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Highway 7 is Dangerous: Doing Something About It
Hwy 7 is an important east-west artery that runs through the heart of Minnetonka and beyond. It rolls westward to St. Bonifacius, touching five more cities and two counties.
Safety failures–including numerous fatalities and serious injury incidents, and increasing traffic volume, have pushed MnDOT and local agencies to address the design of the corridor.
Suburban Coyotes: A Balance of Nature
The healthy coyote population in the western suburbs reflects their adaptability in spite of environmental changes, housing developments, and evolving ecosystems.
Some people consider these mammals a sign of a balanced natural environment.
On the flip side, the coyote’s sinister wolf-like appearance, coupled with tales of attacks on small pets, can cause plenty of angst.
What’s Your Beef?
Convincing residents to speak at a city council meeting on almost anything is a challenge, unless it directly affects their property. Explanations vary from busy schedules to general discomfort when speaking on camera.
Now there is another reason: A council member who implied he does not want to be bothered by people bringing their “beef” before the council.
Automated License Plate Reading Comes to Town
After a presentation by South Lake Minnetonka Police Department (SLMPD), the Shorewood City Council approved the installation of a Flock Safety camera system during their regular meeting on October 23, 2023.
The Public Safety Aid awarded to cities in the 2023 legislative session was used to fund the camera system, which includes four cameras: one for each city in the SLMPD service area.
The Regional Trail: Ash Borer Brings Drastic Change
The Hennepin County Rail Authority is currently removing diseased and dead ash trees along the Lake Minnetonka Regional Trail corridor in Shorewood.
Work began the week of December 6, 2021, and aims to address the threat posed by the invasive emerald ash borer.
Drilling Down on Municipal Water
On 11/25/2024 the Shorewood council hashed over the ongoing dilemma of the underwater municipal water fund.
It discussed incentives for residents, who have existing “stubs” to connect to the municipal water system. The council also laid out some ideas for a more “mandatory” approach.
Outdoor Ice Rinks: Pros & Cons
Backyard ice rinks are enjoyed by many families, particularly in winter loving states like Minnesota.
Be aware that setting up a rink in your yard comes with responsibilities and considerations to ensure safe and respectful use and compliance with any city code.
Here’s a quick guide:
Let’s Talk Trash
Shorewood leadership considered city organized trash collection in 2019. “Organized hauling” is when the city contracts with one hauler based on bids and the best service value.
Results from a resident survey in 2019 were all that was needed to shelve the discussion. A survey is a piece of a much larger pie. Other relevant data is available that should be factored into a sound decision by the council.
Crows: They know who you are!
The collective noun for a group of crows is a murder, also known as a horde, a mob or a parliament.
With that bit of trivia, if you have noticed a “murder” of crows that seem to be stalking you, perhaps after chasing one away from the bird feeder, you may be right!
