Hello Chanhassen Residents,
Thank you for taking the time to read through this email. It is a busy time in Chanhassen with projects, special events, and hopefully time to get outside and enjoy our community.
Memorial Day Ceremony
Please join us at noon on Monday, May 27 at the Veteran’s Monument in City Center Park as we honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our great nation. If you are unable to join us, I ask that you take a moment to reflect on the true meaning of this important day. Please see the schedule of events here.
Comcast Franchise Agreement
On Monday, the City Council approved the Franchise Agreement for Comcast. Comcast proposes to build fiber to every dwelling unit and commercial building within the city. They have committed to completing construction and offering cable and internet services citywide within the next two years with construction starting this summer. Utility easement concerns were brought forward during the Public Hearing as well as emails to me. Comcast has committed to providing a direct customer service line to address any issues related to the construction in these designated areas. More information will be available once the customer service line is established.
This new provider does not replace any existing service, it is simply an additional option. Chanhassen residents and businesses have consistently expressed a desire for more options, and we are pleased to see the private market responding to these needs.
Lake Ann Park Lifeguards
Lake Ann Beach will not have lifeguards this season. This was not the desire of any Council member or staff member as we know this beach is used by families and kids of all ages, and safety is always a priority for us and our community.
In the fall of 2023, we were notified by Minnetonka 276 Community Education that they were no longer offering contractual services for lifeguards due to their insurance. We began advertising for lifeguards in early spring of 2024. While we had a broad outreach effort (203,812 total reach) we had zero applicants. The city even offered to pay for training; however, we were still unable to fill the need.
Chanhassen isn’t alone, as sadly, there is a nationwide shortage of lifeguards which has impacted many public swimming areas, pools, and beaches, leading to reduced hours or even closures. Even with our contracted services, we experienced reduced days/hours over the last couple of years. Carver County beaches had to make the same decision and are also unguarded. All picnic shelter reservation holders and parents of Lake Ann Camp participants received direct notification about this change.
We will evaluate again next year, but for this upcoming season, the beaches will be without lifeguards. Signs will be prominently posted.
Chanhassen Bluffs Community Center
The City Council is refining plans for the proposed Chanhassen Bluffs Community Center, to be funded through a Local Option Sales Tax (additional 1/2 cent). This will be a referendum question on the November 2024 ballot. Open House dates will be scheduled this summer to collect feedback, share project details, and have an opportunity for general Q&A. See the latest designs here. I will share more details as they become available.
GFAO Award
I am proud to share that for the very first time, the City of Chanhassen received the Government Finance Officer Association’s (GFAO) Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for its budget. This award is the highest form of recognition in governmental budgeting. Congratulations to the Finance staff - your hard work is valued and appreciated!
I am always available with any questions or comments you may have at eryan@chanhassenmn.gov.
Warmest Regards,
Elise Ryan
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