Issue City of Derby Community Newsletter February Seven File

Issue 11 City of Derby Community Newsletter February 2009 Seven File for 2009 General Election Seven candidates have filed for the 2009 General Election for the Derby City Council. Positions up for election are currently held by Jim Craig (Ward 1),Vaughn Nun (Ward II), Chuck Warren (Ward III), and George Arnold (Ward IV). A primary election will not be needed because four candidates did not file for any seat. Listed below are the candidates: • Ward I: Dan Billman, Jim Craig and Jerry Lucas • Ward II: Vaughn G. Nun • Ward III: Chuck Warren • Ward IV: Thomas Haynes and Shawn W. Riley Elections will be held Tuesday, April 7. For information on voter registration, visit www. sedgwickcounty.org/elections/ or call the Sedgwick County Election Office at 6607100. The deadline to register to vote is March 23. If you have questions, call Derby City Hall at 788-1519. Art Gallery @ City Hall The Art Gallery at City Hall exhibit features a variety of digital photography by three local photographers. The Art Gallery is located at 611 Mulberry Rd. This exhibit will be open through April 30, 2009. The three featured photographers include Cheryl Bannon, Ward III Council Member; Bill Fales, Derby Police Officer; and Barney Tull, Board of Zoning Appeals Board Member. The Art Gallery is open during regular operating hours at City Hall: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Art Gallery was established in November 2007 to feature and inspire the artistic talents of Derby residents, especially that of young artists, by contributing to community art appreAmericana ciation and providing by Cheryl Bannon a venue to exhibit artwork that also beautifies City Hall for residents, visitors, and staff. In addition to Milo field under a contributing to the watercolor sky by Bill Fales community’s appreciation of art, the Art Gallery aims to inspire artists by providing prominent space for public display of artSunset in Kansas work at City Hall. by Barney Tull The Art Gallery is a partnership between the City of Derby, Derby Schools, and the Derby Recreation Commission. For more information, visit www.derbyweb.com. Rain Sensors Required by July 1, 2009 a lower setting). In April 2008, the Derby City Council There are two types of rain sensors to passed an ordinance requiring mandatory choose from - wireless and hard-wired. use of rain sensors in automatic irrigation Rain sensors can be purchased at most area systems in Derby. garden centers. Costs vary between $20 and Beginning in May 2008, rain sensors were $60.You may also research products online required for all new residential and comor consult a landscaping or sprinkler system mercial irrigation systems. Residents and service provider. businesses who have existing Installation can be automatic irrigation systems performed by the prop(both well water and city erty owner or by engaging water) are required to install the services of a sprinkler a rain sensor by July 1, 2009. system service provide A rain sensor is an elec(who will charge a fee for tronic device that measures services). rainfall and interrupts the As a public water supirrigation cycle. The sensor Wireless Rain Sensor plier, the City of Derby is turns off automatic irrigation making water conservation systems when a predetera priority. Water is an increasingly valuable mined amount of rain has fallen. Sensors resource that should not be wasted. The City are mounted above ground in an open area outdoors in a location well-suited for gauging encourages residents and business owners to make water conservation practices a priority rain. as well. According to the ordinance, rain sensors If you have questions, call the City of should be set to turn off the automatic irDerby at 788-1424 or visit www.derbyweb. rigation system when 1/2 inch or more rain com. has fallen (although residents can adjust it to Derby’s vision is to be a community where dreams take root and thrive. city staff City Manager Kathy Sexton 788-3132 kathysexton@derbyweb.com City Attorney Phil Alexander 788-3132 philalexander@derbyweb.com Director of Operations Ted Austin 788-3132 tedaustin@derbyweb.com Director of Community Development Charlie Brown 788-6632 charliebrown@derbyweb.com Director of Finance/City Clerk Jean Epperson 788-3132 jeanepperson@derbyweb.com Director of Public Works Robert Mendoza 788-0301 robertmendoza@derbyweb.com Director of Economic Development Allison Moeding 788-3081 allisonmoeding@derbyweb.com Interim Police Chief Doug Chambers 788-1557 dougchambers@derbyweb.com Fire Chief Brad Smith 788-4435 bradsmith@derbyweb.com Message from the Manager City Tackles Wastewater Improvement Projects in 2009 A core service of your city government is to ensure a safe water supply. Ensuring this safety Kathy Sexton requires us to properly treat wastewater, which is what gets flushed or goes down the drains in our homes and businesses. In 2009, city leaders will engage in three projects to improve wastewater treatment. The first project is an upgrade to the Wastewater Treatment Facility (on south K-15) geared to enhance the manner in which bio-solids (sludge) are treated. Because we discharge treated water (effluent) directly into the Arkansas River, we must be careful to ensure the water is free of contaminants and meets federal and state safety requirements. The second project is a feasibility study to evaluate the cost and options for removal of nutrients (phosphorus, nitrate, and nitrite) from the water discharged into the river. This study is required by state and federal environmental regulators, and its results will map the way for future improvements at the wastewater treatment facility. The facility was built in phases in 1990, 1996, and 1998. For a city of Derby’s size and growth pattern, it is reasonable to expect an improvement project about every five years or so. The third wastewater project for 2009 is not for the treatment plant, rather is an addition to the collection system. Wastewater is collected from homes and businesses using a system of small pipes that feed into large main pipes (interceptors). The entire city is served by four interceptors. Extending one interceptor from Rock Road (just south of the Spring Creek bridge) east/ northeast roughly to High Park is needed to provide wastewater collection service to the city’s growing eastside housing areas. The project is critical to Derby’s ability to grow by adding housing units over the next decade. Such growth enhances the tax base and reduces the per-unit cost of maintenance. As for paying for these three projects, city leaders will engage in discussions in February and March about sewer fees, which comprise a large part of monthly utility bills. The discussion will include whether a new equity fee should be established to ensure that new development pays its fair share of providing infrastructure (treatment plant and interceptors). Also, city leaders will discuss whether the costs of the wastewater system should be paid entirely by user fees or partially by general city revenues (mostly from property and sales taxes). As these discussions occur, the important thing to remember is that your city is taking care of the basic services expected of any city - providing wastewater treatment and ensuring safe water supplies for us and for those downstream of our city. If you are interested in a tour of the Wastewater Treatment Facility or a presentation to your classroom or civic organization about these projects or about ways you and your family can help prevent pollution of the river, or if you would just like to learn more about the federal and state regulations the City must follow, contact Michael Wilson, Environmental Compliance Officer for the City of Derby, at 734-4249 or michaelwilson@ derbyweb.com. DCCPHC Sponsors After-Prom Event The Derby Community Coalition Promoting Healthy Choices is sponsoring its 3rd Annual After Prom event for Derby High School students. The event will be on Saturday, April 18 from 11:45 p.m. to 4:00 a.m. at All Star Adventures in east Wichita. The goal is to provide a safe and fun place for youth to go after attending prom. There will be games, prizes, snacks and transportation provided. In order to make this event a success (and keep the ticket cost low for students), the Community Coalition needs the community’s help. The Community Coalition is requesting cash donations, door prizes, food/snacks, and volunteer chaperones. If you’re interested, please call 788-3734 or email dccphc@hotmail.com. Your assistance will be appreciated by more than 400 high school students. City Hall 611 Mulberry Rd. Ste. 300 Derby, KS 67037 316-788-1519 www.derbyweb.com When you’re finished reading your Horizon newsletter, please share it with a friend, take it to a doctor’s office or recycle it. 2 Reduce, Reuse, Recycle www.derbyweb.com City Council City Looking for Volunteers for Boards, Commissions The City of Derby is looking for a few good volunteers to serve on its various boards and commissions. Applications are being received through April 10 at City Hall.You can download an application at www.derbyweb. com or call Carolyn Morrison at 788-3132. Here is a brief overview of each board/commission and its vacancies: ADA Advisory Board 2 vacancies, 2-year term Meets quarterly This board works towards full compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act with respect to City facilities and activities. Four of the six members must be disabled or representatives of an organization or group that provides services to the disabled. Construction Trades Board 3 vacancies, 3-year term Meets on an as-needed basis This board acts as an arbitrator between the Building Trades Official and aggrieved parties. The board also serves as a recommending body to the City Council for code adoption. Economic Development Board 2 vacancies, 2-year term Meets monthly This board acts in an advisory capacity to the City Council and reviews policies, programs and projects related to the City’s commercial development. Library Board 2 vacancies, 4-year term Meets monthly This board is an autonomous board that has the responsibility of establishing written policies, rules and regulations to govern the library property, operations and safety. Ordinance Review Advisory Board 2 vacancies, 2-year term Meets monthly This board reviews, evaluates and makes recommendations to the City Council with respect to amendments or repeal of existing ordinances of general applicability, and the adoption of new ordinances. Parks & Urban Forestry Board 4 vacancies, 2-year term Meets monthly This board is an advisory board that assists the Parks division of Public Works. The board provides support, ideas, educational programs and events to engage residents who use the park system. Board members are expected to participate in various events, including Arbor Day, Derby Garden Tour, and the Wichita Garden Show. Planning Commission 3 vacancies, 3-year term Meets twice a month This commission is responsible for the annual review of the Comprehensive Plan, it adopts and amends the Zoning Regulations and Subdivision Regulations, it holds hearings on annexations, zone changes and vacation requests, it reviews and approves plats and lot splits, and makes recommendations to the City Council. Board of Zoning Appeals 2 vacancies, 2-year term Meets on an as-needed basis This board, also known as BZA, considers various appeals, variances, conditional use requests, and replatted zoning matters. If you have additional questions sions, call City Hall at 788-1519. city council Mayor Dion Avello 788-0922 acmelithoenve@ aol.com Ward I Jim Craig 788-4449 jslscraig@ sbcglobal.net Jim Meidinger 788-2717 jmeidinger@cox.net Ward II Vaughn Nun 788-7269 vnun@earthlink.net Heath Horyna 253-3816 hhoryna@hotmail. com Ward III Cheryl Bannon 789-8356 lcbannon@cox.net Chuck Warren 788-2757 chuck@ derbyhomesales.com Ward IV George Arnold 788-8654 mariona@ onemain.com Mark Staats 788-9056 staatsforderby@ sbcglobal.net Trash and Recycling Update Changes in the way curbside recycling and trash pick-up happens in the City of Derby will be coming soon. The City is seeking proposals from area trash haulers and expects to make a decision about trash and recycling later this spring. Watch for upcoming announcements about changes in services coming this summer. Watch Derby Channel 7 or visit the City website, www.derbyweb.com/trash-recycling.cfm. Youth Advisory Board Overview The Derby City Council established the Youth Advisory Board two years ago to ensure that a youth voice is included in the Council’s decision-making process. The YAB acts as an advisory arm of the City Council to ensure attention to youth issues and the participation of youth in addressing those issues. The mission of the YAB is to: • Identify youth issues for the City Council to consider. • Respond to youth issues forwarded from the City Council. • Be a part of the progress by actively contributing to improving Derby for all young people. Current members include Benjamin Foster, Courtney Frantz, Collen Goff, Kristin Grooms, Chris Kellenbarger, Rorie Milner, Steven Schaaf, Tyler Underwood, and Regan Williams. New members are appointed each school year. If you are interested in serving on the Youth Advisory Board for the 20092010 school year, contact Janae’ Prunier-Billman at City Hall, 7881519. Meetings are held on the first Wednesday of each month at Derby High School. The Derby City Council meets on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall, 611 Mulberry Rd. Meetings are broadcast live on Derby Channel 7. You may also contact the City Council at (316) 788-3132. Derby’s vision is to be a community where dreams take root and thrive. 3 channel 7 City Council Meeting Live: 2nd & 4th Tuesday of the month, 6:30 p.m. Rebroadcast: Sunday, Wednesday & Friday 2:30 p.m. Thursday & Saturday 7:00 p.m. Sedgwick County Commission Meeting Rebroadcast Tuesday & Saturday, Noon USD 260 Board Meetings Live: 4th Monday of the month, 6:30 p.m. Rebroadcast: Friday & Sunday, 7:00 p.m. Senior Services & Public Library Experience the Flint Hills Experience the wonder of the Flint Hills including two of the eight wonders of Kansas on April 30. The day will begin with a bus tour of the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, and a tour of the 1880s historic limestone ranch house, barn, and outbuildings. We will enjoy a homestyle meal at the Emma Chase Café before touring the newly remodeled Chase County Courthouse. The courthouse is the center-piece of the community. Built in 1873 out of native limestone, the courthouse is the oldest operating courthouse in Kansas and one of the oldest west of the Mississippi. The last stop will be at the Pioneer Bluffs Historical District. Tour the 1908 home and three beautiful barns built between 1872 and 1915. The all-inclusive trip is $50 per person. Caregiver Meeting The Derby Community Foundation, the Wichita Senior Companion Program, and Derby Senior Services are cosponsoring a monthly Caregiver Resource & Support Group meeting. Meetings will be held at the Senior Center, 611 Mulberry Rd., every third Wednesday at 2:00 p.m. Professional speakers will address topics related to care giving duties. Respite services will be provided for loved ones. Caregivers are encouraged to bring their loved ones free of charge. This class is funded by a grant from the Derby Community Foundation. For more information or to make reservations for respite services, call Dana at the Wichita Senior Companion Program office at 685-1821, ext. 521. Music Theatre of Wichita Performance contact info The Derby Horizon is a publication of the City of Derby’s Communcations Team. If you have questions or comments, contact Public Information Officer Kristy Bansemer at 316-788-1519 or kristybansemer@ derbyweb.com. Mailed correspondence should be sent to: Derby City Hall Attn: PIO 611 Mulberry Rd. Ste. 300 Derby, KS 67037-3533 Join the Senior Center for a “red carpet affair” as nationally recognized Wayne Bryan and staff from Music Theatre of Wichita will perform songs from their summer line-up on April 16 at 3:00 p.m. at the Senior Center, 611 Mulberry Rd. The theme is “Tony Award-Winning Movies.” Don’t miss this opportunity to see firsthand what the summer season holds at Music Theatre. If you like, dress in your glamorous ball gown or as your favorite movie star. Door prizes will include tickets for the Music Theatre summer shows. The cost for the event is $3 per person. Library Construction Update - exterior wall framing Construction crews have been - concrete ceiling on community hard at work on the new Derby room (the community room Public Library. During the month will also serve as a storm of January the building began to shelter) take shape - metal when the decking on steel beams roof were put in - interior place and electrical work bework gan on the - instalcommulation of nity room parking lot (block lights room on To right side see live of photo). construcCrews Top: Photo taken in January 2009 tion of are workBottom: Architects rendering of completed Library the Library, ing on the visit www. following derbyweb.com/camera.cfm. The areas: - exterior concrete columns and camera is mounted on the roof of City Hall. support canopies on the front, northwest and east sides Library Book Club Are you an avid reader that would like to share your thoughts on the books you read? If so, the Derby Library’s Joyful Page Turners Book Club is for you! The club meets on the fourth Thursday of the month at 6:45 p.m. at the Library, 611 Mulberry Rd. Upcoming featured books are: March 26 The Zookeeper’s Wife by Diane Ackerman April 23 Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte May 28 Heart in the Right Place by Carolyn Jourda To sign up, drop by the Library or call 788-0760 with questions. derby library Location 611 Mulberry Rd. Suite 200 (316) 788-0760 www.derbylibrary.com Hours Monday - Thursday 9:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Friday & Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sunday 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. 4 www.derbyweb.com Community Development Census Update Reflects Growth The U.S. Census Bureau recently began providing demographic estimates to mid-size communities through its American Community Survey (ACS) program. This program provides a glimpse into community changes in between decennial census events, allowing for a better understanding of trends in housing, social, economic and demographics across the country. The program uses ongoing surveys of a small population sample. Many communities use the data to help determine where to locate services and allocate resources. While these estimates are not for official use, they do provide clues to the ways in which communities are changing over time. The estimates released in December 2008 are drawn from data and surveys taken in 2005, 2006 and 2007. When compared to the numbers reported by the 2000 Census, it’s clear that Derby continues to thrive. For example, the ACS estimates suggest that Derby’s population has grown to 22,152, an increase of almost 25% since 2000. With that, the number of households has grown to 7,500 and the average size of a household has increased slightly from 2.85 persons to 2.93 persons. Housing units, which include single-family, multi-family and apartment units, have increased to a total of 7,942 units from the 6,322 reported in 2000. Median home values have also grown by 28%, from $104,700 in 2000 to an estimated $133,900. HOME Grant Receiving Applications Thanks to a new program, eleven Derby homeowners were recipients of home repair funding through the HOME Rehabilitation Grant Program in 2008. Using a $225,000 grant from the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation, these homes received repairs ranging from new roofs and siding to repaired electrical and plumbing systems. The HOME program is designed to increase the energy efficiency of homes in Derby’s older neighborhoods while providing crucial maintenance to keep the houses in good condition. If you live in the target area from Meadowlark to 87th St. S. from Woodlawn to the west city limits, you may be eligible for the program. Household income cannot exceed 80% of the Sedgwick County median; for a two-person household, that amount is $39,250. Application forms are available at City Hall or online at www.derbyweb.com. development update Hampton Inn Drivers making their way into Derby on Rock Road are greeted with a view of the three-story building that will become a Hampton Inn. The 63-room hotel is slated to open early this summer, and the hotel will begin taking reservations in mid-April. The facility will offer a mix of standard rooms and suites, plus a pool, fitness center, business center and a small meeting space. The hotel will offer complimentary hot breakfast, free high-speed internet access, and its unique Cloud Nine Hampton Bed Experience. Goodwill Goodwill Easter Seals celebrated its official groundbreaking in January 2009 and construction is underway, with an anticipated opening this fall. Located at 1247 N. Rainbow Drive behind Applebee’s, the Derby store will be Goodwill’s 14th in the Wichita area. Goodwill provides education, training and employment for people with disabilities and other barriers to employment. Derby Marketplace The following businesses are set to open by June 2009: Dillon’s Marketplace, Dress Barn, Famous Footwear, Buffalo Wild Wings, Spec’s Eyewear, and Eric Fisher Salon. This will bring the square footage of open tenants in Derby Marketplace to more than 325,000 SF and an approximately 95% occupancy of the constructed buildings in the shopping center. Additional businesses are expected to be announced later this year. Backflow Prevention Devices Required for Lawn Sprinklers In August 2004, the City of Derby revised its water cross-connection control rules to comply with federal and state law to require backflow prevention devices (BPD) for lawn sprinkler systems. Cross connections are points at which the drinking water supply is interconnected with hazardous liquids, gases or other unsafe substances. The rules and regulations were established by the Kansas Department of Health & Environment in accordance with the Federal Safe Drinking Water Act. These rules can be found in the 2006 International Plumbing Code (Section 608). BPD are mechanical devices that protect drinking water from hazardous contaminants found in lawn sprinkler systems (herbicides, pesticides, fertilizers, etc.), which may originate in the soil around sprinkler heads. BPD are installed where the water line comes into your house to prevent water from flowing backwards. When drinking water is pulled through the main line (when you use your sink, toilet, etc.), it can siphon water through one of your branch lines (sprinkler system line). When the water is siphoned, it pulls whatever is in the line with it. In a sprinkler system, contaminants can be siphoned through the drinking water system through sprinkler heads. A BPD prevents water and contaminants from getting through. Residents and businesses with a lawn sprinkler irrigation system connected to the drinking water supply are required to have a BPD. If you have a private well not connected to the drinking water supply, you are not required to have one. Please call the City at 788-1424 to update your records. You are required to have a Certified Backflow Installer/Tester inspect your BPD annually. On completion of the inspection, your contractor should submit your test results to the City. If you do not have a lawn service contractor, a list of qualified providers may be obtained by calling the City at 7881424. Derby’s vision is to be a community where dreams take root and thrive. 5 Crime Stoppers of Derby The Crime Stoppers program is a nationwide forum which citizens can use to safely and anonymously report information to law enforcement about crimes. Communities organize citizen boards that work in partnership with the national organization. Funding for cash rewards is raised through donations from businesses and individuals. Crime Stoppers of Derby pays cash rewards up to $1,000 for anonymous information that leads to an arrest, the recovery of stolen property, or seizure of illegal drugs. The success of Crime Stoppers depends on anonymity. Anyone who reports a crime through Crime Stoppers is given a code number. If the tip leads to law enforcement action that qualifies for a reward, the tipster can call the Crime Stoppers number and provide their code number. If a reward is approved, arrangements will be made for the award to be picked up without the identity of the tipster being known. Crime Stoppers of Derby has been a partner in solving a number of crimes in Derby. Rewards have been paid out in amounts ranging from $50 to $1,000 as a result of tips provided through the hotline. If you have information on a crime that has occurred in Derby, we encourage you to call Crime Stoppers of Derby at 788-TIPS (8477). Public Safety How to Prevent Auto Thefts Over the past several years, Derby has seen significant increases in cases of auto theft. Over the past 14 years, 295 vehicles have been reported stolen within our city limits, an average of 21 vehicles a year. In 1996, only three vehicles were reported stolen. That was an exceptionally good year in terms of having a low number of vehicle thefts. But, in 2007 Derby saw a spike in auto thefts, finishing out the year with 42 stolen vehicles. While these numbers vary from year to year, the overall trend indicates an increase in auto thefts. The good news is that residents can take easy steps to prevent and reduce the likelihood of their vehicle being stolen. Vehicles are usually stolen while they are running and keys in the ignition. During winter months, thieves will sometimes drive or walk through neighborhoods looking for vehicles left running in driveways. Car thieves may also wait in the parking lot at convenience stores and other businesses for a motorist to leave their vehicle running while they are inside the store. When a car is already running, it only takes a few seconds for a thief to drive away. Here are some other tips to consider. • Lock your vehicle and take your keys with you – never leave your vehicle running unattended. • Never hide a second set of keys in or on your vehicle. Thieves know where to find them. Keep a spare key in your wallet or purse. • Never leave your wallet, purse or car title in your vehicle. This makes it easier for a thief to dispose of your vehicle. • Park your vehicle inside a locked garage, if possible. • Don’t be complacent if you own an older vehicle. Parts for older vehicles are in high demand. For more information on auto theft prevention, contact the Derby Police Department at 788-1557. Jacobs Named Firefighter of the Year Long-time volunteer firefighter, ant and was tasked with training Mark Jacobs, was recognized as new volunteer firefighters. the City of Derby Firefighter In recent years, Jacobs has of the Year at taken on the the January 27 role of Safety City Council Officer, ensurmeeting. Jacobs ing proper is also the VFW practices at Firefighter of emergencies the Year. and training Jacobs has sessions. been a volunJacobs’ son, teer firefighter Drew, recently for 29 years joined the and currently Volunteer Fire serves as the Department. Mark Jacobs (left) poses with Fire secretary of the Chief Brad Smith. Other new volDerby Fireman’s unteer firefightRelief Association. In the mid 90s, ers are listed below. Jacobs was promoted to Lieuten- Sparky the Fire Dog... Reminds residents about the “no burn” policy in Derby. Illegal burning can put you, your property and your neighbors at risk. Here’s what you need to know: - Open burning is prohibited. - Garden waste, trash or other items may not be burned on a BBQ grill or chiminea. - There are a few exceptions to this rule that have strict rules (construction debris, recreational fires, such as a camp out, ceremonial fires, such as a VFW flag burning). These type of fires require a permit from the Derby Fire & Rescue Department and notification of burning. - Violators could be charged with a misdemeanor, resulting in a fine of up to $100 and up to 30 days in jail. New Volunteer Firefighters Justin Carruthers Dan Fenn Drew Jacobs Gabe Kinney Josh Pater 6 www.derbyweb.com Public Works Visioneering Wichita Meeting Set for Derby Visioneering Wichita is proceeding with its next step in the community planning process. A series of meetings this spring will include a meeting in Derby on March 2 at 7:00 p.m. at City Hall, 611 Mulberry Rd. The meeting is titled “Dream and Listen.” It is part of the R3 program (Review, Revise and Refocus). The public is invited to attend and provide input on the strategic plan. This process of Reviewing, Revising and Refocusing will connect residents more than they already are to the region’s long-term strategic plan, and to determine what has been accomplished and what actions need to be taken in order to move forward. Visioneering Wichita is the comprehensive long-range planning initiative for south central Kansas. Partners include the Wichita Metro Chamber, City of Wichita, Sedgwick County, the City of Derby, and a number of cities, organizations, businesses, and individuals who participate in 15 strategic alliances designed to improve the regional economy and quality of life. calendar of events Wichita Garden Show Century II March 4-8 Derby Schools Spring Break March 16-20 Easter Sunday April 12 Arbor Day Celebration April 23 at 6:00 p.m. High Park “Planting the Seeds of Tomorrow Today” www.arborday.org Rock River Rapids Opens May 25 www.rockriverrapids.com Derby Days May 29, 30 & 31 www.derbydaysks.com Derby Garden Tour May 30 City Seeking Input on Parks During imthe first proved? quarter • Do you of 2009, have any the Parks other & Urban concerns English Park playground Forestry about Board is parks in seeking input from residents general? on their neighborhood parks There are two more town through a series of town hall hall meetings this spring, each meetings. one focusing on a different park. This input process is a followThe meetings will follow a similar up to the Parks Master Plan that format and will be held on the was adopted by the City Counfollowing dates: cil in September 2008. Parks & • March 19 at 6:30 p.m. Urban Forestry Board members Derby Recreation Center will take public comment and Focusing on Riley Park compile the information received • April 16 at 6:30 p.m. to guide the specific projects Swaney Elementary Commons slated for each park. Focusing on Hand Park Town hall meetings were held Public input is a vital part of in January (Crane and English the City’s planning process and is Parks) and February (Duck greatly appreciated. If you are unCreek Park). able to attend a public meeting, Questions asked of particibut would like to provide input pants include: about the parks, please con• Do you use the park? tact Tamie Snow, Public Works • What do you like or dislike Coordinator, by calling 788-0301 about the park? or via email at tamiesnow@ • How could the park be derbyweb.com. Wichita Garden Show: March 4-8 The City of Derby will have a booth at the 42nd Annual Wichita Garden Show on March 4-8 at Century II Convention Hall. The booth is being coordinated by the Public Works Department and Parks & Urban Forestry Board. The 2009 theme is “The Giving Garden.” Your backyard may give you and your family a way to save money this summer by providing a favorite vacation spot or by providing food for your family. Planting and working in the garden can also be a family project.Your goal this year might be to make your outdoor living space a spot of beauty, rest and relaxation. It can be the perfect spot to enjoy a meal, and fellowship with family and friends. Ticket prices are as follows: Adults (16 and up): $11 Students (10-15): $5.50 Children (5-9): $2.50 Children (0-4): FREE For more information, visit www.wichitagardenshow.com. High Park Chip Site The Chip Site will return to its seasonal hours in April. April - October Monday thru Friday 7:15 a.m. - 3:45 p.m. Saturday 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. The Chip Site is located in the northwest corner of High Park, 2700 E. Madison. The city will accept trunks/limbs up to 10 inches in diameter. Only tree limbs are permitted - grass clippings, leaves, and thorny brush are not allowed. Free mulch is available to residents - it can be picked up during regular operating hours. As you use up conventional products, consider replacing them with more environmentally friendly options - household cleaners that use essential oils for fragrance, laundry detergents formulated for cold water (which saves energy needed to heat water), and cloth napkins to replace disposable ones. You’ll reduce your chemical exposure and create less trash. Green Tip Derby’s vision is to be a community where dreams take root and thrive. 7 city meetings ADA Advisory Board Quarterly on Mondays @ 4 p.m., City Hall Board of Zoning Appeals case-by-case basis Thursdays @ 7 p.m., City Hall City Council 2nd/4th Tuesdays @ 6:30 p.m., City Hall Construction Trades Board case-by-case basis on Tuesdays, City Hall Economic Development Board 3rd Monday @ 5:30 p.m., City Hall Water Company Board 4th Tuesday following the City Council meeting Library Board 4th Wednesday @ 7 p.m., Derby Library Ordinance Review Advisory Board 3rd Tuesday @ 6 p.m., City Hall Parks & Urban Forestry Board 2nd Thursday @ 11 a.m., City Hall Planning Commission 1st & 3rd Thursdays @ 6:30 p.m., City Hall Senior Services Advisory Board 1st Wednesday @ 1 p.m., Senior Center Youth Advisory Board 1st Wednesday @ 10 a.m., High School News Briefs Derby Days Sizzles in 2009! Viva Derby Days! This The Derby Days Sundown year’s event will be held on Parade will kick off the fesMay 29, 30 and 31 and there tivities on May 29 at 6:30 p.m. will be a definite fiesta feel Special events include the to the celebration! The 2009 ShopFest and Kid Fest activilogo, highlighted by two cheerties on May 30 and the Derby ful jalapeno peppers, was deDays Dog Show on May 31. signed by Kimberly Welch of Musical entertainment will be iDesign Creative Group. The planned each evening. Derby Days Board and ComA special event for 2009 is mittee agree that the logo the Derby Days Salsa Cookwww.derbydaysks.com Off. Scheduled for May 30, the provides the perfect backdrop for the fun activities planned for Cook-Off will offer the chance this year’s event. for local salsa enthusiasts to compete for top Derby High School will be the main site awards in several categories. for the event, with most activities taking Volunteers and sponsors are needed for place on the grounds of the high school. The many of the Derby Days activities. The most Ottaway Carnival will be on site, as well as up-to-date information is available at the the Derby Days Food Court. Derby Days website, www.derbydaysks.com. Wastewater Improvement Projects Backflow Prevention Devices Library Construction Update what’s inside Rain Sensor Requirements Art Gallery @ City Hall Firefighter of the Year 2009 General Election City of Derby 611 Mulberry Rd. Derby, KS 67038 Derby Days Derby’s mission is to create vibrant neighborhoods, nurture a strong business community, and preserve beautiful green spaces. PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID DERBY KS PERMIT NO. 611