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- November 2023
November 2023
The City of Sun Prairie has completed an Organizational Equity Audit in partnership with Prism Technical LLC and BDP & Associates.
The City of Sun Prairie is pleased to announce the completion of an Organizational Equity Audit, an extensive study undertaken to assist the City in advancing the values of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). This work has been completed in partnership with Prism Technical LLC and BDP & Associates.
The Equity Audit includes recommendations for the organization and its direct city services based on three priority areas:
· Building a more diverse and inclusive organization for employees and the community in which the City serves.
· Identifying blind spots and processes that perpetuate systemic injustice
· Identifying current successes, areas for improvement and recommendations/strategy in next steps for making concrete improvements in the areas of DEI.
This milestone follows a year and a half of examination, divided into two critical phases. Part one concentrated on evaluating internal DEI practices within employee culture and processes, while part two involved engaging the community to collect input on equitable city service delivery. Both phases required extensive qualitative and quantitative research, including stakeholder interviews, focus groups, surveys, and continuous review of policies, procedures, and processes.
The final report offers a comprehensive overview of the audit's goals, the applied methodology, key insights obtained from the study, and recommendations derived from this information, all aimed at achieving long-term impact. City staff have presented this information to City Council and will now initiate internal assessment and prioritization of recommendations, followed by implementation.
To access the final report and review how the City is living out its commitment to DEI, please visit www.cityofsunprairie.com/DEI
Due to funds received from the Childcare Dream Up Grant, the City of Sun Prairie was able to disburse funds to local childcare providers!
In May 2022, the City of Sun Prairie received a grant from the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF) to address the growing need for child care in the community. The grant, totaling $75,000 from the DCF Dream Up Grant and an additional $75,000 from the City's ARPA grant, will be disbursed to local child care providers.
As part of the grant initiative, the City and community stakeholders worked on a strategic supply-building plan with three primary goals:
- Develop a consortium of child care providers in Sun Prairie, collaborating with regional resources to support local child care options and regulations.
- Enhance the local child care workforce through strategic partnerships, awareness campaigns, and advocacy efforts.
- Establish a rolling grant program administered by the City to boost and retain child care providers in Sun Prairie.
The Dream Up Core Team encountered challenges, including the capacity of local child care providers and team members. With an urgent need to utilize DCF Dream Up Grant funding by October 31, 2023, the City disbursed one-time stipends to regulated child care providers within the city limits. This move aims to alleviate capacity issues and create a significant, high-impact change in the local child care industry.
This effort is part of the City's commitment to support and expand child care options for families in the Sun Prairie community.
For specific questions about this initiative, please contact Kristin Grissom, Director of Parks, Recreation, and Forestry at kgrissom@cityofsunprairie.com
The Sun Prairie City Council adopted the Sun Prairie in Motion Active Transportation Plan.
In a significant step towards enhancing the city's transportation infrastructure, the Sun Prairie City Council officially approved the Active Transportation Plan on Tuesday, September 19, 2023.
The approval follows a meticulous evaluation process, which included a comprehensive review by the Transit Commission on September 6, 2023. The Bicycle Subcommittee of the Transit Commission also dedicated significant attention to scrutinizing the plan's contents and ultimately confirmed their accuracy in portraying the Active Transportation vision for the City of Sun Prairie.
The Active Transportation Plan aligns with the City's commitment to facilitate safer and more convenient walking, biking, and rolling within the community. It plays a pivotal role in guiding city officials and staff in determining the optimal locations for constructing new bikeways, pathways, and sidewalks. Additionally, the plan focuses on directing investments into areas with the greatest need for improved infrastructure.
The plan underscores the importance of addressing areas in the older part of the city that lack adequate and secure spaces for pedestrians, cyclists, and other non-motorized transportation methods. By highlighting specific streets where sidewalks, bike lanes, and paths are of utmost importance, it aids in prioritizing these improvements in the allocation of public right-of-way.
The Sun Prairie in Motion Active Transportation Plan can be accessed in detail at the following link: Active Transportation Plan Document.
For specific inquiries about the plan, please contact Alexander Brown, Transportation Coordinator, at abrown@cityofsunprairie.com.
Sustainable Sun Prairie Podcast to be Released on November 7!
Brace yourselves, Sun Prairie! A fresh addition is set to fill your airwaves. Presenting "Sustainable Sun Prairie: Conversations for a Greener Community," a podcast dedicated to fostering eco-conscious living and championing local sustainability initiatives right here in Sun Prairie. This new show aspires to educate, empower, and engage the community in the pursuit of sustainable practices.
Scheduled to make its debut on Tuesday, November 7 at 8 a.m. on the waves of 103.5 The Sun, WLSP-LP, the Sustainable Sun Prairie podcast promises to be a source of knowledge and inspiration for all.
The goal is to disseminate content that provides practical insights, expert interviews, and community success stories. With a captivating range of topics such as “Sustainability 101" to "Sustainable Holiday Celebrations," "Bird-safe Homes and Buildings," and much more, listeners can expect to walk away feeling informed and inspired.
Content will be released on the first Tuesday of every month at 8 a.m. on 103.5 The Sun. If listeners miss an episode, there is no need to worry! Episode replays will air Tuesday at 8 a.m. and Saturdays at 6 p.m. Each episode will typically run between 30 to 45 minutes, making it easy to fit eco-conscious inspiration into busy schedules.
Listeners can easily tune in to the podcast by accessing the Sun Prairie Media Center app, tuning into to 103.5 The Sun, or visiting www.sunprairiemediacenter.com. Additionally, the podcast will be available on platforms such as Spotify, Amazon Music, and Google Podcasts.
For those who share a passion for sustainability and wish to get involved as a guest, please complete the interest form at https://form.jotform.com/232565502717052.
"I am really looking forward to engaging with the community through this podcast to explore all the different ways we are becoming a more Sustainable Sun Prairie," said Rose Daily, Sustainability Coordinator.
For specific questions and inquiries regarding the podcast, please reach contact podcast@cityofsunprairie.wi.gov
Organizations Encouraged to Register for 108th Annual Fire and Lights Parade
The City of Sun Prairie Volunteer Fire Department, Historical Library and Museum, and Tourism Commission are delighted to announce the much-anticipated return of the 108th Annual Fire and Lights Parade, set to illuminate Downtown Sun Prairie on Saturday, November 25. Registration is now open, and local organizations are encouraged to participate.
This annual event is a community staple that attracts more than just Sun Prairie residents. The visually stunning parade will feature decorated fire trucks and local community groups, transforming the streets into a festive celebration of the holiday season. Area fire departments will dress their trucks with holiday-themed decorations, creating a captivating display of holiday cheer.
At 6 p.m., the parade will commence from Kroncke Drive, proceeding east on Main Street and culminating in a vibrant display as the fire trucks are parked side-by-side at the intersection of Main Street, Church Street, and Market Street. Please note that candy distribution during the parade is permitted only for safety vehicles parked on Main Street. Candy distribution while moving is not allowed.
“Sun Prairie plans many events throughout the year, and this is one of my favorites,” said Mayor Paul Esser. “There is such an energy of excitement to come together and celebrate the holidays.”
Local organizations eager to be part of this tradition are invited to complete the registration form available at the following link: https://bit.ly/fireandlights23 .The deadline to register is Wednesday, November 22.
Specific questions can be directed to Alyse Peters, Special Events & Sponsorship Manager, at apeters@cityofsunprairie.com.
Administration
Native American Heritage Month
November is nationally recognized as Native American Heritage Month! You may also see it referred to as American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month.
This is a time to honor, celebrate, and spread awareness about history of Native people as well as the contributions that have been made. Native American history is American History. The indigenous people of this land are the original stewards, handing down invaluable cultural knowledge, and rich traditions.
- - -DID YOU KNOW THAT…?- - -
Wisconsin is home to twelve American Indian Nations of which eleven are federally recognized American Indian nations and tribal communities. From those eleven federally recognized American Indian Nations, Sun Prairie is located on the ancestral homelands of the Ho-Chunk people who were forced to cede their territory and had to endure great violence.
- - -HOW CAN I BE INVOLVED?- - -
On Tuesday, November 7 at 7 p.m. Mayor Paul Esser will be announcing by proclamation the month of November as Native American Heritage Month in the City of Sun Prairie. He will be joined by Art and Dawn Shegonne for a Land Acknowledgement.
Can't make it in person, no worries! You can watch all City Council meetings live by visiting https://www.sunprairiemediacenter.com/.
Inflation Reduction Act Resources
Improving your energy efficiency is the most cost-effective way to reduce your monthly energy costs. Plus, these upgrades can drastically improve your home’s comfort in the colder months by reducing drafts and ensuring rooms all stay a consistent temperature.
Through the Inflation Reduction Act, you can receive tax credits and other incentives for increasing the energy efficiency of your home, electrifying your home, installing renewable energy, or buying an electric vehicle.
Learn more about what’s available for individuals here: https://daneclimateaction.org/what-you-can-do/Federal-Funding-for-Individuals#home
Learn more about what’s available for businesses here: https://www.daneclimateaction.org/what-you-can-do/Federal-Funding-for-business
Historical Library and Museum
Sun Prairie Historical Library and Museum
The Museum is open to the public Wednesdays-Saturdays 11:00am-4:00pm and by appointment for research and special events. To learn more, visit www.cityofsunprairie.com/museum.
Staff can be reached by phone at (608) 825-0837 or by email at museum@cityofsunprairie.com.
The Historical Library and Museum is located at 115 East Main St. Sun Prairie with parking behind the building. Admission is always free.
Announcements:
New Exhibition Opens November 1st
In collaboration with the Wisconsin Historical Society’s History Makers Tour, the Sun Prairie Historical Library & Museum will be hosting a special month-long exhibition on women’s suffrage in Wisconsin.
Explore how Wisconsin women gained greater political rights and dive into stories about women leaders in Sun Prairie made possible by the 19th Amendment!
Santa Claus is Coming to…the Museum!
Kick off the holiday season with a day in Downtown Sun Prairie. Small Business Saturday specials, carolers in the streets, crafts and visits with Santa at the Museum, the annual Fire & Lights parade, and MORE!
Downtown Sun Prairie will be the place to be on Saturday, November 25th with activities kicking off at 11am and wrapping with the parade and community tree lighting beginning at 6pm.
Parks, Recreation and Forestry
What's New?
Fall is an exciting time for Parks, Recreation, and Forestry Department! In Parks, we are working on replacing the playgrounds at Royal Oaks and Stonehaven Parks, and we are in full swing of constructing a new four season shelter at Wetmore Park! In Forestry, fall is a great time to plant trees! We are planting new trees in street terraces next to newly constructed homes. We are also in the midst of developing a Hybrid Urban Forest Strategic Management Plan that will help us create and maintain a healthy and sustainable urban forest. Keep an eye out on social media and city bulletins on how you can be involved in the process!
In Recreation, there are many programs in November not to miss such as Zumba, WERQ, American Red Cross Babysitter Training, Cookie Decorating, Jingle Jam and many more! To view and/or to register for programs visit rec.cityofsunprairie.com or stop by the office during business hours Monday – Friday from 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. We are also in the process of finalizing programs and events for the Winter/Spring season. The Winter/Spring Guide will be available online on Tuesday, November 21st.
We Want Your Input!
The City of Sun Prairie Parks, Recreation, and Forestry (SPPRF) Department is excited to hear your thoughts on the management of our urban forest!
- Date: Thursday, November 16
- Time: 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM
- Location: Council Chambers, City Hall, 300 E Main St, Sun Prairie, WI
Your input is invaluable in shaping the future of our community. This initiative is made possible through support from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, and together, we'll create a comprehensive management plan that ensures the health and vibrancy of our urban forest.
What to Expect:
- Engaging Presentation on the Forest Management Plan
- Interactive Q&A Session with City Forestry Staff and Great Lakes Urban Forestry Management
Your feedback will guide us in making data-driven decisions that have a positive impact on Sun Prairie's urban forest.
Public Safety
Slow Down!
With school in session, all Dane County law enforcement agencies are teaming up with each other, the Wisconsin State Patrol, area communities and the Dane County Traffic Safety Commission (TSC) to urge drivers to keep children and adolescents safe. The collaboration includes free SLOW DOWN yard signs for residents and businesses and increased surveillance for speeding and other risky driving from September 11-15.
*Slow Down signs are available for pickup at our records counter located at City Hall, 300 E. Main St.*
Public Services
Snow & Ice Control Equipment Open House - A Day of Innovation and Collaboration!
In partnership with @WISaltWise, our Public Works Department hosted community members, municipal operators, mechanics, and other Public Works staff to learn more about best practices in snow and ice control!
This event provided a unique opportunity for attendees to directly engage in discussions with professionals in the field, gaining valuable insights into current practices and exploring future strategies for their agencies. This was a hands-on show-and-tell presentation of winter maintenance equipment, participants will have the chance to see cutting-edge tools and techniques in action.
This event provided a unique opportunity for attendees to directly engage in discussions with professionals in the field, gaining valuable insights into current practices and exploring future strategies for their agencies. This was a hands-on show-and-tell presentation of winter maintenance equipment, participants will have the chance to see cutting-edge tools and techniques in action.
Sun Prairie Public Library
Exciting new milestones have been achieved with our building expansion and renovation project! In September, the Committee of the Whole approved our design, with an opinion of probable cost of $23.5 million. The design includes many forward-thinking features including: a makerspace, a dedicated teen space, an outdoor amphitheater programming space, more study rooms, a larger Friends bookstore and café space, a geothermal HVAC, a microgrid system with solar panels and battery energy storage, and much, much more!
The next stages of the process involve going deeper into design development. This is the phase of the project where engineering, mechanical, structural, and technological details are developed for future construction documents. For more details on the process, please visit our expansion page.
Helping us on this journey is the Sun Prairie Public Library Foundation, as well as the generous individuals and organizations throughout the Sun Prairie Community that have contributed to the Capital Campaign. The Foundation has a fundraising goal of $3.5M and to date, they have raised and received pledges for $1.8M. We are more than half way there! To learn more about the Sun Prairie Public Library Foundation’s Capital Campaign, please visit their donation page.
Adult Services
NaNoWriMo - Come Write In
Participating in NaNoWriMo this year? Looking for a supportive environment to write in the company of other writers? The library is hosting open writing sessions throughout the month of November for writers looking to hit that 50,000 word goal. Please visit our Events calendar for details.
What is NaNoWriMo you ask...?
National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) is a fun, seat-of-your-pants approach to creative writing. On November 1, participants begin working towards the goal of writing a 50,000-word novel by 11:59 PM on November 30. Valuing enthusiasm, determination, and a deadline, NaNoWriMo is for anyone who has ever thought about writing a novel. Learn more about NaNoWriMo at: www.nanowrimo.org
Hearty Soups with Chef Jason Dunn
Monday, November 6 from 6-7:30pm, Community Room
Get ready for winter with Chef Jason Dunn as he demonstrates how to make hearty soups!
Space is limited, registration is required. Please register here.
Chilean Guitar Concert with Ricardo Parra (VIRTUAL)
Wednesday, November 8 from 6:30-7:30pm
Please join us for a live, virtual performance by celebrated singer, songwriter, and guitarist, Ricardo Parra! Chilean singer-songwriter and guitarist Ricardo Parra will perform a selection of songs ranging from Bossa Nova and jazz vocal standards to Latin and classical, in acoustic versions for voice and guitar. He will also perform songs from his last 3 albums plus new compositions.
This event will be held via Zoom. To receive the Zoom log-in information, please register here and it will be emailed to you.
The event is generously funded by the Friends of the Sun Prairie Public Library.
Monday, November 20 from 6-8pm, Community Room
Have you ever wanted to learn what Magic: The Gathering is all about? Already a player and looking for more opportunities to play?
This fall we'll be hosting Magic: The Gathering - Casual Commander, led by a member of the library staff, on the third Monday of each month (Sept-Nov). Join us for any or all sessions! All skill levels are welcome. Please bring your own deck. This program is for adults and teens ages 16+. Please register on our Events calendar for each session you plan to attend.
Children’s & Teen Services
Sunday, November 5 from 1:30-4:30p.m., Conference Room
New this fall! Join us to watch some anime! Learn about the manga that inspires it. We will be joined by manga-lover and scholar Katarina. This program is for teens in 6th-12th grade.
Tuesday, November 7 from 4-5:30p.m., Community Room
Join Melissa for Teen Creativity Club! The project for our November meeting is TBD. Keep watching this space!
Registration is recommended, reserve your spot by using the form below. This program is for teens in 6th - 12th grade. Questions or concerns, please email Melissa at mcarollo@sunlib.org.
Thursday, November 9 from 2-3:30pm., Community Room
Build with the library’s LEGO® collection! Bring your creativity, but leave your LEGO®s at home! For school-age children only (Kindergarten - 5th grade). Children can be left with the librarian as long as they are registered. Please register on the Events Calendar at www.sunlib.org.
Wednesday, November 15 from 4:00-5:00 p.m., Community Room
Only for ages 7-12. We play board games, Among Us, Gartic Phone, Jackbox Games, Roblox, and more in the Community Room. Please bring your own device to play on, if possible. Registration is recommended.
Thursday, November 16 2:00 or 4:15 p.m., Community Room
Only for ages 4-8. Children can be dropped off for this program. Each month we learn about different animals and habitats. Registration is required, register on the Events Calendar at www.sunlib.org
Artist-In-Residence
We're our pleased to announce our inaugural Artist-In-Residence, Rebecca Kautz! Rebecca Kautz is an interdisciplinary artist. The foundation of her art practice is in painting and drawing.
Every Monday and Wednesday, she will have studio time at the library, where she will engage in her painting practice as well as visit with library users. In addition to the studio hours, Rebecca will host a number of events at the library, inviting the community to get involved in making and sharing their own art! The Artist-In-Residence program is sponsored by the Sun Prairie Public Library Foundation.
Upcoming Artist-In-Residence Programs:
Wednesday, November 1, 12pm-2pm: Expressive Watercolor & Strange Images
Sunday, November 12, 3pm-5pm: Community Portrait/Paired Portrait
Wednesday, November 29 5:30pm-6:30pm: Artist Talk, "Art, Vulnerability, and Experience"
Library Closed
The library will be closed Thursday, 11/23 and Friday, 11/24 for Thanksgiving.
Sun Prairie Utilities
Beware!
Energy Vampires (also known as Phantom Load, Ghost Load, Vampire Draw, or Leaking Electricity) refers to the way electricity is consumed by appliances while they're switched off or in standby mode. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends you: Unplug shavers/hairdryers after use, turn off your coffee maker and other kitchen appliances when leaving the house, hook your entertainment system to a Focus on Energy power strip to easily switch the whole system off at once, and turn off computers when they're not being used. 🔗: Check it out here.
Neighborhood Navigators
Get Your Sign!
To improve driver and pedestrian safety in communities of color, the Dane County Traffic Safety Commission (TSC), in partnership with Safe Communities of Madison-Dane County, has begun a new yard sign campaign reminding all motorists to drive more safely in neighborhoods.
Cropping up around Madison and surrounding communities this week are yard signs depicting a young child, on one side cautioning drivers, “I Am Loved: Please Slow Down” and on the other side, “You Are Loved! Please Buckle Up.” Signs are in both English and Spanish.
- - -HOW CAN I GET ONE?- - -
Community organizations are helping distribute the yard signs. These include the Urban League, Boys and Girls Club of Dane County, Reach Dane, Common Wealth Development, African American Council of Churches, Catholic Multicultural Center, Madison Police Amigos en Azul, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. - Kappa Psi Omega Chapter, Northside Planning Council, Safe Kids Madison Area, Sun Prairie Neighborhood Navigators and Sun Prairie Police Department.
To request a sign, please contact Teran Peterson, Program Manager of Neighborhood Navigators and Community Health Workers, Tpeterson@cityofsunprairie.com, (608) 216-5122.
Dia de los Muertos/ Day of the Dead Celebration
There are some exciting events on the horizon that you won't want to miss. Mark your calendars and join us in celebrating!
Dia de los Muertos Celebration at the Sun Prairie Public Library
📅 Date: Saturday, November 4
📍 Location: Sun Prairie Library - 1350 Linnerud Drive
🕙 Schedule:
10:00 AM - Champurrado Making Demonstration: Explore the secrets of Champurrado, a traditional Mexican hot chocolate, with a delightful live demonstration.
10:30 AM - Bilingual Storytime: Immerse yourself in the magic of Dia de los Muertos with our special bilingual storytime.
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM - Community Altar: Pay your respects and contribute your own offerings and memories to our beautiful Community Altar.
Latino Night at the Sun Prairie Public Library
🗓️ Save the Date: Saturday, November 4th
⏰ Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Join us for a memorable day of celebration, welcoming every member of the family to participate. Here's what you can look forward to:
Family Story Time: Experience the enchanting world of storytelling, bridging cultures and generations with our bilingual storytime.
Community Altar: A centerpiece of our celebration, the community altar is a space for collective remembrance. Bring your mementos and offerings to add to this beautiful tribute.
Traditional Day of the Dead Delights: Indulge in traditional Day of the Dead bread and savor Mexican hot chocolate, all part of the cultural experience we're creating.
But that's not all! There is more in store!
🧘♀️ Women’s Wellness Night
🗓️ Save the Date: Wednesday, November 8
⏰ Time: 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
An evening dedicated to nurturing well-being, featuring:
- Meditation Circle
- Food from Local Experts
- Skin Care Insights
Wisdom shared by Adriana Perez Amador and a special guest appearance by the owner of Abarrotes El Primo, who is also a Doula in Training. Learn from Gaby Tellez, a Licensed Esthetician with a CMA in Dermatology, and be inspired by Latina Coach Melky's cancer survivor story and enjoy her special Green Smoothie.
There will be Bilingual Program Interpretation to ensure that everyone can fully engage in these enriching experiences.
Greater Sun Prairie Job Fair
Family Open Gym Night
The McKenzie Family Boys and Girls Club in Sun Prairie is excited to host "FREE FOR ALL" Friday Nights! Families are welcome to join for basketball, dinner, and connecting with community partners every Friday! Click here for more information.
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