City Beat: A new survey, an old fountain & more!

February 23, 2021

Did you know that Memorial Park has nearly 30 miles of trails to explore all year long? Whether you want to hit the cross-country ski trails, give winter biking a try, or just bundle up and hike, why not enjoy our return to warmer temps by getting active outdoors in one of Red Wing's favorite parks?

Check out the park's trail maps to plan your winter adventure.

Photo of the sole of a winter boot as someone hikes through snow with sun flare in upper right corner

Supporting Our Officers

While the Police Department is in transition at this time, City Council’s support of our officers is unwavering. The work our officers perform every day is critical and done with a level of professionalism that makes us proud. Their jobs are some of the hardest in our community, and we're grateful we have them. "We're looking forward to upcoming meetings with the department to hear from them about their concerns and needs going forward, and to ensure they have the support they need to do their critical work," says Becky Norton, City Council President. The Red Wing Police Department will continue to protect and serve our community, led by Interim Police Chief Gordon Rohr.

A Splashy Donation

Thanks to the generous contributions of a local philanthropist, the fountain in John Rich Park is about to be renovated back to its former glory. Originally, John H. Rich donated funds to create the park during the City Beautiful Movement in the early 20th century. After renovation, the fountain will resemble its original design with some hidden modern improvements. Read up on the park's history and proposed future of the beautiful fountain, then check in on the project's progress in future editions of City Beat.

Five Minutes - Six Questions

Help Red Wing in Emergency Preparedness

Aerial photo of downtown Red Wing above the words Prairie Island Nuclear Generating Plant Demographic Survey

A new survey opportunity is available to residents to assist with emergency preparedness actions between the City and Prairie Island Nuclear Generating Plant. The survey is just six questions and will take fewer than five minutes to complete, but the answers will have a significant impact on future emergency preparedness planning.

So if you're at least 18 years old, take just a couple of minutes to complete the survey for your household today!

Live from the Sheldon Theatre

The Sheldon Theatre has some exciting news to share! Jeff Larson has been at the helm of the theatre for several months as its interim director and we hope you'll join us in congratulating him on his new permanent role as the Executive Director. This Friday, February 26 at 5:15 p.m., join the Sheldon for a virtual meet and greet with Jeff and the chance to ask questions about what's next for Red Wing's beloved jewel-box theatre, including upcoming virtual events beginning this week!

Liquor Licenses are Free for 2021

When it comes to helping Red Wing businesses affected by COVID-19, every dollar counts. That's why the City Council voted to waive intoxicating liquor licensing fees for the licensing period from July 1, 2021, through June 30, 2022. While eligible establishments will still need to apply for their license as usual, all associated intoxicating licensing fees will be waived. It may not sound like much, but it adds up to about $50,000 that local businesses will save this year, and we say cheers to that!

Image of empty glasses hanging upside down with Cheers in white letters along the bottom of the image

Capital Improvement Planning 101

As a resident, you may wonder how the City plans to divide its funds among various infrastructure projects. Enter CIP. Think of a Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) as a Community Investment Plan. It's a tool to help cities plan out their current and future infrastructure needs, including how funds will be divvied up between various projects. If you want a look at the City's financial plans for the present and future, check out the Capital Improvement Plan on the City's website.

The Search is On

HRA looks for a new Executive Director

With the retirement of Randal Hemmerlin earlier this year, the Red Wing Housing & Redevelopment Authority is accepting applications for a new Executive Director. The application period will run to March 10, 2021. If that sounds like the job for you, visit the HRA's website for more details and submit your application!

Keeping PACE with Energy

The Red Wing Port Authority has been working hard to provide resources of COVID-19-related assistance for businesses and non-profit organizations, but did you know their website also offers a whole library of business incentives that are available? From going greener with help from the Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) Financing Program to the Public Relations Grant Program for non-profit organizations, there are many programs to help your business or non-profit through COVID-19 times and beyond.

Learn About the Policy & Practice Project

If you're looking to find out more about the City's Policy and Practice Project, its Advisory Team, and the work toward a more equitable government, our website page has everything you need: meeting materials, presentations, notes, and recordings. To get all the details fast, our Q&A article is here to help. To see the Advisory Team's first approved recommendations, look here. Questions? Contact Michelle Leise.