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Official Site of the Government of Stevens Point, Wisconsin
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Archive of StevensPoint.com's 2010
Home Page News Stories
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Skateboard Park to Break Ground
July, 2010
Construction of the Stevens Point Skate
Park is scheduled to start very soon. The Skate Park Committee will be hosting a ground breaking ceremony on Thursday,
July 29 in Bukolt Park in the grassy area across from the boat landing (where the skate park will be located) at
11 :30 AM.
Whiting Ave. to Close
July, 2010
Whiting Avenue will be closed to traffic
at Water Street starting Monday, July 26,
2010 for about one week, weather permitting. Work involves sewer and water main
connections and street reconstruction. Please find an alternate route during this closure.
Stevens Point Transit and Portage County offer
"Travel Training"
Giving you the Confidence, Skill,and Independence you need
to get you where you want to go
July, 2010
The Aging and Disability Resource Center
of Portage County hired Julie Summers to work as Travel Trainer under the Federal New Freedom Grant for 2010. This
program is designed to give people with disabilities and seniors the "Skill, Confidence and Independence"
to access and ride transportation in Portage County. The Travel Trainer offers familiarization training for groups
and individuals to raise awareness of travel options available. Julie also offers one to one training with sessions
individualized to teach safe, independent travel skills.
Julie's office is located at the Stevens Point Transit facility, and the program is open to anyone, not only seniors
or individuals with disabilities. Group or businesses can also benefit from travel training. [Get More Information about Travel Training]
Move to Improve - Fitness Opportunity
July, 2010
Portage County CAN is hosting a physical
activity program to help get you moving. Move to Improve is kicking off July 26th through September 19th. This
is an eight-week program geared towards increasing physical activity among Portage County community members which
ultimately leads individuals to adopt a healthier and more active lifestyle. Studies show that physical activity
can help control weight, promote psychological well-being, reduce the risk of dying prematurely, and build and
maintain healthy bones, muscles, and joints. [Get
More Information about Move to Improve]
Juried Art Exhibit at Riverfront Arts Center
July, 2010
Visions XII, the 12th annual juried exhibit,
is on display at the Riverfront
Arts Center now until July 31. The photos
below feature some of the pieces currently on display.
Free Bus Rides during Krazy Days
July, 2010
Stevens Point Transit "City Bus"
will be offering our annual Free Rides on all fixed route buses on Thursday, July 15 and Friday July 16 for Krazy
Days. In addition, "Millie" the trolley will be downtown providing free rides both days from 12:00-2:00.
Portage County Crime Stoppers -
Stolen Boat Motors
July, 2010
In March, two residences on Chippewa Trail in the
Township of Dewey in northern Portage County were targeted by thieves. Officers were called to the 1200 and 1300
block of Chippewa Trail for reports of theft of outboard motors. Owners of the properties stated that they had
nearly $6,0000 worth of boat motors and two trolling motors taken off of their boats.
The motors taken are: a 25 horse power mercury outboard serial # OT838456, a 25 horsepower Yamaha electric start,
model number F25ELHD with serial number 65WL1017622. There were also two Minn Kota trolling motors taken from each
residence. Evidence from both scenes were gathered by detectives and showed the suspects parked on Chippewa Trail
and walked in each residence and stole the motors off the boats and walked them to the road. The boats were both
stored by the residences.
If you have any information about this theft or have seen the stolen property, call Portage County Crime Stoppers
at 1-888-346-6600. You can remain anonymous and still be eligible for a cash reward.
Stevens Point Airport Master Flight Instructor
Wins Award
June, 2010
Wanda Zuege, Master Flight Instructor at
the Stevens Point Municipal Airport and owner of Am I High Aviation, LLC was chosen as the first-ever recipient
of FAA's State and Regional General Aviation Awards!on the basis of sustained superior performance as well as specific
contributions and accomplishments to receive four special recognition awards for 2010.
- 2010 Wisconsin Certified Flight Instructor Of The
Year
- 2010 Wisconsin FAA Safety Team Lead Representative
Of The Year.
- 2010 Certified Flight Instructor Of The Year/Great
Lakes Region
- 2010 FAA Safety Team Lead Representative Of The
Year/Great Lakes Region
- In each of the past 47 years, the General Aviation
Awards program and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have recognized a small group of aviation professionals
in the fields of flight instruction, aviation maintenance, avionics and safety for their contributions to aviation
safety and education.
This awards program is a cooperative effort between
the FAA and a dozen industry sponsors. The selection process begins with the local FAA Safety Team managers at
the Flight Standards District Offices (FSDO) and then moves on to the eight Regional FAA offices. This year a single
winner became the recipient of both Wisconsin and Great Lakes Region for the 2010 awards.
Two-Time Master CFI, Wanda Zuege, has been flying
since 1990 and instructing since 2001 earning the following certificates and ratings along the way: ATP, Commercial,
ASEL-I, AMEL-I, CFI, CFI-I, IGI, MCFI and Gold Seal Flight Instructor. As the owner of Am I High Aviation, LLC,
Zuege provides a 14-day Private Pilot program, a 7-day Instrument Program, and monthly 2-day ground schools for
the Private, Sport, Instrument, CFI-Instrument, and IGI knowledge tests.
As a FAASTeam representative since 2007, Zuege conducts
FAA Safety Meetings at the Stevens Point Municipal Airport, EAA AirVenture and the CFI/DPE Program for the Milwaukee
FSDO to discuss important safety information targeting areas that produce the most general aviation accidents and
violations: Operating in America's Airspace, Surface Navigation at controlled and uncontrolled airports, Risk Management,
Alien Flight Training Program Requirements and Security-Related Airspace.
New Community Development Director Announced
June, 2010
Mayor Andrew Halverson reports that the
city's new Community Development Director will be Michael Ostrowski. Ostrowski currently serves as the Director
of Planning and Economic Development for the City of Wisconsin Rapids, and once served as the Mayoral Assistant
here in Stevens Point. "He will be a great addition to the City staff. He has great credentials which include
two masters degrees - a Masters of Public Administration and a Masters of Urban Planning." Halverson says.
"I look forward to introducing Michael and sharing some of the great things he has done in Wisconsin Rapids,
and talking about his future here in the City of Stevens Point."
Portage County Hosts Summer Fit Kids Challenge
2010
June, 2010
Over the last few decades, child obesity
has been on the rise. Research indicates that obesity has more than tripled among children and adolescents, rising
up to 17% from only 5% in the 1970s. A new study also found that the most inappropriate weight gain for children
occurs during the summer months while children are away from school.
To keep kids active throughout the summer, Portage County CAN has teamed up with the Aspirus Network to launch
the Summer Fit Kids Challenge. Every child in elementary school is being encouraged to participate by taking the
challenge of completing 100 hours of physical activity from now through the beginning of the school year in September.
[Read More
about the Summer Fit Kids Challenge]
Summer Public Skating at the KB Willett Ice Arena
June, 2010
We are offering 5 Public Skating sessions
this summer: Saturday, June 12 and 19 from 1-2:50 p.m.; and Sunday, June 6, 13, and 20 from 1-2:50 p.m. Admission
is $3.00 and skate rentals are available. [Read
More about the Willett Arena]
Dog Park Grand Opening Saturday, June 26
June, 2010
Stevens Point dogs and their owners are
invited to the opening of Point Dog Park on Saturday, June 26 at 9:30 a.m. The ribbon cutting ceremony will take
place at 10. The Park's largest section, the 20+ acre Schierl Family Pet Exercise and Play area, will be ready
for leashless play. The small dog area will be fenced off and landscaped later this summer. [Get More Information]
Red Arrow Soldiers Converge on Stevens Point
for State Homecoming Celebration
June, 2010
Wisconsin is invited to honor the 3,200
Soldiers and families of the 32nd 'Red Arrow' Infantry Brigade Combat Team and celebrate the completion of their
successful tour of duty to Iraq with a parade, live entertainment and family-friendly activities.
The June 19 'Back from the Sand' celebration in Stevens Point is possible due to generous contributions from Sentry
Insurance, USO of Illinois/Wisconsin and numerous other contributors.
The parade kicks off at noon, featuring the units that deployed as part of the 32nd Brigade and representatives
from their local communities. The best parade viewing will be along Second Street, from the intersection of Maria
Drive and Second Street, to the north and the intersection of Portage Street and Second Street. We encourage parade
viewers to bring their own flags and or signs to wave.
Following the parade, Gov. Jim Doyle will join members of Congress, state legislators, mayors and National Guard
officials at a recognition ceremony at Pfiffner Pioneer Park. Live music - including The Spirit of the USO - Illinois
and country singers Brian Stace and Brittini Black - military displays and family-friendly activities will also
be featured. Food will be free for Soldiers and their families, and available for purchase to the public. The event
will conclude at 6 p.m.
[Read More
about the Homecoming Celebration]
Freedom Passes Available
May, 2010
City Bus "Freedom Passes" are now available at ShopKo, Trigs, and Copps on Church street! A Freedom Pass
offers elementary through high school students an opportunity for freedom and independence this summer. Use the
City Bus to go where you want, when you want, as many times as you want! Purchase a Freedom Pass for $20 and ride
the City Bus all summer long.
Public Square Redesign Conceptual Plans
May, 2010
In April, the Downtown Task Force was presented
with two preliminary concepts for redesigning the Public Square from the Rettler Corporation. A third concept was
presented at the Downtown Task Force meeting on May 11, 2010.
[See
Concept A | See Concept B | See Concept C]
Veterans History on Community TV
May, 2010
Produced by a local veteran, this series
of programs features interviews with Stevens Point area veterans of WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom,
and others. The first two episodes played Memorial Day and the days following, and you can watch a two more episodes
every weekend until you've seen all ten programs.
[See the Community
TV Program Schedule]
Fly-In Air Show June 6
May, 2010
Stevens Point Pilots Association Presents
an Air Show Fly-in, Drive-In at the Stevens Point Municipal Airport on Sunday, June 6, 2010 from 7:00 AM until
4:00 PM. Admission is Free. [Get More Info.]
Notice to All Customers of the Stevens Point
Water & Sewage Departments
May, 2010
Anyone needing to come to the Stevens Point
Water & Sewage Departments will need to take Park Street to Bliss Avenue due to construction and Water Street
being closed.
Water St. Closed
May, 2010
Water Street is closed from Whiting Avenue to Koch
Street (railroad tracks), for sewer and water main replacement and street reconstruction. A signed detour for motorists
will use River View Avenue, Church Street, Division Street and Wisconsin Street. This closure is Phase one of a
two-phase construction schedule for Water Street. Phase two will be from Koch Street (railroad tracks) to Wisconsin
Street. Scheduled completion of phase one is August 13, 2010 and phase two is November 12, 2010.
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation has allocated up to $1.08 million towards the total $1.8 million to
reconstruct Water Street. These federal funds were granted through the Surface Transportation Program - Urban.
STP-U funding is only available for roads functionally classified as major collectors or higher.
[See
the Detour Map]
Crime Stoppers - Downtown Stevens Point Burglaries
May, 2010
On Sunday, May 9 between 4:00 PM and 6:30
PM, three downtown Stevens Point businesses were the victims of burglaries. Arbuckles, Robin's Nest Gifts, and
Gepetto's were all the broken into resulting in a loss of several thousand dollars. Forced entry was used to enter
the stores during the mid-afternoon hours. We are hoping that someone passing by this area may have information
that would prove helpful in solving these crimes.
If you have any information about this crime or any other crime that has occurred in Portage County, call Portage
County Crime Stoppers at 1-888-346-6600.
"Green Menace" Emerald Ash Borer Info
on TV
May, 2010
The US Forest Service and other agencies
produced a video called "The Green Menace" that is playing on Community TV this week.
[See the Community
TV Program Schedule]
May 23-29 is Emerald Ash Borer Awareness Week
May, 2010
Wisconsin and 15 other states will observe
Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) Awareness Week, May 23-29, 2010. Through a proclamation, Gov. Doyle urged state residents
and visitors to become better educated about emerald ash borer and to take action to help slow the spread of this
invasive pest.
"Wisconsin's ash resource is under attack by this invasive beetle. Ash trees in our yards, parks, and forests
improve the quality of life in our state and are worth protecting," said Department of Agriculture, Trade
and Consumer Protection (DATCP) Secretary Rod Nilsestuen. "Protecting this resource against the emerald ash
borer is something we can all do by educating ourselves and taking action to help slow the spread of the tree-killing
beetle across the state."
[Read about
Stevens Point's EAB Program]
Stevens Point Area Neighborhood Gardens
April, 2010
The Stevens Point Area Neighborhood Gardens
(SPANG) project started in December 2007 with a small group of interested citizens from the City of Stevens Point,
Golden Sands Resource Conservation & Development (RC&D), University of Wisconsin Stevens Point Sustainable
Agriculture in Communities Society (SACS), Interfaith Community for the Earth (ICE), and Portage County Master
Gardeners. Their mission is to strengthen our community by providing common ground for neighbors to garden together
and get to know each other.
Since 2008, three gardens/plots have been
established on city properties. Plots are rented to residents for a small annual fee, with preference given to
those living nearby. The fees collected go towards the expense of establishing the gardens. Gardens will have an
appropriate perimeter fence, composting area, and water barrels. A tool chest with some garden tools to share may
also be provided. There are Site Captains to help organize events, provide advice, and assist with any questions.
Group activities will be encouraged such as a harvest festival and clean up at the end of the season. Also, any
experienced gardeners will be asked to "mentor" new gardeners.
If you would like more information about this program or own a parcel of land you would allow neighbors to gardened
on, please contact Golden
Sands Resource Conservation & Development
at 715-343-6214.
I-39/US-51 Lane & Ramp Closures Begin May
4
April, 2010
Motorists can expect to encounter I-39/US 51 single lane closures in the Stevens Point area beginning Tuesday,
May 4. The closures are necessary so crews can repaint the North Second Street, Wilshire Drive and Barbara's Lane
overpasses.
Crews will also need to close the I-39 northbound entrance ramp and the southbound exit ramp at the North Business
51 interchange for approximately one week. [Read More...]
Hoover Underpass Project Taking Shape in May
2010
April, 2010
Beginning in May 2010, workers and residents
who utilize the Hoover north/south route will begin seeing signs that the Hoover underpass, estimated to be a $15
Million project, is no longer just a thought, but becoming a reality. Because of cooperation from multiple levels
of government and the private sector, 3000-plus employees impacted by the Canadian National Railroad crossing on
Hoover Ave. will begin seeing a light at the end of their commute tunnel. What have become waiting times in excess
of 30 minutes will be eliminated by the eventual completion of this project. [Read more...]
Road Construction Projects are Beginning
April, 2010
Spring has sprung, and road construction
season is upon us. Yellow dandelions and orange barrels are popping up all over town. [See Road Construction Info.]
Water Mains being Cleaned
May, 2010
The Water Department plans to clean all
water mains starting around 10:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 2 and continuing to 6:00 a.m. Monday, and repeating each
consecutive night until Friday, May 7.
During these times, your water pressure might be low, but water will not be shut off. You may see discolored water
during the process.
Notice of Open Book and Review
April, 2010
Public Notice is Hereby Given that the 2010
Board of Review for the said City of Stevens Point, Wisconsin, will meet on the 20th day of May 2010 at 9:00 A.M.
in the City Conference Room, 1515 Strongs Avenue, for the purpose reviewing and examining the assessment roll of
real and personal property in said city, and all sworn statements and valuations of real and personal property
therein, and of correcting all errors in said roll, whether in description of property or otherwise, and to perform
such other duties imposed by law.
Public Notice is also Hereby Given that
the Open book will be held in the Assessor's Office located at 1515 Strongs Avenue on Monday, May 3, 2010, to Friday,
May 7, 2010, from 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM. Open Book is an informational session with the Assessor's Office where you
will learn how your assessment was made, what factors were considered, and what type of records are kept regarding
your property. [Read
more...]
See Treasures of the Deep at the Riverfront Arts
Center
April, 2010
Underwater Photography by Vivian Weber-Pagel
and Hot Glass by area artists are featured at the Riverfront Arts Center April 9 - May 16. [See
a Slideshow of Photos]
Stevens Point to Celebrate Arbor Day
April, 2010
Stevens Point officials will mark Arbor
Day with a special tree planting scheduled for 11:00 a.m., Thursday April 29 at Forest Cemetery. A fourth grade
class from McKinley School will assist Mayor Andrew Halverson plant seven trees. The planting will take place by
the green maintenance building in the cemetery.
The National Arbor Day Association has recognized the City of Stevens Point as a Tree City USA for the 29th year,
and has awarded Stevens Point its tenth Tree City USA Growth Award. If a city achieves ten Tree City USA Growth
Awards, it receives the designation of a Sterling Tree City USA. To qualify to be a Tree City USA, municipalities
must have a Tree Board, adopt a Community Tree Ordinance, have Community Forestry Program, and have an Arbor Day
Celebration. The Growth Award was created to recognize environmental improvements and higher levels of tree care
in Tree City USA communities.
In 2009, 181 Wisconsin communities received the Tree City USA designation, 23 communities earned a Growth Award,
and to date Stevens Point is the eighth community in Wisconsin to achieve a Sterling Tree City USA status.
UWSP and Late Night Buses Continue
April, 2010
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point students
voted the week of March 15, 2010 to continue funding the Campus Connection/Shopping and Late Night Transit bus
routes for at least another year. These popular student services demonstrate how UWSP and the city of Stevens Point
can partner to the benefit of both. [Read
More...]
Crime Stoppers Seeks Information about Thefts
April, 2010
Sometime during the weekend of March 6 and
7, someone cut a padlock and removed about $2,000 worth of construction tools from the SPASH Construction storage
trailer while it was parked on a work site at 417 NorthPoint Dr. Items taken include a Craftsman cordless Saws-all,
circular saw, stapler, and batteries for these tools, as well as an air compressor, a pneumatic stapler, a pneumatic
nailer, and a Dewalt miter Saw. During the same weekend, a construction trailer on Dubay Ave.,not far from SPASH
job site, was the scene of an attempted break-in.
If you have any information about this crime or any other crime that has occurred in Portage County, call Portage
County Crime Stoppers at 1-888-346-6600.
Restrooms in Parks Open May 1
April, 2010
As the temperatures warm up and everyone
wants to get out and enjoy our parks, please keep in mind that the restrooms may not be available because the buildings
are not heated, and we need to keep the water turned off to ensure that water lines do not break if the temperatures
cool down or if there is still frost in the ground around the buildings. We will try to open some restrooms that
are located in the more open areas of our major parks as soon as we feel it is safe. All restrooms and park buildings
will be open by May 1, our official re-opening of the parks the for the summer season.
Tornado Drill Thursday, April 22
April, 2010
Locally, Portage County schools, businesses
and government agencies will participate in the statewide communications drill on Thursday, April 22. A "test"
TORNADO WATCH will be issued at approximately 1:00 PM followed by a "test" TORNADO WARNING at approximately
1:10-1:15 PM. At the time of the simulated TORNADO WARNING, all County and City sirens will be activated and tested.
City Meeting Cablecast Delayed Tuesday, April
13
April, 2010
Due to an extra long School Board meeting
replay that starts at 5:00 p.m. today, tonight's replay of last night's city committee meetings will not start
until 9:05 p.m. Local government meetings are seen on Community TV, digital channel
984 and analog channel 95. City and county meetings are also available for viewing on this web site within 24 hours
of the time they are recorded. School Board meeting videos are available on the school district's web site.
Ice Show "Celebr8 & Sk8" April
10 & 11
April, 2010
Presented by the Stevens Point Parks &
Recreation Department and the Crystal Ice Figure Skating Club, the 2010 Ice Show "Celebr8 & Sk8"
will be Saturday, April 10 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., and Sunday, April 11 at 2:00 p.m. at the K B Willett Indoor
Ice Arena.
See
the Ice Show Flyer for more information.
(pdf)
Thank You for Voting!
April, 2010
The results for all contested City Aldermanic
District races are:
Aldermanic District # 2
Joanne Suomi 128
Hans Walther 100 |
|
Aldermanic District # 4
Wiza 314
Write-Ins 7 |
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Aldermanic District #5
Mary Stroik 259
David Ratz 133
Write-Ins 3 |
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Aldermanic District #6
Jeremy Slowinski 703
Write-Ins 6 |
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Aldermanic District #8
Marge Molski 558
Write-Ins 5 |
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Aldermanic District #10
Brian Brooks 333
Barb Jacob 167
Write-Ins 3 |
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Results are unofficial until after the canvass
on April 7.
Other
Election Results will be posted on the Portage County Web Site.
Downtown Task Force Meets April 8
April, 2010
At the January, 2010 City Council meeting,
Mayor Halverson announced plans to address Mathias Mitchell Public Square revitalization and diagonal parking on
Main Street. The Mayor then appointed a Downtown Task Force and Square Revitalization Committee whose charge was
to develop a revitalization plan for the Public Square by holding meetings and listening sessions to gain public
input regarding the Square's current and future uses.
If you would like to add your input, the next Downtown Task Force meeting will be held at Kristen's Riverwalk,
1140 Clark St., on Thursday, April 8 at 6:00 p.m.
See
the meeting agenda. (pdf)
Tennis Courts Open for the Season
March, 2010
The six tennis courts in Goerke
Park and two in Mead Park are open for public use. The courts are available on a first-come, first-served (no pun
intended) basis until 11:00 p.m. every day. The court lights are on timers and will shut off at 11 p.m. See a Map of all Parks
Absentee Ballots Available
March, 2010
Ballots are now available for city residents
who wish to vote early for the April 6 Spring Election. Voters have two options for voting absentee, the first
is to vote at the City Clerk's office in City Hall, 1515 Strongs Avenue, now through April 5. The second option
is to submit a written request/application to receive an absentee ballot through the mail. Requests to receive
an absentee ballot by mail must be received by the Clerk's office no later than 5:00 p.m. Thursday, April 1. Read more.
Easter Egg Hunt April 3
March, 2010
The Easter Bunny will be busy hiding 16,000
candy-filled eggs, many with prize slips inside. Watch your little ones age 8 and under gather them up. Lucky finders
of one of the several "special" eggs will receive a new bicycle.
City Seeks Bids for Public Works Projects
March, 2010
The Board of Public Works of the City of
Stevens Point will receive sealed bids for the 2010 Bituminous Patching Project and the 2010 Sanitary Sewer Lining
Project until 11:00 A.M. local time, April 6, 2010, at the office of the Director of Public Works, County-City
Building, 1515 Strongs Avenue, Stevens Point, Wisconsin, at which time the bids will be publicly opened and read
aloud in the City-Conference Room, County-City Building, 1515 Strongs Avenue, Stevens Point, Wisconsin.
See Project Details and Download Plans
and Bidding Documents
Police & Fire Departments Seek Information
about Fires
March, 2010
The Stevens Point Police Department and
the Stevens Point Fire Department are seeking the community's assistance in addressing a series of fires which
have occurred over the past eighteen months in the Stevens Point area. This information is being presented to the
public for the purpose of increasing awareness and public safety. Investigators also wish to receive additional
information from the public which will assist in identifying the person responsible for these fires. Since
May 2008, during the hours of darkness, more than twenty fires have occurred in the City of Stevens Point and the
Village of Plover. Investigators believe these fires were intentionally set. The fires have involved occupied and
unoccupied structures, automobiles, and miscellaneous property.
See
an Interactive Map of the Fire Locations
Read More
Information about the Fires and Fire Prevention
32nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team Homecoming
Celebration
March, 2010
The Wisconsin National Guard has chosen
the City of Stevens Point to host the 32nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) Homecoming Celebration in June.
The Wisconsin National Guard and the 32nd IBCT will propose courses of action regarding the day's events, and say
they "look forward to working with the City of Stevens Point and the Patriots of your great community."
"Courses of Action" will take place in Pfiffner Pioneer Park on Saturday, June 19. City staff and the
Stevens Point Area Convention & Visitors Bureau will be working with the National Guard staff on finalizing
the date and events over the next two weeks.
The City of Stevens Point is honored to have been chosen to host this welcome home for our troops. These troops
have served, and will continue to serve, our great nation in these difficult times.
April 6 Courthouse Referendum Information on
Community TV
March, 2010
On the newest episode of his TV program,
"Inside the County Lines," Portage County Executive Mark Maslowski and his guests provide information
about the upcoming referendum concerning the possible building of a new Portage County Courthouse. Mark's guests
include Portage County Board Chairman Phil Idsvoog, Circuit Court Branch 2 Judge John Finn, Portage County Sheriff
John Charewicz, and District 6 Court Administrator Ron Ledford.
"Inside the County Lines" can be seen on Community TV, analog channel 95 and digital channel 984, at
the following times: Thursdays at 7:00 a.m. and 7:30 p.m., Fridays at 7:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., Saturdays at 1:30
p.m. and 7:00 p.m., and Wednesdays at 4:30 p.m.
You can also watch "Inside the County Lines" here.
Wastewater Treatment Lab one of Best in the State
March, 2010
On January 29, the Wisconsin Department
of Natural Resources conducted an on-site evaluation of the Stevens Point Wastewater Treatment facility to determine
compliance with Wisconsin Chapter NR 149, Laboratory Certification and Registration, and now reports that its inspector s found no deficiencies
in the facility, which the inspectors said is "very impressive." Camille Johnson, the DNR's audit chemist,
said "Your lab continues to be one of the best in the state."
Fix a Leak Week March 15-21
March, 2010
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
estimates that 1 trillion gallons of water are wasted from residential leaks in the United States every year, equivalent
to the annual water usage of Los Angeles, Chicago, and Miami combined. That's why the Public Service Commission
of Wisconsin (PSC) is promoting "Fix a Leak Week," March 15-21, 2010. Fix a Leak Week serves as an annual
reminder for consumers to conserve water by fixing leaky plumbing fixtures and irrigation systems.
Read the Fix a Leak Week Brochure (pdf)
For more information, visit EPA's Fix a Leak web site
Riverfront Arts Center releases 2010 Exhibit
Schedule
February, 2010
Established in 1999 by the City of Stevens
Point under the auspices of the Stevens Point Arts Council, the Riverfront Arts Center's gallery at 1200 Crosby
Ave., on the east bank of the river, hosts art exhibits and workshops in a variety of media.
Their next exhibit, which will run March 21 - April 3, is "Peeps Show" - a community exhibit fun art
using candy Peeps.
See Photos of Peeps
& More Information.
Ice Show "Celebr8 & Sk8" April
10 & 11
February, 2010
Presented by the Stevens Point Parks &
Recreation Department and the Crystal Ice Figure Skating Club, the 2010 Ice Show "Celebr8 & Sk8"
will be Saturday, April 10 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., and Sunday, April 11 at 2:00 p.m. at the K B Willett Indoor
Ice Arena.
See
the Ice Show Flyer for more information.
(pdf)
City Pruning Street Trees
February, 2010
City of Stevens Point Forestry Department
personnel are currently pruning city street trees. The city is responsible for all work performed on the trees
in the right-of-way. Winter is an excellent time to prune trees because with the leaves off, it is easy to examine
the branching structure of the tree. Some trees, such as Oaks, should only be pruned during winter dormancy.
Read more about
tree pruning.
Mayor Explains City's Snow Removal and Ice Control
Procedures
February, 2010
With the arrival of yet another winter season,
we in city government are again charged with the necessary but unpredictable task of snow and ice control: necessary
for the obvious reasons of public safety and preservation of life and property. Mayor Halverson has had a chance
to read some of the open letters that arose after the last few snow falls, and wanted to take some time to explain
procedures and protocols for how the City tackles this unique task. Read the Mayor's Letter.
New Requirements for Carbon Monoxide Alarms
New regulations were issued as emergency
rules by the state Department of Commerce, Safety and Buildings Division, as required by April 2008 legislation
titled "2007 Wisconsin Act 205." Most one and two-family dwellings are not included in the regulations,
although installing CO alarms in those homes is a good idea. The residential types included in the new regulations
are tourist rooming houses (cabins), bed and breakfast establishments, and any public building used for sleeping
or lodging, such as hotels, motels, condominiums, apartment buildings, dormitories, fraternities, sororities, convents,
seminaries, jails, prisons, home shelters, and community-based residential facilities. Hospitals and nursing homes
are not included.
See
the Dept. of Commerce Brochure for more information.
(pdf)
Center for Land Use Education partners with the
City of Stevens Point to hire Sustainability Coordinator
January, 2010
The Center for Land Use Education (CLUE),
a joint venture between the College of Natural Resources at UW-Stevens Point and University Extension, recently
hired Joe Kottwitz as an LTE Sustainability Coordinator until the end of June. The position was created to assist
sustainability efforts in the City of Stevens Point and Central Wisconsin. Stevens Point, an Eco-Municipality since
June 2008, is continuing to move forward with sustainability efforts. Read more about the Sustainability Coordinator.
City vies to have 100-year Floodplain
Removed; Residents to Benefit
January, 2010
The City of Stevens Point is in the process
of reexamining a large zone of land, mostly residential, located just south of the downtown area which is a designated
100-year floodplain. The City has retained an engineering firm, AECOM, to indicate what would need to be done to
achieve removing this area from the 100-year floodplain. This removal would benefit approximately 200 households
by eliminating the mandate that they carry flood insurance. This flood insurance is not only a financial burden,
but it often impinges on the homeowner's ability to sell. Flood insurance costs in upwards of $1400 per year. Central
City living is a priority of the City of Stevens Point, and removal would help continue to meet that goal. Read more about
the floodplain removal.
City Testing Economical & Environmentally
Friendly Lighting
January, 2010
In an effort to find more and better ways
to save money for its taxpayers and increase sustainability, the City of Stevens Point, an Eco-Municipality, has
begun testing the effectiveness of economically and environmentally friendly alternatives to High Pressure Sodium
(HPS) street lights.
This test marks a proactive approach to finding a fiscally responsible, environmentally friendly street lighting
alternative to the current HPS lights, and is one of the largest trials of its kind in the Country. The trial utilizes
two sections of street lights in the Portage County Business Park. Existing lights have been retrofitted with new
Light Emitting Diode (LED), high-intensity fluorescent (HIF), and induction lighting fixtures. Read more about the lighting test.
City Meetings Cablecast Delayed Tuesday, February
9
February, 2010
Due to an extra long School Board meeting
replay that starts at 5:00 p.m. today, tonight's replay of last night's city committee meetings will not start
until 7:45 p.m. Local government meetings are seen on Community TV, digital channel 984 and analog channel 95.
City and county meetings are also available for viewing on this web site within 24 hours of the time they are recorded.
School Board meeting videos are available on the school district's web site.
Absentee Ballots Available
January, 2010
Ballots are now available for city residents
who wish to vote early for the February 16 Primary. See a sample ballot. (pdf)
Voters have two options for voting absentee. The first is to vote at the City Clerk's office in City Hall, 1515
Strongs Avenue, now through February 15. The second option is to submit a written request/application to receive
an absentee ballot through the mail.
Requests to receive an absentee ballot by mail must be received by the Clerk's office no later than 5:00 p.m. Thursday,
February 11. The completed ballot must be received by the Clerk's office no later than the day of the election
so that it can be delivered to the polling location by 8:00 p.m.
Individuals who have not already registered to vote or those who have either moved or changed their name that they
will need to re-register before they will be allowed to vote. Applications for absentee ballots are
available from the State's Web Site, and
voter registration forms are available at the Clerk's office and on this page (below).
Please note that there are exceptions for military voters and indefinitely confined electors. Please contact the
Clerk's office at 346-1569 for more information.
New Episode of "The Mayor's Office"
Focuses on Stevens Point Transit
January, 2010
Mayor Andrew Halverson has recorded a new
episode of his TV program "The Mayor's Office" which you can see on Community Television, channel 984
on Charter digital and 95 on Charter analog cable. In this episode, Mayor Halverson talks with guests Alderperson
Hans Walther and Transit Manager Susan Lemke about Stevens
Point Transit, the new Transit Development
Plan, and the many services provided by the City Bus System.
"The Mayor's Office" can be seen on Community
TV at the following times: Mondays at 6:30
p.m., Tuesdays at 4:30 p.m., Wednesdays at 7:00 a.m., Thursdays at 7:00 p.m., Fridays at 5:30 p.m., and Saturdays
at 1:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Watch "The Mayor's Office" Episode 8 NOW in our video archive.
City Meeting Cablecast Delayed Tuesday, January
12
January, 2010
Due to a 3 1/2 hour School Board meeting
replay that starts at 5:00 p.m. today, tonight's replay of last night's city committee meetings will not start
until 8:30 p.m. Local government meetings are seen on Community TV, digital channel 984 and analog channel 95.
City and county meetings are also available for viewing on this web site within 24 hours of the time they are recorded.
School Board meeting videos are available on the school district's web site.
Business Owners - Complete your Statement of
Personal Property
January, 2010
The City of Stevens Point Assessor's Office
has sent a letter to all business owners in the city to remind them that, as required by State Statute, they must
complete a Statement of Personal Property. A copy of the 2010 Statement of Personal Property, which must be filled
out and returned to the Assessor, is included with the letter, as are instructions for filling out the Statement.
For your convenience, links to the Assessor's letter and to the Statement are also available in the "News
and Resource Library" area of the Assessor's Office web page here.
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