citizen - City of Altoona

THE

CITIZEN VOLUME 4 - APRIL 2017

Letter from the Mayor What a year it has been for Altoona. We continued to see our great city grow over this last year. Notably, the City of Altoona remained one of the fastest growing cities in Wisconsin. Over the course of 2016, Altoona welcomed a new elementary school, many great festivals, and several new businesses. We have a lot of positive momentum as we forge ahead. I have proudly served as your mayor for this last year. In the upcoming year, amongst my other mayoral priorities, I look forward to witnessing the growth of River Prairie. River Prairie is currently home to a number of businesses with several more planning to open in the upcoming months. Businesses currently operating are Woodman’s, Kwik Trip, Midwest Dental, Great Clips, Pearle Vision, Bernicke Wealth Management, and Staybridge Suites. The area will soon be home to Cowboy Jacks, Za 51, Massage Envy, Edward Jones, Century 21, and Westconsin Credit Union. There are also plans to include residential units in the development, with the 53 unit Prairie Place Apartments currently being constructed.

River Prairie Park is scheduled to open this fall as, perhaps, the most unique and exciting park in the Chippewa Valley. Located along the banks of the Eau Claire River, the park highlights the site’s natural attributes as a primary draw to visitors and residents and offers something for everyone. Canoe and kayak enthusiasts will enjoy easy access to the Eau Claire River, while children will enjoy the natural playground area and splash pad. The entire park will be tied together by a meandering stream, constructed to encourage play and interaction. Rent a pavilion for a party or family gathering or cozy up next to the fire pit while enjoying food from a local food truck. Visitors may also patronize one of the many businesses and restaurants at the park’s periphery via an extensive trail system. Those interested in arts and entertainment may attend a community festival in the park’s Great Plaza or a concert at one of the park’s many music venues. Also located along the banks of the Eau Claire River is the River Prairie Trail which provides for a scenic recreational experience. The Prairie Event Center will open this summer located adjacent to River Prairie Park, the Event Center will host a variety of community events, from running races, to car shows to concerts to food festivals; the possibilities are only limited by one’s imagination! Private parties may also rent the Event Center for weddings, company parties, corporate trainings, anniversary parties, birthdays, banquets or reunions. There will be room for 250 seated guests and the Event Center will feature a full bar serving both the inside of the building and Event Center’s large outdoor patio. The Event Center will have a full service catering kitchen as well as three outside wedding venues. I hope you share in the excitement that I hold for River Prairie. I invite you to come see the growth for yourself! -Mayor Brendan Pratt

City of Altoona | 1303 Lynn Avenue | Altoona | WI | 54720 | 715-839-6092 | [email protected] | www.ci.altoona.wi.us

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The Altoona Citizen

Sign Up for Direct Utility Bill Payment

Get your 2017 Dog License

Altoona utility customers may authorize regularly scheduled utility payments to be made from your checking or savings account. Your payments will be made automatically on the specified Due Date on your quarterly bill. The authority you give to charge your account will remain in effect until you notify us in writing to terminate the authorization.

• • • •

To sign up for direct pay, please fill out the application below, attach a voided check or savings deposit slip, and return it to City Hall at 1303 Lynn Avenue, Altoona, WI 54720. It’s that easy. No Fee – Direct Payment Authorization I authorize the City of Altoona to initiate electronic debit entries to my account. I acknowledge that the origination of ACH transactions to my account must comply with the provision of U.S. law. This authority will remain in effect until I have cancelled it in writing. Date:________________________________________________________________________________ Name (please print):_______________________________________________________________ Service Address: ___________________________________________________________________ Utility Account #: __________________________________________________________________ Financial Institution’s Name: _____________________________________________________ Financial Institution’s City and State: ____________________________________________ 9-Digit Routing Number: __________________________________________________________ Account Type: _____ Checking or _____ Savings Checking/Savings Account Number: _____________________________________________ Account Holder’s Signature: ______________________________________________________ Additional Signature (optional for Joint Bank Account):_______________________________ ***** ATTACH A VOIDED CHECK OR SAVINGS DEPOSIT SLIP ***** Mail to: Altoona Water Utility, 1303 Lynn Avenue, Altoona, WI 54720

State law mandates that your dog(s) be licensed (see WI Statute 174). The City of Altoona limits the number of pets at a household or business to 2 dogs and 3 cats (see Altoona Municipal Code, Chapter 6.08). Owners of unlicensed dogs are subject to a $169 fine plus court costs. If you are a dog owner, please complete the form below, include current rabies certificate and payment, and mail to: Altoona City Hall, Attn: Dog License, 1303 Lynn Avenue, Altoona, WI 54720. Your pet’s rabies certificate and dog license will be mailed to you. 2017 DOG LICENSE APPLICATION

Owner Information Owner’s Name:

E-mail:

Dog #1

Dog #2

Dog’s Name

Address: Telephone:

Pet Information Breed

Altoona, WI 54720

Return this application along with the following items: 3 Payment made payable to: City of Altoona 3 Current rabies vaccination certificate 3 Proof of spaying/neutering To: City of Altoona Dog License 1303 Lynn Ave Altoona, WI 54720

Color Sex

M

Spayed/Neutered? Yes

F

M

F

No

Yes

No

CALCULATE FEES # of Dogs

Total x $10 = $ x $10 = $ x $20 = $ x $20 = $ Total Due = $ If you are paying after 3/31/2017, add late fee(s) $5 per dog x $5 = $ Total Due = $ Neutered Male Spayed Female Male Female

State law mandates that all dogs be licensed (see WI Statute 174). Owners of unlicensed dogs are subject to a $169 fine plus court cost (Altoona Municipal Code 6.08.010).

Water Utility PUBLIC AWARENESS: CROSS CONNECTION Bathrooms & Kitchens In 2010, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources amended the mandated Cross Connection Control Program requirements, limiting the inspection of residential properties to the area around the water meter, which is typically in the basement. In not requiring an inspection of every tap or end-use device in the home, the inspection is less intrusive on the homeowner. In lieu of a more thorough inspection, the Water Utility must provide educational materials to property owners a minimum of every three years regarding safeguarding their homes from cross-connections. The information presented as follows on Bathrooms and Kitchens provides details on proper backflow prevention in these areas of your home. WHAT IS A CROSS CONNECTION? A cross connection is an actual or potential connection between the safe drinking water (potable) supply and source of contamination or pollution. State plumbing codes require approved backflow prevention devices, assemblies, or the methods to be installed at every point of potable water connection and use. Cross Connections must be properly protected or eliminated. HOW DOES CONTAMINATION OCCUR? When you turn on a faucet, you expect the water to be as safe as when it left the water reservoir. However, certain hydraulic conditions left unprotected within your plumbing system may allow hazardous substances to enter and contaminate the drinking water in your home, or even the public water supply.

Water normally flows in one direction to your faucet; however, under certain conditions, water can actually flow backwards (i.e. Backflow). There are two situations that can cause backflow: backsiphonage and backpressure. Backsiphonage: May occur due to a loss of pressure in the municipal water supply, such as from a water main break, creating a siphon in your plumbing system which can draw water back into the system. Backpressure: May occur when a source of pressure (such as a boiler) creates a greater pressure than the incoming water pressure. This may cause contaminated water to be pushed into your plumbing system through an unprotected crossconnection. (Continued on Page 3)


The Altoona Citizen (Cross Connection continued from Page 2) DID YOU KNOW... Your water can become contaminated if connections to your plumbing system are not properly protected? The purpose of the local Cross Connection Program, as required by State Plumbing Code and Regulations, is to ensure everyone in the community has safe, clean drinking water. IT’S PUBLIC SAFETY To avoid contamination, backflow preventers are required by state plumbing codes wherever there is an actual or potential hazard for a cross connection. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources requires all public water suppliers to maintain an on-going Cross Connection Control Program involving public education, onsite inspections, and possible corrective actions by building owners.

WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU? The Cross Connection and Backflow Prevention Program is necessary for the protection of the water that you, other City of Altoona residents, and businesses use and consume. By working together, we can make our water supply safer by installing, or having installed, simple devices that will prevent impurities from entering our drinking water. ACTIONS YOU CAN TAKE PRIOR TO YOUR INSPECTION: • Read and understand this brochure • Review each of the diagrams and review your bathroom and kitchen set-up to ensure you are protected. • Call a plumber with questions on back flow prevention for boiler or plumbing fixtures and appliances. • Inspect hose connections on your house for proper back flow prevention. (ex.outside hose faucet and utility sinks)

Over half of the nation’s cross connections are from unprotected garden hoses!

THE LAW Pursuant to the Safe Drinking Water Act of 1974, the DNR, under NR 810.15, requires every municipal water supplier to develop and implement a comprehensive crossconnection control program for the elimination of all existing cross-connections as well as the prevention of future cross-connections.

WHAT WILL BE REQUIRED? The Altoona Water Utility’s Cross Connection Control (CCC) Program is designed to safeguard public health. Inspections for residential properties began in the fall of 2012.

GENERAL NEWS Altoona City Council Passes Food Truck Ordinance In September 2016, City Council passed an ordinance which allows food trucks to vend in Altoona. According to the National League of Cities, in its 2013 report titled Food on Wheels: Mobile Vending Goes Mainstream, “Mobile food vending generates approximately $650 million in revenue annually. The industry is projected to account for approximately $2.7 billion in food revenue over the next five years”. Per this ordinance, food trucks may vend near certain Altoona city park locations, in downtown, and in plaza parking locations in River Prairie. The purpose of this ordinance is to regulate food vending activities in order to protect public health, safety, and welfare, while accommodating commercial uses that generally promote an active and social pedestrian environment within appropriate areas of the City of Altoona. The overall goal of the ordinance is to provide a business climate in Altoona that offers equitable opportunities for both food vending operations and permanent restaurants so as to provide residents and visitors with a variety of food options and a vibrant food scene in our community. You can view this ordinance by visiting the City of Altoona’s website, click on the “Residents” tab and then on the “Mobile Food Vendor License Application!”

Altoona Welcomes New Elementary School Just in time for the start of the 2016 – 2017 school year, the School District of Altoona welcomed the new state-ofthe-art Altoona Elementary School. A community grand opening celebration was held on August 25th, 2016, as several hundred members of the community attended. The new elementary school was opened to the public for tours and a ribbon cutting ceremony took place. The school features outdoor trails, interactive computer labs and classroom technologies, and a spacious library.

Page 3 Every residential property will be inspected once every 10 years in coordination with our meter exchange program, and we ask for your cooperation in scheduling an appointment when you receive your scheduling notice.

Most appointments will take approximately 15 minutes. At the end of the inspection, if the property is found to be compliant, a Compliance Tag will be attached to the meter. If violations were found and the property is noncompliant, the property owner, or their representative, will be provided a report indicating what steps need to be taken to bring the property into compliance. This may include the need for a property owner to purchase, from a home improvement store or the City, and install backflow prevention devices. You will then be notified when a follow-up appointment needs to be scheduled, which should be completed within two months of the initial inspection. The followup appointment is to ensure that all required backflow prevention devices are correctly installed.

WI Dept. Safety & Professional & Professional Services: www.dsps.wi.gov/sb/ WI Dept. of Natural Resources: www.dnr.wi.gov Environmental Protection Agency: www.epa.gov WI Cross Connection Control Resources: www.hydrodesignsinc.com/wiccc.html

Altoona Emergency Services Update This past year has been highlighted by many accomplishments, the biggest is the addition of a new fire chief. The new fire chief will be welcomed early 2017. I will continue to serve our amazing city as your police chief. I am looking forward to working with the fire chief and together we will make 2017 the best year ever. I look forward to showing our community things they have never seen before. Together we will be able to move things full steam ahead as we continue to grow as a city. We had an increase in calls for service throughout Altoona Emergency Services. The number of Police incidents increased by approximately 4%. There was a more dramatic increase of 20% for fire and EMS incidents. When we started out the 2016 year responding to over 100 calls for service by the end of January, I was excited, but concerned. Our growth in Altoona has exploded and River Prairie has taken shape. We have had a couple of new health care facilities open, plus the welcome of new businesses and homes. This has definitely contributed to the higher call volume. We live and serve by our commitment to our residents and visitors alike, as we are “Putting Our Community First.” I want to thank our community for their continued support of your Altoona Emergency Services. We were able to equip every police, fire and EMS vehicles with Automated External Defibrillators (AED) this past year. These devices were used at least a half of dozen times in 2016 and with your support, your investment helped save lives.

We had many donations come in for our bicycle safety program where we focused on our children and adults wearing helmets when they rode their bikes. We handed out coupons for many different treats, Altoona PD water bottles, and coupons for a chance to win a brand new bike. At least 10 of our residents were selected and each won a brand new bike. We had other prizes such as bike helmets, gift cards, and certificates. We plan on a bike rodeo in 2017 and a repeat promotional effort of another safety program. Fortunately we did not have any structure fires in Altoona in 2016, so a big thankyou to all of you safe citizens out there. This is a big win for our entire community. However, we, as a fire department, did assist our neighbors on several occasions due to fires in their communities. We are here to support each other. This ensures we all go home safely, together! You can always replace property, but not life. Thank you for your support! It grows more and more each year. -Chief Jesse James


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The Altoona Citizen

Altoona Parks and Recreation Department Update The Altoona Parks & Recreation Department has had another exciting year with many positive changes to facilities, programs and parks. A few highlights listed below. OUR OFFICE IS MOVING: We are moving again! The Parks & Recreation Office will have its forever home in the Prairie Event Center, located at 1419 Front Porch Place. Office hours will continue to be 7:30 am to 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday, and the phone number remains 715-839-5188. As summer approaches the Recreation Office will be open for park equipment rental (bocce ball, kubb, and croquette) on weekends and some evenings.

THANK YOU: Development at Centennial Park continues… last April 27th volunteers spent most of the day helping City staff assemble the playground equipment, the benches next to the playground and the game table located at the end of the trail close to Otter Creek. A special thank you to the following Centennial Park work day volunteers: Joe Darnell, Lance Hanson, Joe Borton, Brian Gonstead, Brad Poquette, Bill Hoepener, Branden Pratt and Mr. & Mrs. Carrol Waldenberger. MUSIC: The Recreation department is excited to announce that musical instruments will be put in Centennial Park this coming spring thanks to the donations by Otter Creek Christian Academy and the Altoona Lions! These musical instruments were designed to withstand the elements and for rigorous outdoor play! Exciting stuff for Centennial Park and its continued development! We look forward to the end result which transforms an undeveloped area into a unique place where residents of all ages will be able to relax and enjoy nature year-round.

EXPLORE: Don’t forget to visit the many parks within Altoona including one of our newest- Fairway Park! Located in Hillcrest Greens, Fairway Park’s amenities include: basketball court, pickleball courts, playground and rentable pavilion. There’s more to this new park >> take a walk along the path which winds adjacent to Otter Creek to enjoy more of the scenery in this beautiful park.

PROGRAMS: Although it may not seem like it, spring is right around the corner! The Parks & Recreation Department has been working hard to research and develop new programs and opportunities. Be on the lookout for our 2017 spring/summer brochure which will be filled with recreation and enrichment options for all ages to enjoy! The brochure was mailed to all Altoona residents on March 8th along with a digital copy being available on the City’s website. Extra copies can be found at the Altoona Elementary School, City Hall, and the Altoona Public Library. LIKE US: Don’t forget to “Like” Altoona Parks and Recreation on Facebook for all updates on programs, services, cancellations, event photos and more! VOLUNTEER: Share one of the greatest gifts you can give, your time! We are in need of parents or community members to help out with our various youth programs. Supporting your community has never been easier. Contact the Parks & Recreation department at 715-839-5188 to get involved!

SHARE: Do you have a special skill, interest, knowledge or hobby you’d like to share with other Altoona residents? Professional certification is not required; passion and enthusiasm are a must! Altoona Parks & Recreation department is always looking for enthusiastic leaders and new class ideas that help meet the needs of learners of all ages, stages, abilities and interests. Our program brochure isn’t complete without you! ADVERTISE: Are you looking for a way to advertise your business or organization for a reasonable price? Look no further! The Altoona Parks & Recreation Department offers three different sponsorship opportunities: the Banner Program, the Brochure Ad Program and the Digital Marquee Program. These programs will not only get your business or organization advertised, but will gain recognition as a Parks & Recreation sponsor along with helping park improvements become a reality! Call us at 715-839-5188 or stop by our office for more information on how to get involved!

ALTOONA PUBLIC LIBRARY UPDATE Altoona Public Library is thriving in 2017 We live in a world where almost any kind of outing means spending money. You’re not allowed to sit in a coffee shop for hours unless you buy something, and you can’t take food out of the grocery store unless you pay for it. This does not apply at the library. People are more than welcome to be in the library, use Wi-Fi and computers, and check out materials at no cost. The Altoona Public Library is no exception.

In addition to the usual books, DVD’s, CD’s, and magazines the library offers, our programs for kids, teens, and adults are--not to sound like a broken record-- free! Where else can you get free regularly scheduled story times for toddlers and preschoolers, a reading program with a local therapy dog named Mocha Joe, and a thriving Summer Reading Program that is full of fun activities? It’s our library, where teens have a safe space to be on our Teen Advisory Board, come to Minecraft Club, and participate in programs like Fandom Fest, Halloween parties, and a late night Lock-In. The library is a place where adults have the opportunity to try something new like joining one of our three book clubs (Mystery, Food for Thought, or Book Bites) and reading a book they wouldn’t have normally chosen as well as meeting new people. Programs such as author visits, art and craft events, and other educational offerings are also open to adults. Libraries are also fully embracing the technology age. Those who have an account at the Altoona Public Library have full access to digital materials on Overdrive which includes e-books, e-audiobooks, and digital magazines. You can also add iPads and Kindles to the list of items available for checkout. Our staff is more than willing to assist with any technology questions and there is even one-on-one technology help available. All of those opportunities are -- you guessed it -- free.

The myth is busted; libraries are still here and they are thriving! We have so much more to offer than just books (though we have plenty of those, and we love them!) We at the Altoona Public Library are here to promote literacy, build community, and enrich lives. We hope everyone in our community is getting the most out of their library. Find out all there is to offer by visiting www. altoonapubliclibrary.org, or visit us anytime we’re open: Monday -Thursday 9 am - 8 pm, Friday 9 am - 6 pm and Saturday 9 am - 5 pm.

A Note About County Library Funding You may be aware that there is a system of payments between municipalities in Eau Claire County for library usage. If you are an Altoona city resident and check out materials at the Eau Claire library, for example, at the end of the year Altoona pays the Eau Claire library a certain cost per each item checked out. Conversely, Altoona receives funds for each item checked out by an Eau Claire city resident at our library. The amount per item changes yearly based on library circulation and expenses, but is often between $3 and $4. What does this mean for you? We want you to use library resources from any library in the way that works best for you. We’d like you to be aware that when you check out your items (from any library in our MORE system) in Altoona, the city is not charged at the end of the year. If you live in Altoona and pick up your items at a different library, some of your tax dollars will go to reimburse that library for your usage. If you have questions or suggestions on improving library services please feel free to contact our library director, Christina Jones.

Altoona City Council Passes Pets in Parks Policy In April 2017, City Council passed an ordinance which allows cats and dogs in Altoona City Parks. The goal of this ordinance update is to increase the usability of our City Parks and to provide expanded recreational opportunities for the pet owners of Altoona. Dogs and cats must be under the control of their owners at all times. Owners must use a leash that has a length of no longer than six feet. Dogs will also be restricted to where they can be within parks in proximity to the premises of licensed food establishments. Owners will be required to pick up their animal’s waste. Pet waste bags will be provided at each of the parks. Owners will be held accountable for the actions of their dogs under the penalties section if found in violation of this ordinance. This ordinance also distinguishes that other domesticated animals, with the exception of dogs and cats, are not allowed in city parks unless permitted in conjunction with a special event. The City may close areas of parks to pets during public events or activities. If areas are closed, such spaces shall be designated through signage. We hope you and your pet enjoy a walk in one of our great parks!


The Altoona Citizen

CITY PLANNING UPDATE Altoona Welcomes its New City Planner Joshua Clements Joshua Clements joined the City in February 2016 as its first City Planner. As the Director of the Planning Department, Josh conducts review of development and zoning proposals, completes long-range planning, supervises building inspection and code enforcement, contributes to design of parks and city facilities, and generally champions the efficient and orderly development of the City. Josh’s focus is on thoughtfully deploying evidence-based techniques and best practices for developing more sustainable, resilient and inclusive communities through proactive city planning and informed decision-making. Previously, Josh worked for two years with Iowa State University as a Community Development Specialist in the Dubuque region, and completed seven years of service with UW-Extension. Josh is a graduate of the UW-Madison Department of Urban & Regional Planning and member of the American Institute of Certified Planners. Josh serves on the Eau Claire Transit Commission and holds an elected leadership position in the American Planning Association. A native of Wausau, Josh enjoys his free time with his family and friends by bicycling, hiking, traveling, and exploring area parks and social venues.

Ordinance Enforcement The City of Altoona enforces a variety of ordinances to uphold public safety and welfare. Police officers and patrol vehicles are perhaps the first image that comes to one’s mind. Building codes and zoning ordinances are additional methods utilized by Cities and Counties to promote health, safety, morals and the general welfare of the community. Building codes are developed by State and National professional associations to ensure buildings are designed and constructed to acceptable standards primarily to address safety and public health. For example, codes are written to reduce risk of fire, damage from water, and hold up to weather. Building permits and inspections are tools that the City uses to ensure that when new development occurs, or when certain types of renovations and improvements are made, that the work is inspected and conforms to these requirements. The fees collected from permitting cover part of the cost for staff to review, inspect and enforce the applicable code. All City ordinances are available on the City website, www.ci.altoona.wi.us/government.phtml.

Zoning refers to the use and/or character of development that takes place on a property. Traditionally, these “zones” dictate land use, such as single-family homes, commercial businesses, or industrial activities. Associated standards include how far a building must be from a property line, height of structures, amount of parking, types of business activities permitted, among other elements. There are additional layers of conditional permitting for the purpose of creating a review process to ensure any negative impacts of development to City systems, adjoining properties, and the general public are limited. Generally, building codes dictate the building structure and systems, while zoning addresses use of the land and how the building relates to its surroundings.

The City enforces building and zoning codes to ensure that the condition of property and the activities taking place conform to adopted standards. Until 2016, most enforcement action resulted from the City responding to citizen complaints or staff observation of flagrant violations. This past year the Mayor and City Council directed staff to increase priority on identifying clearly visible code violations and working with property owners to achieve successful resolution. Code enforcement efforts are generally led by the Building Inspector and City Planner, with assistance from Public Works, Fire Department inspectors and the Police Department. The City also collaborates with the County Health Department and other agencies.

The City investigated 182 code enforcement cases in 2016, with 68 percent of the cases considered resolved. Many of the remaining cases are in progress, with progress or verified resolution of some of these not possible due to winter conditions. The most common violations concern the condition and upkeep of property and are reasonably strait forward to resolve. The most frequent violations in the past year were: accumulation of garbage, junk or other debris; parking vehicles on the front lawn; and constructing sheds and fences without permits. When a citizen submits a complaint, or conditions are observed by staff, City staff will investigate and collect relevant information. This may include visiting the property, examining property records, and following-up with any contact persons. If one or more violations are identified, staff will prepare a notice

Page 5 illustrating the violation that will be sent to the property owner. This notice serves as a formal warning, and includes a reasonable deadline for resolution. Most violations are easily resolved, while occasionally more significant effort is required. City staff welcomes questions or clarifications from property owners and neighbors. Once the resolution is reported to the City or followup is completed to verify completion, the property owner will receive a confirmation letter.

Failure to comply shall constitute a violation of City ordinance(s) and shall be subject to penalties in the form of municipal citations. Most citations range from $ 169 to $ 350. The City’s first intent is compliance with applicable codes in letter and spirit, and pursuit of punitive measures will be taken only when voluntary compliance is not secured in a reasonable timeframe. Only five of the 182 cases investigated in 2016 were referred to the Police Department for issuance of citations due to lack of effort or cooperation. If you see a property condition or non-emergency activity that raises your concern, please contact City Hall at 715-839-6092 or [email protected]. wi.us. For emergencies or immediate health and safety threats, contact the Police Department by calling 911. To assist staff in investigating the concern, please include the address, description, and pictures if possible. Most complaint investigations begin within two business days. With your help, the City of Altoona continues to be a safe, clean, and vibrant place to live, work, and play.

Altoona Growth Trends

The City of Altoona continues to be one of the most rapidly growing cities in Wisconsin, as measured by estimated percentage of annual population growth. The most recent State estimates as of January 2016 place Altoona’s estimated population as 7,345, a 9.5 percent change over the 2010 Census and the 5th highest rate for a City in Wisconsin. Permits for 118 new housing units were approved in 2016, the second highest total since 2000. Due to the timing of approvals, construction of many of these units will take place into Spring 2017.

Construction began on 14 new single family homes in 2016 with a median estimated value of $260,000, an increase from the three-year median of $195,000. Fourteen is the lowest number of single-family homes approved in a single year since 2012. The average number of annual new single family homes constructed in Altoona since 2000 is 20, with a high of 42 (2005) and low of 6 (2010). While development of single family homes continues, the bright spot over the past five years has been of two-family and multi-unit buildings. Excluding senior housing, 304 units, or 72% of the total units added between 20112016 have been in these housing types. Current permitting activity suggests that this trend will continue in 2017. Two multi-family projects totaling 84 units were approved and construction began in 2016. The first is the 51-unit Prairie Place Apartments in River Prairie, and the other is the 33 unit second building at The Clubhouse development in Hillcrest. Based upon current pre-development activity, City staff anticipates 2017 may be a record year for multi-unit developments in Altoona. Total Residentials Units Added per Year Total Residentials Units Added per Year 160 160 149 140 149 140 120 118 120 118 100 100 98 100 100 98 80 80 60 60 60 60 60 60 40 38 34 34 32 40 30 38 34 34 32 21 21 30 20 20 18 12 21 21 20 20 18 12 0 02001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016

Total Number of Housing Units Total Number of Housing Units 4000 4000 3500 3500

3,602 3,484 3,602 3,386 3,484 3,237 3,386 3,177 3000 3,237 3,077 3,045 3,027 3,177 3,006 2,994 3000 2,930 2,964 3,077 2,870 2,994 3,006 3,027 3,045 2,812 2,832 2,930 2,964 2,757 2,791 2,870 2,832 25002,757 2,791 2,812

2500 2000 20002000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016


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CITY PLANNING UPDATE Pursuing Excellence in Place: Parks, Rec & Trails Planning The City of Altoona is currently conducting a planning effort to create a vision for public space throughout the City. This process includes significant public engagement and dialogue, evaluation of existing facilities, study of best practices, identifying opportunities, and working with citizens and elected officials to determine vision and priorities. More than a needs-based inventory, this vision will create a compelling action-oriented program to improve quality of life for all residents and visitors. Communities take multiple approaches to plan, design and manage public space, including parks, facilities, recreational programs, trails, and streetscapes. The most prevalent approach is to conduct planning for specific facility types or functional areas of departmental responsibility. For example, parks and recreation are typically planned separately than transportationoriented bicycle and pedestrian facilities. Altoona is embarking on an ambitious task to elevate both the quality and use of public spaces in the City, to thoughtfully integrate multiple functions, and improve accessibility for all people. The first priority is to maintain and improve existing parks and ensure facilities are in good condition and wellused. Next, an ambitious vision for existing and future public spaces will be developed to meet contemporary desires of a high quality-of-life community.

The Altoona Citizen

WATER UTILITY UPDATE Do You Have a Water Leak? Two of the most frequently asked questions that the Altoona Water Utility hears are, “Why is my water bill so high?” or “How could I have used this much water?”

The #1 culprit is a water leak and the most likely place is from a toilet. Since the water flows down the sewer, a leaking toilet doesn’t necessarily leave any signs of a leak, until you get the bill. The average leaky toilet can waste about 200 gallons of water per day.

That’s over 6,000 gallons a month for just one leaking toilet!

If you suspect that you have a leak, try this test. Take the lid off the toilet tank and add a couple of drops of food coloring to the water in the tank. Do not flush. Wait 15 minutes. If the food coloring shows up in the toilet bowl, your toilet has a leak. The plunger ball or flapper probably needs to be cleaned or replaced, or there could be a crack in the overflow tube. If you suspect you have a leak and need assistance locating it, please e-mail us at [email protected] and request a Leak Detection Guide. The Leak Detection Guide offers information on where to look.

The bicycle and pedestrian elements of the plan will prioritize completing missing trail and sidewalk segments, improving safety at key intersections and corridors, and expanding connectivity to all neighborhoods. The basic concept is that people of all ages should be able to get around the City on foot or bicycle safely. The City is also supporting the update of the Chippewa Valley Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan that identifies regional routes and improves communication and collaboration between local jurisdictions. Throughout the spring and summer of 2016 City staff conducted a citizen survey to gain feedback on how parks are utilized and what people consider as needs and priorities for improvements. This survey yielded 386 total responses.

In addition to the survey, City staff held 11 park “meet-ups” and 4 focus groups in August and September to talk to people in each existing park. City staff is planning additional feedback opportunities this Spring, with target completion in April. Please stay tuned as additional focus groups and open houses will be scheduled for the Spring. With River Prairie Park to be completed this year and recent improvements to Centennial Park, the new City plan will continue the positive momentum. Feedback and insights are always welcome by stopping into City Hall, or at 715-839-6092, [email protected].

Altoona Welcomes its Management Analyst Fellow Roy Atkinson Roy Atkinson joined the City of Altoona in May as the Management Analyst Fellow. He began employment in Altoona as part of the ICMA Local Government Management Fellow program. Before he arrived in Altoona, Roy was selected as a Michigan Local Government Management Association Summer Fellow in 2015 with the City of Clare, Michigan and served as a City Management Intern with the City of Bay City, Michigan. Roy holds a BA in Political Science from Saginaw Valley State University and a MPA from Central Michigan University. Roy has deep interests in policy, city communications, parks and recreation management, and public engagement. He is an active member of the International City/County Management Association, Wisconsin City Management Association, and Engaging Local Government Leaders Association. In his spare time, Roy enjoys traveling, listening to all sorts of music, running occasionally and following various sports.


The Altoona Citizen

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Communications Update

Water Quality

This past year has provided significant growth on City of Altoona social media pages. The City has started utilizing a variety of different social media platforms in order to distribute information. Our goal is to reach out and interact with you the best we can. In the past year we have doubled our Facebook followers. We will be sharing community news and happenings as much as possible. We want you to BE ENGAGED with us! Please visit the Connect area of our website to link up to and like our City of Altoona social media pages! If you have any questions, you may consider sending the City direct messages or commenting on posts. In doing so, city staff will respond to inquiries.

The City of Altoona, in its goal to meet the requirements of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, has made some recent changes to its water supply and distribution system.

Granicus Meeting Streaming

ALTOONA IS GROWING: Proof is in the numbers!

The City of Altoona has added online meeting streaming for meetings held in the City of Altoona Council Chambers. If you are looking for past meeting recordings, you can access recorded meetings circa February 9, 2017, through the Granicus video archive on the City website. This solution is easy to navigate as the user can click between agenda items and search for relative content in a search bar. To access video streaming, click on the “Government” section of the City website.

Cartegraph Citizen Reporting Application Do you know of a streetlight that is out? Are you aware of a pothole that has appeared in a street? The City of Altoona has added the citizen reporting tool Cartegraph in order to increase responsiveness to citizen concerns. This solution is available via desktop and mobile application. You can access Cartegraph through the front page of the City website or through the Connect area. Users can also download the application for their Apple or Android device through the Connect area of the City website.

Cinder City Park Digital Sign Recently, the City Council voted to add a digital marquee sign in Cinder City Park. This digital marquee provides an outlet for marketing Parks and Recreation Department, City and Community events that take place in and around Altoona. In addition, this digital marquee enhances the City’s mission of furthering public awareness and outreach within the community. If you are interested in City happenings, take a spin past this sign!

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Historically, Altoona was not required to add continuous disinfection to its water system. The DNR required the City to do so in 2010. In 2016, the DNR requested that we adjust and maintain a detectable level of residual disinfectant throughout the system. In order to meet this goal, the City applied to the DNR to upgrade its chemical feed equipment. The DNR approved, and the equipment was upgraded in the fall of 2016. As Altoona slowly increased the disinfectant within the system, to meet its residual goals, the City began receiving complaints about a chlorine taste and odor. Public Works addressed each complaint by flushing the adjacent water main and taking chlorine readings. While the disinfectant level was appropriate in each case, it represented a level with which residents were not accustomed. While the rate of complaints has decreased, some lingering concerns remain. Altoona is currently working with a consultant to analyze the entire water supply system to determine steps to address lingering taste and odor concerns. We appreciate your patience as we transition through this process. If you have any questions or concerns regarding Altoona’s water, please contact City Hall at 715-839-6092.

The graphic below reveals the worth of Altoona’s growth since 1991. The assessed value is the total of land plus improvements and is used to calculate the mill rate for real property taxes. The equalized value is the sum of land plus improvements. The equalized value is determined by many things including the growth and sales of property in the area. The equalized value is considered when issuing long term general obligation debt. A city can borrow up to 5% of its equalized value in general obligation debt and this debt is secured by property taxes. General obligation debt is secured by property taxes. Each year the equalized value is compared to the assessed value to determine an assessment or aggregate ratio. This ratio is reviewed and certified by the WI Department of Revenue to make sure the municipality’s assessed value is close to the equalized value of the city. playground area and splash pad. The entire park will be tied together by a meandering stream, constructed to encourage play and interaction. Rent a pavilion for a party or family gathering or cozy up next to the fire pit while enjoying food from a local food truck. Visitors may also patronize one of the many businesses and restaurants at the park's periphery via an extensive trail system. Those interested in arts and entertainment may attend a community festival in the park's Great Plaza or a concert at one of the park's many music venues. Also located along the banks of the Eau Claire River is the River Prairie Trail which provides for a scenic recreational experience. The Prairie Event Center will open this summer located adjacent to River Prairie Park, the Event Center will host a variety of community events, from running races, to car shows to concerts to food festivals; the possibilities are only limited by one's imagination! Private parties may also rent the Event Center for weddings, company parties, corporate trainings, anniversary parties, birthdays, banquets or reunions. There will be room for 250 seated guests and the Event Center will feature a full bar serving both the inside of the building and Event Center's large outdoor patio. The Event Center will have a full service catering kitchen as well as three outside wedding venues. I hope you share in the excitement that I hold for River Prairie. I invite you to come see the growth for yourself!

Are you interested in receiving community news updates? You can sign up for these weekly emails by visiting the front page of the Website and clicking on the “SIGN-UP FOR COMMUNITY NEWS” tab which resembles the above graphic. This area is also available on the Connect area of the website. Sign-up at www.ci.altoona.wi.us today!

Public Works Update – Proposed Street Improvements From

To

Description

Look out for changes to the City’s website!

Spooner Avenue

Altoona Avenue

Full reconstruction of roadway and utilities.

3rd Street East

5th Street East

Oakwood Drive

Lawrence Avenue

Full reconstruction of roadway and utilities. Full reconstruction of roadway and utilities.

Existing pavement end west of Blazing Star Boulevard

West end

Coming in May, you will find new features and navigation tools on the City’s web-site. We’ve added drop down menus to make navigation faster. You will also see an interactive map to find your way to the many recreational opportunities such as parks, picnic areas, playgrounds, and trails, plus businesses and restaurants located within our city. Need to report a maintenance issue such as a pothole or street light outage? You can do that by utilizing a citizen reporting application called Cartegraph. You will discover that these upgrades and added features make it easier to reach out to the City and to find the information you need to live, work and play in our Altoona!

-Mayor Brendan Pratt

Public Works Update – Proposed Street Improvements Project Name

Street

Country Club Estates Country Club ReconstructionLane Phase 1 Daniels Avenue Daniels Reconstruction Avenue 5th Street East 5th Street East Reconstruction Woodman Drive Extension Fairway Park Parking Lot

Woodman Drive

Extension of roadway surface only. Construction of a parking lot for Fairway Park, near the east end of St. Andrews Drive


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The Altoona Citizen

Mark Your Calendar!

City of Altoona Frequently Asked Questions Question

Answer

What can I recycle curbside? Where & how do I dispose… • Grass clippings, leaves, brush, etc.? • Automotive waste? • Paint & paint cans? • Construction materials? • Electronics? • Appliances?

The City of Altoona does not offer a recycling service center because a portion of your real estate taxes already pay for this service at the county level of government. For all your recycling questions and needs, please go to www.co.eau-claire.wi.us > How Do I… > Recycling Program or please call the Recycling Coordinator at 715-839-2756.

Do I need a permit to burn brush, leaves, grass clippings or other garden materials?

Yes, a burning permit is required. You can obtain a permit from the Altoona Fire Department located in the Emergency Services Building at 1904 Spooner Avenue. Suggestion: Call the Altoona Fire Department at 715-839-2970 to see if weather conditions are favorable for burning.

Am I allowed to deposit snow, leaves, lawn clippings onto the street?

Do I need to shovel my sidewalk?

Where can I find applications and forms for… • Building inspections? • Elections? • Licenses? • Permits & Rentals? • Engineering and Construction? • Water Utilities? Where can I find the Altoona Municipal Code book?

No. Debris in the street creates a traffic hazard and can clog the storm water collection system. Please utilize recycling programs to dispose of lawn materials.

Yes, sidewalks must be cleared of snow and ice within 24 hours following a snowfall or icy weather. Snow/ice covered sidewalks can be reported by sending an e-mail to: cityhall@ ci.altoona.wi.us or by calling 715-839-6092.

You can find applications at www.ci.altoona.wi.us > Residents or by visiting City Hall at 1303 Lynn Avenue.

You can find the Altoona Municipal Code Book at www.ci.altoona.wi.us > Government or visit Altoona City Hall or the Altoona Public Library, both at 1303 Lynn Avenue.

CITY CLERK UPDATE Vote Go to the city’s website for Altoona election information. You can also go to myvote.wi.gov to verify your registration status, view your voting history, find what ward you are located in, and look up your representatives and their contact information. All future elections will take place at the Altoona Emergency Services Building at 1904 Spooner Avenue from 7 AM until 8 PM.

Please note that in-person early voting will take place at Altoona City Hall at 1303 Lynn Avenue. For more information, please contact City Clerk Cindy Bauer at 715-839-6092 or via email at [email protected].

Upcoming Elections Scheduled for 2018

2018 Spring Primary : February 20, 2018 2018 Spring Election: April 3, 2018 2018 Partisan Primary: August 14, 2018 2018 Fall General Election: November 6, 2018

Board of Review If you are sent a notice that your property assessment has changed, you have the opportunity to review your assessment during open book with the City tax assessor. If you feel your assessed value is not correct, then you have the opportunity to meet before the Board of Review to appeal your assessment. If you wish to appeal, then you can appear before the Board of Review. The Board of Review, comprised of the Mayor, Council, and City Clerk, meets annually at any time during the 30-day period beginning on the 2nd Monday of May. The specific date of the meeting will be posted on the City’s website. Any questions regarding your property assessed valuations should be directed to Bowmar Appraisals at 715-834-5801.

April Water Utility bills mailed (check bill for due date) Calendar parking ends on the 15th City Parks Clean Up on the 22nd – 10AM

June Cinder City Days on the 8th – 11th

July 1st of July BIG BANG at Cinder City Park* Small Town Tourney on July 8th – 9th Water Utility bills mailed (check bill for due date) Real estate taxes (2nd half) due on the 31st September Water Utility bills mailed (check bill for due date)

October Chippewa Valley Rock and Roll Kickball Classic on the 6th -7th Water utility and special assessment payments must be paid in full by the 31st to avoid any outstanding balance being applied to the tax roll

November Calendar parking starts on the 15th

December Calendar parking in effect Purchase 2018 Dog License Real Estate & Personal Property tax bills mailed

January 2018 Calendar parking in effect Water Utility bills mailed (check bill for due date) Purchase 2018 Dog License Personal property taxes due on the 31st Real estate taxes (1st half) due on the 31st Winter Fest and Games

February 2018 Calendar parking in effect Spring Primary Election on the 16th*

*Go to www.ci.altoona.wi.us for more information.

Do I need a Building Permit?

If you find that you may need a building permit or if you have any questions about the permitting process, please call the Building Inspector at 715-8395192 or visit www.ci.altoona.wi.us.

YES

Basement remodel • Adding bedroom • Adding family room • Adding bathroom • Adding laundry room Bathroom remodel Deck and/or outdoor stairs • Adding • Replacing Door • Adding • Replace with larger or smaller • Removing Driveway or parking pad • Enlarge • Replace Fence Furnace Garage • Adding • Replacing • Removing Kitchen remodel Re-roof Shed/accessory building larger than 32 sq ft • Adding • Replacing • Removing Swimming Pool with a depth 2 feet or greater Walls or Partitions, bearing or non-bearing • Addition • Removal Window • Adding • Removing • Replace with larger or smaller

NO

Door replacement of equal size Fascia replacement Floor coverings Rain gutter replacement Soffit replacement Wall coverings interior (i.e. drywall, wallpaper, paneling) Window replacement of equal size
