Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden Open house on April 3

What:	Birding, Hiking and Garden Tours at Eloise Butler Garden
When:	Saturday, April 3 Noon – 4:00 p.m.
Where:	Eloise Butler Garden 1 Theodore Wirth Parkway
url:	http://www.minneapolisparks.org/default.asp?PageID=52&prid=1174

Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden opens its gates for the season April 1

The Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden and Bird Sanctuary unlocks its gates and officially opens for its 103rd season on Thursday, April 1, just in time for the arrival of the first wildflowers of the season. Visitors are invited to take a walk through the wetland to see the pussy willow in bloom and the very unusual skunk cabbage. They can look along the sides of the woodland trails for early bloomers like the snow trillium and relax on a bench to listen for the first of the spring migratory songbirds heading for their summer nesting grounds up north.

The annual open house will be held Saturday, April 3, from noon-4 p.m. Visitors can talk with staff about the season ahead, browse informational displays, indulge in the warmth of a fire and enjoy a nourishing treat in the Martha Crone Visitors’ Shelter. Garden tours are at 1 and 3 p.m.; pre-registration is suggested.

Minneapolis Park Board removes emerald ash borer-infested trees

url:	http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/news/20100326DiseasedAshRemoved.asp

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) has begun removing 15 ash trees infested with emerald ash borer and 25 suspected infested trees at Tower Hill Park. Tower Hill Park is the first confirmed site of emerald ash borers in Minneapolis. Emerald ash borer is an invasive beetle accidentally introduced from Asia that attacks ash trees. Its larvae tunnel into the wood and feed on the inner bark, ultimately killing the tree. The Minneapolis urban forest includes more than 200,000 ash trees on boulevards and on private property. That’s 21 percent of all Minneapolis trees.

Emerald ash borer has already killed more than 40 million ash trees nationwide and is found in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Kentucky, Ohio, Virginia, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, New York, and Maryland; and Ontario and Quebec, Canada.

If you have space in your yard to plant a tree, now is a good time to start one. If you have an ash tree in your yard, planting its replacement now will give it a chance to start providing shade. Research has proven that trees are a valuable investment and improve urban quality of life. Healthy trees are beautiful, increase property values, help improve air quality, reduce greenhouse gases by absorbing carbon dioxide, save energy, keep the city cooler, provide homes for wildlife and help manage stormwater.

For more information on emerald ash borer or to report an ash tree infested with emerald ash borer, visit www.mda.state.mn.us/eab.

City homebuyer assistance program offers new round of zero-percent forgivable loans

url:	http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/news/20100322HomebuyerAssistanceProg.asp

Applications are now available for the latest round of home-mortgage loans through Minneapolis Advantage. Minneapolis Advantage is a City-funded program that will provide fifty $5,000 loans at zero percent interest, forgivable after five years, to help qualified low- and middle-income buyers purchase homes in eligible neighborhoods in Minneapolis.

The program, now in its third year, has already helped 241 homebuyers purchase homes in the city, helping rebuild neighborhoods impacted by foreclosures and promotes sustainable home ownership and stabilized communities. Every potential homeowner must attend and complete a counseling workshop sponsored by the Minnesota Home Ownership Center that prepares buyers for the important choices related to home ownership.

This year’s program offers $5,000 loans instead of $10,000 in assistance offered in 2008 and 2009. In addition, $90,000 remain, or roughly nine loans, under the 2009 program guidelines for purchasing in the Willard-Hay, Near North, Harrison, or Hawthorne neighborhoods.

2010 Minneapolis Advantage program details

• Purchasers must have an income of less than 120 percent of the area median income ($100,680) and the property must be the purchaser’s primary place of residence.
• Purchasers must receive a traditional (prime or A-rated), fixed-rate first mortgage loan or purchase with cash.
• A loan of $5,000, at zero percent interest; If the purchaser continues to occupy the home as a primary place of residence 1/60 of the loan is forgiven each month so that at the end of five years the loan is completely forgiven.
• The loan can be used to assist with the payment of downpayment and closing costs.
• The property can be a single family dwelling or duplex within an eligible neighborhood. The property must be either in a foreclosed status, or was a foreclosed property that has been purchased by a non-profit for the purpose of selling it to an owner-occupant.
• Or, the property must be on the Minneapolis 249 vacant and boarded buildings list.
• New construction properties are not eligible.

Eligible neighborhoods

Jordan, Folwell, McKinley, Webber-Camden, Hawthorne, Sumner-Glenwood, Shingle Creek, Near North, Willard-Hay, Harrison, Cleveland, Beltrami, Holland, Lind-Bohanon, Bottineau, Central, East Phillips, Phillips West, Midtown Phillips, Bryant, Powderhorn Park, Ventura Village, and Corcoran.

Unless the buyers are purchasing with cash, homebuyers must apply for a Minneapolis Advantage loan through their first mortgage lender. Loans will be given on a first come, first served basis. For more information about the loan program, lenders and homebuyers, call greater Metropolitan Housing Corporation at 612-378-7985.

2009 Minneapolis Advantage program performance

The Minneapolis Advantage program has effectively encouraged people to buy homes in communities stressed by foreclosure. In 2008, 50 loans closed under the demonstration phase. In 2009, $2 million was available. Due to the success of the pilot, the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines awarded $1.5 million to Minneapolis coupled with the City’s assistance of $500,000.

With the assistance of funds available in 2009, more than 35 percent of the buyers moved into Minneapolis were from outside the city and 32 percent are households of color. The average household size is 3.3, indicating larger families have been able to benefit.

NOMI Home Buyers Tour on Sunday, April 11

What:	Annual Get to NOMI Homebuyers Tour
When:	Sunday, April 11 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. &ndash Meet and Greet 12:00 noon to 3:00 p.m. – Open Houses
Where:	Meet and Greet and pick up packets at: 42nd Ave Station 4171 Lyndale Ave N

The next NOMI Home Buyers Tour is right around the corner!! Many of you may be aware of how the NOMI Home Tours operated over the past two years; a high touch, guided tour of 5-7 homes that were on the market in the neighborhoods of NOMI (North Minneapolis) and I might add, aided in the sale of 15+ homes (that we are aware of).

The tours were met with tremendous success and enthusiasm however, we have changed the format for our 2010 tours based on feedback from our tour guests.

Our next tour will take place on Sunday, April, 11th. As always, we will begin with a "Meet & Greet" at a local establishment from 11:00am to 1:00pm - - 42nd Avenue Station, a wonderful new coffee shop in Webber-Camden will play host (4171 Lyndale Ave N) - - this will give prospective home buyers an opportunity to meet current residents of NOMI, get a taste of one of our excellent local establishments, chat with Realtors, members of Neighborhood Organizations and learn about the current financial incentives that are being offered. This will also be the starting point of our tour - a place to pick up a packet listing all homes that will be held open that day. All homes on the tour will then be held Open from 12:00pm - 3:00pm for guests to view at their leisure!

We hope that you are as excited as we are and we look forward to seeing you on April 11th!

Thank you,

Joel Breeggemann
Co-Founder
Get To NOMI
612-481-5635

Organic Lawn Care and Gardening Workshops in April

What:	Organic Lawn Care and Gardening Workshops
When:	April 5 and 12 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. See below for details
Where:	Linden Hills Park Rec Building Warming Room 3100 W 43rd Street
url:	http://www.lindenhills.org/

The Linden Hills Neighborhood Council (LHiNC) Environment Committee is sponsoring two free lawn and garden care workshops in April as part of their Waterkeepers watershed protection initiative. Bob Dahm of Organic Bob, LLC will teach participants how to maintain their lawn and gardens with organic materials that do not damage our watershed.

Spring Organic Lawn Care

Monday, April 5, 7-9pm
Linden Hills Park Rec Building Warming Room.
Come and learn the basics of organic lawn care. Assess your lawn for renovation, replacement, or maintenance. We will discuss what you need to do, and how and when to do it. We will talk about supplies, weed control, watering, and maintenance. You will leave with resources to learn more and a month-by-month schedule for your lawn.

Organic Gardening for Springtime

Monday, April 12, 7-9pm
Linden Hills Park Rec Building Warming Room.
Experience the essentials of organic gardening. Create rich organic garden beds for perennials and veggies. Compost, building soil and how to have lots of great organic produce will be discussed.

There is NO COST to participate in either workshop, but e-mail Sharon Kennedy at lindenhillswater@gmail.com to register or with your questions.

Minneapolis participating in “Earth Hour” to raise awareness of global climate change

What:	Minneapolis to participate in Earth Hour
When:	Saturday, March 27 8:30 to 9:30 p.m.
url:	http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/ news/20100315EarthHour.asp

The Minneapolis City Council approved on Friday, March 12, a resolution to join the “Earth Hour” program for the third year. For one hour, from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 27, the City will turn off all uses of electricity in municipal buildings that are not required for life, safety or operations. The decorative lighting on the underside of the Stone Arch Bridge will be turned off for the night, and City Hall’s clock tower neon lights will be turned off as well.

According to the State of Minnesota, electricity use in the state accounts for 35 percent of greenhouse gas emissions, which contribute to global climate change. Participating individuals, businesses, governments and organizations around the world turn off their lights for one hour – Earth Hour – to make a global statement of concern about climate change and demonstrate their commitment to finding solutions.

In 2010, organizers expect more than 1,000 cities in 100 countries to participate. City leaders encourage businesses and individuals to participate and support the effort to fight climate change.

Earth Hour began in 2007 in Sydney, Australia. During Earth Hour 2009, more than 50 million people in 400 cities on all seven continents turned off their lights. More than 300 U.S. cities joined the Earth Hour movement to symbolize the impact we can have by working together. Learn more, sign up and share your ideas at www.myearthhour.org.

To learn more about sustainable Minneapolis and find out how you can practice a more sustainable life, visit the City’s Web site.

Learn about City boards and commissions during online chat, open house

What:	Join an online chat to learn about City boards and commissions or attend an open house
Chat:	Tuesday, March 23 12:00 noon – 1:00 p.m. http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/boards-and-commissions/chat.asp
Open House:	Thursday, March 25 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. Tri-Tech Building, Room 220 331 2nd Ave S
url:	http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/news/20100317BoardsandCommissionChat.asp

The City of Minneapolis has streamlined its board and commission appointment process, and with many openings coming up, the City is making it easy to learn more about applying.

• Join an online chat:
  An online chat is also scheduled for Tuesday, March 23 from noon to 1 p.m. to answer questions about board and commission openings. To access the online chat visit http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/boards-and-commissions/chat.asp.

• Visit an open house:
  People who want to learn more about these volunteer opportunities are encouraged to attend an open house set for Thursday, March 25 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the Tri-Tech Building, Room 220, 331 2nd Ave. S.

The City of Minneapolis has more than 50 volunteer-based boards, commissions and advisory committees that advise the City on issues and help with policy development and administration of services. Board and commission members provide valuable insights, help shape key policy decisions and provide community-based input into administration of services.

Applications are now being accepted for a number of open positions that the City Council and Mayor will appoint in May. The application deadline for these positions is April 2, 2010. For a full list of appointment opportunities and position descriptions as well as additional information about the open house, visit the City’s boards and commissions Web site.

Previously, appointments were made on an as-needed basis throughout the year. Now, appointments to board and commissions will be made twice a year — in the spring and fall.

The new, streamlined appointment process will make it easier for folks to learn about volunteer opportunities, ensure a more open and understandable process for residents and staff, and increase the diversity of the applicant pool.

Order a low-cost tree for your yard

url:	http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/news/20100317TreeTrustTrees.asp
To order:	Tree Trust http://www.treetrust.org/ (651) 644-5800 or check your local library

More than 1,000 trees are being made available to Minneapolis residents for planting this spring. Since 2006, the City of Minneapolis has funded the City Trees program, a low-cost way for folks to help build the city’s tree canopy. The trees cost $25 each, and are approximately six feet tall with a one-inch trunk. Residents can order one tree per household, and all trees are available first-come, first-served. Last month, emerald ash borer was found in Minneapolis. It poses a special threat to the 200,000 ash trees in Minneapolis, which make up more than 20 percent of the city’s trees. Planting a new tree now will help start the next generation of trees.

Varieties of trees available are Fat Albert spruce, pagoda dogwood, Kentucky coffee tree, blue beech, Merrill magnolia, regal prince oak, Canada select chokecherry, Redmond linden and burgundy belle maple.

Order trees at by visiting the Tree Trust Website, calling (651) 644-5800 or picking up an order form from your local library. In previous years the trees have sold quickly, so place your order early.

Folks who order trees will need to pick them up on one of three days at the Minneapolis Impound Lot, 51 Colfax Ave. N.

• Saturday, May 8
  7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Sunday, May 9
  8 a.m. to noon
• Monday, May 10
  3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Volunteers will be on hand to help load your new tree and complimentary bag of mulch into your vehicle.

Research has proven that trees are a valuable investment and improve urban quality of life. Healthy trees are beautiful, increase property values, help improve air quality, reduce greenhouse gases by absorbing carbon dioxide, save energy, keep the city cooler, provide homes for wildlife and help manage stormwater.

The City Trees program is a partnership between the City of Minneapolis and Tree Trust, a local nonprofit that works to improve the community environment. For more information on how to order a tree, contact Tree Trust at 651-644-5800.

Restorative Justice Info Sessions in May, August and December

What:	Restorative Justice Info Sessions
When:	• Thursday, March 18  6:00 p.m. • Thursday, May 20  6:00 p.m. • Thursday, August 19  6:00 p.m. • Thursday, December 9  6:00 p.m.
Where:	Locations to be determined
information:	Please contact Taryn at (612) 746-0784 trunck@rjca-inc.org
url:	http://www.rjca-inc.org/

Heard of restorative justice, but not sure what it is?

Here’s your chance to find out! Attend a Community Info Session to learn about this opportunity to directly address crimes that occur in your community.

All Info Sessions will start at 6pm. Locations to be determined.

Our community participant gatherings will be held immediately following the info sessions. Stick around to share a meal and meet others doing justice in Minneapolis! We will eat at 7pm and begin our circle around 7:30.

Minneapolis approves $15.4 million for foreclosure stabilization with Recovery funds

url:	http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/news/20100315ForeclosurePlanApproved.asp

The City of Minneapolis will use $15.4 million in federal Neighborhood Stabilization funds for its continuing efforts to stabilize and to rebuild communities heavily affected by mortgage foreclosures. The funds come from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, which awarded about $19.5 million to a consortium that included Minneapolis, Hennepin County and the City of Brooklyn Park. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) approved the Minneapolis consortium’s foreclosure-recovery plan earlier this month.

The City Council and Mayor Rybak approved a spending plan for the funds in mid-March. The $15.4 million plan is focused around purchasing, redeveloping, and rehabilitating foreclosed properties. It is estimated that in the next three years, the funding will provide the financing of 70 homes, rehabilitation of 54 units, acquisition and demolition of 56 blighted properties, and redevelopment of 80 properties.

Spending plan:

• $1.5 million will establish down payment and closing-cost assistance to meet the affordability gap in homeownership opportunities for homebuyers; expand homeownership incentives and promote Minneapolis neighborhoods in preparing the housing market for a rebound.
• $3.5 million will be used for development gap financing to non-profit developers to cover the difference between the cost of purchase and rehab of a foreclosed and/or abandoned single family home or rental property. These units will be primarily rental.
• $2.6 million will be used to acquire foreclosed or abandoned properties that cannot be rehabbed due to cost or condition, demolish them and hold them as vacant parcels and land bank until the market is ready to absorb new development. The City will continue to pursue a partnership with the Twin Cities Community Land Bank to facilitate the acquisition and holding of blighted properties.
• $1 million will be used for demolishing blighted foreclosed or abandoned properties that cannot be rehabbed due to cost or condition acquired in the land banking activity.
• $5.2 million will support the redevelopment of demolished or vacant properties. These units will be primarily for homeownership.
• $1.6 million will cover program administration costs for the City of Minneapolis Departments of Community Planning and Economic Development, Finance and Intergovernmental Relations.

The funds must be spent by 2013, with 50 percent of the funds spent by 2012. All funds must be used for housing individuals or families whose income is at 120 percent of area median income or below. In addition, 25 percent of the funds must be used for housing low-income individuals or families whose income is at or below 50 percent of area median income.

Funding must mitigate the negative effects of at least 100 abandoned or foreclosed homes.

The City of Minneapolis Foreclosure Recovery Plan

In Minneapolis, 3,077 properties were foreclosed in 2008, 2,074 were foreclosed through November 2009, and another 2,500 are projected to be foreclosed in 2010. The City’s focus on prevention, reinvestment, and market repositioning in 2010 and beyond will lead to market recovery in our neighborhoods.

Minneapolis’ strategies for recovering a healthy housing market are: prevention, through continuing foreclosure prevention outreach and counseling; reinvestment, through pursuing aggressive property acquisition and promoting property development; and repositioning, through engaging in community building and market efforts.

Lyndale Neighborhood Association seeks Volunteer and Fundraising Coordinator

url:	http://www.nrp.org/R2/AboutNRP/Jobs/20100316.html

Note: a PDF of this announcement may be viewed at www.lyndale.org

The Lyndale Neighborhood Association (LNA) is an award-winning, nationally recognized community-based organization in South Minneapolis on the cutting edge of community development. LNA is currently seeking an energetic person who is well organized and an excellent communicator to be LNA's Volunteer and Fundraising Coordinator.

This is a new position for the organization. The Volunteer and Fundraising Coordinator will play an important role in supporting LNA's work to create a safe, vibrant, sustainable community. The primary responsibilities for this position are to manage LNA's volunteer program and to work with the Executive Director on implementing all aspects of a comprehensive fundraising program including grant writing, individual giving, business sponsorships, and fundraising events.

This is a full-time, exempt position with benefits that requires some evening and weekend work.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities:

The primary responsibilities for this position are to manage LNA's volunteer program and to implement all aspects of a comprehensive fundraising program including grant writing, individual giving, business sponsorships, and fundraising events. Specific responsibilities for the position include:

Volunteer Coordination - 40% of time

1. Primary staff member responsible for managing LNA's volunteer program, which includes a focused effort on recruiting, retaining, and recognizing LNA's volunteers.
2. Work with LNA staff and volunteers to coordinate volunteer involvement in LNA's programs and activities.

Grant writing - 25% of time

1. Maintain grant calendar to ensure timely submission and reporting of grants.
2. Work with LNA staff to develop grant proposals that support LNA's mission and vision.
3. Develop relationships with current and potential corporate and foundation funders.

Individual and Business Solicitation - 20% of time

1. Develop and implement LNA's individual fundraising plan to increase individual giving to the organization.
2. Work with LNA staff to help plan LNA's Open House and other fundraising events and activities.
3. Manage LNA's business sponsorship program.
4. Develop relationships with current and potential individual and business donors.

Outreach & Communications - 10% of time

1. Will be the primary staff member working with the Lyndale Event and Activity Planners (LEAP), which organizes fun social events to help connect Lyndale Community Members with the rich arts and cultural activities in Minneapolis.
2. Help prepare LNA's communication materials.

Other - 5% of time

• Other duties as assigned by the Executive Director

Qualifications:

General Qualifications:
A competitive candidate will have:

• Minimum of one to three years of fundraising and/or volunteer management experience
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• A Bachelors degree in a related field
• Excellent personal organizational skills
• Working knowledge of computers, ability to run word processing, desktop publishing, email and database programs
• Have volunteer or work experience with community/neighborhood-based organizations
• Experience working with diverse populations
• Ability to work flexible hours, including some evening and weekend hours
• A passion and love for building a healthy community
• Ability to lift 25 pounds

Compensation:
Compensation for this position will be $33,000 to $38,000 a year

Application review will begin on April 20th.

Volunteer and Fundraising Coordinator
Lyndale Neighborhood Association
3537 Nicollet Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55408
Or email to mark@lyndale.org

For additional information, contact Mark Hinds at 612.824.9402 x 16, or mark@lyndale.org
LNA is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Public Hearing on 2010 Consolidated Plan on Tuesday, March 23

Purpose:	To receive comments on the City's Proposed 2010 Consolidated lan for CDBG, HOME, ESG, and HOPWA federal entitlement funding.
When:	Tuesday, March 23, 2010 1:30 p.m.
Where:	City Council Chambers before the Community Development Committee 350 S 5th St

You are invited to comment on Minneapolis' proposed FY 2010 Consolidated Plan. The 2010 Consolidated Plan covers the City's application for Community Development Block Grants (CDBG), HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME), Emergency Shelter Grant Program (ESG), and the House Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) federal entitlement funding. This Consolidated Plan includes a new Consolidated Plan Fiver Year Strategy 2010-14.

The Consolidated Plan is an application to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) articulating the City's housing and community development strategies for residents at or below 80 percent of the metropolitan median income level.

On April 15, 2010, the City will submit its 2010 Consolidated Plan to HUD. It will include a 2010 budget for the HUD entitlement funds that the City will be receiving in June 2010.

We invite your participation by speaking at the hearing, and submitting written comments before, during, or after the hearing. To have your name placed on the Public Hearing Speakers List, call (612) 673-2219. Please indicate if you will require any accessibility assistance or interpreter/translation services.

East Isles Residents' Association (EIRA) Seeks NRP Consultant

What:	The East Isles Residents' Association, the governing board of the East Isles neighborhood in Minneapolis, is in search of a contract consultant who will work with the Association to plan and implement programming for the NRP Phase II for EIRA.
When:	Application should be received by April 15, 2010 see below.

Contractual Duties:

Participation agreement

• Organize the election of NRP Steering Committee according to the EIRA Participation Agreement approved by the EIRA Board 2-9-2010 and the NRP Policy Board
• Assist the Committee in developing its responsibilities and the Phase II action plan
• Develop the NRP budget and accounting procedures for Phase II funds

Phase II Plan

• Draft the plan to be approved by the Steering Committee and the EIRA Board
• Develop and implement the outreach plan, including but not limited to publicity, recruitment of volunteers, surveys, neighborhood involvement and meetings, etc.
• Develop a process for developing and deciding on priorities
• Write the Phase II Plan
• Ensure processes are in place to carry out plan
• Submit completed plan to city of Minneapolis

Supervision of Consultant

• The consultant will work directly with the NRP Steering Committee and be supervised by its chairperson, with consultation and approval as appropriate by the EIRA Board.

Job Requirements

• Knowledge of NRP and the EIRA neighborhood
• Experience in writing plans and proposals
• Experience working with neighborhood groups and volunteers
• Experience working with budgets, surveys, and publicity

Compensation
The contractor will be expected to work 10 hours/week and will be paid on an hourly basis commensurate with experience, between $15.00 and $18.00/hour. There are no benefits attached to the appointment. Contractor will be expected to have their own workspace and computer.

To Apply:
Application should be received by April 15, 2010. Submit a cover letter, resume, and names of 3 references to:

Nancy Johnston, President
EIRA
2751 Hennepin Ave, S, Box 294
Minneapolis, MN 55408

Minneapolis Preservation Awards on May 20: Call for Nominations

What:	2010 Minneapolis Heritage Preservation Awards ceremony and luncheon Call for Nominations
When:	Thursday, May 20 11:30 – 1:30 p.m.
Where:	International Market Square 275 Market Street, Minneapolis
Nominations:	Nominations are due to Minneapolis CPED by Friday, April 30, 2010 Nominations Packet
url:	http://www.mnpreservation.org/2010/03/15/minneapolis-preservation-award-nominations-now-accepted/

The 2010 Minneapolis Heritage Preservation Awards ceremony and luncheon will be held at International Market Square on Thursday, May 20th, from 11:30 -1:30 p.m. Please save the date so that you can join us. The Awards program is co-sponsored by the Minneapolis Heritage Preservation Commission, the Minneapolis Chapter of the American Institute of Architects, and Preserve Minneapolis. Tickets can be purchased by calling AIA-Minneapolis at (612) 338-6763. Everyone is welcome!

Applications are now being accepting for the 2010 awards. The attached packet contains the nomination form and instructions. Please let the Minneapolis HPC know what projects, activities, and people you feel deserve special recognition for their recent contributions to preservation in Minneapolis.

Nominations are due to Minneapolis CPED by Friday, April 30, 2010.

Working Group Tour for the Southern Bike Connection on March 21

What:	Public Works will host a working group tour (pdf) for bicyclists, to discuss and experience the proposed Southern Bike Connection. Feedback from the tour will inform a draft plan to be presented at a public meeting later this spring. View a map of the Southern Bike Connection (pdf) to learn where this project will take place.
When:	Sunday, March 21st 1:00 p.m.
Where:	Meet at the 18th Avenue S Bridge over the Midtown Greenway
Flyer:	http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/bicycles/SBCWorkingGroupTour.pdf
url:	http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/bicycles/SouthernBikeConnection.asp
Info:	www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/bicycles/boulevards.asp
contact:	Shaun Murphy Minneapolis Public Works 612-333-2450 shaun.murphy@ci.minneapolis.mn.us

You are invited to a working group tour to discuss and experience the proposed Southern Bike Connection.

The working group tour will take place on bicycles. Feedback will inform a draft plan to be presented at a public meeting later this spring. Bring a bicycle and your ideas for improving bicycling.

The project runs along multiple streets. It is (generally) a north-south corridor between 24th Street and Highway 62, near and along Bloomington Avenue. Portions of the project will likely include bike lanes on busier streets. A bicycle boulevard option is being explored on 17th & 18th Avenue S. A bicycle boulevard includes items such as:

• Traffic calming
• Improvements to busy crossings
• Minimized stopping for bicycles

Questions or feedback are welcome.

Bike Lane Public Meeting on March 17

What:	Public Works will host a public meeting to present the draft proposal of bike lanes on 1st and Blaisdell Avenue S, between 15th and 40th Streets.
When:	March 17 6:30 p.m.
Where:	Lyndale Neighborhood Building 3537 Nicollet Ave
Info:	For more details about the proposed layout, view the draft proposal (pdf). As part of this project, note that parking changes are being explored on 1st Avenue between 33rd and 40th Streets.
Flyer:	http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/bicycles/1stBlaisdellPublicMeetingFlyer.pdf
url:	www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/bicycles

You are invited to a public meeting to discuss the addition of bike lanes on 1st Avenue S and Blaisdell Avenue through a restriping project. The proposed project would also change parking on portions of 1st Avenue S.

Minneapolis Public Works is exploring these parking changes for 1st Avenue S:

• Adding 24/7 parking, 33rd to 38th Streets, east side only
• Reducing to Saturday/Sunday parking, 38th to 40th Streets, west side only
• Adding 24/7 parking, 38th to 40th Streets, east side only

There are no proposed changes to parking along Blaisdell Avenue.

Bike lanes would be added on 1st & Blaisdell Avenues between 15th and 40th Street. Public Works staff is collecting information about the potential impact of these proposed bike lanes and the above parking changes.

If you cannot attend the public meeting, you can share your thoughts on the project with Shaun Murphy, Minneapolis Public Works, 350 S 5th Street, Room 233, Minneapolis, 55415, 612-333-2450, shaun.murphy@ci.minneapolis.mn.us.

Harrison Pancake Breakfast on April 11

What:	The Harrison Neighborhood Association is holding a Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser to support work in the Harrison neighborhood.
When:	Sunday, April 11 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Where:	Milda’s Café 1720 Glenwood Ave N

Bring the Whole Family, neighbors and your friends!

Everyone is Welcome!

This is a great way to support your community and get a great breakfast!

Details
Adults:	$6.00
10 years & under:	$3.00
What you get!
Pancakes:	All you can eat
Coffee:	All you can drink
Sausage:	1 serving
Milk:	1 serving

What you can do!

1. Help volunteer: Call 374-4849 if you want help at the Pancake Breakfast
2. Show-up and Eat Pancakes

Bring your family, neighbors, and friends!

Call the Harrison Neighborhood Association at 612-374-4849.

Larry Hiscock
Director/Lead Organizer
612-374-4849

Arts of the Community Grand Opening on March 19

What:	Arts exhibition showcasing the work of south Minneapolis community artists
When:	Friday, March 19 7:00 p.m.
Where:	Intermedia Arts 2822 Lyndale Ave S
url:	http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/news/20100309SMARTS.asp

An arts exhibition showcasing the work of south Minneapolis community artists will soon open at Intermedia Arts on Friday, March 19. The exhibition, running March 19 – April 16, is sponsored and curated by the South Minneapolis Arts Business Association (SMARTS), a news association of artists and arts related businesses that promotes and supports arts in south Minneapolis.

THE ARTS OF THE COMMUNITY
March 19- April 16, 2010
Intermedia Arts
2822 Lyndale Ave S.

Grand opening and an artist reception will take place at 7 p.m. on March 19. The program will feature south Minneapolis literary and spoken word artists.

The exhibition will also serve as the launch of the SMARTS guide which is a map of visual and performing art destinations, artists, education and art service businesses in south Minneapolis. The SMARTS GUIDE will lead visitors to arts businesses and destination points in south Minneapolis.

The City of Minneapolis works to strengthen local business organizations and help stabilize commercial areas so that they contribute to the economic growth of their members and assist the city in attainment of its economic development objectives. More information about the event is available at the SMARTS web site. You may also call or email (612) 871-4444 or info@IntermediaArts.org with questions.

Artists: learn more about a new housing design competition

url:	http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/news/20100310HsgDesignCompetition.asp

A housing design competition that focuses on North Minneapolis communities affected by foreclosure will help revitalize the neighborhood and attract artists to the community. ‘Bearden Place: A Housing Competition in the Artists’ Core,’ is sponsored by the City of Minneapolis, the Builders Association of the Twin Cities (BATC), and its Builders Outreach Foundation (BOF) as part of the strategy and commitment to rebuilding the Willard Homewood neighborhood affected by foreclosure.

The property in the Willard Homewood neighborhood is rich in architectural tradition, but heavily impacted by foreclosure. The competition is to design six, live/work units for the site, located at the northwest corner of Plymouth and Sheridan avenues North. In the past two years, significant resident commitment has focused efforts on revitalizing this neighborhood with a marketing campaign targeted to bringing artists into the community. The housing design competition reinforces those efforts for continued rebuilding.

The sponsors are calling for innovative and creative ideas that address issues and challenges of designing high quality, affordable/entry-level home ownership; spatial flexibility and live/work space; sustainable building practices and materials; design for a range of lifestyle choices and family configurations. Market rate units will not exceed $175,000, and the development needs to meet MN GreenStar Bronze Certification for new construction.

The competition is meant to harness the skills, energy and ideas of the design community in this rebuilding effort. Participating architects and designers are encouraged to engage landscape architects, artists, social scientists, and other creative disciplines on their teams.

BATC/BOF will serve as the developer and will manage the entire construction process. BATC members will work with the selected design team to provide construction and cost management of the winning scheme, resulting in a built housing project that demonstrates a successful method of collaboration that can be modeled for other development opportunities on City-owned properties of various scales.

For more information on the design competition visit the City of Minneapolis’s foreclosure site, or contact Katie White at katherine.white@ci.minneapolis.mn.us; (612) 673-5238. Site visits are scheduled for March 17 and 29 at noon. A public exhibit of design entries is scheduled for June 2010.

Submissions are due Wednesday, April 21, by 5 p.m. and should be mailed to:

‘Bearden Place Housing Design,’
Attn: Katie White
Minneapolis Department of Community Planning & Economic Development
105 Fifth Avenue South, Suite 200,
Minneapolis, MN 55401.

Art Squared on March 13

What:	An art sale and fundraiser to benefit Cinema and Civics, Red Hot Art, and other public arts programming in the Stevens Square-Loring Heights neighborhood.
When:	March 13 7:00 &ndash' 10:00 p.m
Where:	Tillie's Bean 1931 Nicollet Ave
Tickets:	Tickets $8/door or $5/advance at Tillie’s Bean

Mark your calendars: The Art Squared fundraiser for SSCO will be held on Saturday, March 13th from 7-10pm at Tillie’s Bean, 1931 Nicollet Ave. The event will feature local art for sale and raffle, live art, live music, wine and beer and light appetizers.

• Local art for sale and raffle
• Live music by Tortuga and Georgia Leigh
• Art-on-demand by Matt Wells
• Live painting by Andrea Tedford and by members of the Rogue Citizen art collective
• Hipness
• Squareness
• Food, coffee, and drinks

Tickets will be on sale soon at Tillie’s Bean for the pre-sale price of $5. At the door, they will cost $8. Buy early and buy for your friends!

Winter Parking Restrictions end in Minneapolis

url:	Winter Parking Restrictions end in Minneapolis

The City of Minneapolis has lifted the Winter Parking Restrictions that were put in place last month. The restrictions went into effect on Feb. 11 after snow accumulations narrowed many streets, making it difficult for fire trucks, ambulances, and other emergency vehicles to navigate in some neighborhoods. Limiting parking to one side of many city streets created more reliable access for emergency responses.

Our recent mild temperatures and sunnier days have melted snow along city streets, widening them far enough that the Fire Chief, Public Works officials, and other public safety officials have determined the restrictions can be lifted. With this melting, we are now seeing normal winter conditions on most city streets.

Beginning March 5, normal parking rules again apply on city streets, and drivers should continue to follow all posted signs. Signs restricting parking to one side of the street were posted along stretches of Bryant Avenue (from Lake to 50th streets) and Grand Avenue (from Lake to 48th streets), and those restrictions will remain in place until April 1st to allow transit access on those streets.

The public’s cooperation in following the restrictions greatly aided emergency responders in their work to serve folks in Minneapolis. During the time the parking restrictions were in place, Minneapolis Fire crews made more than 1,800 runs for emergency medical calls and fires— and crews were able gain better access on those runs because of the parking restrictions.

Although the Winter Parking Restrictions have been lifted, it is still possible to have additional Snow Emergencies this year. Drivers should be mindful of the normal Snow Emergency rules and procedures and check the City’s 348-SNOW hotline, the Web, or the many other Snow Emergency notification tools if we receive more snowfall.

Kingfield Farmers Market seeks Market Coordinator

url:	http://www.nrp.org/R2/AboutNRP/Jobs/20100301.html
Position:	2010 Kingfield Farmers Market Coordinator
Position Type:	Seasonal/Part-time April through October
Compensation:	Based on skills and experience
Reports to:	Kingfield Farmers Market Board Chair
Application Requirements:	Letter of Interest and Resume
Due:	Applications accepted until position is filled
To:	info@kingfieldfarmersmarket.org
Mission:	The mission of the Kingfield Farmers Market is to bring neighbors together to buy, eat and learn about local food. The Kingfield Market supports local farmers, promote vibrant community and effects important changes in food and agricultural policy at a regional, state and national levels.
Overview:	The Kingfield Farmers Market Coordinator oversees the day-to-day operations of the Kingfield Farmers Market in order to serve its vendors, guests, patrons and volunteers. Markets are held every Sunday from 8:30am-1:00pm from May 23 through October 31.
Essential Functions:	Manage and assist in market set-up and tear down including weekly site planning. Provide on site support to all vendors, patrons, musicians, artists, master gardener volunteers, and other community activity providers for each market. Ensure market regulations and state and local health codes are followed. Manage the collection of vending fees. Maintain an accurate and up to date vendor list, market schedule, and event schedule throughout the market season. Oversee and assist with implementation of special and weekly events including but not limited to bakeoffs, music and family friendly activities. Manage market booth including: donation collection and merchandise sales. Provide on site supervision to volunteers and assistants. Attend Kingfield Farmers Market Board of Directors meetings and sub-committee meetings as deemed appropriate. Manage and procure market supplies as needed. Maintain social networking site for market. Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:	Required Flexible schedule must include each Sunday during the market season. Strong problem solving ability. Must be able to routinely lift up to 50lbs. Ability to accomplish tasks with limited direct supervision. Must be highly organized, self-directed and creative. Excellent intrapersonal and communication skills. Preferred Background in food, agriculture, community building and/or organizing. Experience in working with volunteers.

3rd Lowry Avenue Strategic Plan Community Meeting on March 25

What:	3rd and final community meeting on Lowry Avenue Strategic Plan
When:	Thursday, March 25 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Where:	North Regional Library 1315 Lowry Ave N
url:	http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/cped/lowry_strategic_plan.asp

February 19, 2010 (MINNEAPOLIS)—The City of Minneapolis and Lowry area neighborhood organizations are hosting the third and final community meeting related to the Lowry Avenue Strategic Plan on Thursday, March 25, 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the North Regional Library, 1315 Lowry Avenue North, Minneapolis.

The community is invited to:

• Review maps guiding future development

• Review and discuss proposed strategies for attracting new development and addressing the challenges related to revitalizing Lowry Avenue’s neighborhood retail areas.

The plan is an update to the 2002 Lowry Avenue Corridor Plan. Its purpose is to sharpen the long-range vision for Lowry Avenue and to create a strategy for fostering change. It will lay the groundwork for ongoing improvement efforts led by multiple parties, including the neighborhood organizations, Lowry Avenue businesses, and developers.

“We want to see the Lowry Avenue Plan put into action, to build on the investment made by Hennepin County”, said Minneapolis City Council President Barbara A. Johnson.

The reconstruction of Lowry Avenue, funded by Hennepin County, followed approval of the 2002 plan and is now complete from the Mississippi river to Victory Memorial Drive. The recently constructed Aldi development at the Penn and Lowry intersection, and a groundbreaking for the EcoVillage development at Lyndale and Lowry already held this year are setting a standard for new development. With the economy beginning to emerge from the recession, other opportunities for new development are being identified.

After soliciting community feedback at the March 25 meeting, the plan will be finalized and submitted to the City Council for adoption.

More information can be found at
http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/cped/lowry_strategic_plan.asp

City seeks applicants for director of Civil Rights

Deadline:	March 12, 2010
url:	City seeks applicants for Director of Civil Rights

The City of Minneapolis is seeking qualified applicants for the appointed position of Director, Civil Rights. This position provides leadership, direction, and oversight for the City department that receives and investigates discrimination complaints city-wide. This Director also monitors city and independent board contractors’ affirmative action plans and programs, administers administrative hearings in discrimination cases and through the Civilian Review Authority investigates and adjudicates citizen complaints of misconduct.

This position is appointed by the Mayor, approved by the City Council and works in concert with the Civilian Review Authority, Commission on Civil Rights and all City departments. Direct reports to the Director position include the Director of Outreach and Enforcement, the Civilian Review Authority and Complaints Investigation Coordinator. The complete job description linked below details the primary roles and other relevant information for the position.

Director, Civil Rights Department (PDF)

Applications will be accepted March 1, 2010 through March 12, 2010. To apply, please send your resume and cover letter to Kendall Mines at kendallm@keystonesearch.com. The City of Minneapolis is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer.

Applicants sought for new City Audit Committee

Deadline:	Applications are due by March 12
url:	Applicants sought for new City Audit Committee

Applications are now being taken from members of the public interested in being members of the City’s new Audit Committee which was created in December 2009. There are two vacancies available for terms running through January of 2013. One vacancy is a Mayoral appointment, and the other will be appointed by the City Council. Applications are due by March 12, 2010.

The Audit Committee is responsible for the oversight of the City’s internal audit function, financial reporting practices, internal controls, compliance with applicable law, and regulation relating to financial controls and other related matters. The commission will meet a minimum of four times a year, and there is no compensation for committee members.

The Committee is responsible for appointing and removing the Internal Auditor, reviewing and approving the Internal Auditor’s annual audit plan, reviewing audit reports, and making recommendations to the City council on the appropriate course of action on any such audit reports. It also charged with monitoring the Internal Auditor’s results and follow-up activity, and reviewing reports of the State Auditor prepared for any of the city’s departments, boards and commissions.

In recent weeks, the City has streamlined the process for appointments to volunteer boards and commissions. Applicants must be residents of the city who are not past or current city employees, are not past or current elected officials of the city Council or any of its boards or commissions, and who have expertise in auditing, preferably internal or management auditing, or financial management.

Applications are available by visiting the City’s Board’s and Commissions Openings site or by contacting the Office of the City Clerk at cityclerk@ci.minneapolis.mn.us or by calling (612)673-3358. Folks can apply on their own behalf, nominate others for consideration, or inform the City Clerk of people to whom they wish application materials be sent. Applications must be received or postmarked by Friday, March 12, 2010.

Applications are forwarded from the City Clerk to the Mayor and City Council for their consideration. A public hearing is required for selected applicants.

16th Annual South Minneapolis Housing & Home Improvement Fair on March 6

What:	The 16th annual South Minneapolis Housing & Home Improvement Fair
When:	March 6, 2010 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Where:	South High School 3131 19th Ave S, Minneapolis
url:	2010 South Minneapolis Housing & Home Improvement Fair
Contact:	Laura Mullen laura@housingfair.org

The South Minneapolis Housing and Home Improvement Fair is one of the most successful and well-attended community events in the South Minneapolis area.

Always Free and open to the public, the annual Fair promotes city living, home improvement & maintenance, and community involvement. The Fair's hallmark is its industry exhibits and educational workshops.

The 2010 Fair will feature nearly 100 reputable and local contractors, retailers, Real Estate agents, lenders, and community organizations. In addition, attendees will have access to representatives from energy, affordable housing, green homes and the neighborhood associations to answer questions.

Industry professionals will offer a variety of how-to, home repair, and design-based workshops and seminars. The 2010 lineup includes Home Electrical Wiring Systems, Plumbing Repair Basics for the Home, Distressed Homes for Sale, and 10 Ways to Save Energy…and Change Other Stuff, Too!, plus many others to be announced. Most of the workshops are hands-on, and all are free.

The popular ‘Ask the Expert’ area will be back again this year. Experts such as master gardeners, waste & recycling staff from the City and home accessibility specialists will answer your specific questions.

As always, the Fair remains a family event. Kids will enjoy a special workshop where they can build their own wooden bird feeder to take home.

Enter to win a personal tool kit! This year, the Fair will give away over $2,000 in door prizes.

Food and beverage for purchase will be available, including pizza slices from the wonderful Pizza Lucé.

For more information on the Fair, please contact the Fair's Coordinator, Laura Mullen at laura@housingfair.org

Spring Wing Ding on April 24

What:	The Spring WingDing is an annual celebration of nature in the city hosted by the Audubon Park neighborhood. The event is held on a Saturday near the birthday of our namesake, John J. Audubon.
When:	Saturday, April 24 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Where:	Audubon Park 29th Ave NE and NE Buchanan St
url:	http://www.SpringWingDing.org

ANA invites you to its annual community festival honoring our urban ecology. Join us for food, fun, games, and to meet like-minded folks who cherish the environment we share. The event is held on a Saturday near the birthday of our namesake, John J. Audubon. In 2010, we’ll celebrate on Saturday, April 24th, 11am–2pm, at Audubon Park, 29th Ave. and Buchanan St. NE.

We'll celebrate come rain or shine- Weather is part of nature! Join us at the Spring WingDing in Audubon Park on 29th Avenue NE at Buchanan Street. Watch our website for more details!

Uptown Market Fundraiser on March 3

When:	Wednesday, March 3rd 2010 5:30pm – 7:30pm
Where:	moto-i, first floor 2940 Lyndale Ave S
url:	http://www.uptownmarket.org/

Hello Friends,

Please come out to support the Uptown Market! On Wednesday, March 3rd, we will be having a fundraiser at moto-i, on Lyndale Ave, from 5:30pm to 7:30pm. We are working on becoming a weekly event for the summer of 2010, but we need your help. Bring your friends, meet some new friends, enjoy some happy hour specials, all while helping make your favorite Uptown arts and produce market weekly!

We will be on the first floor of moto-i and they will be extending the happy hour deals to our group: $5 Sake / $3 wine / $3 beer until 7:30pm.

Suggested donation: $10 or give what you can.

If you are unable to join us on Wednesday, please consider donating online: http://uptownmarket.org/donate.php

Current openings on City boards and commissions

Neighborhood leaders,

This email is intended to announce a streamlined approach for appointments to the many resident-based boards and commissions and, secondly, inform you of the various openings available currently. See below for more details.

In the past you have likely received various emails letting you know about openings for City boards or commissions; each opening announced individually leading to even more emails. We have heard from neighborhood organizations this incremental communication can be confusing and time consuming. The City now has a new, streamlined process for appointing individuals to serve on volunteer boards and commissions.

Appointments to City boards and commissions will now be made two times per year through formal City Council and Mayoral processes. One of the notable advantages in this streamlined process is the ability to communicate about many openings at one time giving community members a better understanding of the options available to them.

Current openings
On the City of Minneapolis Web site at http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/boards-and-commissions/open/index.asp you will find a list of vacancy notices. As we transition boards to this new twice yearly process the closing dates for applications may vary. Please be sure to note the closing dates for a particular position. Many of these close dates are April 2nd, 2010 however some have a more immediate closing.

Additional resources
Here are some resources to help your neighborhood organization and residents become more informed about the new streamlined appointment process for resident-based city boards and commissions.

• Sign up to receive notices directly
  As one way to help target our message in the future we have added an email subscription list for City board and commission vacancies. I encourage you to sign up to receive notices which will include those open during the regular two cycles and any interim vacancies. Additionally, please consider adding this link to any newsletter or Web site articles you might publish.

  Sign up to receive e-mail updates on City Boards and Commissions

  If the above link does not work please visit http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/boards-and-commissions/open/index.asp

• Newsletter article
  Attached is a draft of an article your organization could include in their newsletter or on their Web site. We would be most appreciative if you would consider helping to get the word out about this change but more importantly about the currently openings. This is article is provided for your convenience but is certainly an optional piece.


• Open house & live “chat” coming in March
  As part of this updated process an open house is being planned to happen in March. Currently the plans include an open house for folks to attend in person as well as a “virtual” open house or a live chat session where interested community members can ask questions about the boards or commissions for which they are interested.

Please check out the current openings and pass along the information.

Regards,

Jennifer Lastoka
Community Engagement Coordinator
Neighborhood and Community Relations Department
City of Minneapolis
Tri Tech Center, Room 220
331 2nd Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55401
Office: 612.673.3163
Cell: 612.240.9241
www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/ncr