Victoria MN Newspaper

SHORTER CITY SCOOP FROM JANUARY

CITIZEN SURVEY IN THE MAIL SOON

*Council approved questions for a citizens survey which will be mailed out to 1,200 households in Victoria. Data will be collected by a national research company from February 13th to March 31st. Final results are expected on May 4th. Stated Mayor O'Connor, "By June 1st we should have good direction."

*Council approved a two-month extension of the agreement with the Bavaria Land Company, owner of property adjacent to the new City Hall, which allows city use of the property for staging and equipment storage. The payment is $400/month.

*Council supports the Three Rivers Park District's Master Plan for a regional trail between Carver Park Reserve and Baker Park Reserve to the north. The project could take more than 20 years.

*Corporal Josh Baker, who is with the Carver County Sheriff's Department, reported to Council on January 12th that he is moving from Victoria Town Cop to a county-wide position. "I've worked Victoria every year since 2008 except one," he said. "I'm going to miss working with all of you. I've thoroughly enjoyed my time in Victoria. I appreciate being able to serve the city." New Victoria Town Cop is Liz Gruenhagen.

*The Victoria Fire Department responded to 229 calls in 2014. In 2013 they responded to 246 calls.

*Victoria residents who are interested in learning more about their property's valuation or appealing that valuation are invited to meet with the Carver County Assessor's Office during the week of April 27th to May 1st from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Appointments can be made by calling 952-361-1961. Walk-ins are also welcome.

*City Administrator Laurie Hokkanen reported that 24 people were part of the Focus Group that met in January. The group was put together in advance of the City Council's Strategic Planning Session on January 31st. The group spent time discussing their personal history in Victoria, positive changes they've seen over the last several years, and of ways to enhance the community. Said Laurie, "It was a fabulous discussion. It's a great group. There's positive energy," she reported.

*Council and staff held a Strategic Planning Session in the Council Chambers at the New City Hall on Saturday, January 31st from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. It was open to the public.

*Laurie reported there will be a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at the New Victoria City Hall on Monday evening, February 9th, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., just prior to the regularly scheduled council evening.

*Council asked if the new Public Works facility is totally completed. Replied Ann Mahnke on January 26th, "There are a few odds and ends and miscellaneous things and stragglers left."