17562 Brookfield news Sum06

Summer 2006 www.ci.brookfield.wi.us What’s Inside Police Department . . . . 3-4 Letter from the Mayor Hello Neighbor, s Martha and the Vandellas sing, “Summer’s here and the time is right for dancing in the streets.” Well, I don’t know about dancing in the streets, but the time is right for dancing in the park, watching a baseball game, hanging out at the drive-in movie, swimming at the pool and all the fun things that make up the wonderful Brookfield summer! Page through this newsletter and mark your calendar with some of the many events sure to make the most of your summer! Join your neighbors and friends at the Saturday morning market, now in full swing. Music lovers will enjoy the noontime and evening Civic Plaza concerts, as well as the Starry Nights Concert series at the Sharon Lynn Wilson Center for the Arts. My summer favorites? I am looking so forward to the “back-by-popular demand” performance of the University of Wisconsin-Madison Marching Band as they perform their “5th Quarter” routine following the 4th of July Parade! Also, the Mitchell Park “Drive-in Movie” on August 12th will feature one of my kids all time favorites — “Grease.” Special thanks to event sponsor Jack Safro Toyota and the Park and Rec staff for organizing this fun event, which promises to be even better than last year! I can’t wait! On a final and very different note, I want to thank you for your support in electing me to serve as your mayor for another four years. It is an honor to be a part of this fabulous community and I am committed to the vision that “Brookfield’s best years are yet to come!” As always, I always enjoy talking with the residents of this community — perhaps I will see you at some of the summer happenings. Be safe and have a great summer! Mayor Jeff Speaker Fire Department. . . . . . . . 5 A Parks, Recreation and Forestry Department. . . 6-9 Wirth Aquatic Center Hours and Fees . . . . . . . . 9 Community Development . . . . . . . . . 10 Assessor . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Finance . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Library . . . . . . . . . . . 12-13 For Your Information . . . . . . . 14-15 Recycling Center Hours The Recycling Center is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1 p.m.-7 p.m. beginning May 1st through November 30th and open every Saturday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. year-round. City of Brookfield Council Members MAYOR Jeff R. Speaker (262) 787-3500 City Hall Phone Numbers Emergency City Hall Assessor Building Inspection Code Enforcement City Clerk 911 (262) 782-9650 (262) 796-6649 (262) 796-6646 (262) 796-6646 (262) 796-6653 (262) 796-6695 (262) 796-6694 (262) 796-6660 (262) 787-3919 (262) 782-9650 (262) 782-8932 (262) 782-5029 (262) 796-6642 (262) 782-4140 (262) 367-6040 (262) 796-6675 (262) (262) (262) (262) (262) (262) (262) (262) 787-3700 787-3702 787-3557 787-3623 796-6689 787-3566 787-3701 782-8757 ALDERMAN District 1 Bill Carnell (262) 781-1058 Daniel Sutton (262) 373-0173 District 5 Scott Berg (262) 797-8772 Gary Mahkorn (262) 784-0605 Community Development Planning Economic Development Court Engineering Finance/Treasurer Fire Non-Emergency Highway/Streets Human Resources Library Onyx/Veolia (Trash Contractor) Parks, Recreation & Forestry Police Non-Emergency Police Operations Community Services Officer Crime Prevention Lieutenant Police Social Worker Police Administration Records Request Business Fax Public Works Inspection Senior Community Center Water Pollution Control Center Water Utility District 2 Bob Reddin (262) 781-5824 Rick Owen (262) 790-9888 District 6 Christopher Blackburn (262) 821-5262 Jerry Mellone (262) 786-6719 District 3 Ron Balzer (262) 782-1177 James Garvens (262) 782-8482 District 7 Mike Franz (262) 786-4174 Lisa Mellone (262) 780-0805 Municipal Judge Richard J. Steinberg (262) 796-6660 District 4 Steven Ponto (262) 789-9877 Mark Nelson (262) 797-8503 CITY INFORMATION 2000 N. Calhoun Road Brookfield, WI 53005 (262) 782-9650 Webpage: www.ci.brookfield.wi.us Email: cityhall@ci.brookfield.wi.us (262) 796-6673 (262) 796-6675 (262) 782-0199 (262) 796-6717 2 Police Department City of Brookfield’s Eighth National Night Out Event August 2, 2006, from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. The City of Brookfield will hold its eighth communitywide National Night Out event on Wednesday, August 2, 2006, from 5:00-9:00 p.m., at the Brookfield Civic Plaza, south of the Safety Building, 2100 N. Calhoun Road. Communities nationwide join together in August every year to support this crime prevention and safety event. National Night Out is designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness; generate support for and participation in local anticrime efforts; strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships; and to send a message to criminals to let them know that Brookfield is “on-watch” against crime. There will be activities for all ages at National Night Out. Information booths will be set up in the Fire Department Apparatus Bay to provide tips on Neighborhood Watch, Homeland Security, Identity Theft, Internet Safety, Personal Safety, Crime Prevention for Seniors, 9-1-1 Emergency Phone Call Information, Drug Abuse Prevention, Fire Prevention, Bicycle Safety, Traffic Safety, Child Safety and Child Car Seats, Child Fingerprinting, and Sportsmen’s Safety. There will be a DNR Interactive Hunter Safety Trailer, Helicopter Rides, Civil Air Patrol, WE Energies Interactive Display, a Dunk Tank, Volleyball Games, Children’s C.P. Rail Rides and Children’s Games. In the Civic Plaza Stage area, there will be Airbag Safety, Self-Defense, and Canine Obedience Demonstrations. The musical entertainment this year will be provided by the band, “Crossfire”. Food and refreshments, a bake sale, and free National Night Out T-shirts will also be available. A Flashlight Walk Against Crime, from 8:309:00 p.m., brings everyone together for a great ending to this important event. The Brookfield Task Force on Public Safety Education, Inc. is seeking volunteers for National Night Out. For more information on the event or on volunteering, please call the City of Brookfield Police Department’s Crime Prevention Unit at (262) 787-3557, or (262) 787-3623. Vacation Check-Off Tips The City of Brookfield Police Department’s Crime Prevention Unit offers these tips to residents prior to leaving on a vacation: Notify a trusted neighbor, friend, or relative of your absence. Lock all doors, windows, and the garage door before you leave. Secure items such as jewelry, furs, cameras, credit cards, checkbooks, cash, coin collections, laptop computers, electronic equipment, etc. Cancel all deliveries such as newspapers, etc. Have mail held at the Post Office, forwarded, or picked up. Place a light or two on automatic timers. Adjust blinds or draperies to make the house appear to be occupied. Never leave a note on the door which may indicate your absence. Arrange to have the lawn cut and the yard work done. Arrange for a neighbor, friend, or relative to inspect your property regularly. Ask neighbors not to tell strangers such as salesmen, repairmen, etc., of your absence. Remove ladders, tools, etc. from sight and secure them in locked places. Do not “hide” keys under doormats, flowerpots, or similar places. Check basement windows, garage windows, and other openings. The neighbor, friend, or relative checking your home should notify the police immediately if they find any signs of entry while you are away. Upon returning, if there are any signs of burglary, such as a broken windowpane or a forced door, call the police before entering. Do not take the chance of confronting a burglar inside. 3 Police Department Bicycle License Reminder Bicycle Licenses are required in the City of Brookfield and may only be obtained at the City of Brookfield Police Department lobby by filling out a Bicycle License application card. The Bicycle License can be a tremendous help in identifying the bicycle rider in the event of an accident. It will also help the Police Department to return a bicycle to the owner if it is stolen and later recovered. The one-time fee for the license sticker is $6.00, and it is valid for as long as the bicyclist owns the bike. The license sticker should be affixed to the center post of the frame of the bicycle. including working slides and detachable magazines. Even from a close distance, it is almost impossible to distinguish an air soft gun from a real firearm. Although sold with a red muzzle, the red portion of these guns is easily removed or painted over. Brookfield City Ordinance 9.28.010 makes it illegal for anyone to discharge any “firearm, air rifle, spring or air gun of any description, or any instrument which impels a missile or pellet by compressed air, spring or other means” within the city limits. Furthermore, it is illegal to transport such an item unless “it is unloaded and knocked down or enclosed within a carrying case or other suitable container.” (This ordinance does not pertain to archery practice in designated areas in city parks.) The citation for this violation has a court deposit of $1,306.00. In some parts of the country, there have been near tragedies when police officers have confronted persons with air soft guns. Since such devices are indistinguishable from real firearms, officers respond as if they were facing real firearms. When juveniles or others armed with such devices refuse to obey police commands to disarm or actually point such guns at officers, a splitsecond, life or death decision must be made. This is an additional reason that parents need to be aware of the very real danger that is posed by air soft guns. Parents and others who permit violations of this or any other Brookfield city ordinance may also be issued a citation as well as the juvenile who possessed or fired an air soft gun or paintball gun. Air-Soft and Paintball Guns Violate City Ordinance by Assistant Chief of Police Dean Collins Like other police agencies, the Brookfield Police Department has responded to ‘man with a gun’ calls phoned in by concerned and frightened residents. Upon arrival, the officer is confronted by one or more juveniles holding very realistic looking handguns. After taking appropriate precautions and ordering the subjects to disarm, it turns out that the guns are replicas of actual firearms that use springs, compressed air, or carbon dioxide to propel a plastic projectile. What appear to be real Sig-Sauer, Colt, Walther, Smith & Wesson, or Desert Eagle pistols are in fact “air soft” guns that fire plastic balls in excess of 200-300 feet per second. There is even one that is called a ‘sawed-off shotgun’. These devices are exact in almost every detail Fireworks Regulated Brookfield Municipal Code 8.20.030 prohibits the use of any fireworks other than caps and sparklers. Firecrackers, bottle rockets, cherry bombs, M-80’s, etc. are illegal to possess within the City of Brookfield. Organizations only may apply for a users permit normally issued for festivals or celebrations. A permit may be applied for through the City Clerk’s office. No unauthorized person may use fireworks, caps, or sparklers at a fireworks display for which a permit has been issued if the display is open to the public, especially at the 4th of July fireworks display. Violations of this ordinance may result in a citation as well as the confiscation of any unused, illegal fireworks. In addition to juveniles, parents may also be cited for allowing their children to violate the fireworks ordinance. 4 Fire Department Survive Alive Celebrates 10th Anniversary! your calendars and plan to join us on Wednesday, August 2, 2006 from 5:00-9:00 pm at the Public Safety Building, 2100 N. Calhoun Rd. This fall will mark the tenth year of the Survive Alive Survive Alive Saves Lives! program in our City. Over the past ten years, we have December 3, 2001 — We have been meaning to write provided more than 46,000 hours of fire and life safety this note of gratitude to you since last Christmas Day education to over 15,000 children. The Survive Alive when we accidentally set our house on fire. We had a Facility is a full-scale model of a single story home, wreath too close to the fireplace and a spark floated up complete with classroom where children learn critical and lit the big wreath on fire. Our 11 year old life safety skills. It was built in 1996 at a cost of son had been to the Survive Alive House just more than $100,000 raised through the urvive Alive three weeks before this event and had come S efforts of the Brookfield Junior Woman’s home and asked me where the fire Club, who have provided ongoing support extinguisher was and had shown me how to for this program. The Survive Alive use it. (I personally never remember being Program is a collaboration between the shown how to use a fire extinguisher). It City of Brookfield Fire Department, the was because of the Survive Alive House that Elm Grove Fire Department, Elmbrook Progra m our entire house had not burned down (the Public Schools, the parochial grade schools in Christmas tree was not far away). Our son had both communities, and many members of both also grabbed the phone and immediately gone outside communities. Nearly all third and fifth grade children in and called the fire department. Because of his experience both communities participate in this program each year. with you, he knew to keep his sisters outside with him. Volunteers Needed! He did everything right because of you. I cannot thank To prepare for the next ten years of programs, the City you enough. You have a wonderful program. Thank you to the Brookfield Fire Dept. and the Brookfield Junior of Brookfield Fire Department and the Brookfield Woman’s Club for this great program. — Letter received Junior Woman’s Club will be giving the Survive Alive from a Brookfield resident. facility a fresh coat of paint and a thorough cleaning over the summer. To participate in this effort please Does Your Family Have contact Public Education Specialist Deena Liska at a Survive Alive Story? liska@ci.brookfield.wi.us or 262-787-3643. We are interested in hearing your stories about the Join us to Celebrate! Survive Alive program. Did you buy a rescue ladder, The Survive Alive Facility will be rededicated during install smoke detectors, or practice an exit plan as a result our community’s National Night Out celebration. The of your family’s experience here? Has your family had to Brookfield Junior Woman’s Club will be serving cake use the lessons here in real life? We would like to know the night of the event in honor of the Survive Alive about these experiences. Please contact Public Education House’s 10th birthday. We will also have special Specialist Deena Liska at liska@ci.brookfield.wi.us or activities and tours of the Survive Alive facility. Mark 262-787-3643 to share your story! Gr Elm ove kfi Broo eld 5 Parks, Recreation and Forestry Department Listed below is information on some of the programs, special events and services offered by the Parks, Recreation & Forestry Department. For more information you can visit our web site www.cityofbrookfield.com. If you have questions, please contact us at (262)796-6675. organization and line-up for the parade or to work as a parade official along the parade route. ● Consider a sponsorship or financial contribution to further enhance the parade through the addition of new music and performing groups. 4th of July Activities Parade: 10:00 a.m. on Calhoun Road between Gebhardt Rd. & North Ave. 2006 City of Brookfield Movie Series The 2006 Movie Series is sponsored by Jack Safro Toyota and Lexus. Civic Plaza Cinema — Free June 14 — PSYCHO (Not Rated) August 16 — E.T. THE EXTRA TERRESTRIAL (PG) The Brookfield Parks, Recreation & Forestry Department and the Brookfield Library offer a night out under the stars and in front of the big screen. Come early for a concert, stay late for the movie. Before each film, viewers will hear a brief history about each movie, its actors or its genre. Movies begin at dusk, approximately 8:45 p.m. Bring a blanket and popcorn, Civic Plaza Movies are free! The Civic Plaza is located next to City Hall 2000 N. Calhoun Road. Drive-in Movie @ Mitchell Park August 12 — GREASE (PG) (Rain date August 13) Cost is $10 per carload Step back in time, and watch a movie from the comfort of your own car — or pull up your favorite lawn chair. Mitchell Park will be the site for the drive-in movie this summer on a giant 65 foot screen. Listen to the audio on your FM car radio, or through the outdoor speakers. Bring your own snacks and drinks. Restrooms will be available in the Mitchell Park Pavilion. We are excited about several new entries in the parade. These include a drill team from Chicago, marching bands, community organizations and much more. Join your friends and neighbors after the parade in the Civic Plaza for the Independence Day ceremony and free ice cream social. Family Fest: 6:00-9:00 p.m. @ Mitchell Park This pre-fireworks event is sponsored by North Shore Bank. Family oriented activities will be offered including games, contests, food, and entertainment for all ages. If your civic group, youth group, business, or other community group would like to be involved in this year’s festivities, please contact the Parks and Recreation Department. Fireworks: 9:15 p.m. @ Mitchell Park The annual fireworks show will be sponsored by Pro Health Care Regency Senior Communities of Brookfield this year and will begin at approximately 9:15 p.m. Arrive early to get a great viewing location for this spectacular display. Interested in getting involved with the 4th of July activities? Here are several options: ● Sell food or beverages at Family Fest to raise funds for an organization. ● Volunteer 2-4 hours in the morning to help with Kids Korner Kids Korner provides pre-concert entertainment for the younger Civic Plaza Concert Series goers. So bring your family and a picnic to the Kids Korner and then stick around for the noon concert. June 21 • Waukesha Clowns — 11:00 a.m. The Waukesha Clowns will perform and entertain your family with a variety of interactive games. July 19 • Youth Pom Demonstration — 11:30 a.m. Come out and watch as the future Pom team hopefuls put on a show. These kids will take part in the Pom 6 workshop on July 18 and then perform during Kids Korner. Those interested in being part of the fun can enroll for the Pom workshop at the Parks, Recreation & Forestry Department. July 26 • Magician Mark Bond — 11:00 a.m. Mark is the “House Magician” at the world famous Safe House. He provides an amazing stage show and is a perennial favorite at Summerfest. Come out and watch as Mark makes magic happen. August 2 • Central Lancerettes Pom Team — 11:30 a.m. Come out and watch the Brookfield Central Pom Team as they perform for us. This will be their last performance before they go to compete in the Midwest regional event. drinks are available at the evening performances. No rain dates will be scheduled. Music is provided by Les Artistes Agency and the Recreation Department. NOON CONCERT SERIES: Wednesdays 12:00 noon-1:00 p.m. June 15 • Above the Town — Bluegrass June 21 • Jazz Excursion — Jazz (six piece) June 28 • Adekola Adedapo — Jazz, Standards, Blues July 5 • Pangaea — Caribbean July 12 • Screaming Pattersons — Bluegrass July 19 • Frogwater — Celtic July 26 • Joe Ketchum & Chris Hanson — Guitar & Violin Variety August 2 • Michael Drake — Calypso Blend August 9 • The Amigos — Latin August 16 • Jim Liban — Classic Blues Civic Plaza Concert Series presented by Elmbrook Memorial Hospital All concerts will be held at the Civic Plaza, 2000 N. Calhoun Rd, just north of City Hall. Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy these free concerts with family and friends. During the after noon concerts Cousins sub sandwiches and soft drinks are available for purchase. Snacks and soft EVENING CONCERTS: Wednesdays 7:00-8:15 p.m. June 15 • Swing Nouveau — Swing July 19 • Freistadt Alte Kameraden — German August 16 • Mama Digdown Brass Band — New Orleans Brass Band Mitchell Park — Future Plans The Parks and Recreation Commission is proceeding with the development of a comprehensive system of connecting multi-purpose, multi-seasonal pathways and trails within Mitchell Park which will also include an external connection to Waukesha County Fox Brook Park to the west. The development of the park trail system will provide residents with additional naturebased outdoor recreation opportunities such as walking, running, biking, etc. and will enhance access to the many varied natural resources located within Mitchell Park for environmental education and interpretation experiences. Mitchell Park also includes a major trailhead and connection to the City’s Greenway Trail System (Beverly Hills Trail) that will connect to Wirth Park as well as other City park and open space areas. Construction of the Mitchell Park trail system is scheduled to begin in the Fall of 2006 with completion anticipated by Spring, 2007. For questions, or additional information, contact the Parks, Recreation and Forestry office. 7 Parks, Recreation and Forestry Department Mosquito Control Program Update The City’s ongoing integrated mosquito management program (7th year) is based upon the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and includes the following primary components: of stormwater facilities (i.e. catch basins, inlets, etc.) and/or wastewater treatment facilities as identified and practical throughout the City in collaboration with the Department of Public Works. ADULTICIDING The adulticiding program includes regular treatments of community-wide parks and large group public gathering places as necessary and surveillance program indicates. A summary of the City’s Mosquito Control Management Program and maps of the treatment areas are available at the Parks and Recreation Office. Watch for additional updates on the website or through the news media. Treatment dates and ongoing information may also be obtained by calling the Mosquito Program Information Line at 262-796-6711. LARVICIDING The City has received a permit from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources to again apply biolarvicides to wetlands in the City for the control of disease (West Nile Virus) transmitting mosquitoes. The City’s program utilizes a consultant to perform ongoing population monitoring and surveillance as well as the application of the biolarvicide when mosquito larvae counts warrant treatment. The treatment areas are comprised of approximately 1,100± acres of public and/or private (with permission) major wetland/floodland tracts. The specific areas that are to be treated include: the welands adjacent to the Fox River between Springdale Road, running east and then north to Capitol Drive (including Mitchell Park and wetlands south of Voigt Soccer Park); Rolling Meadows Park and adjoining wetlands east to Pilgrim Road and north of Bluemound Road; Wirth Park wetlands (north and west of the park) and the wooded area of Wirth Park South; and the Butler Ditch wetlands corridor east of Pilgrim Road, running north and east of Capitol Drive to Hampton Avenue. Treatments will occur as conditions warrant and funding permits (i.e. 2-3 treatments per season). The biolarvicide that is utilized, VectoLex CG, is a natural occurring soil bacterium that is granular in form (i.e. not a liquid or spray) and will be applied by helicopter utilizing GPS navigational technology to assure accuracy in identifying treatment locations. There are no restrictions for public use of the treated areas. However, park users are cautioned to avoid utilizing the areas of the park while treatment operations are being conducted. The program will have the flexibility to be expanded to include surveillance/monitoring and possible treatment 8 MOSQUITO CONTROL AND WEST NILE VIRUS What Property Owners Can Do to Help Reduce the Risk A critical element of an effective integrated mosquito management program includes community outreach and public education and the practice of source reduction. Source reduction is a community effort to alter or eliminate mosquito larval habitat to prevent breeding wherever practicable. Residents and businesses are encouraged to engage in habitat alteration or elimination activities such as the proper disposal of used tires and the cleaning of rain gutters, bird baths, and unused swimming pools or any other types of vessels/containers/areas that will hold water and serve as potential breeding areas. In addition, other habitat alteration or elimination activities performed by the City include ongoing streambank clearing and restoration, catch basin and/or storm inlet cleaning, and container removal. The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) has prepared a Fact Sheet on “Mosquito Information for Homeowners” regarding West Nile Virus. Copies are available at the Parks, Recreation & Forestry office or can be obtained through the DATCP web site at http://datcp.state.wi.us. A variety of pamphlets, fact sheets, brochures and other materials are available at the Parks, Recreation and Forestry office that will provide information related to mosquito biology, personal protection, appropriate source reduction around the home, and the overall City integrated mosquito management program. NFL Flag Football — Grades 3 & 4 Registration began May 1 and will continue through July 7, 2006. No registration will be accepted after that date. The program is designed for boys and girls in 3rd and 4th grades. The league play will begin in September and continue into October. Registration forms are available at the Parks, Recreation & Forestry office. Corporate Olympics — July 19, 2006 This exciting new program will allow companies to compete with each other in an Olympic type event. The games are designed for groups of all ages and no athletic skills are needed to compete. Companies can promote teambuilding and a sense of light hearted competition. Teams will be compete against each other in a series of non-traditional fun-filled games such as the Hot Potato Race, Three Legged Race, Fill the Jug, Tug of War, Dodgeball, and an Obstacle Course. Imagine the boost in team spirit as winning teams of each game are awarded gold, silver or bronze medals. We create an atmosphere of fun while reinforcing the team building efforts of your company with this Olympic challenge. Be a part of the first annual Brookfield Corporate Olympics. For more information or to sign-up your teams contact Tina Pritchard, Recreation Programmer at (262)796-6675. New Opportunities in 2006 A variety of new activities and all the traditional programs will be available again this summer. The Parks, Recreation & Forestry Department Activity Guide is posted on our web site with details on all services, programs and special events. New this year includes: Kayaking Lessons, Kayaking Trips, Middle School Trip to Action Territory, Art Camp, Brookfield In Motion, Middle School Running Club, and Pilates Plus. Wirth Aquatic Center Pool Hours Dates Monday – Thursday June 5 – June 8 Monday – Friday June 9 – August 4 Aquatic Center 6 – 8 p.m. Zero Depth Pool 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. 1 – 4:30 p.m. 6 – 8 p.m. 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. 1 – 4:30 p.m. 6 – 8 p.m. Dates Monday – Friday August 7 – August 18 Saturday & Sunday June 3 – August 20 Aquatic Center 1 – 8 p.m. Zero Depth Pool 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. 1 – 8 p.m. 1 – 8 p.m. 1 – 4:30 p.m. 6 – 8 p.m. 1 – 8 p.m. Fees Daily Fees City Resident Adult (ages 18 & above) Youth (ages 3 – 17) Child (ages 2 & under) $3.25 $2.25 Free Season Pass Non Resident $5.00 $3.75 Free Family Pass Adult Pass Youth Pass City Residents Only $155.00 $65.00 $45.00 Morning / Evening Fees City Resident Adult (ages 18 & above) Youth (ages 3 – 17) Child (ages 2 & under) $2.00 $1.50 Free Non Resident $3.25 $2.50 Free NOTE: Wirth Aquatic Center will be closed on July 9, 2006 for an Elmbrook Swim Club Meet. 9 Community Development Department Pace of Development Slows As the following chart indicates, development activity in the City of Brookfield has continued, but at a declining average rate over the past six years. Over 4.1 million square feet of new non-residential development was approved by the City of Brookfield in the past ten years. Of the total, retail (31%) projects comprised the greatest percentage, followed by industrial (24%), office (24%) and institutional (21%) developments. After experiencing steadily increasing growth between 1996 and 1999, the rate of growth for non-residential development in the City has slowed considerably, from a high of 720,880 square feet in 1999 to an average of approximately 239,800 square feet for the past three years. Therefore, while growth and investment in Brookfield continues, the total 800,000 700,000 600,000 500,000 400,000 300,000 200,000 100,000 0 ’96 ’97 ’98 ’99 ’00 ’01 ’02 ’03 ’04 ’05 Total Annual Square Footage of Non-Residential Developm ents Built, 1996-2005 square footage of new development has been on a downward trend as illustrated in the attached chart. As vacant developable land is in short supply in Brookfield, redevelopment projects will assume a larger role in continued investment in the community into the future. Redevelopment projects typically are those where existing buildings are remodeled, refaced, expanded, or replaced, as opposed to new construction. Important Notice for Brookfield’s Businesses! The City of Brookfield Economic Development newsletter is now available via e-mail only. You may have recently missed out on the latest Economic Development News — important updates and critical business issues that affect your business here in the City of Brookfield — because we don’t have an email address on file for your business. To receive the next e-newsletter update and other important alerts, please provide us with an e-mail address at www.businessserious.com. There is no limit to the number of company employees who want to receive the electronic updates. Visit www.business-serious.com now. Select “I am already operating a business in Brookfield.” Click on “eNewsletter Sign-up” and submit your contact information. Sign-up now and you’ll be up-to-date in no time! Village Area Neighborhood Plan In January 2006, the Common Council adopted the Village Area Neighborhood Plan as an element of the Brookfield Year 2020 Master Plan. The neighborhood plan outlines the City’s vision and preferred development patterns for an area along both sides of Brookfield Road, generally bordered on the north by Burleigh Road and on the south by Milwaukee Avenue. The adopted Goal/Vision is: “The Village Area will include small businesses, multiple family and single family land uses; incorporate pedestrian, bicycle, auto, transit, and rail (freight and passenger) transportation in the variety of circulation options; and build upon a quaint, wood frame, historic, and architecturally diverse design aesthetic.” A new zoning district is being developed by the Plan Commission to guide mixed-use developments in the neighborhood planning area’s business district. For more information regarding the adopted neighborhood plan, please visit http://www.cityofbrookfield.com/plan.htm#6 or email questions or comments to Village@ci.brookfield.wi.us. 10 Assessor 2006 Revaluation Brookfield is currently conducting a City wide revaluation. Wisconsin law requires assessments to be within 10% of market value once in a 5 year period. Due to the active real estate market, Brookfield property assessments have fallen out of compliance since the last revaluation in 2001. By completing this revaluation we will not only meet the statutory requirements but will also ensure that properties are assessed in a fair and equitable manner. The following outline provides a summary of the revaluation process. 1) Analysis of data and sales by appraisers 2) Preliminary market values are calculated 3) Market values are field reviewed (viewing all exteriors — interior upon request) 4) Notices are sent to property owners — late summer 5) Owners have an opportunity to examine valuations 6) Owners may appeal values to Board of Review (property owners required to file intention of appearing 48 hours prior to the first Board of Review meeting, file objection form and provide evidence supporting property valuation at the Board of Review) 7) New values become basis for calculation of future taxes We are very aware of the anxiety that a revaluation can cause. Please note that assessment increases do not directly correspond to tax increases, as all property values are adjusted as part of the revaluation. We will be making every attempt to help you through the process and respond to your questions. Our goal is to comply with state laws, establish fair and equitable assessments, and make the process as painless as possible. We appreciate your cooperation as this required effort is completed. More information will be included in the assessment notices to be mailed in late summer, or Assessor’s Office can be reached at (262) 796-6649. Finance Second Half Property Tax Amounts on Waukesha County Web Page Are you ready to make your second-half tax payment that is due to Waukesha County by July 31st and you can’t find the original bill with the listed amount or you haven’t received the new bill from the County Treasurer? Your bill from the Waukesha County Treasurer should be arriving in mid-June, but you can log on to: www.waukeshacounty.gov and search by property address or tax key number to find the amount that is due and the payment options that are available. Follow these easy instructions: 1. Go to www.waukeshacounty.gov 2. Click on “Tax Listing” (on right side of screen). 3. Click on “Search By Tax Key” — if you know that number. • It appears on an old tax bill. • It is the number with the BR C prefix. Enter BR (space) C and the 7-digit number with no space… or 4. Click on “Search By Property Address” Enter the Property Address (i.e. 2865 James Street) Note: Type the property address without the street suffix — St Av or Ln. 5. Click “Submit Query”. 6. Click on the Tax Key Number which will be in the blue text. 7. Under Tax Listing Details, click on “View Tax Bill”. You will be able to view taxes, payments and balances. Second half payments are payable to Pamela Reeves, Waukesha County Treasurer and should be mailed to the Waukesha County Courthouse at 1320 Pewaukee Road, Waukesha, WI 53188-3873. Payments are NOT accepted at the City of Brookfield. 11 Brookfield Public Library Brookfield Public Library “Where to go when you want to know!” Library Hours Monday-Thursday . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday . . . . . . . . . . . 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday (October-May) . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 to 4 p.m. Phone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (262) 782-4140 www.brookfieldlibrary.com caregiver respite, and more. This program is designed for seniors and those who care for seniors. Are you “At Knits End”? Then join fellow knitters, both novices and experts, at Brookfield Public Library’s monthly knitting group. The group meets in the Library’s Community Room on the 3rd Tuesday of every month from 1:003:00 p.m. Shirley Grade from the Yarn House volunteers her time and expertise at this free program. June 20, July 18, August 15 Buzzzzzzzzzzzz You are invited to BUG, the Brookfield Users’ Group, a drop-in, hands-on session designed to provide you an opportunity to ask questions about computers, the Internet and email. We meet the first Friday of every month at 10:00 a.m. in the Community Room of the Brookfield Public Library. Join us as frequently as you can!! Our upcoming sessions: June 2, iBistro; July 7, Business Databases; August 4, Genealogy Hooray for more Hollywood! Back by popular demand! Film historian Dale Kuntz returns to the Brookfield Public Library on Thursday, July 13 at 2:00 p.m. in the Library’s Community Room. Join us for an afternoon of entertainment and memories of the silver screen at this free program. Basic Computer Class We are offering a Basic Computer Class in the Library’s Community Room. This hands-on class is for beginners and will cover many topics including: choosing the best computer for you; starting your computer; opening files; using a mouse; and saving your work. Space is limited. Please register for ONE of the following sessions. Friday, June 23, 10:00 a.m.; Monday, July 17, 2:00 p.m.; Tuesday, August 22, 10:00 a.m. Creature Feature Teens will go wild with this summer with the 2006 Teen Summer Reading Program “Creature Feature”. To register, stop at the Adult Reference Desk any time after June 5. The Teen Summer Reading Program is open to ages 13-18. In addition to the Reading Program and prizes, watch for special events just for teens this summer! Living Independently Longer Tuesday, June 6; Tuesday, July 11, 10:00 a.m. Hear about the opportunities available to assist the older population and the physically challenged remain independent in their homes longer. Learn what to consider for non-medical assistance—rides, companions, Hiking the Ice Age Trail On Tuesday, July 25, at 7:00 p.m., Pat Witkowski from the Ice Age Trail Foundation will be here to discuss the Ice Age Trail, only one of eight national scenic trails in the Monday Tuesday Friday Monday Wednesday Friday Tuesday Monday Thursday 2-3pm 7-8pm 10-11am 7-8pm 10-11am 2-3pm 10-11am 2-3pm 7-8pm Introduction to the Internet 1 Introduction to the Internet 2 Email Introduction to the Internet 1 Introduction to the Internet 2 Email Introduction to the Internet 1 Introduction to the Internet 2 Email Internet Classes All classes are taught hands on in the Community Room of the Brookfield Public Library. Please call 262-782-4140 to register. June 12 June 20 June 30 July 10 July 19 July 28 August 8 August 21 August 31 12 United States. Come learn about this unique Wisconsin trail from an expert who has hiked the entire 1,000 miles. “It’s All Elementary” Mystery Book Club Meets the second Tuesday of the month at 7:00 p.m.. June 13, Dead Irish by John Lescroart; July 11; August 8. Call the library for current book selections. Read it and Eat Join us for an evening of fine food and lively conversation on Tuesday, June 27. We will be reading The Tortilla Curtain by T. Coraghessan Boyle and enjoying a meal of Mexican food. Please register at the Adult Reference Desk of the Brookfield Public Library. Program. Little Fishies are 0-3 year-olds, Cubs are 46 year-olds and Critters are 7-12 year-olds. Anything is PAWSable when you Read (and you can win prizes too!) Sign up for SUMMER BOOK CLUBS for kindergarteners through sixth graders. SPECIAL PROGRAMS, storytimes, crafts and family events are planned throughout the summer: Pets, Cows, Magicians, Wild Animals, Fishing, Insects, Theater, Storytellers, Music, a Pet Show, a Mystery Party, and a Carnival! Don’t miss out on any of the fun! Contact the Children’s Department for more information. Bike Decorating for the 4th of July It’s a tradition! The Brookfield Public Library Children’s Department and the Brookfield Fire Department team up to promote a safe and fun Fourth. Meet us on Monday, July 3, 10:30-11:30 a.m. in the repair bay of the Brookfield Fire Department. Just bring your bikes and trikes and strollers and we’ll supply the streamers and stars! Stay for a short bike parade around Civic Plaza at 11:30 a.m. You’ll be all ready for the Brookfield Independence Day Parade on Tuesday, July 4th. Summer Reading — it’s for adults, too! June 5-July 31 For every finished title, your name will be entered into a drawing for fabulous prizes! See the Adult Reference Desk of the Brookfield Public Library for more information. Children’s Library Programs Children’s Summer Reading Program PAWS to read this summer! Sign-up for “Claws, Paws, Scales and Tales”, our Summer Reading Before You Mow — Did You Know That mulching your grass is actually better for it than removing the grass clippings? Many residents still bring grass clippings to the Recycle Center. Why not consider mulching your grass instead. It has the following benefits: ● Improves the fertility and health of your soil, ● Reduces the need for watering your lawn by helping the soil hold moisture and also reduces water runoff, ● Benefits the environment by recycling valuable organic resources, ● Saves you money by eliminating expensive bags and reducing the need for fertilizing your lawn, ● Gives you more free time since you don’t need to bag the clippings or haul them to the Recycle Center. In the end, don’t we all want a healthier looking lawn with more money in our pocket and more time to spend on leisure activities instead of yard work? Consider mulching your grass and enjoy the extra time you have this summer. 13 For Your Information Brookfield Farmers’ Market The 16th season of the Brookfield Farmers’ Market opened Saturday, May 6th. Located on the north parking lot of City Hall, 2000 N. Calhoun Road, the market is open Saturday mornings 7:30 a.m. to noon through October 28th. With farmers and merchants from throughout the state selling their Wisconsin grown/produced items, the farmers’ market is the perfect place to buy annuals, perennials, flowers, meats, cheese, bakery and fresh produce in season. Live music and demonstrations can be enjoyed throughout the season. Reap the benefits of the Free Frequent Shopper Rewards Program. Get your punch card & details at the market information table. Back by popular demand Market and More, the arts and crafts events will be held the third Saturday of the month through September. District 4 Information Meeting June 28, 2006 There will be an informational meeting for District 4 on Wednesday, June 28, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at City Hall. Alderman Steve Ponto and Alderman Mark Nelson will host the meeting to answer any resident questions related to District 4. The informational meeting will be held in the Council Chambers. District 6 Information Meeting August 9, 2006 There will be an informational meeting for District 6 on Wednesday, August 9, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at City Hall. Alderman Chris Blackburn and Alderman Jerry Mellone will host the meeting to answer any resident questions related to District 6. The information meeting will be held in the Council Chambers. Election Information Attention Students Going Away to College Fall Election Dates: September 12 and November 7, 2006 If you have just turned 18 years old or have moved into the City of Brookfield and have not yet registered to vote, it is important that you register prior to the next election season. Registering early will speed up the voting process on Election Day. You can register to vote at the Brookfield City Hall, weekdays between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., or at the Brookfield Public Library during their regularly scheduled hours. You will need proof of residency to register, such as a current driver’s license. All college students should register to vote prior to their departure for school if you intend to vote in your home community of Brookfield. If you expect to vote absentee, you will need to request an absentee ballot in writing. Registering to vote and requesting an absentee ballot in advance, prevents problems in receiving ballots in a timely manner. The Moving Wall is Set to Visit Brookfield The one-half size replica of the Vietnam Memorial Wall in Washington D.C. will be on display in Brookfield from September 27 through October 2. The Wall will be erected on Civic Plaza next to the Brookfield City Hall and will be on display 24 hours a day while it is here. Boy Scout Troop 246 (Hillside Elementary) is sponsoring this visit of the Wall to Brookfield. Please watch the newspapers for more information about this visit. Any questions about the visit of the Wall, or about volunteering to help bring the Wall to Brookfield, can be directed to Mark Nelson (milwnelson@aol.com). For more information about the Wall, go to www.themovingwall.org. Mailbox Repairs Why not rehab that mailbox now while the weather is nice? The vast majority of mailboxes that get damaged in the winter during plowing season are from the snow load, not actually getting hit by the plow. The typical problem is the box is loosely sitting on the pole because the nails or screws have rusted or come loose from rotting wood. Or, the post is rotting, rusted or not planted deep enough in the ground. The City does not replace mailboxes that are damaged by snow load. Be sure to call for utility locations to Diggers Hotline at 1-800-242-8511 before digging post holes! District 2 Information Meeting June 15, 2006 There will be an informational meeting for District 2 on Thursday, June 15, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at City Hall. Alderman Rick Owen and Alderman Bob Reddin will host the meeting to answer any resident questions related to District 2. The informational meeting will be held in the Council Chambers. 14 Disposal of Appliances Appliances have not been accepted at the Recycling Center for a number of years. Appliances will be picked up by our solid waste contractor, Onyx/Veolia, for a fee. Non-Freon appliances (stove, dishwasher, water softener, washer, dryer) will be picked up for $15. The fee for Freon appliances (refrigerator, freezer, air conditioner, dehumidifier) is $25. Call Onyx/Veolia at 262-3676040 to arrange pick-up or simply have the appliance removed by the company who installs the new one. ● Disposal of Paints Latex Paint 1.) Use it all up. Estimate correctly how much you need when you buy it. Average coverage rate is 400 to 450 sq ft per gallon. Apply a second coat or touch up. Paint your closets or cabinets. Try to donate it to someone who may use it; friends, neighbors, churches, high schools, theater groups, recreation departments or community service organizations. 2.) Dry out the paint outside by coating a flat surface of cardboard and recoating. For larger paint quantities put into a shallow cardboard box lined with a plastic bag and add some cat litter to speed up the process. Once dry, you can put out at the curb for the garbage man to pick up. Make sure you leave the top off so he knows it’s hardened and acceptable. 3.) A new product, “Waste Paint Hardener” is available at hardware stores. It hardens latex paint in minutes rather than days. It consists of crystals that are stirred into liquid to promote drying. When the paint solidifies, it can be discarded in the regular residential trash. Remember to keep the lid open so your garbage man knows he can accept it. It costs about $2 per packet and can be purchased at either Menards or Ace Hardware. Take it to the Recycling Center (see hours on the front page) ● Call a licensed yard waste hauler (paid for by property owner). A list of yard waste haulers can be obtained through the City Clerk’s Office at (262) 782-9650. The City of Brookfield does not endorse any of the licensed haulers. ● Start your own Compost pile. ● Burn: Allowed on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and when wind conditions do not exceed 15 miles per hour. Piles no larger than 2' in height and 5' in diameter, 25' from the front lot line, 15' from the side lot line, and 10' from the back property line. Household Hazardous Waste Collection Sites Menomonee Falls Onyx Environmental Services W124 N9451 Boundary Rd. (124th St.) (262) 255-6655 Hours: Mondays & Wednesdays 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturdays 8:00 a.m.-2 p.m. (No Holidays) Waukesha City of Waukesha Incinerator Building 900 Sentry Dr. (north of Sunset Drive, 1 block east of Fox River) Hours: 2nd and 4th Saturdays 8 a.m.-4 p.m. (No Holidays) and 3rd Wednesday each month May through October from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Muskego Jensen Environmental Mgt. W144 S6347 College Ct. (south of W. College Ave. (HH), just west of Sunnyslope) Hours: Every Saturday 8 a.m.-Noon (except holiday weekends) Oil-Based Paint Oil-based paints can be disposed of at any Household Hazardous Waste collection site. (See the available sites.) Trash Delay Trash collection will not occur on July 4th in observation of Independence Day. Pick-ups will be delayed one day following the holiday and Onyx/Veolia will be working on Saturday to finish the collection. Regular pick-up schedule will resume the following week. For more information regarding trash collection, call (262) 367-6040. Disposal of Yard Waste If you wish to dispose of yard waste, there are four ways in which to do so: WATCH CABLE CHANNEL 25 FOR ADDITIONAL BROOKFIELD INFORMATION. 15 Lawn Sprinkling To preserve our precious drinking water supply (groundwater in Brookfield), the City of Brookfield has regulations regarding lawn sprinkling. Even numbered houses may water only on even numbered days. Odd numbered houses may water only on odd numbered days. In an effort to conserve water, the Utility encourages homeowners to water only after 5:00 p.m. or before 9:00 a.m. on their respective days. In case of excessive heat or drought, the Water Utility may put sprinkling bans in effect. Your cooperation is appreciated. Watch local newspapers for updates. Stop the Leaks If your water bill seems high, it may be a result of leaks in your plumbing. Many people do not realize that a dripping faucet, leaking hose or toilet can waste thousands of gallons. Did you know that a 1/8-inch diameter leak wastes 2,500 gallons of water in just 24 hours? This type of leak left unattended can lead to a significantly higher water bill for the quarter. Water softeners that regenerate too often can also waste lots of water. Leaking water is not only wasted, but also needs to be treated. Please conserve and check your plumbing for leaks. It could save you money on your water and sewer bill. What can I do with Garlic Mustard? Garlic mustard, an invasive weed, is a threat to our native wildflowers, forests and wildlife habitat as well as a nuisance in our yards. Garlic mustard can not be composted, therefore it CAN NOT be brought to the city Recycling Center. It will not be accepted. The seeds survive the composting process and remain viable so we would merely spread the garlic mustard throughout the City if we accepted it at the Recycling Center. Hand pulled plants should be put in plastic bags and clearly marked as “Garlic Mustard” and put out with your weekly garbage for the city’s trash contractor to pick up. Do not mix any leaves, grass clipping or other weeds in with the Garlic Mustard or Onyx/Veolia can not take the bags, per State law. Additional information on Garlic Mustard can be found on the internet at http://www.uwex.edu/ces/wihort/. Click on Garden Facts (X-Files series) and scroll down to Garlic Mustard. Brochures can also be picked up at the Brookfield Parks, Recreation and Forestry Department or at the UW Extension Waukesha County office. PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID BROOKFIELD, WI PERMIT NO. 99 2000 N. Calhoun Rd. Brookfield, WI 53005 www.ci.brookfield.wi.us RESIDENT/BUSINESS BROOKFIELD, WISCONSIN