Eden Prairie residents might notice an increase in after-dark activity in their city through March as Eden Prairie and USDA experts quietly cull the deer population to manage animal numbers. The initiative, officially dubbed the city's annual deer management program, kicks off at dusk when deer roaming tendencies peak, aiming to keep their numbers in check and possibly combat-related issues such as landscape damage and vehicle collisions.
With temperatures plummeting, Eden Prairie households are being encouraged to save money by making their homes more energy-efficient. This cost-reduction tip comes in the form of a Home Energy Squad visit, a service backed by Xcel Energy and CenterPoint Energy, which helps pinpoint ways to trim those heating bills. These energy specialists not only inspect but also install energy-saving devices, setting Eden Prairie residents on the path to potentially significant savings this winter.
In a more personal approach to community relations, Police Chief Matt Sackett and his officers are providing an opportunity for face-to-face dialogue at the last Coffee with a Cop for this year. The event aims to foster better police-citizen understanding and is scheduled for the morning of Dec. 19 at Starbucks in Eden Prairie Center. The Eden Prairie Crime Prevention Fund is footing the bill for the coffee and hot beverages.
Meanwhile, the City's team has expanded, with David Keys stepping in as a full-time recreation specialist. Keys comes with experience under his belt, having served in a similar part-time role in Eden Prairie and a two-year stint as a youth recreation coordinator in neighboring Chanhassen. He's charged with bolstering the city's adult athletic programs, a job sure to keep him just as active as the community he'll be serving.
As Christmas approaches, so do altered schedules. Eden Prairie's City Center will be locking up for the holiday, closing its doors on Dec. 22 and Dec. 25. Residents looking to get ahead of the game can check the full holiday schedules for various City facilities online, ensuring no one's left out in the cold during the festive season.
For more information on these programs and city facility holiday hours, visit the Eden Prairie City website at edenprairie.org.
