Young Life offers teens a place to belong
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
After five years in the making, Centennial Area Young Life has finally become a reality.
Young Life Club will meet every other Monday at 7:27 p.m. in the community room, located at 100 Civic Heights Circle in Circle Pines. The next meeting is scheduled for Sept. 30. A committee of volunteers has been in place since 2019,
but then the pandemic hit, explained Committee Chair Robin Balck. (See “Young Life coming to Centennial area” Quad Community Press, Sept. 24, 2019.)
Founded in 1941, Young Life is an ecumenical Christian ministry committed to making a positive difference in the lives of children through the friendship and influence of caring adults. Young Life exists in over 100 countries
and prides itself on knowing more than 2 million children by name.
Earlier this year, Jess Drayer was hired to serve as Centennial Young Life’s area director. Drayer graduated from Centennial High School in 2018. So far, she has a team of five volunteer leaders involved who range in age from college students to their 50s. SEE YOUNG LIFE, PAGE 7
City, residents provide feedback to developer of Natures Refuge North
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
LINO LAKES — The Planning and Zoning Commission and Environmental Board have offered feedback on a revised concept plan for Natures Refuge North. Next up? Comments from the City Council.
The development comprises two parcels totaling approximately 60 gross acres and is located north of Natures Refuge, close to the Arena Acres neighborhood.
M/I Homes of Minneapolis/St. Paul LLC submitted a land use application for a planned unit development (PUD) concept plan in October 2023. M/I Homes has now submitted a revised concept plan based on comments received from the public, staff, commissions and council for additional review and comments.
“They went back to the drawing board and tried to take into consideration the conversations we had,” said City Planner Katie Larsen. “We are way at a high level (with a concept plan). The next step would be full-blown engineering if they decide to move forward.”
M/I Homes now proposes to construct 92 housing units compared to the initial 108. Previously, the developer proposed varying lot widths with multiple housing products. All 92 units are proposed to be single-level villas.
SEE M/I HOMES, PAGE 3
Young Life is an ecumenical Christian ministry. The next meeting will be on Sept. 30. in the community room, 100 Civic Heights Circle in Circle Pines.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
ONGOING EVENTS
HUGO SENIOR CITIZENS PLAY ‘500’
When: 12:45 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 26; and the 1st, 3rd and 5th Thursday of every month
Where: Rice Lake Centre, 6900 137th Street N.
Details: Games begin at 12:45 p.m. Refreshments and coffee served. All senior citizens from the area invited. Contact: 651-592-0369 or barbconnolly1958@yahoo.com
HUGO SENIOR CLUB
When: 1 p.m. the 3rd Monday of every month
Where: Rice Lake Centre, 6900 137th Street N.
Details: Monthly meeting includes planning for future activities, followed by afternoon of games. Coffee and refreshments served. Contact: 651-592-0369 or barbconnolly1958@yahoo.com
CRIBBAGE
When: 12:45 p.m. the 4th Monday of every month
Where: Rice Lake Centre, 6900 137th Street N., Hugo
Details: Senior citizens from Hugo and surrounding area are invited to an afternoon of cribbage. Coffee and refreshments served.
Contact: 651-429-4413
CURRENT EVENTS
FALL FEST
When: Sept. 26-28
Where: Downtown White Bear Lake
Details: Celebrate the harvest season with shopping and dining specials, scarecrown stroll, live music, polka & pumpkins in the Park.
Contact: downtownwhitebearlake.com
12TH ANNUAL GLORIA’S SHORTEST MARATHON
When: 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 28
Where: Corner of Bald Eagle Ave. & 3rd St., White Bear Lake
Details: Fundraiser for the White Bear Area Food Shelf begins with a White Castle card feed followed by a one-block run/walk/roll. See regiustration information online.
Contact: whitebearfoodshelf.org
‘THE LOVE OF A DOG’ BOOK SIGNING
When: noon-2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28
Where: The Argyle Moose, 14755 Victor Hugo Blvd., Suite 110, Hugo
Details: Local author Jo Prouty signs her latest book.
2024 FALL FESTIVAL
When: 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Oct. 4-6
Where: Anoka County Fairgrounds
Details: Carnival, live music, haunted house, food vendors, kids activities, pumpkins, craft vendors, beer
garden, costume contest. Ticket information online. Contact: anokacountyfair.com/p/fall-festival2024
FOREST BATHING
When: 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, Oct. 5
Where: Wargo Nature Center
Details: Connect with nature through an immersive, meditative session of the Japenise practice of shinrin-yoku, with a certified guide. Registration information online.
Contact: anokacountyparks.com
Lexington Farmers Market
When: 3 to 6 p.m. Wednesdays
Where: Lexington Municipal Liquor Store front parking lot, 9271 Lake Drive
Details: Vendors selling veggies and fruit, baked goods, Maple syrup, tea and homemade gifts.
Contact: Karen Gregory 612-272-3386 or kgregory244@gmail.com
M/I HOMES: Goes ‘back to drawing board’ for Natures Refuge North concept
FROM PAGE 1
The new concept also reduces the number of tree removals from 4,700 to 3,300.
Larsen said the biggest change is the buffer between the proposed development and Arena Acres. The buffer is now up to 400 feet in some areas, versus the 50 to 160 feet previously. “They took the development and pushed it as far east as they could,” Larsen explained.
Perhaps one of the more controversial pieces of the development would be the connection of “Street C” to Andall Street. Larsen explained that Arena Acres was platted in 1981 and at the time, an outlot was platted for a future road connection to the east.
“This standard transportation practice has been implemented throughout the city, such as the Saddle Club connection to Fox Road and the St. Clair Estates connection to Hokah Drive and Sioux Lane,” Larsen elaborated. She added that the Lino Lakes Public Safety Department was also supportive of the connection for emergency response.
Resident Carol Featherstone is opposed to the idea and requested the Planning Commission remove the street connection from the plans. “Constructing the street would destroy a wetland and destroy 80 trees, some of which are maples that are 50 to 100 years old. Why would we want to do this if the street is not a necessity?”
Several commission members said they would like to see the Street C connection.
“In just about every development, we hear, ‘We don’t want it to connect to my existing development’ … I think it is important to have our neighborhoods connected,” Board Member Perry Laden said.
Board Member Isaac Wipperfurth said, “I understand it is not always ideal that a new development might come and connect to your neighborhood, but
there is already right-of-way there. It is already set aside to connect, and I think it is important to connect … No one really wants that connection until they want to use it, and it is not there.”
Root added, “This is something that has been in the books for 40 years, and it is something that public safety would like. Connecting neighborhoods is something we do consistently.”
Board Member Nate Vojtech also didn’t want to see the connection. “I am not in favor of putting high-density neighborhoods connected to lower-density neighborhoods,” he said.
Emily Becker, of M/I Homes, said they would simply “do what the city tells us to do” when it comes to the connection.
Under a PUD, the developer is granted some flexibility but in return must provide some public benefit. M/I Homes is requesting flexibility when it comes to corner lot widths and setbacks, right-ofway width on a collector road, and garage sizes. In return, public benefits include a conservation development that protects and enhances the on-site natural resources; main-level living villa homes with association-maintained areas; preserved wetlands; orderly transition from large lot single-family lots to villas; protection of the Woolan Park wetland complex; extension of sanitary sewer; multifunctional greenway corridor; and additional parkland dedication fees.
Wipperfurth said he didn’t like the new concept of
Saturday at 4:30 pm Parish Community Center 6995 Centerville Rd, Centerville Sunday at 8:30 am St. John’s Site 14383 Forest Blvd N, Hugo Sunday at 10:30 am Parish Community Center 6995 Centerville Rd, Centerville www.stgens.org 651‐429‐7937 761757
having all villa-style homes. “I like that there was some variety before,” he said. “That most likely is going to be exclusively seniors. I would like to see some typical single-family lots in here so there is a mix of different lot types.”
Larsen responded that Natures Refuge North should be thought of as the “second addition” to Natures Refuge, which contains other types of housing products. Board Member Neil Evenson said he was okay with only the villa product due to demand. The board had mixed feelings about the proposed garage sizes. Board Member Perry Laden said he had no problem with keeping garages small, as many villas are typically attractive to seniors, young professionals or people who only have one car. “If somebody feels these garages aren’t big enough, they don’t need to buy this product,” he said.
Board Member Suzy Guthmueller expressed concern regarding street width and garage size. “Why would you ever want a smaller garage?” she asked. “I think we always have to be cautious of building our streets too narrow.”
The City Council will have a chance to offer feedback on the concept plan next month.
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or quadnews@presspubs.com. To make changes or to advertise here, call at 651-407-1200. 793590 Celebrate Mass with
5:00
Another school year on the horizon
How is summer already over? It feels like two weeks ago I was turning in my last final for the school year and excited to enjoy another Minnesota summer. I hope everyone had a great break. Mine was eventful.
I took quite a few trips this summer. Two were “weekend getaways” and one was a week-long trip to Breckenridge, Colorado with my family. One of my weekend getaways was to my aunt’s house in Alexandria. I got to catch up with my cousins who live out of state and enjoy the lake life for a bit.
Madeline Dolby
The second weekend getaway was for the 4th of July. My family and I drove up to Duluth for the holiday weekend. We got there the morning of the fourth and wandered around the town till it was time to watch the fireworks from the hotel roof. The night of the Fourth, we stopped at an ice cream shop called Love Creamery in Canal Park. It was recommended to us by a local shop owner. She raved about how good the ice cream was, specifically the Goat Cheese Honeycomb flavor. I was not brave enough to try it, but the rest of my family had nothing but praise for it.
Colorado was an adventure. We stayed at a rental house in the mountains. My family and I tried to spend as much time as possible outside. We went hiking, white-water rafting and explored the town of Breckenridge. It was nice to slow down for a bit. I made a goal to stay off social media as much as possible during the trip too. The last year has been a bit hectic, and I think everyone in my family needed the much-needed R and R.
This fall, I will be going into my second year of graduate school at the University of St. Thomas. Surprisingly, I am ready to go back. I am excited to see my classmates and catch up with them about how their summers went. The program is a close group. Professors are understanding, knowledgeable and are genuine people that makes class enjoyable.
What I am most excited for this year is beginning my master’s project. My project consists of a 40-to50-page creative writing portfolio. My project must focus on one genre of writing and revolve around a central idea. Once my project is completed, my advisor and two other professors from the program will read through my work and provide feedback during a mini conference. There are three outcomes: pass with little revision, pass with heavy revision and fail.
For my project, I am leaning towards writing a collection in creative nonfiction, which is stories based on real life or personal experiences but with fictional characters or elements. Ever since I began writing my freshman year of college, I have gravitated towards creative nonfiction. I just have not decided on the general focus of the collection yet. There are so many possibilities, it is hard to narrow it down to just a single idea.
Not only am I excited to complete my last full year of graduate school, but I am also excited for hockey season to start. My family has invested in two pairs of season tickets this year. One set is for the University of Minnesota men’s team and the second set is for the University of St. Thomas men’s team. Once October rolls around, most of my weekends will be spent at the rink, and I cannot even begin to express how excited I am.
Madeline Dolby is an editor of the Shoreview Press. She can be reached at 651-431-1226 or shoreviewnews@ presspubs.com.
Patrons are part of the family
AMovers & Shakers
Mary Healy
s I approach my 20th year working within the Anoka County Library system, 10 of which have been as the manager of the Centennial branch, I find myself reflecting on our role within the community. Our mission is to provide access to ideas, information, and inspiration to everyone who walks through our doors. We are fortunate that many who come in are regulars, with some coming in every week and a few even visiting daily. We consider them part of the family.
Sadly, in recent months, we have lost two cherished family members: Gerri and Carl, both of whom have lived in this community for over 50 years. Gerri visited weekly to check out the latest mystery novels. In recent years, she brought her bridge club in to use the meeting room two to three times a month. Carl, with his love for westerns, would
Election season is considered to be from the filing deadline until the day of the election.
• Limited to 350 words.
Letters are free unless endorsing or opposing a candidate, party or question on the ballot.
greet me with a smile and the same answer every time I asked how he was: “I woke up today, Mary.” Their presence will be sorely missed. The absence of these familiar faces is a poignant reminder of the deep connections we form with our patrons. If you’re seeking a place to connect with neighbors, be yourself, explore your interests, or learn something new—a place where you can become a regular, where the staff will know your name and treat you like family—you have an open-ended invitation to our place.
As the temperatures get cooler, settle in by the fireplace with a newspaper, magazine, or a book. Make new friends at a free program like our monthly adult book club, weekly storytime, or a cooking class in our IQ Kitchen. Truly make yourself at home and reserve the kitchen for your own lunch meeting, holiday baking marathon, or for trialing new recipes. Celebrate a special occasion or invite your girl scout troop, networking group, or nonprofit organization over for larger gatherings in our Community Room. The room accommodates up to 75 people and is available
from 8 a.m.- 9 p.m. for free reservations. Pull up a chair and get help learning to read with Reading Bridge and Read to a Dog (we promise he won’t eat your homework!). Experiment with a new skill and come to a quarterly 3D printing class or create your own design at home and have us print it for you. We’ve recently printed everything from fishing jigs and gaming accessories to holiday decorations.
It’s hard to believe that is has already been five years since we renovated and expanded to make room for the growing community at our “library family table”. I’m so proud of all that we’ve accomplished and very grateful for the patrons that have become part of the family.
Visit anokacountylibrary. org to make room reservations, register for programs, and learn more about all the resources and opportunities available at the library.
Mary Healy is a librarian and branch manager at the Centennial Library located in Circle Pines.
QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS | ELECTION LETTER GUIDELINES
number for verification.
Letter-writers must live, work or have another connection to Press Publications coverage area.
Endorsement/opposition letters will have a $50 fee. Please call 651-407-1200 to arrange payment by credit card or mail a check payable to Press Publications to 4779 Bloom Ave, White Bear Lake, MN, 55110. Endorsement/opposition letters are labeled, “paid letter.”
Submissions must include a full name, address and phone
Carter C. Johnson - Publisher cjohnson@presspubs.com
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Letters are meant to express opinions. If letter-writers include facts, they must attribute those facts to a reputable news source.
Due to space limitations, letters that don’t address local issues are not guaranteed publication. Repeat unpaid letters by the same writer about the same subject matter will not be published. Repeat paid endorsement letters will be
published as space permits.
Four weeks (or issues) must pass between publication of unpaid letters from the same writer. Exceptions may be made for rebuttal letters at the editor’s discretion. Submissions containing libelous or derogatory statements will not be published.
• Letters by campaign managers or candidates designed to champion the candidate’s position on a specific issue will be accepted as paid letters.
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All letters are subject to editing. We reserve the right to not publish any letter.
• The deadline to submit a letter is 5 p.m. Wednesday the week prior to publication. The last batch of letters to be printed before the Nov. 5 election will be printed in the Oct. 23 issue and must be received by 5 p.m. Wednesday, Oct.16. To submit a letter, email news@ presspubs.com or mail/deliver it to Press Publications.
Madeline’s Mail
LETTER
‘Politics of joy’
Over the past few weeks, I have received no fewer than six mailings on a local race. Quite frankly, I find these mailings disheartening.
I consider myself a moderate. Historically, I have voted across party lines based on a candidate’s position on the issues.
Of these six mailings I have received, three of them use the terms “weird,” “nuts” and “bananas.” While all six mailings are clearly for one candidate, the remaining three mailings use headlines: “Vote … by November 5th”; “… Shows up for our community”; and, most recently, “Which world do you want to live in?”
It is interesting that all of these mailings state, “This is an independent expenditure prepared and paid for by the …. It is not coordinated with or approved by any candidate nor is any candidate responsible for it.”
There have been two paid letters in the Quad Press in recent weeks. While I will refrain from expressing whether I agree or disagree, with their contents, at least the authors refrain from using offensive (pun intended) language.
How refreshing it would be if this race could be won by expounding the merits of a candidate rather than by using attack ads.
If only one could find, as former Vice President Hubert Humphrey once coined, some hint of “politics of joy” within the local race.
Chris Bretoi Lino Lakes
Lexington Fall Fest and Open House
PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES
CITY OF CIRCLE PINES, MINNESOTA
NOTICE OF HEARING ON DELINQUENT UTILITIES
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN:
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the City Council will meet at 7:00 p.m. on October 08, 2024, at City Hall, 200 Civic Heights Circle, Circle Pines, Minnesota to consider, and possibly approve, the proposed certification, to the County Auditor for collection with other taxes, unpaid charges for storm sewer, sanitary sewer, water, and garbage, refuse and recycling charges. Written or oral objections will be considered at the meeting.
If, after the hearing, the City Council finds that the amounts claimed as delinquent are due and unpaid, the city may certify the unpaid charges to the County Auditor for collection as other taxes are collected.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, a disabled individual may one week in advance contact City Hall by phone at (763) 784-5898, or TDD (763) 231-2617; or in writing to request reasonable assistance to be able to participate in these proceedings.
Patrick Antonen, City Clerk
Dated: September 19, 2024
Published one time in the Quad Community Press on September 24, 2024.
CITY OF CIRCLE PINES, MINNESOTA
NOTICE OF HEARING ON PROPOSED ASSESSMENT
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN:
of evidence or testimony presented to the Council.
5. The entire proceedings will be digitally recorded.
6. At the close of the presentation of evidence, the objector may make a final presentation to the Council based on the evidence and the law. No new evidence may be presented at this point.
7. The Council may adopt the proposed assessment at the hearing.
An owner may appeal the assessment to the district court pursuant to Minnesota Statutes Section 429.081 by serving notice of the appeal upon the Mayor or Clerk of the City within 30 days after the adoption of the assessment; and filing such notice with the district court within ten days after service upon the Mayor or Clerk.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, a disabled individual may one week in advance contact City Hall by phone at (763) 784-5898, or TDD (763) 231-2617; or in writing to request reasonable assistance to be able to participate in these proceedings.
Patrick Antonen, City Clerk
Dated: September 19, 2024
Published one time in the Quad Community Press on September 24, 2024.
CITY OF CIRCLE PINES
NOTICE OF PUBLIC ACCURACY TEST
CITY OF LINO LAKES
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning & Zoning Board of the City of Lino Lakes, Minnesota will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, October 9, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Lino Lakes City Hall, 600 Town Center Parkway, Lino Lakes, Minnesota, to consider the following:
• Lino Retail 2.0
- PID #08-31-22-42-0024, 08-31-22-42-0023, 08-31-22-43-0001, 08-31-22-43-0002, 08-31-22-43-0004, 08-31-22-43-0006 - Zoning Ordinance Map Amendment (Rezoning) from NB, Neighborhood Business to GB, General Business - Preliminary Plat for three (3) lot commercial development - Conditional Use Permit and Site & Building Plan Review for auto repair - minor
For further information regarding the above items, please contact City Planner, Katie Larsen, at 651-982-2426.
Anyone wishing to be heard regarding these items will be given the opportunity at the time of the hearing. If you have any questions or need special accommodations, please call 651-982-2400.
Roberta Colotti, CMC
City Clerk
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Council will meet at 7:00 p.m. on October 08, 2024, at City Hall, 200 Civic Heights Circle, Circle Pines, Minnesota to pass upon the proposed assessment for delinquent accounts. The proposed assessment roll is on file for public inspection at the City Clerk’s office. The total amount of the proposed assessment is $13,500.00 Written or oral objections will be considered at the meeting. No appeal may be taken as to the amount of an assessment unless a signed, written objection is filed with the Clerk prior to the hearing or presented to the presiding officer at the hearing. The Council may, upon such notice, consider any objection to the amount of a proposed individual assessment at any adjourned meeting upon such further notice to the affected property owners, as it deems advisable. If an assessment is contested or there is an adjourned hearing, the following procedure will be followed:
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a public accuracy test of vote counting equipment to be used in the November 5, 2024 General Election will be held on Thursday, October 10, 2024 at 10:00 AM at Circle Pines City Hall, 200 Civic Heights Circle, Circle Pines, MN 55014.
Published one time in the Quad Community Press on September 24, 2024. OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE
CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME
ads to run ONE TIME, the week beginning 9/22/2024 Metro
1. The City will present its case first by calling witnesses who may testify by narrative or by examination, and by the introduction of exhibits. After each witness has testified, the contesting party will be allowed to ask questions. This procedure will be repeated with each witness until neither side has further questions.
2. After the City has presented all its evidence, the objector may call witnesses or present such testimony as the objector desires. The same procedure for questioning the City’s witnesses will be followed with the objector’s witnesses.
If you would like to witness this demonstration, you are welcome to do so at the above mentioned location.
Chandra Peterson, Assistant City Administrator for Public Services
Published one time in the Quad Community Press on September 24, 2024.
CITY OF LINO LAKES
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning & Zoning Board of the City of Lino Lakes, Minnesota will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, October 9, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Lino Lakes City Hall, 600 Town Center Parkway, Lino Lakes, Minnesota, to consider the following:
• Spargur Estates
- Property Address: 559 Lois Lane
- PID #08-31-22-24-0005
- Preliminary plat for four (4) lot residential subdivision
- Variance for lot depth
For further information regarding the above items, please contact City Planner, Katie Larsen, at 651-982-2426.
MDAN ads to run ONE TIME, the week
Pursuant to Chapter 333, Minnesota Statutes; the undersigned, who is or will be conducting or transacting a commercial business in the State of Minnesota under an assumed name, hereby certifies:
1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is: Mabel’s Crafted Popcorn Company
2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 3895 86TH LN NE CIRCLE PINES MN 55014
3. The name and street address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name, including any corporation that may be conducting this business.
MABEL LLC 3895 86TH LN NE CIRCLE PINES MN 55014
I certify that I am authorized to sign this certificate and I further certify that I understand that by signing this certificate, I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.
Dated: August 8, 2024
Signed: Carmen Schmitz
beginning 9/22/2024 Metro
Anyone wishing to be heard regarding these items will be given the opportunity at the time of the hearing. If you have any questions or need special accommodations, please call 651-982-2400.
3. Counsel may represent the objector.
4. Minnesota rules of evidence will not be strictly applied; however, they may be considered and argued to the Council as to the weight of items
Roberta Colotti, CMC, City Clerk
Published one time in the Quad Community Press on September 24, 2024.
Published two times in the Quad Community Press on September 24 and October 1, 2024.
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PAUL DOLS | PRESS PUBLICATIONS
Lexington recently celebrated the end of summer and the beginning of the autumn season with a fall festival and fire department open house.
The Centennial Lake Police Department reports the following selected incidents:
• Police responded to a report of a suspicious vehicle Sept. 11 in the 10 block of West Road in Circle Pines.
• Police took a phone call Sept. 12 regarding a theft from a motor vehicle that occurred in the 100 block of Baldwin Drive in Circle Pines.
• Officers took a report of a theft Sept. 12 that had occurred in the 9200 block of South Hwy Drive in Lexington.
• Police responded to a report of a found bicycle Sept. 12 in the 1900 block of 72nd Street in Centerville.
• Officers responded to a report of suspicious activity Sept. 13 in the 9200 block of Lexington Avenue NE in Circle Pines.
• Officers responded to a phone call request Sept. 13 for a fraud report in the 9300 block of Ryan Place in Lexington. The case is pending further investigation.
The suspect was issued a citation for the offense.
• An officer took a report of suspicious activity Sept. 12 in the 2000 block of Norway Lane that could be a court order violation. The officer documented the incident, and the department will be providing extra patrols.
• An officer responded to a call of a suspicious vehicle Sept. 12 at a local church in the 100 block of Ash Street. After an investigation, the officer determined no crime had been committed.
• Officers attempted to serve an arrest warrant at a residence in the 400 block of Birch Street Sept. 12. The party with the warrant was not located.
• Officers and fire personnel responded to a report of a possible car accident involving injuries in the intersection of Ash Street and Interstate 35E Sept. 12. The officers found there was no accident and there were no problems in the area.
• A community service officer responded to a found cat Sept. 13 in the 500 block of Lonesome Pine Trail. The cat was transported to a local animal care center.
• A community service officer stopped two juveniles Sept. 14 on the shoulder of 6900 Centerville Road in Centerville for a welfare check.
• Officers were dispatched to the 80 block of East Road in Circle Pines Sept. 14 for a male and female yelling in the area. Officers located the involved parties and determined no crimes had been committed.
• An officer responded to a residence in the 6000 block of Foxtail Drive Sept. 14 on a report of disorderly juveniles. The officer was unable to make contact with the juveniles.
• Police responded to a single-vehicle accident in the 9700 block of Lake Drive in Circle Pines Sept. 14. The suspect fled the scene but was later found and arrested. The case is currently under investigation.
• A motor vehicle accident that occurred in the 7100 block of Mill Road in Centerville resulted in a DWI arrest.
• Officers were dispatched Sept. 16 to a report of suspicious activity in the 9400 block of Lexington Avenue in Lexington. When officer arrived, they did not find anything.
• Police received a report of a possible threat Sept. 16 in the 9400 block of Lexington Avenue in Lexington.
The Lino Lakes Police Department reports the following selected incidents:
• An officer documented a report of attempted fraud Sept. 10 in the 7200 block of Stagecoach Trail. There was no monetary loss to the victim.
• Officer and fire personnel responded to a complaint of an illegal burn Sept. 10 in the 8000 block of Rondeau Lake Road W. A fire was extinguished, and the homeowner was cited.
• An officer responded to a residence Sept. 10 in the 500 block of Henry Lane for a reported suspicious package that was delivered. The officer examined the parcel and documented the incident.
• An officer responded to a traffic complaint Sept. 11 in the 7700 block of Lake Drive that involved a school bus stop arm violation. The incident was investigated and forwarded to the city attorney.
• An officer responded to a report of an injured deer Sept. 11 in a roadway near Hodgson Road and Country Road J. The deer was dispatched.
• An officer responded to a report of suspicious activity Sept. 11 near Sunrise Drive and Glenview Drive. The incident was documented and extra patrol in the area will be furnished.
• A community service officer was dispatched to a dog that was found in a resident’s yard Sept. 11 in the 7100 block of Sunset Avenue. The dog was then brought to an animal hospital.
• An officer responded to a report of a motor vehicle versus deer accident Sept. 12 near the intersection of Lake Drive and Pine Street. The officer issued the necessary documents to the driver and deer removal was ordered.
• Officers assisted in monitoring roadways for a suspect who had fled from a scene in a neighboring city Sept. 12. The suspect was not immediately located.
• An officer responded to a report of theft Sept. 12 at a local retail store in the 700 block of Apollo Drive.
High school transitions to online learning amid pool issue
Centennial High School had to transition to a flexible learning day Sept. 18 due to an issue in the pool area.
• Officers responded to a welfare request Sept. 14 of a male lying on a walking trail near Hodgson Road and Egret Lane. Officers located the male and transported him home.
• An officer stopped a vehicle for a moving violation Sept. 14 in the 300 block of Main Street. After observing signs of impairment, the officer ended up arresting the driver for fourth-degree DWI. The driver was later charged.
• Officers responded to a possible fight in progress Sept. 15 in the 6900 block of Lake Drive. Three juvenile males were cited for curfew violations.
• Officers responded to a reported sexual assault Sept. 15 at a hotel in the 500 block of Apollo Drive. The officers spoke with the party involved, who reported that no assault or crime had been committed.
• An officer responded to a report of a suspicious person Sept. 15 in the 100 block of Morgan Lane. The officer investigated and found the individual was no longer in the area. Extra patrol was provided at the caller’s request.
• An officer responded to a local business Sept. 15 in the 600 block of Apollo Drive on a report of an alarm. The officer found the front door to be unsecure. The business was searched by police and a keyholder responded and secured the business.
• Officers were dispatched Sept. 15 to the 100 block of Elm Street after receiving a report of a male in and out of consciousness after huffing chemicals inside a vehicle The male was removed, evaluated by medical staff and arrested for DWI and obstructing with force.
• While on patrol Sept. 15 an officer stopped a vehicle in the 7500 block of Lake Drive for a traffic violation. After an investigation, the adult male driver was arrested for driving while impaired.
• Officers received a report of a juvenile that ran away from school Sept. 16. Officers located the juvenile and returned the youth back to school.
• An officer responded to a neighborhood Sept. 16 in the 7100 block of Whippoorwill Lane for a complaint of solicitors. The officer spoke with employees of a local business and learned they had a permit to solicit. The reporting party was advised by phone.
• An officer responded to a report of a large number of vehicles parked on a street Sept. 16 in the 600 block of Barbara Lane. The officer investigated and found the vehicles were legally parked and there were no problems.
• An officer responded to a report of property damage Sept. 16 that had occurred in the 600 block of Marshan Lane. The suspect was identified, and arrangements were made to repair the damages.
At approximately 9:30 a.m. the district was given the OK to resume normal in-person school operations from the fire department. After-school evening activities, except for swimming, were given the green light to continue that afternoon, with in-person classes the next day, Thursday, Sept. 19. PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEF
Fire departments responded to the pool area around 7 a.m. for a
report of a 100-gallon chlorine leak in the east pool area.
A statement released by the district read in part, “The safety of our students and staff is the first priority. The decision to implement our district’s flexible learning plan allows us to provide learning opportunities virtually while addressing the situation in our building.”
YOUNG LIFE: Provides hope, support system to Centennial High School students
She says Young Life can be summed up in one word — relationships. “Peer leaders will be going to football games, showing up at school plays, going to speech team meets and just becoming kind of part of the fabric of the environment that kids are in, jumping into their worlds,” Drayer explained. “Showing up on kids’ turf, being in their world with them and then being there to support them in the hard times and celebrating the good times.”
Young Life is also about fostering meaningful relationships with peers.
“Our hope is that kids can find a place where they can belong …” Balck said. “Kids that don’t feel connected can come and meet new friends and build a community of support ... Instead of feeling lost and like their problems are too big, they have people they can talk to and reach out to.”
In addition to the regular club meetings, Young Life also hosts a variety
IF YOU GO:
What: CAYL Trivia Night Fundraiser
When: 7 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12
of events. Over the summer, the club hosted a bonfire, pool party and a meal at a local restaurant. Most recently, the group met at Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park in Centerville for a “color war.”
This October, the club will host a fundraiser for adults to raise money (see info box for additional details). In November, Young Life will bring a group to a Young Life camp called “Castaway Club” in Detroit Lakes. There will be another opportunity for Young Life participants to attend a weeklong camp at another Young Life Camp somewhere in the U.S. this summer.
Currently, there is only a high school chapter, but the hope is to expand to serve the middle school population as well.
For more information about Centennial Area Young Life, visit cayl. younglife.org.
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or quadnews@presspubs.com.
Where: Trappers Bar & Grill, 6810 Lake Drive, Lino Lakes
Details: Join Centennial Area Young Life for its first-ever Trivia Night. Teams of 10-12 will put their brains together to compete against other teams. Trivia questions will be on a variety of topics. At the end of the evening, guests will get to hear more about the work that Young Life is doing in the Centennial area. Teams are encouraged to wear a team costume. To register, visit https://mn110.younglife.team/ trivianight2024.
Contact: jessdrayeryl@gmail.com
Cougar Homecoming
WEEKLY WAG
Rella is affectionate, intelligent and playful. She is a 2-year-old Great Dane/pit bull terrier mix, and she weighs about 77 pounds. Rella is social with dogs and cats, and she is friendly to everyone she meets, although she tends to be a little cautious with new people at first.
Being a large breed, she has a moderate energy level, but she does like a good walk and to play with her toys. Rella is leash-trained, crate-trained and housetrained. She also knows
her basic commands, but a formal training program would be good activity for Rella and her new forever family.
In the meantime, she loves treats and is willing to learn whatever she needs to be granted one … or two … Rella also likes to be around her people and is always close by. She would do great in a house or even in an apartment or townhome.
Rella arrived at Ruff Start Rescue from a local impound. If you are interested in learn-
ing more about Rella or adopting her, fill out an application at www. ruffstartrescue.org.
Recently, the group met at Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park for a “color war.”
PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
Currently there is only a high school chapter. The hope is to add a middle school chapter too.
The Centennial area celebrated homecoming with a parade, featuring the Centennial Cougars Marching Band, Centennial Fire District and the Cougar mascot.
LEXINGTON CITY COUNCIL SNIPPETS
• Tim Bicknell, an architect at MSA Professional Services and Lexington City Engineer Steve Winter presented the remodel project for the Memorial Park bathrooms. There are two possible plans for the project. One would refurbish the current space without changing the layout. The second plan would redesign the current space to be accessible to those with disabilities. Council expressed interest in the second option. It will cost around $16,800 for the design. Res-
idents raised concerns about the cost of the remodel. They suggested having volunteers, plumbers or other professionals do the job for a reduced cost. The council expressed that this would not comply with state code. Council Member Mike Murphy withheld from approving on the contract, agreeing with residents that the project is too expensive.
• Chipotle has shown interest in leasing space in the near future at the Northway Shopping Center accord-
RATE INCREASE NOTICE
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS FOR CENTERPOINT ENERGY MINNESOTA CUSTOMERS
CenterPoint Energy Minnesota Gas has requested approval from the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (MPUC) to increase natural gas distribution service rates in 2024 and 2025. The requested increase is approximately 6.5% or $84.6 million for 2024 and approximately 3.7% or $51.8 million for 2025. The requested increase will add about $5.91 to a standard monthly bill of a residential customer in 2024 and an additional $2.58 to a standard monthly bill of a residential customer in 2025.
CenterPoint is requesting this rate change to accommodate the increased expense to operate, maintain and deliver natural gas through our distribution system. CenterPoint continues to make meaningful investments to support the advancement of low and zero-carbon technologies and maintain the safety and integrity of its natural gas distribution system that benefits our customers and communities. These investments include infrastructure projects to replace or upgrade existing pipelines, provide safe and reliable service and comply with federal pipeline regulations. The MPUC may either approve or deny the requested changes or may approve a lesser or greater increase than was requested for any customer class or classes of service.
The MPUC will likely decide on the requested rate increase by early 2025. If final rates are higher than interim rates, customers will not be charged for the difference during the time the customer is billed for the interim rate. The customer may be charged for the difference between a lower interim rate and a final higher rate beginning on the date that final rates are ordered by the MPUC.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Administrative Law Judge Ann O’Reilly will hold four in-person public hearings and two virtual public hearings so that customers have an opportunity to comment on the company’s request. Any CenterPoint customer or other person may attend or provide comments at the hearings. You are invited to comment on the adequacy and quality of CenterPoint’s service, the level of rates or other related matters. You do not need to be represented by an attorney. The hearings will begin at their scheduled time and end after everyone present has had an opportunity to comment or ask questions.
Public hearings schedule
Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2024 6 p.m.
Thursday, Oct. 17, 2024 6 p.m.
Monday, Oct. 21, 2024 6 p.m.
Hennepin Technical College 9000 Brooklyn, Blvd, Room 193/195 Brooklyn Park, MN 55445
Blue Earth County Historical Society 424 Warren St., Room A Mankato, MN 56001
University of Minnesota Urban Research and OutreachEngagagement Center (UROC) 2001 Plymouth Ave. N., Room 105 Minneapolis, MN 55411
Tuesday, Oct. 22, 2024 6 p.m. Central Lakes College 501 W. College Drive, Room C236 Brainerd, MN 56401
Friday, Oct. 18, 2024 1 p.m. Virtual Webex
Thursday, Oct. 24, 2024 6 p.m. Virtual Webex
Bad weather? Find out if a hearing is canceled – call (toll free) 855-731-6208 or 651-201-2213 or visit mn.gov/puc.
Virtual Public Hearings
Public hearings have been scheduled as follows to be held via video conference. Friday, Oct. 18, 2024, at 1 p.m. and Thursday, Oct. 24, 2024, at 6 p.m
Attend by Internet Connection (Audio and Video)
To join the virtual hearing using a computer, tablet or smart phone, where you will have audio and video capability, go to: https://minnesota.webex.com. In the gray box where it says,“Enter Meeting Information,” type the Event Number below for the public hearing date you are attending:
Directions for Commenting Through Webex
• Log on 5-to-15 minutes before the hearing begins. You will be asked to join the hearing through a Webex application or through a plug-in for your web browser.
• Enter the Event Number shown in the box above.
• Then, enter your name, email address and an event password (if required). Click “Join Now” to be granted access to the virtual hearing.
• When you enter the hearing, your microphone will be muted. If you would like to ask a question or comment during the meeting, use the chat function to send a message to the meeting moderator. You will be placed in the queue to comment. When it is your turn to comment, your name will be called and your line will be unmuted. You will be able to ask questions or comment on the proposal.
Attend by Telephone (Audio Only)
You do not need internet access to join the hearing by telephone. However, you will only be able to hear (not see) the speakers. You will still be able to comment and ask questions. Use the information in the box below to call into the hearing. You will be asked to enter the access code for the hearing:
ing to one of the property owners. This could lead to more prospective tenants of national chains to also rent space down the line.
The next City Council meeting will be at 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 3 at City Hall.
If you would like to ask a question or comment during the hearing, press *3 on your telephone. You will be placed into the queue to comment. When it is your turn to speak, the last few digits of your telephone number will be announced by the moderator and your line will be unmuted, allowing you to be heard by all participants.
Public Hearing and Process Information
Administrative Law Judge Ann O’Reilly will preside over the public hearings and will provide the Commission with findings of fact, conclusions of law and recommendations after the conclusion of the evidentiary hearing.
The purpose of the public hearings is to receive public input on the proposed rate increase. At the public hearings, interested persons have the opportunity to: (1) ask questions of the utility and agency staff; and (2) offer verbal and written comments on the merits of the proposed rate increase. Members of the public may participate without needing to intervene as a party. Representation by legal counsel is permitted but not required.
Please note that the public hearings will end when all attendees present have had the opportunity to comment and all other business has been concluded. You are encouraged to join the meeting at the scheduled start time to be placed in the queue to comment. Commenters will be called in the order they enter the queue. Therefore, it is best to arrive at the beginning of the hearing.
Written comments may be submitted during the comment period beforeand after the public hearings. Follow the instructions below to provide written comment.
Contact Ashley Marcus at 651-201-2192 or ashley.marcus@state.mn.us if you have questions on how to participate or have trouble accessing the public hearing remotely.
WRITTEN COMMENTS TO THE MINNESOTA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION
You can still submit comments even if you do not attend a public hearing. Comments will be accepted through Dec. 20, 2024, at 4:30 p.m.
• Comments must be received by 4:30 p.m. on the close date.
• Comments received after the comment period closes may not be considered.
How to Submit a Written Comment
Written comments can be submitted via: (1) the Commission’s eComments website; (2) electronic mail; (3) U.S. Mail; or (4) facsimile. To learn how to submit a written comment, visit mn.gov/puc/, select “Get Involved” from the dropdown menu at the top of the page and then select “Public Comments and How to Participate.” This will take you to the Commenting in a PUC Docket page, where you will find a list of ways to comment. Be sure to reference PUC Docket Number 23-173 in the subject line of your comment.
If you do not have access to the internet, you may send or deliver your comment to: Minnesota Public Utilities Commission 121 7th Place East, Ste. 350 St. Paul, MN 55101
For assistance in submitting comments, or if you have questions, contact the Commission’s Consumer Affairs Office at:
Phone: 651-296-0406 or 800-657-3782
Email: consumer.puc@state.mn.us
Be sure to reference Docket Number 23-173
Important: Comments can be reviewed by the public on the MPUC’s website, except in limited circumstances consistent with the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act. The MPUC does not edit or delete personally identifying information or any other information from comments received.
EVIDENTIARY HEARINGS
The purpose of the evidentiary hearings is to allow CenterPoint, the Minnesota Department of Commerce, the Minnesota Office of Attorney General – Residential Utilities Division and parties who have formally joined the contested case, to present testimony and to cross-examine each other’s witnesses on the proposed rate increase.
Formal evidentiary hearings on CenterPoint’s proposal will be held on Dec. 18, 19, and 20, starting at 9:30 a.m. each day. The evidentiary hearings will be held in Public Utilities Commission Small Hearing Room, 121 7th Place, St. Paul, Minnesota. The parties may stipulate to some witnesses appearing via Microsoft Teams.
The parties shall arrange with Commission staff to obtain a video conference link. Members of the public who wish to attend the hearing may do so in person. If they would like to attend virtually through Teams, they may request an electronic invitation by contacting Judge O’Reilly’s legal assistant at michelle.severson@state.mn.us. If you wish to formally intervene in this case, as a party to the litigation, you must serve and file a Petition to Intervene, pursuant to MN Rules. 1400.6200.
TO LEARN MORE
Current and proposed rate schedules for CenterPoint Energy Minnesota Gas are available at:
CenterPoint Energy 505 Nicollet Mall
Minneapolis, MN 55402
Phone: 612-372-4727 or 800-245-2377
Web: CenterPointEnergy.com/RateCase
Minnesota Department of Commerce 85 7th Place East, Suite 500
St. Paul, MN 55101
Phone: 651-539-1534
Web: https://www.edockets.state.mn.us/EFiling/search.jsp
Select 23 in the year field, type 173 in the number field, select Search and the list of documents will appear on the next page.
The MPUC is asking customers to comment on CenterPoint Energy’s request for a rate increase. Send comments to the MPUC’s Consumer Affairs Office (CAO) or contact the CAO for assistance with submitting comments:
Minnesota Public Utilities Commission 121 7th Place East, Suite 350
St. Paul, MN 55101
Phone: 651-296-0406 or 800-657-3782
Email: consumer.puc@state.mn.us
Persons with hearing or speech disabilities may call through their preferred Telecommunications Relay Service.
Hannah Testa
Lino Lakes weighs in on Wilkinson Waters concept
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
LINO LAKES — Wilkinson Waters LLC is proposing a development located on North Oaks Farm Inc. property. The parcels are located south of County Road J/ Ash Street/CSAH 32, west of Centerville Road/ CSAH 21 and north of Wilkinson Lake Boulevard.
The development contains four parcels totaling approximately 76 gross acres and comprises a mix of residential housing types and commercial development.
Wilkinson Waters LLC has submitted a land use application for a planned unit development (PUD) concept plan review.
City Planner Katie Larsen explained that North Oaks Company LLC submitted a PUD concept plan for review in September 2015. The concept plan included two parcels totaling 46 gross acres and consisted of a residential mix of single-family homes, twin homes and senior housing rentals totaling 136 to 161 housing units. The proposed development did not meet density requirements and did not move forward.
This time around, the proposed land uses include approximately 33,000 square feet of commercial retail space; two, three-story 100-unit market rate multifamily buildings (including clubhouse, large communal green space and additional amenities); 34 rental townhome units; 22 for-sale townhome units; and one four-story, 100-unit senior living facility.
Larsen explained that the total number of housing units proposed is 356. Because there are both shoreland overlay district restrictions in play plus the city’s comprehensive plan, density gets a bit complicated, but Larsen said essentially it would come down to a max unit count of 348 units. If the proposal included some affordable housing units, that density could go up slightly.
The residential development transitions from townhomes near Wilkinson Lake and Ash Street to the apartments adjacent to Centerville Road. The
senior living building would also be near Wilkinson Lake. Trails, sidewalks and stormwater ponds are included throughout the development. Wilkinson Waters is proposing approximately 4.1 acres of commercial development in the southeast quadrant of the site adjacent to Centerville Road and Wilkinson Lake Boulevard. The concept plan shows three commercial building pads ranging from 9,100 to 10,850 square feet each.
Larsen said city staff would like to see the developer move the senior building closer to Centerville Road. “That would provide a better transition from the less-intense (density) townhomes near the lake and wetlands to the higher-intense apartments near the arterial roads,” She explained.
Under a PUD, the developer is granted some flexibility but in return must provide some public benefit. Wilkinson Lakes is requesting flexibility when it comes to building height for both the senior building and two apartment buildings. Buildings within the shoreland district have a maximum permitted height of 36 feet. The developer is also seeking flexibility to offer 550-square-foot studio apartments, whereas a minimum of 700 square feet would typically be required. In return, Wilkinson Lakes plans to offer more open space, a strong greenway/trail corridor, a variety of lot sizes and home types, preservation of wetlands, lifecycle housing and a commercial component. Larsen said that 78% of the development is proposed to be open space.
If the development moves past the concept level, Larsen said the city would require an environmental assessment worksheet due to its proximity to lakes and wetlands. A traffic study would also be required.
Larsen compared the project to the Lyngblomsten project located on the corner of Hodgson Road and County Road J. “It’s an example of what our gateway (entrance) could look like … it took a lot of work to get there,” she said.
Planning Commission member Perry
Laden said he would be in favor of the studio apartments and that he didn’t have a problem with the proposed building heights. “With this being a gateway and the retail there, we would be looking for a higher standard of architecture,” he said.
Planning Commission member Isaac Wipperfurth added that it would be important for the gateway to contain commercial. “I don’t think we would want to bend on that,” he said. For that reason, he said he would prefer not to see the senior building relocated closer to the arterial streets. “I’m afraid that is going to cause some of that commercial development area to be minimized or it is going to push some of these larger buildings closer to the single-family residential, which I also am opposed to.”
He said he also had a problem with the proposed density. “We are cramming a lot into this little site,” he said. “I would like to see about 100 units less.”
Planning Commission member Nate Vojtech added, “This is a really small area that may be too dense already … I think that is a lot of people to put in a little space.” He also commented that he disagreed with moving the senior building closer to the street. “It seems backwards to me.”
Vojtech suggested that having all of the city’s “tallest buildings” located right at gateway entrances might not be the approach the city wants to take.
Planning Commission members Patrick Kohler and Suzy Guthmueller said they liked the proposed location of the
senior building. “I think it would tie well into what is already existing there with the senior home already there,” Guthmueller said.
Mark Houge, president of North Oaks Company, responded, “Waverly Gardens is the vision for what we want to try to relate this to, so it looks like it is part of the same development even though they are in two different cities.” He added that they would prefer to see the senior building be three stories, but “to make the economics work,” Waverly Gardens would like to see a four-story building. Houge explained that if the proposal moves forward, several partners would be involved, including a partner for the market-rate apartments, Waverly Gardens for the senior housing, a partner for the for-sale housing units and another partner for the commercial retail. “We are typically land developers, but we are venturing into this,” he said.
Kohler wanted to know more about the timeline for construction and project phasing. Houge explained that they would likely start with the apartment building, which could take up to 18 to 24 months, followed by the townhomes. The commercial would be last. “We have to get the rooftops there to support the commercial,” he said.
The City Council will have a chance to offer feedback on the concept plan next month.
Managing
The proposed land use includes almost 33,000 square feet of commercial retail space and mutliple residential buildings.
Safety first: A bus safety Q&A with Centennial school bus driver John Trojanowski
BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER
Safety is a critical component of getting students to and from school. Bus drivers are tasked with maintaining a secure environment where kids can ride danger-free. However, these rides are seldom problem-free; issues can always arise immediately and put students’ safety at risk, ranging from COVID-19 to bullying and concerns over environmental safety. Press Publications spoke with John Trojanowski, a longtime bus driver for the Centennial School District, about how he and the district tackle these safety issues head-on.
Q: How does the district address concerns about COVID-19, and how does its procedure compare during and after the pandemic?
A: During the pandemic, the district was very concerned about us ensuring that our buses were clean and had good airflow. We would use a chemical spray to kill germs and keep the top hatches halfway open to get a good flow around the bus. We also had a seating chart of where every kid sat, so if one of them came down with COVID, we would note who was near them and what time of day that kid was on the bus. We all wore masks during that time, which the schools provided. After the pandemic, our procedures have returned to how they were before. Since then, however, we have kept the hatches open when possible. The dis-
trict found that maintaining good ventilation on the bus was the number one key to keeping people healthy during their ride. During the summer, we get high school students to help clean the inside of the buses so we can keep them neat.
Q: How do you try to minimize bullying and harassment on your buses?
A: The best tactic I’ve found is for our drivers to get to know their students. My experience has been that the more you become in tune with them, the more their behavior changes drastically because of how much each side knows the other. I’ve practiced this for about eight years and have not witnessed any bullying on my buses. If an issue were ever to happen, the first thing to do would be to pull the bus over. Once you do that, you have to try and talk down the bully and get them to calm down. If that doesn’t work, the next step is to contact dispatch or law enforcement to help break it up, depending on how bad it is. We always fill out a report that we bring to the school to inform them
about the incident.
Q: According to a 2019 New York Lawyers for the Public Interest article, school buses nationwide emit 8.4 million metric tons of carbon pollution annually. How does the district minimize environmental damage caused by diesel exhaust from the buses?
A: We use diesel emission fluid to help clean the emissions that are being put out. Our newer buses run a lot cleaner, too. We also try to limit the amount of idling we do when we pull up to the school to reduce emissions. However, in very cold weather where temperatures can drop below zero, we have to let them run for a little bit, otherwise they won’t go forward. Although there has been a lot of talk about switching to electric buses, the batteries they use wouldn’t be able to handle the cold weather or charge well.
Q: Why do Centennial school buses not have seatbelts, and how does the district still watch out for students’ safety in the event of an accident?
A: The reason we don’t
have seatbelts is because the seat frames don’t have anything to mount the belts themselves onto. Whenever we do our yearly inspections, the highway patrol checks the seats to make sure they have enough foam on them in case an accident were to happen. We can be fined if the inspection reveals we have poorly padded seats, so we have to be really careful about it. They also inspect to make sure that everything else on the bus is functioning correctly, like our lights and crossing arms. Thankfully, I’ve never been in an accident where the bus has flipped on its side, and I hope I never do hear of it happening elsewhere.
Q: What concerns are there about bus visibility?
A: During the school year, people get used to seeing buses all the time, so they know when to stop. But after summer comes by where you don’t see any buses for those three months, you’ll probably see more stop arm violations than you have all year long because people forgot the buses even came through the neighborhood. Most of it happens on the very first day. Once they see the buses every day, though, people get back into the routine of being more careful.
Erik Suchy is a staff writer at Press Publications. To reach him, please contact him at 651-407-1229 or email at whitebearnews@presspubs.com.
CONTRIBUTED
Centennial school bus driver John Trojanowski spoke to Press Publications about how both he and the school district tackle bus safety issues.
VOTERS’ GUIDE 2024
Matt Norris (DFL)
Age: 35
City of residence: Blaine
Occupation: Attorney
List 3 most recent civic involvement
roles:
Commissioner, Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission (governing body of the National Sports Center)
• Member, Blaine Festival Committee
• Volunteer Attorney, Children’s Law Center
Q. What are your top three priorities for the state?
A. My top priority if I’m re-elected is making life more affordable for Minnesotans. I’m especially focused on “the three cares:” child care, health care and senior care. All three are such big budget items for families, and, if we can bring down the cost of these expenses, it leaves more room for gas, groceries and more.
I’m also focused on making our neighborhoods safer. Let’s support police with the tools they need and fund strategies that
Janelle Calhoun (DFL)
Age: 48
City of residence: Lino Lakes
Occupation: Former nonprofit director
List 3 most recent civic involvement
roles:
• Executive Director at Rein in Sarcoma
Local community volunteer
• Active in church (Living Waters)
Q. What are your top three priorities for the state?
A. Robust education for every child. Funding Centennial School District more fairly, bringing the funds our district receives into parity with other similar-sized districts. Supporting teachers and administrators so they have the tools they need to be successful.
Quality healthcare that doesn’t leave anyone bankrupt. As the daughter of two pharmacists, I am acutely aware how important accessibility and affordability of healthcare is. Our system is failing Minnesotans every day. We have the
Elliott Engen (R)
Age: 25
City of residence: Lino Lakes
Occupation: State Representative, formerly Prosecution Assistant and NGO coordinator.
List 3 most recent civic involvement roles:
• State Legislator
Special Olympics Minnesota
• School safety policy leader
Q. What are your top three priorities for the state?
A. Having just completed my first term serving you in the MN house, I can say with sincerity and certainty, that under full Democrat control, the state government existed to serve itself and the political class instead of you- the voters we are elected to serve.
When I’m out at the doors, I’m hearing from our neighbors that their top concerns are lowering the costs that are pushing family budgets to the brink, restoring educational excellence,
MINNESOTA HOUSE DISTRICT 32B: ELECT 1
have proven to prevent crime, especially for youth.
Lastly, let’s make sure every student succeeds in our schools. I believe we achieve this by setting high standards and focusing on developing strong school leaders.
In my first term I proved I could get big things done, like securing $103 million for Highway 65 or passing two property tax cuts, while also being in the top three for bipartisan bills in the House.
Q. If elected, how will you involve the public in making major decisions?
A. My first term showed my emphasis on engaging the public. I personally respond to every email from Blaine and Lexington residents. I also knock thousands of doors, even in years when I’m not running for election, I hold town halls in the community. I always say, “While I can’t promise I’ll agree with you, I always promise to listen.”
I also love working with residents from my district on bills. This past year, a dad and daughter from Blaine came to me describing challenges getting space in school for students to do video-conference appointments with their therapists. So, I got to work, and we passed a bill to fix it! I’m currently working with residents on a number of bills that I hope to get passed if I’m
CANDIDATE ALEX MOE DID NOT RESPOND
responsibility to make sure everyone gets the care they need without devastating financial consequences.
A clean, resilient environment, for the next generation. The natural beauties of our district are public treasures. The time is now to invest in smart, sustainable infrastructure to keep our community prepared for the future. The deployment of new, advanced green technologies would be a priority of mine should I be elected. We also need to get serious about protecting and preserving our water.
Q. If elected, how will you involve the public in making major decisions?
A. Good communication, and listening is a priority of mine. Our diverse communities deserve a leader who listens, one that gets into the community and talks directly to our neighbors. I show up, and I will show up as your Representative– board meetings, community cookouts, church events, and public forums. I am a people person, one of my favorite things on this campaign has been getting to know our community and the people who are integral to it. I want to be a leader that is not only reachable, but is proactive to engage our neighbors in important decisions. I love this community, my neighbors, and all the voices that
and restoring public safety, including school safety.
That’s why I introduced legislation to directly address these issues in my first term like the SHIELD Act to ensure that our schools are the safest in the nation and other bills that eliminate sales taxes on infant care items and back to school supplies, fully and finally end the state taxes collected on Social Security income for our seniors, and hold criminals accountable.
Q. If elected, how will you involve the public in making major decisions?
A. As your State Representative, my door is always open to constituents, especially if and when their perspective differs from mine. This is key to the legislative process - I made a point to collaborate with legislators on both sides of the aisle in my first term in order to best represent the interests of our district, and I will continue to do that if given the privilege to continue representing you in a second term this November.
I also prioritize talking directly with voters so I can learn about what matters to them. I will have held nearly 20 town halls and local meet & greet events by November because of how critical it is to hear directly from our neighbors on key policy issues. One other tool I use to hear directly from
re-elected. Topics include promoting organ donation, improving disability services, and new recognition of Minnesotans’ military service.
Q. If elected, what legislation do you plan to support during your term and why?
A. In addition to the priorities I previously mentioned, I’ve heard from many voters who are facing skyrocketing homeowners and auto insurance bills. I plan to introduce legislation to find out what’s causing these dramatic increases and explore ways to make these essentials more affordable. I also plan to continue leading on efforts to protect Minnesota natural resources, especially preventing contamination from cancer-causing PFAS “forever chemicals.” Lastly, I plan to introduce several bills to help the many small businesses in our area. These bills fall into three categories: encouraging investment in Minnesota businesses, lowering costs and increasing government transparency.
Overall, I aim to continue my campaign theme of “building bridges and getting results” because I think voters want leaders who can bring together people from different backgrounds to get things done.
make our district so special.
Q. If elected, what legislation do you plan to support during your term and why?
A. Minnesota is in a strong position to become a leader in green technology and manufacturing. We have an internationallyrenowned research university, a strong community of organized skilled tradespeople, and millions in Federal grant dollars earmarked for state investment in clean technology and infrastructure. It will be a priority of mine to support this industry, create new, family-supporting jobs in this field, and deploy emerging green tech to public buildings like schools, police and fire stations, that will be not only better for our environment and our future, but will also save us energy costs. Another priority of mine will be to see that the state infrastructure bill is passed. This historically bipartisan bill includes urgently needed investments in wastewater treatment facilities, bridges, trails, fire departments and other local government needs. I was disappointed that my opponent did not support it and the legislature failed to pass it this year.
constituents is the Priorities Survey that is available on my website.
Q. If elected, what legislation do you plan to support during your term and why?
A. If given the opportunity to continue serving you in St. Paul, I will continue to ignore the political noise and introduce legislation that directly addresses the issues that matter most. For example, I will re-introduce the SHIELD Act to make our schools the safest in the nation. I will also author legislation that helps our local schools prioritize student achievement and focus on fixing our reading proficiency rates which are currently leaving 50% of kids unable to read at grade level.
I’ll also support a package of bills authored by my Republican colleagues in the House that will help clamp down on the rampant fraud we’ve seen in the state government over the past few years.
There are too many bills and important issues to mention in this answer, so I encourage you to read about what I accomplished in my first term on my website, ElliottEngen. com.
MINNESOTA HOUSE DISTRICT 36A: ELECT 1
VOTERS’ GUIDE 2024
D. Love
Age: Not provided City of residence: Centerville
Occupation: Claims team manager –State Farm Insurance/ Centerville Mayor List 3 most recent civic involvement roles:
I taught Sunday School at Eagle Brook Church. My wife and I announced the parade for several years. I coached youth basketball and football. I coached high school football for 5 years. I was a Planning and Zoning Commissioner, I have been on the City Council for 16 years, serving as mayor for five years. I served on the League of Minnesota Cities Insurance Trust for 12 years and the Executive Board for five years where I was honored to serve as president.
Q. What are your top three priorities for the city?
A. Economic development: We have had positive trending with business growth and housing. As we continue to grow, we are called to be strategic in our plans making sure the city develops with an eye on today as well as focusing on our future citizens.
Nancy Golden
Age: 54
City of residence: Centerville
Occupation: Midwest manager in the specialty pharmaceutical industry
List 3 most recent civic involvement roles:
Not provided
Q. What are your top three priorities for the city?
A. Revise the downtown master plan, with an eye towards smart and thoughtfully managed growth that does not rely on multi-story, high-density developments. Deeper community engagement and citizen involvement in
New districts explained
Anoka County Commissioner District 3 District 3 includes the cities of Lexington, Circle Pines, Lino Lakes, Centerville, Columbus and Linwood Township.
Quick Links:
View the elections home at mnvotes.gov
CENTERVILLE MAYOR: ELECT 1
Public safety: We spend over 50% of our budget making sure our citizens are safe and well taken care of. We are consistently assessing our model to determine if it remains the best model for us. With any change, we strive to determine if we will be able to maintain our high quality.
Community engagement and parks: We have many pathways to reach our citizens and are always searching for new innovative ways. We have saved money for park improvements but rising costs have pushed us behind. We are developing plans to make Centerville a place we are continually proud to call home.
Q. If elected, how would you involve the public in making major decisions?
A. Public Involvement: We have established many forms of communication which allows for involvement. We have a website, a mobile App., a newsletter which comes with the water bill and social media which includes Face Book and Twitter. We have an email listing of citizens and business owners which receives frequent updates. We have a reader board in front of city hall. We also utilize our local newspaper to reach as many citizens as possible. We are always open to new ideas to make connections with our community members.
future planning efforts.
Ensure that our business and entrepreneurial community has the resources and support they need to thrive.
Q. If elected, how would you involve the public in making major decisions?
A. Collaboration with our residents is key to addressing Centerville’s needs and desires. Events that have unfolded here over the past several months have demonstrated how important it is to bring citizens into discussions about our future, and too many of them feel left out or as if their voices don’t matter. I will implement initiatives that encourage open dialogue, such as “open mic” periods at every City Council meeting to give residents the opportunity to speak on any topic, and regularly scheduled community engagement forums, where citizens can chat one-on-one with city leaders and staff.
House District 32B District 32B includes the cities of Lexington, Columbus, Ham Lake and Blaine.
Register to vote or update your registration at mnvotes.gov/ register
My number and email address are also listed on the website which allows any citizen to reach out to me directly. We plan to review our downtown plan and soon after that our Comprehensive plan. We will invite members from the public to join the committees and we will also have planned public forums to share updates along the way.
Q. What can the City Council do in the next five years to help the city prosper?
A. As a council over the next five years, we will take the opportunity to engage the members of the public while also applying the knowledge and expertise of our advisers to make the best decisions for our city today and tomorrow. We have to establish plans strategically then have the commitment to see the plans through to fruition. We have to consistently review the plans to make sure they remain fresh and future focused. As opportunities present themselves, we have to be open, flexible, welcoming and professional. We have to listen to our citizens and use their feedback to make the best decisions for the entire community. We have to work with our schools to make sure they remain vibrant and healthy. We must make sure our public safety departments are well run and focused on providing friendly service and protection. We must continually recognize we are STRONGER TOGETHER!
Q. What can the City Council do in the next five years to help the city prosper?
A. The City Council can and must work collaboratively with residents and local businesses to ensure that we are pursuing a development vision that will enhance, not diminish, the history and character of our community. The current downtown master plan is nearly 20 years old and stagnant; it has not produced the promised results. Revising that plan and rezoning those properties accordingly will make space for new opportunities that are a better fit for the area. Smart, well-considered growth will enhance our community’s greatest assets – our spectacular lakes, parks and trails – and ensure that Centerville remains a great place to live, work and visit.
House District 36A District 36A includes the cities of Lino Lakes, Circle Pines, Centerville, North Oaks and White Bear Township.
Request an absentee ballot at mnvotes.gov/ absentee
View a sample ballot at mnvotes.gov/ myballot
Senate District 36 District 36 includes the cities of Lino Lakes, Circle Pines, Centerville, North Oaks, Vadnais Heights, White Bear Lake and White Bear Township.
Find your polling place at mnvotes.gov/ pollfinder
VOTERS’ GUIDE 2024
Anita Rios
Age: 62
City of residence: Centerville
Occupation: Talent management consultant, part-time; retired from a 35-year career in public higher education
List 3 most recent civic involvement roles: Served on several national/regional boards and received numerous service and leadership awards.
Q. What are your top three priorities for the city?
A. Rework Downtown Centerville Master Plan: My top priority will be to rework the outdated, failed downtown master plan and engage with residents to envision how we can capitalize on Centerville’s distinctive assets --its history, its lakes, parks, trails, and home-grown businesses, so that all future growth preserves our small town’s charm and character. Increase opportunities for citizen engagement: I will advocate
CENTERVILLE CITY COUNCIL : SPECIAL ELECTION
for increasing opportunities for citizen engagement and involvement in all future planning efforts, such as quarterly town hall meetings and facilitated discussions so that everyone who wants to have a voice can be heard.
Fiscal responsibility/accountability: I will prioritize wise decision making that keeps taxes as low as possible for Centerville residents, from city maintenance to development efforts.
Q. If elected, how would you involve the public in making major decisions?
A. I would like to establish quarterly engagement sessions with citizens to get their input on issues the city faces. These sessions could be facilitated roundtable sessions, listening sessions and town halls. I’m vested in helping city leaders and citizens work together towards a common good, rather than in opposition. Currently, the Centerville City Council does a good job of holding public hearings for major developments or rezoning; however, I am interested in changing up some of the rules of engagement to make those hearings more approachable for residents who are vested in issues and have an opinion, but don’t feel comfortable speaking in public.
CENTERVILLE CITY COUNCIL : ELECT 2
Russ Koski
Age: 60
City of residence: Centerville
Occupation: Account manager
List 3 most recent civic involvement roles:
I have served on the Centerville City Council for 7 1/2 years, deputy mayor for three years, P&Z Commission liaison and alternate representative to the North Metro Telecommunications Commission. I have attended the LMC conference and workshops. I attend Anoka County Government events, learning of county plans and how they affect Centerville while building relationships with local government decision makers. I have volunteered for the city of Centerville Fete des Lacs festival parade for seventeen years.
It has been my honor to serve on the Centennial Fire District Steering Committee for the past six years, three times as chairperson.
Q. What are your top three priorities for the city?
A. Keep public safety in the forefront of the city council and staff. Be open to all options as we plan and prepare for the city’s future needs. As public safety is approximately half of the city’s
David Kubat
Age: 40 City of residence: Centerville
Occupation: Attorney/Owner, Zimmer
Law Group Saint Paul
List 3 Most Recent Civic Involvement
Roles:
• Centerville Planning and Zoning Commission (Chair) – 2021-2023 Military Immigration Liaison, American Immigration Lawyers Association MN-DAK Chapter 2015-present
• Intelligence Officer, Minnesota Army National Guard 2008 – 2020
Q. What are your top three priorities for the city?
A. Taxes: I will work to limit tax burdens on residents by
Garland Port
Age: 27
City of residence: Centerville
Occupation: Software engineer
List 3 most recent civic involvement
roles: Not Provided
What are your top three priorities for the city?
1.Prevent high-density development and preserve Centerville’s small-town charm
2.Improve public safety and accountability
3.Enhance and maintain local parks and recreational facilities
budget, it is key to maintain a high level of service. Review future land use and development of available city properties to prevent losing the character of our community. Additional development and change are inevitable. Work to guide change and growth with a purpose that adds to and enhances our city.
Continue to attract additional businesses to the city to strengthen the tax base and provide needed goods and services. The costs of running city government, maintaining a high standard of public safety, quality streets and parks continue to escalate. As parks and trail systems are an asset to our city, they require maintenance and upgrades.
Q. If elected, how would you involve the public in making major decisions?
A. For years, I have been a proponent of citizen participation. In my view, the city belongs to the residents that live in it. Elected officials should serve as good stewards to the taxpayers. Centerville is a great community with many creative and thoughtful people living here. The more input, ideas and suggestions, the better the outcome. Resident attendance at any public meeting is something I encourage. Participation on committees and commissions is a great way to provide input in the decision-making process. I have proposed “town hall” type events in the past and will do so if reelected. This is a
strategic expansions of the tax base, careful fiscal management, and strategic partnerships for public services.
Communication: I will seek to modernize the city’s communications platforms to ensure all residents are heard on matters of public interest even if they cannot attend weeknight council meetings.
Revitalize the vision for Downtown Centerville: I will engage the council, city staff, and residents to study the long-term development goals for the city to ensure the vision works in the current economic environment and puts the interests of Centerville residents first.
Q. If elected, how would you engage the public in making major decisions?
A. Modernizing the communications platforms available to the city and residents of Centerville is one of my top priorities for the city. The traditional model of public hearings, held in person on weeknights, is burdensome on busy residents who
Q. If elected, how would you involve the public in making major decisions?
A. I would actively engage the community through open forums, ensuring residents have a voice in important decisions. Transparency and communication would be at the core of every initiative.
Q. What can the City Council do in the next five years to help the city prosper?
A. The City Council can promote responsible development that balances growth with preserving our small-town character, invest in infrastructure to support community needs, and foster partnerships with local businesses to encourage economic vitality.
I also believe that while the city does an admirable job in communicating through their website and the water/sewer bills, there is always room for improvement. I would look for more opportunities to get information out and to afford citizens the opportunity to participate in decisions.
Q. What can the City Council do in the next five years to help the city prosper?
A. The City Council can actively engage with residents to re-envision the downtown master plan and rezone properties accordingly. The council can also actively support business development that meets the needs of its citizens, while prioritizing fiscal responsibility to keep taxes low for Centerville residents.
good platform to meet residents and business owners, to share thoughts, concerns and ideas. I feel this is a good way to involve the public in making major decisions. Building relationships within the community is important.
Q. What can the City Council do in the next five years to help the city prosper?
A. Continue to reduce the tax burden on residential properties. Growing the commercial footprint will spread out the cost of running the city, lessening the burden on induvial homeowners. Fiscal responsibility is important in a smaller city with a tight budget.
Work on finding new avenues of communication with residents and businesses. Keeping people informed and listening to their ideas and concerns is paramount. Social media and continuous enhancement to the city website are great tools. Use the city committees and commissions to continually update the city’s guiding documents and programs. Attracting business and residential developments that enhance and complement Centerville is key to future growth. Change is inevitable, however guided change with purpose is key. Explore using tools such as joint power agreements to share in costs of services with other cities, especially with public safety. As the price of vehicles and equipment increases, JPA’s may be a good option.
have to prioritize family and work obligations over having their voices heard. In this modern age, there must be more we can do to hear the voices of all of our residents as we build for the future of this small town.
Q. What can the city council do in the next five years to help the city prosper?
A. Centerville needs to take a carefully manage our growth as the pressures from the recent expansions in the surrounding area make our undeveloped area targets for future development. The council can review and revise land use laws to ensure that we are building the things a community needs in the places that best suit that use. We can keep the small town feel that brings residents to Centerville and makes it a great place for families while also ensuring our residents benefits from the services and tax base that a thriving commercial sector can provide.
VOTERS’ GUIDE 2024
Gary Grote
Age: 63 City of residence: Lexington
Occupation: Senior principal technician for a medical device company
List 3 most recent civic involvement roles:
• Currently the Mayor of Lexington
• Current member of the Circle-Lex Lions Club
Former member of the Fire Department for 28 plus years, Fire Chief for 12 of those years. Retired 2021
Mike Murphy
Age: 39
City of residence: Lexington
Occupation: Father of two girls, husband and small business owner in the printing, digital and shipping industry.
List 3 most recent civic involvement roles:
City council member (Current)
• Mayor 2019 - 2022
• City council member 2016-2019
Q. What are your top three priorities for the city?
A. Low taxes, fiscal responsibility: I am committed to ensuring that our city thrives economically while alleviating the tax burden on our residents. With the rising cost of everyday living, it’s more important than ever to prioritize fiscal responsibility. City infrastructure: The Blaine v. Lexington water lawsuit is a pivotal issue for our city. As the former mayor, I have years of in-depth knowledge of our water system and numerous closed-session meetings with our city council & staff. I am fully
Barbara J Mahr
Age: 55+ City of residence: Lexington
Occupation: I am a successful financial advisor and enjoy helping my clients increase their confidence by making informed life decisions whether they are retired or working toward their future financial success. Awarded the Five Star Wealth Manager Award 2017-2023. List 3 most recent civic involvement roles: Previously a city of Lexington council member from 1995-1999 and 2007-2010. I also served on the Planning and Zoning Commission in the past.
Brandon Winge
Age: 44 City of residence: Lexington
Occupation: Job supervisor List 3 most recent civic involvement roles: Lexington City Council. Duties on the City Council: Cable Commission representative, Planning and Zoning representative, Police Board representative
Q. What are your top three priorities for the city?
A. My top priority for the city is ending our perpetual water issue with the city of Blaine. The water issue with Blaine has been ongoing for decades, a finding the best possible
Jill Hunt
Age: 60+
City of Residence: Lexington
Occupation: I was a small business owner for 25 years, now retired.
List 3 most recent civic involvement
roles:
• Member of Hope for Women - Dress
A Girl program
Our Savior’s Quilting GroupSupporting Alexandra House and Community Members
• Quilting for Interim Hospice
LEXINGTON MAYOR: ELECT 1
Q. What are your top three priorities for the city?
A. With the additional high-density growth in the city, I would look at ways to improve fiscal management.
Identify additional funding for projects in our city, including aesthetics of Lake Drive and additional improvements at Lexington Memorial Park
Keeping public services fully funded and controlling cost at the same time.
Q. If elected, how would you involve the public in making major decisions?
A. Engaging the public can be an evolving process. It is possible to start at one level of engagement and then move to another as you learn from the input gathered.
committed to protecting Lexington’s water rights and ensuring our residents receive high-quality water services.
Supporting our first responders: My top priority is keeping Lexington a safe place to live. Our police officers and firefighters are the backbone of our community, and I am fully committed to ensuring they have everything they need to do their jobs well.
Please visit MurphyForLexington.com to read more about my priorities.
Q. If elected, how would you involve the public in making major decisions?
A. If elected, I’ll make it a priority to actively involve the public in major decisions through open communication and collaboration. I’ll hold regular town hall meetings on important issues where residents can share their concerns and ideas directly with me and other city leaders. I will also use online platforms, surveys, and social media to gather feedback from those unable to attend in person. I’m committed to providing clear updates on the city’s website and through newsletters, so everyone stays informed on key issues. Most importantly, I’ll always be available to listen—whether by phone, email, or
LEXINGTON CITY COUNCIL: ELECT 2
• Member of Power of 100 Twin Cities Women Who Care Volunteer-Centennial Lakes Little League Past board member - Renovation Church
Q. What are your top three priorities for the city?
A. Explore ways to control increases of city property taxes. Being a small city surrounded by larger suburbs, it’s a difficult task to provide all the necessary services to our citizens with the funds provided by the city’s share of property taxes. We need to explore funding and resources for smaller cities that would be available to help with our expenses.
We are currently in a difficult situation with our water resources. We need to explore every avenue to improve our water quality and accessibility for the future.
Lexington is a prime route for commuters in large residential areas and we need to help businesses promote their products
outcome for our city is what I intend to do. I have been part of mediations with the city of Blaine, but their unwillingness to compromise in any sort of way has led to a problem that will now only be settled with the help of a judge. I have been involved with this problem for over four years now. I believe that this is the number one priority for our city. After the water issue I think continuing to update our roads is the best use of our resources. We don’t have the big budget that cities surrounding us have, so it takes time, but I think we have made strides over the last few years in replacing or resurfacing our roads.
Q. If elected, how would you involve the public in making major decisions?
A. If elected I encourage any resident to reach out directly via my city email that is listed on the city website or come to any
Q. What are your top three priorities for the city?
A. 1. Find ways to control increases of city property taxes.
2. Improve water quality.
3. Develop a diversified friendly community.
Q. If elected, how would you involve the public in making major decisions?
A. I encourage citizens to come to the council meetings. Encourage more participation of neighborhoods for events like National Night Out.
Q. What can the City Council do in the next five years to help the city prosper?
A. Connect with Lexington businesses to promote their services and products.
1.Informing the public, include information in the utility bills, or have meetings defined as informational.
2.Consult with the public, give the public a chance to comment. Surveys, emails, website and have public meetings that aim for dialogue and not a debate.
3.Collaborate with the Public, awareness toward public diversity, getting more of the community involved.
Q. What can the City Council do in the next five years to help the city prosper?
A. I would look to foster a unified city and assist in providing needed infrastructure. My focus is the citizens of Lexington and not to further my political career!
in person. I want every resident to feel heard and valued, with your input reflected in the decisions we make. My door will always be open to discuss any ideas or concerns you may have.
Q. What can the City Council do in the next five years to help the city prosper?
A. To help Lexington thrive over the next five years, the City Council should focus on three key priorities: smart growth, fiscal responsibility, and community involvement. First, we can attract businesses that fit our community while preserving the small-town feel we all love. Moving forward, we must be cautious about any future high-density developments. We need to recognize and support the new residents who now call Lexington home—residents who actively contribute to our local restaurants, schools, and businesses. Second, we must be smart with our budget, ensuring that every tax dollar is spent efficiently on critical services like roads, parks and public safety. Finally, we need to keep an open line of communication with residents, so decisions are shaped by the needs and priorities of our community. Please join us at the City Council meetings on the first and third Thursday of each month at 7 p.m.
and services to all those commuters.
Q. If elected, how would you involve the public in making major decisions?
A. Our community is growing. I encourage members of the Community to get engaged by attending council meetings. We need to explore ways to survey citizens regarding major decisions that meets regulations.
Q. What can the City Council do in the next five years to help the city prosper?
A. Engage the Anoka County services to maximize visibility and promotion of local businesses. Explore access to connect fiber optics for the citizens.
of the city council meetings. We have a citizens’ forum that any resident can speak during. We generally have a very low attendance at our meetings and would welcome any input from the residents.
Q. What can the City Council do in the next five years to help the city prosper?
A. I think in the next five years the City Council should continue focusing on updating our infrastructure and finding a solution to our water problem. Our city has very little room to grow. The few apartments we have added over the past five years have solidified a healthy taxable based that will help the city fund the updates needed in our infrastructure while keeping the taxes as low as possible for the residents.
VOTERS’ GUIDE 2024
Sue
Linser
Age: 51 City of Residence: Lino Lakes
Occupation: North America Sales Operations Analyst, AVIRE
List 3 most recent civic involvement
roles:
2021-present - School Board Director, currently serving as Vice Chair
• 2022-present - Centennial Area Education Foundation Board Member
• 2014-2018 - Centennial Girls Hockey
Blue Line Club Treasurer
Q. What are your top three priorities for the school district?
A. Quality education: Committing to education for everyone, fostering a positive environment, and persistently working to improve achievement among all students and continue to work on bridging the achievement gap.
Support and safety: Ensuring that students, teachers, and staff receive the support they need, feel secure, and maintain
Craig Johnson
Age: 61 years
City of residence: Lino Lakes
Occupation: Independent personal insurance agent
List 3 most recent civic involvement
roles: I have filled various roles in leadership for organizations including the following: Current Centennial School Board Clerk.
• Donating my time to an educational nonprofit, Best Prep, for the past eight years.
• Volunteered with the Lino Lakes Beyond the Yellow Ribbon and was a past president.
Heidi Hansen
Age: 53
City of residence: Blaine
Occupation: Preschool teacher
List 3 most recent civic involvement roles:
• Volunteer teacher at St. Joseph of the Lakes Catholic Church for the past 15 years
Served nine years on the Centennial Lakes Little League Board of Directors and four years as a league representative Youth Softball Coach
Laura Gannon
Age: 44 City of residence: Circle Pines
Occupation: Principal Software Systems
Engineer
List 3 most recent civic involvement roles:
• Girl Scout Troop Cookie Manager (2023 - present)
• Centennial Theatre Boosters Volunteer (2023 - present)
• Minnesota State Science and Engineering Fair Middle School Judge (2022)
Q. What are your top three priorities for the school district?
A. A safe environment is paramount to improving the quality of our children’s education. When children speak of having adequate cover while using the restroom during class time in the event of an active shooter event, we as a society could be doing better. Our students should have an equitable education, where kids with special needs get the support needed to have a successful education and career path as well as challenging
CENTENNIAL SCHOOL BOARD: ELECT 3
their mental and physical health.
Funding: Securing sufficient funding to sustain high-quality education for all students and provide essential resources and support for teachers and staff.
Q. What do you see as the major issue(s) facing your school district?
A. Funding is a major issue that our district has faced for several decades. Working with our legislators to prioritize increasing the state funding formula, making levy funding equal for all, and supporting unfunded mandates is vital to maintaining exceptional education for our students and offering the necessary resources and support for our teachers and staff. This includes funds to lower class sizes and broaden educational opportunities and experiences for all students.
Several key themes emerged from our Centennial Schools Annual Survey, but one that particularly resonated with me was the need to support our students and staff emotionally and socially. This area of growth was highlighted by parents, students, and staff alike, and it is clear that it is an issue within our district and society as a whole. Addressing these emotional and social needs is crucial for fostering a supportive and
Q. What are your top three priorities for the school district?
A. Student Achievement. COVID was definitely a distraction. We must reconnect students with success, by focusing on the basics of education, without the distractions. Continue to spend our district funds wisely. Provide the best education programs, regardless of the limits to our district funding. Work to improve our state legislative funding with our local and state representatives. School safety. Be prepared. Be diligent. Incidents can happen anywhere and at anytime.
Q. What do you see as the major issue(s) facing your school district?
A. Providing more educational opportunities for students that could include options for post-secondary, direct-to-workforce, manufacturing, medical services and/or technology. Addressing achievement gaps. Where are they at? Why do they exist? How do we improve? How committed are we to make the improvements? Mental health is a significant issue that must be addressed, inside and outside the classroom. This is for
Q. What are your top three priorities for the school district?
A. Students wish to be seen, heard and valued. As a school board member, I will advocate for ALL students. It is my goal to help prepare students for their future by improving literacy, math and science skills. Additionally, it’s important to me to strengthen mental health supports for all students.
And, as safety is a high priority, I fully support school resource officers in our schools.
Q. What do you see as the major issue(s) facing your school district?
A. Nationwide, the marked decline of math and reading scores continues to be the result of the pandemic. Here in the Centennial district, our students’ scores have
students who need a more rigorous curriculum to remain engaged in learning. Maintaining the College Prep Pathway and the Manufacturing Pathway is essential to giving our children choices for their futures. We need to give our kids the tools to succeed when they move on from K-12, which requires evidence-based teaching methods, evidence-based science, history that is accurate and honest, as well as the nuts and bolts of civics.
Q. What do you see as the major issue(s) facing your school district?
A. Bullying and physical violence is a major issue in the Centennial School District. Our children have had an unprecedented life experience that has affected their mental health and development in so many ways as well as lead to a dearth of empathy and acceptance for one another. There would be less bullying if our children felt more secure to be themselves and had more empathy and acceptance for others. We need to look at providing more services and programs to guide and help our children grow past the disadvantages they have had so they can be capable, kind, empathetic, and productive citizens. I want
nurturing environment for the Centennial community.
Q. What are your thoughts on the current and the proposed budget for your school district?
A. School funding is complex, and our Executive Director of Business Services plays a key role in guiding the board through the intricacies of finances and budgeting. This process begins in September and concludes with final approval in May/June, providing ample time to ask questions, review data, and make informed decisions. Our current budget will guide us as we start planning for the 2025-26 school year.
As an incumbent, I’m proud of our board’s commitment to directing resources into classrooms and supporting students and staff. We effectively managed COVID relief funds by using them strategically, avoiding significant cuts by limiting their use to one-time needs and continuing the funds allocation for balancing elementary classroom sizes through general funds.
We recognize that, like all school districts, we will continue to face financial and budgetary challenges. However, I am confident that we will continue to be prudent and effective stewards of our funds.
both staff and students! Culture among educators, parents and students. Build respect and togetherness.
Q. What are your thoughts on the current and proposed budget for your school district?
A. With our legislative funding inequities and our significant reliance on homeowners for taxes, given a limited commercial tax base, we have had to find the most sound and economic ways to address how we fund increasing needs from within our general fund. We have to be focused on spending in our classrooms (educators and students), while also being mindful of the maintenance of our buildings and infrastructure. Moving forward, we should be focused on a situation where Centennial Schools is able to address a reduction in classroom sizes, proactively maintaining school safety and continuing to support efforts to monitor our student’s mental health.
rebounded well, however there is still work to be done to get back up to pre-pandemic scoring percentages. This requires our primary focus to be on academics, not activism. Let’s keep politics out of the classroom and prioritize learning.
Q. What are your thoughts on the current and the proposed budget for your school district?
A. Due to funding inequities, Centennial Schools receive less state funding than other districts of similar size, forcing the district to meet growing needs with less money. This requires sound fiscal management and a need to prioritize spending. I support the district’s efforts to right size operations, reduce class sizes where limits are being reached, as well as prioritizing student mental health resources.
our kids to not just survive the pandemic, but to thrive despite the collective time of discord we all experienced.
Q. What are your thoughts on the current and the proposed budget for your school district?
A. Looking at the current budget for Centennial School District could give one some pause that the deficit created was about thirty percent of the total budget expenditures for this coming school year, however, the rationale for this deficit (which was long-term facilities maintenance projects, the voter-approved operating referendum plan, food service capital projects, debt service advanced refinancing, trust fund retirement payments, and internal service fund inflation adjustment) was reasonable. This school year’s deficit was ten times the previous year’s deficit and reflects how inflation has affected our district over the past year. The proposed budget for next year will not start to be discussed until December, however, I would like to see more granularity in the budget, so that we can better see where our spending is going and determine what adjustments are needed.
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5 BLK 1 ROBIN ACRES
EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY, all real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Ho using Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preferen ce limitation or discriminat ion based on race co lo r, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or nationa l origin, or an intention, to make any such preferen ce, limitation or discriminat ion.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 livin g with parents or legal cu stod ians; pregnant women and peop le securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not kn owingly accept any ad vertising for real esta te which is in violation of the law. Our readers ar e hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newsp ap er are available on an equal oppor tunity basis To complain of discrimination call HUD toll free: 1-800-669-9 777. The toll-free number for hearing impaired is 1-800-927-92
OPPORTUNITY all real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Ho using Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preferen ce, limitation or discriminat ion based on race co lo r, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or nationa l origin, or an intention, to make any such preferen ce limitation or discriminat ion.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 livin g with parents or legal cu stod ians; pregnant women and peop le securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not kn owingly accept any ad vertising for real esta te which is in violation of the law. Our readers ar e hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newsp ap er are available on an equal oppor tunity basis To complain of discrimination call HUD toll free: 1-800-669-9 777. The toll-free number for hearing impaired is 1-800-927-92
PUBLIC NOTICES
4th
for expenses incurred by the City to abate weed and grass nuisances found on the property. The total amount proposed to be assessed is $615.00. Adoption by the Council of the proposed assessment may occur at the hearing. Such assessment is proposed to be payable in a single installment to be payable on or before the first Monday in January 2025 and will bear interest at the rate of 5 percent per annum from the date of the adoption of the assessment resolution. To the first installment shall be added interest on the entire assessment from the date of the assessment resolution until December 31, 2025. The property owner may at any time prior to certification of the assessment to the county auditor, pay the entire assessment on such property, with interest accrued to the date of payment, to the City. No interest shall be charged if the entire assessment is paid within 30 days from the adoption of this assessment. The property owner may at any time thereafter, pay to the City the entire amount of the assessment remaining unpaid, with interest accrued to December 31 of the year in which such payment is made. Such payment must be made before November 15 or interest will be charged through December 31 of the succeeding year. If the property owner decides not to prepay the assessment before the date given above the rate of interest that will apply is 5 percent per year. The proposed assessment roll is on file for public inspection at the City Clerk’s office. Written or oral objections will be considered at the meeting. No appeal to district court may be taken as to the amount of an assessment unless a written objection signed by the affected property owner is filed with the municipal clerk prior to the assessment hearing or presented to the presiding officer at the hearing. The Council may upon such notice consider any objection to the amount of a proposed individual assessment at an adjourned meeting upon such further notice to the affected property owners as it deems advisable. Under Minn. Stat. §§ 435.193 to 435.195 and City Code Section 303.10, the Council may, in its discretion, defer the payment of this
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HUGO — A woman is dead, and her son is in custody following an assault at a residence in Washington County Monday, Sept. 16. At approximately 5:55 p.m., the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and emergency medical personnel were dispatched to a home on the 15900 block of Ingersoll Ave. N. after receiving an openline 911 call. Telecommunicators could hear a woman moaning and a male voice shouting in the background.
Upon arrival, deputies heard a struggle inside and entered the home, where they found 45-yearold Trevor Joseph Wunderlich leaning over his mother, 68-year-old Charlene Wunderlich. Charlene Wunderlich was observed to be badly bruised and groaning in pain. Deputies attempted to subdue the suspect with a taser, but he broke free and fled from the residence.
Despite lifesaving efforts, Charlene was pronounced dead at the hospital.
Law enforcement agencies from across the metro area assisted in the manhunt, which continued overnight and into Tuesday, Sept. 17. Just before 11 a.m., a citizen in the 9800 block of 152nd St. N. noticed a person matching the description of the suspect in their yard and called 911. Deputies immediately responded and arrested Trevor Wunderlich without incident.
Court documents that were filed on Thursday, Sept. 19 stated that Wunderlich has been charged with a second-degree murder charge in the death of Charlene.
The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension is assisting with the investigation.
Dahl returns from Paris with silver medal
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
Skylar Dahl had a pleasant trip to Paris recently. The 21-year-old Centennial graduate sampled some Escargots, shopped with her parents, saw the Eiffel Tower — and brought home a silver medal from the 2024 Paralympic Games.
“We had a really good time,” said Dahl, a member of Team USA’s PR3 mixed four with coxswain team that finished a close behind Great Britain on Sept. 1 at the Vaires-sur-Marne Nautical Stadium.
“Of course, we were going for the gold,” said Dahl, contacted at the University of Virginia. “But winning silver was good. It’s a really cool feeling to have a medal ourselves and know that we did something very special this summer. Especially when we came closer to Great Britain than anyone has.”
The finale was close until the last 500 meters. “They pulled away in the last quarter of the race,” said Dahl. Her squad was 3.29 seconds behind the Brits, who are unbeaten in international meets since 2010 and lowered their world
record two days earlier. France edged Germany for the bronze.
Dahl manned the bow position in a crew with Gemma Wollenschlager of Florida, Alex Flynn of Massachusetts, Ben Washburne of Connecticut, and the coxswain, Emelie Eldracher of Massachusetts. Their average age is 21.
This was her second international experience. The same team placed second behind in the 2023 world Paralympics meet, also in Paris. “It went pretty much the same,” she said.
Born with bilateral club feet, Dahl had to give up soccer and basketball as she grew up, but found her niche in rowing. She joined a club team in Eden Prairie and earned a scholarship to the University of Virginia.
At Virginia, she’s part of a perennial power. In the 2024 season, her second varsity eight boat won the ACC championship. She has one season left with the Cavaliers.
Photos of the 5-foot-10 Dahl rowing show a strong upper body. “That’s definitely from rowing,” she said. “I started lifting when I was maybe 12 or 13, but it’s
Cougars clip Knights 24-9 at Homecoming
The Centennial Cougars won their homecoming game over St. Michael-Albertville (STMA) 24-9 last Friday evening.
Caleb Melser scored twice for the Cougars (2-2) on runs of 10 yards and one yard, while carrying 28 times for 114 yards. Isaac Belinske-Strauss, quarterback, gained 69 yards in 12 keepers, while throwing just four passes, completing two to Kellen Binder for 17 yards.
Evan Just picked up a fumble and dashed 12 yards for a touchdown. Justin Driver booted a 28-yard field goal and three extra points.
The Cougars limited the Knights to 114 yards rushing and 58 passing. The STMA touchdown was an eight-yard pass from Kaden Sebold to Ty Haring. Marshawn Carlvin stopped STMA’s first drive with an interception. Ben Clauson made 11 tackles, Caden Coppersmith 10, Tyler Book seven,
SPORTS BRIEFS
Cougar girls place 2nd, boys 12th in Griak gala
The Centennial cross country teams participated in the state’s largest meet Friday with the girls placing second of 35 teams in the middle of three divisions and the boys placing 12th.
The Roy Griak Invitational, hosted by the University of Minnesota at their golf course in Falcon Heights, draws over 100 teams from many states, competing in Championship, Gold, and Maroon divisions.
The Cougars ran in the Gold race. The Griak also has college races.
The top five teams in the girls race were Woodbury with 156, Centennial 171, Eau Claire Memorial
Strand JON NAMYST | CONTRIBUTED Caleb Melser lunged over the goal line to complete a 10-yard touchdown run.
186, Chaska 195 and Rogers 199. Individual winner was Monticello’s Isabel Mahoney in 18:56.
Leading Centennial was senior Kylie Nelson, placing seventh in 20:18, followed by Miranda Sawvel in 21st (21:09), Emma Delf 36th (21:56), Annelise Offerdahl 49th (22:13), and Anna Swanson 60th (22:36) among 300 runners.
In the boys race, Osseo and Woodburyt finished 1-2, and Andrew Berndt of Sartell was first individual in 17:07.
For the Cougars, Alex Persing was 23rd in 18:03, Liban Ahmed 29th (18:18), Kyler Nelson 45th (18:37), Connor Louks 129th (19:53) and Nathan Paul 162nd (20:25) among 311 runners.
Soccer: Cougar boys nab first 2 wins
Centennial, looking for its first win heading into last week’s action, picked up two of them along with a tie. The Cougars tripped Elk River 4-2 on Tuesday as Minty Shady tallied two goals and Beckett Babiash one, with the Elks giving up an own goal. In the tie with Osseo, Logan Garcia and Mason Willenbring had the goals. Scoring data for the win over Coon Rapids was not available at press time. The Cougars are 2-5-3 overall, 2-5-2 in conference.
Bruce Strand
Note: See presspubs.com for this week’s scoreboard.
mainly from rowing and our training. I was actually a scrawny kid.”
Dahl’s team spent two weeks in Paris, arriving a week early. Rowing took place in the first week, so they had several days to be tourists. Her parents, Andy and Kari, were there, along with some close friends from home.
“We went to a few cafes and tried new foods. Paris is famous for Escargots. I wasn’t sure about eating snails, but they were pretty good.”
In the shops, she bought some clothes
“but nothing too glamorous,” Dahl said. “We did enjoy browsing all the luxury and designer purses and jewelry, though.” They took a Seine River boat tour through the city to view Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame and other sites.
Majoring in Media Studies and Psychology, Dahl has not pinpointed what occupation to pursue. “Marketing maybe? Sports administration? Something like that.” But one ambition is well set. The 2028 Paralympics will be held in Los Angeles. “I hope to be there,” Dahl said.
Girls soccer: Cougar girls have best week, 2-0-1
The Centennial girls soccer team started the season 1-3 but has bounced back to post four wins and a tie in the last five games.
Last week, Centennial scrapped to a 2-2 tie with Elk River, then clipped Osseo 3-0 and Coon Rapids 5-1. The Cougars are 5-3-1 overall and 5-1-1 in the Northwest Suburban conference.
Two girls led victories with hat tricks. Alexis Larson, junior forward, tallied all three goals against Osseo, with Nora Helvig assisting on two. Mia Jarombek, senior forward, netted three goals against Coon Rapids, with Helvig and Addi Wittenberg notching the other two.
Jarombek and Izzy Sipe had the goals in the tie with the Elks.
Goalie Mia Sutch made five saves while the Elks (4-4-2) got goals from Molly Felgate and Gwen Thomsen. The Cougars permitted just one shot on goal by Osseo and two by Coon Rapids.
In the NWSC race, Maple Grove is 6-0-1, Spring Lake Park 5-0-3, Centennial 5-1-1, and Anoka and Rogers each 4-1-2, for the top five among 12 teams.
Bruce Strand
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Alex Persing
Centennial Cross Country
Alex Persing, Centennial senior, has led the Cougar cross country team for the past two seasons. Persing ran 23rd of 311 runners in the Roy Griak Invitational on Friday in 18:03. He was 15th of 66 runners at Maple Grove (18:26) and 25th of 122 at Anoka (17:35). Persing has made all-conference the past two seasons with 15th and 14th place finishes in the 14-team Northwest Suburban. He placed 14th in the section last year to reach state, where he placed 97th.
Skylar Dahl, far right, posed with her silver-medal-winning rowing team in Paris.
Aiden Evans six, Charlie Augustin six, Calvin Coppersmith five and Alhaji Harris five.
Bruce
BRUCE
Alexis Larson advanced the ball during her three-goal game against Osseo.
