Jan feb2015 vision final

The Vision

Wentzville Missouri – USA

The Crossroads Of The Nation

Your Source for City of Wentzville News

January/February 2015

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New Year, New You With an improved facility to better serve you, you’ll want to join us in 2015 at Progress Park! Don’t miss these New Year specials.

• Three-month trial pass for only $49* • 12-month pass for only $99* ― New pass holders that sign up by Jan. 31, receive 13 months for the price of 12 months. New pass holders will also receive a free gift!

• Current pass holders: Refer a friend, and when they join you’ll get a one-month extension on your current annual pass.* • Stop by Progress Park to get a one-week free trial.* * Prices for three- and 12-month passes are for Wentzville residents only. * Maximum two-month extension may be earned for current pass holders. * Trial pass is for new customers only. One-week trial per person; 16 years or older. Must be redeemed by Jan. 31, 2015.

YARD WASTE PICKUP Yard waste pickup resumes the first full week in March. Find more information on the back cover.

With a few clicks, residents can report, photograph and provide documentation to ensure that neighborhood issues can be resolved quickly. Timely reports allow the proper City department to promptly address issues including abandoned vehicles, missed collections, tall grass, potholes and more.

Users can also browse through frequently asked questions and answers, review the status of previously entered requests, and more.

From the home screen users can choose to make a request, search through previously made requests, or find answers using our frequently asked questions section.

Both iOS and Android users can download the app free from their respective mobile app stores. Search terms: Wentzville, Wentzville Concern Center, Wentzville App.

Candidate Filing Closes Jan. 20 Candidates can continue filing for the elected municipal offices that will appear on the April 2015 ballot, until the filing period ends at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2015. Candidates will need to file at City Hall, located at 310 W. Pearce Blvd.

Positions open for filing are one Alderman from each of the three Wards and the Municipal Judge. All positions are for two-year terms.

City ordinances state that candidates running for Alderman must be at least 18 years old, a citizen of the United States, a resident of the City of Wentzville for at least one year prior to the election, and reside in the Ward for which they are filing.

According to City ordinances, candidates running for Municipal Judge must be a licensed attorney, qualified to practice law within the state of Missouri, and a resident of St. Charles County at the time of his/her election. The Municipal Judge does not need to reside within the City of Wentzville.

If you would like more information about the duties and qualifications for serving on Wentzville’s Board of Aldermen, call the City Clerk’s office at (636) 639-2010.

INSIDE: New Downtown Parking, Snow Removal, Parks & Rec Job Fair and More!

Good to KNOW Snow Removal Tips from Public Works With snow and ice season upon us, Wentzville Public Works is gearing up to keep City roads clear and safe ― whatever Mother Nature sends our way. Below are a few tips for residents: •

Prepare mailboxes for heavy snow. As snowplows pass through residential neighborhoods clearing streets, mailboxes may suffer from the weight of the displaced snow. Before we’re knee deep in snow, inspect your mailbox and post to ensure it is securely planted with the face of the mailbox at least nine inches from the curb. The City will repair mailboxes accidentally hit by the plow itself, but repairing mailboxes that succumb to the weight of plow-driven snow is the property owner’s sole responsibility.

• Safety first! Keep fire hydrants clear of snow. Property owners should clear snow around fire hydrants to ensure fire fighters have quick access to hydrants in the event of a fire.

• Observe winter parking restrictions. Parking is prohibited on City streets following a snowfall forecast of five inches or more to allow plows easy access. It is always a good idea to remove parked cars from the roadway during snow events greater than two inches.

• Store snow to right side of your driveway, as you face the street. Don’t shovel snow into the street, and be sure to keep the left side of the driveway clear of snow (as illustrated in the sketch above).

Snow piled on the left side of the driveway or in the street is pushed back into the driveway when the plow comes by.

Downtown Committee: New Name, Same Purpose Wentzville’s Downtown Economic Development and Historic Preservation Committee has changed its name. The committee is now known simply as the Downtown Committee.

Wentzville’s Downtown Committee is an advisory committee with the purpose of advising and making recommendations to Wentzville’s Board of Aldermen as to the transformation of Wentzville’s downtown district into a community destination point, while striving to protect, enhance and revitalize the City’s historical heritage.

The committee meets monthly at City Hall at 310 W. Pearce Blvd. The committee hopes more residents and business owners will become involved in Wentzville’s downtown preservation and revitalization efforts – which remind us of both the history and the future of our great city.

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Make plans to attend an upcoming meeting:

• Jan. 15 • Feb. 19 • March 19

2014: A Look Back

Mayor’s MESSAGE

What makes our corner of the St. Louis area stand out? What is it about our nearly 20 square miles of city limits that makes a difference? It’s our residents and our businesses.

It’s also, of course, our City employees – from the Public Works employee plowing snow to the Wentzville Police officer that maintains our safety – our employees make a difference every day. It’s also our partnerships with surrounding municipalities and with agencies such as the Wentzville Fire Protection District, the Wentzville School District, WASSI and all the other crucial agencies that aid our residents on a regular basis. It’s the Wentzville Board of Aldermen and all of the other fine men and women who serve on other City boards and commissions. It’s you, it’s me. We are the ones that make Wentzville what it is. We are the past, present and future of Wentzville.

The state of our City is sound and our future is bright. We are on the cusp of big things Mayor here in Wentzville and we are looking forward with hope, pride and innovative thought.

Nickolas Guccione This place is our home, our community, our City.

We know Wentzville is great, but others have taken notice too – we’ve been recognized several times this year alone – first, as the #2 place for homeownership in Missouri and we made the list of the top 50 safest cities in Missouri. When people choose to move to Wentzville they are choosing more than just a house, they are choosing a home in a safe city. They are putting down roots and becoming part of our growing community.

We’ve worked hard to build a community that offers safety and security, exemplary schools, affordable and diverse housing, and expanding employment opportunities.

Speaking of expansion, Wentzville is growing by leaps and bounds. The City’s building permits continue to rise, with 600 new single-family permits in 2014. In the last year, Wentzville has gone through a positive growth spurt, adding new jobs, making room for retail, service and entertainment venues, and building new residential and commercial spaces. Here’s an overview of some of the great things we’ve accomplished in 2014.

Completed installation of a new 12-inch water main on Main Street, within the Village Center.

The Board of Aldermen established six strategic priorities, which address various community needs, in order to move the City forward.

Elected City, county and state officials worked diligently with staff from all parties to make the safety improvements to the Highway 61 corridor a reality. With the cost-share agreement in place ― between the City, St. Charles County and MoDOT, for the over $12.5 million project ― the consultant and project team are now working on project design.

Secured $12,367,000 in County Road Board funding to match $5,992,000 in City transportation funds to build portions of David Hoekel Pkwy Phase 2 in 2015.

Many new businesses have opened in Wentzville this year including Dick’s Sporting Goods, 6 North Café, Ground Effects and Faurecia. Several new businesses will open here in early 2015.

The City has entered into a lease with Century Link, which will add new, free parking downtown. Read more about it on page 7.

With all this growth, it’s no wonder jobs have also been on the rise. Wentzville has seen more than 2,000 jobs created this year alone.

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Upcoming EVENTS Sunday

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Park Board Meeting, 7 p.m.*

Coffee Talk with the Mayor, 12:30 p.m.*

City Offices Closed

Planning and Zoning, 6 p.m.*

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Board of Adjustment, 6:30 p.m.*

Board of Aldermen, 6 p.m.*

Board of Aldermen, 6 p.m.*

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Park Board Meeting, 7 p.m.*

Coffee Talk with the Mayor, 12:30 p.m.*

City Offices Closed

Planning and Zoning, 6 p.m.*

Board of Aldermen, 6 p.m.*

Board of Adjustment, 6:30 p.m.*

Downtown Committee, 6 p.m.*

* These events will be held at City Hall (310 W. Pearce Blvd.). All meetings are subject to change.

Please check the Calendar of Events at www.wentzvillemo.org for the most up-to-date information.

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Saturday

From the BOARD Growth in Wentzville Brings Jobs, Options In the last year, Wentzville has gone through a positive growth spurt, adding new jobs, making room for retail, service and entertainment venues, and building new residential and commercial spaces. The City itself is also bracing for growth. With the opening of two new City parks on the horizon and the announcement of a new City Hall facility – the City is welcoming growth and change.

Companies such as Serco and GM, among others, provide jobs and economic benefits to Wentzville.

Board of Aldermen: Linda Wright (Ward 3), Robert Hussey Serco held a job fair in October, in its search to fill 900 (Ward 1), Michael Rhoades (Ward 2), Mayor Nick Guccione, new Wentzville-based positions. Recently, GM also Chris Gard (Ward 2), Cheryl Kross (Ward 1) and Mike Hays (Ward 3). announced it will begin a third shift in the spring of 2015 ― this shift will bring with it 750 new jobs.

For Wentzville residents, growth means new options – new places to eat, to shop and to just have fun. Dick’s Sporting Goods, which opened on the Wentzville Parkway at the end of October, brought with it more than 75 retail jobs. Business is booming across town in the Wentzville Bluffs development, as well. A new restaurant – 6 North Café – opened its doors this fall, and the Planet Fitness facility is on schedule to open in early 2015. Other restaurant and retail spaces are expected to develop in the Wentzville Bluffs, and, don’t forget the new entertainment venue – B&B Theaters – which is also opening in the coming months.

Alderman Linda Wright speaks of Wentzville’s growth, “For Wentzville, growth means considering our rural

roots of which we are so proud, restoring and celebrating our historical treasures and providing a community that entertains and delivers essentials a diverse citizenry seeks. This chance is a honor that we cannot take lightly and one that requires careful planning to ensure the growth fits with Wentzville’s vision and character. This is such an exhilarating and significant time for every resident!”

We’re certainly growing here in Wentzville ― what started as a small railroad town, is now a booming economic epicenter poised for growth. We can’t wait to see what’s coming next!

Construction at 6 North Café, which opened at the Wentzville Bluffs last fall.

How do I ... Find Agendas & Minutes?

On our website, you can easily find agendas and minutes for a variety of City meetings, including the Board of Aldermen, Board of Adjustment, Board of Appeals, Park Board, Planning and Zoning, Stormwater and more.

Visit bit.ly/agendasandminutes and make a selection from the meeting group list.

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Experience WENTZVILLE Youth Baseball & Softball League Sign Ups Youth baseball and softball leagues sign ups are now open for children ages 7 and older; the cost is $85 for residents and $105 for nonresidents. These leagues are designed for children of all abilities – the league has three levels of play depending on the skills of the child/ team. Practices begin in March with games beginning in April or May, depending on the age level.

Team registration and individual registrations are accepted – all children registering individually will be randomly placed on draft teams. The registration deadline is Feb. 8. Coach pitch T-ball is available for children ages 5 and 6

Daddy’s Little Sweetheart Dance The memories will last a lifetime when you attend this special evening. This three-hour event includes dinner, dancing, games, a craft and more. Each couple will receive a photo to remember this special evening. This event is for girls ages 3-12. Escorts for the girls may be dad, grandpa, uncle, adult older brother, or a special friend of the family.

The per-couple event price is $50 for residents and $63 for nonresidents. There will be two separate times to attend this fun event, which will be held at the Progress Park Center. Make plans to attend on Friday, Feb. 6 or Saturday, Feb. 7. Each evening event starts at 6 p.m. ($25 for each additional guest, child or adult.) Please register early to reserve your spot.

Want to have fun while earning a little extra cash this summer? Then don’t miss our job fair!

What: Wentzville Parks and Recreation Job Fair When: Friday, Feb. 13, from 2-6 p.m.

Where: Progress Park Applications will be accepted for temporary summer positions for lifeguards, concessionaires, day camp counselors, recreation aides and umpires. Applicants should be prepared to be interviewed and age 16 or older by May 1, 2015. Starting pay varies depending on position and experience.

Applications can be filled out in advance by downloading the form from the City’s website at bit.ly/WentzvilleHR. Applications will also be available to complete at the job fair. No early appointments will be provided.

For more information, call the Parks and Recreation Office at (636) 332-9236.

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Municipal Code Book Updates Wentzville’s online Code Book has been updated through Ordinance 3425, Oct.22, 2014. This most recent update includes a new format with new search capabilities. To access the Code Book, visit http://ecode360.com/WE3476. You can also visit the City’s website at www.wentzvillemo.org and select “Find City Documents” on the left and then choose “Municipal Code” from the Quick Links bar.

The company that provides this service also offers webinars to guide you through how to navigate and search the Code Book. To view the upcoming schedule of seminars, visit www.generalcode.com/ events/webinars.

Did you KNOW?

Wentzville residents interested in applying, may access a form at bit.ly/board_application.

If you have questions or would like a hard copy of the application, call the City Clerk’s office at (636) 327-5101.

Additional Downtown Parking Thanks to the foresight of the Mayor and Aldermen, the City has entered into a lease agreement with Century Link to offer free parking in downtown Wentzville. The lease agreement is for five years, with two possible threeyear term extensions. This parking lot will provide easy access to downtown businesses, including the Wentzville Historical Society caboose, the soonto-be-complete brewery and more.

In early 2015, and as weather permits, the City will begin minor improvements to the parking lot surface. The City is also under contract with a construction firm to begin improvements to the sidewalks adjacent to the parking lot.

New Business: The BEDROOM STORE • 1215 WENTZVILLE PKWY.

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Wentzville Missouri – USA

The Crossroads Of The Nation

310 W. Pearce Blvd.

Wentzville, MO 63385

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID Wentzville, MO Permit #14

Yard Waste Pickup Resumes in March

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ard-waste pickup for the City of Wentzville will resume the first full week in March and continue through the last week of December.

Residents who have not canceled the service and were receiving the service when it ended last year will automatically be put back on the list for 2015. Residents who begin the service on March 1 may cancel the service in December of that year. A 10-MONTH COMMITMENT IS REQUIRED. Residents who receive yard-waste pickups cannot stop it and then start it later in the season. Because of our daily pickup schedule, residents who receive yardwaste pickup service can put their yard waste out on the same day they put out their trash and recycling.

Everything should be placed at the curb by 6 a.m. on the day of your regular collection day.

Residents can place their yard waste in brown recyclable bags or in a trash can. Residents can rent a yard-waste cart for $2 a month, or they can use their own can. If residents use their own can, it must be clearly marked “Yard Waste” on both sides. To make sure drivers can easily identify their Yard-Waste cans, its best that residents use City-supplied “Yard-Waste Only” stickers, which are available at Wentzville’s Public Works facility at 200 E. Fourth Street.

Yard waste includes leaves, grass clippings, or limbs and branches. Limbs and branches should not be more than four feet long, 18 inches in diameter, or weigh more than 40 pounds. Also, bundles should be tied with a natural twine or other biodegradable binding material.

Yard waste DOES NOT include dirt, sod, rock, concrete, asphalt, lumber, tree stumps or logs over 18 inches in diameter.

If you have questions about fees, recycling, yard waste, or regular sanitation pickup, please call the Public Works Department at (636) 639-2049 or visit the Public Works section of the City’s website at www.wentzvillemo.org and select “Solid Waste and Recycling” from the Resident Services tab.

Holiday Collection Schedule

The week of Jan. 1, only Thursday and Friday trash pickups are affected by the New Year’s Day holiday. That week, Thursday pickups will move to Friday, Jan. 2 and Friday pickups will move to Saturday, Jan. 3.

January’s Martin Luther Jr. holiday and February’s Presidents Day holiday will not affect your pickup schedule. If you have questions, call Public Works at (636) 639-2049.