagan's economic de-
velopment, zoning and redevelop-
ment strategies. He will also di-
rect the city's code enforcement,
inspections and planning efforts.
Hohenstein was the council's
unanimous choice from among
more than 40 candidates who ap-
plied for the position.
"We got the right person at the
right time to take Eagan to new
heights." said Eagan Mayor Pat
Geagan.
HOHENSTEIN: To Page 18A
www.mnSun.com
Hohenstein
From Page 1 A
Eagan has not had a community de-
velopment director position for several
years, instead giving more responsibili-
ty to the assistant city administrator,
City Administrator Tom Hedges said.
However, after Assistant Administra-
tor Janie Verbrugge's departure in
March, the city felt it was time to hire
someone for the position.
"Now we're really seeing we need the
community development director posi-
tion so we can have someone focus all of
their attention to redevelopment and
economic issues," Hedges said.
Hohenstein has been an Eagan resi-
dent since 1987.
"Eagan is my home. and I care deeply
about it," Hohenstein said. "1 have a vest-
ed interest in seeing it continue to devel-
op and do well."
Even before his post as assistant city
administrator, Hohenstein was becom-
ing familiar with the city as an intern
under Hedges.
Hohenstein said he is looking forward
to getting reacquainted with community
leaders and working with the City Coun-
cil. commissions and staff to forge de-
velopment priorities for Eagan.
In filling the position, the City of
Eagan advertised for someone with spe-
cific knowledge of redevelopment is-
sues, an advanced degree and leadership
experience in a community of 50.000 peo-
ple or larger.
Hohenstein has a master's degree in
urban and regional studies from Manka-
to State University and a bachelor's of
arts degree from Harvard.
Over the course of his 13 years with
Eagan, his experience included begin-
ning the development of the Cedar Grove
and Highway 55 tax -increment financing
districts.
With Eagan approximately 90 percent
developed, redevelopment of older sec-
tions of Eagan has become particularly
important, Hedges said.
Hohensteinsaid while he has some
ideas as what he would like to do as com-
munity development director, he knows
redevelopment will be a group effort be-
tween the city and the community
"I know the City Council has some
goals for the community and I want to
work with staff and the community to
set the goals and policies that will help
the city shape itself over the next 25
years," he said.
Because of the relationships he built
and the projects he has worked on over
the part five years, Hohenstein said leav-
ing Mahtomedi won't be easy.
"I made the decision with mixed emo-
tions," he said- "I am very much looking
forward to working for Eagan, but we
have done some good things here and it's
hard to leave."
Hohenstein said he is Iookingforward
to being part of Eagan's city administra-
tion again.
"It is an exciting time for me, both per-
sonally and professionally. and 1 look for-
ward to the opportunity to come back to
Eagan and help the council and the com-
munity shape its future," he said.
,.t.gni
01(\e_e,9_ �reSS ��I�I�D3
EAGAN
Motorcycles cruise onto the police force
Few suburban departments use bikes, which
often have limited manpower,
particularly now with tight city
are leased from Harley Davidson for $1 a year budgets. so it's difficult to
assign one or two officers to
BY MARA H. GOTTFRIED Stephens swooped In to pull an handling traffic enforcement
Pioneer Press offender over and write her a alone, said St. Paul police offi-
citation, he was not in a squad cer Curt Sandell. who supervis-
The traffic last week, as car but on a motorcycle. es the department's motorcycle
usual. was bumper to bumper Police motorcycles are a officers and helped the pro -
around Eagan's places for a new sight in Eagan, and not an grant
quick lunch in the noon hour. altogether common one around "If they don't have enough
And, also as usual, there the metropolitan area Though officers, it's a problem because
were some people making ille- St. Paul police also use motor- motorcycles are a lousy squad
gal left-hand turns after the cycles for traffic enforcement, car for normal law enforcement
light had turned red. only about 10 other metro area calls," he said, pointing to the
But what happened next departments do. fact that prisoners and emer-
wasn't usual When officer Bob Suburban departments gency equipment can't be
1-
transported on motorcycles.
In Eagan, the introduction of
two motorcycles to the roads
means a "more focused
response" to traffic concerns —
spceding, failing to stop at red
lights, unsafe passing, aggres-
sive driving, for instance in
the city, Chief Kent Therkelsen
said. In a survey of Eagan resi-
dents last summer, traffic
ranked as the fourth biggest
concern in the city, although it
only accounted for 7 percent of
all concerns cited.
POLICE MOTORCYCLES, 3B
JOE ROSSI, PIONEER PRESS
Eagan Police motorcycle patrol offic.r Bob Stephens returns to
his position on Yankee Doodle Road after issuing a traffic ticket.
Eagan has two motorcycles, which the department leases from Harley
Davidson for S1 a year.
U.S. Bank Internet Banking
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Police motorcycles
(continued)
So, Eagan officer Mike
Schrader, who is also assigned
to a motorcycle, and Stephens
will be dedicated to traffic
enforcement. On Wednesday,
they were watching for people
who made left-hand turns after
the arrow had turned red at
the intersection of Yankee
Doodle Road and Denmark
Avenue.
Though they issued two
citations in an hour, it was
nothing compared with Tues-
day, when they stopped 13 peo-
ple and gave out 10 citations
between 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.
They'll also be focusing on
other problem areas for traffic
in the city and hope to get tips
from residents on where
they're seeing trouble spots.
Other suburbs — including
Inver Grove Heights, Forest
Lake and Bloomington — have
established motorcycle units
and more have expressed
interest, Sandell said.
Motorcycles offer several
advantages for law enforce-
ment. They can go places
• where squad cars ean't, for
example, and they make it eas-
ier for the public to interact
with officers, just as patrols on
horse and bicycles do.
"It's tough to walk up to an
officer in a squad car, knock on
the window and start a conver-
sation," Schrader said.
But a disadvantage, apart
from the limitations of
responding to emergency calls,
is the relatively short period in
Minnesota that they can be
used — usually late spring to
early or mid -fall.
Motorcycles also have the
potential to make officers' jobs
more dangerous, although
Sandell points out that "a lot of
aspects of police work are very
dangerous." Intense training is
often seen as a way to mitigate
that risk; the two Eagan offi-
cers went through 80 hours of
training.
The department is leasing
the motorcycles through a
Harley-Davidson program
that offers the bikes for $1 a
year for law enforcement
agencies.
Still, there are costs to out-
fit the motorcycles with lights
and sirens, proygde special uni-
forms for the officers and for
training.
But in Eagan's case, every-
thing was covered by a $20,000
grant the Eagan Citizen's
Crime Prevention Association
gave the department to estab-
lish the traffic enforcement
unit.
Most people in Eagan aren't
used to seeing the motorcycles
yet, and some have done dou-
ble takes when they've noticed
the officers on their bikes,
Stephens said.
"Not too many people
expect to see a cop on a bike in
the suburbs," he said. "Right
now we're a novelty, but soon
we'll become part of the land-
scape."
FYI
To report traffic concerns
in Eagan, call the new
police traffic unit hot line
at 651-675-5826.
Suggestions for places for
officers to patrol can also
be sent to epdtrafficunitC
cityofeagan.com, which
police expect to be
operating in the next
month.
Mara H. Gottfried covers Eagan,
the Metropolitan Council and
suburban growth. She can be
reached at mgoflfried@pioneer
press.com or 631-228-5262.
1 Officer
Bab
Stephens
monitored
traffic
Wednesday
on Yankee
Doodle
Road.
JOE PIONEER PRESS
EAGAN
City Council extends
bar hours to 2 am.
Eagan bars will soon be
allowed to remain open until 2
a.m., following the Eagan City
Council's unanimous approval
Tuesday night of an amend-
ment to the city's ordinance.
State law had mandated that
bars close at 1 am. until the last
legislative session. when a
2 am. bar closing time passed.
Of Eagan establishments
that responded to surveys, 16
were in favor of having the
option to remain open until
2 a.m. and one was opposed.
The council also directed
city staff to research increas-
ing license fees to potentially
help cover additional policing
costs.
Mara H. Gottfried
1
Eagan's first film festival a success
City plans to make it an annual event
by Erin Johnson
MIN V. %PAPERS
The first Eagan Film
Festival, held in conjunction
with the Eagan Arts Festivals
was a surprising success for a
first-time event, said Colleen
Callahan, youth development
coordinator for the city of
Eagan.
"For a first time I think it
went very well." she said. "The
community response was awe-
some. It was very supportive."
The contest featured a total
of 15 films submitted by area
residents. Films were divided
into several categories for youth
and adults and judged by a
panel of experts. Categories
included films that are five min-
utes or less,. six to 15 minutes
and 16 to 30 minutes in length.
The festival was the brain-
child of Eagan teen Miles
Garvey, an independent film-
maker who is an ad hoc mem-
ber of the Eagan Teen Advisory
Board (ETAS).
Garvey. 15. has been making
films for nearly two years and
his fifth picture, called "It
Grows Inside;' won first place
in the adult long film category
(his co -producer was an adult).
The film is about a man who
loves math but can't seem to
solve a particular problem with-
out living out a hallucination.
Bruce Neff, a tech ed teacher
at Eagan High School who
helped judge the films, said he
was pleased with the results of
the city's first film festival.
"I thought it was just fantas-
tic." he said. "I was really
impressed with how it came
See Film, 7A
This Vlak 7tiado3
I his UM< filia163
cagAh
www.thisweek-online. com
Traffic unit's goal is safer Lagan streets
Officers will ride new Harley Davidson motorcycles
by Erirs Jobtesore
FHIS' TEx NF SPAPFRS
The Eagan Police Department
has fomled a new traffic unit to
help monitor some of the city's
most accident-prone areas.
The unit's mission statement
is, "To promote traffic safety
through education and enforce-
ment."
The unit's advantage? New
Harley Davidson motorcycles.
The motorcycles. leased for
$1 a year through St. Croix
Harley Davidson. will allow the
officers to position themselves at
tricky intersections that would he
prohibitive for a squad car.
"It is much more flexible than
a squad car. We can go where a
squad car can't go and we can sit
where they can't sit." said Eagan
Police Officer Mike Schrader.
"They're high profile in one
sense. When people see you. they
stop and look. But they're still
low enough profile that if we
Officers Mike Schrader, left, and Bob Stevens patrol dangerous
Harley Davidson motorcycles.
want to sit someplace they appar-
ently don't see you. So it's quite a
tool:
Schrader and Officer Bob
Stevens make up the new traffic
unit. They will be watching for
red-light runners, aggressive driv-
ers and road ragers. among other
traffic offenders.
Running red lights is one of
the biggest traffic problems in
Eagan, they said.
'One of the most dangerous
intersections for crashes in
intersections on their clew
Dakota County, the number one.
is Yankee Doodle and Pilot
Knob:' Stevens said "And that's
a traffic -controlled intersection.
That means people ate running
the red lights and getting in acci-
See Traffic, 6A
6A July 12. 2003 THISWEEK EG
Trafflc/from IA
dents. With the motorcycles.
we can sit and monitor traffic
and be able to enforce that red
light. where a squad car can't
sit to monitor the Tight"
Both officers had previous
motorcycle experience. but
they trained for two weeks at
Northwestern Traffic Institute
to learn how to ride the
Harleys.
The city got the bikes
1
through a national law enforce-
ment lease program offered by
the Harley Davidson Company.
"It's going to cost the city
$1 every year to get a new
motorcycle and we will get a
new motorcycle every year,"
What it will cost you
1
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Stevens said. ' "flat is an issue — every- j1
.A The department paid for the body's in a hurry," Schrader
lights and sirens. which will be said. "Ile 10 seconds that you '(',
reused with each new motorcy- think you're saving by blowing
ae. • - through a stop sign is nothing
6, "So the initial cost is done: compared to killing some-
Stev'There's
ens said:here's sbo more body. t
cost to the motorcycles" • While the new Barleys have afi
The cost of the training. a definite cool factor, the offi-
equipment and uniforms came cers said they do miss the coin- 1
from the Eagan Citizens Crime puters ihat were in their squad
Prevention Association. a vol- can.The laptops allowed them k
unteer citizen group formed in to drive up behind a ear and ep
1985. The association gave the type in the plate number for
department a gent for up to instant information. Now they
S20.000 for start-up costs for have to call in each plate to dis-
the program. patch. so they use more discre-
t -They donated all the up- don about which plates they
( front money. so there's no out- choose to run.
of -pocket from the city budg- "When I was in my squad. 1
• et." Schrader said, would mn'(t a plate of) every
i • In the past.traffo enforce- car in front of me. But now
i ment was. handled by patrol you've really got to be picking
{ can, but they would have to and choosing because you use
respond to calls and couldn't up so much air time;' Stevens
sit in one area for any length of said.
time. . "We've stepped back about
"They •can't sit on your five years as far as technology."
sweet to stop the speeders or Schrader said.
people miming the stop signs." But Duke no mistake, the
"
Stevens.said.. We don't. take officers will he on the lookout
tcalls anymore. We're dedicated for' offenders. even without
strictly to traffic enforcement" . their laptops, they said. And
J Areas that the unit targets people who don't wear seat
/are dictated by complaints belts are high on their list.
called into the department or . "We do enforce seat belts
by the amount of accidents that around here,". Schrader .said.
Occur igen area • "Another primary cense" for.
"We'll pick several target personal injury accidents is not
spots every day and work them using sat belts and not having
for a good amount of. time," kids in child safety seats. There
Schrader said._ • - is no gray area for not wearing
• Speeding and driver inamen- seat belts." •'
tion are some of the other prob- "In some cases. if you're
lens commonly i en in Eagan. making 55 or 56 an hour, you
"I stopped a lady doing 49 just gave us a days pay
in a 30 mph zone eating a bowl because you didn't hook your
of cereal. When I stopped her, seat belt," Stevens said.
she had the bowl ofeereal right Schrader said the officers
between her legs, with a spoon would rather -not write tickets
and everything." Stevens said.. because they can be a financial
"She was eating cereal on her hardship.
way to work. At 19 miles over." ' "However. were going to
-It's not uncommon to have enforce the law," he said.
people on a allphone. reading • •.. Ultimately,. Stevens said,
a newspaper and driving at the they just want people to be
same time." Schrader said. "It's more aware and drive safely.
OM just youth that are the . • "If they see us sitting on the
Ioffenders,. its adults also. So corner. watching die initiate-
• when people try to point the tion. they're going to stop.
1 finger at an •age group. .it's That's what we want,' he said.
across the board." .:'I don't want to write them a
The primary goal of the new ticket. I want them to stop so
unit is'to reduce maflic acts- they won't crash into the per-
1 dents, Schrader said. . i ',son that's coming through on
"Eagan has about 15 of the _ the green.",
' top 50 traffic accident intersee- - To'coatact die traffic unit, •
dons in the county," he said.: call (651) -675-5826. Callers '
"So you'can are there's a real • should .leave ve a message ?rich
concern there with traffic acci-• • their name,' address. the area
dents. So we really want to.. they want watched. the type of
reduce that, and it's going to be problem they r: having in the
through education and enforce- area and the times those prob-
ment of the traffic laws" hems are occurring. All calls .
For instant, just between will receive a response and all
the 1102 and 61103 blocks of callers' names will remain con -
Cliff Road.'there were .206 fidential.
accidents in an 18-month peri- :The Eagan Police
od. . ' ' 'Department also offers child
road._
"That's only one And safety seat checks to make sure
Yankee is worse" Stevens said. they're properly installed. To
"Most of these accidents on make an appointment call the
Cliff. Road are at controlled department to make an
intersections. That means -the appointment at (651) 675-
red liahcs are •already there. 5728. . '
City sponsors
photo contest
,t inning pictures
will appear on
Fagan :s Web site
by Erin Johnson
t ISWI...hI N1.1%SR11 It
The city of Eagan is calling
on amateur photographers to
capture quintessential images
of the city through its "Picture
Eagan" photo contest.
Categories include the best
historic view, the best scenic
view and the best view of com-
munity facilities in Eagan.
"When we look at what
makes up the fabric of a com-
munity. art and the representa-
tion of a conununity are cer-
tainly a big part of that." said
Eagan Director of
Communications Tom
Garrison. 'Photos have a way
of depicting not just actuality
but emotion and feeling and the
positive benefits of our com-
munity. That's what we're hop-
ing to get out of this — some
images that help define what
Eagan is.
When you ask what images
would define cities like
Minneapolis. he said. the
choices are obvious. But not so
in Eagan.
"For instance, the
Grandfather Tree at the com-
munity Center could be one of
those icons over time that
defines Eagan," he said. "That's
hat's
why we're leaving it up to ama-
teur photographers and resi-
dents. What do they see
through their lens as a view that
defines Eagan?"
Judges for the photo contest
will be made up of local pho-
tography and communication
professionals. All photographs
will be assigned numbers so
judges will not see the name of
the photographer, Garrison
See Contest, 5A
I leis l�i,�e k � (o, (o3
Contest/from 11A
said.
'They will be judged basil on
individual appeal and individual
merit;' he said
Prizes include $100 for best
overall photo: $50 for hest his-
toric view. $50 for best scenic
view: and $50 for best view of
community facilities.
The contest is open to all ages.
"It's a wide-open competi-
tion." he said. "We've had some
entries. but for instance we have
no entries for the historic view."
Winning photographs may be
used in city publications and on
the city's Web site to highlight
the city's history, key landmarks,
views, neighborhoods and parks
and to visually convey the com-
munity.
"We're doing this because we
have an amazingly beautiful
community. Eagan has had a lot
of fast growth in the last couple
of years and we haven't had the
budgets to purchase commercial
photos for the community." he
said. "'Ibis is a cost-effective way
to get nice -looking photos of
Eagan for cur Web page and
Eagan publications and reward
amateur photographers."
It will also build some com-
munity camaraderie. he said.
"I would hope that if the pho-
tos are good enough we can dis-
play them at the Community
Center or another appropriate
location," he said.
Participants in the contest
must be Eagan residents. This
contest is for amateur photogra-
phers only; no professional pho-
tographers may enter.
To enter. submit up to three 5
x 7 color or black and white
prints. Disks and slides will not
be accepted.
Each entry must include an
accompanying entry fortn that
includes the category being
entered. the photographer's
name. address, phone number
and a one sentence descnption of
each submitted photo.
Send photos to:
Communications Department.
City of Eagan. 3830 Pilot Knob
Road. Eagan. MN 55123.
The deadline for submission
is Monday. Aug_ 4 at 4:30 p.m.
All photo entries become the
property of the city of Eagan and
are non -returnable. Entrants
agree entered photos twith prop-
er credit) can be published or dis-
played.
Photos will be judged by a
panel of independent judges. All
winning entries will be displayed
on the city's Web page. A
complete list of rules can be
found on the City's Web site at
www.cityofeagan.com.
Erin Johnson is ut
eugan. thisweek (P ecm-inc. rum
Film/from 1 A
off."
Neff said his impressions of
the entries were as varied as
the films themselves.
"There was a wide range of
styles and genres, which made
it tough to compare." he said.
"We judged based on technical
quality, artistic quality and sto-
rylines."
Some of his former students
submitted films to the contest,
he said, including Miles
Garvey.
"So I was kind of eager to
see what showed up." he said.
Neff said he has never
judged a film contest before,
but feels eminently qualified
given his profession.
"I judge them every grading
period," he said, laughing.
While he said there is room
for improvement in the criteria
for each category, Neff said he
hopes the festival will continue
in the future.
"Hopefully this will just
grow," he said. .
Kay Christienson of
Burnsville/Eagan Community
Television. who was also a
judge for the competition. said
she was impressed by the qual-
ity of some of the films.
"Some of the entries were
just absolutely surprising.
Some really stood out," she
said. "I hope that now the fes-
tival has been established we'll
get more entries"
Judges were given a form to
complete, and each judge cri-
tiqued each film individually
and gave their comments. The
films with the highest overall
scores won. she said.
The films will air on cable
in the near future. Christienson
said to visit www.bect.tv for
schedule information.
The judges were all
impressed with Eagan resident
Dennis Felling's basement the-
ater. where the films were
viewed. The theater was
designed with an old-time
movie house in mind, com-
plete with gold and velvet, sta-
dium seating. full surround
sound, a concession stand and
a rnamu
"He did a nice job of giving
us a comfortable place to be so
we could concentrate on the
films," she said.
Eagan resident Todd
Randall, who won the adult
short film category. said he was
happy to have a community
showcase for his work.
"It was very cool to win. 11
feels good and it's cool that the
community gets to see what
I'm doing." he said. "I think
it's definitely a good direction.
I think next year will be twice
as big as this year. I think (the
film festival) is a great idea."
His film. titled "Artistry for
Life," is about physical karma,
he said.
"It's showing how tiny we
all are and how tiny our prob-
lems are in the huge scale of
things." he said. "If people can
cooperate things will get bet-
ter. If you use creative energy
to do something positive,
something positive will come
back to you"
The film features a piece of
art that gets passed around
from person to person. each
having a had day. Each person
adds their own touch to the
piece of an. which brightens
their day. until it conies full
circle.
"It's a good thing that
moves around from person to
person and everybody puts
their little bit of input on it" he
said.
Randall said he has been
interested in art and photogra-
phy since he was 4 or 5 years
old.
"1 used to sit down and paint
at my grandmother's kitchen
table when we would visit," he
said.
He used to put so much
energy into painting he would
need to take a nap to recover,
he said.
"1 got into the video aspect
in high school," he said. "I
took a year -long video produc-
tion class. It taught the basics
and we got to go out and play
with cameras"
This isn't the first time
Randall has been recognized
for his video skills. He recent-
ly took first place in television
and video production at the
Skills USA Vocational
Nationals. a competition of
more than 4.000 students, in
Kansas City.
He said he intends to
become a professional film-
maker and is currently pursu-
ing a degree in video produc-
tion at Hennepin Technical
College.
"My dream is to do big
blockbuster movies that inspire
and awe," he said.
Ryan Wetherall, of Eagan,
won the youth short film cate-
gory with his film, "Star Wars:
The Next Trimester."
The film is about a Jedi
being chased by storm troopers
while trying to collect test
answers for his videography
final. The movie even includes
a light saber fight scene, which
Wetherall said he painted
frame by frame using special
software. The light sabers were
made of trowels and plumbing
supplies purchased at
Hardware Hank.
"I didn't really think I'd
win. I didn't know what to
expect." he said.
Wetherall also recently won
an Emmy for a compilation of
videos and logos he's created.
He received one of 42 awards
presented nationwide, and his
entry. "Ryan's Video
Collection." was awarded the
highest score of all entries sub-
mitted.
"I've been interested in film
since I was in sixth grade when
a friend and I were making
stop -action Lego animation,"
he said.
Wetherall said he admires
directors Steven Spielberg,
James Cameron and Hayao
Miyazaki. and hopes to follow
in their footsteps.
"I hope to be a movie direr-
' tor. 1 hope to end up in
California one way or another,
in Hollywood," he said.
He said he used his $ 100
prize money to buy speakers
and some anime.
"I'm a huge anime freak,"
he said.
Wetherall said he is not sur-
prised the festival was a suc-
cess because he believes there
are many closet filmmakers in
the area.
"I think it's great. There are
a lot of people in Eagan who
have the same kind of passion
and this is a great chance to
help them get known." he said.
"I think it should continue
every year."
Festival winners include:
• Ryan Wetherall, youth
short film. "Star Wa?s: A New
Trimester."
• Germain Gulick, youth
film six to 15 minutes in
length, "The Rhapsody of
Life."
• Brian Hendricks, youth
film 16 to 30 minutes in length.
"For the Longest Time: Apple
Valley Prom" and Eagan High
School second -hour ESL class.
"Coming to America" (Tie)
• Todd Randall, adult short
film. "Artistry for Life."
• Miles Garvey. adult film ql
16 to 30 minutes in length, "It
Grows Inside"
Erin Johnson is at
Ragan. thiswerk@ecm-inc.com.
- • 4k. *- - -.-.*-
Joseph Kennealy
was Eagan `pioneer'
80-year-old founded community's oldest business
BY MARA H. GOTTFRIED
Pioneer J eess
As a lifelong Eagan resident, Joseph
William Kennealy continued the tradi-
tion his family started in shaping Eagan's
history.
Kennealy began a business on the fami-
1y's land — settled by his great-grandpar-
ents from Ireland who came to Eagan in
1858 — as a young man. An Eagan organs.
Joseph W.
Kdy
cation recently recognized Kennealy Sand
Co. as the city's oldest business.
Silver Bell Road became Silver Bell
Road thanks to Kennealy, who named the
Eagan street where he lived.
And when he died July 13 at home,
from heart and lung problems after a bout
of pneumonia, it was not far from the
house where he was born. He was 80.
EAGAN'PIONEER'. aB
Eagan `pioneer'
(contrnued
Kennealy was born Dec. 16,
1922 He graduated from the old
Bloomington High School.
Foundry sand was mined on
the family land starting around
1920, but it was Kennealy who
formed Kennealy Sand Co. in
1943.
"He had a lot of pride that it
was coming off the family land"
said son Tom Kennealy, of
Eagan, who worked with his
father for about 20 years.
The changes in Eagan —
from a rural community to a
bustling suburb — didn't
bother Kennealy, said daughter
Rose Karas, of Inver Grove
Heights.
"He looked towards the
future and he enjoyed seeing the
progress that was happening."
she said. "He had no desire to
move or change things."
He also took pride in his Irish
heritage, Karas said.
"He was kind of a little lep-
rechaun: he had 'a real twinkle
in his eye," she said.
Kennealy met Elisabeth
Feely. who became the first
female journalist for the Dakota
County Tribune, at a dance.
They were married for 54 years
before her death in December.
Through the years, the two
always loved dancing together,
Karas said.
Inthe 1960s, some roads
didn't have official names, but
they were needed for mail deliv-
ery- On the front yard of the
Kennealys' home was a Large sil-
ver bell, which was rung at sup-
pertime to summon the eight
children home, Karas said. That
bell was the inspiration for the
name - Silver Bell Road — that
Kennealy submitted -
Also during the 1960s, he was
a founding member of Mary,
Mother of the Church, a Catholic
church in Burnsville.
He was a hard-working man
- he used to tell stories of try-
ing to dig out sand in winter —
but he had a soft spot for flow-
ers, said daughter Margaret
Mollner of Burnsville.
When other varieties of sand
became more commonly used,
Kennealy got into landscaping
and snowplowing, said Tom
Kennealy. In recent years, since
Kennealy stopped working part
time a few years ago, the busi-
ness hasn't really been active,
Tom said.
Kennealy, a Knights of
Columbus member, was, by
nature, a social man, Mollner
said His funeral was attended
both by close friends and family
and by people he met in the
everyday course of life: bank
tellers, pharmacists, a butcher.
"1 think that shows he was all
about relationships and connec-
tions," she said.
Joseph Connolly, a retired
city official, came to know Ken-
nealy when he moved to Eagan
in 1960 and needed black dirt for
his own property.
"Everything he did was top-
notch," he said. "Among the peo-
ple involved in the community; I
think his name and legacy will
hang around for some time."
Kennealy is also survived by
daughters Collor Kennealy of
The changes in
Eagan — from a rural
community to a
bustling suburb —
didn't bother Kennealy,
said daughter Rose
Karas, of Inver Grove
Heights: "He had no
desire to move or
change things."
Omaha, Neb.. and Patricia Zim-
mer of Albertville; sons
William and Robert, both of
Eagan, and John, of Shakopee;
a sister, Helen Adelmann of
Eagan; and a brother, Richard
of River Falls, Wis.
Mara H. Gottfried can be
reached at mgottfried@proneer
press.com or 651-228-5262.
Municipal Airport, airport man-
ager Dave Deel said, adding that
the pilot, an area farmer, was
"very meticulous" and safety
conscious.
Meanwhile, the pilot injured
in a plane crash Friday in Mille
Lacs County has died Carlin D.
Cain, 69, of Isle, died Saturday
afternoon at North Memorial
Medical Center in Robbinsdale.
Cain's single -engine Cessna
172 crashed into the yard of a
home near the Isle airport, on
the southeast side of Lake Mille
Lacs. The plane crashed
moments after taking off_
Associated Press
WILLMAR, MINN.
Collision kills one,
injures nine others
One person was killed and
nine others were injured in a
two -vehicle crash about 10 miles
north of Willmar.
A van and a car collided
about 225 p.m. Sunday near the
Lake Andrew Town Hall.
Sharon Kay Burris, 56, of
a er, was driving a 1994
Yamaha motorcycle when the
accident happened at 3:12 p.m
Sunday. Balthazor tried to pass
on the left in a no -passing zone,
striking the Cherokee, said Cyn-
thia Lehman, spokeswoman for
the State Patrol. The driver of
the Jeep was not injured_
- Amy Chen
BARRETT, MINN.
Boy, 14, killed
in gun accident
A 14-year-old boy Is dead in
an accidental shooting near
Barrett in western Minnesota,
Grant County authorities said
Monday.
Sheriff Dwight Walvatne
said the victim and a 15-year-old
companion were handling
firearms at a home north of Bar-
rett when one gun went off Sun-
day afternoon, killing the 14-
year-old.
The sheriff's office and the
Minnesota Bureau of Criminal
Apprehension were investigat-
ing.
— Associated Press
assigned a story on Canadian
marijuana laws, Stu Zakim, a
spokesman for the magazine,
said.
A previous story that Glass
wrote for Rolling Stone result-
ed in a lawsuit. The anti -drug
program Drug Abuse Resis-
tance Education or D_A_RF ,
sued the magazine in 1999
over Glass' story about the
group, part of which he admit-
ted inventing.
Zakim said Rolling Stone
owner.lann Wenner felt it was
worth giving Glass another
chance. Wenner was not avail-
able for comment.
This spring, Simon &
Schuster published the novel,
"The Fabulist," an autobio-
graphical — but invented —
account of Glass's rise and fall
at The New Republic.
Harry Potter a hero
in any language
Everybody's favorite wiz-
ard not only outwits evil Lord
Voldemort and saves the day
at Hogwarts School of Witch-
craft and Wizardry, he also
uc -an icipat
book will be released as a 15-
part series, for about 30 cents
an installment, so that even
poor children can afford to
enter Harry's magical world.
Eager fans in Germany and
China already have begun cir-
culating unofficial transla-
tions of the book on the Inter-
net, unwilling to wait for
official translations due this
fall.
He's no Republican;
he'll play one on TV
Democratic Party stalwart
Barbra Streisand will be
welcoming a Republican presi-
dent home. Her husband,
actor James Brolin, has been
cast as Ronald Reagan in a
four-hour CBS miniseries
titled. "The Reagans," set to
air during the November
sweeps period.
The network hasn't asked
Streisand her opinion of the
casting, "but we'll have to live
with that," CBS Chairman
Leslie Moonves joked Sunday
in remarks to the Television
Critics Association.
Eagan Planning
Commission member
is charged with assault
Ronald Miller claimed he was on official
city business when altercation took place
by Erie. Johnson
THCSK1+A 'II WSVAH (
Eagan Planning Commission
Member Ronald Miller claimed
he was on official city business
when he got into an altercation at
an Eagan business that resulted in
his arrest for assault.
Milks was arrested and cited
for fifth -degree assault June 28.
According to the police
report, Miller had an ongoing
problem with the Richfield
Blacktop Company, located near
his home on Highway 13. Miller
told police he went to confront
the owner because the compa-
ny's front-end loader was filling
his house with diesel smoke.
When Miller arrived, he con-
fronted employee Charles
Gallatly, who was operating the
front-end loader. the report states.
Miller stood in front of the
machine. picked up some dirt and
threw it at Gallatly. According to
the report, Miller said he threw
the dirt because Gallatly refused
to listen to him,
Gallatly told officers that
Miller then hit him twice in the
face. Miller told •police he was
defending himself against
Gallatly, but that he newer actual-
ly struck Gallatly.
Gallatly said he was indeed
struck by Miller. and he respond-
ed with punches to Milier's back
and side and then walked away to
call the police, the report states.
According to the report. when
the officer arrived at Richfield
Blacktop, he observed that
Charles Gallatly's face was full
of dirt and there was blood drip-
ping from a small cut on his fore-
head.
'"This apparently was caused
by Ronald,' the mport states.
According to the report.
Miller told the officer he went to
the Richfield Blacktop Company
on official business as a city offi-
cial for the Eagan Planning
Commission.
He was given a summons for
fifth -degree assault as well as a
trespass notice signed by the
owner of Richfield Blacktop.
Miller did not return phone
calls.
Miller was not on official city
business. nor was he acting in his
capacity as a commission mem-
ber, said City Administrator Tom
Hedges.
"We have code enforcement
See Assauh, 6A
mie
Assault/from lA
officers that would typically
respond to any kind of an issue
like that," Hedges said.
Mayor Geagan has had con-
versations with Miller about the
incident. Hedges said, and asked
that the city look into the matter.
'"[here has to be some kind of
process to allow all of the facts
and information to be presented:
he said.
According to Eagan city
code, there has to be a determi-
nation and finding of fact before
a commission member can be
removed, he said.
The City Council appointed City
Clerk Maria Karels as the hear-
ing officer at its Tuesday meet-
ing. Karels will gather all the
facts. make her finding and pres-
ent it to the council. The council
will then make a determination
as to whether Miller should be
removed from the Planning
Commission.
The council will focus on
whether Miller committed
malfeasance as a Planning
Commission member only; they
will not make a determination
based on the criminal matter,
Hedges said.
Mike Meyer, attorney for the
city of Eagan, said he was con-
cerned by the appearance of a
conflict of interest, so he decided
to pass Milier's criminal case
onto Elliot Knetsch of Campbell
Knutson.
'The wise course of action
was for me to farm it out,' he
said. "They handle Lakeville and
Farmington and wouldn't have
any conflict doing this."
Knetsch said that the next step
for Miller is to appear in court
and enter a plea.
The maximum punishment
for a misdemeanor offense is
$1.000 and/or 90 days in jail, he
said.
Erin Johnson is at
eagan.thisweek@ecm-inc.com.
Fagan economy
needs revival
To the editor:
The article in the July 3 edi-
tion of Eagan Thisweek about the
retum of Jon Hohenstein to
Eagan as Community
Development Director is an inter-
esting story.
As noted, his job will involve
economic development, zoning
and redevelopment strategies,
and he will also direct the city's
code enforcement, inspections
and planning efforts.
As a citizen of a thriving com-
munity like ours. I see that vision
can make a difference in commu-
nity development_ The Eagan
economy, not that much different
Ifrom the state in general, could
stand some development. some
might even say revival.
• 1 don't know what local
unemployment statistics are like.
Pand. 1 do know that friends and
relatives have been unemployed
for long periods or gone through
necessary career changes.
I hope the dirmtor will work
with local educational institu-
tions, local and state re-employ-
ment programs, and federal
resources to optimize the talent
and "human capital" available in
our area to invigorate the role we
can all play in the recovery of our
mini -economy and that of our
country.
CONSTANCE PETERSON
Eagan
Office of Administrative Hearings Hornepage Page 2 of 2
AH Home I APA Section I Work Comp I Information I Northstar
httpi//www.oah.stote.mn.us/apa.htmI
7/23/2003
Office of Administrative Hearings Homepage
Page 2 of 2
1
by Erb Jobaasow
MISWEIFX KFW.'.PAPEAs
The Eagan City Council
voted unanimously Tuesday to
extend the city's bar closing
time to 2 a.m.
The city's former ordinance
allowed bars to stay open to 1
a.m. In order to extend the
hours, the council had to
approve an amendment to the
City code.
To get a read on how local
liquor establishments felt about
the later closing time, the Eagan
Thweek
tChcito3
w*W thisweek-online coin
Eagan extends bar closing to 2 a.m.
Surveys, meetings ...:... ........ establishments
Surveys, with local establishnments brought about City C'ouncil's decision
Convention and Visitors Bureau
(ECVB) conducted a survey of
affected businesses. Only seven
responded and the majority
were in favor of the 2 a.m. clos-
ing.
The city then invited all
licensed on -sale liquor estab-
lishments to an informational
meeting Thursday, July 10 to
get a definitive answer_ Of the
45 businesses invited, only 12
people representing eight estab-
lishments attended.
"There was a strong consen-
sus of those present that a 2
a.m. closing should be provided
for in the code." said City
Administrator Tom Hedges.
A total of 16 establishments
were supportive of the extended
hours. he said. Only one, the
Cherokee Sirloin Room. voiced
opposition to the change.
John Mercer, a representa-
tive of Old Chicago. spoke at
the meeting in favor of the
change. and said surrounding
cities will have to look at
changing as well.
"We're in about 25 states
with 90 restaurants around the
country," he said. "In other
communities we've been in
where these laws come into
play. the real problem is that
where there's a differential
between neighboring communi-
ties it causes a real safety issue
... it actually causes less prob-
lems in communities where
we've seen it done,"
Eagan Police Chief Kent
Therkelsen said that different
See Bars, SA
http://wvvw.oah.state.mn.us/
/I L...w Lou.,
■ara from 1A
closing times in surrounding
communities is a concern to
police, as well.
"We are concerned that if
there's a patchwork from city to
city that we will have back and
forth traffic:' he said. "So 1
think you'll see some pressures
in cities to move to this if their
neighbors are doing it:'
Neighboring cities that have
so far requested state permits
for a 2 a.m. closing include
Inver Grove Heights, Lilydale
and Lakeville. Apple Valley
will maintain its 1 a.m. closing
time, and Burnsville is undecid-
ed.
Other than the effect from
surrounding communities.
Therkelsen said his department
has no major objections to the
change.
"We looked at a couple
activity indicators — general
bar activity. closing time activi-
ty. DWI enforcement — and the
numbers were pretty unremark-
able.' he said. "There was noth-
ing in our look at this that
raised the level of us objecting
to a later time. Our position is
we're going to watch activity,
we're going to see if we have to
make any staffing adjustment,.
But we're not concerned about
it per se"
Therkelsen said Eagan's
liquor industry doesn't cause
the city many problems.
"Our bars are not problems
for us in the sense that most of
them are restaurants, and we
don't have a really heavy con-
centration of liquor licenses in
one place." he said.
The ECVB has been a vocal
supporter of the extended
hours, citing the ancillary busi-
ness Eagan gets from conven-
tions held in the Twin Cities.
"1 think it's great." said Ann
Carlon, executive director of
the ECVB. "It's a smart idea to
follow the Minneapolis -St. Paul
lead on this and be able to get
those convention groups here in
Eagan as well. It will certainly
help the economic impact from
having conventioneers staying
in Eagan by having that 2 a.m.
closing. "
Individual establishments
can still decide whether they
want to take advantage of the
extended hours or close earlier.
The council will now look
into a fee schedule to possibly
add a special licensing fee for
businesses that choose to stay
open the extra hour.
Erin Johnson is at
eagan. thisweek@ eem-inc.com.
i
Eagan moves to allow bars to close at 2 a.m.
BY JosHUA NICHOLS
Sin Newspapers
Even though the City Council.
has approved the 2 a.m. bar closing
rule, don't expect there to be too
many places in Eagan to get a drink
during the early morning hours.
"This is not even about me, it's
about the industry," said Doran
Jensen, who with his brother,
Derek, runs Jensen's Supper
Club. "We won't be making the
change, but it's good to see Eagan
out in front. I didn't want to see
Eagan sit there and languish so
I'm glad they made a decision."
Jensen said that having the
possibility of staying open until 2
a.m. will prevent business from
going elsewhere should sur-
rounding communities also go to
the later closing.
The state Legislature approved a
change this spring that allows estab-
lishments that sell alcoholic bever-
ages to stay open until 2 a.m. The pre-
vious limit set a 1 a.m. dosing time.
In cities like Eagan with ordi-
nances specifically stating a dosing
time of 1 am., the City Council can
either amend city code to allow es-
tablishments to take advantage of
the 2 am. closing or keep the more
restrictive closing, time, said City
Administrator ibm Hedges.
CLOSING: To Page 12A
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The Eagan City Council has approved the 2 a.m. bar closing rule, but few
establishment owners say they will change their hours.
www.mnSun.com
Planning commissioner faces charge
BY JosrrmA NICHOLS
Sun Newspapers
What began with some literal mud
throwing could end up being an even
messier situation for Eagan Planning
Commissioner Ronald A. Miller.
Miller was arrested and cited for fifth -
degree assault, a misdemeanor, June 28
after he allegedly claimed he was on offi-
cial city business and got into a fight at
an Eagan business near his home.
According to the police report, Miller
has had ongoing problems with the Rich-
field Blacktop Co. Miller told police that
on June 28 he went to confront the driver
of a front-end loader that was filling his
house with diesel smoke.
Miller picked up dirt and threw it at
the operator of the loader, Charles Gel-
latly According to the report, Miller said
he threw the dirt because Gellatly re-
fused to listen to him.
What happened next differs according
to Miller's and Gellady's accounts of the
incident.
Gellatlytold officers that Miller struck
him twice in the face, however Miller said
he was defending himself against Gellat-
ly and never actually hit him.
Gellatly said that after Miller hit him,
he threw his own punches to Miller's
back and side in self defense and then
left the scene to call police.
According to the report, when the of-
ficer arrived at Richfield Blacktop, he ob-
served that Gellatly's face was Rill of dirt
and there was blood dripping from a
small cut on his forehead.
"This apparently was caused by
Ronald," the report states.
According to the report. Miller told
the officer he went to the Richfield Black-
top Co. on official business as a member
of the Eagan Planning Commission.
Gellatly who wasn't cited in the alterca-
tion, said he had never met Miller before the
incident He told police"th<
Last thing he wants to do is
get into some kind of alter-
cation" because he has a
pacemaker and a defibrilla-
tor in his chest.
Miller did not return
phone calls seeking com-
ment on the incident.
Miller Ina letter to the city the
owner of Richfield Black-
top. Penny Johnson, stated that Miller hay
had a personal agenda against the busir, -
for years and that "his intent is to put us ()La
of business no matter what the cost"
The Eagan City Council appointed
Miller, who ran unsuccessfully for a
council seat in 2002, to the Planning
Commission earlier this year.
Miller was not on official city business
and was not acting in his role as a com-
mission member during the incident,
said City Administrator Tom Hedges.
According to Eagan city code, there has
to be a determination and finding of fact be-
fore a commission member can be removed.
During the City Council's July 15 meet-
ing, the council appointed City Clerk Maria
Karels as the hearing officer for the process.
Karels will gather information about the
incident, make a finding and pmsent that in-
formation to the oounciL Any decision re-
garding whether Miller should be removed
as a commissioner will be up to the council.
The council will focus only on whether
Miller committed malfeasance as a Plan-
ning Commission member; council mem-
bers will not make a determination based
on the criminal matter, Hedges said.
Besides being cited for fifth -degree as-
sault, Miller was given a notice for tres-
passing in the incident Richfield Blacktop
has a temporary restraining order against
Miller, Johnson said in her letter to the city
The maximum punishment for a mis-
demeanor offense is a $1.000 fine and 90
days in jail.
4 4 4
1VION
Thursday, July 24, 2003
fnities. Signed letters should be no longer than 450 words. Include daytime and evening phone numbers
f Sun Newspapers, which reserves the right to edit and publish them in any format, including online.
patience of this. pa tien t
fitly that was me. I
Bartlett 'is really
)pounce. Oh well, I
I to the front and
er down the white
nost people can un-
.hat you can't al -
on time for an ap-
Doctors are busy
their patients have
illnesses, injuries
rns. But what al -
le is when you wait
in the lobby, then
er 20 in the room
more boring than
nick meeting with
was left alone in
's room, forced
in old health mag-
arned in a 1984
strawberries are
preventing kidney
t I read through a
saying strawber-
kidney stones.
d another article
health magazine
at said strawber-
't be eaten at all,
when they're
1wn in Siberia.
favorite part of
office is the corny
l posters they al-
ways have on the wall, or the
ceiling if you're at the den-
tist. I spent a good 15 minutes
pondering the message in the
poster that showed large
waves crashing on an even
larger rock during a beautiful
sunset.
"Those who doubt their
power increase the power of
. their doubts," the poster said.
Huh? • •
I soon started to get a
headache and then the doctor
came in. I told her about my
aching foot, that I don't know
how it happened, I don't think
it's hereditary and, yes; I would
like to keep it, so amputation
isn't an option at this point.
She didn't know what was
wrong, so naturally I was re-
ferred to a foot specialist who
probably can see me in about 12
years. I'll still have to wait a
half-hour, though.
I did get to have my foot X-
rayed during the visit, and
that's always a pleasure. You
get those nice warm X-ray
pads placed on your body and
you get to lie down on a nice
comfy bed more apt for stack-
ing piles of bricks. Then you
get zapped by lasers and get to
wait another 10 minutes until
your pictures are ready.
I happened to sit next to the
machine that spits out the X-
rays. It looked like a cigarette
dispenser from the 1960s and
its name was something
called the X-ray Tron. I
thought my foot photos would
come shooting out with a pack
of Marlboros, from 1967.
After about 90 minutes I was
free to leave, having learned
nothing about my foot problem,
but that Saddam Hussein is a
cranky sort of dude who should
start eating those strawberries
that are so awful.
People in the medical pro-
fession wonder why so many ,i
would rather just endure pain
than visit their local doctor.
Perhaps it's because more
pain is caused during that
visit.
Tim Bartlett is the community
editor for the Lakeville Sun -
Current. .
SUNeCURRENT
Fagan edition
JOSHUA NICHOLS
Community Editor
952482.2462
sunnvrentsouthCmnsun.com
Avnv Rocegs i�
Closing
From Page IA
For Dan Gavin. who took over Al R iker's
at the beginning of .July the change is also
one he supported, even though he won't be
going to the later closing time.
"It's a good change and it will serve to
keep business in Eagan." Gavin said.
"We're more family orientated and our busi-
ness tends to have died down before it gets
too late."
The Fagan Convention and Visitors Bu-
reau conducted informal surveys of estab-
lishments in Eagan an both before and after
the Legislature made the change_
Over the course of thine surveys, a total
of 16 establishments supported the change
while one, Cattle Company; opposed it. And
since the surveys were finished, more busi-
ness owners have indicated to the city that
they supported the change, sa id /ledges.
The city also had a meting for all li-
censed on -sale establishments so they could
share their thoughts regarding the change.
A total of 12 people representing eight busi-
nesses attended that July 10 meeting and
unanimously supported the change.
Businesses thinking about the 2 a.m.
closing must submit an application to the
Minnesota Department of Public Safety A
fee ranging from $200 to $600 is part of the
application process_
During the July 15 City Council meeting.
John Mercier, representing Old Chicago,
said that the change is one that will help
public safety
"In our experience. where this has hap-
pened in other areas, there has been a real
problem where differences between neigh-
boring communities creates a real safety
issue." Mercier said.
Mercier said that if one community has
2.a.m- bar closings and another doesn't, it
can create a flow of patrons from one city to
the other to take advantage cif the later dos-
ing time.
www.mnSun.com
Jensen agreed.
"It's not a good situation to have people
driving from one bar to the next so they can
move on and have another drink at a later
closing time." Jensen said. "On one hand it's
a public safety issue and it's also an issue of
looking out for people's taxes and keeping
the money in Eagan."
('ouncihnember Meg Tilley questioned
whether the city could make the 2 aan. clos-
ing available only on Fridays and Satur-
days.
Although that was a possibility, city staff
and other council members said it wasn't a
good idea
"I think to be consistent and prevent con-
fusion. we should keep it the same for all
days.., Mayor. Pat Geagan said.
While City Council members supported
the change, voting 5-0 in favor of it, they also
were concerned with generating additional
money for the city to cover administrative
costs.
Tilley said that some communities have
instituted an additional permit fee on the
city level.
It would be a good way for the city to cap-
ture some fees," Councilmember Peggy
Carlson said.
After approving the change, the council
directed staff to draft a plan for a fee sched-
ule for the permits.
While most Eagan restaurant owners
don't seem ready to make changes to their
hours, at least not yet. they agreed that it's a
good change for others who might want to.
"It's a good thing for those guys who are
in that particular niche," Gavin said. "They
can now have it and people won't be running
to other communities."
And Jensen said that even if other sur-
rounding communities haven:t made the
change yet, they likely will follow suit.
"We're really not going to utilize it,"
Jensen said. "We're not using the 1 a.m.
closing time as it is. But it makes sure
Eagan isn't going to be at a competitive
disadvantage if nearby cities like Bloom-
ington, Burnsville and Apple Valley all
go to 2 a.m."
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voices, but it doesn't allow her to
make out what the voices are say=
ing. •
"It helps me a lot.- she said.
"It also helps me to hear my
voice. It's important to me."
She can sometimes read lips.
but has difficulty if people speak
quickly or unclearly, she said.
Joette admits she wasn't eager
at fast for her daughter to join the
pageant circuit.
"My first thought was:.
'There's no way I want to get
involved in this,"" she said. "But 1
didn't want to put the kibosh on it'
for her — it was her request. It's
got to take a lot of self-confi-
dence and self-esteem to even
enter, and so I certainly would
support her if she wanted to
enter."
The pageant took up a lot of
time and cost a lot of money,
Elizabeth said.
"You have to buy everything
from clothes to makeup to shoes,
everything for the pageant," she
said.
There were retreats, endless
rehearsals, and long periods of
time standing' in high -heels,
which she said was downright
painful.
"I hated that part;' she said. -
'The heels killed my feet."
Luckily. Elizabeth had many
supportive family members to
help her throughout the process.
Her aunt, Janet, who lives in
Arizona, helped make the cos-
tumes ' and choreograph her
dance. Janet's daughter. Sarah,
was crowned Miss Tucson and
had some pageant experience to
share. Her uncle, Jack, built the
easel for the portrait, and her
aunt, Jill, a sign -language inter-
preter, helped refine her platfoml.
n Elizabeth's cousin- Autumn
Moon, was there to lend moral
support and encouragement.
While there were many times
throughout the pageant that she
wanted to quit, she chose to stay
and•see her commitment through.
And she's glad she did.
Elizabeth, left, stands with.
Minnesota, Elee yang. ,
"It was fun with the people we
worked with," she said. "We
played games and I made friends
with five other girls." -
The pageant ultimately helped
with her self-confidence.
Elizabeth said.
"It helped me a lot," she said
"But I miss the people. It was
fun."
The pageant also allowed her
to meet other girls her age who
face similar. challenges, and she
walked away with five new
friends. In addition, she said, she
learned how to dress for inter-,
views. how to conduct herself in
interviews, and how to socialize
with deaf people who are older
than she is, like the stage crew. -
Elizabeth will begin her senior
year at Highland Park Senior
High School in St. Paul, a school
she chose because it has a larger
deaf population than area
. Submirr dWwto
the newly crowned Miss Deaf
schools. Joette said.
She plans to attend college
after high school, and said she
wants to pursue acareer-in drama
or maybe join the FBI.
"It's something I'm interested
aL U4 .duJC Vi UIC . ♦ t1. VYJii4 ti
about Sue Thomas. an FBI agent
who's'a deaf woman. It's a true
story' she said.
Elizabeth said she is a very
independent person and has no
problem being on her own:But
the one obstacle she has yet to
overcome is her fear of driving.
-I'm still scared of taking the
car. I've heard rumors about acci-
dents and how stupid some peo-
ple drive. and people drive crazy
at rush hour;' she said. laughing.
Erin Johnson . is at
eagan.rhisweek@ecm-inc.com.
Assault/from lA
•
officers that would typically
respond to any kind of an issue
like that." Hedges said. -
Mayor Geagan has had con-
versations with Miller about the
incident. Hedges said. and asked
that the city look into the matter.
"There has to be some kind of
process to allow all of the facts'
and information to be presented;'
he said. -
According -to Eagan city
code. there has to be a determi-
nation and finding of fact before
a commission member can 'be
removed, he said. - +-
•
The City Council appointed City -
Clerk Maria Karels as the hear-
ing officer at its Tuesday meet-
ing. Kaiels will gather all the
facts. make her finding and pres-
ent it to the council. The council
will then make a determination
as to s nether Nfiller should be
removed from the Planning
Cormission.
The council will 'focus -on -'
whether Miller committed
malfeasance as a Planning
Commission member only; they
will not make a determination
based • on the criminal matter,
Hedges said.
Mike Meyer, attorney for the
city of Eagan, said he was con-
cerned by the appearance of -a
conflict of interest. so he decided
to pass runner s cuuuum ease
onto Elliot Knetsch of Campbell
Knutson:
-The wise course of action
was for me to farm it out," he _
said. "They handle Lakeville and
Farmington and wouldn't have -
any conflict doing this."
Knetsch said that the next step
for Miller is to appear in court
and enter a plea '..
The maximum punishment
for a misdemeanor -,offense is..,
$ I,000 and/or 90 days in jail, he
said.
Erin Johnson_,.: is at
eagan.thisweek@ecm-inc.com.
first aid and safety course to be offered in Eagan
f ing; CPR for adults, children
>_ and infants: and basic first aid.
t A 10-hour Red Cross com-
munity first aid and safety
course will be taught Saturday,
July 19 and Saturday, July 26
from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. each day
at the Eagan Coldwell Banker
Burnet office, 1875 Plaza
Drive.
r.
•
•
There -are no prerequisites'.
for the class, and the course
_.fee is $90. Upon successful
completion of the course, par-'
ticipants will receive an adult,
infant and child .CPR certifi-
cate and a first aid basics cer-
tificate. Participants will also
receive a Red Cross first aid
kit. For additional information
and registration ' materials.
1/5 (0( 0 -
www thisweek-online com
Eagan man is
charged with
counterfeiting
sunglasses
Police found 16,000
pairs of replica Oakleys
at suspect's home
by Erin Johnson
THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS
An Eagan man has been
charged with two counts of
counterfeiting for allegedly
selling counterfeit Oakley
sunglasses over the Internet.
Joseph Francis Werb, 25.
allegedly sold thousands of
replica sunglasses with
Oakley markings along with
counterfeit purses. clothing
and watches between
February of 2002 and May of
2003, according to the Dakota
County Attorney's Office.
According t0 the com-
plaint. the Eagan Police
Department was contacted by
a private investigator working
on behalf of Oakley. Inc.
about a possible illegal distri-
bution of counterfeit Oakley
sunglasses over the Internet.
The complaint states that
four cease and desist letters
had been sent to a post office
box listed on the Web site
located at a St. Paul UPS
store. The letters advised the
Web site that it was violating
the Trademark Act and
demanded that it immediately
cease and desist the sale of
the knockoff glasses,
On Sept. 30, 2002. a
response was sent to Oakley,
Inc. from the Web site claim-
ing that its disclaimer pre-
vented liability.
While there was a dis-
claimer on the Web site, the
sunglasses themselves violat-
ed Oakley's trademark. said
Monica Jensen, community
relations director for the
Dakota County Attorney's
Office.
"Whatever he sold had the
'O' above the eye stem as well
as 'Oakley' above the nose
piece." she said.
See Oakley, 6A
Thisweek
Laqan
awing logs 1/'/
°s
Norm Peterson, right, of Fagan shows local children how Americans lived in the 1940s during
summer camp at Holz Farm in Fagan. The camp provides children with hands-on opportunities
like butter churning, rope making and corn shelling.
LS,
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Coming Summer/Fall 2003
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Retail $25,590
Pkq. Disc.. • $1 ,285
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Pkq. Disc - $850
Rebate - 52,500
niarnunt - - - $3.301
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LOCKS.
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3RD
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land recYevelopment
New city hire to focus on
Director to find new life for old buildings
RY MARA H. GOTTFRIEI)
Pioneer Press
When Jon Hohenstein began working
for Eagan in 1985, the city was estimated
to be 55 percent developed.
Now, as Hohenstein Is poised to return
to the city as the newly minted communi-
ty development director, Eagan Ls estimat-
ed to be 96 percent developed.
With little land left in Eagan on which
to build. the city faces a new challenge:
redevelopment and reuse. And Hohen-
stein's hire, for a post that hasn't officially
been filled for the past few years, seems to
represent a renewed commitment from
the city to plan for it.
"Redevelopment, I think, is the future
for our city," said city administrator Tom
Hedges.
There was a time when developers
came to Eagan with little encouragement
from the city. Eagan was considered
attractive, especially for its convenient
location to St. Paul, Minneapolis and the
airport.
But now, with Tess vacant land avail-
able, Eagan is realizing it needs to do
more to sell itself to developers, said
Mayor Pat Geagan. and Hohenstein will be
that salesperson.
Hohenstein, who is leaving his job as
Mahtomedi's city administrator, will take
up planning for redevelopment, along
with overseeing the city's overall econom-
ic development.
St. Paul, Minneapolis and some first -
ring suburbs have already dealt with rede-
velopment issues, and now that experi-
ence is arriving more at second -ring
suburbs, said C-aren Dewar, deputy
regional administrator at the Metropoli-
EAGAN REDEVELOPMENT, 2B
FROM PAGE 1B
Eagan redevelopment
(continued)
tan Council, the regional plan-
ning agency for the seven -coun-
ty metro area.
"They're dealing with the
same market opportunities that
the core cities have experienced
- what do you do with build-
ings that are not being used for
what they were originally
built?" she said.
Advantages to redevelop-
ment are its potential to boost
the property tax base and to
provide market choices, Dewar
said.
So far. Eagan is short on spe-
cific goals for redevelopment.
It's something the City Council
plans to work on once Hohen-
stein is on board; he begins Aug.
11, with a salary of S91,933.
Creagan pointed to two major
projects. though, that he said
"need some leadership." Both
are tax -increment financing
redevelopment
districts. a tool
that cities use
to jump-start
development- In
a T1F district, a
portion of a pro-
ject's property
taxes can be
diverted for
other uses.
One project,
Cedar Grove, is a redevelop-
ment project near Minnesota 13
and Cedar Avenue that plans to
bring retail, offices and housing
to the area The other — bound-
ed by Minnesota 55, Minnesota
149 and Interstate 494 — is a
commercial -industrial district,
aimed at revitalising the area.
Asidefrom redevelopment,
there are other initiatives.
Jennifer Gale, president of
the Northern Dakota County
Chambers of Commerce, said
she hopes to partner with the
Jon
Hohenstein
ral
NEARING AIDS
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ea
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Apple Valley/Rosemount, Eagan Sun urrent/Trwr jay July 31, 2003
www.mnSun.com
Change stalls Caponi Art Park
talks with Eagan City Council
Council tables issue at July 22
meeting after new proposal from
Anthony Caponi
By Josxu*► Motors
Sun Newspapers
Like a slippery piece of clay on a pot-
tery wheel, details surrounding fltture
ownership of Caponi Art Park can be
hard to get a good grasp on.
So why should the discussion of the
issue during the Eagan City Council's
July 22 special meeting be an exception?
The council had planned to discuss
whether to make an offer on a portion of
land in the park. but part way into the
discussion found out things had
changed.
Before, the city had been concentrat-
ing its efforts on two separate parcels of
the 60-acre park; now, it has learned that
Caponi plans to sell one of those parcels
to Macalester College instead.
"The plan keeps changing and it's
never really there," Councilmember
Peggy Carlson said upon learning of the
new proposal. "We've put in so much
work and time discussing this issue and
now we have Mr. Caponi changing his
mind. We've hit a brick wall again."
Unclear on details about the new pro-
posal and whether Macalester was inter-
ested in pursuing it, the council voted
unanimously to table the issue.
Caponi, 82, has offered to sell the park,
which was recently appraised at $4 mil-
lion, to the city on various occasions
over the past two decades but the two
sides have never agreed on a deal.
His previous offer in March had
Eagan buying 30 acres of the park with
another 20 acres going to a yet -to -be
formed governing board and the remain -
Mg 10 acres being gifted to Macalester
College, where Caponi taught art.
However, shortly before the council's
July 22 meeting started, Caponi detailed
a new proposal to Parks Superintendent
Ken Vraa and a representative from the
Trust for Public Land, a nonprofit group
that works to protect open space.
The new proposal would have Eagan
buy only a 20-acre parcel south of Diftley
Road, while the other 10 acres would be
sold to Macalester. Under that plan.
Macalester would still receive another 10
acres as a gift from Caponi.
"I feel like we have been negotiating
over several months to buy a minivan
and just as we are about to take delivery
we were offered a Geo Metro." Coun-
cilmember Mike Maguire said.
Caponi has opened the park as a way
to use nature to teach art for more than
30 years. However, it wasn't until 1992
that the park and its Learning Center
were incorporated as a nonprofit- The
Art Park has been a venue for art work-
shops and outdoor performances since
1995.
Caponi said he hopes the newest dis-
cussions with the city will lead to the per-
manent protection of the park.
"I am thinking bigger than just my-
self," he said. "I am not just concerned
about keeping the park open while I am
alive, but forever."
The council met with the Advisory
Parks Commission (APrC) during a spe-
cial meeting June 24 to discuss ways the
city could potentially purchase some of
the park.
CAPON!: To Page 13A
(id(' 3
www.masun.com
Caponi
From Page 2A
While the July 22 meeting was to be a
continuation of that discussion. with the
commissioners reporting back on sever-
al areas the council asked them to re-
view, that fell by the wayside when the
new proposal was revealed.
At the start of the meeting APrC
Chairperson Terry Davis outlined the
work that led the commission to recom-
mend using $200,000 set aside in the
city's Capital Improvement Plan to buy a
portion of a 10-acre parcel north of Dif
fley Road abutting Patrick Eagan Park.
The proposal would have the city
using the $200,000 from the CIP toward
the 20-acre parcel and then working with
the TPL to raise the remaining $800,000
in grants to pay for the parcel.
"While it's not contiguous to Patrick
Eagan Park, it is contiguous to other city
park land at the Lexington-Ditiley ball
fields to the east," Vraa said. "It would
still be a 60-acre parcel that's been pre-
served and identified for park purposes."
Vraa said Caponi made the change in
the offer because he sensed the city was
not going to be able to raise the funds nec-
essary to buy the whole 30 acres as pre-
sented in his previous offer. Those 30 acres
are valued at $1.75 million, Vraa said.
"This is much, much different than
anything we've talked about," Mayor Pat
Geagan said. "I feel like I'm not even in
the same meeting. I feel like I am in the
wrong room."
The council members took a short
break and after returning, Geagan pro-
posed that the discussion be tabled until
more could be learned about the new
offer
However. Councilmember Peggy Carl-
son said it was time for the city to make
its own offer.
"We can talk about our options over
and over again and go around and
around," Carlson said. "We could keep
talking, but 1 think we need to make a
proposal of our own and see if it is re-
fused. I am not willing to consider this
new option at this time."
Carlson proposed that the council
wait until there was a firm agreement on
the part of Macalester to buy the 10-acre
northern parcel before discussing the
new proposal. If that sale comes
through, then the city could discuss buy-
ing the 20-acre parcel alone. she said.
"If that falls through, we would be
right back here discussing the original
proposal," Carison said.
End of the
trail for
Eagan ranch
Diamond T riding stable sold
to developers, will be used for
housing development
BY JOSHUA NICHOLS
Sun Newspapers
Before too long the dust kicked
up at what is now Diamond T
Ranch in Eagan will not be com-
ing from horses, but from the
horsepower of heavy machinery
clearing the way for houses.
"We wanted to go out on top,"
said Carol Thomas, owner of the
ranch. "Diamond T was experi-
encing a great summer, but com-
bined with the downturn in
tourism and the seasonal busi-
ness, it was just time to sell."
Thomas sold the land to Min-
netonka -based Platinum Proper-
ties Group Inc. Although no one at
the company could be reached for
comment, Thomas said the land
would be used for houses.
The land is zoned agricultural,
but Eagan's comprehensive guide
plan designates the area as low -
density residential.
Because a horseback riding at-
traction is a cyclical business that
wouldn't bounce back for eight to
10 years, the property was sold,
Thomas said. The last trail rides
will leave the riding stable Sun-
day, Oct. 5.
We could afford to hold in
there for a couple of bad years, but
after some time, it will start af-
fecting the quality of the product
you can offer," Thomas said. 'At
times it felt like running this busi-
ness was like running up hill."
The nearly 40-acre facility is
near Lebanon Hills Regional
Park, off Pilot Knob Road south of
Cliff, Road.
Thomas said that there have al-
ways been offers from developers
interested in the land, but for the
most part those offers were re-
buffed.
However, after her husband.
Jerry Thomas, died in 1999. the of-
fers started sounding better, she
said.
Sane_ o-freAf
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"We have all sorts of stuff' for the
kids and it's basiEally a big block
party. There are tons of things to do
and it's a lot of fun."
The party will include a DJ playing
children's music. games, putt -putt
golf, grilled food and more, Schilling
said. Nearly everybody in the neigh-
borhood pitches in, with families
with last names ending in A through
K bringing salads and the rest of the
families bringing desserts.
"Just about everybody pitches in
and it's a great time for everybody,"
she said. "It's a great neighborhood
with some great people."
Schilling, who has lived in the
neighborhood for about four years,
said her neighborhood has been hav-
ing block parties on National Night
Out for years, but this is the first time
she has headed up the effort. She said
that she told some neighbors she
would help out and ended up coordi-
nating the event. But the effort put
into it will be well worth it, she said.
"It really helps develop a sense of
community," she said. "We have the
Police Department and the Fire De-
partment come out and the kids get to
learn a little bit about the police and
fire. It's good for all the neighbors to
get to know each other so that they
can watch out for each other"
And that's the whole idea behind
National Night Out.
The event, which runs from 5 to 9
p.m., serves as a celebration and as a
crime prevention tool by building
community spirit. Anyone in Eagan
can participate and many neighbor-
hoods take part by having special
events such as block parties, cook-
outs, visits from police, fire and other
city departments, and contests.
Eagan will be host for parties for
both the Wescott Commons and the
Quarry Park neighborhoods. The
Eagan Parks and Recreation Depart-
ment already does play activities in
those high density neighborhoods
throughout the summer and helps
with the National Night Out activities
in those neighborhoods as well., said
Colleen Callahan, Eagan's youth de-
velopment coordinator.
"We've been active in developing
activities in those areas for some
years now," Callahan said. "We have
recreational staff that do games out
there, like tug-of-war and stuff so we
are doing some of that and things like
face painting for the event"
The city is also providing a DJ to
provide music for an hour at each of
the parties and will also have visits
from the police and fire departments,
Callahan said.
The city also provides some food
for the event although the neighbors
and management at Wescott Com-
mons does the cooking.
Mary Beth Plaschko is coordinat-
ing the National Night Out effort on
Hamilton Drive. Although the neigh-
borhood didn't have a block party last
year, see saw the opportunity to start
a new tradition this year.
"They had a block party up the
street the last few years," Plaschko
said. "I saw the information about Na-
tional. Night Out in the city's newslet-
ter and thought I would like to give it
a try, so here I am."
Hamilton Drive is a horseshoe
shaped street in southeastern Eagan
with Jefferson Lane going down the
middle of it. Plaschko said they dis-
tributed fliers about the party to
about 80 homes on the street and ex-
pect a big showing for the party.
"We've invited everybody and it
should be a lot of fun," Plaschko said.
"We'll have games, face painting, food
and maybe some water balloons and a
visit from a fire truck."
The importance of an event such
as National Night Out is the commu-
nity it develops between neighbors,
she said.
"It's all about getting to know your
neighbors and having fun at the same
time," Plaschko said. "In this neigh-
borhood we have a lot of young kids,
and it's not only important for all the
adults to get to know each other, but
also for the kids to know who's in your
neighborhood."
- •.
SIN rt 'A.rre n- TI tAr5daii ) Tvtli 31) acto3
Eagan reviews firearm policy
BY JOSHUA NICHOLS
Sun A potential policy prohibiting em-
ployees from carrying firearms on city
property was reviewed by the Eagan City
Council at its July 22 special meeting.
The policy was drafted after City Ad-
ministrator Tom Hedges and Coun-
cilmember Mike Maguire attended the
League of Minnesota Cities conference
in St. Cloud last month.
One presentation during the confer-
ence covered what the LMC policies are
and what other cities are doing since the
state Legislature passed the new conceal
and carry law last session, Hedges said.
The new law loosened requirements
for who can obtain a conceal and carry
permit, while requiring more training. It
also prevents local government units
from prohibiting permit -holders from
carrying firearms onto their property.
The policy would prohibit employees
from bringing firearms into city offices
or on to city grounds. It would also spell
out a restriction regarding the place-
ment of firearms in personal vehicles
used while on city business.
The suggested policy required that
employees remove any firearms from
their vehicles or place them in a locked
gun case in their trunk. However, the
council debated how far the city could go
in dictating what employees do with
their personal property
"Can we actually tell a person that
they have to lock their car?" Maguire
asked. "I'm wondering about the en-
forceability regarding regulating an em-
ployee's use of their personal vehicle.
How can we enforce something like that
just because a person is fortunate
enough to work for the city?"
Hedges said the issue of employees
bringing firearms to work in their vehi-
cles isn't that much of a concern except
during hunting season.
"We could have an employee who is a
deer hunter and they drive their car to
work on a Friday, planning to go hunting,
for the weekend directly from work,"
Hedges said. "So they might have the
rifle in their vehicle and then attend a
meeting on behalf of the city in St.
Paul."
Maguire said another issue that needs
to be discussed with city employees is
how to handle instances of weapons on
city property. Mayor Pat Geagan said
that employees are instructed to contact
the Police Department if they have any
reservations about someone who is car-
rying a gun on city property.
"The safety of our employees is para-
mount," Geagan said. "I would rather
err on the side of safety I think the police
should handle it. They have lots of train-
ing on the issue."
Hedges said that the city did some ad-
ditional training with employees to ex-
plain the changes in the conceal and
carry law and what to do if they have
concerns about someone carrying a gun.
He said that employees working at Cas-
cade Bay had additional training on the
issue.
"The main thing they were told is that
if they have any concerns, to call the po-
lice," Hedges said.
Maguire said his main concern in re-
viewing the potential policy was to en-
sure that it is a policy that can be en-
forced by the city.
"If we are going to adopt a policy we
want it to be enforceable." Maguire said.
"Because if it's not enforceable, you are
going to open the city up to liability. I
don't want to put the city in that posi-
tion."
Hedges said the policy would be sent
out to city employees so that they can re-
view it and offer any suggestions for
changes. The policy is scheduled to come
back before the council for formal action
during its Mondays Aug. 4, meeting, he
said.
Horse ranch hits end of trail
Diamond T is metro area's last horse rental business
BY MARA H. GOTTFRIED
Pioneer Press
Developers tried to persuade Carol
Thomas and her husband to sell their
ranch in Eagan for years.
After all, the Diamond T Ranch sits
on roughly 40 acres of prime real
estate in a city that's appealing to
developers but has little open land left.
Thomas resisted, until now. Her
husband. known as perhaps the
world's most famous John Wayne
look -alike, died in 1999. And with the
ranch not doing as well financially, she
decided to selL
In October, the ranch — which a
local expert says is the last in the Twin
Cities suburbs to rent horses — will
stop operating. And down the line,
where there once were some 300
horses, there will likely be houses.
END OF THE TRAIL. 4A
t F a
Vol 155, No 89 ■ 9 sections. % pages 1 02003 St. Paul Noneer Press (Northwest Publications) +
FROM PAGE 1A
ST. PAUL PIONEER PRESS
PIONEER PRESS FILE PHOTO
Carol Thomas, owner of the Diamond T ranch in Eagan, decided to sell the land to developers.
Diamond T is the only place in the metro area that rents horses to ride.
End of the trail
(continued)
When the landmark is gone,
it will be a loss to the fabric of
the community, said Tom
Hedges, Eagan's city adminis-
trator.
"Eagan has had a flavor of
being rural, with farms, corn
fields and gravel roads, but they
all disappeared over time." he
said. "And the Diamond T
Ranch was one of those kinds of
things, where you could go and
still ride horses in an urban
metro area."
About 30 years ago, Carol
and Jerry "The Duke" Thomas
had 26 horses for their family of
four. People were always stop
ping to ask if they could ride
them. which gave them the idea
to start the Diamond T Ranch
Inc. and Riding Stable, near Dif-
fley and Blackhawk roads.
"It's kind of grown with the
city, if you will," Carol Thomas
said on Friday. "We started real-
ly small and then decided to get
into it big time."
They moved to their current
location, on Pilot Knob Road
adjacent to Lebanon Hills
Regional Park, in 1981. It was
always a family -run business,
with the Thomas children also
involved. Thomas said.
The ranch was popular local-
ly, and it was also promoted
heavily as a tourist destination
by the Eagan Convention and
Visitors Bureau. It drew visitors
from as far away as China,
Thomas said.
Jerry Thomas received fame
for his striking resemblance to
John Wayne. He acted as John
Wayne in movie parts. was pho-
tographed with stars and
opened at
rodeos. He led
the U.S. Mar-
shals in the
inaugural
parade for the
First President
George Bush.
BeingJerry approached by
Thomas developers has
"always been
one of those factors when you
have a sizable amount of prop-
erty in a city like this," Carol
Thomas said. "l never wanted to
talk about it with them at all."
But when Jerry Thomas
died, Carol began seeing that
the ranch was getting "to be a
bigger and bigger job." A larger
factor, though. was economics,
she said.
"It's a very spendy operation,
very labor orientated," Thomas
said "We don't have enough
volume to make it profitable."
So last week, Thomas agreed
to sell the property to the Min-
netonka -based Platinum Prop.
erties Group Inc. No one at the
company could be reached for
comment Friday.
1 oiflleY Rd
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EAGAN
µ repn Rd•
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DAKOTA
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N 1 MILE i Diamond T Ranch
PIONEER PRES!
Thomas didn't disclose the
selling price for the land but a
developer familiar with the area
said land values in Eagan tend
to be $60,000 to $75,000 per acre.
Don Patton, senior vice presi-
dent of D.R Horton, said the
Diamond T ranch is "a beautiful
site, but a challenging site" to
develop because there are
extremes in topography and it
has many trees.
The land is zoned agricultur-
al, but the comprehensive guide
plan designates the area as low -
density residential.
The ranch has hoarded and
leased horses, along with offer-
ing lessons, day camps and
horse-drawn hay and sleigh
rides. Horses there also have
been used for commercials and
plays. Thomas said. A popular
activity has been renting horses
to ride the trails of Lebanon
Hills Regional Park.
According to a Minnesota
Horse Council official, there are
no other places in the Twin
Cities suburbs that rent horses.
There are other ranches around
that offer lessons, board horse
or lease them, said Sue McDo-
nough, chairwoman of the coun-
cil's certified stable program.
Not having a place to rent
horses will be "too had because
for some people that's all they
+._ would like to do," she said.
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7Ibe last day for riding at the
-Diamond T will be Oct. 5,
Thomas said. At the end of
October, she will auction off the
horses.
Jerry Thomas' John Wayne
memorabilia and pictures, a
mainstay in the ranch's saloon,
also will go.
The family will keep some of
the memorabilia, but "there's so
much you'd have to have a
museum to keep the rest,"
Thomas said. Much of it will be
auctioned off
Thomas will keep her per-
sonal horses, but she has no
plans to remain in the business
elsewhere. She has a home in
Florida, where she intends to
spend more time.
"1'm comfortable with the
fact that it looks like it will be a
pleasing development for the
city," Thomas said. "Obviously,
I'd prefer to keep it a ranch_ It's
a loss personally and it wasn't a
decision that was lightly made,
but it's the time to do this."
SPORTS
AAU comes
to town
PACE 23A
New policy
prohibits
employees'
firearms
Vote takes place after much
study, discussion
BY JOSE[UA NICHOLS
Sun Nowapapeo
The Eagan City Council ap-
proved a policy prohibiting city
employees from bringing
firearms to work during its Aug. 4
meeting.
3
The council had previously dis-
cussed a draft of the policy during
a special meeting July 22. Follow-
ing that meeting, the policy was
reviewed by city staff and fire-
fighters.
The policy prohibits employees
from bringing firearms into city
offices or onto city grounds. It also
spells out a restriction regarding
the placement of firearms in per-
sonal vehicles used while on city
business.
Administrative staff received
feedback from three employees on
the policy, said City Administra-
tor Tom Hedges. One person ex-
pressed support for the policy and
two employees had questions on
how to conform to requirements
concerning locking firearms in
trunks of personal vehicles whole
on city business.
POLICY: To Page 20A
Apple Valley;Rosemount, Eagan Sun'CumntmThursday, Aug. 7. 2003
Policy
From Page I A
Hedges said language covering the
trunk requirements was taken directly
from a state law concerning transport-
ing firearms and that the requirement
only applies to use of a personal vehicle
while on city business.
The policy states that the city will also
appoint only volunteers, including advi-
sory commission members, who have
signed an agreement stating they will
not carry firearms while conducting vol-
unteer work on behalf of the city.
The policy was drafted after Hedges
and Councilmember Mike Maguire at-
tended the League of Minnesota Cities
conference in St. Cloud earlier this sum-
mer.
Before bringing the policy back before
the council for approval, staff also
looked into enforceability issues sur-
rounding the policy. They found that vol-
unteer firefighters may be included in
the policy and that the policy's provi-
sions are legally enforceable under the
policy itself as well as under state laws
and OSHA regulations. Hedges said.
More than 80 percent of metropolitan
cities surveyed by the city said they ei-
ther have an existing policy covering the
issue, have amended existing policies,
have approved new policies or are in the
process of drafting such policies, Hedges
said.
A newly passed state law loosened re-
quirements for who can obtain a conceal
and carry permit, while requiring more
training. It also prevents local govern-
ment units from prohibiting permit -
holders from carrying firearms onto
their property.
In other business at the meeting:
• The council accepted a project re-
port on the Eagan Greenway Corridor
conducted by the Dakota County Soil and
Water Conservation District.
The Eagan Core Greenway is a swath
of open space stretching from around
Patrick Eagan Park down to Lebanon
Hills Regional Park. The greenway in-
cludes both public and privately owned
land.
The city approved the study, which
built up new data and refined existing
www.mnSun.com
data on property along the corridor. ear-
lier this year.
The information contained in the re-
port will be used by the Advisory Parks
Commission as it continues to study fu-
ture efforts at preserving the open space
making up the greenway
EAGAN
City employees may not bring guns to work
In the wake of the state's new
handgun law, the Eagan City
Council unanimously approved
on Monday a policy to prohibit
city employees from bringing
guns to work.
Cities throughout Minnesota
have begun reviewing the ques-
tion of whether city employees
can carry guns to work, the
League of Minnesota Cities
reports. But Eagan appears to
be among the first cities to
enact a formal policy on the
issue, since the law took effect
this summer.
The policy discussions are a
reaction to the new law, which
makes it easier for people to
obtain a concealed -weapon per-
mit and prevents most local gov-
ernments from banning
weapons on public property
Eagan's new policy says that
city employees, excluding police
officers, cannot have a firearm
in city buildings, on city proper-
ty or inside a city -owned vehicle.
It permits employees to bring
firearms into city -owned park-
ing lots, providing they're
placed out of sight in the
employee's vehicle and the vehi-
cle is secured. But the policy
goes on to say that if employees
use their personal vehicle for
city business, they must remove
firearms from the vehicle, or the
firearm must be unloaded, put
in a case and placed in the
closed trunk.
— Mara II. Gottfried
Thisisygftlate
www. t h i swee k- o n h ne. cam
Runway to impact southern cities
by l tiara Adelnrann
By the end of 2005, a new
north/south runway at the
Minneapolis/St. Paul
International Airport is anticipat-
ed to begin directing air traffic
over the county's southern cities
including Burnsville and Apple
Valley.
"People that are selling [real
estate] in Apple Valley,
Burnsville and Savage will prob-
ably want to take a look at what
that flight pattern is." said Mike
Heinzerling, president of the
Southern Twin Cities
Association of Realtors.
According to Scott
Skramstad, noise programs spe-
cialist with the Metropolitan
Airports Commission (MAC).
flights taking off from the
north/south runway will general-
ly follow the Minnesota River.
traveling southwest.
He said 37 percent of all
yearly departures and 17 percent
of all annual arrivals will he
using the new runway; based on
2005 projections. about 417
arrivals and departures will use
the runway daily.
However, Skramstad said that
revised estimates regarding five-
year air traffic counts will be
released by MAC later this
month,
"Air traffic hasn't picked up
to pre-9/ I 1 levels:' Skramstad
said. "2000 was our busiest year,
but now it's getting close. The
forecasts are still out there that to
meet the long-term demand, it's
necessary to expand the airport."
According to the city of
Apple Valley, aircraft currently
pass over the city at altitudes of
5,000 feet and greater, but MAC
estimates that at the city's north-
ern border, aircraft arrivals will
be approximately 1,500 to 3,000
feet from the ground.
And at County Road 46 and
flagstaff Avenue. planes will
have an altitude of about 2,000
to 4.500 feet in the air.
Departure levels are not yet
available from MAC, but at least
10 possible flight courses are
identified that go over the south-
ern cities area.
Residents in Bloomington
and Richfield have had to deal
with airport noise for years, but
relatively undisturbed quiet in
southern areas could be disrupt-
ful, but may not negatively
impact home sales. said
Hei nzerl ing.
"Everything in relation to
buying, whether they buy in
Richfield or Burnsville/Apple
Valley. it all relates to where they
want to be located and what
community they want to live in,"
he said.
And real estate agents active
in the Richfield area agreed say-
ing airport noise hasn't
decreased home values or nega-
tively impacted their ability to
sell homes in the area.
However, Heinzerling cau-
tioned that real estate agents
should be disclosing the runway
The Minneapolis/St. Paul Airport's new north/south air'.trip Is
currently under construction.
to potential buyers.
"As a realtor,l want my buyer
to know that runway could affect
their peaceful area once it opens
up:' said Heinzerling.
"People who live in Apple
Valley and Burnsville. that's not
quite as normal for them, so it's
just a matter of getting used to
it:" said Heinzerling.
More information and maps
are available on the Web site
www.macnoise.com
Laura Adebnann is ar
dceditor@fronn:ierner. rter.
First senior housing co-op south of the river opens
by jobn Suransky
1 H1s%1.1 A NI a .l'\1't k.
The Gramercy Club of
1
0 28 August 2. 2003 THISWEEK
#1 Real Estate Team South of lb
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Diamond T Ranch will close its
doors, make way for housing
Troubled economy helped prompt sale of decades -old ranch
by Erb:Johnson
TAWS F.E1.; %FA 1Pi19kti
On Oct_ 5. Diamond T Ranch
will conduct its last trail ride
before closing its doors to make
way for a new housing develop-
ment.
It will be a wistful moment for
owner Carol Thomas, who has
watched over the ranch for
almost three decades.
Thomas said there were many
factors that made her decide to
sell the ranch, but the wounded
economy was the biggest_
As you can see with a lot of
other businesses, there has been a
major downturn and depressed
market" Thomas said. "You can
survive a couple of years when
you're hit with it. hut then you
look at it and realize there's not
going to he a quick fix"
Diamond T Ranch has teen a
Riders enjoy the last of `happy trails' at Diamond
their horses drink up for the ride.
popular destination since Thomas ranch moved to its location at
and her husband. Jerry, estab- 4889 Pilot Knob Road in 1980.
fished it in Eagan in 1972. The The couple owned several horses
T Ranch as
at the time and decided to open a
ranch where everybody could
ride.
"It was Jetry's dream. We had
a lot of horses. so it started out as
a 'what if. she said. "People
would always stop and say, 'Can
we ride your horses?' because
there was nothing available"
Diamond _ T Ranch soon
became the spot to host corpo-
rate events and picnics, family
gatherings and youth groups. It
offered hay rides. trail rides.
horse camp, hoarding and private
lessons. But in the aftermath of
Sept_ 11, much of that business
dried up. she said.
"A lot of our business was cor-
porate, and that takes a huge
chunk out. she said.
Thomas said that site not only
saw corporate business slow
See Ranch. 5A
2A August 2, 2003 THISWEEK c
1 - Dealershipr Coming Summer/Fail 200
1 - Owner
Youil Notice the Difference
John
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Ranch/from 1A
down, but also business from
schools in St. Paul and the north-
ern suburbs that were hooked but
cancelled at the last minute
because they didn't have buses.
"Corporate was a major Toss,
but everything contributes:. she
said. "Even the private sector had
less money to spend. It is an
expensive thing to do with your
family. Instead of once a month,
they might do it once a summer
or not at all.
It wasn't any single thing. but
the economic part was a big fac-
tor„
In addition to the economic
downturn, Thomas said she has
been spending less and Tess time
at the ranch since Jeny's death
four years ago. Her children have
taken over the operation. she said,
but she has felt Jerry's absence.
"When you don't have that
rock, no matter how much other
people try to help. it's just not the
same." she said.
Thomas said she and her fam-
ily watched Eagan grow up
:wound them over the years, and
watched as housing develop-
ments encroached on two sides of
their property.
"We've seen a lot of changes:"
she said. "We have very much
enjoyed being part of Eagan's
development. 1 know it sounds
cliched, hut unfortunately, things
do change"
The almost 40-acre property
that houses Diamond T has been
desirable to developers for years,
she said. She initially sought to
preserve the land through the
Dakota County Farmland and
Natural Areas Protection Plan.
but it just didn't work out, she
said.
"We looked into it but were
pretty certain it probably would
not go that way. It appeared this
was not going to be the kind of
property that was to their opti-
mum advantage." she said. "But
it took the heat off the develop-
ment push for a while while we
explored the idea.'
Dakota County Planning
Director Lynn Morataka said the
county was surprised when it
heard Diamond T Ranch was
closing. She said her office never
received inquiries from Thomas,
so she's not sure to whom she
might have spoken about the
plan.
"We were surprised when we
heard they were closing because
they're right next to Lebanon
Hills Regional Park. so obviously
we're very interested in property
adjacent to the park." she said.
Moratzka admits the program
is still getting off its feet, and up
to this point has focused on the
acquisition of farmland, so tim-
ing may have been an issue for
Thomas, she said.
"We haven't started the natu-
ral area applications yet, she said.
"Next week we'll ask the (Dakota
County) Board to open the natu-
ral area funding round "
That should begin in the fall,
she said.
Thomas ultimately decided to
sell the property to Platinum
Development. a development
company that builds housing.
No official plans for the prop-
erty have come through the city
yet. but Thomas said Platinum
1a
makes "lovely" homes and plans
to do so in place of the ranch.
"It would be better if it could
be a ranch, hut in reality at least
it's a plan I can be proud of," she
said.
The loss of Diamond T erases
some of Eagan's history as a rural
area, said Eagan City
Administrator Tom Hedges.
"Eagan has had a flavor of
being- rural, with farms, corn
fields and gravel roads, but they
all disappeared over time." he
said. "And the Diamond T Ranch
was one of those kinds of things,
where you could go and still ride
horses in an urban rnetro area."
Thomas recently bought a
house in Florida and has found
herself traveling hack and forth
over the past several months. She
plans to spend a lot more time
there in the near future. she said,
satisfying her passion for golf.
"I've worked for a long, long
time and I think now I want to
play," she said. "But I'll always
have ties here. I'll be wearing a
path back and forth."
But she won't give up her
other passion completely.
Thomas will still keep two horses
at her daughter's house to ride
when she visits. she said.
"I can't imagine not having a
horse." she said.
When Eagan Police Chief
Kent Therkelsen first heard about
Diamond T closing, he said his
first thought was, "Who will
catch all the loose horses in
Eagan?.,
In 2001, Thomas was given a
commendation award for her role
in helping the Eagan Police
Department round up stray hors-
es, cows and other large animals
that had gotten loose. She spent
years volunteenng her time, hors-
es and equipment to the police
department, often getting calls in
the middle of the night or at 5
a.m. when a horse or other larg
wellness spa
THISWEEK August 2, 2003 SA
animal was spotted wandering
around.
"Carol's been just a great citi-
zen." Therkelsen said. "Jerry
passed away before I got here, but
Carol has been just a great friend
of the police department and the
city, lt's probably good for her
that it's time to sell and she got a
buyer. but it's definitely a one -of -
a -kind business and we'll miss
it.
While nobody is more impact-
ed than Thomas by the sale of the
ranch, she said she is content with
the choices she's made.
"I do feel it was a good deci-
sion, but obviously it's very emo-
tional on many levels. because
it's not just my job, it's my life."
she said, "This brings enormous
changes for everybody. This has
always been our little tuck_ We've
watched the city grow up around
us. 1t will he sad to rn►t..tie pan of
e continuatiow.."-
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Meanwhile. those who board
their horses at Diamond T need
to find alternate accommoda-
tions.
Beth McDonald, an Eagan
resident, hoards her two horses at
Diamond T and lives in the same
neighborhood as the ranch. She
found a new stable in Hastings at
which to board her horse, but said
it will not be the same as
Diamond T.
"It is really sad. It made the
neighborhood feel sort of country
out here. You can ride on those
trails and be in the middle of
nowhere:" she said. "I could liter-
.d1y walk over there and be in a
completely different place. The
whole neighborhoxxl is really sad
shoat it:'
The ranch was more than a
place to ride horses, she said.
"It's a social center for horse
people. The kids could ride and
then have lunch in the barn:" she
said.
McDonald said she's disap-
pointed at the lack of stables
offering trail rides in the area.
"That's why we bought a
horse. 1 went on a trail ride and
thought, 'How hard could it be?'"
she said. "We wouldn't have
bought a horse if we hadn't gone
-
on a trail ride. How else are chil-
dren going to be exposed to
that?"
McDonald initially leased a
horse from Diamond T and even-
tually bought her own. The peo-
ple at the ranch helped her
throughout the process of buying
a horse. she said.
"'They've been so awesome to
us. the people that work there.
They answer questions, give
advice, offer to help. They went
way out of their way," she said.
"They made it so much easier for
us to learn and make mistakes.
That's what I'll miss the most:"
The ranch officially closes
Oct. 5, however an auction will
he held Oct. 25 and 26 to sell
about 100 horses as well as tack
and equipment.
Thomas said she will not per-
sonally attend the auction.
"Hach one of those horses is
like a family member:" she said.
Although she could choose to
be sad during this enormous
change, she said she is choosing
instead to stay positive.
"ITte cup is always half full.
That's how we're looking at IC
she said. "My heart will always
be here "
Erin Johnson is at
eagamthisweek@ean-inc.com.
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Hitching a ride J 77/
Local children attending Safety Camp climb into the back of a snow plow truck while visiting
the city of Eagan's Public Works Department safety station at Trapp Farm Park. Children
rotated to different stations throughout the day.
National Night Out will bring record
number of Eagan neighbors together
by Erin Johnson
nols%EtK NFV.SPAPFRs
About 80 neighborhood
gatherings are scheduled in
Eagan for National Night Out
on Tuesday, Aug. 5, which is a
new city record, said Eagan
Police Chief Kent Therkelsen.
"In five years we've gone
from 20-some gatherings to
more than 80, which is our
record," he said.
National Night Out has been
a national event since 1984;
Eagan began celebrating it in
1998.
From 6 to 9:30 p.m., neigh-
bors meet in the street and
spend the evening socializing
and celebrating. Neighborhoods that regis-
The purpose. Therkelsen tered with the Eagan Police
said, is "to give people the Department before July 18 can
excuse to get together and expect a squad car. fire truck,
establish a face-to-face relation- street plow or even city council
ship with their neighbors, member to make an appearance
which we think is so important at their gathering. r
in crime prevention and, of It's not too late to register,
course. in homeland security." however, but it probably is too
Knowing your neighbors late to secure a visit from a city
makes you more likely to notice official, he said.
if something is out of the ordi- The police department gets
nary. which is a big part of "tremendous" help from the
crime prevention, he said. Parks Department, the Public
"Good neighbors are one of Work, Department and the Fire
the best defenses against Department during these gath-
crime," he said. "They're the erings, he said.
ones most likely to realize when `"lire Public Works and Fire
things are out of place or if departments have equipment on
there's a problem" Sec NNO, 3A
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for 2001!
NNO/from 1A
the road. and of course everybody
wants to see the K-9 and motor-
cycles. It's a challenge for our
officers to get there, say hi. and
get to the next one." he said.
NNO is also supported by the
Eagan Citizens Crime prevention
Association and the Eagan
Healthy Community Initiative.
which help publicize the event
and provide informational hand-
outs.
They give us fools we could
not budget for, " he said.
Therkelsen said NNO is a nice
way to get communication flow-
ing between residents and ofli
cers about neighhorhood issues.
"It's nice to chat with people
when it's not in response to
something bad that happened. We
get to hear a lot about what pen
ple have on their minds. like traf-
fic problems and loud stereos." he
said. "We really look forward to
it. It's one of the highlights of our
year as far as fun stuff we get to
It also highlights for officers
the broad range of people within
the community, he said.
"What I like about it is that
you might stop at an apartment
building having a gathering. and
your next stop might be at a
neighbohood of $750,000 hous-
es. It really illustrates that Eagan
has a kx of diversity in terms of
housing and lifestyle. It's a real
eye-opener." he said.
Fred Tremper is one of sever-
al Klock captains in his Eagan
neighborhood that has helped
organize an NNO celebration for
the past four years.
His neighhorhood's event
brings together "almost every-
one;' he said. which includes
adults and children from about 14
different houses. They eat, drink.
socialize and hang out by the
bonfire. he said, in addition to
receiving visits from the Eagan
Police and Fire departments.
Tremper said NNO is a good
r
way to get to know your neigh-
bors as well as to get your neigh-
borhood issues heard by police
officers.
"It definitely createii aware-
ness amongst neighborhoods," he
said. 'And if a neighbor voices an
opinion. they see feedback com-
ing back and they see the system
does work. It opens the line of
communication between resi-
dents and the police department"
He said he is a firm believer of
the effectiveness of NNO. as evi-
denced by an experience the
neighborhood had at last year's
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"We had our food, our drinks
and a bonfire going. A house
across the street was for sale. and
the new people saw what was
going on and purchased the
house because of that," he said.
'They saw the activity of the
neighborhood pulling together
and it added to their reasons for
purchasing the house. What bet-
ter pnx)f could you haver'
Erin Johnson is at
etg(rn.thisweek(�e(-m-irrc. tom.
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4A August 2, 2003 THISWEEK e,
Opinion
Pay attention
and drive
by Erin Johnson
TNISWEEK NEWSP.APF.RS
On a recent Saturday morning I found myself inside a Minnesota
State Patrol squad car, zooming down the highway at 110 miles an
hour through traffic. Luckily. I was in the front seat, not the back, and
I was there by way of invitation, not punishment.
1 was offered the opportunity to ride along with a Minnesota state
trooper during his shift, and it was a real eye-opener, to say the least.
Nut only did it enlighten me as to what these troopers actually go
through in a typical day, but it also offered a unique perspective into
the drivers around us.
And it ain't pretty.
At the beginning of our shift, four squad cars sat side -by -side on a
gassy knoll beside the highway. One trooper ran radar while the oth-
ers pulled the targets over. It was like shooting fish in a barrel.
Within minutes, three cars were pulled over going in excess of 77
Hiles an hour in a 55 mile -per -hour zone.
Time after time. the drivers used as their excuse. "I just wasn't pay-
ing attention"
Call me crazy, but it seems to me that not paying attention on a
highway filled with other drivers who aren't paying attention while
going 22 miles per hour over the speed limit could cause a few prob-
lems.
Some drivers were apologetic. some downright defiant, but all
admitted they were inattentive. One, in fact, was so inattentive that he
came within an inch of hitting the side of the squad car while entering
the highway. He was on his cell phone.
Another admitted he hadn't even noticed there was a squad car
behind hum because he was twine to ter directions to a party. Hmm.
Y 21101 Raehester Mst-riraratir. Ca. L.L.C.
Ed Fischer Srwiktts
filcher it po.IboMeila sera
n "wow
Leiters
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 20. 2003
$ 51
SOUTH SUBURBAN
EAGAN
Commissioner resigns
in wake of altercation
Ron Miller quits before City Council acts
BY MARA H. GOTTFRIED
Pioneer Press
An Eagan Planning Com-
mission member accused of
punching and throwing dirt at
a man working near his home
resigned his post Tuesday at a
City Council meeting.
The council was scheduled
to decide Ron A. Miller's fate
on the commission. but Miller
made his statement first.
Miller has had a seven-year,
dispute over noise and diesel
fumes with Johnson's Rich-
field Blacktop on Minnesota
13. It came to a head in June,
when Miller received a cita-
tion for fifth -degree assault
and a notice for trespassing,
after an alleged altercation at
the business.
The City Council had
authorized a review of Miller's
conduct, and an administra-
tive hearing was held two
weeks ago- A hearing officer
concluded that Miller's behav-
ior was inappropriate for a
public official and that he
could be removed from his
role.
A hearing officer
concluded that
Miller's behavior
was inappropriate for
a public official
The council had three
options — not imposing any
sanction, suspending Miller
from the commission or
removing him. After Miller
announced his resignation.
the council unanimously
accepted it.
"This is very sad for all of
us," said Council Member Meg
Tilley. " ... I feel very bad about
this."
Since the courts have not
decided his fate, Miller said
the administrative hearing
was premature and violated
his right to due process.
On June 28, Miller said he
and his wife were working in
their yard and Richfield Black-
top was operating heavy
equipment, emitting loud
noise and diesel Nunes onto
their property, which is behind
the business. Miller went to
talk to the owner and said he
acted in self-defense when a
man operating heavy machin-
ery "got off the loader and
came at me," Miller said
The employee said Miller
attacked him tint and that
Miller repeatedly told him he
was a planning commission
member. Miller disputes those
accusations. He also said he
never told police he was acting
on city business, which was
alleged in the pekoe report of
the incident.
Miller said it was inappro-
priate for the council to
remove him from the planning
commission.
"(It) will only serve to fur-
ther discredit me and further
damage my reputation," he
said. "... But because this is
such a one-sided approach and
an unseemly rush to judg-
ment, I have no choice but to
voluntarily submit my resig-
nation ... "I only hope that this
does not send the wrong mes-
sage to anyone, including the
Johnson. 1 did no wrong to
anyone that day. I only acted
in self-defense."
Mara H. Gottfried covers
Eagan, the Metropolitan
Council and suburban growth.
She can be reached at
mgottfried(ai pioneerpress.com
or 651.228.5262.
AUGUST 9. 2003
VOLUME 24, NO 23
Junior tennis
Patty Mraz, a local tennis
teaching pro. has lead the
Apple Valley Aces to the
National Junior Team Tennis
tournament.
See Sports, 21A
Thkpw
Lqqan
www.thisweek-onlrne corn
Huusko leaves post as Eagan
Planning Commission chairman
Iluusko's resignation, Ron Miller investigation shakes up commission
by Erin Johnson
l N11Ml I A \l v.SPAPLIt1
The Eagan City Council
accepted the resignation of
Gary Huusko as chairman of
the Planning Commission
Monday.
Huusko, an attorney. has
accepted a job with the law firm
that represents the city. He said
he resigned from his position on
the commission to avoid a con-
flict of interest.
Huusko will join the law
firm of Severson, Sheldon,
Dougherty and Molenda, P.A.
In his letter of resignation to the
council he wrote that it is with
some regret that he resigns from
the commission, "however,
there now exists a potential for
conflict of interest between my
membership on the commission
and my being a member of the
law firm that provides legal
advice to the commission"
three-year term in January
2002. This was his second term
as a Planning Commission
member.
Council members thanked
Huusko for his work on the
Planning Commission and said
he will be missed.
"I think it's important to rec-
ognize Gary Huusko for being
on the Advisory Planning
Commission as chair," said
Council Member Meg Tilley.
"I'm sorry to see him leave, but
thank you, Gary. -
Mayor Pat Geagan agreed.
"He worked hard at it and 1
know it took and enormous
amount of his time,' he said. "I
want to thank him for every-
thing he's done for the commu-
nity "
Huusko was appointed to a Huusko's departure comes
right on the heels of the city's
investigation into Planning
Commission Member Ron
Miller.
Miller was charged with
fifth -degree assault in June for
allegedly striking and throwing
din at an employee at Richfield
Blacktop Company. Miller
claimed he was on official city
business as a Planning
Commission member at the
time of the alleged assault.
according to the police report.
The city council is awaiting
the findings of City Clerk Maria
Karels, who is serving as the
hearing officer for the investiga-
tion. The council will then
make a determination as to
Miller's position on the
See Planning, SA
2A August 9. 2003 THISWEEK r.
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AV^• Planning Commission,
At Monday's meeting, the
40.P'council approved the appoint-
ment of Paul Leeder to
replace Huusko. Leeder was
appointed an alternate for the
Planning Commission in
January. He will fill Huusko's
vacancy for the remainder of
2003.
The council will now have
to decide on a replacement
alternate, and there was some
disagreement among mem-
bers on how to proceed.
A firm policy on procedure
has never been put into place,
but in the past the council just
went to the library of alternate
names and picked the next on
the list, said City
Administrator Tom Hedges.
Council Member Mike
Maguire said the council has
set a precedent with that pro-
cedure and should adhere to
it.
"We should be consistent
with the precedence we set as
a council," he said.
But Geagan said he thinks
a firm policy needs to be
established before making the
appointment.
"I'm not prepared to go
forward with an appointment
because 1 think there's a num-
ber of circumstances that we
have to address as a council,'
he said. "I really think that all
needs to be in place."
Council Member Peggy
Carlson and Cyndee Fields
agreed with Geagan that a
more concrete process needs
to be put in place.
But Maguire said the coun-
cil should at least follow
precedence on this case and
then discuss the policy.
"I'm fine discussing it fur-
ther, 1 just hope we can do it
as soon as possible." Maguire
said.
Tilley agreed.
"We need to make a policy
when there's not something in
front of us." she said. "We
should deal with this now and
then deal with the policy at
the next workshop."
The council agreed to dis-
cuss both the current alternate
appointment and the general
appointment procedure at its
August 12 work session.
Erin Johnson is at
eagan.thisweek@ecm-
inc. cone.
9 fQ - '- --4'
Eagan bars employees from carrying guns at work
by Erin Johnson
THIsWIA-It Nf:KSP.API kti at includes working
The Eagan City Council
Monday unanimously'
approved a policy that pro-
hibits city employees from
carrying firearms while at
work.
According to the
Minnesota League of Cities,
over 80 percent of metropoli-
tan cities surveyed have either
amended existing policies to
conform to the new conceal
and carry legislation, have
approved new policies or are
currently drafting policies.
"I'm very pleased that we
have a policy in place now
prohibiting firearms. I think
it's very important:' Council
Member Meg Tilley said at the
meeting.
The policy applies to all
city employees. including fire-
fighters. but excludes police
officers_
The policy states that the
carrying or possession of
firearms by any city employee
is prohibited while performing sig
city -related duties with the wi
within The city has never had any
city buildings, while on city problems with employees car -
property or any off -site loca- rying guns to work, Hedges
tiop, and while driving or rid- said, but the new conceal and
- ing in a city -owned vehicle. carry law has raised issues
The policy also states that that many cities have never
any firearms brought onto dealt with.
city -owned parking areas by "We're concerned about the
an employee must be placed safety of our employees and
out of sight in a personal vehi- we want a safe working envi-
cle, and the vehicle must be ronment," he said.
locked. While the new conceal and
That still leaves enough carry law expands the right of
leeway for employees who use permit holders to carry
guns for recreational purpos- weapons, the city is within it's
es, such as hunting, said City rights as an employer to pro -
Administrator Tom Hedges. hibit its employees from
"If 1 was a hunter or a trap- bringing them to work.
shooter and wanted to carry "If you applied for and
my gun unloaded in its case were granted a permit and
and in my trunk, that's per- wanted to bring a gun into
missible," he said. "But 1 can't City Hall, we cannot ban you
leave it in my backseat or in from doing that," he said. "But
my locker." if you come to work for us, we
In addition to employees, can. That's the difference. As
the policy states that the city a public employer, we were
will only appoint volunteers. able to adopt a policy restrict -
including advisory commis- ing it."
sion members, who have
ned an agreement that they
11 not carry firearms while
odnrtin� volunteer work on
Erin Johnson is ur
eagan. thisweek @ ecm
inc. cone.
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Neighborhood watch
Residents of the Donegal Court neighborhood in Eagan got a visit from a firetruck at their
National Night Out celebration Tuesday. Aug. S.
Okk
THISWEEK August 9. 2003 3A
Man gets 30 years for
violent Eagan rape
p
by Eris Johnson About 40 minutes after the
INI%W1-}k %Eu SP&P % Eagan assault, Williams allegedly
Andrew Stephen Williams held a woman at knifepoint in a
U as sentenced July 31 to 30 years Highland Park parking ramp in
in pri}a for the rape of a woman St_ Paul. According to police.
:It her Eagan home last William, was attempting to force
November. the woman into the trunk of his
Judge Robert King gave car when a passerby scared him
Williams the statutory maximum off. Williams was arrested by
sentence, calling him a "patterned Minneapolis police Nov. 10 after
sex offender." Williams, 26, a three-day search.
pleaded guilty in May 2003. Williams was already regis-
According to the complaint, tered as a Level 11 sex offender
Williams, who worked with the and has an extensive criminal his -
victim, appeared at her Eagan res- tory. including convictions for
idence the morning of Nov. 7 and assault and theft, according to the
tsked to use her telephone. Dakota County Attorney's Office.
After he entered her span_ In 1996 he was sentenced to 29
nent, the complaint states, he months in prison and five years of
called out a knife and threatened conditional release for third_
o kill the victim. He then forted degree criminal sexual conduct
ter into her bedroom and sexual- 'This man deserves a lengthy
y assaulted her over a three-hour prison sentence and extensive
eriod, at one point choking the treatment so that no more victims
ictim so she could not breathe. can be terrorized,,, said Dakota
he victim managed to escape County Attorney James
chile Williams was temporarily Back.strom.
istr cied and was helped by the
aartment complex manager as Erin Johnson is at
re waited for police to arrive. eagart.rhiswieekeecm-inc.com.
i'j NKu MIS as & muw.
Council debates process of
filling commission vacancies
Maguire questions politics' of procedure
by F_r in jobusour appointees created annually and with the resignation last month
i it I E.K NEWSPAPERS picked the person who had of Gary Huusko, chairman of
The Eagan City Council dis- received the next highest num- the Planning Commission.
cussed the process of filling ber of votes from the council, Paul feeder, who was next
advisory commission vacancies said City Administrator Tom on this year's list of names. was
at its Aug. 12 workshop, and Hedges. appointed to fill Huusko's seat.
questions were raised about For instance, when there was When it came time to choose an
whether the issue was becom- an opening on the Economic alternate. Council Member
ing political. Development Commission Mike Maguire said that council
The debate centers on the (EDC) in June, the alternate should follow the precedent it
fact that the council has no set was moved up to fill the seat, set. But Council Member Peggy
policy for replacing commis- and the next person on the list, Carlson said the council should
sion members and alternate_ Greg Wilken, was appointed as instead discuss reforming the
In the past, the council an alternate, Hedges said. entire policy on appointments
reviewed Gist of potential But the issue came to a head See Debate, 9A
44.1c ar/i6/a
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before making a decision.
The council agreed to discuss
the matter at the Aug. 12 work-
shop, where Maguire questioned
Carlson's apparent reversal on the
issue. He said he found it odd that
she had suggested going with
precedent in the case of Wilkens
hut was now questioning the pro-
cedure.
"1 was really quite surprised
last week, when 1 proposed doing
what we had typically done in the
past ... that there was resistance to
doing that again," he said. "You
can call it partisan politics ... you
can call it whatever you want to.
but clearly there is some argu-
ment over why we shouldn't do
what we typically have done in
the past."
If the council were to follow
its past policy, the next name on
the list for appointments would
he Elaine Eyre, an affordable
housing advocate who often
butted heads with the previous
council, which included Carlson.
Eyre ran unsuccessfully for
mayor of Eagan in 2002.
Maguire questioned whether
the process was becoming per-
sonal or political.
"If it looks like a duck and
quacks like a duck, other people
need to figure out if it's a duck or
not," Maguire said.
Carlson said she takes issue
with the assertion that she's play-
ing politics_
"We really need to deperson-
alize this who issue," she said. "I
didn't even know who was next
in line."
Carlson said she has been try -
ing to get the policy on commis-
sion appointments reformed for
years. As a former Planning
Commission member. Carlson
said, she didn't like the process
when she went through it and it
still needs to he changed.
"1 have been working on this.
I brought it up as a commission-
er, I brought it up in my first year
on the council: I was met with
huge opposition wanting to
address this," she said. '"Ibis has
been a four- or five-year plight
for me to get some policies and
procedures in place."
Maguire said Wilken's
appointment would have been a
perfect time to revisit the process,
but Carlson didn't bring it up
then.
"From the outside. this looks
to me like there is just something
that doesn't look right" he said.
"If this has been a four-year bat-
tle, then why not bring it up on
June 3 as well?"'
Carlson said that past proce-
dure worked in the Wilken case
because all of the council mem-
bers were in agreement about
appointing him as an alternate.
"If anybody had had a prob-
lem, we would have had to
address the procedure then," she
said.
Carlson said she was also
starting a new business at the
time of the Wilken decision.
"I was really busy. It was not
this vacancy that caused. me to
bring that up again;" she said. "It
was long before this vacancy that
I planted the seed, and what I
don't appreciate is this being
made out to be something that it's
not„
Even though Eyre and the
council have had their differ-
ences. she is a nice person,
Carlson said.
"The question is. who hasn't
bumped heads with the council?
Anybody who gets involved has, -
she said. "It really isn't anything
to do with who's in line. 1f it was
Joe Smith or John Doe, I wanted
this addressed way before we got
into Gary Huusko's departure.
My quest is to get a policy in
place to depersonalize nalize this so it
doesn't look political:'
Eyre said she is skeptical
about the handling of the com-
mission appointments situation.
"I do think politics are being
played in the sense of what hap-
pened with the last opening they
had," she said.
Eyre said that the council typ-
ically appoints the next name on
the list. as they had with Greg
Wilken.
"If they'd followed typical
procedures. I would he on the
Planning Commission," she said.
She does, however. respect
Mayor Pat 6e' agar's decision to
wait to fill the opening until the
council comes up with a plan. she
said.
"I commend him for doing
that," she said. "He was doing
what's best for the city."
Carlson said the issue is
..absolutely not" personal.
"That's the worst thing you
can do when you get into com-
mission appointments. 1 want to
gel policies and procedures in
place to keep it depersonalized
and unpolitical," she said.
1
Carlson said she has wanted to
change the appointment proms
since she was elected to the coun-
cil, but the issue was never "front
burner' enough to raise interest
among other council members.
she said•
"I know what I've wanted to
do for four years," she said. "My
lri
quest goes way beyond teens and
vacancies. It's the application
process. how we inteniew, the
time of year we do this. The ordi-
nance needs to be updated —
policies and procedures, voting
and appointments. -
Three commission members
have resigned in the past three
months, and Ron Miller's future
as a Planning Commission mem-
ber has yet to be decided since a
recent citation for fifth -degree
T149WEEK August 16. 2009 9A
assault.
City staff will work now on
procedural options to present to
the council in October. The coun-
cil will review the options in
October and November. The
open commission seats will
remain vacant until a policy is put
into place.
Erin Johnson is at
eagan. thisweek@'erne-inc. coat
Vraa/from 1A
years some major facilities —
the Civic Arena, Cascade Bay.
the Community Center," he
said. "But the Eagan Core
Greenway is certainly a chal-
lenge to the future of our
department."
Vraa said he thinks of
Eagan's parks as pearls and its
community facilities, such as
Cascade Bay. as jewels.
Holz Farm and Patrick
Eagan Park are two pearls
waiting to be "buffed." he said.
"Patrick Eagan Park has the
potential to be a real asset to
the community. The resource
base in that park is incredible,"
he said. "It has the potential
for more program use. for
more people visiting the park.
There should really be some
type of visitor's center there.
My only regret is that I will
not be here to work on that
particular project "
Vraa said that while he'll
miss the challenges,' he feels
he's leaving the department in
very capable hands.
"I'm not the smartest kid on
the block, but one thing I'm
not dumb about is hiring good
people," he said.
Vraa started at the city
around the same time as City
Administrator Tom Hedges,
Director of Public Works Tom
Colbert and Director of
Administrative Services Gene
Van Overbeke, and he is the
first of the group to retire.
"You put the four of us
together in terms of number of
years and it's about 100 years
of combined service to the
community." he said. "I'm
kind of breaking up the old
gang."
"People who know me
know I'm not going to leave
too many strings dangling."
He said he will spend his
time coaching varsity baseball
at Eagan High School, playing
golf and maybe doing some
consulting.
"I also have a shotgun and
two dogs that don't think I use
them enough," he said.
He and his wife will also
work on finishing up the cabin
they're building in northern
Minnesota.
"We'll be spending a lot
more time up there getting that
completed and enjoying our
free time," he said.
Vraa's announcement left a
teary staff and reflective
administration in its wake.
Mayor Pat Geagan praised
Vraa for his leadership and for
being a team player over the
years.
"1 just can't say enough,"
Mayor Pat Geagan told Vraa.
"You've done a wonderful jab
here."
Council Member Cyndee
Fields said that Vraa has creat-
ed a legacy for Eagan.
"1 admire everything you've
done. and I think Eagan is
what it is today because of
everything you've done. I
thank you and I know the kids
out there thank you." she said.
Hedges said the news
caused him to reflect on their
24 years as an administrative
team.
"It is hard," he said. "1 took
time to think back when we
were all hired and how we
have been able to grow as a
team and an organization and a
EG
community."
Hedges said Vraa's knowl-
edge and experience will be
missed.
But his departure will allow
the city to look at the Parks
and Recreation Department
and decide what kind of leader
it wants for the future, he said.
"The needs of the depart-
ment are different in the next
10 years than in the last 15 or
20," he said. "There will be
different challenges in the
future, and we're going to
need to decide what kind of
person we're looking for."
There are no plans yet to
begin a search to fill Vraa's
position.
"In the near future we'll
certainly want to meet and dis-
cuss how we're going to
approach the vacancy," he
said. "But Ken is still here and
will still be producing at his
end"
Erin Johnson is at
eagan.thisweek@erm-
inc.com.
EG
But proposals to provide
quicker relief from traffic delays,
including reducing the number of
drive accesses onto county roads,
were also discussed as a viable
option.
Drive accesses off county
roads are currently allowed to be
spaced at about one-fourth to
one -eighth mile intervals,
depending on the type of inter-
section.
- The proposal restricts those
access points to between one-half
and one -quarter mule apart,
depending on whether the inter-
section allows for full movement
or right -turn only.
None of the commissioners
spoke against the spacing propos-
al. but Commissioner Kathleen
Gaylord suggested devising vary-
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ing sets of access spacing guide-
lines that would correspond to
traffic volumes.
Under her suggestion, which
staff will research. less -traveled
roads would be allowed more
county road accesses.
Commissioner Mike 'turner, a
long-time member of the 35W
Solutions Alliance Task Force.
said offering alternative driving
routes is the key to working suc-
cessfully with local businesses
concerned about customer access
to their stores.
Removing stop lights from
certain areas of the system was
also suggested as an option to
ease congestion.
"Signals, at a certain point,
tend to start dictating the mobili-
ty rather than how many lanes
you have because you can only
move so many people through a
signalized intersection," said
Kreshach.
The signal at Huntington, in
Savage off of CSAH 42, is being
proposed for removal. and
Kresbach said staff is going to
start looking at options for
removing signal lights in the
CSAH 42 and Cedar Avenue
give preferential treatment to
transit vehicles.
But staff's proposal to build
up heavy -use county roads to 10-
ton standards drew criticism from
Commissioner Joe Harris.
At a cost of $ I million annual-
ly from 2005 through 2025,'
routes that lead to highways.
heavily used by trucks, would be
built thicker to accomnxxtate an
extra ton of weight.
Harris said the county would
he an "island" because surround-
ing roads under city jurisdiction
are being built to a nine -ton stan-
dard.
"I'm not too enthused about
spending another S I million a
year when no one else is. he
said.
However. Commissioner Will
Branning said businesses are
already loading their trucks to
maximum capacity. taking the
risk of geeing stopped at a weigh
station, in response to current
economic pressures.
The pgtential of changing the
jurisdictional responsibility for
county roads was also discussed.
Commissioners will further
review the
Thisweek
c\"
Laqan
www thisweek-online.com
Vraa will retire as director of Eagan
Parks. and Recreation Department
by Erin Johnson
THIS% I kS
Director of Parks and
Recreation Ken Vraa made the
surprise announcement at the
Eagan City Council's Aug. 12
workshop that he will be retir-
ing in the spring.
Vraa has been with the city
for 24 years.
Although he is eligible for
retirement earlier than next
year, Vraa said he wanted to
see through the completion of
the Community Center.
"I didn't want to walk away
from the project that's critical
to the city and has been a part
of my life for three years;" he
said. "I didn't want to leave it
undone"
He said he began thinking
,crinusly about retirement last
r;i u uary.
He will leave his post of 24 vears in spring of 2004
two more years. The last few
years of his life he spent flat
on his back in a nursing
home," he said. "I couldn't
help but think he gave up' two
years of his life when he pould
have used it to enjoy his later
years "
Even though he is looking
forward to retirement. Vraa
said he will miss working for
the city.
"I love my job. 1 probably
have one of the best jobs in the
world. We have a great parks
system and some of the best
people to work with," he said.
Although Vraa has spent
the last two decades watching
Eagan grow and develop.
there is still much to do. he
said.
"We've built in the last five
See Vraa, 5A
Ken Vraa will retire early next year, but his hands will be full in
the meantime with the completion of the Community Center.
"I made a promise to away. His retirement came and
myself when my dad passed went and he kept working for
2A August 16. 2003 THISWEEK
r Coming Summer/Fall 2003
1 - DQalQrshipT 1,
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You'II Notice the Difference
JNDE R (ONST1UJC'I'ION 1111) UC'
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JeneFnedmam; Star Inhale
Commuters can get coffee, have their hair done or drop off dry cleaning at
the Eagan Transit Station. Officials say it's a model for stations yet to come.
Grab t
bus and a
Iatte
By Laurie Blake 03
Star Tribune Staff Writer
The Eagan Transit Station, with 750 parking
spaces catering to suburban commuters, is the
latest mark on the map of expanding suburban
bus service.
As the third station opened by the Minnesota
Valley Transit Authority, which operates inde-
pendently from the regional Metro Transit sys-
tem, its parking ramp and polished waiting area
are familiar. What distinguishes it are the busi-
nesses next door.
The station is part of a small community
shopping center, and its long-term upkeep will
be paid in part by
$44,000 in yearly
lease income
, Eagan
Proposed Transit from a coffee
w' ceaarrale Station shop, dry cleaner,
salon and restau-
r rant. These mer-
Tl
chants also con-
tribute to a com-
mon fund for
day-to-day land-
scaping mainte-
nance and snow
removal.
That was the
plan when the
Transit Authority
bought the land.
But the fact that
the businesses
located there, without government financial in-
centives and with services that commuters
might use, was a free-market miracle, said Bev-
erley Miller, Minnesota Valley's executive direc-
tor.
"We are trying to be a hub of activity. We are
trying to build along the paths of people," she
said of the station. "But the market drives the
site. No subsidies."
This is fitting for the first transit station in the
hometown of Gov. Tim Pawlenty, whose con-
stant refrain about transit is that it must make
economic sense. Lt. Gov. Carol Molnau, who
also serves as state transportation commission-
er, spoke at the grand opening ceremonies for
the station recently to make the point that it will
be a model for stations to come.
St Pad
Pelkineapob
Bumav/e
13a
2 tries
42
STATION conlllwws on B4:
—Some facts about the Minnesota Valley Transit
Authority, which serves Apple Valley,
Burnsville, Eagan, Rosemount and Savage.
Photographs by Juciv Gr esedi c Str Tritwne
The S6. 7 million Eagan Transit Station Is in a small community shopping center that
offers services commuters might use. Suburban residents "want to take the bus, but
you have to make it convenient," said Eagan City Council Member Meg Tilley.
li
th
Commuters th
primarily take n
express buses pa
to downtown
Minneapolis si
and St Paul sal
from the Ea- ter
gan station. me
which Is just vid
off Interstate vic
Hwy. 35E.
FIR
10
0 of the
the legis-
zen sai -
Anderson has a different take. She Why does he want to be cochair- Doug grow is at
noted that there never has been an man? "I pull people together," he said. dgrn++ startribune.com
on sealed till spring
came final Aug. 8. But he took
the administration to court,
saying release of the informa-
tion could prejudice the mili-
tary investigation.
Pawlenty, early
on, called the alle-
gations "very seri-
ous," and in ac-
knowledging An-
dreotti's retire-
ment, pointedly left
out any tributes to
his years of service.
Andreotti's at-
torney, Tom Plun-
Eugene kett, has argued in
had been court that state offi-
utantgen- cials mishandled
5 years be- their investigation,
tired. relying on hearsay
and rumors.
Plunkett also has ques-
tioned the administration's
motives, saying the investiga-
tion was initiated by the wife of
a high-ranking Guardsman
who had been a Pawlenty cam-
paign worker and who claimed
d to have influence with the gov-
al emor. Pawlenty's office has de-
nt nied the allegations.
Andreotti has not spoken
publicly on the reasons for his
of retirement or the investiga-
y tions.
In Wednesday's ruling, Fin -
million shortfall
lu- for 2004 that would for the l l th
g to straight year include no tax-
y- levy increase but possibly an
are increase in service fees.
Smith said Kelly will con -
of tinue to use measures already
city in place through 2004, includ-
n in ing not filling jobs when em-
ibly ployees retire and limiting the
ear. use of the city's fund balance.
more which is basically its savings
ipate account.
l told "We don't want to overuse it
ve to next year so there won't be any
n we available in 2005," Smith said.
•
s pro-
udget
Terry Collins
ley appeared to question at
least some of the procedures
used in the state investigation.
Finley. who has reviewed all
the investigatory materials in
private, said it is 'dear that the
investigation requested by the
governor's office had no basic
criteria" for the investigator to
follow, nor "any predeter-
mined methodology upon
which to determine whether or
not an allegation was proven.
"There is nothing in the rec-
ord that would indicate that
any standards For supporting
an allegation ... was used or
ever contemplated at the out-
set of the investigation," he
wrote.
Finley- also ordered that
when the military investigation
is complete, all data and re-
ports will be made public. Con-
fidentiality of witnesses won't
be an issue, he said, since all
witnesses had been told that
their statements might become
public at some point. As part of
his ruling, Finley also denied a
request by Andreotti that the
material be given to him be-
fore its general release.
Patricia Lopez isat
plopeztestartrlbune.com.
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Milfoil found in four lakes
in Minnesota this summer
The Minnesota Depart-
ment of Natural Resources
(DNR) has confirmed the dis-
covery of Eurasian watermil-
foil in four lakes this summer.
Milfoil has now spread to
149 bodies of water in the
state since it was discovered
in the late 1980s. A majority of
the infested water bodies are
in central and north -central
Minnesota, according to Chip
Welling, who coordinates the
DNR's Eurasian watermilfoil
program.
p The DNR said the follow-
ing lakes, within 120 miles of
the Twin Cities, have been
added to the list of waters in-
fested with exotic species.
> Sand Lake, 500 acres,
near Moose Lake in Pine
�> Little Birch Lake, 840
acres, just north of Melrose in
Todd County.
> Indian Lake, 146 acres,
in Wright County.
Burandt Lake, which is
connected to Lake Waconia
in Carver County.
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by Eria Jobasew
71411SWEEK NEWSPAPERS
Home Products
International, Inc. announced
it will close its manufacturing
and warehouse facility in
Eagan when its lease expires
in January 2004.
The facility, which manu-
factures kitchen and general
storage items, currently
employs 130 people.
Home Products
International, Inc. is based in
Chicago. The company report-
ed a second-quarter net Toss of
Eagan plant, warehouse will close
More than 100 workers- will lose jobs
$3.3 miIlion.
Chairman and CEO James
R. Tennant said the loss was
due to the rising cost of plastic
resin, the company's prime
raw material.
"Resin costs have been
moving up all year and have
negatively impacted earn-
ings," he said, "Our sales,
while disappointing. reflect
conditions in our industry."
Tennant also cited the clos-
ings of Kmart, one of the com-
panies largest customers, as
contributing to poor sales.
The decision to close thi
Eagan facility came, he said
because "the current business
conditions we face require
that the company respond with
meaningful expense reduc-
tions"
The plant's closing is esti-
mated to cost $4_5 million.
Production will be moved to
other facilities or outsourced.
Erin Johnson is at
eagan.thisweek@ecm•
inc. cam.
Airport noise issues raise red flags in Eagan
City cancel -Heel that hill could affect noise impact of new runway
by Eris, Johnson
1H1S%F}.R N1.11. SPAPFIIS
The city of Eagan is con-
cerned about the affect a pro-
posed FAA bill might have on
Eagan homes in the path of the
new North -South runway, to be
completed in 2005.
The city contends that a pro-
vision in the Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA)
Reauthorization Bill would
limit federal funding to airports
for insulating homes against
airport noise.
The new Minneapolis -St.
Paul Airport runway will intro-
duce flight paths directly over
portions of Eagan, and city offi-
cials are worried that residents
in the runway's path will not
have their homes insulated due
to a lack of funds.
When it opens. the new run-
way will handle 44 percent of
all departures and 17 percent of
all arrivals.
"We're looking at close to
263 flights per day that will be
flying over Eagan. Thai's a lot
of new noise." said Dianne
Lord. Eagan's assistant to the
/., 5) -3 11u. w--
city administrator.
The city was alerted to the
bill by the National
Organization to Insure a Sound -
Controlled Environment
(NOISE), the national aviation
noise lobby. which called the
provision "a frontal assault on
everything NOISE stands for."
Mayor Pat Geagan sent a let-
ter to Sen_ Norm Coleman and
other Minnesota legislators to
make them aware of Eagan's
opposition to the bill.
"This provision (Section
See Noise, 6A
6A August 23, 2003 THISWEEK
Noise/from IA
1891 was quietly added to the
conference hill and received no
debate or examination by either
House of Congress," he wrote.
"On behalf of the city of Eagan,
I strongly urge you to oppose
Section 189 of the FAA
Reauthorization Bill."
Eagan is significantly
impacted by airport noise,
Geagan wrote. with an average
of 20,0(X) flights flying over the
city each month. The comple-
tion of the new runway will add
about 8,000 more flights per
month.
In 1996. the Minneapolis -St.
Paul Airport was looking to
move to Hastings. but it was
decided instead to expand the
current airport. Because the
expansion would create more
noise in surrounding residential
areas. the Metropolitan Airports
Commission (MAC) and air-
lines agreed to provide sound
insulation to certain affected
areas.
Affected areas arc measured
using a Day -Night Level
(DNL. an annualized average
of a 24-hour noise environment
around airports.
The lower the DNL. the
lower the noise level.
MAC agreed to provide
sound insulation out to the 60
DNL. MAC is currently com-
fa
pleting houses within the 65
DNL. however houses in the 60
to 64 DNL are still waiting for
noise insulation.
In his letter to Coleman.
Geagan wrote that the FAA
hill's provision "would all but
ensure that the thousands of res-
idents that live within the 60-64
DNL would not see the relief
they have been promised"
However, MAC Public
Information Officer Patrick
Hogan said that is not the case.
Hogan said that MAC initial-
ly shared the city's concern
about the bill. but has been
working with Sen. Coleman's
office on the issue and received
some clarification on the provi-
sion's wording.
"He assured us the only
funds affected are airport
improvement program grants,"
he said. "It will not impact our
ability to move forward on the
noise mitigation program"
Hogan said MAC fully
intends to follow through on its
noise mitigation agreement,
however the plan is contingent
upon FAA approval.
"It will probably he within
Iwo years that we will start
work on the 64 down to 60
DNL," he said.
The national standard for
noise mitigation is to insulate
homes out to the 65 DNL, he
said.
"We would be the first to
comprehensively try to go
beyond that." he said.
MAC spends about $34,000
per house for noise mitigation.
he said. which includes, air con-
ditioning, new windows and
doors, ventilation and insula-
tion. he said.
The airlines have agreed to
spend $70 million on noise mit-
igation for 60 to 64 DNL, and
MAC will contribute $80 mil-
lion. he said.
But Lord said noise mitiga-
tion funds can conic from air-
port improvement grants, so the
concern remains.
"The airport improvement
funds is one funding mecha-
nism available to the MAC for
noise mitigation, and those spe-
cific funds could be impacted
by the proposed legislation."
she said.
The city is trying to get the
word out to residents. Lord
said. so they will know the
extent to which they may be
affected. For instance, one
flight track will he positioned
directly over Cedar Avenue.
"This is where all the
arrivals will be coming in."
Lord said. "That's right over
the Cedar Grove area. So that
will be affected"
The departures will be
spread over five separate tracks
directly over Eagan, she said.
"The city's main focus has
been just communicating this
new runway and the noise
impact it will have." she said.
We're trying to get the mes-
sage out to everyone so they're
not surprised when they have
airplanes flying over their
house"
Lord said that another air-
port noise issue Eagan has been
dealing with is the percentage
of flights deviating from the
Eagan/Mendota Heights corri-
dor.
The corridor is situated pre-
dominantly above the Highway
55/149 area. It is the preferred
flight track, Lord said, because
Eagan purposely designated
land use in that area to be com-
mercial and industrial.
"So it doesn't impact as
many residential homes as it
would if we were to put it
straight down Eagan." she said.
The Eagan Airport Relations
Commission monitors compli-
ance within that corridor each
month. she said.
"And we've been seeing air-
planes coming further and fur-
ther south. which is not what we
want. We want them to stay in
the corridor," she said.
MAC and the FAA will
address the issue at the Sept. 9
Eagan Airport Relations
Commission meeting.
Chad Legve. manager of
Aviation Noise and Satellite
Programs for the Metropolitan
Airports Commission (MAC).
said the deviations are due
mainly to an aircraft fleet
demographic change.
The corridor is seeing a
higher number of faster jet air-
craft and lower numbers of
turbo -propeller planes, he said.
"The routes they (turbo -pro-
peller planes) were previously
flying are now being flown by
regional jet aircraft." he said.
Only turbo -propeller planes
are allowed to fly outside the
corridor to make way for the
faster jets inside the corridor.
There have also been more
departures operating within the
corridor more recently than in
the past. he said.
The change in fleet demo-
graphics combined with the
predominant southeasterly
winds of summer "kind of
strains the corridor," he said.
The FAA is aware of the
concern from the city's perspec-
tive. he said.
"I don't think we're seeing
anything extremely alarming,"
he said. "But 1 think they (the
FAA) are trying to do the best
job they can do maintaining
compliance with the corridor."
it is to the city's credit that it
is staying on top of these issues.
he said.
Erin Johnson is at
eagan.thisweek@ecm-inc.com.
c THISWEEK August 23, 2003 SA
Thisweek
www.thisweek-online.com
Miller resigns from Planning Commission
Tells. council he was denied due process by city
bt Erin _Johnson
Before the Eagan City
Council got a chance to decide
Ron Miller's future with the
city's Planning Commission,
Miller made the decision for
himself.
Miller submitted his resigna-
tion from the Eagan Advisory
Planning Commission during
the Aug. 19 City Council meet-
ing. moments before the coun-
cil was to vote on whether to
remove him.
Miller was cited for fifth -
degree assault in June for
allegedly striking and throwing
dirt at an employee at Johnson's
Richfield Blacktop in Eagan.
According to police, Miller said
he was on official city business
at the time of the alleged
assault.
Miller told the council that it
would be inappt'bpriate to
remove him from the Planning
Ron Stiller reads a statement
to the City Council announc-
ing his resignation from the
Planning (`onnnission.
Commission because he has not
had his day in court.
"Taking any such action at
this time will only serve to fur-
ther discredit me and further
damage my reputation," he said.
"But because this is such a one-
sided approach and an unseem-
ly rush to judgement, I have no
choice but to voluntarily submit
my resignation from the APC
effective immediately.'
Miller said he served the city
well and his resignation should
not be misinterpreted as an
admission of guilt.
"I only hope this does not
send the wrong message to any-
one. including the Johnsons
(owners of Richfield Blacktop).
I did no wrong to anyone that
day. I only acted in self
defense." he said.
According to the police
report, Miller had an ongoing
problem with the Richfield
Blacktop Company. located
near his home. Miller told
police he went to confront the
owner because the company's
front-end loader was filling his
house with diesel smoke.
When Miller arrived, he con-
fronted an employee who was
operating the front-end loader.
Miller stood in front of the
machine, picked up some dirt
and threw it at Gallatly, the
report states.
The employee told officers
that Miller then hit him twice in
the face. Miller told police he
was defending himself, but that
he never actually struck the
employee.
When the officer arrived at
Richfield Blacktop, he observed
that the employee's face was
full of dirt and there was blood
dripping from a small cut on
his forehead.
According to the report,
Miller told the officer he went
to the Richfield Blacktop
See Miller, 6A
2A August 23. 2003 THISWEEK
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Miller/from 1A
Commission.
The city held a hearing Aug.
7 at which both sides were given
a chance to speak. City Clerk
Maria Karels was appointed
hearing officer and gathered
facts and information on the
case. After the hearing. Karels
made her finding and presented
it to the city council.
The city was not investigat-
ing the criminal aspect of the
case, but rather focused on
whether Miller acted inappropri-
ately as a Planning Commission
member.
Miller did not appear al the
hearing to testify based on the
advice of his attorney, he said.
Instead, his wife appeared on his
behalf.
'Since there has not yet been
any determination by the courts
as to what transpired when I
acted in self defense on June 28,
1 believe that the Aug. 7 hearing
was premature on the part of the
city of Eagan. and the city
(ignored my right to due
It
process:' he said.
Karels found that Miller's
presence at Richfield Blacktop
was outside the scope of his
authority as a Planning
Commission member, and that
blocking the front-end loader
infringed upon the business's
right to operate. That behavior,
she found, constituted malfea-
sance on the pan of Miller.
The council has three options
available in the case of malfea-
sance: do nothing, suspend the
commission member for a peri-
od of time, or remove the com-
missioner from the commission.
But Miller's resignation pre-
empted the council's decision,
and council members accepted
his resignation unanimously.
"1t is very sad for all of us to
have to do this," said Council
Member Meg Tilley. "We defi-
nitely feel for the Millers"
In a statement he read to the
council, Miller said he and
Richfield Blacktop had an
agreement, mediated by the city.
that he would approach
Richfield Blacktop with any
probkrns before going to the
city.
"All I was trying to do on the
afternoon of Saturday, June 28
was to abide by that agreement
and to ask Richfield Blacktop to
do the same. Unfortunately, that
didn't happen." he said.
Miller said that he acted in
self defense that day because he
felt threatened.
"Anyone who thinks I would
start a fight with a construction
worker half my age who is oper-
ating a piece of heavy equipment
should think more realistically,"
he said.
He also said that he felt the
police officer had already made
up his mind about the case
before even entering Miller's
home.
"At no time did 1 tell him that
I was down there on official
business. I do not know where
he came up with that idea." he
said. "I deny all allegations set
forth in the police reports."
Erin Johnson is at
eagan.thisweek@erin-inc.com.
srani station 3/
Ph.t. 6, RR e)rnflur(
The grand opening of the Eagan
Transit Station, held Aug. 21, was
attended by dignitaries such as
Lt. Gov. Carol Molnau, left. who
cut the ribbon, Eagan City
Council Member Meg Tilley,
•middle, and Eagan Mayor Pat
Geagan. The station is located at
3470 Pilot Knob Road in Eagan.
In addition to being a stop for the
Minnesota Valley Transit
Authority, the station houses
several retail stores.
www.startribune.com/metto
Study cites
Dakota County
prosperity
But low numbers of immigrants and
poor concern diversity advocates.
DAKOTA COUNTY
U.S. census figures show that
Dakota County is among the na-
tion's most prosperous coun-
ties. Here's where it ranked
among the 23I largest counties:
9TH
Homeownershp
23RD
Household income
154TH
Immigrant population
223RD
By David Peterson
Star Tribune Staff Writer
Dakota County is one of the
most prosperous metropolitan
counties in the nation, a major
new federal survey has found.
In a comparison of 231 large
counties. Dakota ranked near
the top in income, education
and home ownership, but near
the bottom in poor people and
recent immigrants.
Dakota, said state demogra-
pher Tom Gillaspy, is a classic
suburban county.
"The people living in new
neighborhoods tend to be very
similar." he said.
SURVEY ooulla on 64:
— Comparing largest counties.
Eagan man named Humphrey Institute Policy Fellow
Mike Maguire. a resident of
Eagan, and Eagan City Council
member. has been named a
Policy Fellow at the University
of Minnesota's Humphrey
Institute of Public Affairs. He is
one of 33 individuals selected
for this year's program.
The Policy Fellows program,
a component of the Humphrey
Institute Policy Forum, pre-
pares individuals to assume
public affairs leadership roles.
Through a 10-month education-
al experience that includes con-
ferences, seminars and leader-
ship development activities.
Policy Fellows examine nation-
, / `
al and international issues con-
fronting the United States.
Fellows are selected from
Greater Minnesota as well as
the Twin Cities, increasing
interaction and understanding
among those who affect com-
munities throughout the state of
Minnesota.
Announcements
Eagan Police Department completes Safe and Sober project
Recently Eagan Police laws. An example of this arose out of traffic stops. Many
Officers completed a Safe and occurred July 26, 2003, when of these were for speed, stop 1
Sober project. The goal of the Eagan Police Officer Harrell sign or equipment violations.
Safe and Sober project is to pm- was working on a Safe and which officers see every day.
vide an increased patrol effort Sober detail and he stopped a This past month, officers
directed at specific traffic safety car which turned out to be a logged 66 traffic enforcement
issues. In the most recent proj- stolen vehicle. The driver was hours for the Safe and Sober
ect, the officers concentrated on arrested and narcotics were project. During the project, offi-
DWI cases. found inside the vehicle. cers stopped 114 vehicles,
A well-known theory among People often question the arrested three individuals for
police officers is that if you importance and prioritization of DUI and two others for under -
conduct enough traffic stops, traffic enforcement. This is just age drinking violations.
eventually you will encounter another example of how traffic Additionally, from July 3 to 26,
other forms of criminal activity. enforcement leads to improved Eagan officers arrested a total
Criminals drive cars and exhib- crime control. In fact. in Eagan of 20 people for drinking- and
it the same disregard for traffic during 2002, there were 102 driving -related offenses.
laws as they do for criminal narcotics -related arrests that
AUGUST 30. 2003
VOLUME 24, NO. 26
GirLs soccer
kicks off
Area soccer teams kick of the
season with some impressive
wins.
See Sports, 22A
1!1 Depth
Thisweek
Lagan
' its doors
Universe o ensArgosy�
New Eagan campus will serve 1,300 students
said.
by Erin Jobnsottt
t V.�SU I.k VFN%PAPERS
When Argosy University
students begin their fall classes.
they will have a new, custom
facility in Eagan to enhance
their learning environment.
The 90.0007square-fort
campus, which opens Sept. 2,
features state-of-the-art equip-
ment and walls of windows that
look over the new Community
Center and Central Park.
"The Community Center is a
gorgeous, gorgeous space. and l
think the two complement each
other." said Dr. William
Cowan, president of Argosy
University/Twin Cities.
"Universities are a big part of a
civic feeling, and so being in
this park -like civic setting is
just so neat for us, and I think
our students are really going to
feel part of the community."
The Argosyfrwin Cities
n
Argosy University will open in Eagan Sept. 2.
Bloomington.
"We had outgrown our previ-
ous facility. That one was
60.000 square feet, this one's
90,000" he said, "it was very
hallen : in : meeting all the
PMx. M trim Jeiwa
service needs that students have
when we had outgrown our
space."
Argosy, which was founded
about 40 years ago. has 13 cam-
puses around the country, he
www thisweek-online com
"We go all the way from
Honolulu to Washington. D.C..
and Tampa." he said.
The Eagan campus, which
serves about 1.300 students, is
now the only one in Minnesota.
"It's the newest facility. and
the only ground -up. custom-
built facility within Argosy:" he
said. "It's one of the nicest. and
it's the most custom -designed
facility we have in the country"
Argosy University has four
main schools of study: health
science. education, business
and psychology.
Associate and undergraduate
degrees are available in all four
schools, and graduate. doctoral
and post -doctoral programs are
also available in some areas.
"Health sciences is our
biggest area." he said,
Health sciences includes vet-
erinary technology, radiologic
See Argosy, SA
2A August 30, 2003 THISWEEK
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technology, medical assisting,
radiation therapy. dental hygiene,
medical lab technology and his-
totechnology.
The university will operate
seven days a week from 8 a.m. to
10 p.m. and will also offer online
programs for some classes.
The Eagan campus has about
55 full-time faculty members and
60 adjunct faculty members as
well as 32 staff members.
"A strength of our institution
is to bring in people who are
experts in their field and can
come in to tgach one course for
one term and give the students
the expert in the classroom," he
said.
Argosy focuses on practition-
er -based fields, he said, like clin-
ical psychology and dental
hygiene, "people who actually
need knowledge and need skills
to do a specific practitioner -based
career."
"As such, we also hire people
whose expertise is in doing that
clinical psychology or veterinary
technology." he said. "their
expertise isn't necessarily in
teaching, and what we do is teach
them how to teach."
Argosy is looking to be a part
of the Eagan community, he said
through sponsoring community -
building activities such as charity
walks, adopt -a -highway pro-
grams. low-cost dental care and
blood drives
"We very much want to be a
part of the community. We don't
just want to occupy space;' he
said. "People go into education,
not to make a lot of money, they
go into education because they
like how it impacts lives and part
of that is being a strong member
of the community"
The university is also looking
to hold a Christmas event for the
community during the holidays,
as well as feature community
plays through its education
department.
"We're just really excited to
be in this community," he said.
"It's been very, very welcoming"
Argosy University is located
at 1515 Central Parkway in
Eagan. For more information,
call (888) 844-2004 or visit
www.argosyu.edulnewcampus/.
Erin Johnson is at
eagan.thisxeek@ecm-inc.com.
1
PT1
T 1rSWEEK August 30, 2003 5A
American Red Cross provides
emergency response class
The American Red Cross of
the St. Paul Area is offering a
specialized education course
designed for individuals —
such as police officers. fire-
fighters, lifeguards. and ski
patrol personnel — who may
have a job -related duty to
respond in an emergency or are
interested in advanced first aid
training.
First Responder Training is
consistent with the U.S.
Department of Transportation
guidelines. Upon successful
completion. participants may
apply for First Responder regis-
tration from the Minnesota
Emergency Medical Services
Regulatory Board.
Total course hours for
Emergency Response are 48
over a six -week period, with
classes from 6-10 p.m. each
Monday and Wednesday
evening from Sept. 15 to Oct.
22. Total course registration fee
is $250, which includes books
and materials. All classes will
be taught at the American Red
Cross St. Paul Area Chapter
building at 176 S. Robert St. in
St. Paul. For more information
about the course or to register,
call (651) 291-6702.
AASPILJ3 MOTORS
(1.4444_
SUN -CURRENT
Eagan edition
NEws
NOTES
Sept. 4, 2003
Kicking off
season
This week hicks oft
the fall season for many
faith communities in the
area.
See inside for a di-
rectory to many of the
programs and worship
services offered by reli-
gious groups and con-
gregations throughout
the area.
Fair tradition
Football
kicks off
`Different' budget process gearing up in Eagan
City Council reviews
potential 2004 general fund
budget, property tax levy
BY JOSHUA NICHOLS
Sun Newspapers
As the Eagan City Council
moves toward the stretch rem in
setting its 2004 General Fund bud-
get one thing is for certain. As
City Administrator Tom Hedges
said, it's going to be a "different
process" this year.
Hedges made his comment as
the council explored the budget
and gave some feedback on its
property tax levy for 2009 during
an Aug. 26 workshop.
Loss of state aid
Facing the loss of more than
$1.35 million from the state Legis-
lature's elimination of Local Gov-
ernment Assistance (LGA) and
Home Market Value Credit. the
city has been working to identify
areas of potential revenue to keep
a zero increase budget.
"We're at the point where
we're looking at not a levy for in -
flat ion or growth, but just to make
up for the losses," Hedges said.
Property tax levy
When the Legislature took
away that stite aid for 2004, it al-
lowed cities the option to levy
back up to 60 percent of the loss,
Hedges said. That amount,
$810,118, represents the total in-
crease in the city's proposed prop-
erty tax levy
The council provided support
during the meeting with setting
the city's property tax at the max-
imum it can collect by state law,
•
or about $18.1 million.
That compares to $17.3 million
for the city's actual property tax
levy for 2003.
Although that increase may
seem significant, when the loss of
the state aid. which came from
property taxes is figured irt, the
city's property taxes will fall by
about $540.078.
And with Eagan's market
value and thus its tax capacity
rate rising, those taxes will be
spread around more.
BUDGET: To Page 26A
2A Apple Valley/Rosemount, Eagan Sun•Current/Thursday. Sept 4. 2003 www.mnSun.com
Apple Valley/Rosemount, Eagan SuniCurrent/Thursday, Sept 4, 2003 19A
Brew
From Page 1A
What beer of his is left
around these days is of much
higher quality - good enough to
earn Piatz, 50, the top award at
the first Minnesota State Fair
Homebrew Contest.
A total of 90 beers in 12 dif-
ferent categories were entered
in the Aug. 23 contest. with
seven or eight of those being
Piatz's entries.
But the one that took home
the "best in show" prize for
Piatz was his Belgian triple
beer. Selected as the best in its
category. the beer went on to
beat the best in 12 other styles
as judged by a panel of certified
beer tasters.
Like those who submit
homemade items such as quilts,
jams and cakes in other State
Fair competitions, Piatz took
home only a medal for his win
in the competition, which was
sponsored by the Minnesota
Home Brewers Association.
Being on the other side of the
table during a beer judging
competition is also familiar to
Piatz.
"I've been doing this long
enough that 1 am now a certified
beer judge," Piatz said.
That judging experience has
in turn affected the way he
makes his home brews, he said.
"I'm pretty on top of what
the styles are," he said. "From
my judging background I basi-
cally have an idea of what it
Id taste like. Judging sten-
scribe the different qualities
and tastes of beer, so that gives
me some clues."
Piatz said that he started
brewing beer at home 11 years
ago because his friends were
into it.
"That was my original moti-
vation and I kind of picked it up
from them and went overboard
with it." he said with a laugh.
When he makes his beers in
his Eagan home, Piatz follows
pretty much the same method
used for hundreds of years
across the world.
Piatz does all grain brewing,
meaning he starts with grains
of malted barley. heats and
crushes them and then mixes
the grains with warm water.
That process removes the sug-
ars from the barley grains,
which is then mixed with more
water along with hops, yeast
and other ingredients.
That process can take any-
where from six to eight hours
and then the beer mixture still
. needs to ferment before it is
ready to be served.
There is also a shortcut some
homebrewers take, where they
can buy concentrated malt
syrup or powder to skip the first
step in the process, Piatz said.
Piatz said he and his wife,
Janis Sines, prefer Belgian va-
rieties of beers because there
are so many different kinds.
"There are a lot of them out
there and they have a relatively
complex flavor," Piatz said.
"Belgium is a smaller country,
but it has hundreds of commer-
cial brewers so there is a lot to
choose from." Plata, a South
Dakota native who moved to
Eagan in the 1970s from Wash -
Andy Blenkushk ,n `,pxccapeN
Eagan resident Steve Piatz's home brew won the best in show award in the State Fair's first Homebrew
Contest. Piatz has been brewing beer at home since 1991 and entered his first contest in 1992.
ington, is trained as an electri-
cal engineer and writes opera-
tional software for Cray Re-
search. Piatz's experience at the
State Fair was hardly his first
taste of competition. He en-
tered his first contest in 1992
and enters competitions at least
a half -dozen times a year
Going into the State Fair
competition, Piatz knew his
chances were good.
"I knew the ones 1 had en-
tered were good and there
weren't that many entered," he
said. "So I figured I had a pretty
good chance, but it was still
kind of nice to win."
The win and the competition
itself were made even more en-
joyable because of the time
spent with others in the tight-
knit homebrewing and beer
judging community, he said.
"It's a fun thing," he said.
"You are making something
perishable, but it is also some-
thing you can consume and
share with others. I love drink-
ing and making beer and shar-
ing it with friends and family.
My brother always jokes that he
knows what his Christmas gift
will be each year and that it's al-
ways something he knows he
can use."
20A Apple Valley/Rosemount, Eagan Sun•Current/Thursday, Sept. 4, 2003
Eagan company part of
Microsoft study
ORBIT Systems, Inc., an Eagan -based
provider of managed computer environ-
ments for small and mid -size businesses,
has announced that Microsoft Corpora-
tion has selected ORBIT to participate in
a Windows XP and Office XP case study.
ORBIT was selected for the case study
along with the company's new client,
Arthur Shuster, Inc., a St. Paul interior
design firm.
The globally distributed case study
will serve as a model deployment of Mi-
crosoft's latest operating system and
desktop applications in a small business
setting.
The case study will highlight the ben-
efits that Arthur Shuster has experi-
enced by upgrading to the XP platform
and it will illustrate the methodologies
ORBIT uses to deploy and manage small
business computer systems.
ORBITwas one of three companies
selected for this national recognition. In
February, ORBIT upgraded the comput-
ers and software at Arthur Shuster's St.
Paul and Wichita, Kan., locations pur-
suant to a four-year outsourcing agree-
ment.
Steve McFarland, ORBIT's President,
said "We deploy XP for our clients be-
www.mnSun.eom
BUSINESS
cause it's a more stable and secure com-
puting platform that enables easy re-
mote computing and remote Help Desk
support. Arthur Shuster exemplifies the
benefits of XP."
For more information regarding
ORBIT Systems, please call Tucker John-
son at 651-767-£9 or visit ORBIT's Web
site at www.orbits.net.
PWRE meeting set for
Sept. I I in Eagan
The newest trends in window and
floor coverings will be presented by de-
signer Kris Kinder of HOME VALU at
the opening meeting of Professional
Women in Real Estate, Thursday Sept.
11, in Eagan.
The luncheon meeting will begin at
11:30 a.m. at the Cherokee Sirloin Room,
9625 Nicols Road, Eagan, and will in-
clude installation of new officers. There
will also be a drawing for those who have
paid membership dues prior to or at the
meeting.
The cost for the lunch is $12 for mem-
bers and $13.50 for nonmembers. Reser-
vations must be received by noon Tues-
day, Sept. 9, by calling Sara Grossman at
651-452-6611.
Information: 651-950-5749 (Pat Ka-
plan).
H&R Block tax course begins September 8
Thousands of people are learning the skill
of income tax preparation from the H&R
Block Income Tax Course. H&R Block,
the nation's largest tax firm, is offering
instruction starting September 8 with
flexible morning. afternoon, and evening
classes available.
Dunng the 11-week course, you will learn
the nuts and bolts of tax e 'oration from
H&R Block designed this course to suit
people who want to increase their tax
knowledge and save money on taxes, or
who are looking for training for a second
career or seasonal employment. Qualified
students may be offered job interviews for
positions with H&R Block*
For more information,
call 1-800-HRBLOCK
New children's fitness
studio in Eagan
Cardio Kids children's fitness studio
recently opened in Eagan, providing an
environment where children. ages 18
months to 10 years, begin their journey
to a life-long love of fitness.
Classes are designed with creative
movement, music, and activities.
One of the many classes being offered
is "Fun On The Run" where children
ages 4 to 10 can be dropped off for an ex-
tended class while parents take advan-
tage of the studios location, between
Target and Cub Foods. to run errands or
to have a quiet dinner alone.
Information: 651-454-7577 or stop by
Cardlo Kids, 1960 Cliff Lake Road, Suite
113. Mention this announcement and re-
ceive half off your first class.
Dakota Electric ranks
in customer service
A recent survey for Dakota Electric
Association reinforces a nationwide sur-
vey, which found that Touchstone Ener-
gy cooperative customers are highly sat-
isfied with the service they receive from
electric cooperatives around the nation.
Dakota Electric Association received
tiuericao Laser
H.rrRemoval t kin •/urenipt/an
a score of 80 on the American Customer
Satisfaction Index (ASCI). This score is
only slightly under the top score of 82
and well above the utility industry aver-
age of 73. Only two other utilities scored
82, and one of those top scorers was
Touchstone Energy. Dakota Electric is
part of Touchstone Energy, a nationwide
alliance of more than 600 electric coop-
eratives.
"Our customers are the owners of the
company and we try to treat them that
way," said President and CEO Greg
Miller. "It really does make a difference
that we are an electric cooperative. We
continually strive to provide exceptional
service."
ACSI is one of the most recognized
customer satisfaction indices in the
United States. It's managed by the Uni-
versity of Michigan Business School and
sponsored by the American Society for
Quality. It measures customers' satisfac-
tion in 16 major industries and 190 lead-
ing corporations.
In two different surveys since 2002,
Touchstone Energy scored 82. This is the
first year that Dakota Electric has been
able to incorporate the ASCI questions
into its customer satisfaction survey,
which is conducted every two years. The
phone survey was conducted through a
random sampling of cooperative cus-
tomers in June.
Remove Unwanted Hair!
Pucr.4 Stastwe9 at
Upper Lip ....$99.95
Bikini Line ...$139.95
Underarms ..$16
Passion
brews for ?/( 3
Eagan mark ---
Matz wins 'best in show' at
State Fair homebrew contest
By JosHcu Maims
Sin Newspapers
Eagan resident Steve Piatz will
be the first one to admit he has
come a long way since his passion
for homemade beer first started
brewing more than a decade ago.
"When I think back to the first
batches 1 entered in contests,
those were pretty bad." Piatz said.
"Those were vile. They were actu-
ally very vile, but there's none of
those batches left around so no
one has to worry"
BREWS: To Page 19A
26A Apple Valley/Rosemount, Eagan SurrCurrent/Thursday, Sept. 4, 2003
Budget
From Page lA
Without inflation. the owner of a
$180,000 home, the median home value in
Eagan, would find property taxes going
from $508 in 2003 to $479 in 2004.
Even with a 5.6 percent inflation fig-
ure factored into the house's value, the
same homeowner would see that rate in-
crease to $512, representing a 0.7 percent
increase, said Finance Director Gene
VanOverbeke.
There was little doubt that the city
would agree to set the property tax limit
at the maximum allowable after what
happened last year.
After deciding to set the 2003 property
tax rate at $17.3 million, $413,417 short of
the then maximum, the Legislature not
only made the reductions to state aid, but
also prohibited cities from raising their
base property taxes beyond the 2003 rate.
That meant the city lost out on that
$413,417.
"The biggest mistake the state Legis-
lature ever made was to penalize cities
for not levying to the max," Coun-
cilmember Peggy Carlson said. "Because
now everybody is scared and they are
going to always levy to the maximum.
They are paranoid, and rightfully so.
that they are not going to be able to do it
again."
Making up lost revenue
Overall, the council supported a bud-
get that calls for the same revenues for
2004 as in 2003. The preliminary budget
presented at the workshop featured
$21.78 million in projected revenue.
Despite the losses in state aid and the
ability to levy back for only 60 percent of
that loss. the proposed budget outlines
several ways to make up that lost rev-
enue.
It calls for suspending the city's
$107,791 levy for renewal and replace-
ment of facilities and instead allocates
those funds to operations. It also features
an increase in the amount of $200,394 to
the administrative transfer fees from the
city's water and sanitary sewer utilities.
But the change that brought about the
most debate was a proposal to increase
some user fees to raise an additional
$150,000. Hedges explained that a review
of League of Minnesota Cities informa-
tion showed that Eagan collects $229,000
less than the median collected by similar
sized cities.
"1 see that we are lower than other
cities, but the user fees are a tax no mat-
ter what you call them," Mayor Pat Gea-
gan said.
The fees that would be increased
would be the ones most likely to make an
impact financially on the city's revenue,
including Liquor licenses and building
permits.
"It's more than even political, it's eco-
nomic," Carlson said. "In a down econo-
my, you don't want to look at what could
be considered gouging fees. But we have
been low compared to what other cities
are doing, so 1 would be open to looking
at that."
Hedges said that while some cities
have been more affected by the state's re-
ductions, Eagan hasn't suffered as much.
He pointed to a state auditor's study that
showed Eagan spends less per capita
than any other Minnesota city with a
population of more than 50.000.
"Eagan has been committed to limit-
ed government," Hedges said. "Some
cities have been eliminating positions
that we haven't even considered adding.
You have to give the city a lot of credit for
that. '
Hiring freeze stays
The budget also calls for keeping in
place the hiring freeze the city installed
in 2003 in response to the then -potential
state reductions.
www.mnSun.com
"We are feeling some strains overall
in the city," Hedges said. "There are lots
of anxious people wondering when it's
going to go away."
Hedges said that even after the hiring
freeze goes away, the city will continue to
review every position as it opens. That
way, it can be sure that each position i
still needed and that its duties haven't
changed that much, he said.
Geagan questioned the method used
to decide if a position should be open or
frozen.
"It seems we are allowing happen-
stance to deal with some of these posi-
tions that open," Geagan saki.
"If someone leaves a position, it may
not be the first choice of the department
to freeze that position. There might be
another position they would rather
freeze."
The council agreed to direct the issue
to the personnel committee to examine
potential policy changes and to look a
possibly adopting criteria to decide wha
action should be taken when an employ
ee leaves the city.
The city is required to certify a pro-
posed payable 2004 property tax levy to
Dakota County by Sept. 15.
The council was scheduled to official
ly set that proposed levy during its Sept
2 meeting.
vamei
t -amity of 6hrist
iitheran 6urch (ELCA)
10970 185tt, St W Lakeville, MN 55044
952-435-5757
• Sunday Worship 8.30 & 10 45 om
• Sunday School 940 om
• Nursery provided at 8-30 & 10 45 om
ill_
East o(1-35 on 185th, Lakeville
. natomitzolfigfrayatsog3 4
Pastor Lon Larson
i
ZV
1- BEREA LUTHERAN
441261CHURCH cros
7538 Emerson Ave. South • Richfield, MN
612-861.7121
Apple VsNNy/Ros.mount, Eagan Sun Currentahursday, Sept 4. 2003
Si. Boni's Fall Festiral
Friday, Sept. 5"
Chicken Dinner
,taming at aAlSp.
33rd
Anniversa
Saturday, Sept, Gib
Activities A11 Da
,darting with parade at 10:011 a.m.
s
EAGAN fr7 / a j.
`Family
room'
opens in
the red
$23.5 million facility
has operating deficit
BY MARA 11. GOTTFRIED
Pioneer Press
After decades in the making,
Eagan's $23.5 million "family
room" is nearly complete.
The Eagan Community Cen-
ter, in the city's new 60-acre
Central Park, will be fully func-
tional at the end of September.
Events already are taking
place. About 2.5 senior citizens
recently met in the Lone Oak
Senior Room to chat, play cards
and read. A few people worked
out in the new fitness center
during a weekday morning. And
wedding receptions are booked
at the center's banquet hall for
most Saturday nights through
October 2004.
These tight -budget times
have altered the center's course
a bit, but not in a major way.
For the most part, the people
of Eagan seem content, some
even enthusiastic, about the
new center. But some who
opposed the referendum for the
center in 2000 still have qualms
about it.
There was talk of building a
community center in Eagan as
early as the 1970s, said Ken
Vraa, Eagan's parks and recre-
ation director. Surrounding
communities — Apple Valley,
Rosemount and Inver Grove
Heights -- have had community
centers for years, but several
referendums to build a center in
Eagan failed in the late 1980s
and 1990s.
"In terms of development.
that's something that usually
happens early on in a communi-
ty's life," Vraa said. "l think one
of the things we have really
missed in this city is a sort of
central gathering point."
In 2000, the city paid 27.4 mil-
lion for 60 acres near Pilot Knob
and Yankee Doodle roads,
which became Central PRP4.
Planning came in the form of
citizen task forces and a survey.
In June 2000, a 115.3 million ref-
erendum drew 17 percent of
FAMILY CENTER. 48
Eagan firm wins $27.6 million bid
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The
Navy has awarded Eagan -
based Lockheed Martin Tacti-
cal Systems a $27.6 million
contract to develop Taiwanese
military systems.
The contract is a part of a
foreign military sale, Work is
expected to be complete by
June, Lockheed Martin spokes-
woman Sheri Grone said.
Though only 3.3 percent of
the work will be done in Min-
nesota, Grone said, the con-
tract might be renewed, giving
it potential to be worth mnre
than $2 billion over nine years.
"It's always important for
Lockheed Martin that we con-
tinue to win new business,"
Grone said, adding that more
defense contracts will help
business in Minnesota. "We
need to keep growing, and
that's how we do it."
Sen. Norm Coleman, R-
Minn., said Tuesday that he
was happy to see a Minnesota
company win another defense
contract.
"Minnesota has long been a
leader in the development of
cutting -edge technologies, and
our state is making great
strides in winning defense con-
tracts that mean real jobs," he
said.
Coleman and Sen. Mark
Dayton, D-Minn., met with of-
ficials from Lockheed and oth-
er Minnesota companies -last
month to talk about defense
contracts for the state.
Dayton said he hopes de-
fense contracts will bring job
opportunities to the state.
"1 am delighted that Lock-
heed Martin Tactical Systems
in Eagan was awarded this siz-
able contract, which will hope-
fully translate into more jobs
for Minnesotans," Dayton said.
Grone said the company
had to compete for the con-
tract. Most of the first phase of
the project will be done in San
Diego.
Lockheed Martin employs
1,400 people in Eagan, 650 of
whom are engineers, Grone
said, 1t is a local operation of
Lockheed Martin in Bethesda,
Md.
Sen. Norm
Coleman:
"Our state is
making great
strides in win-
ning defense
contracts."
Si.eMark
Dayton: "I'm
delighted that
Lockheed ...
was awarded
this sizable
contract."
The project will integrate
Taiwan's air, sea and ground
military capabilities.
Elizabeth Dunbar
o
Fee changes could.; . `'3
boost GIs data useage
by Laura Adelmaan
1HISWPt.K NI-WSPAPEMS
To encourage broader use of
Geographical Information
System (GIS) data. Dakota
County Commissioners on
Sept. 9 approved a revised pric-
ing structure that allows for
volume discounts.
GIS data is available to gov-
ernments. businesses and citi-
zens and can include informa-
tion about parcels. contours,
street centerlines as well as
color aerial photo maps.
Additionally, interested par-
ties will be offered an option of
See GIS, 13B
GIS creates computerized maps for geographical analysis b'
merging various data, such as population or boundaries, with
physical features.
• n•
• so
•
1
n
n
y
e
1
GIS/from 1B """ �4-
paying an annual or quarterly
subscription fee for access to
the data.
When the previous fee of 5
cents per -parcel was set in
2000, the target market was
primarily related to individu-
als or entities involved with
residential property develop-
ment.
Additionally. entire data
sets were priced at 56.200,
and although the county has
received inquiries as to data
set availability, there have
been no sales. County staff
chalked the lack of sales to
the steep price tag.
Volume discounts, county
staff said, are intended to
{ make the data more attractive
to customers interested in
using the data to perform
independent analysis and sup-
plement their own databases.
1 Likely customers include
utility companies that per-
form market research. map-
ping and provide utilities.
Revenue raised through
GIS sales is used for contin-
ued maintenance of the G15
database.
Laura Adelmann is
deeditorW frontiernet.net.
sit
www.mnSun.com
COMMUNITY NOTES
Grand opening event
set for center, park
Eagan officials have released the
schedule for the Saturday, Sept. 27. grand
opening for the new Eagan Community
Center and Central Park.
The event will run from noon until 4
p.m. at the Community Center, which is
northwest of Pilot Knob and Yankee
Doodle roads.
"The goal of the dedication cere-
monies is to dramatically and visually
demonstrate the many aspects. the
groups and organizations that make up
this great community." said City Admin-
istrator Tom Hedges.
That's why earlier this month the city
began encouraging as many civic
groups, businesses, churches and
schools as possible to participate.
The schedule begins at noon with
tours of the Community Center and free
food and beverages for the first 2.500
people donated by Classic Catering,
Coca-Cola and other vendors.
At 1 p.m. the dedication ceremonies
and grand procession begin. Following
brief ribbon cutting ceremonies at the
Pavilion, the Grandfather Tree. the
Gazebo. and the Eagan Rotary Band
i
1
Shell. participants dressed in their orga-
nization's apparel and walking behind
signs with their group names will join
the grand procession of organizations in
a walk to the Community Center amid
daytime fireworks.
At 2 p.m. up to 2.000 Eagan residents
will be assembled for the "Human E" his-
torical aerial photograph commemorat-
ing the occasion. People will be grouped
to spell out a giant E in front of the com-
munity center for a photograph to be
taken from the Fire Department ladder
truck. Reprints may be sold.
At 2:30 p.m., the All -Eagan Sing be-
gins, involving the Eagan Men's and
Women's choruses. Church choirs.
school choirs of all ages. and members of
the public who just like to sing are all in-
vited to participate.
They will lead participants in an in-
spirational community sing -along of
common pieces of music, followed by
one number that is the musical gift of
this mass choir to the community.
Beginning at 3 p.m.. the event con-
cludes the final hour with fun competi-
tions for prizes in the three regulation -
size gyms. tours of the facility. bingo in
the Lone Oak Senior Room. and other ac-
tivities.
"The whole afternoon is meant to be a
fun and family -friendly event for people
of all ages," said event organizer Tom
Garrison.
In addition to the announced activities,
Garrison said to "look for a few surprises.
People will be glad they came and partici-
pated in this once in a lifetime event."
Groups wishing to participate are
asked to call the Eagan Parks and Recre-
ation Department at 651-675.5500.
WA�.AM. 4 i :a.
www.mnSun.com
Grant to help
city preserve
its greenway
By JOSHUA NICHOLS
Su► Newspapers
The process continues as one of the
first pieces in the Eagan Core Greenway
moved closer to falling in place Sept. 16.
The Eagan City Council approved a
contract that will bring $349,703 to an ef-
fort to buy a nine -acre parcel, south of
the entrance to Patrick Eagan Park,
owned by Lee Anderson.
A grant, which came from the Min-
nesota Department of Natural Re-
sources' (DNR) Scenic and Natural Area
program, will be paired with other fund-
ing to preserve a piece of land that
snakes up the Eagan Core Greenway.
The greenway is a stretch of open land
that runs from the area around Patrick
Eagan Park to Lebanon Hills Regional Pant.
Eagan threw its support behind the
Anderson property in March when it en-
dorsed the application and agreed to
cover 20 percent of the cost to buy the
land. estimated at $180, 000.
The DNR's Natural and Scenic Area
Grant Program representative, Wayne
Sames, said the grant is one of the
largest ever awarded from the program,
"The city of Eagan submitted a very com-
petitive proposal for this project." Sames
said. 'That is why it was so successitil."
The property, which the citizens'
group Friends of Patrick Eagan Park and
the city has targeted as the first privately -
owned piece of land sought to be protect-
ed within the Eagan Greenway, was eval-
uated at $900,000 earlier this year.
The city's portion of the funding would
come from its Park Dedication Fund.
Friends of Patrick Eagan Park have
also received a ;100,000 award from the
DNR's Metro Greenway program. sub-
ject to a closing date of June 2004.
The rest of the $270,297 needed for the
project could come from a variety of
sources, with the most likely source
being Dakota County's Farmland and
Natural Areas Project.
The Trust for Public Land, a key part-
ner in the project, is working with the
Andersons to submit an application to
Dakota County for much of the remain-
der of the value of the property.
Although most of the land in the
greenway consists of publicly owned
parcels, including Goat Hill, Trapp
Farm, Walnut Hill and Lexington✓Dif-
fley, the Anderson property and two
other properties are privately owned.
The owners of the two privately
owned parcels have indicated a willing-
ness to preserve their land.
The council has endorsed applications
by Patrick McCarthy: who owns land north
of Patrick Eagan Park, and Anthony
Caponi. owner of the Caponi Art Park to the
south of Patrick Eagan Park, to take part in
the Metro Greenways grant program.
The contracts between the city and the
DNR include a clause specifying land re-
tention requirements. The city will not be
able to convert the Anderson property
without prior written approval by the state.
For more information on Friends of
Patrick Eagan Park, visit www.friend-
sofpatrickeaganpark.org.
In other business at the meeting:
The council authorized the installa-
tion of an 'Advance Emergency Vehicle
Pre-Emption Detector" for the intersec-
tion of Cliff Road and Galaxie Avenue.
The detector. which will be installed
by Collins Electrical Construction Co.
for $34,610, is intended to improve safety
at the intersection. which is the site of
Eagan Fire Station No. 5.
By installing an advance EVP detec-
tor south of the intersection. it will give
motorists an earlier warning and will
also address signal reading limitations
caused by curves in Galaxie Avenue.
The cost for the project will be the re-
�Iponsibility of the city's Major Street Fund.
.N
z edition
qitiA
CTJRR
What a grind
Nick Dyson. 6, of Rosemount discovers grinding corn 1940s style is
more difficult than he thought while he and family members spent
Saturday afternoon at Holz Farm Park during its annual Lone Oak
Days Festival.
A win -win deal: Free farmland for conservation
By Heron Marquez Estrada
Star Tribune Staff Writer
Dakota County broke some
ground last year when resi-
dents of the fast-growing area
voted to tax themselves to cre-
ate a $20 million fund to ac-
quire farmland and open space
for conservation.
The first fruit of the Dakota
County Farmland and Natural
Area Program came in the form
of a donation from an Eagan
farmer, who turned over con-
trol of a 34-acre parcel of land,
valued at $3.4 million, to the
county.
The best part: It didn't cost
the county a thing.
The land, northwest of the
intersection of Wescott Rd. and
Lexington Av. in Eagan, was
turned over by owner Patrick
McCarthy, who will use the do-
ation to offset estate taxes
owed to the IRS after the death
of his brother, James.
"I think this ends up a win -
win," said Nancy Schouweiler,
who was among the seven Da-
kota County commissioners
who voted unanimously to ap-
prove the plan during an emer-
gency board meeting.
The board gathered Mon-
day afternoon to meet a Sept.
22 deadline imposed by the IRS
for making the donation, said
Rollie Crawford, McCarthy's
attorney.
Crawford said the exact
amount of the tax benefit to
McCarthy has not been calcu-
lated, Technically, the county
receives a permanent ease-
ment to the property while Mc-
Carthy retains ownership and
tax liability on it.
"tie just really wants to see
it preserved," Crawford said.
The board's decision drew
immediate praise from conser-
vationists. who have been
working to acquire the McCar-
thy land and hundreds of acres
elsewhere in the city to create a
green corridor.
"We are grateful, we are de-
lighted," said Jack Conrad of
the group Friends of Patrick
Eagan Park.
The county's preservation
plan calls for spending $20 mil-
lion over 10 years to buy and
preserve anywhere from 5,000
to 10,000 acres of farmland and
natural areas. Voters approved
a bond referendum last fall to
pay for the planned purchases.
A similar plan failed in
Washington County in 2000,
largely because of opposition
to its cost.
To pay for the program in
Dakota County, owners of a
median -value home, priced at
$176,500, will pay $17 more an-
1
land r
Hurley g
LAMM
COt'\TY
nually property tax increase.
Owners of $300,000 homes will
pay nearly $30 more each year.
Hendn Mdfrguez Estrada Is at
ha stare ibmene ooin.
lite,'"
Lewis is scheduled to start
r his Charlotte program on Nov.
1. What will he miss most
about Minnesota?
"The winter and the taxes,"
he said. "That's what 1 really
wish I could stay for-"
Kristin Tillotson is at
ktitlotson(astartribune.conr.
Storrnl Greener/Star Trtuie 2002
KSTP's fiercely opkiionated
Jason Lewis announced to his
listeners on Monday that he Is
leaving KSTP Radio (1500 AM)
for WBT in Charlotte, N.C.
Giuliani to return to office
Washington appearance at the
National Press Club.
He said arts funding
amounts to only $1 per child per
year, and he called on the feder-
al government to double that.
Ile added that more interest
needs to be generated among
parents and in the community.
Etheridge ties knot
Grattn) -winning singer
Melissa Etheridge exchanged
vows with her girlfriend, ac-
tress Tam py Lynn Michaels, in a
weekend ceremony in Malibu,
Calif., the singer's publicist
said. A prepared statement
Sunday described them as
married, although same -sex
couples cannot legally marry in
California.
Birthday people
) Actor Mickey Rooney, 83.
)1.- Singer Ray Charles. 73.
Singer Julio Iglesias, 60.
Singer Bruce Springsteen,
54.
Actor Jason Alexandert i
Ferrand. Her Shirley is unfail-
ingly pleasant, warm and
friendly- There's a sense of
second nature about her eco-
nomical movements —
whether it is peeling potatoes
at her kitchen table or sipping
Ouzo at a seaside bistro.
Funny and frank, she talks
without a whiff of embarrass-
ment about her sex life, her
children, her husband. Yes,
she is unhappy and probably
even hates her life, but Fer-
rand never lets Shirley de-
scend into vituperation.
"Marriage is like the Mid-
dle East," Shirley says.
"There's no solution." No
malice and no accusations —
just a wry observation of her
situation. By the second act,
Shirley has taken up the
Greek opportunity. and her
tension thaws in the warm
Mediterranean waters. In a
welcome departure from the
"Me -ism" of the irresponsible
(outs who revel in the carnage
of their self -actualization
causes, Shirley even ends the
show with an overture to her
husband.
morse, dutiful resolve and
shy flirtation. One could ar-
gue that she doesn't go to ex-
tremes, but then she is a Brit-
ish lady schooled in manners.
There should be a proper gy-
roscope at work in her.
Russell's lessons are com-
monplace, expressed in a lan-
guage heard often these days.
Still, there is a welcome affir-
mation of life that calls out to
us: Most of us die long before
we're dead. Shirley laments
that she got lost in all the un-
used life she wanted to live as
a young woman.
"We don't do what we
want to do," she says. "We do
what we have to do."
It's not the kind of stuff
that will cause you to quit
your job or abandon your
spouse and kids, but the les-
sons in "Shirley Valentine"
speak to all situations and ar-
gue for an awareness that
each life is precious. That's
not too self-absorbed, is it?
Graydon Royce is at
groyreOstartribune.com.
4
want to .e
rn t eir experience, MnDOT
would not do that. Allan Pint,
director of MnDOT's Land
Management Office, said the
agency had a longstanding pol-
icy against doing so.
"I'm not sure why. But gen-
erally, we do not share apprais-
als," Pint said last spring.
Two Rochester legislators
— Sen. Sheila Kiscaden of the
lation, modeled after Wiscon-
sin's condemnation laws. It
would have forced government
agencies working on road pro-
jects to pay a property owner's
legal fees in cases where the
owner wins a court award that
substantially exceeded the
agency's offer for the property.
MnDOT, along with sorne
cities and counties, argued that
spent on right-of-way de-
creases the amount that can be
spent to build roads. And in
growing areas such as Roches-
ter and the Twin Cities, land
acquisition costs are taking a
bigger bite, he said.
Kuisle said what bothered
him is that MnDOT's apprais-
als — at least along Hwys. 52
and f3 in Rochester — have
fair about it.
"So yes, we're very interest-
ed in hearing from the public
and ... those that supposedly
have been wronged," he said.
"Let the public come forward."
Dun Browning is at
dbro wningtitCtartribune.rom.
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hoard Certified Physician
I
n. Michael Collins of
, Jodi Goldberg of St
I. Meredylh Goldberg
!son & husband
ve; great-grandchd-
. Jamie and Wattle,
of Salem. OR. ❑fe-
Iriend, Leah She -
and other relatives
friends. Graveside
e WEDNESDAY 10
BETH EL MEMO -
PARK. 38th & Win -
a Ave N, Crystal.
orals preferred 10
Jack Collins Memo.
Scholarship Fund at
Carlson School of
-merit at the U of
r donors favorite
city. SHIVA 7025
wood Ave, Golden
ey (Wed. evening
7 PM). Arr. Ho-
b Sons
ey
st, age 90. of Big
passed away on
. 21. 2003. Sur -
by sister, Florence
r; and brother, Bur -
Ernest was cre-
d and no services
held.
e's Funeral Home
763 441-1212
men? Champlin Cem-
etery Visitation 5-8 PM
Wednesday at
Thurston -Lindberg Fu-
neral Home, W. Man St
8 Branch Ave.. Anoka.
Vigil prayers 7 PM
Wednesday at the fu
neral home Memorials
preferred.
Thurston -Lindberg
763 421-0220
Deering
Donna M.. age 72. of
Crystal, on Sept. 21.
Preceded in death by 1
sister. Survived by 4
Sisters and 1 brother.
Visrtation Thurs. 5-7 PM
at Gill Brothers Funeral
Chapel, 7300 Rockford
Rd (42nd Ave N ), with
prayer service at 7 PM.
GILL BROTHERS
763-531-1777
And so thy thoughts
when thou arc gone,
Love itself shall
slumter on.
—Percy Shelley
tares McOuartro of Edina:
step -mother. Natalie Di-
etrich of Lauderdale -by•
the -Sea. FL. Mass al
Christian Burial Thursday,
Sept 25, 2003 at 11 AM
a1 St. Anne's Catholic
Church in LeSueur Visi-
tation 4 8 PM Wednes-
day at the Kolden Fu-
neral Home in LeSueur,
with 7 PM Rosary. In•
torment will be in the
Calvary Cemetery in
LeSueur.
Wheeler, groat -grandchil-
dren. Troy, Cassandra,
Chris 'CA.'', Justin and
Shane. Celebration of
Lite Thursday, Sept 25.
7 PM. Cremation Soci-
ety of MN Brooklyn Park
Chapel, 7835 Brooklyn
Blvd . Brooklyn Park
(763-560-31001 Pri-
vate interment at Fort
Snelling In lieu of Clow.
ers, memorials preferred
to Letlionvele Cane
Deve, Amy (John) and
Kirstln; great-grandchil-
dren. Luke and Morgan:
brother. Connie Monroe
(Pal). Memorials pre
lured to Colony Park
Baptist Church or North-
western College.
Roseville. Interment
Lakewood Cemetery
Service 11 AM Thursday.
Colony Park Baptist
Church. 5532 Wooddale
Ave S.. Edina Visitation
one hour before the ser-
vice a1 Church and 6 9
PM Wednesday at
Washburn -McNeil
Edeaa Chapel
W. 50th & Hwy. 100
952-920,3996
So grieve
a while fix
me, if grieve
you must
Then let
your grief be
comforted
by trust
-Unknown
(Linda) & Joyce (Greg)
Engler: 14 grandchildren
& 8 great-grandchildren.
Viattabont Tues (TODAY)
5.8 PM, Albin Chapel •
Eden Prairie. 6855 Row-
land Rd. and 1 hour prior
to the service Wed.. 11
AM. Albin Chapel - Eden
Prairie. Interment Ft
Snelling Nat'l Cemetery
Albin Chapel -Eden Prone
Ralph, Jrrn. Dan Albrison
952-914-9410
Hoover
Nancy Borne, age 82. 0f
Willow River. MN. Previ-
ously DI Mpls. Passed
away Sept. 18, 2003
She was born June 6.
1921 and is survived by
husband, Harold; sons.
Harold Jr . Dean and
Clinton; grandsons, Jer-
emy and Eli, sister. Vrr
ginia Bennett, and
cousin, Herbert Chalker
Funeral service Tues,
Sept 23. 1 pm at Ham-
lin • Hansen • Kosloskr
Funeral Horne. 609 Folz
Blvd, Moose Lake, MN.
Gathering 1hr prior to
service at funeral home.
218.485-4429. Memori-
als preferred to The Fund
for Animals.
sister. Virginia Willson of
Salem, OR Survived by
beloved wile. Margaret;
children. Dennis. Linda
(Tom), Doug (Carol).
Teresa (Steve), Judy
(Dennis), Dona
(Devlin), Jim (Char)
and Bob (Carol): 14
grandchildren. 13 great-
grandchildren; brother,
Chester of AZ; sisters,
Helen Patterson of
Yankton, 5D and Vera
Hardy of Salem, DR Lae
member VFW Member
American Legion. Floyd
spent 4 1+2 years over-
seas in the Army. He
worked many years. re-
tiring from lord Fletch-
ers. Mass of Christian
Burial Thursday. 11 AM
at Our Lady of the Lake
Catholic Church. 2385
Commerce Blvd., Mound,
MN, nth visitation Wed.,
5.8 PM at Huber Fu-
neral Home, 1801 Com-
merce Blvd.. and one
hour before Mass at
church. Memorials to
lamity or donor's choice.
MUELLER MORTUARY
651-774-9797
Lindberg
Edward Mahlon, retired
from Honeywell Avionics.
Full notice to follow.
Cremation Society of MN
Mpls- 612 825-2435
EAGAN
Board backs donation of farm acreage
Plans for 34 acres spur quick meeting
BY MARA H. GOTTFRIED
Pioneer Press
Patrick McCarthy's Eagan
farm has been in his family for
about 160 years and now, with
action by the Dakota County
Board on Monday, a portion of it
will be preserved permanently.
The change won't be obvi-
ous, though: McCarthy will still
own the 34 acres and the public
won't have access to it for recre-
ational activities.
But the county board's unan-
imous approval of McCarthy's
donation of a conservation ease-
ment does fit into Eagan's plan
for a "core greenway" - an
unbroken corridor of undevel-
oped land — and the county's
interest in preserving open
space.
"I think this solution ... ends
up to be a win -win for both
Mr. McCarthy and the county,"
said Commissioner Nancy
Schouweiler.
The board's decision came in
an unusual emergency meeting
called Monday. Because
McCarthy's brother and co-
owner of the land, James,
passed away, McCarthy owes
estate taxes on the property.
McCarthy's donation of the con-
servation easement is tied to a
tax credit and an Internal Rev-
enue Service deadline meant
the county approval was
required no later than Monday,
but the county only learned last
week of McCarthy's donation.
That's not to say McCarthy
was driven strictly by financial
gain. He often has talked about
his desire to preserve the land,
said Jack Conrad, a co-chair-
man of the steering committee
of Friends of Patrick Park, an
Eagan citizens' group aiming to
preserve land.
The 34 acres, north of
Wescott Road, have been
assessed at $3.4 million.
"He clearly could have
cashed in years ago and been
wealthier than most of us will
ever be, but this was his wish, to
preserve the land and live out
his days there," Conrad said.
Though the easement, which
will prevent the land from being
altered by development or oth-
erwise, came as a donation,
there are still some costs associ-
ated with it, said Kurt Chatfield,
the county's senior planner.
Primarily, the county will
need to inspect the land annual-
ly to ensure it's not being devel-
oped.
The commissioners' main
concern Monday was that the
public wouldn't be able to use
the land. McCarthy is allowed to
create trails on the preserved
land, but they won't be available
to the public, unless an agree-
ment is worked out_
McCarthycouldn't be
reached for comment, but his
attorney, Rollin Crawford, said
his client is happy that the land
will be preserved.
The 134-acre farm, the last
operating in Eagan, was passed
down to McCarthy by his great-
grandfather, who bought it from
Minnesota's first governor,
Henry Sibley. The area donated
includes a lake, oak trees, farm-
land and wetlands.
McCarthy has shown inter-
est in preserving more of his
land. He plans to seek grants
from the state Natural
Resources department and a
Dakota County program to
acquire and improve open
space, natural areas and farm-
land, the result of a $20 million
referendum voters approved
last fall.
Mara H. Gottfried can be reached
at mgottfriedCpioneerpress.com
or 65 t-228.5262.
PHOTOS BY SCOTT TAKUSHI, PIONEER PRESS
end at
�tition
concluded its
Monday at
alcon Heights.
Tories of
iese riders in
eir horses
:ompete.
ihed Misty, a
I placed fifth
on on Monday.
wi new e`ort
BY JOHN WELSH
Pioneer Press
Gov. Tim Pawlenty announced a
new reading initiative Monday that
he hopes will help kids struggling in
this key academic area at a time
when school districts are cutting
program and increasing class sixes
Pawlenty introduced the pro-
gram on the day the federal gov-
ernment named Minnesota a recip-
ient of a $59 million grant through
its Reading First program. The
state collects $17.3 million now and
will receive the rest over the next
six years.
The money will be used to fund
reading academies to train early
elementary teachers and to create
reading programs at 20 schools with
high poverty levels. Other parts of
the initiative include creating a new
reading assessment for young stern
in their first years of schooL
The grant will continue efforts
begun in 2000, when the state
received a three-year, $24 million
federal grant for reading programs.
"We have a significant achieve-
ment gap in Minnesota, and one of
the ways to close that achievement
READING PROGRAM, 3B
RADIO STILLWATER
by James Hohmann
eta--;rr�ef
GRAND OPENING: Eastview
Student Council President Molly
Sauerbry helps cut the ribbon
Saturday to officially open the new
pavilion at Eagan Central Park.
A New Park forJthe Heart of Eagan
l It s 144„. it
The city of Eagan opened a new
community center on Saturday to
broaden an already wide range of city
services. The new 60-acre Central Park
sits nestled in the heart of Eagan
between the corporate centers of
Lockheed Martin and Unisys.
It is not Central Park in New York
City, but it is exactly what many folks
in Eagan have been working towards
for years.
The Community Center offers a
community center with a play area for
kids, a senior center, a teen center,
gyms, a fitness center and banquet
rooms. The Park has a band shell, a
pavilion and a gazebo
The projecffhas been in the pipeline
for years. The event was a realization
of dreams for a few Eagan residents.
The $23,5 million project was approved
by voters in a 2000 levy.
A well coordinated grand opening
included representatives of more than
fifty community groups, including a
contingent from the Eastview Student
Council. At least 1,500 people were
expected to have braved the windy
and overcast weather.
Student Council President Molly
Sauerbry (accompanied by Grant
Anderson and Briana Hewitt) helped
cut the ribbon to officially open the
Pavilion area of the new park.
wwwmnSumeorn
b-3
The last roundup
Hundreds turned out for the final weekend of horseback riding and trail rides at
Diamond T Ranch in Eagan Oct. 4 and 5.This group of riders makes its way across
Lthe ranch, nearing the end of the ride.
N
gan edition
/ 6(F/
CURRENT
An acting
role he can
relate to
Eagan's Garrett Lukin stars
in 'Sweet Nothing in My Ear'
at Mixed Blood Theatre
BY JOSHUA NICHOI.S
Sun Newspapers
t wasn't difficult for Gar-
rett Lukin to find a connec-
tion to the first two roles he
has taken on in his young acting
career.
During the summer of 2002.
the 10-year-old Eagan resident
played the title role in Tom
Sawyer in a community theater
production, a role he said he iden-
tified with because he, too. likes
to "goof off" and play around
with his friends.
But he has an even deeper con-
nection with his newest role. that
of a boy who is losing his hearing
in Mixed Blood Theatre's produc-
tion of "Sweet Nothing in My
Ear."
Garrett has total hearing loss
in his left ear and his older broth-
er. Trent. has total hearing loss.
"1 definitely feel closer to the
part because of my own experi-
ence." Garrett said. "It's been a
great role to play."
The play opened Oct. 8 and will
run Thursdays -Sundays through
Eagan resident Garrett Lukin, 10. stars in "Sweet Nothing in My Ear" at
Mixed Blood Theatre along with Gabriel Jarret (left) and Terrylene (right),
who play his parents.The production is Garrett's second time acting in a
play.
Sunday, Nov. 2. at the Alan Page
Auditorium in Mixed Blood The-
atre. 1501 S. Fourth St.. Min-
neapolis-
The play centers around a fam-
ily with a wife who is hearing im-
paired and a husband who can
hear.
ACTING: To Page 22A
SunmCurrsnt/Thursday, Oct. 9, 2003
is' Hottest Ha oween Event
141V
-19, 2 26, 30-31 from 7 to l l pm
Sunda Matinees from 5 to 7pm
-966-8215
t.com • Hwy. 169 to 41 North, Shakopee
Regal royalty
Henry Sibley High School seniors Darrel Davenport and Anni
fore their thrones atter being crowned Sibley's homecoming
ing the Sept. 29 coronation. Homecoming events took place
the week culminating in the parade and homecoming game
S110R'Ir
Breast cancer benefit
scheduled for Oct. I
To help find a cure for breast cancer,
the Susan G. Komen Foundation, Le Cor-
don Bleu Programs at Brown College,
and dozens of Minnesota area chefs and
businesses are s
food and entertai
The event beg
Oct. 11, at Brown
Drive in Mendot
semiformal eve
proceeds benefi
Foundation . In
are of yourself - Take care of others
the ha
. A story in some
editions Sunday had
a headline saying
Eagan's new
community center
was "in the red." The
city didn't intend the
center to initially be
self-sustaining, and
the center is within
its budget.
a A C„nrlau
tickets matched all
numbers.
N.xt drawing:
Wednesday
Jackpot Si million
WISCONSIN
SUPERCASH
Monday: 2, 4, 5, 11,
20, 28
Sunday: 5, 13, 18, 21,
31, 36
WISCONSIN
. . vs •
22A Apple Valley/Rosemount, Eagan Sun,CurrentlThursday, Oct. 9, 2003
Acting
From Page IA
When doctors inform them that their
young son, played by Garrett. is losing
his hearing but is a candidate for a
cochlear implant that would restore
some hearing, their once -harmonious
relationship is splintered.
The mother wants her child to remain
a member of the hearing impaired cul-
ture with its own traditions and lan-
guage, but the father wants the child to
have the implant.
The play is performed in American
Sign Language and spoken English with
a cast of both hearing and non -hearing
actors.
Garrett's reason for turning to acting
may be a surprising one.
"It was mostly pure boredom." he
T v!'_AIf NnTT('Vc
said. "It was summer and I didn't have
anything else to do, so it seemed like
something fun to do."
After he started in the community
theater production of Tom Sawyer, the
interest really took hold.
"It was awesome," he said of the ex-
perience. "I had a ton of fun and it was
unbelievable. There were a lot of other
kids involved and when we weren't work-
ing we spent our time goofing oft."
His interest in acting certainly didn't
take his mother, Sylvia Lukin, by sur-
prise.
"He's kind of always had a passion for
drama." Lukin said_ "He's always loved
doing this sort of thing."
Despite the production requiring a
seven -week commitment from Garrett,
Lukin said he is handling it well. She
said his teachers at Woodland Elemen-
tary School in Eagan have been support-
ive and have worked to make it easy for
Garrett to succeed.
Garrett said doing the play, which has
required him to do more homeschooling
and make up missed homework, has
been a "big challenge" but that he has
had a lot of help getting through it.
aiMma
1
red
be
The play had been a very different ex-
perience from the one he had as Tom
Sawyer, Garrett said.
"In Tom Sawyer I had lots of lines and
it was a lot more work, but it was still
fun," he said. "In this one. I don't have to
do as much so it's been a lot easier."
Garrett found out about the part in
the play through his brother, who is an
interpreter for the production.
"They found out I could sign and they
wanted me to do the part." Garrett said.
-At first I told them it was too big right
now, but Jack Reuler [Mixed Blood's
artistic director] kept sending me letters
asking me to do it. After the third letter I
finally said 1 would give it a chance."
At first he was worried that the role
would be a little harder. but he found that
with fewer lines and the support of the
adult actors in the production, it has
been almost as enjoyable as his stint as
Tom Sawyer.
The play stars several other seasoned
actors in the main roles, including Ter-
rylene, one of the country's leading
hearing impaired actresses well known
for her recurring role in the television
series "Beauty and the Beast," Guthrie
Theater stalwart Sally Wingert and
Gabriel Jarret, who has appeared in
"Apollo 13" and on "The West Wing."
rt
If
"They'rejust the coolest people," Gar-
rett said. "They've been so nice and
friendly and they've made it easy. They
are just so cool. They are these profes-
sional actors and they've accepted me
and helped me through everything."
Lakin said the issues covered by the
play are ones that are familiar to her
family. With two of her children being
hearing impaired. her family speaks not
only English but also American Sign
Language. Garrett started learning how
to sign at the age of 3.
www.mn8un.com
"It's a very real -life drama," Lukin
said. "For myself from raising a child
that is deaf, I can really relate to this play.
These parents both want to do what is
best for their child."
Garrett was born hearing but started
developing hearing loss in his left ear be-
tween preschool and kindergarten. He
has begun wearing hearing aides for the
past two years while at school.
"I didn't really understand when I was
younger, but I've learned a lot about my
hearing loss since then," Garrett said.
"It's really not that big of a deal. It's like
big whoop, no problem and it's just been
part of who I am."
Reuler said the play, which originally
premiered in Los Angeles in 1998, is part
of Mixed Blood's effort to expand on its
mission of addressing artificial barriers
to people succeeding in American soci-
ety
"Sweet Nothing in My Ear" expands
on that effort, clarifying that deaf cul-
ture is not a disability while tackling a
topic that is as hotly debated within the
deaf communities as it is between the
deaf and hearing worlds." Reuler said.
That the play also combines both sign
language and speaking parts is some-
thing Lukin finds unique.
"It's just exciting that a play like this
is being done at the Mixed Blood Theatre
that reaches out to both those who can
hear and those who cannot. Anyone who
had ever been part of that world, if they
went to the play they could easily relate
to it and others who have not been ex-
posed to that world would get a new in-
sight."
Lukin said the play has been a great
learning experience for Garrett.
"He's having just a great time and he's
met up with some great actors and ac-
tresses," Lukin said. "The experience
has been even better than we imagined-"
However. she admits that when open-
ing night rolls around. she was likely to
be the more nervous of the two.
"I probably get more nervous than he
does." Lukin said. "He just loves doing
this sort of stuff. It comes very natural
for him and he just doesn't get that ner-
vous about it."
Garrett doesn't necessarily agree
with his mother's assessment.
"1 am definitely going to be real ner-
vous," he said of opening night. "But I'm
just going to have to go out there and give
it my best shot."
His admissions of nerves out of the
way. Garrett said that he is already
thinking about majoring in theater once
he gets to college and maybe making a
career out of acting.
"I love acting," Garrett said. "It's just
an awesome experience and 1 want to
keep doing it."
Tickets are $10 for 8 p.m. Thursday
performances, $19 for 8 p.m. Fridays, $22
for 7 p.m. Saturdays and $16 for Sunday
performances at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. For
more information or for tickets, call 612-
3.38.6131 or visit wwwmixedblood,com.
Home for
children
short on
funding
By Tom Ford
Star Tribune Staff Writer
For Mary to Copeland, the
path to finally building her Ea-
gan children's home and
school contin-
ues to be a
rocky and un-
certain one.
Since get-
ting the go-
ahead from city
leaders last De-
-1 cember, Cope -
Copeland land has raised
.5 million for
the home, which she had hoped
to start building next year.
That leaves her about $26.5
million short of the total con-
struction costs and without an
idea of when the project can
begin.
"I can't say that we will
build the home by 2005,- she
said. "I feel bad for the kids be-
cause they're still waiting."
While the controversial
home remains on hold, the city
of Eagan has already complet-
ed several utility and street im-
provements around Cope-
land's property, which lies near
Hwy. 55 and Lone Oak Road.
At a cost of about $475,000,
the city built a frontage road
near the site and extended wa-
ter pipes and sewer along Hwy.
55, About $16$,000 of that cost
will be assessed to Copeland
and her husband. Other area
property owners will pay
shares of the cost as well.
Tom (Tolbert, Ea an's public
works director, said that while
the improvements were part o'
the city's plans, the Copeland!
petitioned for them to be com
pleted.
14OME oon_MlII on SS
AR TRIBUNE SOUTH
•
AGE SG - 0(T08ER B - 100?
OME from Si
Colbert said that further im-
ovements, such as the exten-
an of a water main to the
ea, could be delayed if the
ime construction continues
lag. That matter will be ad-
essed at a Nov. 6 public hear-
g before the Eagan City
)uncil.
Opposition to the proposed
;ift of Mary Children's
ame" — which would serve
flout 200 abused and neglect-
i children — has followed the
oject for several years- Critics
we argued that foster homes
•e a better setting for dis-
aced children than a orphan-
Copeland's plans were re-
acted by four Twin Cities area
ommunities before Eagan
agreed to rezone the 36-acre
site.
Among its opponents was
Council Member Meg Tilley,
who cast the sole vote against
the project last December in a
4-1 vote to approve it.
Tilley said the city should
have taken more time before
approving the project because
many questions, such as Cope-
land's ability to raise the mon-
ey necessary to build and oper-
ate the home. were not fully
answered.
Tilley said that Copeland's
current struggles don't surprise
her.
"It's just such a big under-
taking, especially without the
support of the whole commu-
nity," she said.
Much of Copeland's current
funding is from a $3 million do-
nation from the Target Corp.
that was used to buy the land.
The project has also received
$500,000 to build a gymnasium
and a Si million pledge that is
designated for operating costs.
Copeland blames the soft
economy and the debate sur-
rounding the project as rea-
sons for the poor fundraising.
"I think sometimes people
aren't aware 1 need the mon-
ey," she said.
Despite her struggles, Cope-
land said she's not giving up.
"I don't get discouraged,"
she said. "If I stop working for
this home, who's going to be
the voice for the kids? ...1 will
build this home somehow."
Tom Ford is at
tfordirstartribune-com.
Postal Service
looks at Eagan
for new center
BY MARA H. GOTTFRIED
Pioneer Press
The U.S. Postal Service is studying whether to
"elocate its downtown St. Paul distribution center
o Eagan, after Arden Hills spurned its advances.
But Eagan is only one of several south metro
(ties the Postal Service could consider. The agency
dans to put out a solicitation for sites this month.
Since moving to Arden Hills became moot last
ionth, a Postal Service spokesman said he thinks
ie agency has had a meeting with only one city --
agar. Nothing has been set in stone since last
•eek's meeting. said Jim Stanley, Postal Service
POSTAL SERVICE, 3B
ST. PAUL PIONEER PRESS ■
/0
1
rjo3
U.S. Postal
Service 11,, lone Oak t' Rd.
property T Clubview
/—I Dr.
45J3 Q „
OANOTA EAGAN
COUNTY
N Yankee Doodle Rtl'.
P'ONEER PRESS
Postal
Service
(continued)
spokesman for the Northland
District.
"It was a preliminary
engineering investigation,
and no decision has been
made," Stanley said. "It's one
option we wanted to investi-
gate."
After opting against the
Arden Hills site because of
community opposition, the
Postal Service now plans to
solicit offers for one or more
industrial properties or exist-
ing buildings in the Inter-
state 494/35E/35W corridor,
Stanley said.
Fbr years, St. Paul boost-
ers have urged the Postal
Service to move the St. Paul
Processing and Distribution
Center so its prime down-
town location on the Missis-
sippi River could he used as a
transit hub or developed for
other uses. Postal Service
officials, in turn, contend the
downtown site no longer
meets their needs.
U.S. Rep. Betty McCollum,
D-St. Paul, has pushed for
relocating the downtown
center, and her office wel-
comed news that the Postal
Service is considering Eagan
and other cities.
I think this potentially is
*very positive development,"
Mid Bill Harper, McCollum's
chief of staff. "'They're out
there engaging communities,
and that's good to see."
Earlier, the agency had
looked at Rosemount and
Lakeville as possible sites, but
those sites were seen as being
too far from major transporta-
tion routes, Stanley said.
Dakota County Board
('h:iinnan Will Branning said
he hopes the Postal Service
also will consider other sites
in the county-. He still believes
that Rosemount would be an
ideal spot.
"1 think they would be
remiss to not look at all the
resources that would be
available for them," Bran-
ning said.
The Postal Service already
owns the site in Eagan. The
Minneapolis -St. Paul Bulk
Mail Center, built in 1973 on
Lexington Avenue between
Yankee Doodle and Lone Oak
roads, sits on 96 acres in all.
"When were investigat-
ing a purchase of a site or
existing land, we examine
the potential," Stanley said.
"The bulk mail center sits on
a relatively large site. What
we need to know is can it be
expanded and by how much?
We know that the expansion
of an existing facility often is
more economical."
During the meeting in
Eagan, a Postal Service con-
sultant was vague about
whether the potential project
would move all or some of the
St. Paul operations to Eagan,
said Jon Hohenstein, Eagan's
community development
director. The consultant told
city staff that he would identi-
fy development and site
issues for the property and
prepare prospective site
plans that would use a large
portion of the site.
The Eagan ('ity Council
hasn't discussed the expan-
sion, but the project wouldn't
he without some concerns,
including increased traffic,
said Mayor Pat Geagan.
The bulk mail center
could be doubled or tripled,
Hohenstein was told during
the meeting. A larger facility
would mean more employ-
ees, who could be expected
to spur economic benefits by
shopping and eating nearby,
Hohenstein said.
The Postal Service likely
would face less opposition
than in Arden Hills, since the
agency owns the land in
Eagan and the city can't
develop it.
"Wo've seen it's not a good
idea to push a facility like this
into a city," said U.S. Rep.
John Kline, R-Lakeville, who
represents much of Dakota
County. "But in this case, the
Dakota County commission-
ers are interested in having it
in the county, and if Eagan is
supportive, lthink it would be
- a good thing_
DA"TXTTY "l?
Higher home
values add
to tax bill
BY BOB SHAW, BRIAN BONNER
and MARA GOTTFRIED
Pioneer Press
Homeowners are bracing for the Catch•22 of tax-
ation: Even if city tax rates fall, residents often pay
more.
That's because their home values are increasing
fast enough to overtake the tax cuts, according to
an early peek at the preliminary 2004 budgets for
the five biggest cities in Dakota County.
City officials always worry about explaining the
situation to taxpayers. But this year, some of them
also must break the news that tax rates are going
up, largely because of large cutbacks in state ald_
"We have no new people in this budget, no new
services," said Apple Valley Finance Director
George Ballenger. "But we have over 2,000 more
TAX BILL, 6B
6B ANS WEDNESIDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2003
LOCAL NEWS
FROM PAGE 1B
Tax bill
(continued)
citizens, increased miles of
streets and more businesses."
The preliminary 2004 budg
ets are the first since Gov. Tim
Pawlenty and the Legislature
slashed Local aid programs in
the face of a $4.2 billion short-
fall. But they also shackled the
cities financially — forbidding
them to raise more than 60 per-
cent of those cutbacks through
their own taxes.
That's not fair, Ballenger
said "We should all be working
together, not clobbering each
other over the head."
The preliminary budgets for
Eagan, Burnsville, Apple Valley,
Lakeville and Inver Grove
Heights show how widely prop-
erty taxes vary. The lowest -tax
suburb, Eagan, is going lower
again in 2004, taxing a $200,000
home $544_ That's a drop of $34.
Burnsville, with the highest
taxes on a $200,000 home, is rais-
ing taxes by 6 percent to $791.
But there's a catch.
The mythical $200,000 house
would be worth the same year
to year only if, say, a meteorite
smashed into one of the bed-
rooms_ Houses in Dakota Coun-
ty will increase in value in the 9
percent range — which means
even when tax rates fall. the
amount paid can increase.
Scott Holm understands this.
A 16-year Eagan resident and
owner of a remodeling company,
Reliable Builders, Holm may be
paying more next year, but he
doesn't consider that a tax
increase.
"The taxes are up only
because my house is appreciat-
ing," said Holm. "i think it's a
great thing that the rate is going
down."
Even some tax hawks are
forgiving the increases. Lonny
Wallace, a real estate appraiser
and a member of the anti -tax
group Twin City Republican
Association, lives with his fami-
ly in a three -bedroom house in
Burnsville. It's worth about
$194,000.
This year, he will pay $577 for
city taxes. But next year, with a
tax rate increase and normal
appreciation of value, hell prob-
Taxes up or down?
City property tax rates are jumping
every which way, according to
preliminary 2004 budgets for the
five biggest Dakota County cities.
Burnsville
Taxes on a S200,000 home' S791
2004 taxes Up I• Down
DAKOTA
COUNTY
Area of
detail
r
ably pay about $670.
"This one time, it's OK," said
Wallace, because the city must
counter the cuts in state aid.
"Usually, I have a hard time
dealing with tax increases more
than inflation."
Each suburb has different
circumstances and is adapting
to the state aid cuts differently.
EAGAN
espite a $1.4 million cut in
state aid, Eagan is holding
the line in its 2004 budget Its
$21.8 million general fund budg-
et for 2004 is the same as 2003.
"The City Council's policy
was to look at other revenue
sources and not cut any servic-
es per se," said City Administra-
tor Tom Hedges.
Revenue will come by levy-
ing property tax owners for
$800,000 — 60 percent of the cut-
backs in state aid_ But property
tax rates are going down overall
— 6 percent on a $200,000 home
— because the property value in
the city is increasing.
By increasing fees, such as
for liquor licenses or recreation
programs, the city estimates it
will collect an additional
$150,000. And the city will
charge utility operations an
extra $200,000.
On the expenditures side, the
city is saving some money with
personnel shifts, although there
are no layoffs. For example, an
almost $90,000 savings will come
from eliminating two of the
police department's four com-
+6%
Lakeville
S562
-8%
Eagan
S544
Apple
Valley
5144
-6y
Inver
Grove
Heights
5725
-19'
' Taxes on
S200,000 home
each year -- does
not account for
increases in
home value.
PIONEER PRESS
munity service officer positions.
Freezing a grounds mainte-
nance job will bring a $35,000
savings.
BURNSVILLE
Welly Strey, financial account-
j g director, said that
Burnsville's numbers were pre-
liminary. Taxes and revenue
probably would be lower in the
final version, she said.
When the state's budget ax
fell. Burnsville lost $1.9 million
— more than any of the other
five suburbs in the cutbacks_
That's the primary reason
why taxes on a $200,000 house
will increase by 6 percent next
year, more than the other four
suburbs. Yet the planned 1 per-
cent increase in revenue is mod-
est, Strey said.
Also, Strey said that
Burnsville might have slightly
higher taxes partly because it
has a full-time fire department
and less tax capacity than, say,
Eagan.
APPLE VALLEY
finance director Ballenger
r was happy with a $44 drop in
taxes on a $200,000 home, but he
said that drop would have been
more than twice as much with-
out the aid cuts.
Boosts in Apple Valley's busi-
nesses tax revenue are easing
some of the pain. Through July,
said Ballenger, the city had
more than S57 million in new
commercial development on
a pace to shatter last year's total
of $71 million.
"Our hope is to be able to
maintain the same service level
with this budget," he said.
Ballenger guessed the
increase in value of the average
house would be from 12 percent
to 20 percent.
LAKEVILLE
The cuts in state aid hurt
Lakeville more than most
because the budget already is
lean, said Dennis Feller, the
city's finance director. Lakeville
is proud of having lower expens-
es and fewer city employees per
capita than state averages.
But the effect of state -aid
cuts as well as the city's share
of costly new interchanges
along Interstate 35 have taken
their toll. Even though the tax
rates are dropping, the city's
overall revenue will be up
7 percent next year because of
the increasing value of residen-
tial and commercial develop-
ment, and taxes from other
sources_
He called the tax restrictions
"especially punitive for high
growth cities such as Lakeville."
The city has taken unprece-
dented belt -tightening meas-
ures.
Revenue from Lakeville's
liquor stores will go into the
general fund, not into improving
buildings as in the past. Same
with the cable TV franchise
fees, which will pay for a pro-
gram previously financed out of
the general fund.
In addition, a host of other
cutbacks is proposed, including:
. Delaying hiring of new
employees in public safety and
public works.
. Not contributing to the
anti -drug D.A.RE_ programs in
schools.
. Cutting back on beach life-
guards and warming house
attendants.
INVER GROVE HEIGHTS
Inver Grove Heights will
Irecoup 60 percent of next
year's state aid cuts — which
totaled $900,000 — through
increased property -tax revenue.
But that still left city leaders
with a $361,000 hole in next
year's budget. Officials plan to
bridge the gap by not filling two
vacancies and by delaying main-
tenance and purchases, among
a host of other smaller cuts.
LOCAL NEWS
WOODBURY
Advisory groups
have 11 openings
Woodbury is taking applica-
tions for openings on city advi-
sory boards and commissions.
There are 11 openings this
year for five advisory groups.
Appointees serve on a volun-
teer basis and make recom
mendations in different areas,
such as parks. development
proposals and environmental
issues.
The groups include the Eco-
nomic Development Authority
and the Economic Develop-
ment. Environmental Educa-
tion, Park and Recreation and
Planning commissions. Com-
mission members serve three-
year terms; development
authority members serve six
years.
Interested residents can
contact the city administration
at 651-714-3523 to obtain an
application. The application
deadline is Nov. 7. The City
Council will interview appli-
cants on Dec. 6, and new
appointees will begin their
terms in January.
— Megan BoIdt
OAK PARK HEIGHTS
Frontage road traffic
to be limited Oct. 17
Getting to the Washington
County Government Center
and Law Enforcement Center
will be a little harder starting
Oct. 17.
Officials on Tuesday
announced that the frontage
road on the north side of Min-
nesota 36 at Osgood Avenue
North will be closed perma-
nently to customers trying to
reach the government center.
The road closure, approved by
the Minnesota Transportation
Department and the city of Oak
BRIEFING
WEDNESDAY. OCTOBER 8. 2003 S SB
SCOTT TAKUSHI, PIONEER PRESS
WARM -WEATHER CRUISER
Diego Delao wipes down his 1964 Chevy Impala Super Sport towrider on Tuesday after
washing the vehicle. " I was going to put it in storage today until April, but I may get another
couple weeks out of it," said Delao, who was out driving in the warm weather Tuesday. Delao
washes his car three to four times a week, often here at the Big Splash Car Wash on Robert Street in. •
West 5t. Paul. For today's weather forecast, see Page 10B.
Park Heights, will help accom-
modate the expected traffic
flow from the new Walgreen's.
The frontage road will
remain open to serve residents
who live on the frontage road,
but the road will not connect
directly to Osgood Avenue.
A map of the surrounding
roads and parking Tots is avail-
able at
www.co.washington.mn.us
—Mary Divine
WASHINGTON COUNTY
Board honors
child-care providers
Gloria Deziel of Woodbury
and Debbie Wohlwend of Oak-
dale were honored Tuesday as
the 2003 Family Child Care
Providers of the Year by the
Washington County Board.
Deziel, a licensed provider
since 1989 in Washington
County, has an associate
degree in early childhood edu-
cation and worked in a child-
care center as a Montessori
teacher. She frequently pro-
vides training to local and
statewide child-care providers
and other early childhood pro-
fessionals.
Wohlwend, a licensed child-
care provider in Oakdale for
five years, provides daily
reports for parents of infants
and toddlers, titled "Baby
Notes" and "Toddler Tales."
She also creates an event cal-
endar with daily themes such
as bug hunts and "Wear Red"
Day.
Also on Tuesday, the board
honored Samson Den Lepcha
and Carol Roof as the 2003
Center Child Care Providers of
the Year, and Kim Johnson as
the 2003 School Age Caregiver
of the Year.
Den Lepcha has worked as
a preschool caregiver at St,
Croix Academy in Stillwater
for five years; Roof has been a
preschool teacher at the Padea
Child Care Center in Oakdale,
for the past 15 years, and John
son has been a school age
caregiver at the Stonebridge
Adventure Club in Stillwater'
for the past 12 years.
Mary Divine
Cau sty ,conducts bioterrorism training exercise
itiy Laura A
tlu.w1-1-l:.EWSPJPI
A Rosemount officer's call for
back-up drew to a full-scale tacti-
cal mission to counter a mock
biotcrmnsm attack Sept. 27.
The multi -agency training
exercise, conducted at the
University of Minnesota's Umore
Park in Rosemount, was held to
identify deficiencies in the emer-
gency agencies' response to a ter-
rorist attack.
About250 participants.
including agents with federal.
state and local agencies. braved
the chilly early -morning hours to
report for the event. The
Salvation Army and Red Cross
were even on the scene, fully sup-
plied with blankets and hot cof-
fee.
"We want to make it as realis-
tic as possible:' said Apple Valley
Police Chief Scott Johnson. He
said each unit would be evaluated
on their performance including
communications, safety, proper
procedures when handling
Sift isitivra
A major countywide
training exercise was based
on this premise:
Terrorists had taken over
an electrical plant, killing
five and injuring 20 people
they had barricaded them-
selves in another control
room. released an unknown
chemical agent and report-
edly taken hostages.
Unknown substances or .ihtationc
and establishing command units.
To make the situation more
interesting , and instructional.
Dakota County Emergency
Preparedness Coordinator Dave
Gisch said some of the officers
would be purposefully thrown
into a few surprise situations.
Responders were first briefed
on the scenario: Terrorists had
taken over an electrical plant.
killing five and injuring 20 peo-
ple: they had barricaded them -
Some Eagan police officers
bioterrorism training.
selves in a control rrx-mm, released
an unknown chemical agent and
Ph„t,, h, R. i Ornd,rj
Kere in►ohed in the county's
reportedly taken hostages.
See Training, SA
Putting it together :., 112 an senior living
facility wins state award
Hagan ('it} Council members Meg Tilley, left, and Peggy Carlson
add the last pied to the puzzle at the Community Center grand
opening went Sept. 27. For more photon. see Page 22A.
But federal regulations could impact facilities
like Commons on Marice
by Erin Johnson
THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS
The Commons on Marice in
Eagan was recently recognized
as the hest senior living proper-
ty in Minnesota by the
Minnesota Multi -Housing
Association (MBA).
The award. which was based
on design. architecture. market-
ing, financial success, mainte-
nance and resident satisfaction,
was presented to the facility at
the MHA's annual awards cer-
emony in September.
"It's a very prestigious
award. It's a higgie for us," said
Shirleen Hilgenberg, executive
director of The Commons on
Marice. "We have an absolute-
ly beautifully designed building
and an awesome activity pro-
gram. We create activities that
go way beyond the bingo
thing"
The Commons on Marice is
a non-profit senior living com-
munity that serves about 160
seniors. The facility features
apartment -style homes, a two-
story atrium. a restaurant, exer-
cise room, courtyard and sever-
al lounge areas.
The Commons is unique in
many ways, she said. For
instance. the facility is home to
independent as well as assisted
living residents. And seniors
have a laundry list of activities
to choose from. from the annu-
al senior prom and senior
See Commons, 6A
r4, .oeao yr r.a rar yayrrwnrr rti Mel 0 Vt.,. yuyrrwrn a LUX
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Just off l-35W on Cliff SS. Road ad
.e-Midwest for 2001
Top
c ' Commons/From 1A
��1 Sblympics to family and holiday
,�events.�� "The social aspect of our
building is huge." she said. "We
have an excellent dining program
with an executive chef. We have 7
a.m. to 7 p.m. dining, just like a
restaurant. They can come down
whenever they want and order off
a menu. It's not institutional
food"
The energy and compassion at
The Comnxms are evident in the
interaction among resident., and
staff. she said.
"The residents have just such
a great sense of community.
When the judges came for an on -
site visit, they really got that feel-
ing,' she said.
Resident Jeanie Condon can
attest to that. Condon has lived at
The Commons for three years,
and enjoys it so much she has
written two plays based on life at
the senior residence_
Her second play. a romantic
comedy called "You'll Like it
Here IL" will be performed by
residents, staff and family mem-
bers Oct. 23 and Oct. 30 in the
facility's atrium.
''It's kind of like the sitcom
'Friends: except fast -forwarded
40 years." she said. "Unlike
'Fiends; everything in the play
truly represents reality. In fact,
when someone says something
funny or informative, I write it
down and use it. After three years
here,) have a lot of material"
Condon, a cancer survivor
who has mobility issues because
of treatment, said that's why she
moved to The Commons.
"By living in circumstances
that are too difficult to handle,
people are Cheating themselves
out of peace of mind:' she said.
"Living in a place where some-
one else does all the work is a
tremendous relief, not to mention
the wonderful opportunities for
socializing. partaking in activities
and having the time to do what
you want to do. 1 wanted my play
to present the image that living at
a place like The Commons is not
vegetating — it's fun!"
But providers such as the
Goodman Group, which man-
ages The Commons on Manse,
are concerned about the impact
that potential federal regulation
of the assisted living industry
could have on their facilities.
Assisted living facilities are
currently regulated at the state
level. But a recent report handed
down by the U.S. Senate Special
Committee on Aging contains
more than 100 recommendations
for state providers to consider.
States then have two years to
respond to the recommendations.
"The federal government
thinks (assisted living) should
continue to be governed at the
state level, but if it's not satisfied.
it will take over." said Walter
Eisner. a homing and alternative
services specialist for Care
Providers of Minnesota.
There are several different cat-
egories of recommendations out-
lined in the report. including
operations, medication manage-
ment. direct -care services, afford-
ability. accountability and over-
sight.
Agnes l.ehn, director of quali-
ty management for the Goodman
Group, is concerned about any
attempt to standardize services
from state to state.
"Federal directives in each of
these categories could he vastly
different than what we're current-
ly operating under." she said.
"We have very good regulations
in place, but they're different than
other states."
Regulations could end up dic-
tating what services are provided,
rather than what services are
actually needed by residents, she
said.
"And they could require resi-
dents to move to a nursing home,
whether they want to or not. if
their health diminishes to a cer-
tain point" she said.
Work groups of providers are
currently being mobilized across
the state to form a response for
the federal government. she said.
"All providers within the state
have the opportunity to he a part
of the process;' she said. "We
have to be aware. It may not be a
had thing, but it may truly change
what we're currently providing
and will be able to provide in the
future."
Eisner said his group views
the dialogue between state
providers and the federal govern-
ment as a positive, because it
gives states a chance to address
their own issues. However, he
said he understands why facilities
such as the Commons are wor-
ried.
"Commons on Marice has
good reason to fear this. If the
industry does nothing, assisted
living will take the route of nurs-
ing homes, where everything is
regulated," he said. "If we do
nothing. the feds will jump in and
do it. But by being proactive, we
can have input in a way that's
good to providers and cus-
tomers"
Erin Johnson is at
eagan. th i s week @ ecm- inc. conr-
Thisweek
www.thisweek•online.com
mproved Town Centre area ready for traffic
Changes make congested area more user friendly, city says
by Erin Jobnson
THIS%LEK NEN SP3.1IJ0,
The once congested, and
some say dangerous, Town
Centre area in Eagan should
now be easier to navigate
thanks to some major traffic
improvements.
Construction. which began
in July. was officially complet-
ed this weekend on the shop-
ping area. which is home to
more than 80 businesses.
The S957.000 project
improved five problem areas
identified on Town Centre
Drive, Duckwood Drive.
Denmark Avenue and
Krestwood Lane.
"Town Centre, portions of
Denmark and portions of
Duckwood are the busiest city
streets in town:' said Russ
Mathys. Eagan city engineer.
19.
•
Pfrte r.. bm 1.h,.,...,
City workers finish up the last of construction in the Town
Centre area.
"There are about 11.000 to everyday. It is probably one of
14,000 vehicles on Town Centre the areas with the highest num-
ber of accidents in town"
The area was originally
scheduled to receive only a new
layer of blacktop, but the
increase in traffic and pedestri-
an volumes raised concerns
about public safety and accessi-
bility.
City engineers, talking
amongst themselves. discov-
ered that they were each avoid-
ing the area because it was so
congested and difficult to navi-
gate. he said.
"We wondered, 'Is that just
us?' — because we're kind of
different, we're engineers — or
is it a real problem?"
The city used its Web site to
solicit public input on improve-
ments that could be made to the
Town Centre area. Signs were
posted at major intersections
See Improvements, 6A
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bA October 4. 2003 THISWEEK
Improvements/from 1 A
inviting citizens to participate in
the survey either by phone or on
the city's Web site.
About 800 e-mail and more
than 150 telephone responses
from citizens were received.
Results showed that 86 per-
cent of respondents had concerns
about accessing or leaving busi-
nesses in the area, and 61 percent
said they avoided businesses in
that area because of their safety
and accessibility concerns.
The city formed a task force of
five business representatives and
five representatives from the gen-
eral public to review the survey
results and make traffic recom-
mendations for the area.
The task time recommended
several improvements, which the
Eagan City Council approved
with some minor modifications.
Improvements included the
cc.
relocation of driveway entrances
to Rainbow Foods and Wal-Mart.
a new traffic signal at the inter-
section of Duckwood Drive and
Town Centre Drive, and a side-
walk along one side of Town
Centre Drive.
Town Centre Drive was
reduced from four lanes to three
lanes, with the center lane desig-
nated for left turns and a wider
shoulder area for right turns.
Shoulders can now he used by
bicyclists, as well.
Some intersections received
new right and left -turn lane desig-
nations, and tall trees and shrubs
were removed from some areas
for better visibility.
Pedestrian crosswalks were
added to the intersection of Town
Centre and Duckwood, along
with buttons on the traffic lights
to push for a walk signal. There
were already buttons on the traf-
fic lights at Denmark and Town
Centre. Mathys said, but they
were made more accessible for
pedestrians. A small sidewalk
was also added around the back
of Rainbow Foods.
'"Mat was a comment we got
from seniors, They could get up
to the intersection. but they may
or may not be able to reach the
button. And even if they got
across, there was nowhere to get
across to. So we provided a little
bit of a sidewalk there," he said.
The Town Centre shopping
area was originally designed
about 17 years ago. when Eagan
was a much smaller community,
Mathys said.
"I think you had a young com-
munity that was excited about
getting businesses in,' he said.
"I3ecause of the excitement, they
may have allowed some things to
occur that maybe didn't meet the
standards. They may or may not
have foreseen the potential popu-
larity of the area, although they
were hoping for that'
The city wa.s determined to
make the transition go as smooth-
ly as possible for area businesses
during construction, he said.
Business owners were updated
weekly by e-mail throughout
construction. and the city gave
each business a schedule of
which days they would he direct-
ly affected by construction.
For instance. Caribou Coffee
printed "construction coupons"
that gave discounts on coffee
while work was being done in
front Of its store.
"They were able to base that
on the schedule we provided
them.' Mathys said. „I've been
doing stuff like this for 16 years.
and this is probably the best proj-
ect I've worked on. From the
whole communication process,
working with the public, getting
the public input...it realty has
gone very well."
Pat Thomas. owner of Eagan
Floral and a member of the Town
Centrr task force, said she wa
not only impressed with the corr
munication between the city ar
businesses. but by the city
efforts to keep the constructioi
process as unobtrusive as poss..
ble.
'The city did a very good jot.
of keeping the traffic flow going.'
she said. "When they had to close
Duckwood Drive, they got in and
got out quickly. The inconven-
ience was minimal."
Thomas said she is pleased
with the changes to the area.
"1 think the improvements are
going to make it much easier for
people to get to the businesses
they need to get to. at a reason-
able cost:' she said. "(The city)
did a good job of keeping the
stores informed of what was
going on. They made it a very
easy happening"
Erin Johnson is at
eagan tius+rrek4g tern- inc. corn.
Man charged with embezzling
$1 million from Eagan business
by jobn Sucarrsky
THIS% k.K VI:WSF'APLILS
Daniel Lee Demarais. 40, of
Lakeville, turned himself in
Oct. 7 on charges of failure to
file a tax return, theft of corpo-
rate property and theft by swin-
dle in connection with allegedly
stealing SI million from his
Eagan employer since October
of 2002.
A release from Dakota
County Attorney James
Backstrom. said the Minnesota
Department of Revenue began
investigating Demarais for
potential tax violations in
September 2003. This investi-
gation was initiated by reports
of unusual financial transac-
tions by Demarais at his credit
I
Daniel Lee Demarais
union.
The investigation, run by
Minnesota Department of
See Charged, 7A
4'r//e.?
Charged/from 1A
Revenue Agent, and former
Lakeville Detective, Mike
Server, revealed there was no
record of Demarais filing a
Minnesota income tax return
for tax years 2000-2002. It
also revealed large sums of
money had been deposited and
withdrawn from Demarais'
credit union account.
During an interview with an
agent, Demarais allegedly
admitted be did not file a
Minnesota income tax return
in 2001 and 2002, and that
since March 2003, he had
allegedly taken $400.000 to
$500.000 from his employer
without consent. He also con-
fessed to writing approximate-
ly $200,000 in checks on his
employer's checking account
to cover personal debts.
Demarais told the agent that
he had spent the money on
gambling and that he had a
gambling addiction. An
accountant for the employer
documented that Demarais had
allegedly embezzled
$978,181.21 between Oct. 18.
2002 and Aug. 8. 2003.
Backstrom said, 'This is the
largest embezzlement crime
ever prosecuted in Dakota
County and appears to be
another sad example of crimi-
nal activity motivated by gam-
bling"
Demarais. if convicted of
all seven counts, could face up
to 20 years in prison, and/or up
to $100,000 in fines. in addi-
tion to having to pay taxes on
the money he allegedly embez-
zled.
Server has only been
employed with the Department
of Revenue for 2 1/2 months.
I0
He said he has already worked
several cases, but this one was
an incredibly high profile case.
He speculated no other agent
has worked a case like this
before in the state of
Minnesota.
The case was also unusual
in its turn -around time. Server
said the connections he devel-
oped as a detective in
Lakeville aided him in com-
pleting this investigation.
According to statistics
developed by the Minnesota
Department of Revenue, 12
percent a Minnesota residents
TH1SWEEK October 11, 2003 7A
do not comply with state
income tax laws and obliga-
tions, which creates a $660-
$770 million annual shortfall
in Minnesota income tax. In
the fiscal year 2002, the
department collected approxi-
mately $25.4 million through
direct individual income tax
audit assessments, reduced
refunds by auditing returns as
they are processed, and from
non -filers.
John Sucansky is at
roselake. thi sweek @ ecm-
inc. cone.
Council takes stand
against cable TV bill
Potential loss of francbise fees would equal
loss of city revenue
by Erin Jobwsorr
THIS K'Ft. K NEWSPAPERS
The Eagan City Council
took a stand Oct. 7 against a
proposed U.S. Senate bill that
could eliminate cable franchise
fees the city currently collects
as revenue.
According to the League of
Minnesota Cities. cities charge
franchise fees as a kind of
"rent" for the use of public
rights -of -way by cable
providers who use public prop-
ny for private gain.
The loss of those fees would
.. ve a major impact on Eagan's
ommunications budget, which
entirely funded by franchise
es. That revenue is also used
support the city's local cable
ccess station. Burnsville
.igan Community Television
liECt), which broadcasts city
owncil meetings. local sports
. ents and local political and
religious programming, among
other things.
Last year, Eagan collected
more than S490.000 in fran-
chise fees. In addition to cover-
ing the city's communications
budget and supporting BECT,
funds were used to improve
technology in the Community
Room in City Hall and to
extend cable to the Eagan
Community Center.
"That's a pretty significant
amount of dollars." said City
Administrator Tom Hedges. "[
think our consumers and cus-
tomers see the value of cable
TV and what we're attempting
to do in terms of addressing
communications and informa-
tion."
Several groups. including
the League of Minnesota Cities
and the National League of
Cities. have rallied to oppose
the bill and protect the right of
cities to collect franchise fees.
from cable providers. including
cable modem subscriptions.
"These two bills
strike right at the
heart of our ability to
control our
programming"
— Alan Miller
MEMBER. BURNSVILLE
EAGAN
TELECOMMUNICATIONS
COMMISSION
The bill has already been
passed by the House and is on
its way to the Senate.
"What you'll find (in the
bill) is a major tinkering with
franchise fees and what would
become the inability to do a
number of things at the local
levels of government as it
relates to cable television and
communications, which we rely
very heavily on for our con-
stituency." Hedges said.
Tom Garrison, communica-
tions director for the city of
Eagan, said the scope of the bill
keeps appearing to broaden.
causing concern that "by some
interpretations, they could
strike at the heart of all fran-
chise fees. leaving cities in a
very disadvantaged position."
Alan Miller. a member of the
Burnsville Eagan
Telecommunications
Commission. spoke to the
council about the affect the bill
could have on public access
channels.
"If we didn't have cable tel-
evision, our people, our sub-
scribers, our constituents,
would not be able to enjoy the
programming that they enjoy."
he said. "These two hills strike
right at the heart of our ability
to control our programming.
What they would do is give a
See Cable, 7A
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Applications Available for
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Applications are available for Lakeside Pointe a senior•
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Drive in Eagan. Lakeside Pointe is currently under
construction and will be completed in April 2004.
pte mtu ut� nunts,un-wg.ur
Savage schoolconununity. i
Vicki Roy has served on the •
ISD 191 hoard for 12 years, six`'
of which she was elected chair.
She is recognized statewide as a
leader in public school educa-`
lion, having served as chair .of ,
the board of the Association of
Metropolitan School Districts
for 2001-2002; and is one of the
Minnesota School Boards
Association's' 20 • statewide
Ambassadors for Public
Education.
1 believe residents of the'
school district are fortunate i
indeed that Vicki Roy has choL
sen to seek re-election, and 1'
hope she is returned to office
with a resounding victory.
CONNIE MORRISON
Burnsville
Choose best
candidates —
including
Rob Duchscher
To the editor:
As the election for our
School Board members draws
it, near, I hope everyone in District
196 takes the time to know the
Thanks to Eagan;
police .
To the editor:
1 would like to thank the.
Eagan 'Police Department for
taking time out to come. to our
house, with a cake in hand, to,
give our son, Philip; the Youth
Safety Award._
1t is nice' to see the police!
force encourage our youth to do •
"good deeds" and to acknowl-
edge them.
The event made an impact
not only on Philip, but the neigh-i
borhood children were'
impressed that the police would
take time out for kids with this',
positive gesture.
STEVE and DIANE ROTHER ,
Eagan
For many; Oct. 1JJ
was important
'lb the editor:
Most Minnesotans didn't.
mark Oct. 1 on their calendars,
but for many people it was an
important day. A number of
sweeping changes made to state
health care programs during the
2003 leislative: sessibn-twen'
Excellence in Education. judg-
ing spelling bees and science
fairs, and reading to students
during 1 Love to Read Month.
have seen Vicki Roy work
hard for our.community. During
her time as chair of District
191's,School Board. she proved
to be a valuable leader in our
community. She listens to peo- •
pie. understands the issues, and
has shown she is thinking with
Our youth's best interests in
mind. •
I urge you to vote for Vicki
Roy for the School Board of
District 191. I know she will
make good decisions for the
children.
RYAN M.STROZYK
Burnsville
Honest, sincere
person on board
To the editor: "-•,
Strong. effective board mem ,
bers are needed to advocate for
the students of- Burnsville -
Eagan -Savage School District
191 and to make sound public
policy that benefits all of ourstu-
dents. Vicki Royzis that strong,
, effective board •member, eT
_%n.1 .. Y.rl•-
Cable/from 1A
free ride to the providers to use
our rights of way. Ultimately. 1
think that providers would like
to get back some of the chan-
nels that have been with the
city."
Losing half a million dollars
would drive BECT right out of
the community access televi-
sion business, he said.
"We couldn't handle that in
today's budget crunch without
imposing a burden on the con-
stituents of the city. That's not
right," he said. "Only the
providers would benefit. 1 can't
understand an administration
which talks of home rule and
state's rights and local govern-
ment. then embraces a bill such
as this, which takes away all of
the above."
The Congressional Budget
Office estimates it would cost
cities across the country $80
billion to $ 120 billion a year in
lost revenue. he said.
"At a time when they can ill
afford to lose it," he said.
The council not only adopt-
ed a resolution opposing the
bill. but also directed city staff
to send letters and make phone
calls to state senators and con-
gressional delegates.
"A resolution is all fine and
good, but we need to fax this,
mail this and call," said
Council
Fields.
Council Member Mike
Maguire said he would like to
sec added to the resolution a
statement about the importance
of cable access programming
Member
Cyndee to the fiber of a community.
"It's not just a matter of get-
ting to see our shining faces on
city council meetings, but it's
being able to see community
events, things going on in the
community and staying in
touch with those things." he
said. "Those are particularly
important for a city the size of
Eagan."
Erin Johnson is at
eagan.thisweek@ecm-inc. rom.
Let us help you
with your home needs.
Rates are low which makes it the perfect time to:
• Buy a house
• Refinance your existing mortgage
• Get a home equity loan
Stop in or call Bridget at (651)454-0004 for more information.
MINNWEST
.BANK
Thiswegic
IS'iI1IIIE!IJ_1 www-thisweek-online. coin
11k1
Lack of funding delays orphanage
Copeland still needs $26 million to build children's home
by Erin jobwsow
THISW1-r1( SFWSPAPFRS
Mary Jo Copeland had
hoped to open the doors to Gift
of Mary Children's Home, the
200-bed orphanage planned in
Eagan, next spring.
But after clearing several
hurdles and facing statewide
controversy to get the project
approved, Copeland has hit a
new roadblock — finding
enough money to build it.
"I would have loved to start
in 2004, but there's no way I'm
going to do that." Copeland
said.
Copeland, founder of
Sharing and Caring Hands, still
needs to raise S26 million to
build the children's home. In
addition to finding money for
"1 would have loved to start in 2004, but
there's no way I'm going to do that,"
—Mary Jo Copeland
FOUNDER, SHARING AND CARING HANDS
the construction. Copeland will
need to continue to generate
funding to operate the facility.
Gift of Mary Children's
Home is planned as a privately -
run Rule S group home. set up
as 20 individual townhomes.
Each townhome will accommo-
date up to 10 children. a mar-
ried teaching couple and a fam-
ily assistant to live with the
children around the clock. Plans
also include a community cen-
ter that would house a K- l2 pri-
vate school, a teen center. recre-
ational facilities, a chapel and a
gymnasium.
Copeland and her husband,
Dick. purchased a 26-acre par-
cel of land for the project
between Highway 55 and Lone
Oak Road near the Inver Grove
Heights border in March 2002.
They also purchased several
adjoining properties with exist-
ing houses, bringing the total
project area close to 37 acres.
Copeland raised S3 million
to purchase the land. hut said
she is having trouble raising
money for construction of the
facility.
"I've raised SI million for
operation costs the first year.
but 1 can't put that into the
building," she said.
In addition, she has received
a $500.000 donation for the
facility's gym, and small dona-
tions have come in from the
public.
"Between the economy and
the controversy. there isn't
much happening.' she said.
Copeland said she has raised
"millions" in the past for her
other projects.
See Orphanage, 5A
2A October 11, 2003 THISWEEK
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Widow of McDonald's
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to victims of the 1997
Red River flood. B5
www. startrbune.com/metro
Metro/State
Stariibune
INDEX
Faces & Places
Obituaries
Weather
B45
Be
\lnnday, (k sober 13, 2003 • Section
B
Funds aren't forthcoming
for Eagan children's home
Copeland: Economy, controversy are barriers
By Jean Hopfensperger
Star Tribune Staff Writer
Mary Jo Copeland has enjoyed the
support of President Bush, Gov. Tim
Pawlenty and dozens of Minnesota
movers and shakers.
But shaking loose $26 million in do-
nations to build her children's home
has turned out to be far tougher than
she imagined.
Ten months after the city of Hagan
agreed to be the site of the campus,
which would be home to about 200 chil-
dren, no new major donors have sur-
faced. Small donations are rolling in,
she said, but not enouto take a bite
out of the construction budget.
"It's the economy and the controver-
sy clashing together," said Copeland,
one of Minnesota's best-known social
service leaders.
"I've raised $50 million to pay for all
this," she said, referring to the Sharing
and Caring Hands homeless shelter,
housing program and other services for
poor families in Minneapolis that have
drawn national attention.
"But 1 didn't have to raise it all at
once."
Copeland has struggled for nearly
three years to get her Gift of Mary Chil-
dren's 1 lome off the ground. It took two
years to find a community willing to
house the planned campus, which has
drawn critics who argue that children
belong with families rather than in large
institutions.
PLAN oomenses on et
— Some fast donors are hoJcling out.
— The road to approval: A timeline.
KyndeA Harkness/Star Trt une
Last summer, Mary Jo Copeland listened
to residents of Eagan respond to her plan
for a children's home there.
INSIDE
No strike, at least
Relief appears to be
the dominant feeling
among state employees.
Turn to B2.
Power play?
Critics say a power -
plant proposal got too
many breaks from legis-
lators. Turn to B3.
COIUMBUS DAY
What's open, closed
> Post offices except
for the one at Minneapo-
lis -Si. Paul International
Airport will be closed to-
day, and onl Ex ress
PAGE B2 • STAR TRIBUNE *
METRO/STATE
MONDAY, OCTOBER 13.200:i
State workers'
first reaction:
A sigh of relief
Few relished thought
of 2nd strike since'01
By Matt Mckkmey
Star Tribune Staff Writer
At least the strike is off.
A state worker said Sunday
that she has that to be thankful
for after a bruising round of la-
bor negotiations came to a
close this weekend with the an-
nouncement of a deal.
"I think everybody right
now is just relieved that there is
not going to be a strike," said
Adele Smith, a graphic artist at
the Department of Natural Re-
sources.
Smith was a state employee
two years ago when a strike
was called after union leaders
from $2,200 per year to $3,300
for a family plan under the new
contract; costs will rise from
$1,100 to $1,650 for a single
employee, union leaders said.
Negotiators began their lat-
est round of talks Thursday. It
was a resumption of bargain-
ing that had broken down in
mid -August. Workers' con-
tracts expired June 30.
State workers went on strike
two years ago shortly after the
Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. A ma-
jority of taxpayers polled by the
Star Tribune during that strike
said it was wrong for state em-
ployees to walk off the job,
considering the attacks.
trikes are ve serious
Stunt pilot crashed during high wind
Associated Press
CROMWELL, MINN. — Of-
ficials and witnesses say wind
and a malfunction could have
caused a single -engine plane
crash that killed a seasoned
aerobatic pilot.
Rescuers on Saturday re-
covered the body of Eugene
Frank Marsolek, who died
when his Pitts S2B plane
crashed in Island Lake after 6
p.m. Friday. Marsolek, 52, had
been flying alone in his two -
seat biplane.
"It was windy." said Steve
Bridge, Cromwell fire chief. "If
he was truly doing a stunt, he
could have just lost it to the
wind. The wind was blowing
the plane all over the place."
In addition to the wind,
people reported seeing black
smoke corning from the plane,
as if a gasket had blown and
the engine lost oil, Bridge said.
"It lost power, too." Bridge
said. "So with the combina-
tion of the wind and the loss of
power, he just couldn't handle
it."
Marsolek appeared in a
Duluth air show last month in
the plane that crashed Friday.
"Geno was such a profi-
cient pilot." said Ryan Kern,
president of the Duluth Air
and Aviation Expo. "He knew
his stuff. This guy was an art-
ist; he was good. He was not
some Joe Blow who goes flying
with his family once a week.
Ile flew in the show alongside
the Blue Angels. My gut tells
me it's some sort of airplane
malfunction."
Using an infrared camera.
officials from the Carlton
County Sheriff's Department
and the Minnesota Depart-
ment of Natural Resources
were able to find the plane in
murky water that was 16 to 18
feet deep.
Once the plane is recov-
ered from Island Lake, the
Federal Aviation Administra-
tion will investigate the cause
of the crash.
PLAN from B1
Copeland is pinning hopes
on holiday fundraising
It may take that long again,
or longer, to raise the money
to build the cottages, school
and other facilities Copeland
plans for abused and neglect-
ed children.
Having the kickoff fund-
raising year end in a thud has
been somewhat of a blow to
Copeland. who has been a high-
est project of Copeland, whom
he refers to as "the Mother Te-
resa of the Twin Cities."
"But you can't keep going
back to the same old people,
especially when there's so
many good causes out there,"
he said. "That's part of the
problem."
There are two other • rob -
CHRONOLOGY
Before the fundraising difficulties It has encountered, Mary
Jo Copeland's planned Gift of Mary Children's Home, named
after the Vhgin Mary, traveled a bumpy road to approval In
Eagan.
May 2000: Copeland an-
nounces plans to build a
chidren's home in Brook-
lyn Center.
Late summer 2000:
Copeland scraps plans for
building the home there,
saying chances of getting
city approval for zoning
was.
Now, the tract surrounding
his home is known as the Ca-
poni Art Park. It teems with
rocks, the most beautiful of
which include 35 to 40 of Ca-
poni's sculptures. The sculp-
tures are scattered throughout
the park, and are meant to
blend with the trees and hills.
"We like best what we dis-
cover." Caponi said.
Caponi, then, must have
discovered his own land, be-
cause he loves it as though it
were a part of himself.
Not wanting to see the land
they can no longer afford to pay
the high residential taxes on the
park. Neither can they bear to
see it developed.
Caponi is trying to find a
combination of public and pri-
vate entities to purchase the
land in parcels and work to-
gether to see that it is main-
tained and its educational mis-
sion is perpetuated.
"The aim is to have a non-
profit organization. a nonpolit-
ical entity to run the park,"
Cheryl Caponi said. But that's
perhaps the most difficult part
of the Caponi plan: finding
enough support and a compat-
ible group to keep the vision
alive.
A five-year tax abatement
plan helping the Caponis af-
ford the land by allowing them
to pay taxes on it at a lower, ag-
ricultural rate expired earlier
this year. The Legislature
granted the Caponis an exten-
sion until 2007, but at the end
of that time, if the land isn't
sold, the Caponis will have to
pay back the difference at the
regular. residential rate. The
Caponis can't afford that,
Cheryl Caponi said, and won't
wait until the 2007 deadline.
Caponi, 82, has eyes ringed
with deep smile lines and
white, softly spikey hair. He ob-
jects to being photographed in
his hat — a fleece cap that fas-
tens below the chin with Velcro
patches — because he thinks it
will encourage people to label
him as eccentric.
An art teacher for 43 years at
Macalester College. Caponi
said he tried to instill in his stu-
dents a reverence for life and a
sense that creativity is diverse
PARK from si
DTN • OCT09ER 15 - 1003 - PAGE SI
Photographs by Renee Jones/Star Tribune
'-acre property In Eagan. Anthony Capons, below, a former art profes-
tie Is fighting to preserve It for future generations.
r .I r
Art Park's creator tries
to avoid sale of Eagan
property to developers
A special spot, created over a lifetime by
Anthony Caponi, is now threatened.
By Shka Kantor
Star Tribune Staff Writer
Anthony Caponi's 67-acre
yard did not have anywhere
near enough rocks when he be-
gan buying parcels of it more
than 50 years ago.
So, bewildering his Eagan
neighbors, he began collecting
them.
"If you saw where l grew up,
you would understand," Capo-
ni said.
Pretare, the remote moun-
tain village in Italy where Ca-
poni lived until coming to the
United States at 15, is aptly
named, Caponi said. Pretare
means "place of rocks," he
near his house overtaken by
developers, Caponi bought it
up, piece by piece, unveiling a
picture of largely undisturbed
green space, wildlife, and now.
art.
Thousands of people visit
the park each year to discover
it for themselves, wandering
among the sculptures or taking
in a show in the park's amphi-
theater. The Art Park hosts sev-
eral cultural and educational
programs each summer, and
school groups often tour the
land, receiving varying levels of
Caponi's art instruction.
But the future of the park
and its educational pursuit is
uncertain. Capon, several years
WWW.STARTRIBUNE.[ON/SQ
The sculptures at Caponl Art Park. above, fit into the scenery of the 6'
sor at Macalester College, spent 50 years creatin : the u ark, but now
PARK from S7
and innate. He introduced mu-
sic to his classrooms, and a cat.
Once he held class in the
branches of a large oak tree. "I
was trying very hard to convey
to my students that being an
artist was not to be a different
kind of person. The difference
was only in intensity."
Capon suffers no dearth of
intensity. He built the entire
park himself, shaping paths,
planting trees, building stone
walls. He razed several trees
killed in a storm with his Bob-
cat, uprooting them and mak-
ing way for the circular stage in
his amphitheater. It's one of
the few areas in the park where
Caponi disturbed a large swath
of the natural environment.
"When you have energy, you've
got to use it," he said.
But Caponi is mmming out of
energy and time. The stress of
the fight has brought Caponi
heart problems, he said, so this
will be his last attempt to form
a coalition to purchase and
preserve the land. "It's now or
never," he said. If it turns out to
be the latter, the Caponis say
they will be forced to sell to de-
velopers.
• Caponi has offered to do-
nate 10 acres of the land to
Macalester, but that's contin-
gent upon the sale of the entire
67 acres and appointment of a
board that will ensure the
park's educational mission en-
dures. Along with Macalester,
Caponi is working with the city
of Eagan, Dakota County and
several foundations and inter-
est groups to negotiate the
land s purchase.
The Trust for Public Land,
an organization dedicated to
the preservation of green
space, helped the Caponis
draft state and county grant re-
quests.
A request is made
Eagan parks and recreation
director Ken Vraa said the city
is interested in helping to pre-
serve the parkland and is en-
couraged by Caponi's planned
10-acre donation to Macales-
ter. Eagan City Council mem-
bers appreciate the value of
preserving the land, Vraa said,
"but at the same time, the city
doesn't have a big pot of gold, it
doesn't have a money tree that
it can go shake and say, 'Oh,
here, well buy it."'
Caponi originally asked the
city to purchase 30 acres, but
scaled his request back to 20
acres this summer in hopes
that a smaller tract would be
more manageable. Eagan City
Council members Peggy Carl-
son and Mike Maguire said they
have drafted a proposal for the
Caponis and submitted it to the
city attorney for approval.
On a recent tour of the park,
Caponi pointed to the side of a
sculpture that faces a group of
trees. "Here is an imprint of a
foot — the beginning of civili-
zation," Caponi said. Above it
ReneeJones/Star frame
Lolita and Steve Keck of Falcon Heights enjoyed a an autumn day by
visiting the Capons Art Park in Eagan.
are hieroglyphics, then Greek
letters, "here is the da-de-da-da,
Beethoven's, you know?"
Capon said, pointing to musical
notes inscribed on the rock face.
Then Albert Einstein's equation,
E=mc7, and finally, the words "I
am," as in Rene Descartes', "1
think, therefore I am."
"Even though I don't agree
with him," Caponi said. "'I
think' is a very small dimension
of the mind. It's our accumula-
tion of thinking that makes us
what we are. It's what it be-
comes within us."
Another sculpture not far
away looks something like a
jagged fist clutching a smooth
stone. It has all been carved
from the same rock. "I always
think that something is more
beautiful inside, whether it is a
human being or a rock," Capo-
n said.
Shiro Kantor is at
skantorttstartrtbune.com.
WWW TWINCmmff5 CON a S PAUL PIONRIR PRRL
(Porkeber 6-ess
Oc-1I, o?3
EAGAN
Brother
charged
in shooting
incident
A man was charged'1`ues-
day with reckless discharge
of a firearm and terroristic
threats after he allegedly
fired a gun at his brother's
Eagan home a few days ago.
Stephen John Zuccaro,
was arrested Saturday at a
Lakeville motel. lie has no
permanent address,
Police were summoned to
an Eagan home shortly after
3 p.m. Friday and found bul-
let holes there after Zuccaro
was seen outside the home,
according to the Dakota
County criminal complaint.
The previous day Zuccaro
had slapped his brother's
teenage son and threatened
him, according to the com-
plaint.
:amp Sherman
SOUTH SUBURBAN
Rehearsing a earns ant ham left Vern Neiman, Elva HOUnar. Gas
Annamanr esottra. 7 TWO performances o1 You-tt Like n Nrre it a•,•
Oct- 30 as the COrn.npy On Ma•,ce ,n Eagan
EAGAN
n TucyS.a, ROUE[a POEM
Bridget Sward, 7. and
^ivied for 7 tarn Oct 23 and
Play puts spotlight
on assisted living
'It's such a great life, 'says playwright
rl SETei Runt -- -- _ -
FuIk.. to the (btnm ,rm rqt
Marks; in Eagan aerie abuzz on
a remnt esening
Jeanie Condon, a 61-ye z. 4d
welnan • uh chart blond tau,
buzzed through a dining arra
tad down hallways on hti red
elixir* ampler She omitted to
rotted up her neighbors, at the
a-elmari lelo- ooememny
boom! In a kw minutes. a
rehearsal would her
plq.' 1%1 tote begin
a
The radiants it Ile min
Con-
dom wanted to pjolit! disk a s-
dSilk began whammies
fa aid 30 at lbw
Oa ocM4 Itaplrsl alit
ink
More than the rasidotta• art.
lag Mattes will bit aft *
thrift the pout "Web Stench
to otter a glimpse of bk to an
ambisdiv4g community
pooh. Of the plays material is
taken dfseily from converse
Ream Melon has obcereed
'Mom eras a }pier, char peo-
ple had to be rarrial :dint wait
they said her-anat. tt moded Key cat
there." Condon and
"We dId i have in Jess oar
Mei because we my that al
day lanR• jolted glary Foe&
who plans one of two bickering
osiers *hp live al the tammine-
ty
Cordon's goad was to pip
The residents are
the main characters
in the play.
mote the benefit of aerated
pig Nmnuntr0&t
'1 waned to get across the
spew that R a mutt a Rent lik.. A
the of people
pI
vege-
tate,' the said 1 wanted to pet
the pint acres: that it's so eke
to Inv hen• wtthuut the tar
drip You have time to do what
you like to do emend of what
511u have to do "
('end in was inspired to write
the first hotallmrm of "Vou11
Me It Here" Iwo yes tiff
when her book chub read a
Annie fdldant most about ■
retirement aaearamty
1 led bad here punk who
waft hew long to Mato Sig kind
of dame air amid. Thor peo-
ple make the chow they as. 1
alto rd bad here sooner'
The pro-
mote
iu ecommunities
ha Dural but R Itighbg is
__ of the atfhlitlae mead
at Commoes Markle.
_ ns
the news. al group dipeuedans about
w
lag Sod soup trips to baseball
penes a playa
'Teel Like it Here II" Is a
romantic comedy and will tut
ow the De'Nonel account of a
newcomer's meting and hoer
marrying a resides in real i1Q.
the two stars were this mark
prom king and quip and base
beast teamed slur Condon was
■ newborn
Condon has maned ttvrig t
the Crimmins same she moved
IF YOU GO
'You'll like n Nere N'
be wormed at 7 p m
Oct 13 and 30 at the Com-
mons oo Mane, 1300
Mance Drive in taw The
Way D tree sad open to
the public for reserve.
bore, call 6S1-365- 3047
leverage and marks wilt
be nerved it 6 IS p m
before each performance
their three years ND, aster a
batik with cancer hampered
her physical mobility.
1 wuikod when the creative
energy hit me she said 1
woke up In the sidle of the
night and maid while some-
thing doom tee dedkaeed a
good tart of the laN few moods
wit"
Although it's about life at a
senior cimutawr enty. the Soy alto
includes f
chil-
dren whtl bm enrolled at a near-
by� mil ew•nod by the
C parent company.A
few high school students and
staff members wq1 have part,
too.
When 'Kehl Woad 1S. of
Ea .am to see the fine play,
was
sae w calk
skeptical
The thpt Um 1 went. I wan
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RBAN EDITION WWW.TWINCITIES.COM
1 3
EAGAN: INTO THE SUNSET
LEFT: Everything from
horses to Western
memorabilia will be
auctioned off at the
Diamond T Ranch in
Eagan this weekend.
BELOW: Diamond T
Ranch owner Carol
Thomas' late husband,
Jerry (in the lower
portrait), was a John
Wayne Zook -alike who
collected John Wayne
memorabilia. The ranch
has been closed and
sold to developers.
PIONEER PRESS PHOTOS BY JIM GEHRZ
The owners of the Diamond T Ranch are
auctioning off everything but the memories.
men s.
v
against the travel ban_ In position, he said, simply reflected happen,
T VICTIMS REMEMBERED
808 JORDAN. ASSOCIATED PRESS
uches a name on the Beirut Memorial wall in Jacksonville, N.C.,
mark the 20th anniversary of the bombing of the Marine Corps
(ding in Beirut, Lebanon, that killed 241 servicemen. Early Sunday
23, 1983, a bomb -filled truck drove through a security gate at a
compound and into the barracks of to still -sleeping servicemen.
re in Beirut as part of an international peacekeeping force,
clear report called lacking
ted Press
a — Iran gave the
dog a dossier meant
rying to make atomic
ran envoy acknowl-
e files omitted key
bomb -making ingre-
untry.
Iran's chief delegate
al Atomic Energy
that the dossier did
n of traces of highly
rade uranium found
ncy experts.
General Mohamed
that discovery the
of Tehran's
d diplomats recent-
ly said on the condition of anonymity
that Iran was expected to explain the ori-
gin of those traces.
The United States accuses Iran of
running a weapons program and points
to the discovery of highly enriched ura-
nium as strong evidence of such activity.
Iran insists the traces, found in envi-
ronmental samples, were inadvertently
imported on equipment meant to gener-
ate electricity and says it does not know
where the -equipment originated
because it was bought through third par-
ties_
Neither Salehi nor ElBaradei would
elaborate on the contents of the docu-
ments, which Iran turned over ahead of
an Oct. 31 deadline to prove its nuclear
program is peaceful.
rism on center stage
ds up 10-day trip abroad, makes stop in Hawaii
KEMPER
Tribune
Dem
at M
GOP wants
BY AMY GOLDS
Washington Po
WASHINGTON — The
compromise on Medicare p
hill stumbled Thursday as
rats warned they would not
changes, sought by the lead
ate negotiations, that woul
health plans and for the
government subsidies to the
Forty-one senators, inclu
Bean, sent a letter Thursd
Bust, imploring him to inte
negotiators, working to co
Senate Medicare bills, do no
that Democrats say the Sen
The most vehement prot
an aspect of the House
require the traditional ve
gram to compete with priv
based on price. Proponents
five arrangement, known
port, say that it would e
join private health plans
costs; critics predict it woul
more for patients who
tional fee -for -service p
includes nearly 90 percent
elderly and disabled Arneri
Democrats stopped sho
would filibuster a plan th
they urged negotiators to
support and several other c
sions that the House GOP v.
"Virtually a show-stoppe
Minority Leader Tom Dasc
acterized the possibility o
price competition.
The Democrats' letter
tially a mirror image of
While anti -war demonstrators filled city
streets wherever Bush went and some allies
complained that_ihe United States was tak-
t
r
1
s
s
e
y
d
a1
a
I
For sale,
`broke to ride'
BY THERESA MONSOUR
Pioneer Press
AUCTION, reads the poster.
It tells you that, after 32 years in busi-
ness, the Thomas family's Diamond T
Ranch in Eagan has gone out of busi-
ness. It gives the days, times and terms
of sale.
A few items are shown in photo-
graphs with a brief description under-
neath: Red Stage Coach, brakes, parnrle
ready. B&B 2-Seated Buggy, like new. (3)
Coin operated ponies. (1) Coin operated
stage coach. 4020 John Deere Diesel
Tractor, cab, 48 JD loader, 8' bucket.
The poster Lists dozens of other items
without pictures. 3-Seated buggy, good
condition. (2) Bob sleds. (20) Picnic
tables. (10) Iron fire rings. Otis
Spunkrneyer cookie oven. (40) Riding
horse, mares and geldings, variety of
color, all broke to ride. (10) Ponies, all
broke to ride.
All broke to ride.
What more do buyers need to know
about this weekend's sale? What else
could the bill of auction say about a
ranch and its horses?
It could say how son Ted Thomas
looked at the 18 babies born one record
year on the ranch and knew that in two
years, he'd be breaking 18 hors.
It could say that mom Carol Thomas
was in charge of naming the horses and
especially liked how Valentino tit the
one with the heart -shaped Valentine
mark on its hip.
It could say that the 6-foot chainsaw
carving offered for sale was presented to
the late Jerry Thomas by his wife as
part of their competition to one-up each
other with gifts.
It could say that the reason there are
DIAMOND T RANCH, 12A
AUCTION INFORMATION: 651-454-1464, OR ONLINE AT
WWW.DIAMONDTRANCHINC.COM. MORE DETAILS, PAGE 12A
Z 14100471-7777 ■ CVSTOBIIII SUMO 051-222.1111
Vol 155. h!o I 80 • 9 sections, '.
irk't-4( v) FROM PAGE 1A
P“dbiamond T Ranch
(continued)
so many John Wayne movies
and posters for auction is that
Jerry Thomas was a Duke look -
alike and once led the U.S. Mar-
shals in a presidential parade
down Pennsylvania Avenue.
It could say all those things
and more, but then it wouldn't
be a bill of auction. It would be
the story of three decades of
work put in by a family that
loved horses and people and
found a way to give both species
a happy escape on the southern
edge of a booming suburb —
where the land will be devel-
oped for housing.
The story is pulled out of
Thomas family members and
longtime employees, but only
with much tugging. They are all
busy sorting and organizing in
preparation for the weekend
sale. They're dragging tack
from sheds and setting it out on
wagons for display. They're
packing household goods for
the trip to the secondhand store.
"Doesn't anyone want to play
Santa?" asks Carol before the
red suit is given away.
"Unfortunately, I think it's
going to our house," says
daughter Lisa Blake as a buffalo
head is carried out the door.
Ted Thomas is outside tak-
ing a break. Having a smoke.
He's a musician. Goes by ""-
Bone." Plays the trombone in a
well-known band. Big Walter
Smith & the Groove Merchants.
He remembers the work as well
as the good times. Breaking
horses. Baling hay. Booking par-
ties. "I did absolutely every-
thing," he says.
Still, he sounds proud when
he talks about how his two sons,
ages 7 and 9, ride. He doesn't
even know how many hours
they've had on the horses.
"Fifty, sixty, a hundred," he says.
Carol, dressed in a Western
shirt, black jeans and blue cow-
boy boots, talks about the hors-
es. Rattles off their names.
Brownie and Bubbles and
Calypso and Gypsy. She's keep-
ing two of them. Charity, a 3-
year-old quarter horse. Spec,
short for Spectacular Fall, a 23-
year-old Moab. She raised Spec
and hopes to have him around a
long time yet. His mother lived
to be 31, she says.
"These should all be family
horses," she says of the remain-
der being auctioned. She points
out that people from as far away
as Arizona and Colorado have
called to inquire about them
Dori Kooyman first rode at
the ranch when she was 7 years
old She started working there
as a teenager, leading riders
down the trails and caring for
the horses. Now 23, she's help-
ing close the place down. She
says regulars are coming back
to buy the horses they rode. She
already bought her favorite,
Jesse, a 6-year-old quarter
horse.
She says she isn't as jolted by
the ranch's closing as she once
was. "Shock's wore off," she
says flatly.
She's asked about the horses
to be auctioned. She looks over
at them, standing on the other
side of a fence- Tails flicking
away flies. The first words that
come to her: "Everything here is
broke completely to ride."
Theresa Monsour can be reached
at trrtonsourpioneerpress.com
or 651-228.5457.
DIAMOND T
RANCH
AUCTION
Wham: 4889 Pilot Knob
Road, Eagan
Schedule: Today, noon to
4 p.m., preview of more
than 50 horses being auc-
tioned, including saddle
horses, ponies and draft
horses. • Saturday, starts
10 a.m., includes horses,
covered wagon, bobsleds,
sleigh, surrey, stagecoach,
tractors and other farm
equipment, horse equip-
ment and tack; several
pole buildings and sheds
to be moved; shop equip-
ment and tools. • Sunday,
starts 11 a.m., includes
antiques, collectibles and
household goods, includ-
ing John Wayne and West-
ern items. Also restaurant
equipment, such as bar
stools, freezers, stack
chairs, candy machine,
pizza ovens and folding
tables.
STAR T R I B U N T SOUTH
COMING FRIDAY IN THE STAR TRIBUNE
Variety Freetime, your guide to what's
happening in the Twin Cities area.
r
WWW.STARTRIBUNE.(ON/SOUT41 0(TOBtR 22 2003 - PAGE S11
agan park gets Earth -friendly upgrades
que sculpture highlights the
on Hills Regional Park's new
phasis on environmental education.
a Kantor
nbune Staff Writer
lone tundra swan stood
side Schulze Lake Beach
kota County's Lebanon
Regional Park, its feathers
g in the breeze. Steve Ba-
approached it, sprayed
insulating foam sealant
ffixed a piece of trash to it-
u get that stuff on your
and you're in trouble,"
an said, gesturing to -
he can of sealant.
teman was repairing his
-from-river-trash sculp-
nearly 20-foot-tall steel -
wan with wings like sty -
and eyes like metal.
of the idea when I went
a [Wis.1," Bateman, a na-
Menomenie, said. "1 saw
tundra swans. . . The
lake was filled with these
birds and 1 thought,
what are these birds? "
Minnesota Department
ral Resources commis -
Bateman to construct
an, which he made al -
entirely of garbage
d from the Mississippi
is left foot is a melding
plates and rods, a shov-
a radio. A toilet seat in
cage lifts to expose a
er scene where an or-
y kayak floats down an
an -flag river.
man titled his sculpture
Swan," in part after the
eside swan watch and
as a reminder to people
clog rivers with their
watchdog of the river,
If YO11 GO
Suburban park
What Lebanon Hills Re-
gional Park has more than
2,000 acres of woodlands
and meadows south of Cliff
Road in Eagan and Apple
Valley. Admission for gener-
al park use is free.
To learn more: Check
www. co. da-
kota.mn.us/parks or call
651-4384671.
in a way," he said.
The swan 's forehead is bright
with an yellow -orange "stop
ahead" sign, though only the
word "stop" is showing. com-
pounding Bateman's message.
"They'll see it twisting its
neck and kind of glaring at you.
letting you know it's not happy
with what's happened," he said.
Dakota County Parks De-
partment supervisor Beth Lan-
dahl spotted the bird when it
was on display at the Minneso-
ta State Fairgrounds last sum-
mer and knew immediately she
wanted to bring the swan to the
Lebanon Hills Visitor Center
for a while, especially for the
center's grand opening. which
was Saturday. The Eagan park
has "a real focus on environ-
mental education and sustain -
ability," she said. It's not just
the parks department in the
county, but other departments
are coming together to pro-
mote those programs."
The swan made a perfect, if
Photographs by Alen Smith/Special to the Star Triune
The new Lebanon Hills Visitor Center, above, was designed and constructed to create a minimal Impact on the environment. A nearly 20-
loot tall swan, below, made of garbage cleaned from the Mississippi River, Is on display temporarily nearby.
only temporary, mascot for the
park, Landahl said.
The walls of the new 6,030-
square-foot visitors' center are
made of wheat straw and sun-
flower board and the floors are
covered in recycled carpet and
renewable aspen acoustical
tile. A highly efficient soap-
stone wood stove heats the
heavily insulated building. In
the bathroom, the toilets are
separated by recycled polyeth-
ylene panels.
Several of the 2.000-acre
park's hiking, biking, horse-
back riding and cross-country
skiing trails have been restored
to repair the effects of erosion
and prevent further damage.
The original trails evolved out
of farm roads and logging
roads that don't follow the nat-
ural contours of the land, Lan-
dahl said. Park specialists are
also trying to bring back origi-
nal plant life, she said. They've
been removing invasive and
nonnative plants and seeding
for native prairie plants with a
focus on restoring presettle-
ment conditions.
The visitors' center offers
educational programs such as
native and sustainable land-
scaping, aquatic health and
management, energy conser-
vation, and orienteering and
mapping. Recreational activi-
ties include paddling classes
and a "bike -with -the -riding -
historians" tour in the summer
and dog sledding and snow -
shoeing in the winter.
"We hope it will become
kind of a community pulse,"
Landahl said.
Shira Kantor is at
skantor(startribunr.com.
W.STARTRIBUN
PAGE S 1 2 - 0(TOBER 22 - 2003 - WW
(.()11/SOUTH
4 r Sm rthiSpsciel to the Star Trbina
Tyler Wahl, 2, tugged his wagon over a pumpkin while checking out the goods at Peter's Pumpkins and Carmen's Corn on Sday In
Shakopee. A tip for pumpkin pickers: Pumpkins with stems cut too short won't last as long as pumpkins cut with longer stoma.
Pumpkin patches running low
With l lalloween just around
the corner, pumpkins are
quickly popping up all across
the metro on porches, lawns
and windowsills. Pumpkins
from supermarkets and garden
centers are available, but those
looking to pick their own
pumpkin from a field don't
have to go too far. Several
pumpkin patches and orchards
south of the Minnesota River
are still open for business.
However, a few of them are re-
porting that quantities are
running low.
> Belle Plaine:
Emma Krumbee's Apple
Orchard, 501 E. South St.,
(952) 873-3006
Open daily through Oct. 26,
10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
> Jordan:
Sponsel's Minnesota Har-
vest Apple Orchard, Old High-
way 169 Blvd. and Apple Lov-
ers Lane, (952) 492-2785
9 a.m. to 7 p.m., seven days
a week
> New Prague:
Bob's Bluebird Orchard
and Craft Barn, Fairlawn Ave-
nue and 260th Street East,
(952)461-3143
11 a.m.to 6 p.m., Saturdays
and Sundays, call for weekday
hours
> Northfield:
White Ram Orchard, 1966
320th St. E., (507) 645-5207
10 am. to 6 p.m-, Wednes-
days through Sundays
> Shakopee:
Peter's Pumpkins and Car-
men's Corns, 12860 Old Brick-
yard Road, (952) 906-0247
11 a.m. - 6:45 p.m., Mon-
days through Sundays
Introducing
Charter High Definition Service
Restaurant provides
the fancy fun of a
classic supper club
By Karen Cooper
and Bruce Schnefer
Special to the Star Tribune
The idea of a supper club
feels dated in this era of ethnic
restaurants, celebrity chefs,
and neighborhood bistros.
Back in the day, guys wear-
ing skinny ties visited supper
clubs to drink manhattans and
order the "surf and turf."
Fast forward 40 years and
head to Hwy. 13 in Eagan, and
you'll find Jensen's Supper
Club, a modern-day homage to
this classic American dining
experience.
In 1996, brothers and res-
taurant veterans Doran and
Derek Jensen opened their
dream restaurant. Their idea is
that a supper club is a commu-
nity institution, and here you'll
find that idea works.
Jensen's is one of the area's
favorite celebration restau-
rants. The children are well -
dressed and well-behaved,
choruses of "Happy Birthday"
ring out, cameras flash, and
nearly every table holds a
group of four or six or more.
The super -clean dining
room is done in warm rosy reds
and good oak woodwork, with
dark leatherette upholstery.
There's candlelight on the ta-
bles and the whole effect feels
fancy. The food, however, takes
second place to the sociable
and friendly surroundings.
Meals start with a relish tray
of celery and carrot sticks and
such. All entrees come with
Jensen's signature popovers
and house salad. Our popovers
arrived after they'd cooled off,
but they still tasted good.
The salad is lettuce and
greens mixed with gorgonzola
DINING SOUTH
prime rib, available in
sizes and prices. The mea
flavorful and moist, thou
evenly seasoned. We lik
citrus garlic chicken, wi
pungent, snappy flavor.
Side orders are mea
share, which adds to the f
atmosphere.
Jensen's special
browns come covered
cheese and have onions
in, nice if a bit breakfas
creamed spinach ha
pieces of spinach, tho
cream sauce was blan
lacked the promised garli
children's menu is exte
and will satisfy even the
finicky third -grader.
Desserts include suc
ular items as a New Yo
cheese cake and Haage
ice cream. The house -
creme brulee is creamie
many, while the tir
comes, oddly, covered in
olate sauce.
You don't need to di
skinny tie for your spec
casion at Jensen's; mo
get by with a good sweat
you can still get a m
as well as the full range
sic cocktails.
Their specialty list i
many martinis and an
what one waitress affect
ly called "frou-frou"
The wine list offers pop
lections, many availabl
glass.
Jensen's has live m
Wednesday, Friday, an
day nights. They offer
dining rooms for large
In all, it's a cut above
IEAGAN
Santa to pose
for pictures with is
The Minnesota Valley Hu-
mane Society is offering families
and their pets the opportunity to
pose with Santa Claus. From 9
a.m, to 4 p.m. Oct 26 and 27
and Nov. 2 and 3. families and
their pets can take holiday pho-
tos at the Edina Realty in Town
Centre. All pets must have up-to-
date vaccinations and be on a
leash. Cost is $35 and each
family will receive six to eight 4-
by-6 inch portraits. the negatives
and discounts from Proex on en-
largements and holiday cards.
For more information, call 952-
894.5000.
Nancy Yang and (ten Steverman
S C u rr i 7"
0cl-ober I‘) 02003
Residents urned out by the
dozens at Eagan Fire Depart-
ment Station 3 for the depart-
ment's annual open house Oct.
8. A number of exhibits intended
to teach children and adults
alike about fire safety greeted
those in attendance. Above. a
group of children wave away
smoke from a mock fire. The ac-
tivity demonstrated how to es-
cape a burning house.
Man tharged
with terroristic
threats in Eagan
by Eris jobnsoa
THRWEEK VFKIMAYI-K,
Stephen John Zuccaro. 41,
was charged Tuesday with
i reckless discharge of a
firearm and terroristic threats
for allegedly firing at least
three rounds of a handgun
inside an Eagan home.
According to the Eagan
Police Department, Zuccaro
was living temporarily at his
brother's home on the 4700
block of Nicols Road. On
Oct. 9, Zuccaro allegedly
physically assaulted his
brother's 17-year-old son.
telling him that if he called
the police he would come
back and kill him.
Zuccaro's brother then told
Zuccaro to vacate the house,
according to the complaint.
On Oct. 10. Zuccaro
allegedly returned to the
house when no one was home
and fired at least three rounds
of a handgun inside the home.
Witnesses reported hearing
two gun shots during the time
Zuccaro was in the house, but
could not pinpoint the loca-
tion of the shots and did not
call police at the time. Police
later found three bullet holes
in the interior walls of the
house.
Police were not notified of
the alleged assault on the 17-
year-old, said Eagan Police
Officer Jennifer Ruby.
"We did not get called until
the incident on Friday when
the homeowner got home and
found the place shot up," she
said.
The brother informed offi-
cers that Zuccaro has at least
four guns. including a 9-mil-
limeter handgun, a .45 caliber
handgun. a 30/30 rifle and a
See Threats, 7A
Threats/from lA
7-millimeter magnum rifle
with a scope. He also told
them that Zuccaro might be
using drugs, the complaint
states.
Upon investigation, Eagan
police found three .45 caliber
spent cartridges in the house,
and another in the driveway.
The brother told police that
the suspect was becoming
increasingly violent and pro-
vided them with a vehicle
description and license plate
number for Zuccaro_
Lakeville police located
Zuccaro's truck the next
evening at the Motel 6 in
Lakeville, where Zuccaro was
registered as a guest. The
Dakota Country SWAT team
responded to the scene and
evacuated the hotel. The sus-
pect was contacted by phone
and ultimately surrendered
without incident.
If found guilty, Zuccaro
faces a sentence of up to two
years and/or a fine of up to
$5,000 for reckless discharge
of a firearm, and up to five
years and/or a fine of up to
$10.000 for terroristic threats.
Erin Johnson is at
Cagan. thisweek a ecn,-
inc.corn.
Thisweek
Lagan
c,-°1'
c 3
www this -week -online. corn
Social insecurity
Identity theft is a growing problem nationwide; how can
Eagan residents protect themselves?
by Erin Johnson
THISWIkk VFKSPM1-RS
According to the Federal
Trade Commission. the city of
Eagan ranked fifth in the state
in reports of identity theft in
2002. with 35 cases reported.
So far this year, 21 cases
have been reported in Eagan.
Experts agree that identity
theft is on the rise in this coon
try
"It's a well-known fact that
it's been on the rise in the last
five years nationwide," said
Evan Marshall, a crime analyst
with the Eagan Police
Department. "But I wouldn't
say there's been a significant
rise in Eagan"
The numbers in Eagan are
still comparatively low. but the
numbers don't tell the whole
story, Marshall said.
3EkJflfJ
Top Cities In Minnesota
(number of vtens to 20021
City
Minneapolis
St. Paul
Bloomington
Plymouth
Eagan - 35
239
211
42
38
For instance. the initial theft
of information might take place
in Eagan. but if an account is
opened elsewhere using that
information, it would be report-
ed in the city where the account
was opened.
"People will attempt to open
a credit card or account under
someone else's name. but if the
opening of the account happens
in another city. it's not going to
he counted as an identity theft
in Eagan." he said.
Eagan Police Det. Steve
Bolluyt said that police have
seen a slight increase in identity
theft in Eagan in the past three
or four years, but they're seeing
a bigger increase in crimes that
can lead to identity theft.
"1 would say we're seeing
more of an increase in check
fraud. theft of checks. theft of
mail than we are an increase in
identity theft," he said.
The Federal Trade
Commission defines identity
theft as someone using your
personal information, suck as
your name. Social Security
See Theft, 7A
Theft/from I1A
number. credit card number or
other identifying information.
without your permission to
commit fraud or other crimes.
Personal information is most
often obtained through a stolen
purse or wallet. mail theft. the
Internet or "dumpster diving:'
where personal information is
taken from the garbage of resi-
dences or businesses.
But mail theft has been a
particular problem in Eagan.
Marshall said.
"A lot of theft of mail hap-
pens here." he said.
Bolluyt said mail theft
occurs not just in Eagan. but all
throughout the metro area on a
weekly basis.
"People are just driving up
and down the street, and
whether they're following the
mail carrier or just randomly
going up and down the street,
they're looking in mailboxes
and taking documentation," he
said, "You can get credit card
statements, bank statements,
credit card applications. You
can get very personal informa-
tion that comes in the mail."
Technology and access to
the Internet, computers and lap-
tops have contributed to the rise
in identity theft. he said.
For instance, people can
purchase check -printing soft-
ware at local office supply
stores and use it to create new
checks.
"If I steal your mail, espe-
cially your outgoing mail
where you wrote a check to the
heating company. now I have
your name, address, routing
number and account number.
And I can take that information
and create a checkbook," he
said. "A person can take a lap-
top with them in a van and
have a mobile print shop. In all
reality, they can go steal mail
and turn around and start pass-
ing checks that same day."
Dakota County Attorney
James Backstrom said that
identity theft is one of the areas
his office is currently focusing
on.
"It's a significant and grow-
ing problem across America,"
he said. "It's a sad thing in
America that that's what is
going on today, but there are
organized groups out there that
are committing these crimes"
While there were only 30
cases prosecuted in Dakota
County from August 2000 to
September 2003, Backstrom
cautions that those are only the
cases where someone was
caught.
"There are more cases than
this," he said. "These people
move around, which makes it
more difficult to prosecute mul-
tiple cases. They hire people to
break into cars and steal purses
and break into mailboxes to
steal mail:'
Catching identity thieves is
extremely difficult, Bolluyt
said.
"It's a sad thing in America that that's what is
going on today, but there are organized groups
out there that are committing these crimes."
— lames Backstrom
DAKOTA COUNTY ATTORNEY
"It's tough to identify the
person doing it. If you're lucky
it's a local group," he said. "But
unfortunately, through technol-
ogy, somebody in California
can have your information. and
it's going to be very difficult to
determine who that is and how
they got it."
Once identity theft occurs.
Bolluyt said, it costs victims an
average of $1,200 or $1, 500 in
out of pocket expenses to clear
their name. And sometimes vic-
tims of identity theft don't even
realize they've been victimized
until after the fact.
"A lot of people don't find
out until they go in to buy a
new car or apply for that Home
Depot credit card and are told
they have a number of credit
cards in their account,' he said.
Since it's difficult to catch
the criminal once identity theft
has occurred. the best bet is for
people to protect themselves
ahead of time.
"That's the only way to nip
this in the bud," Marshall said.
Bolluyt suggests that people
occasionally check their credit
report with one of the three
major credit bureaus to check
for discrepancies.
"I have one of the credit
bureaus once a year run a cred-
it report. I think it's $10," he
said.
Major credit bureaus also
offer credit watches, he said,
where for about $5 a month
they do a check on your credit.
"If an application for credit
has been made in my name,
they e-mail me" he said.
Even if an identity theft is
discovered months after the
fact, victims should still report
it to the police department, he
said.
To prevent mail theft.
Bolluyt said people should
never put outgoing mail in their
own mailboxes for pickup.
"That's one thing with mail
theft that we really stress to
people — don't put your outgo-
ing mail in your residential
mailbox. We say go to the blue
box or inside the post office,"
he said.
Locking mailboxes are
available for incoming mail
through the post office, he said.
Mail can go in, but a key is
needed to get it out. But most
people probably won't go to
that level of security, he said, so
it pays to just keep your eyes
open.
"Just be aware. for your
neighbors as much as for your
safety. If you see somebody
removing mail in just a generic
sedan, call right away. Call
911. We'll get a squad in the
area," he said. "Once that mail
is in the hands of the wrong
person, they're going to use it
for so many other things, and
not only financially is it going
to create huge headaches, but
just time -wise."
Other prevention tips
include shredding mail, espe-
cially credit card offers. before
disposing of it, never giving
information over the phone to
unsolicited callers, and leaving
your driver's license number
off of your checks.
While identity theft may be
on the rise, law enforcement
has some new tools to deal with
it.
As of Aug. I, the Eagan
Police Department can take
EG
reports of identity thefts of
Eagan residents, regardless of
where the information was
used.
"It used to be, that if you
live in Eagan and your info was
used in California or
Minneapolis, you would have
to go to California or
Minneapolis and report it,"
Bolluyt said. "The new statute
says that the Eagan Police
Department can now take that
report. We might not necessari-
ly be in a position to investigate
it if everything's being con-
ducted in California, but we
can take the report and start the
process going, and we can send
our packet to that jurisdiction
and say, 'We're kind of at a
dead end here, can you guys
pick this up?' "
Also, the Dakota County
Attorney's Office is a member
of the Minnesota Financial
Crimes Task Force. which was
created by the legislature and
is made up of law enforcement,
prosecuting officers and the
business community.
Backstrom said the task
force uses the same technology
to catch identity thieves that the
thieves use to commit the
crimes.
"We share information and
data to more quickly identify
and apprehend suspects in
these cases," he said.
There are also several
resources available to those
who have been a victim of
identity theft, as well as
resources for prevention tips.
If you have been a victim of
identity theft, call the Federal
Trade Commission's Identity
Theft Hotline at 1-877-438-
4338.
For more information on
identity theft, visit www.con-
sumer.gov/idtheft or www.pri-
vacyrights.org/identity.htm.
Brochures are also available
at the Eagan Police
Department.
Erin Johnson is at
eagan.rhisweek ecm-inc.cont.
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LEMMA
7
Eagan City Council reviews policy on
commission appointments, vacancies
Process tweaked to beconw more open, attract community interest
by Frtn fohnson
The Eagan City Council
reviewed its process for appoint-
ing commission members and
their alternates at a special meet-
ing Oct. 14.
Having a firm procedure in
place has been an issue for years.
Council Member Peggy Carlson
has said. hut came to a head in
August with the resignation of
Gary Huusko as chairman of the
Planning Commission.
Huusko's resignation was fol-
lowed by the resignation of Ron
Miller. also from the Planning
Commission. and another com-
mission member vacated earlier
this summer.
Because there was no set pro-
cedure, the council could not
agree on how to proceed with fill-
ing the vacancies. causing some
to question whether politics were
involved in the process.
Often, the council would sim-
ply refer to what had been done
in the past when filling a com-
mission vacancy. said Eagan City
Administrator Tom Hedges. But
the council has used at least three
different procedures to fill vacan-
cies in the past, he said.
"Without having a written
document. all you can do is draw
on your experiences from the
past." he said. "We've had it hap-
pen a little bit in every direction
here "
Having a set procedure in
.Sire Polity, 6A
Policy/from IA
place is important, he said, so if a
commission member leaves. the
council has a clear policy on how
to proceed.
The council decided to review
the entire process, from seeking
applicants to filling vacancies.
Members discussed each step of
the commission appointment
process Tuesday and directed
staff to come up with options.
The council agreed to contin-
ue having alternates fill commis-
sion vacancies.
The challenge wasn't so
much filling vacancies. but filling
vacancies of alternates:' said
Council Member Mike Maguire.
But the council is looking to
overhaul several other steps of
the process. For instance, one of
the council's goals is to attract
more community interest in the
commissions.
'The reason we're revisiting
the process is in an effort to
engage rnore people as prospec-
tive applicants and to get the
word out about the commis-
sions," Hedges said. 'That tells
me that the city council values its
commission members. They
want to make sure they get this
whole process out to the commu-
nity and that people want to
serve:'
To do that. the council dis-
cussed changing the time of year
that commission openings arc
advertised. which has typically
been December.
"Between Thanksgiving and
Christmas, people are caught up
in the holidays. and the last thing
they're probably thinking about
is, 'I'd like to serve my city,'
Hedges said.
The city is now considering
advertising year-round, and
changing the actual appointment
time to April instead of January.
"When the new council mem-
bers took office, they got elected
in November. had a transition for
a couple of months, took office in
early January, and their first busi-
ness is to appoint these advisory
commissions," Hedges said.
By pushing appointments out
to April, he said. council mem-
bers will have a 'better feeling
about the needs of advisory com-
missions."
"I know as a council member
it was hard" said Mayor Pat
Geagan. "We really didn't have a
full appreciation for what these
commission members do"
The council also discussed
whether to conduct background
checks of applicants and, if so,
what information would preclude
consideration. In addition, the
council considered whether to
keep all interview questions the
same or allow more leeway.
"I don't want to even open the
opportunity of seeming biased."
Carlson said.
Using the information provid-
ed by council members, city staff
will now draft a policy and pres-
ent it to the council for a vote at
an upcoming meeting.
Erin Johnson is al
ea Raft. lhfswrrk (merm-inc.c om
16444tt
SUN A. CURRENT
Eagan edition
NEWS
NOTES gaL
Oct. 16, 2003
Kantos takes
Lake title
PAGE 29A
Copeland keeps faith despite slow fundraising
Children's home project in Eagan
still needs $26.5 million
to make project reality
BY JOSHUA NICHOLS
Sun Hewepepers
A little more than a year ago controversy
surrounded a piece of land in northeastern
Eagan and the project proposed to be built on
it.
Today the 36-acre site that once was the cen-
ter of the Twin Cities discussion on what to do
with displaced children sits mostly empty like
it was 12 months ago. Except now it's connect-
ed to water and sewer and has its own frontage
road.
While it will likely be some time before
Mary Jo Copeland can break ground on her
children's home in Eagan, other parts of the
project have moved ahead.
Eagan City Administrator Tom Hedges
said that when the Eagan City Council was
considering the final plat for the project,
Copeland and her husband, Dick, petitioned
for the improvements to be made. However. if
the city knew the project wasn't likely to break
ground this spring, the improvements might
have been delayed, he said.
"Typically, we wouldn't have gone ahead
with the utilities until they are necessary,"
said Hedges.
Although Copeland has raised $3.5 million
toward the effort. she is still seeking an addi-
tional $26.5 million to make the project a real-
ity While fundraising has been slow for sever-
al reasons, Copeland said she remains unde-
terred in her vision.
COPELAND: To Page 1')"
2A Apple Valley/Rosemount, Eagan Sun•CurrentFThursday. Oct. 16, 2003
Andy Blankuskietn Nenpaprs
The Lebanon Hills Visitor Center is set tor its grand opening Oct. 18. •
www.mnSun.com
Lebanon Hills park buildin
`green' from start to finish
Grand opening for Lebanon Hills
Visitor Center set for Oct. 18
BY JOSHUA Ntcrots
Sun Narepapers
Vegetation growing on your roof and
using old lumber during construction
would usually be considered signs of
shoddy workmanship.
Except in the case of Lebanon Hills
Regional Park's new Visitor Center.
Those are two methods for being ecolog-
ically sound.
"It's probably one of the greenest and
gT;ST':)
ri\rn
ill
1 ri
'
_ i
1
environmentally sound buildings ever
built in this area," said Steve Sullivan,
Dakota County parks director. "Every-
thing about the building was planned to
create as little impact as possible."
Dakota County has touted the build-
ing, wh ..��, ...�
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Oct. 18,
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Copeland
From Page 1 A
She said the home is needed to help
serve children whose needs are not being
met by the foster care system and also to
help keep sibling groups together.
"There is a real need for it out there."
she said. "The children still need it and if
I don't continue to be a voice for them,
who will? I have faith that we will get it
done in the end."
When the project was before the city
last year for zoning changes to make the
home possible, a target ground breaking
date of spring 2004 was proposed.
However, Copeland said that was
never a concrete target and she will work
as long as it takes to raise the funds to
build the project. She pointed out that
the final planned development approved
by the city is good for five years.
"It's definitely been pushed back, but
when we actually do begin building it
has always depended on how fast we can
raise the funds," Copeland said. "It will
be a while yet. I'm not even sure if it will
be sometime next year, but it will hap-
pen."
Copeland, the founder of Minneapo-
lis' Sharing and Caring Hands, sought a
community to support her vision for sev-
eral years before coming to Eagan. She
introduced her plan in the spring of 2000
and saw efforts fall through in Brooklyn
Park, Brooklyn Center. Victoria and
Chaska before former Eagan Mayor Pat
Awada invited her to consider Eagan in
January 2002.
Despite that invite, the "Gift of Mary
Children's Home." which would include
a private school and 20 cottage -style
houses for up to 200 children. didn't
avoid controversy in Eagan. Critics ar-
gued that foster homes are better suited
for displaced children than an orphan-
age and city meetings regarding the pro-
ject often drew overflow crowds of both
supporters and those opposed to the
home.
Copeland said she believes that con-
troversy is one reason the project has
had trouble attracting potential donors.
"Between the controversy surround-
ing the project and the economy. it's not
been easy finding donors," Copeland
said. "But I believe that if God wants this
to be built, the money will come. I'm sad
that more people aren't giving for the
children, but I have faith it will happen."
The project got off the ground with a
$3 million donation from the Target
Corp., which allowed Copeland to buy
the land for the home. The project has
also received donations of $500.000 to-
ward buildings gymnasium and a $1 mil-
lion pledge to cover operations,
Copeland said.
This past summer water and sewer
pipes were connected to the property by
going underneath Highway 55, Hedges
said.
Those utility improvements along
with the frontage road cost $475.080, of
which the city of Eagan will cover
$223,880. Copeland will be assessed
$168,039 of the remaining cost and an-
other neighbor, John Cina, $83,167. When
the City Council approved the upgrades
along with the final plat for the project in
December 2002, it said it would consider
deferring Cina's cost.
Eagan Communications Director
Tom Garrison said that whether there is
a building on the site or not, the owners
of the affected properties would still face
the assessments.
Another improvement to the area
could end up being placed on hold
though.
The City Council has set a Nov 6 pub-
lic hearing on extending a water main to
the area at the cost of about $550,000.
While the recent improvements provide
water to the area, it only does so in one
direction. Hedges said. The water main
extension would "loop" the system and
extend it down Lone Oak Road so that the
water isn't dead -ending, he said.
"The question will be should we go to
any expense of extending the water
main and looping the system now or wait
until it's closer to having a building on
the site," Hedges said.
Hedges said that it isn't that unusual
for improvements to be made and then
have a project be delayed or put off alto-
gether.
"Certainly this occasionally happens
with other businesses where you have a
bank or a development proposed and it
doesn't proceed ahead for whatever rea-
son or it gets delayed," Hedges said.
"Then it just sits there for a while with
utilities and streets leading to nowhere
until the project is built."
Copeland said she and her husband
hope to get a marketing campaign start-
ed at the beginning of the year to help
spread the word about the project and
the need for more donations. She said
she is hopeful that a larger donation will
come in and once again raise the profile
of the project.
"We've been praying hard and work-
ing hard." Copeland said. "I know if we
were to get that one big gift it would let
people know that the project is still
around and we are still committed to it. I
know the Blessed Mary will help. I've
raised millions of dollars down here
(Minneapolis) and 1 know I can raise mil-
lions of dollars out there."
Play
From Page 1A
One idea behind writing the play was
to address some of the fears people have
about moving into a senior living com-
munity, Condon said.
"There are many people out there who
hesitate to make this kind of change,"
she said. "They see it as the end of the
road. when they should be seeing it as a
reward for having lived a good life."
Condon said that unlike many who
make that move, the change for her was
a welcome one.
"I came running in," she said with a
laugh.
A long-time Mendota Heights resi-
dent, Condon is a cancer survivor who
has mobility issues because of treat-
ment. She said she moved to The Com-
mons on Marice to simplify her life.
"By living in circumstances that are
too difficult to handle, people are cheat-
ing themselves out of peace of mind,"
she said. "The burden of home and yard
maintenance, cooking, cleaning and
other physically demanding chores can
be so overwhelming. Living in a place
where someone else does all the work is
a tremendous relief - not to mention the
wonderful opportunities for socializing,
partaking in activities and having the
time to do what you want to do, not what
you have to do."
When writing the first play, she also
strived to make "something that people
wouldn't sleep through."
"I wanted it to be an upbeat and hu-
morous story about what it's like to live
here," she said.
The two residents playing the leads in
the play are actually a couple that have
been married for more than 61 years.
Their characters are brought together
by a group of matchmakers made up by
actors playing their children and their
grandchildren. Eventually the whole
group of residents and staff get in the
mix as well.
Because of the differing ages and mo-
bility of those on the stage during the
play, Condon was faced with a dilemma
of what to do between scenes when her
large cast was working their way off
stage. She answered that problem with
something that also helped liven up the
production.
"Our cast ranges from 5 and 6-year-
olds to people pushing their 90s," Con-
don said. "Some of the cast also have
mobility issues so when everybody is
getting on and off the stage, it's quite a
production. So I play some lively music
and encourage them to move to the
music and have some fun."
The 45-minute production includes 12
different pieces of music chosen by Con-
don to help liven up the play and set the
mood for various scenes throughout.
That includes such songs as "Shout"
for the first scene when the actors first
come on stage, and "Matchmaker" fol•
lowing a happy hour scene when the
matchmaking plans start to hatch.
Condon never wrote plays profession-
ally, but said that she always had a lot of
creative energy and that she found her-
self occasionally writing skits and plays
for charity functions throughout her life.
The production of "You'll Like it Here
11" proved a challenging task for Condon
for not only writing the play, but also di-
recting it and playing a role in it. She also
had to balance the schedules and needs
of her diverse cast.
"It's been working fine so far," Con-
don said. "I've found that the residents
need a little more practice and the other
people in the play come when they can.
Everyone is having so much fun though
and it doesn't seem like work."
Condon said she hopes that those who
come to watch her play will see that liv-
ing in a senior living facility doesn't
mean that their life is over.
She noted that besides having most of
your needs met for you, including not
having to cook, run errands or do house-
hold chores, living in a facility like The
Commons also creates more opportunity
for socializing with others.
"I wanted my play to present the
image that living at a place like The Com-
mons is not vegetating; it's fun," she
said. "I really wanted to portray that be-
cause I feel badly for people who are on
the verge of making this move, but Just
aren't sure. I've witnessed so many peo-
ple move here who wish they had done it
a lot sooner."
She hopes that message will also stay
with family members and visitors who
take in the play
"Maybe this will spur some people
into making a life -changing decision,"
she said. "Whether they move in here
isn't the point, but the point is if they
come to this or their family does, it could
get them thinking that life could be easi-
er for them or their grandmother or
grandfather. They can be aware that this
option is here and it's a great option to
have."
The play will be performed at 7 p.m.
Thursday, Oct. 23, and Thursday, Oct. 30,
and is open to the public. To make reser-
vations, call The Commons on Marice ac-
tivities department at 651.365-3047.
Career colleges
move to suburbs
Campuses find that easy access and
lots of parking appeal to students.
BY MARA H. GOTTFRIED
Pioneer Press
When the doors opened for
the first time last month at
Argosy University's new cam-
pus in Eagan, it became the lat-
est example of a private career
college settling -- or resettling.
in this case — in the suburbs.
All over the metro area, per-
haps in a strip mall or adjacent
to a highway near you, schools
like Argosy are welcoming stu-
dents. They cater to nontradi-
tional students who often have
Jobs and families and, because
of their time -strapped lives,
appreciate the convenience of a
school close to home where
they don't have to hunt for
parking.
Some private career colleges
— most of which teach trades,
from radiation therapy to inte-
rior design — moved from
downtown St Paul or Min-
neapolis to the suburbs in the
1980s and 1990s, and others
made their start there.
"Colleges try to be good at
knowing their markets, and
they saw opportunities as the
suburbs grew," said Phil Lewen-
stein, Minnesota Higher Educa-
tion Services Office spokesman.
It's "location, location, loca-
tion," and it seems to appeal to
many students. The only down-
side, some students and admin-
istrators say. is losing the feel of
being in an urban setting.
Few students actually
choose these schools solely
because they're in the suburbs.
For most, the convenience is an
SUBURBAN COLLEGES, 9A
JEAN PIERI, PIONEER PRESS
Argosy University student Leah Letson gives a
Pomeranian its medication in a veterinary technician class.
The "meds" actually are water and a treat. The school
moved from Bloomington to a larger site in Eagan.
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formal declaration.
The White House said it was not disappointed,
saying the United States and other nations
engaged in talks with North Korea were unani-
mous in calling for a nuclear -free peninsula.
"All five nations are speaking with one voice."
presidential spokesman Scott McClellan said
North Korea test -fired an anti -ship missile off
lem posed by the proliferation of weapons of
mass destruction," a senior administration offi-
cial said, reading from the summit communique.
The leaders also urged countries to "disman-
tle fully and without delay transnational terrorist
groups that threaten the APEC economies."
On the economic front, the leaders agreed to
revive global trade liberalization talks that col-
lapsed recently in Mexico.
U.S. gains missile restrictions
BY PHILIP SILENON
New York Times
WASHINGTON — The United States has won
agreement from governments across Asia and
the Pacific Rim to sharply restrict the use and
transfer of shoulder -fired missiles that could he
used by al-Qaida and other terrorist groups to
shoot down passenger planes, senior Bush
administration officials said Monday.
They said the United States was pressing to
have the restrictions on the missiles, like the
American -made Stinger and the Russian -made
SA-7, written into the final statement that will be
issued at this week's meeting In Bangkok, Thai-
land, of President Bush and his counterparts
from Asian and Pacific nations.
Administration officials said the U.S. proposal
reflected fear among intelligence and law
enforcement agencies that al-Qaida plans attacks
with the weapons, similar to its attempt last
November to shoot down an Israeli passenger
plane in Mombasa, Kenya. The two Russian -
made missiles barely missed.
missiles, telling his counterparts that "no threat
is more serious to aviation."
American officials said that the statement in
Bangkok will probably call for all Asian and
Pacific Rim nations and the United States to
adopt controls over their inventories of small sur-
face-to-air missiles and to ban any transfer of the
weapons to "nonstate end -users," such as guerril-
la groups that might be allied with terrorists.
Weapons specialists say that tens of thou-
sands of shoulder -fired missiles are now in circu-
lation on the international arms market, with the
price for an older Russian -made SA-7 set at as lit-
tle as a $5,000. Even the smallest of the so-called
Manpads — the acronym for Man -Portable Air
Defense Systems, the term used in the defense
industry — is capable of bringing down a jumbo
jet on takeoff or landing.
American officials said it was unclear exactly
how much of the American language — which
drew early support from Russia, Japan, Canada,
Australia and New Zealand, among others —
would be adopted in the final statement in
Bangkok.
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JEAN PIERI, PIONEER PRESS
Good traffic patterns drew Argosy University to Eagan.
"Bloomington was a great location, but this quadrant of the metro
is more convenient to students because it has good traffic flow,"
said President William Cowan.
Suburban colleges
(continued)
extra perk.
When Brown College moved
from downtown Minneapolis to
Mendota Heights about 10 years
ago, "it was a matter of accessi-
bility and the growth we antici-
pated" said Chancellor Ron
Swanson.
"But if you come right down
to it, I don't think it's the loca-
tion in the suburbs that attracts
our students. It's the programs,
the educational opportunities,
that attract students."
Globe College's move from
downtown St. Paul to Oakdale in
1997 was a boon for business.
Enrollment jumped from 300
students in 1997 to about 1,000
this fall, said Director Jeanne
Herrmann.
"It's expanded our reach to
students, because students tend
to go where it's convenient,"
Herrmann said "If you look at
the ZIP codes of our students,
they tend to be not far from
here."
Argosy University built a
larger facility. in Eagan and
moved from Bloomington this
year. Last week, there were stu-
dents throughout the building
— some training in a surgical
lab to be veterinary technicians,
others training in the school's
public clinic to be dental hygien-
ists, and more studying in the
library.
Sharon Billings of Blooming-
ton left the corporate world to
train to be a veterinary techni-
cian. She studied Argosy's cre-
dentials before making her deci-
sion.
"The chance to do this is
kind of a midlife-crisis dream
come true," said Billings, 50.
"The fact it's conveniently locat-
ed was just a plus. It's comfort-
able for me because I've been
living in the suburbs for many
years.'
One factor Argosy officials
considered before selecting
Eagan for the $18 million project
was traffic patterns.
"Bloomington was a great
location, but this quadrant of
the metro is more convenient to
students because it has good
traffic flow," said President
William Cowan, who hopes the
location will also attract more
students from western Wiscon-
sin.
Argosy was looking at other
amenities, too. Students can
take buses to the new Eagan
Transit Station, at Yankee Doo-
dle and Pilot Knob roads, and
walk to the nearby campus. The
school has MO more parking
spaces than the Bloomington
site, plus better lighting in the
parking lot — although Cowan
said safety isn't a problem.
Herzing College did move its
campus for safety reasons. It
was located at 34th Street and
Chicago Avenue in Minneapolis
until 1986.
"We were trying to grow our
night school, but there was a
crime and drug problem in that
area then," said President Tom
Kesel. "We were looking for an
area that was a little more
secure in the evening."
The school moved to Crystal.
Students felt safer, and the loca-
tion was close enough to Min-
neapolis to be convenient but
far enough to skirt congestion,
Kosel said.
The Art Institutes Interna-
tional Minnesota is one college
that has bucked the trend. It has
always had a downtown Min-
neapolis address. The location
is advantageous because many
careers in interior and graphic
design — the school's focus —
are in the downtown area
Because few schools offer
such programs, students from
throughout Minnesota attend
the institute, said Sarah Denni-
son, the art institute's dean of
education.
"Location might be a little
lower on the list for our students
than for students going into a
field like business management,
where there are more choices,"
she said.
1f the same program that
Argosy offers in Eagan were
available in the city, Bright Fel-
lowes, a graduate student in
clinical psychology, would pre-
fer to attend school there.
"But it's fine with me,
because when I'm not at school,
I'm in an urban setting," said
Fellowes, Lt, of South Minneapo-
lis. "It's close enough that I don't
mind the drive, and it's nice to
not have to look for parking."
Mara H. Gottfried covers Eagan,
the Metropolitan Council and
suburban growth. She can be
reached at mgottfried@pioneer
press.com or 651-228-5262.
rts lead us
uCE BEATTIE. COPLEY NEWS SERVICE
OR
s writing
ire section of the Pioneer
ss devoted to the Green Bay
kers. In shock. we immedi-
y burned the newspaper and
ewed our vows to always
pise the Hated Pack. 1 only
y that we won't open the
T next week to discover a
• section extolling the virtues
sama Bin laden, but nothing
Id surprise me at this point
KURT LEIN
St. Paul
Cadillacs, BMWs
1, as a state employee, have
"Cadillac" of health insur•
then Gov. Pawlenty must
the "BMW" plan.
SANDRA J. MONK
Maplewood
WWW.TWINCITIES.COM • ST. PAUL PIONEER PRESS
EDITORIALS
Plan to reimport drugs
from Canada is sensible
Cloy_ Tim Pawlenty's decision to help Minnesotans import pre-
scription drugs from Canada to save money has been getting
national attention because this is the first state that will implement
such a plan to help reduce costs and because Pawlenty is going
against the Republican grain, as defined by
Washington politics.
Like Rep. Gil Gutknecht, R-Minn., who has
been leading a dogged struggle in Congress to
legalize reimporting drugs, the Pawlenty admin-
istration sees what regular citizens who aren't
high-powered pharmaceutical lobbyists see. The
outrage and personal fears about affordable
health care have reached a political tipping point.
A poll done this month for the Washington
Post and ABC News indicates people want to get
out from under the bills for prescription drugs,
higher in the United States than elsewhere in the
developed world. In the nationwide poll, 70 percent of respondents
said they favored reimportation of drugs from Canada and Europe.
One in eight said they or someone in their home has bought pre-
scription drugs from a source outside the United States.
The consumer highlight of the Pawlenty administration's
response is to establish a Web site within a few months where any
Minnesotan can buy his or her prescriptions from an approved
Canadian pharmacy and at a price the state has negotiated. The
administration plans for consumers who don't have an Internet con-
nection to make their transactions by telephone.
Other states, mostly in this region, are considering similar initia-
tives to deliver more affordable prescriptions from safe, reliable
sources outside the United States. Certainly, that would help
change the equation in Washington, where health care costs have
been more an issue of Democrats than Republicans. The prescrip-
tion drug issue for seniors. stalled in Congress now after years of
ballyhoo, has been a priority issue among progressives and moder-
ates. Sen. Mark Dayton, D-Minn., for instance, has made affordable
drugs for seniors a signature priority. All the Democratic presiden-
tial candidates bring health care costs to the stump often. The mat-
ter of intervening in the markets has been a difficult one ideologi-
cally and politically for Republican officeholders. Now, the larger
market for health care reorients the logic of public policy about pre-
scription drugs. Responsiveness among elected Republicans is key.
In the here and now, though, the Bush administration opposes
reimportation and the Republican majority leadership in both hous-
es of Congress opposes it Pawlenty is right on the money, taking a
step to help people (and perhaps the whole market) circumvent
national gridlock on one of many important aspects of trying to
afford medical care.
Minnesota common sense isn't a cure-all. But by empowering
people to buy prescriptions at Canadian . ces the Pawlen admin-
NEWS
FROM PAGE 1A
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2003 C 9A
JEAN PIERI, PIONEER PRESS
Students evaluate X-rays during an Argosy class, Those who attend the university can take buses to
the new Eagan Transit Station, at Yankee Doodle and Pilot Knob roads, and walk to the nearby
campus.
ST. PAUL PIONEER PRESS ■ WWW.TWINCITIES.COM
SUBURBS
LOCAL NEWS
/cl aIlc,
EAGAN
Ex -mayor charged with violations
Complaint a result of 2002 election flier
BY AMY SHERMAN
Pioneer Press
A woman who was mayor of
Eagan in the 1980s has been
charged with campaign viola-
tions stemming from the 2002
elections.
Bea Blomquist, 65, was
charged recently with prepara-
tion or dissemination of false
political and campaign material,
a gross misdemeanor, and fail-
ure to include a disclaimer, a
misdemeanor. Blomquist was
Eagan's mayor in the 1980s, then
rejoined the City Council in 1997
for a four-year term.
According to the Dakota
County charges, authorities
received a complaint in 2002
from Paul Bakken, who was run-
ning for state representative in
District 38B as the Indepen-
dence Party candidate. The
complaint centered on a flier in
a local newspaper that suggest-
ed Bakken used an address
other than his own to collect
checks while working on anoth-
er campaign.
The flier also suggested vot-
ers should ask Eagan City
Council candidate Peggy Carl-
son, who was running for re-
election, why a form for the
Eagan Athletic Association was
faLsttied and why $4,000 was
taken from an account for that
group to fund another campaign
against IRS regulations.
Bakken and Carlson told a
Dakota County investigator that
the flier was false. The flier con-
tained a disclaimer that con-
tained a Farmington address.
The resident at that address
told investigators she was
unaware of the flier but said she
had been to Blomquist's resi-
dence to use a computer. An
employee of the newspaper that
contained the flier picked
Blomquist out of a photographic
lineup as the person who had
paid for the flier.
Blomquist, who said Monday
she was unaware of the charges,
said the information on the flier
was accurate and denied wrong-
doing.
"There is nothing to it, and
it's simply untrue," she said.
"Whoever is filing it, is filing
false charges."
Bakken, who ran as an Inde-
pendence Party member for the
seat formerly held by Gov. Tim
Pawlenty, said the literature
contributed to his third -place
Toss to Republican Lynn Ward -
low.
"I don't want to make a
mountain out of a molehill; it
really is an insidious crime,"
Bakken said. "Our democratic
elections are predicated on the
idea that people will have access
to good information about the
people they are intending to
elect- When somebody spreads
blatantly false information
about people to the community
it impairs their ability to make a
well-informed decision."
In about half of election -
related cases, the Dakota Coun-
ty attorney's office presents the
matter to a grand jury before
proceeding with prosecution,
said chief deputy county attor-
ney Phil Prokopowicz- But when
the office has what it thinks is a
clear-cut violation, the county
attorney files charges without a
grand jury proceeding. This
case was not presented to a
grand jury.
Amy Sherman covers Dakota
County public safety and
government. She can be reached
at asherman@pioneerpress.com
or 651.228-2174.
ST. PAUL PIONEER PRESS
1 \21 I
EAGAN
Veggie
stand
wins a
delay
Council postpones
condemnation filing
BY THERESA MONSOUR
Pioneer Press
Betty Adelmann's home
and roadside vegetable stand
in Eagan have been granted
a reprieve.
The Metropolitan Council,
which was going to start con-
demnation proceedings to
acquire her property on Min-
nesota 13, has postponed the
process.
The Minnesota Valley
Transit Authority, or MVTA,
wants to build a service
garage for its buses next to
Minnesota 13. Adelmann's
acre, where her home, veg-
etable stand and greenhouse
Mt, would provide the buses
access to the garage and
room to turn, But Adelmann
didn't like the Met Council
appraisal that came back
with a $25.5,000 price tag. She
wants at least S700,000 after
all the lawyers are paid.
The Met Council, which
works with a variety of tran-
sit providers and has author-
ity to condemn property, was
going to Hle a claim in Dako-
ta County Court to take the
land by eminent domain.
Adelmann — who is 67,
receives kidney dialysis
three days a week and has a
husband in a nursing home
— was given until Feb. 16 to
be out of the house.
After an outcry over Adel-
mann's situation, the Met
Council's regional adminis-
trator, Tom Weaver, com-
mented on the matter in an
internal newsletter sent to
employees on Friday. It
reads, in part:
"The council did in fact,
approve condemnation of the
property for transit purposes
in cooperation with MVTA.
The council has legal author-
ity to take property for tran-
sit purposes. MVTA does
not, but supported condem-
nation as a measure of last
resort. As a result of the con-
troversy that has arisen,
however, and the concerns
expressed by and for the
property owner in this case,
we have put eminent domain
proceedings on hold for the
time being"
He ended the column with
this: "I sincerely believe we
made a solid effort to try to
be fair and flexible with the
homeowner and prudent
with taxpayer dollars, while
also supporting the public
investment in the regional
transit system. That said,
we're going to try harder. As
I indicated, we've postponed
the condemnation proceed-
ings until we've had more of
an opportunity to inform the
Eagan community, lawmak-
ers and other interested par-
ties of the issues and to eval-
uate the homeowner's
appraisal. I am confident
well come to a fair and rea-
sonable resolution."
One person who made
some calls on Adelmann's
behalf was Rep. Tim Wilkins
R-Eagan.
"i was concerned she was
being pushed out using emi-
nent domain," said Wilkin- He
said eminent domain should
be used only as a last resort
to acquire property that is
absolutely necessary to a
government project. He said
Adelmann's appraisal should
be examined and an agree-
ment negotiated
"The last thing we want to
do is exercise the right of
eminent domain," Weaver
said in an interview "It
makes sense to us to give
everything a little more
tone.'.
Adelmann sounded skep-
tical on Monday that the situ-
ation is going to work out for
her.
"Maybe I have more time
and maybe ifs on hold and
maybe 1 still got to get out of
here February 16," she said.
Theresa Monsour can be
reached at tmonsourCla pk neer
+press.com or 651-228-5457.
W W W.TWINCITIES.COM • ST. PAUL PIONEER PRESS
SOUTH SUBURBAN
EAGAN
City rejoins Met Council
funding program
Deal will include housing initiative
BY THERESA MONSOUR
Pirmeer Press
The city of Eagan is rejoining
a Metropolitan Council program
that could give it access to spe-
cial funding for housing, rede-
velopment and pollution
cleanup.
At a meeting Wednesday
night, the council, in a split vote,
decided to return to the pro-
gram, the Livable Communities
Act. Voting to rejt..n were
Mayor Pat Geagan and council
members Meg Tilley and Mike
Maguire. Council member Cyn-
dee Fields voted against rejoin-
ing and Peggy Carlson
abstained.
Since 1996, state money has
been made available to cities
under the Livable Communities
Act. a voluntary program for
cities that addresses the
region's affordable housing
stock and helps cities grow.
Communities that apply for
funding must first agree to par-
ticipate in the Livable ('ommu-
nities housing incentives pro-
gram and must work toward
housing goals negotiated with
the Metropolitan Council, the
regional planning agency for
the seven -county area
Since the program's launch,
Met Council grants totaling
about $100 million have resulted
in commitments of $3 billion in
private and other public invest-
ments, according to Met Council
statistics.
Citing a loss of control, the
Eagan City Council ended its
participation in the program in
November 1997.
But Geagan said last month
that he was seeing a "less regu-
latory" Met Council these days,
making the program more
attractive. On Oct- 28, Metropoli-
tan Council Chairman Peter Bell
and other Met Council officials
answered questions about the
program in an appearance
before an Eagan City Council
workshop.
7'ht•resa .1lrmsour eon be reached
at ttnunsaur!a'pw nee►press.corn or
631 2214-5457
Business
ECVB's painted •`E&E" van. modeled after NUM candies, was the crux of its tourism cam-
paign as it travelled the country promoting Eagan.
ECVB tourism campaign wins national award.
The Eagan Convention and
Visitors Bureau (ECVB)
received a Gold Award from the
League of American
Communications Professionals
(LACP) for its recent tourism
campaign.
Eagan's E & E marketing
program was designed to pro-
mote Eagan as a year-round
business and leisure destination
through the use of a specially
designed van.
The van displays colorful
circles with "E" or descriptive
words beginning with E inside
the circles. It was driven more
than 35.000 miles this past year
to various parades and travel
trade shows.
Publicity materials were dis-
tributed at the parades and trav-
el shows by staff and volun-
teers, which included packages
of E& E chocolate -coated can-
dies and a visitor's guide with
coupons.
Judges gave the ECVB its
second highest ranking. a Gold
Award, in the Publicity
Materials Competition.
A point system scored
entrants on first impression.
narrative content quality, visual
content quality. creativity. mes-
sage clarity and relevance.
The ECVB was the first
Gold award in a category that
included companies with up to
100 employees and up to $10
million in annual revenue. The
ECVB employs three full-time
employees and one part-time
employee and has annual rev-
enue of less than one million
dollars.
"Considering the high level
of competition .we were up
against, I'm thrilled that the E
& E campaign won," said
ECVB Executive Director Ann
Carlon. "By reaching out to vis-
itors in their communities via
parades and events, Eagan was
established as a safe, welcom-
ing community to visit when
traveling to the Twin Cities."
The campaign appeared to
be very effective. Results com-
piled during the first eight
months of the campaign
showed that lodging tax rev-
enues in Eagan rose 9 percent
compared to a year ago, while
neighboring communities real-
ized zero growth_
Overnight occupancy
increased 10 percentage points
from the start of the year
through August, compared to
the same period in 2002.
The estimated number of
overnight visitors to Eagan
through the first eight months
was 765,450. At $65 a day, that
equals more than $49 million of
tourism economic impact into
the community in the first eight
months of 2003.
The E-van also saved in
employee auto expenses,
according to the ECVB. It
replaced rental vans for trade
shows and sales calls, saving
the Bureau more than $4,000 a
year in travel costs while pro-
viding traveling advertising to
these shows an4cities for sales
calls.
WE ACCEPT TRADES
Jeff
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Busiiess
in Apple Valley
the profits.
The store is located at 149)(9
Florence Trail — off of County
Road 42 by Menards — and is
open 24 hours aiifay, seven days a
week.
When the "Hot Doughnuts
Now" neon sign is lit, the dough-
nuts are fresh off the line and may
be purchased hot.
Brett Andersen is at
avthicweek@ ecm-inc•. c vm.
# ANNIVERSARY SALE!
November 14th, 15tj , & %6t
Friday _ Saturday - Sunday
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Apple Valley Oreck Store
Manager Jody Bickley
shows off one of the compa-
ny's cleaning products.
Oreck recently began a new
program to help charities
and organizations raise
funds by hosting "Oreck
After Hours" parties.
New program
generates sales,
donations, fun
bt' Brett Andersen
IIiIS%LEK NEMSPAPHi
Oreck is combining mar-
keting and charity in a new
program.
A charity or organization
can throw a party at its local
Oreck showroom and take
home a percentage of the
sales, according to Apple
Valley Store Manager Jody
Bickley.
The organization may
chose to receive 15 percent of
sales in cash; 10 percent in
cash and 10 percent in mer-
chandise credit; or 25 percent
in merchandise credit.
The sponsoring organiza-
tion is responsible for pro-
moting the party and provid-
ing a minimum of six guests
said Bickley.
Oreck will provide the
invitations she said.
"Otherwise, all they need
to do is show up with their
friends and family," she said.
Guests are treated to a 45-
minute demonstration of
Oreck's products.
Oreck is best known for its
advertising of lightweight,
powerful vacuums — a popu-
lar ad features a vacuum pick-
ing up a bowling ball. The
company was started by
Duluth native David Oreck.
More information about
Oreck products is available at
www.oreck.com.
Bickley said the parties are
"a lot of hands-on demo, so
(guests) get to experience the
product."
The Apple Valley store
opened in February and is
located in the southeast cor-
ner of the intersection of
Cedar Avenue and County
Road 42.
Brett Andersen is at
ay.thisweek @ecm-inc. con►.
Northview teacher found
guilty of four charges
by Brett Andersen
THISWEJ:K NEWSPAPERS
Ari David Levie, 34. a
teacher for 10 years at
Northview Elementary School.
Eagan. was found guilty Oct. 24
of asking a 9-year-old girl to
pose naked for photographs.
According to a complaint
filed in Goodhue County
District Court on Jan. 15, Levie
allegedly offered a 9-year-old
girl $50 to remove her clothes
and pose for photographs.
The girl was not a student at
Northview and the incident
happened at Levie's home in
Cannon Falls.
Levie was found guilty of
two counts of using a minor in a
sexual performance and two
counts of soliciting a child to
engage in sexual conduct in
Goodhue County District
Court.
Levie is currently in custody
and is scheduled to be sen-
tenced Dec. 12.
Each charge of using a
minor in a sexual performance
carries a maximum penalty of
five years jail time and a
$10,000 fine. Each charge of
solicitation of child to engage in
sexual conduct carries a maxi-
mum penalty of three years jail
time and a $5,000 fine.
Goodhue County Attorney
See Teacher, 5A
Teacher/from lA
Stephen Betcher said the judge
indicated he would consider
deviating from the sentencing
guidelines in Levie's case. The
deviation could adjust the penalty
up or down, said Betcher.
"We're hoping for an 'up'
adjustment;' he said.
According to the complaint.
Levie often took pictures of chil-
dren playing at his home while
clothed. but four said either
themselves or others have been
asked to remove clothing for pic-
tures. All refused the request.
act. ,cling to the complaint.
Levie was charged with inci-
dents involving only the 9-year-
old, who told law enforcement
officers about the incident Jan. 7_
According to the complaint, the
girl said she had never been
touched inappropriately.
Other girls interviewed by
investigators did not testify in the
trial.
The Goodhue County
Sheriff's Department began
interviewing the girls in
November of 2001, after initial
reports were filed by two separate
police officers_
A Rosemount -Apple Valley -
Eagan School District official
said Levie began teaching at
Northview 10 years ago and that
there were "no complaints to the
district" against him.
He was placed on administra-
tive leave Jan. 15. Levie resigned
from the district effective Oct. 27.
Brett Andersen is (it
a this►ceekeecm-inc.co7 .
Eagan band" `-` `:`
P- c 3
is robbed
at gunpoint
$5,0(XI reward is
c ffered for information
by Erin Johnson
THISNFI A NI '1'\YI K'
An armed man robbed
Northwest Employee Credit
Union in Eagan Thursday and
escaped with an undisclosed
amount of money, police said.
Northwest Credit Union is
located at 1420 Yankee
Doodle Road.
Employees said the man
entered the credit union at
about 10:30 a.m. on Oct. 30,
displayed a handgun and
demanded money. He then
fled on foot.
There were four employees
in the bank at the time but no
customers. said FBI Special
Agent Paul McCabe.
The suspect is described as
a white male in his late 30s or
early 40s, 5 feet 10 inches tall
with an average build.
He was last seen wearing a
black baseball cap, gray long-
sleeved T-shirt or sweatshirt
with the collar pulled up to
his eyes. gray gloves. faded
jeans and dark shoes.
The suspect is also
believed to he responsible for
the robbery of Merchants
Bank in Cottage Grove on
Oct. 21. according to the FBI.
THISWEEK November 8. 2003
Arlo 3 W
"A lot of the information
we can't divulge, but there
were enough similarities in
his modus operandi that we
believe he is also responsible
for that one." McCabe said.
There are no photos or
video surveillance images of
See Rank, SA
Bank/from lA
the suspect, he said.
The Minnesota Credit
Union Network is offering a
$5,000 reward for information
EG
leading to the arrest and
indictment of the suspect.
Anyone with information
regarding this robbery is
asked to contact the FBI at
(612) 376-3200 or the Eagan
Police Department at (651)
675-5700.
Erin Johnson is at
eagan.thiswerk@'eurn-
inc.com.
5A
www thtsweek-online com
Condemnation is put on hold
Met Council suspends action on Eagan woman's property
as a result of controversy, concerns for homeowner
by Erfw Jobresow
THISM} k? A 4'NF1RS
The Metropolitan Council
has put on hold the process of
condemning an elderly Eagan
woman's property that was tar-
geted as the site of a future bus
garage.
Betty Adelmann. 67, lives on
a one -acre corner lot on
Highway 13 that the Minnesota
Valley Transit Authority
(MVTA) wants to use for a
garage to service buses.
The Met Council, which has
eminent domain authority. is
helping MVTA secure
Adelmann's land. which she
refused to sell at the offered
amount. Eminent domain
allows government agencies to
obtain private property through
condemnation.
But mounting public and
legislative scrutiny have caused
the Met Council to suspend the
eminent domain process for the
time being.
Met Council '1
Betty Adelmann's property, which includes her home and pro-
duce stand, has been granted a temporary reprieve front con-
demnation by the Met Council.
Administrator Tom Weaver sent explaining that controversy and
Regional
emnlovrp. �R,a-� m. I anti fur th' home- See Renri yr ew
owner were reasons for the
reprieve.
The process is on hold. he
wrote. "until we've had more of
an opportunity to inform the
Eagan community, lawmakers
and other interested parties of
the issues and to evaluate the
homeowner's appraisal. -
One of the lawmakers cham-
pioning Adelmann's cause is
Rep. Tim Wilkin (R-Eagan),
who said this is a "wholly inap-
propriate" use of eminent
domain.
"It makes sense for MVTA
to seekithis property. but if you
don't have a willing seller, the
deal's pretty much off," he said.
•
Eminent domain was estab-
lished to serve the greater pub-
lic good, he said. if there is a
specific property the state needs
to acquire.
"This. to me. is not a fair use
of that tool;" he said.
The MVTA identified
Adelmann's land more than a
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south of the river. Adelmann's
property is .adjacent to several
acres that the Met Council will
get from the Minnesota
Department of Transportation
(MnDOT) for the project.
Adelmann's property was
chosen for all the right mason~,
Weaver wrote. It is a good loca-
tion For a bus garage that serves
public transit needs, it is cost effi-
cient and means acquiring only
one acre of a needed four -acre
parcel. and the property is zoned
industrial and located in a very
industrial area. with the Seneca
wastewater treatment plant and
an ash landfill nearby.
"I want employees to under-
stand we do not take this issue
lightly:' he wrote. "Nor do we
take advantage of property (Mn-
ers by acquinng property without
fair co inpensation"
But Ade! man, who has lived
in the five -bedroom house on her
property for more than 45 years,
called the Met Council's offer of
$255,()00 "a slap in the face.
She and her husband.
Clarence, built their home and
raised their seven children there.
Clarence is now in a nursing
home. and Adelman, who
receives weekly dialysis treat-
ments, makes her living selling
produce from the market on her
property.
She said she had no intention
of ever moving from her home
and that she won't sell without a
fair offer for her land.
But the Met Council hired two
independent appraisers to deter-
mine the fair market value of
Adelmann's property. Weaver
wrote, and she was offered the
higher of the two appraisals, "an
amount eoxtsiderahly higher than
the county's assessed value of the
Ix'oPertY„
The Met Council also offered
to reimburse Adelman for up to
$1,500 for the cost of having her
own appraisal done. as well as
relocation benefits to help cover
the cost of moving and relocating
her business. be stated.
"1 sincerely believe we made a
solid effort to try to be fair and
flexible with the homeowner and
prudent with taxpayer dollars,
while also supporting the public
investment in the regional transit
system." he wrote. 'That said,
we're going to try harder ... 1 am
confident we'll come to a fair and
reasonable resolution"
While the Met Council made
a prudent choice in seeking land
adjacent to MnDOT acreage,
Wilkin said. there are other places
in Fagan that could be used for a
bus garage, and there isn't a com-
pelling enough reason for trying
to take Adelmann's land specifi-
cally.
'It's getting crowded down
here. but there's still space avail-
able." he said.
Wilkin said he has contacted
several people about .this issue.
including Weaver. Met Council
representatives, lobbyists and the
executive director of the MVTA.
"My job is to protect the inter-
ests of my constituents," he said.
"(Adelmann) needs someone to
represent her and be an advocate
from the public standpoint:.
Adelman said she is grateful
for all of the people who are
"coming to my aid and sticking
up for me"
She said she's received e-
mai ls, phone calls and visitors, all
asking how they can help. One
man even began a petition by
signing a piece of paper on an old
clipboard at Adelmann's produce
stand.
"It's something else," she said.
"I owe a lot to all those people"
For the first time, she said. she
has hope for her situation.
"1 feel a little better" she said.
"At least they're not bullying me
around "
While she loves her home and
produce stand. Adelmann said
she would be a willing seller for a
fair price. Working long hours in
the summer heat now takes its toll
on her. she said, and she wouldn't
mind taking a vacation.
"I haven't taken a summer
vacation in 40 years. Maybe it
would be nice to have a summer
off:' she said. "Or maybe I would
miss the stand"
Erin Johnson is at
ea can. rhisweekOP erm-inr. rom.
2B S SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2003
EAGAN
Efforts to buy
roadside stand
are dropped
BY BOB SIIAW
Pioneer Press
It's official — Betty Lou Adelmann's home and veg-
etable stand are safe.
Officials have hacked off a plan to buy three acres of
land from the 67-year-old Eagan woman for a bus
garage. Instead, the Minnesota Valley Transit Authority
will look elsewhere, ending the process that started
more than a year ago.
"I think it's great.," said Adelmann on Friday. "I am
67, and all I can do is what I can do."
She said several people have stopped by her veg-
etable stand. wanting to sign a petition to help her. "One
guy said, 'The more I read, the madder I get,' " said
Adelmann. "Someday 1 will be gone, but l will be here as
long as 1 can wiggle." -
On Friday, the MVTA formally asked the Metropoli-
tan Council to stop trying to acquire Adelmann's proper-
ty on its behalf. Earlier this week, the Met Council
announced it was postponing efforts to force Adelmann
to sell through the right of eminent domain.
TheMVTA was attracted to the Adelman site
because it would have saved money, officials said. The
garage would have had the capacity to service and store
100 buses.
Both Adelmann and MVTA officials say she agreed
to sell the land about 18 months ago, when she was tint
approached. The MVTA did two appraisals of the prop-
erty and offered her the higher of the two — $255,000.
They agreed to pay her moving expenses and the cost of
Adelman's separate appraisal as well.
"We are discouraged," said Beverly Miller, director of
the MVTA. "We operated in good faith. They just picked
that figure, and there is no way we can work with that"
On Friday, Adelmann said the $255,000 price was too
low She is asking for $700,000. She said she is having her
own appraisal done, but the results of that weren't
known Friday. "The $700,000 is enough to make me get
out of here," she said.
She said that for $255,000, she couldn't buy another
five -bedroom house on comparable property. "What am
I going to get for that kind of money?" she asked. The
attorney's fees and other costs, she said, should be reim-
bursed.
Adelman undergoes kidney dialysis three days a
week. Her husband is in a nursing home. She has oper-
ated the Adelmann Farm Market vegetable stand along
Highway 13 for 90 years.
"1 just have too many memories here," she said.
Bob Shaw can be reached at bshawrapiuneerpress.com or
651-228-5433.
LOCAL NEWS
WWW.TWINCITIES.COM ■ ST. PAUL PIONEER PRESS
SOUTH SUBURBAN
EAGAN
City Council confirms Kriha as fire chief
Panel chooses not to reappoint Jensen
BY AMY SHERMAN
Pioneer Press
After seven years as Eagan's
volunteer the chief and 23 years
with the department, Craig
Jensen says he has no idea why a
committee of mostly firefighters
chose a new chief.
On Thursday, the City Council
unanimously backed a commit-
tee's recommendation to promote
fire captain Bob Kriha rather than
re -appoint Jensen.
It's not unusual for depart-
ments to switch fire chiefs, city
officials say. Seven years is the
second -longest tenure of any fire
chief in recent history, said city
spokesman Tom Garrison.
Jensen says he isn't bitter and
wonders if firefighters were sim-
ply looking for change.
"It's tough to step aside, espe-
cially when I don't receive a lot of
input from anybody as to where I
failed in the interview process,"
Jensen said. "Everybody is kind of
clamming up and not saying what
the deal Is."
Jensen says he has a very good
relationship with Kriha, a I7-year
veteran of the department, and
will support him during the tran-
sition.
Kriha will be officially pinned
as the new chief at a Dec. 1 cere-
mony and start two days later.
Jensen said he will remain a vol-
unteer firefighter until at least
May, when he will turn 50 and
receive his pension.
Jensen said the only concern
he heard from firefighters was
about his working as an Eagan
maintenance employee while also
serving as the volunteer chief.
'At times they insinuated my
decision -making was more in the
best interest of the city and not
the fire department, which is real-
ty one and the same," he said.
Asked why the fire department
wanted a new chief, Kriha said: "I
think the consensus of the depart-
ment was it was just time for a
change to see what type of new
blood can get in there and try to
make some positive changes."
City Administrator Tom
Hedges praised both Kriha and
Jensen on Friday.
"Bob is a leader whose time
has come. It's in his bloodlines,"
Hedges said in a prepared state-
ment- "Bob's father died this past
summer but served for many
years as the volunteer fire chief
in Montgomery, Minnesota 1
know he would be so proud of
Bob."
Hedges called Jensen a "dedi-
cated public servant" who over-
saw the renovation of two fire sta-
tions, construction of the fire
administration building and the
purchase of new equipment.
In recent years, Jensen said he
helped the city recover from two
back-to-back "100-year floods"
and improved the city's insurance
rating.
The volunteer chief currently
earns $10,800 a year in addition to
$10 per fire call. The city may turn
the fire chief job into a full-time
position within the next few
years. Kriha could apply but isn't
guaranteed the job.
Here is how the current chief
appointment process works:
When the chief is nearing the end
of his 4-year term, officers within
the department apply. The candi-
dates are interviewed by a com-
mittee that consists of a represen-
tative from each of the five fire
stations, two battalion chiefs, a
fire chief from another communi-
ty, the city administrator and the
city's director of human
resources. The committee mem-
bers then rank the candidates,
and the top choice is recommend-
ed to the City Council.
Sixcommittee members chose
Kriha, four chose Jensen and no
one chose the other candidate,
Jim Mueller. The rankings were
done anonymously.
Four committee members con-
tacted by the Pioneer Press
declined to discuss their choice
for chief.
Kriha worked for the city of
Eagan from 1980 until he resigned
earlier this year. His most recent
title was utility construction
inspector. Now he is the develop-
ment supervisor for Manley Land
Development in Eagan.
A 24-year Eagan resident,
Kriha said he is honored to be the
new chief. He said that although
the public probably won't notice
any immediate changes, he will
try to improve the department's
visibility The department will try
to keep up with the standards for
response time and fire prevention,
although there is always room for
improvement, he said.
Amy Sherman covers Dakota Coun-
ty public safety and government.
She can be reached at
asherman(a.pioneerpress.com or
651-228-2174.
SATURDAY,
NOVEMBER 8,
2003
ST. PAUL PIONEER PRESS
LOCAL NEV
INSIDE
TODAY
EAGAN
Vegetable stand
won't be
displaced by
bus garage
Page 2B
EAGAN
Fire chief
who served
7 years must
step aside
Page 2B
ST. PAUL
SOUTH SUBURBAN EDITION ■ WWW.TWINCITiES.COM
MAPLEWOOD
Driver cited on insure
Man who ran over child also tagged on license -tab violation
BY MEGAN BOLDT
and CYNTHIA BOYD
Pioneer Press
The driver of the school bus that
fatally struck a 5-year-old kindergart-
ner Thursday has been ticketed for
registration and insurance violations
in at least three counties since 1996
and was in court in Anoka County the
day before the accident.
Leslie Kinnunen had a hearing
Wednesday for driving without insur-
ance and failure to provide proof of
insurance, according to 'Anoka Coun-
ty records. He had been pulled over
at Northtown Mall in Blaine on
June 17 for an expired registration.
He is scheduled to appear for a hear-
ing on Dec. 30 in that case.
Ramsey County court records
show in 2000, he illegally used license
tabs. Isanti County records show a
gross misdemeanor in 1998 for no
insurance. In 1996, Kinnunen was
arrested for driving after his license
EDUCATION
was suspended for failing to pay
fine for a 1995 speeding ticket, acco
Mg to the Associated Press.
Kinnunen could not be reached
phone or at his home for comme
He was questioned by police, subn
ted to chemical testing as required
law and released.
Kinnunen has been driving for t
Little Canada -based Centerline Ch
ters Corp. since September 2002.
DRIVER CITED, 7B
EAGAN
City Council delays
Copeland water main
By unanimous vote, the Eagan City Council
decided Thursday not to spend about $539,000
to extend a water main to the proposed site of
Mary Jo Copeland's Gift of Mary group home,
saying fund-raising for the home was too ten-
tative.
Copeland has reportedly raised about $3.5
million of the $30 million cost of project -
Copeland has received national media atten-
tion for her vision of a 36-acre project in
Eagan, featuring 20 cottages for up to 200 chil-
dren.
Fund-raising has slowed in the past year,
with Copeland getting no large donations.
SOUTH SUBURBAN BRIEFING
Dick Copeland, Mary Jo's husband, has said
the city approved the final plat, with street and
utility upgrades.
He also pointed out that the water main
extensions already were in the dty's Tong -term
plans.
But council members have said that it
would be more prudent to delay those
improvements until a development was more
likely to be built in the area
— Bob Shaw
DAKOTA COUNTY
County hopes to get
e-commerce label
Dakota County is the first in the state to
(0,L tzs.r %/PJo 3
launch an effort to get its cities and towns
declared "e-commerce certified," a designation
given by the Department of Employment and
Economic Development to recognize a high
level of technological infrastructure,
Six Dakota County cities have earned the
designation, and most others have almost com-
pleted the requirements for certification.
Many communities across Minnesota are
working to get certified, but Dakota is the only
county to set such a goal-
Obtafning the community certifications
would not give Dakota County "much more
than bragging rights,-' said John Fisher, DEED
spokesman.
However, it could serve as a marketing
tool to show businesses considering a move to
the area that the county has the technology to
allow them to effectively compete, he said.
Chelsie Hanstad
