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- December 1, 2022
December 1, 2022
Building Inspection
Snow & Ice Removal
Snow and ice must be removed from sidewalks within 24 hours after the snowfall ends. Sidewalks that are walkways for school children should be cleared as soon as possible.
A & C. Sidewalks and curb ramps shall be clear of snow and ice to a minimum of 4 feet, regardless of the source of accumulation. In the event ice has formed in such a manner that it cannot be removed, the sidewalk should be sprinkled with sand and/or salt.
B. Bus stops are cleared by City of Sun Prairie Public Works.
D & E. While mailboxes and fire hydrants are not required to be cleared we highly recommend clearing these areas.
If a sidewalk is not cleared by the required time, the property owner will receive one warning per winter season. After that, a citation of $67.30 will be issued for a 1st violation, $92.50 for a 2nd violation, and $155.50 per violation thereafter. In addition, beginning with the 2nd violation of the season, City crews will remove the snow and ice from the sidewalk. Property owners will be billed for this service, and unpaid bills will be added to the owner’s property tax bill.
If you are planning on a vacation or other absence from home, please make sure to make arrangements for someone to take over for you while you are gone. Residents who require time extensions to complete clearing of sidewalks may request such by contacting the Building Inspection Division.
If anyone has a question or concern regarding sidewalk snow removal, the Building Inspection Division is ready to help. You can reach us by email at buildinginspection@cityofsunprairie.com or by phone at (608) 845-1184 or visit the City’s website at www.cityofsunprairie.com for news and updates. If you are reporting locations which may be in violation of the city snow removal ordinance, please be prepared to leave enough information so that your complaint can be processed in a timely manner.
City Clerk
Thinking about running for local public office?
Have you ever thought about running for local public office? There are six public offices up for election in April 2023 for the City of Sun Prairie. The seats that are up are:
• Mayor (2-year term)
• 1 Alderperson in each of the four districts (2-year term)
• Municipal Judge (4-year term)
Candidate information packets are available now. The packet is posted on our website and hard copies are available at the front desk of City Hall, located at 300 E. Main St. Nomination papers may be circulated beginning December 1, 2022.
For more information or to watch a short training video on running for local office please visit: https://www.cityofsunprairie.com/233/Candidate-Information
Community Development
City of Sun Prairie Awarded $2 Million to Build Affordable Housing with Habitat for Humanity of Dane County
The City of Sun Prairie has been awarded $2,231,821 from the State of Wisconsin Department of Administration (DOA) through a Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery Program (CDBG-DR) to build 10 new affordable single-family residences for low- to-moderate-income families.
Nationally, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) provides federal funding to states through CBDG programs. Wisconsin uses this federal funding to provide affordable housing, suitable living environments, and expand economic opportunities to underserved individuals and families. Dane County was one of the counties impacted by the flooding in 2018 and qualified for disaster recovery assistance. The City will partner with Habitat for Humanity of Dane County to create much-needed housing opportunities.
Over the last two years, Sun Prairie’s housing vacancy rate has been under 5%, pointing to a tremendous housing demand and an extreme need of additional housing. The 2020 U.S. Census estimates the population of Sun Prairie is 35,967 and the DOA Demographic Services Centers projects the 2025 population will be 37,880 and the 2030 population will be 40,830, which is a 5% increase in the next few years and a 13.5% increase by 2030. The rapid growth and low vacancy rate contribute to making affordable housing options even more limited.
These grant-funded homes will be built for families earning between 30 to 60 percent of Dane County’s median household income and are unable to qualify for most traditional financing options. Each family will invest between 275 to 425 hours of “sweat equity” building their homes alongside volunteers and receive a 30-year mortgage with a 0% interest rate and monthly mortgage payments capped at 30 percent of the family’s gross income. This makes homeownership affordable and sustainable for Sun Prairie residents.
“This funding will provide so much more than walls and a roof – it creates a brighter economic future for families of modest means right here in Sun Prairie,” Habitat for Humanity of Dane County CEO Valerie Renk said, “We’ve seen firsthand how homeownership can break the cycle of generational poverty, as
well as racial and income barriers, like no other.”As Sun Prairie continues to experience this growth, the City will continue to explore the ways it can address both current and future housing challenges.
As Sun Prairie experiences the rapid growth, the City will continue to address housing current and future housing challenges.
“With Sun Prairie being amongst the fastest growing communities in the state, it is our priority to create pathways to affordable and accessible housing,” said Becky Binz, Housing and Equitable Development Planner. “These funds provide an incredible opportunity to supply housing for underserved individuals and families in our community.”
To learn more about the CBDG-DR program, please visit https://doa.wi.gov/Pages/AboutDOA/CDBG_Disaster-Recovery.aspx
About Habitat for Humanity of Dane County
At Habitat for Humanity of Dane County, families are offered a hand up, rather than a handout. Through our volunteer network, generous donors, and sales from our two Habitat ReStores, we’re helping families achieve strength, stability and self-reliance to build a better life through shelter. In Dane County alone, one in eight people lives in poverty, including 16% of all Dane County children. Learn more by calling 608.255.1549 or visit habitatdane.org.
THANK YOU!
It was so good to see the community out in high spirits celebrating the holidays! Saturday, November 26 was a packed day in Sun Prairie filled with many activities. Thank you for your attendance as well as the support you gave to Sun Prairie's small businesses!
Holiday Fun!
Community Spotlight
Sun Prairie Performing Arts Center Shows!
Sun Prairie East High School Performing Arts Presents: A Christmas Carol
- December 1, 2, 3 at 7:00pm
- December 3, 4 at 2:00pm
A ridiculous but surprisingly faithful rendition of the Dickens classic. Ebenezer Scrooge is haunted by the ghosts of Jacob Marley, Christmas Past, Christmas Present, and the Spirit of Christmas Yet to Come. Faced with his own mortality and the evil results of his misanthropic, miserly ways, Scrooge is redeemed, reconciled with his nephew and his neighbors, and becomes a second father to his assistant’s son, Tiny Tim. Ludlam finds the humor as well as the pathos in this Victorian melodrama.
Parks, Recreation and Forestry
Recreation Department
The Sun Prairie Parks, Recreation & Forestry office is open: Monday – Friday 8:00am-4:30pm, or by phone at (608) 837-3449 or by email at rec@cityofsunprairie.com.
Announcements:
Office Closed
Parks, Recreation, and Forestry office will be closed on the following days:
• December 23rd and December 26th for Christmas
• December 30th and January 2nd for New Year’s
Winter/Spring Rec Connection Guide coming soon!
Winter/Spring Rec Connection guide is now out for viewing! Registration begins on Tuesday, December 6th at 9:00 a.m. To view the guide on online, visit rec.cityofsunprairie.com.
Now Hiring – Program Instructor Thursday After School Program
“Recreation is for Everyone” Scholarship form!
Come join us for fun and enriching programs available for the whole family! Requesting a scholarship is easier than ever with our NEW online form! This easy, streamlined form provides "no questions asked" financial access to SPPRF programs.
In order to request the Recreation is for Everyone Scholarship you must be a resident of Sun Prairie or enrolled in the Sun Prairie Area School District.
For questions or assistance contact us at 608-837-3449 or visit Recreation is for Everyone Scholarship Information
- Scholarships cover 50% of enrollment fees on most programs
- No formal documentation is required for approval of financial assistance
- Online submission with approvals within 2 business days
Fitness Flex Pass
Not sure what fitness class is right for you? Enjoy the flexibility to try them all with our new Fit Flex Pass. Click here to purchase a 5 or 10 class pass, Fit Flex Pass - Sun Prairie Parks, Recreation & Forestry (cityofsunprairie.com), passes never expire!
Upcoming Events
5th Annual Holiday Light Decorating Contest
Registration Deadline: 12/8/2022
Registration:
*Online registration is open until 11:59 pm on Friday, December 2.
*By registering using either method, you are granting the City of Sun Prairie permission to use your photo of your house for future publicity.
Judging:
Judging will be performed by the Contest Advisory Board the week of December 12. The exterior of your home should be illuminated between 5:00 pm and 9:00 pm during those nights. Judging will be based on creativity, appearance and effort.
Judges will score using the following criteria:
• Creativity – Originality, number of materials used, homemade vs. commercially made
• Appearance – Color coordination, balance, overall attractiveness, overall WOW factor
• Effort – Time and energy put into preparation and presentation
Awards:
Winners based on the Contest Advisory Board's judging criteria will be notified by Friday, December 16. Entries will also be posted on Facebook and listed on the City Website for a community judging process to take place to award for 'People's Choice'.
*Best First-Time Entry (based on scoring criteria)
*Judge’s Choice (based on in-person scoring criteria)
*People’s Choice (online voting)
All winners will also receive an official City of Sun Prairie ‘Holiday Lights Contest Winner’ yard sign
Contest Rules
• Entry deadline is Friday, December 2 at 11:59 pm
• Participants are required to submit up to two (2) photos of their home at the time of registration that will be posted for community judging (People’s Choice Award). Photos can be emailed to rec@cityofsunprairie.com
• Home must be located within the Sun Prairie City School District (please check with us if you’re not sure)
• Contest is limited to what can be seen from the street side of the house/business at night
• People and live animals are not allowed as part of the display
• All participants are encouraged to keep their house decorated through December 31 so the community may view and enjoy!
• In-person judging will take place the week of December 12 between the times of 5:00-9:00 pm
o Winners based on in-person judging will be notified by December 16
o Online judging will be open until December 19 and winner will be notified after it closes
Upcoming Programs Not to Be Missed:
December 5th – December 28th
6:10 – 6:40 p.m.
Registration Deadline: 12/5/2022
Join Ryan Grimes Karate staff during this more advanced karate class!
*Pre-requisite: Participants should have completed the Beginner course prior to joining this Continuing course.
Note: Each additional family member after the first registered is $25.
December 5th – December 28th
6:50 – 7:50 p.m.
Registration Deadline: 12/5/2022
Join Ryan Grimes Karate staff for Kobudo! Class will involve ancient karate weapons such as Staff and Nunchaku.*Pre-requisite: Participants should have completed the Continuing course or the Teen/Adult class prior to joining Kobudo.
Note: Each additional family member after the first registered is $25.
December 5th – December 28th
8:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Registration Deadline: 12/5/2022
Join Ryan Grimes Karate staff in this karate class that welcomes both beginners and intermediate/advanced skill levels!
Note: Each additional family member after the first registered is $25.
Saturday, December 10th
1:30 – 3:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: 12/2/2022
Create your own winter or Christmas themed snow globe out of modeling clay, mason jars, glitter and sequins! You don't want to miss out on this workshop as snow globes will last for years to come and become a family favorite holiday decoration to bring out year after year!
Saturday, December 20th
5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: 12/6/2022
No need to make a mess at home when you can come to the Westside Community Services Building and decorate cookies for Santa! Pre-registered families will decorate a dozen yummy cookies for Santa...and may even snack on one for themselves. The fun will starts at 5:30 pm with a story read by Mrs. Claus, followed by cookie decorating and maybe even another surprise or two.
Each family will have have a special table prepared just for them that will include cookies, frosting, and a variety of sprinkles and other supplies needed for decorating. The program will end at 7:30 pm.
Fee is per1 dozen cookies.
Food allergy alternatives are not available for this program.
Monday, December 26th – Thursday, December 29th
9:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Registration Deadline: 12/19/2022
Don't miss out on this creative four-day Winter Break Art Camp! Each day we'll create a variety of art projects and media exploration including: acrylic paints, watercolor painting, sculpture with air clay and modeling clay, drawing and more through themes of snow, winter and arctic landscapes.
Thursday Early Release Afterschool Programming (previously TGIT)
Thursdays, 1:30-5:00 p.m.
December 1-22- $95
Elementary School Site Locations:
Meadowview
Northside
Token Springs - NEW
Beginning in the 2022 – 2023 school year, Sun Prairie Area School District Elementary Schools will be dismissing students at 1:30 pm on Thursday afternoons to accommodate professional staff development. In an effort to provide high quality afterschool childcare to our growing community, Sun Prairie Parks, Recreation & Forestry, the Sun Prairie Area School District and Community Schools are putting forth a collaborative effort to provide a community partner-based afterschool program. This program will aim to provide families with safe, affordable and engaging childcare on Thursday afternoons for students in kindergarten through 5th grade.
Childcare will be available from dismissal at 1:30 pm until 5:00 pm. We will pilot this program, starting in September, at three elementary school locations and will have programming at all nine elementary schools starting in January 2023. Program partners will be brought in monthly to provide fun and exciting programming ranging from chess to sports to ukulele lessons.
If this program isn’t offered at your school initially you do have the option to attend any site, but transportation will not be provided at this time. Registration will be by month for September -December. Please click “register” to be added to our interest list to be notified when enrollment begins and when new sites are added to this program.
For more information visit rec.cityofsunprairie.com and the digital version of the Rec Connection which will be updated prior to the start of the school year. Please contact Emily Rebarchek, erebarchek@cityofsunprairie.com, or call 608-837-3449 with any questions.
Public Safety
Autism Forum
Winter Safety Awareness
You may have noticed that there has been snow lately. Well, here are some helpful reminders as more in on the way in these next few months.
Important Tips 
These are important tips for anyone but may be especially important for drivers who will be driving in winter conditions for the first time.
- Plan your travels and check weather reports. Tell people where you are travelling.
- Be gentle with both the accelerator and brake. Do not use cruise control. Do not be overconfident in four-wheel drive vehicles.
-Carry your emergency kit in the back seat of the vehicle (in case the trunk freezes)
- Keep your gas tank at least half-full to avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines.
- Put together a home winter emergency kit including first-aid supplies, water, etc.
- Check your carbon monoxide detector.
- Make sure your pets have shelter and plenty of food and water. They should be brought inside when the temperatures reach 30°F with wind chill.
You can find a wealth of winter information by visiting the National
Weather Service website out of Milwaukee: https://www.weather.gov/mkx/winter-wx-awareness
Public Works
Transportation Improvements on the Horizon
We have some exciting transportation and pedestrian safety improvements on the horizon to share with you! There are four projects that are set to receive funding from Greater Madison MPO as part of the 2023-2027 Transportation Improvement Plan for the Madison Area and Dane County.
Sun Prairie Public Library
2022 Report on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Click here to review the report.
Children’s & Teen Services
Tuesday, December 6 10:00-11:30 a.m. and 3:00-5:00 p.m.
Wednesday, December 7 10:00-11:30 a.m. and 3:00-5:00 p.m.
Make winter crafts in the Community Room with us! Geared for ages 3-11. A variety of different crafts will be offered -- each child can make up to three projects to take home. Morning craft sessions are geared towards preschool age children; afternoon craft sessions are geared towards school age children; all sessions have something appropriate for all age levels. Children under 8 need an accompanying adult. No registration.
Wednesday, December 7 4:00 p.m., on Zoom
For those in 3rd-5th Grade. We each read our own book! After you’ve requested a book from the website, you’ll be invited to join an optional meeting on Zoom where we talk about the books!
Learn more on here: https://www.sunprairiepubliclibrary.org/young_critics_book_club
Friday, December 9 5:00-7:30 p.m.
Join us for a winter party with a Harry Potter theme! Enjoy some crafts and activities, and entertainment by DJ Mr. Alexis, dancing, and light refreshments! Costumes Encouraged! Hogwarts Robes and Fancy Dress attire welcome! This program is generously funded by the Friends of the Sun Prairie Public Library.
Wednesday, December 14 4:30-5:15 p.m., Conference Room
Our Tween Book Club is intended for readers entering grades 6-9. We will discuss lighter topics than our Teen Book Club. For our December meeting we will discuss “Illegal” by Eoin Colfer and Andrew Donkin. Copies of the books are available to check out at the Children's desk.
Registration is required, please register on our Events Calendar at https://sunprairie.librarymarket.com. Teens in 6th - 12th grade are eligible to register. Questions, concerns, or if registration has already closed but the event has not yet happened, please email Melissa at mcarollo@sunlib.org.
Adult Services
Sunday, December 11 2-3 p.m., Community Room
Please join us for this celebratory seasonal concert by Madison Area Flue Club! The Flute Club choir is a year-round choir of 20+ adult flutists performing on piccolo, alto, bass, and contrabass flutes. You'll be surprised to learn how many different kinds of flutes there are - and how they come in many shapes and sizes! This evening is funded by the Friends of Sun Prairie Public Library.
Tuesday, December 13 6:30-7:30 p.m., Community Room
Join us for a creative evening with master artist and Wisconsin Public Radio host Ruthanne Bessman and discover the art of origami. You'll explore shapes, forms, and colors in this hands-on workshop to create gift boxes and winter star ornaments. Registrants must be at least 10 years of age and all materials will be provided free of charge. Space is limited. To register, please visit our Events calendar at www.sunlib.org. This evening is funded by the Friends of Sun Prairie Public Library.
Sun Prairie Area Chorus: Christmas Caroling
Sunday, December 18 2-3 p.m., Community Room
Come get in the holiday spirit with Christmas carols from the Sun Prairie Area Chorus! Founded in 2012, the chorus is a collaborative group of individuals who simply love music. The mission of the chorus is to welcome, entertain and inspire audiences while performing music the whole family will enjoy! This event is generously funded by the Friends of the Sun Prairie Public Library.