Blaine CityConnect July/August 2023

Highway 65 Receives Major Funding Project Ready to Move Forward

State Highway 65 through Blaine carries the same number of cars as 35W through the City. But with stoplights and intersections up and down the corridor Highway 65 is notorious for traffic accidents, congestion, and being a barrier to commerce and development.

Through the transportation and bonding bills, the State of Minnesota is investing over $100 million dollars to fix Highway 65. Combined with funding previously received at the state and federal level the Highway 65 project can now begin.

“A reconstructed Highway 65 will be transformational for Blaine and the entire north metro region,” said Mayor Tim Sanders.

This investment could not have been possible without the tireless advocacy and leadership of Blaine’s legislative delegation, Mayor Tim Sanders and the entire Blaine City Council, our partners at Anoka County, and the leadership in both the Minnesota House and Senate.

The project will now move into the final design and right of way acquisition phase. Construction activity on the corridor will tentatively start in late 2025 and last for three years.

Learn more and follow the progress at BlaineMN.gov/ThriveOn65.

After 20 Years, Blaine Says Farewell to Joe Huss

City of Blaine Finance Director

Joe Huss recently completed a nearly 40-year career in local government. Huss spent the last 20 years as the finance director for the City of Blaine. Prior to working in Blaine, Huss spent time in Bloomington, West Saint Paul, and Lino Lakes. Huss always took the approach that a city budget is “more than just a math problem to solve.” He knew that budget decisions at a city level could affect the day to day lives of those in the community.

Huss came to Blaine in 2003 just days after The Lakes development was approved. It was a good time to be starting in Blaine and there was much excitement about the future. Huss had a front row seat to the changes Blaine has experienced as the City transformed into a destination community and the economic driver of the north metro. As Joe reflects on his time in Blaine he is proud of several accomplishments. During the 2008 recession Blaine was able to continue to provide services to the community, not layoff any employees, and continue to grow. The City implemented a pavement management program that financed the repair and maintenance of city streets at an accelerated pace. Joe’s most treasured accomplishment is elevating Blaine to a AAA rated city. Being a AAA rated city means that Blaine is rated as the highest performing and most dependable class of city in the eyes of the financial industry. This rating means that Blaine receives the lowest interest rates on bonds and has a very strong financial outlook.

When Joe started in Blaine 20 years ago, he did not think he would finish his career with the City. “It does not feel like I have been working at the same place for 20 years, as the City changed the work changed and new challenges emerged,” said Huss.

Just like 20 years ago when Joe started in Blaine he sees a similar level of excitement for Blaine’s next chapter, “Blaine has some really exciting things coming and the future is bright for this community.”

Upcoming Meetings

City Council*

July 5 | July 17

August 7 | August 21

7pm | City Hall Council Chambers

City Council Workshops

July 5 | July 10 | July 17

August 7 | August 14 | August 21

5:30pm | Cloverleaf Farms Room

Natural Resources Conservation Board*

July 18 | August 15

7pm | City Hall Council Chambers

Park Board*

July 25 | August 22

7pm | City Hall Council Chambers

Blaine City Hall

10801 Town Square Drive NE Blaine, MN 55449

763-784-6700

Communications@BlaineMN.gov

City Council

MAYOR

Tim Sanders 763-203-3286

TSanders@BlaineMN.gov

WARD 1

Tom Newland 612-961-1811

TNewland@BlaineMN.gov

Lori Saroya 612-516-1073

LSaroya@BlaineMN.gov

WARD 2

Leslie Larson 612-489-9651

LeslieLarson@BlaineMN.gov

Jess Robertson 763-607-2233

JRobertson@BlaineMN.gov

WARD 3

Terra Fleming 612-513-5231

TFleming@BlaineMN.gov

Chris Massoglia 612-524-9447

CMassoglia@BlaineMN.gov

CITY MANAGER

Michelle Wolfe 763-785-6120

MWolfe@BlaineMN.gov

For more information, visit WaltersRecycling.com or call 763-780-8464

City Directory

Police & Fire ..............................................911

Police (non-emergency) 763-785-6168

Fire (non-emergency)

Planning Commission*

July 11 | August 8

7pm | City Hall Council Chambers

Traffic Commission*

August 1 | November 7

7pm | City Hall Council Chambers

*Meetings can be seen live on cable channel 16 and 799. A livestream of meetings is available at BlaineMN.gov/Video

CityConnect is published bimonthly by the City of Blaine and distributed to all residents and businesses. Past copies of the city newsletter are available at BlaineMN.gov/Newsletter

A Growing Partnership Along the Northtown Library Pond

A small re-evolution is happening in Blaine on the shores of the Northtown Library stormwater pond. This pond captures the water running off the parking lots for the library and adjacent Library Administration Center. That runoff can carry: trash, sand, gravel, mud debris, salt from melting snow in the winter, grass clippings and leaves, and any leakage from vehicles. Most stormwater ponds are designed to capture pollutants for about 30 years. The re-evolution started in 2020 by adding filtering capacity at the pond shoreline to capture the runoff pollutants before they get into the pond. The filter? Plants. Specifically, plants with long roots creating multiple tiny channels for runoff to soak into the soil. The pollutants then bind onto the roots and soil particles. Less pollutants in the pond reduces the level of algal blooms and extends the useful life of the pond and reduces maintenance costs.

The other part of the re-evolution is who is doing it: a partnership of Westwood Middle School students, teachers, and community volunteers assisted by library staff and city staff, coordinated by a consultant, and partially funded by the Coon Creek Watershed District. The students use the hands-on experience to enhance their math skills by counting and growing seeds for the best diversity and creating planting plans. Then, they apply their math in a real-world project, digging and planting the shoreline buffer gardens along the Northtown Library pond.

The goals for the project include being a demonstration site for people to see up close how shorelines can be functional and beautiful at the same time. Functional as filters and as habitat for butterflies, bees, birds, and other pollinators; beautiful with flowers that bloom and have diverse plant structure throughout the growing season. There’s informational signage on site for visitors to learn more about the project. Check out the Northtown Library pond for the best flower options, whether for a shoreline planting or even a small pollinator patch for your yard. The plants can be organized to look more like a formal garden if you are uncomfortable with a natural look. A bonus for shorelines is that having plants like these can also help protect the shoreline from erosion. Long roots hold the soil much better than short turf grass roots. Stop by the Northtown Library today to see the pond!

Prevent Smoking Related Fires

Did you know that careless smoking is the leading cause of fatal fires in Minnesota? Smoking material fires are preventable. Follow these recommendations from the National Fire Protection Association to avoid fires related to smoking materials:

• If you smoke, smoke outside. Most deaths result from fires that started in living rooms, family rooms, dens, or bedrooms.

• Keep cigarettes, lighters, matches, and other smoking materials up high out of the reach of children, in a locked cabinet.

• Use a deep, sturdy ashtray to dispose of smoking materials. Place it away from anything that can burn.

• Do not discard cigarettes in vegetation such as mulch, potted plants, landscaping, peat moss, dried grasses, leaves, or other things that could ignite easily.

• Before you throw away butts and ashes, make sure they are out, and dousing in water or sand is the best way to do that.

• Never smoke while using or near anyone using medical oxygen. For more information, call 763-786-4436 or visit SBMFire.org

Department Spotlight

Say Hello to the Blaine Public Works Parks Division

Blaine Public Works has several divisions. In the summer the Parks Division is one of the most visible in the community with a team of 12 full-time staff and up to 18 seasonal summer employees. Together, they form a cohesive unit, working diligently to ensure the maintenance and upkeep of Blaine’s parks and recreational areas.

The scope of their responsibilities is extensive, covering the care of Lakeside Commons Beach, three athletic complexes, and all 67 parks throughout Blaine. They are also responsible for maintaining buildings, playgrounds, trash pickup, and creating a safe and enjoyable environment for all. They paint field lines at ballparks, trim trees, and assess the health and vitality of Blaine’s urban forest.

Even during the winter season, the Parks Division remains active. You will find them braving the elements, flooding ice rinks and plowing snow. Ensuring that residents can continue to embrace outdoor activities, no matter the weather.

This year, the Parks Division has embarked on several big projects aimed at enhancing Blaine’s parks and recreational facilities. They recently removed over 400 trees infested by emerald ash borer at Pioneer Park and the Blaine Baseball Complex. There are also plans for the replacement of playground equipment at Xylite Park, Palmer Park, and Sunnyside Park, providing children with modern and engaging play areas. Another big project is the rehabilitation of the disc golf course at Lochness Park, creating an exceptional destination for disc golf enthusiasts to enjoy.

The work of the Parks Division ensures that Blaine parks remain a source of joy, relaxation, and inspiration for the entire community.

Lawn Sprinkling Reminder Year-Round, Odd-Even Sprinkling Days, No

Sprinkling Between 10am-6pm

The City of Blaine lawn sprinkling ordinance regulates how often residents and businesses can water their yard with City water. As we endure a third summer in a row with drought conditions following these rules is very important.

• Residents with an even numbered address can water on even number dates. Residents with an odd numbered address can water on odd number dates.

• No sprinkling is allowed between 10AM and 6PM.

For more information, visit BlaineMN.gov/LawnSprinkling

City of Blaine Public Works Parks Division Employees at Lexington Athletic Complex

RecConnect Summer 2023

QC Youth Dance

Ages 0 to 18

All classes are held at the QC Dance Studio, 9967 Ulysses Street NE, Blaine.

Magical Storybook Adventure – Ages 0-5

Wednesdays, August 2-23

Ages 0-3 (with parent/adult): 9:35-10:10am

Ages 2-5 (independent): 10:10-10:45am

$50res; $55nr

Ninja Camp – Ages 4-7

Mondays, August 7-28, 6:30-7:15pm

$50res; $55nr

Fairy Frolic – Ages 2-5

Fridays, August 4-25

Ages 2-3: 9:30-10:05am

Ages 4-5: 10:10-10:40am

$50res; $55nr

Paddle Boarding

Ages 12 and up

All sessions are held at the Lakeside Commons Beach, 3020 Lakes Parkway, Blaine.

Thursday, July 13

Ages 12-15, 5-6:30pm

Ages 16 & up, 6:30-8pm

Tuesday, August 22

Ages 12-15, 5-6:30pm

Ages 16 & up, 6:30-8pm

$30res; $33nr

For more information, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register

Stay Connected

More information about Parks and Recreation is available at 763-785-6164 or in the current Recreation Connection online.

Kids Yoga – Ages 4-18

Thursdays, July 13 – August 3

Ages 4-7: 5:30-6:15pm

Ages 8-12: 6:15-7:15pm

Ages 13-18: 8:15-9:15pm

$50res; $55nr

Mermaid Yoga – Ages 4-8

Wednesday, July 26, 5:30-7pm

$30res; $33nr

Magic of Encanto – Ages 4-8

Wednesday, August 23, 5:30-7pm

$30res; $33nr

For more information about dates, times, and fees, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register

Mayer Arts

Ages 4 to 11

Both camps are held at Sunnyside Park Building, 750 Cloverleaf Parkway, Blaine. The Little Mermaid – ages 4-8 July 31 – August 3, 9am-noon

$129res; $139nr

Disenchanted Musical – ages 7-11

July 31 – August 3, 1-4pm

$129res; $139nr

For more information, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register

Tech Academy

Ages 9 to 14

Classes are held at Blaine City Hall Community Room.

Video Production for YouTube – Ages 9-14

July 17-20, 9am-noon

$132res; $142nr

Web Design – Ages 9-13

July 17-20, 1-4pm

$132res; $142nr

For complete class description and to register, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register

Skyhawk Sports Camps

Ages 2 to 12

The progression of camps and programs, led by expert staff, are geared toward youth looking for a sport introduction or those who want to refine and master their sport specific skills. Skyhawks sports has proven to be the leader in youth sports since 1979. Skyhawks goes the extra mile to focus on safety and has a long-standing proven safety track record. The following camps are offered this summer: Flag Football, Basketball, Soccer, Volleyball, Track & Field, Multi-Sport, Pickleball, and Ultimate Frisbee.

For complete details including descriptions, fees, dates, times, and locations, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register

Tenicity Tennis

Ages 5 to 17

The Tenicity Tennis program is led by former Wimbledon player, winner of ATP Professional titles, and US Collegiate Division 1 National Champion, Harsh Mankad. Harsh has over 10 years of experience leading tennis programs and developing players including to the Division 1 college level. His team of coaches are trained in the program’s methods to deliver lessons that create fun, positive, and engaging learning experiences.

Beginner Group lessons for age 5 – 17

Team Tennis Match Play for ages 10 - 16

For specific details, dates, times, locations, and fees, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register

Blaine Wetland Sanctuary

All Ages

Superheroes and Systems

Learn about how this special wetland acts as a superhero for clean water, clean air, and a healthy habitat.  Move, stretch, and breathe with yoga along the boardwalk as we look for critters and explore natural systems.

Sunday, July 16, 4-5:30pm

$5/person; $10/family

For additional information, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register

New Fishing Classes

Ages 5 to Adult

Fishing Basics

Learn about the basics of fishing using a spinning rod and reel. You will be taught how to put on a line, tie a lure and hook, putting plastic baits on the hook, and casting into water from the shore.

Ages 5 to 11

3-5PM, $50/session

Ages 12 to 17 12:30-2:30PM, $50/session

Ages 18+ 10am-noon, $50/session

Wednesdays, July 19 & 26, August 9 & 16, August 23 & 30, and September 6 & 13

Classes are taught by the Fishing Library and held at Lochness Lake, registration deadline is one week prior to class start date. All equipment is provided. Participants 16 & older must have a fishing license. Max 10 per class.

For additional information, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register

Adaptive Dance Party

Ages 5 to 18

This one day adaptive dance party is designed for dancers with special needs. The camp will consist of creative movement, props, ballet movement, and a fun dance party. Please wear a leotard (skirt attached is acceptable if not too long) or exercise/ comfortable stretchy attire. Ballet shoes or tennis shoes can be worn. All dancers must be accompanied by an adult. Does not include Performance in the Park. Max 12. Class are held at the QC Dance Studio, 9967 Ulysses Street NE, Blaine.

Tuesday, July 25, 5:30-7pm, $30

Adult QC Dance

All Classes Held at QC Dance Studio, 9967 Ulysses Street NE

Zumba

This specialty course is designed for those just starting their journey to a fit and healthy lifestyle or the older active adult. Zumba fitness is for everyone, all shapes and sizes and just about any age. This class allows you to have fun while safely losing pounds and inches. With Zumba, the fun comes first, and the physical benefits follow. Zumba Gold is like a basic Zumba class with lower impact. The class will be a fat burning, body shaping fun workout. Class held at QC Dance Studio, 9967 Ulysses Street NE, Blaine.

Session 3: Wednesdays, July 12 - August 2, 7:15-8pm

Session 4: Wednesdays, August 9-30, 7:15-8pm

$40 res; $44 nr

Yoga - Ages 19+

Students will learn calming yoga moves used to center and control energy. Enjoy a balance of different yoga paces from basic sun salutations and relaxing savasana, to basic and supine postures. Students will work on balance, flexibility, and strength while moving and holding different yoga poses.

Thursdays, July 13 - August 3, 7:15-8:15pm

$50 res; $55 nr

RecConnect Summer 2023

For more information, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register

Fall Softball All Games Played at Airport Park

The City of Blaine offers fall softball leagues for men’s, women’s, and co-rec teams. Games are played at Airport Park. Fee includes 12 games, softballs, and umpires. All games are doubleheaders. Registration dates are July 5-28 or until leagues are full. League play begins the week of August 14. Times will vary - 6, 7, 8, or 9PM.

Men’s D (DH) – Mondays - $625

Men’s D (DH) – Wednesdays - $625

Women’s (DH) – Thursdays - $625

CoRec (DH) – Tuesdays - $645

Safety Camp

Incoming 4th Graders Only

The Blaine Police Department, the Spring Lake Park-Blaine-Mounds View Fire Department, and the Blaine Parks and Recreation Department are sponsoring an exciting program to teach kids, through a variety of fun activities, how to be safe in their daily lives. The annual Blaine Safety Camp sessions may include: fire safety, internet safety, first aid, personal safety, electrical safety, animal safety, a police K9 demonstration, and more. Safety Camp is held rain or shine. Fee includes lunch, snacks, adult leadership, supplies, fitted bike helmet, t-shirt and more.

The Safety Camp program is for incoming 4th graders only. Space is limited at this time. August 9 and 10, 8am-4:30pm

Fire Station #3 11920 Ulysses Street NE Blaine MN

For more information, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register

Blaine Police Department Wants You to Bike Safely this Summer

Bicycling is a great way to get around, get some physical activity, and save you money on gas! But before you start pedaling, make sure you’re up to speed on how to do it safely.

• Inspect your Bike

Make sure your seat is adjusted and tires are inflated.

• Be Seen

Wear bright colors. If you ride at night, wear reflective clothing and use flashing lights.

• Rules of the Road

Bicyclists must follow the same traffic rules as motorists. Always ride single file in the direction of traffic and remain alert for any hazards. Know and use hand signals when turning. Before entering traffic, stop and look left, right, left again, and over your shoulder.

• E-Bikes

You must be 15 years old to operate an e-bike. E-bikes must cease to provide assistance when it reaches the speed of 28 MPH with a maximum power output of 750 watts and must have forward and rear lights to ride at night.

• Wear a Helmet

According to the Brain Injury Association of Minnesota, 600,000 people go to the emergency room with bicycle-related injuries each year. To protect against brain injury, everyone should wear a correctly fitting helmet on every ride, no matter how short. Helmets can reduce the risk of brain injury by 88 percent when worn properly.

Look for helmets with a CPSC sticker which indicates it meets safety standards. Position the helmet level on your head, about two fingers above the eyebrows. Side straps should form a “V” shape around your ears with the chin strap snug. When fitted, the helmet should not rock more than one inch on your head. Look for bike patrol officers out on pedal and e-bikes patrolling the streets this summer. Officers carry coupons in the summer for free Dairy Queen cones for kids if they catch you wearing your helmet! For more information, call 763-717-2692 or visit BlaineMN.gov/Police

Citizens Academy Registration is Now Open

Blaine Citizens Academy is designed to introduce residents to the daily operations of the City of Blaine Safety Services Department.

The fast-paced academy provides both classroom and hands-on training, offering a fun and safe behind-the-scenes look while allowing participants an opportunity to perform tasks otherwise reserved for police officers and firefighters. Safety services professionals will conduct and oversee simulations like felony traffic stops, motor vehicle extrication, and firefighter training exercises to show participants first-hand the pressure, hard work and satisfaction associated with working in public safety. Blaine Citizens Academy is held on Wednesday evenings from September 6 - November 1.

Night to Unite Civic Ready Test

Tuesday, August 1

On the first Tuesday of August each year, Blaine joins communities around Minnesota for Night to Unite, an evening of neighborhood festivities aimed at crime prevention and building a strong community. Members of the Blaine Police Department and SBM Fire Department make an effort to visit as many registered block parties as possible during the event. Find a party near you or start your own event. Learn more and register your party at, BlaineMN.gov/N2U

The City will also conduct a test of the CivicReady notification system on Night to Unite. CivicReady is a service available to Blaine residents to receive emergency notifications from the City. Residents need to sign up to receive the notifications and can customize how and where you receive the notifications. To sign up, visit BlaineMN.gov/CivicReady

Bike Helmet Fitting and Sale

Monday, August 28, 4-7pm

Visit SBM Fire Station #3, 11920 Ulysses Street NE, Blaine, MN 55434 on Monday, August 28, 4 to 7PM for a bike helmet fitting and sale! Helmets are available in a variety of colors and sizes ranging from toddlers to adults, so bring the entire family. Bike helmets are priced at $10 each. Payments accepted include cash and check.

For more information, call 763-786-4436 or visit SBMFire.org