City rolls out refreshed outreach plan: mailed newsletter, video series and mobile engagement trailer

City communications and community engagement staff presented an update on outreach programs and new tools the city plans to deploy in 2025.

Kevin Wright, community engagement manager, described efforts to standardize and expand communications, citing consistency of outreach, a CivicPlus website refresh focused on mobile usability, and restored meeting‑room camera equipment and Zoom graphics. Wright said the city will reintroduce a mailed publication, "Chaska Today," to home and business addresses in ZIP code 55318 on an every‑other‑month schedule; the 11x17 folded insert will be a front‑and‑back one‑sheet and could be expanded in future years based on feedback.

Wright also previewed short video projects and a local media push: a "You Ask, We Answer" short‑form series and a longer format "Locally Yours" show (Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, with later cable distribution when the station returns). Wright said the city would feature local businesses and civic topics, and that early episodes include park development and City Square West features.

Communications staff are developing a mobile "5‑0 trailer" (working title: Fun Interactive Vehicle for Engagement) in coordination with police and community events. The trailer is intended to be a flexible engagement asset — able to serve food at up to 10 events under current health permitting limits but also to operate as a presentation and outreach unit with a TV screen and interactive elements at neighborhood gatherings. Staff said the trailer is a refurbishment of an existing SIR trailer and will be available for city‑organized outreach; staff intends to use it for neighborhood visits and community events rather than to rent it to private groups.

Wright also noted ongoing coordination with Metronet, a private fiber provider that is installing fiber in portions of Chaska; staff explained the city does not charge a franchise fee for Internet providers under federal/state rules that restrict franchise fees to cable services.

Council members responded positively to the communications plan and the mailed newsletter, noting the value of reaching residents who do not use social media. Staff said they will continue to refine messaging and invite council input on rollouts.