2016 Fall Newsletter - Laserfiche WebLink

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j +CITY C)F LHUU EST. 1906 ■ Hugo City Hall 14669 Fitzgerald Avenue North Hugo, MN 55038 651-762-6300 www.ci.hugo.mn.us Fire Department 651-762-6362 Washington County Sheriff's Office 911 Non -emergency: 651-439-9381 IN THIS ISSUE... A Word from Public Works 2 Housing Update 2 Sixth Annual Tour de Hugo 3 Comprehensive Plan Update 4 Economic Development 4 Improvement Updates 5 Get Out and Vote 5 Water Rebate Program Update 6 COMMUNITY NEWS, INFORMATION AND EVENTS Ask the Mayor Unfortunately, I can't say I have played Pokemon Go myself, however, I do think I can still weigh in on the impacts I have experienced from the game and how great it has been for Hugo. Community Mobilization — I have seen people of all walks of life exploring all corners of the community. I am happy to see people rediscovering parks and trails or notcing a part of the City for the first time. Especially in the summertime it is very enjoyable to see everyone outside, strolling among the com- munity. Just remember to look up from your phone while you're walking! Community Engagement — Police officers are in- teracting with the City's youth and kids are making new friends. The reason? Pokemon. Whether it's informing one another of the latest catch or the nearest Pokestop, people are working together. The concentrated influx of Pokemon players in one place may seem strange, but the opportunity to collaborate and communicate with others in the public creates bonds that develop a strong City. What impact do you think it has on our community? Using City Amenities — Pokemon Go changes the way the citizens see and use the community. Almost all of our City parks have Pokestops, which creates a large increase in utilization of our parks and trails. Whole families are enjoying longer and more frequent visits, which is exactly what the parks are intended for! The large increase in use of the City's hubs are seen across the board. Whether there's a Pikachu in Lions Park or a Squirtle at the Post Office, I love seeing the residents of Hugo out exploring the numerous amenities the City has to offer. Water Conservation Tips 6 Awareness of the Future — In my childhood, there were never any smart phones or Pokemon to catch. Initially, the concept seemed confusing and foolish — why do kids need a game to get outside and Updates from the Fire Chief 7 enjoy themselves? That question may never be fully answered, but the Pokemon trend is a statement to Sheriff's Office Update 7 the growth and necessity of technology and the impacts it can have on a community. Today, it is an Good Neighbor of the Year 8 augmented reality game, but tomorrow it could be a different technological advancement entirely. Pokemon Go provides a look into the future and the way residents can interact with the City around Movie Night in the Park 8 them. Although the Pokemon Go craze may pass, I think the residents of Hugo will discover some new favorite spots along their journeys. I hope they continue to utilize all that Hugo has to offer and maintain their new friendships long after the Pokemon are gone. Tom Weidt, Mayor If you have a question you would like to ask the Mayor, send it to info@ci.hugo.mn.us. Your question could be featured in the next newsletter!