e n i a l CityConnect B
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City to Host Public Meeting to Discuss Lakeside Commons Park Operations
Blaine residents are invited to City Hall on Thursday, May 12 at 6:30 p.m. for a public meeting concerning Lakeside Commons Park. The park, located at 3020 Lakes Parkway, features a beach, beach house, splash pad, boathouse, playground and picnic shelter. The meeting has been set to grant
residents an opportunity to discuss with City Council the 2011 park and beach operations and proposals for parking lot improvements. Resident input is always valuable in meeting the needs of the community. More information is available from the Parks and Recreation Department at 763-785-6162.
Blaine Police Department Stages Second ‘Every 15 Minutes’ at Centennial High School On March 31 and April 1, the Blaine Police Department, with the help of a host of volunteers, presented Every 15 Minutes to students at Centennial High School. Every 15 Minutes is an emotional two-day event that challenges teenagers to think about drinking, driving, personal safety, the responsibility of making mature decisions and the impact their decisions have on family, friends and the community. This marked the second time Every 15 Minutes has been presented at Centennial High School; the Blaine Police Department staged the state’s first-ever event at the school two years ago. The most powerful aspect of the program was a simulated drunk driving collision on the school track. With the student body assembled in the bleachers, a mock crash scene was unveiled
before them. Chaos unfolded as victims emerged from two vehicles and a survivor called 911. One by one, emergency responders, who were using the simulation as training, arrived to the scene. The chilling presentation ended with one crash victim removed from the accident in a body bag, another in handcuffs. A third student was air-lifted to the hospital. Two more left in ambulances. The audience was left to consider the day’s events until an assembly the next morning, when students involved in the simulated crash shared their testimony in an emotional presentation. North Metro TV produced a video of the event, viewable online by searching for Every 15 Minutes in the “Video on Demand” section of www.northmetrotv.com .
May/June 2011
Road Construction Projects Begin this Summer Several roadways in Blaine will see major construction work this summer as the city and county continue to focus on improving transportation as the community grows. Reconstruction of 95th Avenue from Interstate 35W to Hamline Avenue will be completed this spring. Remaining work includes finishing touches on the center median and recreational trail in addition to final pavement work. Hamline Avenue will see major work as well, as a joint project with the City of Lexington will fully reconstruct the road between Edgewood Road and Patriot Lane. The service road on the west side of Highway 65 from 126th Avenue to 128th Avenue and 130th Avenue to 133rd Avenue will also be reconstructed, changing the road from its current rural section into an urban road with storm sewer and curb and gutter. Cloud Drive/119th Avenue will be also see work this summer. The existing pavement will be replaced between Highway 65 and London Street. Additionally, transportation in the Northtown area will be improved as 87th Lane and Jefferson Street are resurfaced. In addition to those city projects, two Anoka County projects will also affect local roads in upcoming months. Phase III of the reconstruction of Radisson Road from 125th Avenue in Blaine to Bunker Lake Road in Ham Lake, a project begun last summer, is now underway. The project, which widened Radisson Road to four lanes with a raised center median, also reconstructed Bunker Lake Road between Radisson Road and Highway 65. This final phase includes paving work and will conclude in July. A second county project will reconstruct 125th Avenue/Main Street from Ulysses Street in Blaine west to Crane Street in Coon Rapids, causing intermittent lane shifts and closures as a four-lane divided roadway is built. As always, please use extra caution when traveling in construction areas.
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DISTRICT 1 Wes Hovland
8650 Van Buren St. NE Blaine, MN 55434 763-228-1117 whovland@ci.blaine.mn.us
Dick Swanson
P.O. Box 49725 Blaine, MN 55449 763-370-2557 dswanson@ci.blaine.mn.us
DISTRICT 2 Dave Clark
10833 Fillmore St. NE Blaine, MN 55434 763-754-7643 dclark@ci.blaine.mn.us
Mike Bourke
83 103rd Ave. NE Blaine, MN 55434 763-784-1986
JUNE JUNE
12147 Radisson Road NE Blaine, MN 55449 763-757-3390 tryan@ci.blaine.mn.us
contactsJUNE
MAYOR Tom Ryan
Sun
DISTRICT 3 Kathy Kolb
Russ Herbst
12875 Lever St. NE Blaine, MN 55449 763-784-6143 rherbst@ci.blaine.mn.us
CITY MANAGER Clark Arneson
763-785-6120 carneson@ci.blaine.mn.us
FoLLOW uS
11308 Jefferson St. NE Blaine, MN 55434 763-757-6887 kkolb@ci.blaine.mn.us
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City Council Workshops May 5 | May 12 | May 19 June 2 | June 9 | June 16 6:30 p.m. | City Hall Cloverleaf Room
Park Board*
B zone recycling
Tues
May 5 | May 19 | June 2 | June 16 7:30 p.m. | City Hall Council Chambers
May 10 | June 14 7 p.m. | City Hall Council Chambers
A zone recycling
CITY COUNCIL
City Council*
Planning Commission*
Blaine City Hall
10801 Town Square Drive NE Blaine, MN 55449 763-784-6700 763-785-6156 (fax)
PUBLIC MEETINGS
May 24 | June 28 7 p.m. | City Hall Council Chambers
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Police and Fire................................................ 911 Police (non-emergency) . ..................763-785-6168 Fire (non-emergency)........................763-786-4436 Building Inspections..........................763-785-6170 Cable Channel 15..............................763-780-8241 City Cable Channel 16 ......................763-785-6192 City Clerk ........................................763-785-6124 City Manager....................................763-785-6120 Community Standards.......................763-785-6187 Crime Prevention..............................763-785-6113 Economic Development.....................763-785-6147 Engineering......................................763-785-6172 Fire Inspections ...............................763-785-6187 Forestry ..........................................763-717-2660 Housing Services .............................763-785-6146 Human Resources ............................763-785-6109 Job Line . ........................................763-717-2679 Newsletter ......................................763-717-2735 Operator..........................................763-784-6700 Parks and Recreation .......................763-785-6164 Planning & Zoning ...........................763-785-6180 Public Works....................................763-785-6165 Recycling & Solid Waste ...................763-785-6192 Senior Citizens Center ......................763-786-9375 Streets ...........................................763-785-6165 Stormwater......................................763-785-6188 Utility Billing . ..................................763-785-6141 Water & Sewer System .....................763-785-6165 Web................................................763-717-2638 Learn more about the City of Blaine and keep updated with happenings by following the city online. www.facebook.com/blaine.mn http://twitter.com/blaineminnesota www.youtube.com/cityofblaine www.ci.blaine.mn.us/go/emailupdates
email updates
Natural Resource Conservation Board May 17 | June 21 7 p.m. | City Hall Cloverleaf Farm Room
Arts Council May 11 | June 8 6:30 p.m. | City Hall Lunch Room
Historical Society June 14 6:30 p.m. | City Hall Sanctuary Room
*meetings can be seen live on cable channel 16
About this Newsletter... 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 www.ci.blaine.mn.us. Feedback can be directed to newsletter @ ci.blaine.mn.us . All city legal notices are published in the city’s official newspaper, the Blaine/Spring Lake Park Life.
may | june 2011
Second Bike Helmet Event Set for May 3 More information about the bike helmet fitting and sales event is available from Andrea Hunt of the Blaine Police Department at 763-785-6113 or ahunt @ ci.blaine.mn.us.
Last year, residents hosted 106 neighborhood block parties in the city, most featuring food, fun activities and a brief crime prevention discussion. Police officers and firefighters made appearances at most gatherings to discuss home and neighborhood safety and allow children to explore their emergency vehicles. Blaine Safety Services also collects school supplies for the Community Emergency Assistance Program, which enables local disadvantaged students to begin the school year with proper supplies. Neighborhood groups are encouraged to register planned outings with the city to ensure a visit from members of the city’s Safety Services Department. Registration is free and all materials are currently available online and from the Police Department at City Hall. Contact Crime Prevention Specialist Kim Kiley at 763-785-6186 for more information or visit www.ci.blaine.mn.us and search keywords night to unite .
City to Host Annual Storm Water Pollution Prevention Program Meeting in May The annual public information meeting for Blaine’s Storm Water Pollution Prevention Program will be held on Tuesday, May 10, from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Cloverleaf Farm Room of Blaine City Hall. This annual meeting is a requirement of the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System permit regulated by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. The purpose of the meeting is to inform residents on the activities conducted
Test your fire safety smarts with this helpful quiz designed for older residents. Answers below. 1. Good housekeeping is important for fire safety because: A. removing clutter keeps escape routes clear. B. more clutter means more things to catch fire. Magazines and newspapers light quickly and burn fast. C. gently dusting smoke alarms keeps them working well. D. all of the above
Register Now for Night to Unite 2011 Night to Unite returns to Blaine on Aug. 2, when the city’s neighborhoods will join thousands across the state to celebrate an evening of outdoor festivities aimed at increasing crime prevention awareness and building a stronger community. This marks the third year of Night to Unite in Blaine and the 25th consecutive year Blaine residents and Safety Services personnel have gathered on a summer night to unite against crime.
Becky Booker - SBM Fire Department
by the city in the past year to be compliant with the Storm Water Pollution Prevention Program (SWPPP). A brief presentation will be made and staff will be available to answer questions regarding the activities the City of Blaine has been and will be engaging in as a result of implementing the SWPPP. More information is available from Stormwater Manager Jim Hafner at 763-785-6188 or jhafner @ ci.blaine.mn.us.
2. Smoke alarms are an important fire safety tool. They should be tested: A. every few years or when the battery dies. B. every month. Batteries should be replaced at least once a year. C. yearly when it is time to change the battery. D. whenever the battery runs out. 3. Anything that gives off heat or requires electricity should be treated as a potential fire or burn hazard. These items include: A. stovetops and ovens. B. space heaters, fireplaces, woodstoves. C. electrical appliances such as coffee makers and clothes irons. D. overloaded electrical sockets. E. candles. F. clothes dryers. G. all of the above 4. Fire-safe cigarettes are: A. inflammable, so older adults are always safe from fire by using them. B. less likely to cause a home fire, so it is a good idea to use them, but always be careful when handling any kind of lit cigarette. C. all hype. They are just as flammable as regular cigarettes. 5. Fires can start when people: A. fall asleep while smoking. Fires from lit cigarettes often ignite couches or beds. B. drink alcohol or medication that makes them drowsy and/or less aware. C. leave the kitchen when cooking on the stove. D. all of the above 6. Many home fires begin in the kitchen. In the event of a small grease or pan fire: A. put on an oven mitt and slide a lid over the pan to extinguish the fire quickly. Turn off the burner if possible, slide the lid from front to back to minimize contact with flames and heat. B. reach for a fire extinguisher first. C. take a portable phone outside and call the fire department immediately D. all of the above, except B 1)D 2)B 3)G 4)C 5)D 6)D
As part of an ongoing effort to ensure the safety of bicyclists in the community, the City of Blaine Safety Services Division will host its second bike helmet fitting and sales event of the spring from 4 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, May 3 at Blaine City Hall. Bike helmets will be sold for $12 each and will be available in a variety of colors and sizes ranging from toddler to adult. All helmets are Bell® brand helmets and comply with U.S. CPSC Safety Standards. Safety Services professionals will also ensure all helmets fit properly. Residents may also bring any helmets they already own for proper fitting. Parents are encouraged to get a helmet for themselves or have an existing one fitted to exemplify safety for their kids. No appointments are necessary and helmets are available only while supplies last.
Fire Safety for Older Residents
2010 Drinking Water Report
The City of Blaine is issuing the results of monitoring done on its drinking water for the period from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, 2010. The purpose of this report is to advance consumers’ understanding of drinking water and heighten awareness of the need to protect precious water resources.
Source of Water
Call 763-785-6165 if you have questions about the City of Blaine drinking water or would like information about opportunities for public participation in decisions that may affect the quality of the water.
The City of Blaine provides drinking water to its residents from a groundwater source: 16 wells, ranging from 228 to 741 feet deep, drawing water from the Franconia-Mt. Simon, FranconiaEau Claire, Quaternary Buried Artesian, Ironton-Mt. Simon, Jordan-Mt.Simon and Jordan-Galesville aquifers.
Results of Monitoring No contaminants were detected at levels that violated federal drinking water standards. However, some contaminants were detected in trace amounts that were below legal limits. The following table shows the contaminants detected in trace amounts last year. (Some contaminants are sampled less frequently than once per year; as a result, not all conaminants were sampled for in 2010. If any of these contaminants were detected the last time they were sampled for, they are included in the table along with the date that the detection occurred.)
The water provided to customers may meet drinking water standards, but the Minnesota Department of Health has also made a determination as to how vulnerable the source of water may be to future contamination incidents. If you wish to obtain the entire source water assessment regarding your drinking water, please call 651-201-4700 or 1-800-818-9318 (and press 5) during normal business hours. It can also be viewed online at www.health.state.mn.us/divs/eh/water/swp/swa.
Abbreviation Key for Tables MCLG ─ Maximum Contaminant Level Goal: The level of a contaminant in drinking water below which there is no known or expected risk to health. MCLGs allow for a margin of safety. MCL ─ Maximum Contaminant Level: The highest level of a contaminant that is allowed in drinking water. MCLs are set as close to the MCLGs as feasible using the best available treatment technology. MRDL ─ Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level. MRDLG ─ Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level Goal.
Contaminant (units)
MCLG MCL
1,2-Dichloroethane (ppb)
0
5
Alpha Emitters (pCi/l) Arsenic (ppb)
0 0
15.4 10
Barium (ppm)
2
2
Combined Radium (pCi/l) 0 Flouride (ppm) 4
5.4 4
Haloacetic Acids (HAA5) (ppb) Mercury (inorganic) (ppb)
0
60
2
2
TTHM (total trihalomethanes) (ppb) Total Coliform Bacteria
0
80
Xylenes (ppm)
10
AL ─ Action Level: The concentration of a contaminant which, if exceeded, triggers treatment or other requirement which a water system must follow. 90th Percentile Level ─ This is the value obtained after disregarding 10 percent of the samples taken that had the highest levels. (For example, in a situation in which 10 samples were taken, the 90th percentile level is determined by disregarding the highest result, which represents 10 percent of the samples.) Note: In situations in which only five samples are taken, the average of the two with the highest levels is taken to determine the 90th percentile level. pCi/l ─ PicoCuries per liter (a measure of radioactivity). ppb ─ Parts per billion, which can also be expressed as micrograms per liter (μg/l). ppm ─ Parts per million, which can also be expressed as milligrams per liter (mg/l). nd ─ No detection. N/A ─ Not applicable (does not apply).
0 present >5%
present
10
Level Found Typical Source of Contaminant Range Average (2010) Result* 0.6-0.67 0.67 Discharge from industrial chemical factories. N/A 7.7 Erosion of natural deposits 1.5510.4** Erosion of natural deposits; runoff 10.4 from orchards; runoff from glass and electronics production wastes. N/A 0.05 Discharge of drilling wastes; discharge from metal refineries; erosion of natural deposits. N/A 3.3 Erosion of natural deposits N/A 1.2 State of Minnesota requires all municipal water systems to add fluoride to the drinking water to promote strong teeth; erosion of natural deposits; discharge from fertilizer and aluminum factories. N/A 9.1 By-product of drinking water disinfection. N/A 0.02 Erosion of natural deposits; discharge from refineries and factories; runoff from landfills; runoff from cropland N/A 18.4 Byproduct of drinking water disinfection. N/A 2%*** Naturally present in environment. nd0.002 0.00159
Discharge from petroleum factories; discharge from chemical factories.
*This is the value used to determine compliance with federal standards. It sometimes is the highest value detected and sometimes is an average of all the detected values. If it is an average, it may contain sampling results from the previous year. **Our system has taken the initiative to limit the amount of water being pumped from the source(s) with elevated arsenic. Our system has signed a compliance agreement with the MDH that ensures all residents receive drinking water that contains less than 10.4 ppb of arsenic on a regular basis. Erosion of natural deposits may lead to arsenic in groundwater. Some people who drink water containing arsenic in excess of the MCL over many years could experience skin damage or problems with their circulatory system, and may have an elevated risk of getting cancer. ***Follow-up sampling showed no contamination present.
Contaminant (units)
MRDLG
MRDL
***
****
Typical Source of Contaminant
Chlorine (ppm)
4
4
0.041.79
0.59
Water additive used to control microbes.
Sites over AL 0 of 30
Typical Source of Contaminant
0 of 30
*** Highest and lowest monthly average. **** Highest quarterly average.
Contaminant (units)
MCLG AL
Copper (ppm)
1.3
1.3
90% Level 0.93
Lead (ppb)
N/A
15
0.8
Corrosion of household plumbing systems; erosion of natural deposits. Corrosion of household plumbing systems; erosion of natural deposits.
If present, infants and children who drink water containing lead in excess of the action level could experience delays in their physical or mental development. Children could show slight deficits in attention span and learning abilities. Adults who drink this water over many years could develop kidney problems or high blood pressure. Lead in drinking water is primarily from materials and components associated with service lines and home plumbing. The City of Blaine is responsible for providing high quality drinking water, but cannot control the variety of materials used in plumbing components. When your water has been sitting for several hours, you can minimize the potential for lead exposure by flushing your tap for 30 seconds to two minutes before using water for drinking or cooking. If you are concerned about lead in your water, you may wish to have your water tested. Information about lead in drinking water, testing methods and steps you can take to minimize exposure is available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791 or online at www.epa.gov/safewater/lead. Some contaminants do not have an established Maximum Contaminant Levels. These unregulated contaminants are assessed using state standards known as health risk limits to determine if they pose a threat to human health. If unacceptable levels of an unregulated contaminant are found, the response is the same as if an MCL has been exceeded; the water system must inform its customers and take other corrective actions. The table that follows shows the unregulated contaminants detected:
Contaminant (units) Sodium (ppm) Sulfate (ppm)
Range (2010) N/A N/A
Average Result Typical Source of Contaminant 10.5 11.4
Erosion of natural deposits. Erosion of natural deposits.
Contact Us Residents can call the City of Blaine Public Works desk at 763-785-6165 for more information about drinking water in the community. Use the same number for additional information about opportunities to participate in decisions that may affect water quality. In case of an after-hours emergency concerning the water system, please call Anoka County Emergency Dispatch at 763-427-1212.
John Lind Water Department Supervisor 763-785-6137
jlind@ci.blaine.mn.us
Mike Ulrich Public Works Director 763-785-6167
mulrich@ci.blaine.mn.us
Compliance with National Primary Drinking Water Regulations The sources of drinking water (both tap water and bottled water) include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs and wells. As water travels over the surface of the land or through the ground, it dissolves naturally occurring minerals and, in some cases, radioactive material, and can pick up substances resulting from the presence of animals or from human activity. Contaminants that may be present in source water include: Microbial contaminants, such as viruses and bacteria, which may come from sewage treatment plants, septic systems, agricultural livestock operations and wildlife. Inorganic contaminants, such as salts and metals, which can be naturally occurring or result from urban stormwater runoff, industrial or domestic wastewater discharges, oil and gas production, mining or farming. Pesticides and herbicides, which may come from a variety of sources such as agriculture, urban stormwater runoff and residential uses. Organic chemical contaminants, including synthetic and volatile organic chemicals, which are byproducts of industrial processes and petroleum production, and can also come from gas stations, urban stormwater runoff and septic systems.
Radioactive contaminants, which can be naturally occurring or be the result of oil and gas production and mining activities. In order to ensure that tap water is safe to drink, the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) prescribes regulations which limit the amount of certain contaminants in water provided by public water systems. Food and Drug Administration regulations establish limits for contaminants in bottled water which must provide the same protection for public health. Drinking water, including bottled water, may reasonably be expected to contain at least small amounts of some contaminants. The presence of contaminants does not necessarily indicate that water poses a health risk. More information about contaminants and potential health effects can be obtained by calling the Environmental Protection Agency’s Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791. Some people may be more vulnerable to contaminants in drinking water than the general population. Immuno-compromised persons such as persons with cancer undergoing chemotherapy, persons who have undergone organ transplants, people with HIV/AIDS or other immune system disorders, some elderly and infants can be particularly at risk from infections. These people should seek advice about drinking water from their health care providers. EPA/CDC guidelines on appropriate means to lessen the risk of infection by Cryptosporidium are available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791.
Blaine ION T A E R REC NECTION CON
on creati and Re Parks mmer 2011 Su
Performance in the Park
Free outdoor concerts begin at 7 p.m. at Town Square Park (unless otherwise noted) June 16 - Cyril Paul (Caribbean) June 17 - Tricia & the Toonies (children’s) (10:30 a.m. at Aquatore Park)
June 21 - Centennial Community Band June 23 - Dance Moves Ballet
Lakeside Commons Park & Beach - opens June 11 Beach: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Splash Pad: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Boathouse: 1 – 6 p.m. (M-F) noon – 6 p.m. (Sat-Sun) Beach: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Picnic Shelter & Playground: 5 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Minnesota Twins Youth Baseball Training Camp
ages 8 to 18 DATE: June 13 & 14 TIME: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. FEE: $200 Held at Blaine Baseball Complex. Register at www.twinsbaseball.com/community.
Minnesota Twins Youth Clinic
DATE: May 21 TIME: 10 – 11:30 a.m. (ages 6-9) 11:30 a.m. – noon (ages 10-16) FEE: FREE! Held at Blaine Baseball Complex. Moves indoors at NSC in case of rain.
Community Outings
Call 763-786-9375 for more information.
Lunch & Lock Cruise
DATE: Monday, June 6 TIME: 7:45 a.m. – 6 p.m. FEE: $65 Register by May 23.
Invitation to the White House & Rose Garden DATE: Wednesday, July 13 TIME: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. FEE: $48 Register by June 28.
Casino Trip
Monday, Aug. 1: Treasure Island
Bayfield/Mackinac Island Express Aug. 23 – 28. Call for itinerary.
More information about Parks and Recreation programs is available at 763-785-6164 or in the current Recreation Connection online at www.blaineparks.com .
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Lakes Athletic Complex to be Renamed in Honor of Former Parks & Rec Director On Saturday, June 4, Lakes Athletic Complex will be formally renamed and dedicated in honor of Jim Peterson, a longtime city employee and the former director of the Parks and Recreation Department. The public is invited to attend a ceremony at 10 a.m. as the year-old park is renamed Jim Peterson Athletic Complex. Peterson worked for the City of Blaine for 34 years, the final 23 as the Parks and Recreation director. He retired in 2007 but his impact on Blaine’s park system cannot be overstated. During his tenure as director, park numbers jumped from 26 to 60 and city trails
went from virtually non-existent outside city parks to more than 40 miles. Said one Blaine Park Board member of Peterson: “Because of his dedication, vision, leadership and drive, we enjoy one of the best park systems in the state of Minnesota. Renaming the Lakes Athletic Complex would be a fitting memorial to a man who gave so much to the city and community.” The 22.4-acre park, adjacent to Northpoint Elementary School at 12302 Cloud Drive, is home to four tennis courts, two regulation soccer/football fields, two baseball fields and a basketball court.
Blaine’s Blazin’ Festival Schedule Released Be part of history as Blaine’s Blazin’ Festival celebrates its 41st year of fun. The weekend festivities will be held June 24, 25 and 26 at Aquatore Park, with the annual fireworks spectacular staged at the National Sports Center on July 4 at 10 p.m. Carnival rides and games will be ongoing throughout the weekend and each day will end with fantastic live music. Bands this year include Jonah and the Whales, Rockie Lynne and The Rockin’ Hollywoods. The annual parade will begin at noon Saturday and classic cars will be on display all day Sunday. A full schedule of BBF
events is available at www.blainefestival.org. For the second year, Blaine Parks and Recreation and sponsor Best Buy of Northtown are conducting a medallion hunt in city parks. A small medallion will be hidden in one of Blaine’s 62 parks, with a $500 gift certificate to Best Buy of Northtown awarded to the person who follows clues to the medallion. Clues will be posted at www.blaineparks.com beginning at noon on Friday, June 24. A second clue will be posted at 4:30 p.m. the same day. Full rules and additional details are available at the Parks and Rec website.
Off-Leash Dog Park Open at Happy Acres
Mary Ann Young Senior Center
Resident dog owners are invited to bring dogs to Happy Acres Park and enjoy the city’s dog park inside seasonal hockey rinks. The free off-leash canine exercise area is tentatively scheduled to open May 14, contingent on ground conditions, and is open during regular park hours. Signs will be posted to indicate which rink is designated for large or small dogs. Mutt Mitts are provided. Please do your part to keep the park clean and safe for other dogs and their owners.
Senior Scene
9150 Central Ave. | 763-786-9375 May 5 – Cinco de Mayo – refreshments, BINGO and lunch May 6 – Ladies’ Luncheon – drawings, lunch, entertainment by Mary Hall – all welcome May 13 – Property Tax/Rent Credit Assistance – no appts; lunch registrants get priority May 18 – 80 & Over Party – lunch, entertainment by Clayton Toman, lunch – all welcome May 19 – Movie: The King’s Speech May 25 – Birthday Entertainment June 2 – Wedding Anniversary Day – recognize those married 50+ years; entertainment by David Allen – all are welcome June 8 – Pork Chop Dinner Tickets on Sale June 16 – Men’s Luncheon – entertainment by Kevin Wegman – all are welcome June 23 – Movie: True Grit Blaine Blazin’ Festival Week of Fun June 27 – Prize/Penny Bingo June 28 – Wii Tourny & 500 Card Tourny June 29 – Monthly Birthday Party June 30 – Cribbage Tournament The Mary Ann Young Senior Center offers a variety of programs, social events and dining options on weekdays. Call for more information and times or learn more online. Visit www.ci.blaine.mn.usand search keyword senior center.
may | june 2011
Reserve Trees for Annual Arbor Day Sale; All Door-to-Door Solicitors Require City Awarded ‘Tree City’ Designation The City of Blaine will host its annual Arbor Day Tree Sale on May 7 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Public Works facility. The sale is limited Blaine residents. Reserve the bare-root trees in advance and pay at pick up. Each residence is limited to two trees. There are no warranties on these trees. To place an order, contact Public Works at 763-785-6165 or City Forester/Parks Supervisor Marc Shippee at 763-717-2660 or mshippee @ ci.blaine.mn.us. For more information and tree pictures, visit www.ci.blaine.mn.us and search keywords tree sale. Species
size
Autumn Blaze Maple (Acer x Freemanii) Ohio Buckeye (Aesculus glabra) River Birch (Betula Nigra) Blue Beech (Carpinus caroliniana) Niobe Weeping Willow (Salix alba ‘Tristis’) Redmond Linden (Tilia Americana ‘Redmond’) Accolade Elm (Ulmus ‘Morton’) *disease resistant* Mount Royal Plum (Prunus ‘Mount Royal’)
PRICE*
-- sold out --
1.5 in. (diameter)
$36.75
5 ft. (clump height) 1.25 in. (diameter) 1.5 in. (diameter) 6 ft. (height) 11/16 in. (diameter)
$23.90 $19.70 $33.25 $22.85 $11.10
-- sold out --
*sales tax not included
The City of Blaine was once again named a Tree City USA community by the Arbor Day Foundation. The Tree City USA program provides direction, technical assistance, public attention and national recognition for community forestry programs. This marks the 17th consecutive year the city has earned the distinction.
Hydrant Flushing Begins in Early May The City of Blaine Public Works Department will be performing annual fire hydrant flushing in May. This process removes any sediment that may have settled in water mains over the course of the year, as well as presenting an opportunity to ensure hydrants are in proper working order. To minimize the duration of disruption to the city’s water system, crews will flush hydrants from Tuesday, May 10 through Friday, May
13. Crews will be working citywide from 6:30 a.m. until at least 4:30 p.m. to flush all hydrants within those days. Hydrant flushing will create periods of low water pressure, with the disturbance in the water mains potentially causing dark water. Although safe for human consumption, the discolored water may stain clothes. Residents are asked to refrain from washing clothes between the hours of 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., or until hydrants in the area have been flushed. Please check for water discoloration before washing. Call 763-785-6165 for more information.
Report Streetlight Contact Public Outages to Local Works Immediately Electric Companies if Sewer Backs Up The City of Blaine has streetlight maintenance contracts with the electric utility companies in the area. If you notice a streetlight not working in your neighborhood, please contact your electric company directly. Phone numbers for the local companies are: Connexus Energy: 763-323-2650 Xcel Energy: 1-800-895-4999
Residents experiencing a sewer back-up should immediately contact the City of Blaine Public Works Department. Public Works will check the sewer main for blockages, as tree roots in the line may cause back-ups for neighbors as well. During regular business hours, Blaine Public Works can be reached at 763-785-6165. Outside of business hours, call Anoka County Dispatch at 763-427-1212 in order to notify Blaine Public Works.
City License
Any door-to-door peddler or solicitor in Blaine is required to carry city-issued photo identification, which is supplied upon completion of a favorable background investigation. The cityissued license for 2011 is printed on white paper imprinted with the city seal. Peddlers and solicitors must carry their license with them at all times and show it at the request of any resident. The license does not constitute an endorsement of the products or merchandise by the city. Complaints about business practices can be registered with the Better Business Bureau of Minnesota by phone at (651) 699-1111. For more information or to view the city’s complete peddler and solicitor policy, visit www.ci.blaine.mn.us and search keyword solicitors .
Memorial Day Services on May 28 Veterans’ organizations of Anoka County will hold two Memorial Day services on Saturday, May 28. The public is invited to a picnic with the Anoka County Veterans Council at Bunker Hills Park after the ceremonies. 10 a.m. – Morningside Memorial Gardens Coon Rapids 11:30 a.m. – Bunker Hills Park Coon Rapids
Monthly Recycling at Aquatore Park Each third Saturday of the month, the City of Blaine sponsors a recycling drop-off program in the parking lot of Aquatore Park. The collection event is staged near the Mary Ann Young Senior Center and recurs the third Saturday of every month from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Most appliances cost $10 each; air conditioners and water softeners are $15. Most electronics, including televisions, will cost between $2 and $25, depending on size. Tires and rechargeable batteries may also be recycled for a small fee. Free items include scrap metal, car batteries, used clothing and all items collected as part of the city’s curbside recycling program. A free paper shedding service is also available to shred sensitive documents. Please note, no garbage will be accepted. To learn more about the city’s recycling drop-off program and for a list of acceptable items and associated fees, call 763-785-6192 or visit www.ci.blaine.mn.us and search keyword recycle .
10801 Town Square Drive NE Blaine, MN 55449-8101 (763) 784-6700
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Clockwise from top right: The original road sign indicating Central Avenue and the Elwell Grade; campaign card from Elwell’s 1920 campaign for mayor of Minneapolis, which he lost; cattle barns at Golden Lake Farm in Blaine Township; the Elwell Grade in 1892; letterhead from Minneapolis Furniture Company. Below: Political cartoon extolling Elwell as a builder of roads (date and source unknown).
Landowner, Politician James T. Elwell Altered the Landscape in Blaine James T. Elwell’s name has largely been forgotten in the annals of local history, but 100 years ago he was a prominent Minnesota resident who made significant contributions not only to the city of Minneapolis and the state of Minnesota but to Blaine Township and Anoka County as well. Elwell was born in 1855 in St. Anthony, attended public school in Cottage Grove and later matriculated at Carleton College in Northfield. At 16, he invented a spring bed that led to the development of two of the largest manufacturing companies in the Northwest at the time, Minneapolis Furniture Company and Minneapolis Bedding Company. These enterprises contributed significantly to the economic growth and progress of both Minneapolis and Minnesota. As real estate investor in southeast Minneapolis, Elwell built three housing developments and planted hundreds of elm trees. To alleviate the problem of marshy wetlands in the area, Elwell pioneered a drainage system of drain tile and boxes. This experience would later prove useful on his farms in Anoka County. In 1886, with proceeds from his businesses and real estate enterprises, Elwell purchased 52,700 acres of land in Anoka County and established two livestock breeding farms: Oak Leaf Farm in Ham Lake and Golden Lake Farm in Blaine Township. Again faced with marshy wetlands, Elwell constructed approximately 200 miles of ditching, reclaiming thousands of acres of productive land for the surrounding farming communities. Because his two farms were situated eight miles apart, Elwell built a straight-line wagon road to connect them, a project that cost him
$1,000 per mile. The wagon road is considered to be the first highway of its kind in the state and exists today as part of Lexington Avenue between Lake Drive and Ham Lake. A large tax debt, poor soil conditions and the Panic of 1893 caused Elwell to lose most of his land in Anoka County. He managed to retain Golden Lake Farm and moved his family there Blaine Historical Society from southeast Minneapolis. In Our Mission 1899, he was elected to the state To gather, preserve and disseminate House of Representatives, where the history of the city of Blaine, he fought earnestly in support Minnesota – to foster awareness of the of good roads in rural areas and past, understanding of the present and was active in promoting stockplan for the future. raising interests in Minnesota. With finances improving, The Blaine Historical Society meets Elwell moved his family back to in the Sanctuary Room at Blaine City southeast Minneapolis in 1901. Hall at 6 p.m. on the second Tuesday of even-numbered months. For more Five years later, he was elected as a information, contact: state senator from the University Orville Lindquist, President district, serving until 1915. In 612-850-8132 the Senate, he was instrumental orville.lindquist@gmail.com in passing the landmark “Elwell Law” for rural highway expansion and was an ardent supporter of the University of Minnesota. James Elwell died in 1933. His role in the betterment of the state is taken for granted today, but the legacy of his contributions endures because of his hard work and creativity. This article was researched and written by members of the Blaine Historical Society.