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Watershed district looks to establish new tax district

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

CENTERVILLE — Around the new year, residents/taxpayers who live along Centerville Lake will have the opportunity to weigh in on a proposal to establish a water management district.

Rice Creek Watershed District (RCWD) Lake and Stream Program Manager Matt Kocian explained that the watershed district, along with the Centerville Lake Association (CLA), have been talking about water quality issues on Centerville Lake for the past couple of years, as conditions continue to deteriorate.

“(According to our) water quality monitoring data, things have been getting a bit worse over the past couple of years,” Kocain said. “That’s concerning to us, obviously, it’s concerning to the residents who live on Centerville Lake, the Centerville Lake Association, Anoka County Parks and everybody who uses the Rice Creek Regional Park there.”

The main problem is algae blooms, which are driven by excess nutrients in the water, primarily phosphorus. The beach at the adjacent Rice Creek Chain of Lakes regional park is regularly closed due to health concerns from blue-green algae.

“We want to get an (alum) treatment because it is so bad... It’s not safe for dogs, it’s not safe for kids,” said CLA President Barry Stoffel.

Here comes Homecoming

Kocian said that RCWD has performed several diagnostic studies to try to determine where the excess phosphorus is coming from. “These studies are saying that a good portion of the excess phosphorus is just being recycled inside the lake. So, the sediments or the mud at the bottom of

SEE TAX DISTRICT, PAGE 2

TAX DISTRICT: Could fund alum treatment

knows if it will receive grant dollars, it will better be able to zero in on what the cost would be to individual landowners.

Kocian said it would be similar to the process that the RCWD used for Bald Eagle Lake to fund an alum treatment around 10 years ago.

State agencies team up to offer suicide prevention trainings

bad all summer, they can be quite disruptive to

the lake is releasing phosphorus, and phosphorus is being recycled that way out of the bottom of the lake,” he explained.

A commonly used tool to address frequent algae blooms and excess phosphorus is a chemical called alumni sulfate, also known as alum. An alum treatment on Centerville Lake is estimated to cost between $850,000 and $1.3 million, depending on the selected dosing option. The project would be partially funded by project partners (city of Centerville, Anoka County) and through grant dollars.

In addition, the RCWD and CLA propose the establishment of a water management district.

“A water management district

is like a special tax district that a watershed district could institute and manage for a project like this,” Kocian said. Although the exact details are yet to be determined, Kocian said the district would likely run about 10 years, and people who live on the lake or have deeded access would then have to contribute a yearly amount that could range anywhere from $150 up to $600. Kocian says that likely 75 to 80 landowners would be affected.

“That’s a big range … that’s what we’re waiting on right now, and we’ll have more clarity on that around the new year,” Kocian said. “The big X Factor is whether or not we can get grant dollars for this project.”

The process for establishing a new water management district is a fairly lengthy process and defined by statute (103B.231, subds 7 and 9). It requires an amendment to the water management plan (WMP). After the district receives notice about its Clean Water Fund grant application (January 2024), the RCWD will ask its board to accept new WMP language to proceed with amendment. The amendment will go on the 60day comment period, sent to the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR), the Met Council, and all cities, counties and conservation districts. RCWD will respond in writing to concerns. A public hearing will be held following the 60-day comment period. BWSR has up to 90 days for final review. After all that, RCWD would vote to accept the amendment. That would likely be in August 2024.

The district would start collecting revenue in 2025.

“We want to continue to preserve and clean up the lake and make sure that it is a clean, safe and lake. That’s really our main goal,” Stoffel said.

As students head back to school this fall, there is a new state-level partnership in place to support students’ mental and emotional wellbeing. The partnership, between the Minnesota Department of Health and the Minnesota Department of Education, aims to offer every teacher and school staff member in Minnesota an innovative and effective suicide prevention training.

This joint initiative is one of the efforts being highlighting during Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. The Kognito suicide prevention and mental health trainings for schools are virtual. The sessions walk participants through real-life conversations regarding mental health, giving learners feedback on how they can respond and provide support.

About half of the districts in the state have participated, and about 17,600 educators and school staff completed the trainings. MDH and MDE are collaborating this year to offer trainings focused on suicide prevention, emotional well-being and support, and helping students who have experienced trauma. The trainings will be available to all school staff for free through June 2024 at health.state. mn.us/communities/suicide/communities/ preventsuicidetrainings.html.

Minnesota Department of Health

If you or a loved one are having thoughts of suicide, please connect with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 or use the online chat feature at 988lifeline. org/chat.

Once the watershed district

Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651407-1227 or quadnews@presspubs. com. Join

Lyngblomsten is celebrating the opening of its new senior living campus in Lino Lakes, and we want YOU to join us for our Grand Open House! Savor complimentary chef-prepared appetizers and treats, enjoy family-friendly activities, and take a tour. The campus features independent rental townhomes and apartments, assisted living, memory care, and a variety of amenities.

www.lyngblomsten.org/GrandOpenHouse

Lyngblomsten is a Christian nonprofit that has been serving older adults and their families through healthcare, housing, and community-based services since 1906.

This photo was taken during a particularly bad algae bloom on Centerville Lake. Although the blooms aren’t that

homeowners and recreational users.

CONTRIBUTED

KIDZ N BIZ

When: 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, Sept. 30

Where: Oneka Elementary, 4888

Heritage Pkwy. N., Hugo

Details: Free community event connects local businesses and families and includes carnivallike activities, inflatables, face painting, demonstrations, prizes, food, and vendors.

Contact: mms.hugobusinesses.biz

ONGOING EVENTS

SHOREVIEW INDOOR FARMERS

MARKET

When: 3:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 15

Where: Shoreview Community Center fireside lounge, 4580 Victoria St. N.

Details: More than 30 vendors with produce and food items, artisan crafts, entertainment and activities.

Contact: shoreviewcommunitycenter.com

CIRCLE LEX FARMERS MARKET

When: 3-7 p.m. Wednesdays, June 14-Oct. 4

Where: Back parking lot, Lexington Municipal Liquor Store, 4139 Woodland Rd.

Details: Open air market with local vegetables, crafters, and baked goods. Rain or shine. Contact: 612-272-3386

CURRENT EVENTS

‘THE THREE MUSKETEERS’

When: through Oct. 1

Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave.

Details: Lakeshore Players’ presents the story of adventure, unexpected heroes, and everlasting friendship. Ticket details online.

Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org

LAKESHORE QUILTER’S GUILD

When: 6:30-9 p.m. Tuesday, Sept.

26

Where: Shepherd of the Hills Church, 3920 Victoria St. N., Shoreview

Details: ‘Schoolhouse’ members will share expertise on design boards, wool applique, etc.

Contact: quiltshopcoop.com

SHOREVIEW COMMUNITY FOUNDATION 15TH BIRTHDAY PARTY

When: 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 28

Where: Haffeman Pavilion, Shoreview Commons,

Details: Celebrate the Foundation, which has provided more than 60 grants to community organizations over the past 15 years. Birthday treats and short program. Contact: shoreviewcommunityfoundation. org

FALL FRIDAYS AT THE FILLEBROWN

When: 10 a.m.-noon Friday, Sept. 29

Where: Fillebrown House, 4735 Lake Ave.

Details: Take a self-guided tour of the 1879 lakeside cottage and enjoy refreshments on the porch. Contact: whitebearhistory.org

AUTHOR VISIT

When: 10-11:30 a.m. Friday, Sept. 29

Where: Lake Country Booksellers, 4766 Washington Square, White Bear Lake

Details: M.E. Bakos will sign copies of her home renovator mysteries, including the latest ‘Killer Flip’, and Frank Weber will sign his book ‘The Haunted House of Hillman’. Contact: 651-426-0918

FALL FLEA MARKET

When: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 30

Where: White Bear Area Senior Center, 2484 E. County Road F Details: Over 20+ vendors on the parking lot and more inside. Baked good and food truck. Come as a shopper or register to be a vendor.

Contact: 651-653-3121

ST. PAUL HIKING CLUB

When: 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 1

Where: Wildwood Elementary, 8698 75th St. N., Grant

Details: Hike the horse trail that parallels the Gateway Trail out and back. Treats follow at Wildwood Tavern. Contact: stpaulhike.com

TOTALLY CRIMINAL COCKTAIL HOUR

When: 4:30-5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 4

Where: Stillwater Zephyr Theatre, 601 N. Main St.

Details: Mystery lovers and authors come together for conversation and reading inspiration. Oct. event features author Joshua Moehling. Cash bar. Tickets online. Contact: valleybookseller.com

COMMUNITY BRIEF

Fall grant deadline fast approaching The window to apply for a Power of Centennial grant from the Centennial Area Education Foundation (CAEF) will close Oct. 15. Grants are meant to supplement and enhance the educational experience for students in Centennial Schools. Previously, grants have been awarded for teacher training, supplemental materials, guest speakers and more. For more information on grant guidelines, or to apply, visit caefoundation.org/grants.

Kidz N Biz is scheduled for Sept. 30 in Hugo. See calendar listing for more info.

Fall festivals

Taste of White Bear, St. Jude’s Cornfest, Bear Water Run, Township Day, and Lexington Fall Festival are just a few of the activities that have happened the past couple of weekends. These community events and fundraisers usher in the new season every fall, and I always try to get to as many as I can.

Publisher’s View

Carter Johnson

B eing that our family lived in Osceola, Wisconsin for many years when we ran the Sun newspaper there and the Country Messenger in Scandia, there are a few more community events we have a tradition of attending. I started the day Sept. 9 at Wheels and Wings, a car and airplane show held at the Osceola airport. In my opinion, the cheese curds put out by the Osceola Lions Club were 10 times better than the state fair this year and the tacos were outstanding. I could have stayed all day, but headed back to get to Pine Tree Apple Orchard for the Taste of White Bear. This is a top-notch fundraiser for the White Bear Lake Rotary Club, with local restaurants and liquor retailers providing tasty samples. We ended the day at Cornfest, the annual community event at St. Jude of the Lake church in Mahtomedi. We arrived in time to listen to the live music. A highlight was when Fr. Chad VanHoose took the stage.

M any of these events are entirely volunteer-run and organized to bring our communities together. When you go, you are sure to run into people you know and it’s a good opportunity to catch up with friends and neighbors. If you missed out the last couple of weekends, check out the What’s Happening page of the paper to find out what else is coming up. Let’s finish the season strong in getting out and connecting with others in the community while supporting our local nonprofits and organizations.

Fall hunting

T he duck hunting season started last weekend. When we were newly married and living in our home on a small lake in Cambridge, Minnesota, our alarm clock was the shotgun blast just down the shoreline where duck hunters sat in a temporary blind. For many, the cool fall weather gets them excited for football; for me is the hunting season. Archery deer hunting season is Sept. 16 through Dec. 31; the deer firearms season kicks off Nov. 4 across the state. Be sure to wear blaze orange - on yourself and your pets - if you’re walking in the woods or near a hunting zone. It’s great to be living in state that offers such a diverse list of outdoor activities.

No parking zone

Recently the city of White Bear Lake has posted no parking signs on the city-owned docks designed to be public parking for boaters on the lake. Over the last few years availability of public docking decreased by about a third with the removal of dock cleats so boaters could not tie up. The rationale is that public boat parking is hindering the businesses providing boat slip rentals.

T his season all of the cleats on public docks were removed, eliminating all of the public docking spaces for not only pontoons and powerboats, but also kayaks, PWC’s, row boats and paddle boards. Essentially has this turned the taxpayer-funded public dock into a private one.

Our regular readers know I love boating and being on the water. I enjoy taking the pontoon to dinner or paddle boarding over for coffee on the weekends. I supported the redevelopment of the business district, and we want to see the area and the businesses there thrive. Let’s encourage our city and neighboring business to keep the public docks open.

Cornerstone of our democracy

Free and fair elections in the United States are at the cornerstone of keeping us as a truly free people in our representative republic. Free and fair elections also allow for the peaceful transfer of power. Through most of human history, this was not the case. Power was taken and usually not without violence.

Movers & Shakers

Jeff Reinert

O ver the last 20 plus years, elections have been contested more often in our country, and usually at the Presidential level. Those old enough I’m sure remember Bush v. Gore and the hanging chads in Florida. As free citizens we should be able to question our election process, but in the end, we need to have the utmost level of integrity for our elections to keep them free and fair. Since the county government oversees elections, I have been asked a lot about how secure our elections are in Anoka County, and I can say I am very impressed with how Anoka County handles its elections. There can always be room for improvement, which is why I pushed for expanding our post-election audits.

Election judge data: Modus (the county’s vendor) has been in use since 2011 and has become

• Election season is considered to be when filing first begins until the day of the election.

Limited to 350 words. Paid letters running longer will be charged $10 per 30 words after that.

Letters are free unless endorsing a candidate, party or question on the ballot. Endorsement letters will have a $45 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 letters are labeled, “paid letter.”

an integral part of our election administration. Modus meets the IT Department’s stringent standards for vendors accessing Anoka County’s technology systems and uses technologies such as encryption, password protection and firewall protection, to ensure data security. No Minnesota county (including Anoka) has ever experienced a problem with Modus.

Verified registered voters: Anoka County performs updates daily as new information is received. Registrations and registration updates come in from a variety of sources, including; From the voter via paper application and online registration, Driver and Vehicle Services, Dept of Health, US Postal Service and Dept of Corrections. The identity of all registrants is verified by either sending the registrant’s driver’s license number to DVS or sending the last four digits of the registrant’s social security number to the Social Security Administration (MN Statute 201.1615).

Validated paper ballots: Anoka County currently uses paper ballots as required by MN statute 204B.36. While Anoka County uses machines to count those paper ballots, it is important to remember that the county already maintains a “fully trackable chain of custody directly to each precinct.” Paper poll books: At the time it switched from paper poll books to electronic poll pads, Anoka County

LETTER GUIDELINES

carefully studied that issue and concluded that the poll pads provide greater election security and transparency than the paper poll books did. Going back to paper poll books would make Anoka County’s elections less secure and efficient. Anoka County has never had any issues with the integrity of the poll pad data being compromised in any way.

I n the United States, we are free citizens of this country unlike other countries where people are a subject, or a national. The difference between these terms is immense. “Citizen” is one of many free people, who collectively possess sovereignty and are equal with no rights superior to another.

“Subject” is derived from the Latin words, sub and jacio, and means, one who is under the power of another, property of another person or look up to a master.

“National” means a person owing permanent allegiance to a State and is considered property of the State.

Once our rights to select our leaders as citizens are lost, we all become a subject or a national. We need to protect our freedom through free and fair elections. As your Anoka County representative, I will do what I can to ensure election integrity is upheld in Anoka County.

Jeff Reinert

Anoka County Commissioner Jeff.Reinert@co.Anoka.mn.gov www.JeffReinert.com

FOR ELECTION SEASON 2023

Letters for or against a candidate will qualify as paid letters.

Submissions must include a full name, address and phone number for verification.

Letter-writers must live, work or have another connection to Press Publications coverage area.

• 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.

Letters reprinted as part of letterwriting campaigns are paid letters.

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. 7 election will be printed in the Oct. 24 issue and must be received by 5 p.m. Wednesday, Oct.18.

To submit a letter, email news@ presspubs.com, fax it to 651-4291242 or mail/deliver it to Press Publications.

Lexington talks street project assessments

BY BROOKE WOHLRABE CONTRIBUTING WRITER

LEXINGTON— Residents who live on Dunlap Avenue between Restwood Road and Flowerfield Road should expect a bill of $1,200 to $1,700.

City Engineer Steve Winter recently presented to the City Council on the topic. Winter said the process was started back in December 2022 when the council approved a feasibility study. A public hearing was also held in the spring and then the project was bid out and while it started slightly later than planned, Winter said a portion was

BUSINESS BRIEF

completed in June.

“Tonight, we’re talking about how to pay for the rest of the project and move forward,” Winter said.

The total project cost is $104,000.

“This is the same number that was in the feasibility study but that should come down some,” Winter explained.

Thirty percent of the cost, or $34,730, will be assessed to the residents with the city covering the rest. Depending on each resident’s property, the cost will range from $1,200 to $1,700 and can be pre-paid or assessed to the county and paid out over 10 years.

LEXINGTON CITY COUNCIL SNIPPETS

• The City Council will likely see a business license application in the near future for a Mexican restaurant moving into the former Bistro La Roux space. The restaurant is expected to only use half of the space, so another business could also move in eventually.

• The municipal liquor store manager Jack Borgen plans to retire in January.

• The city continues to discuss the Centennial Lakes Police Department 2023 budget.

New Mexican restaurant coming to Lexington?

A new Mexican restaurant called Britos Burritos may be coming to Lexington in the former Bistro La Roux space, located at 9372 Lexington Ave. The business is currently remodeling the space, but City Administrator Bill Petracek said the business has not applied for its business license just yet.

Britos Burriots currently has three locations — Hopkins/Minnetoka, Saint Louis Park and Monticello. The menu features a variety of items including burritos, salads, tacos, quesadillas, salsas and more. For more information about the business, visit britosburrito.com.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Tart Lake Road

First of all, thank you for the great work you and your team do to cover local council and school board meetings. This is a vital public service and why I’m proud to be a paying subscriber of your newspaper.

I’m writing in response to the recent article stemming from the City Council discussion regarding traffic safety along Tart Lake Road. I live on Stella Lane just south of Tart Lake Road. My family (four kids, two dogs) and I travel along Tart Lake Road daily, and I often encounter drivers speeding through our neighborhood, generally from the east. I have been tailgated, honked at, and passed along this residential street with no centerline and no sidewalks.

While I understand that the article was focused on the discussion at the City Council meeting, I’m disappointed that the paper didn’t take the opportunity to visit Tart Lake Road, talk to residents, or challenge the premise of some of the city leaders’ comments.

While the city is spending more time and money analyzing and assessing expensive options, the entire premise of the problem wasn’t even considered. Traffic needs to be slower and safer. A 30-mph speed limit is too high. A few new street signs with 20 mph speed limit and enforcement would do the trick without much expense to taxpayers.

Jason Feipel Lino Lakes

WEEKLY WAG

CONTRIBUTED

CENTENNIAL SCHOOL BOARD SNIPPETS

• The school board has set the proposed 2023 payable 2024 property tax levy as maximum. Each year, school boards are required to certify the proposed tax levy by Sept. 30. Proposed levies for school districts carry the option of levying the maximum versus a specific amount due to continuing updates by the Minnesota Department of Education.

Executive Director of Business Services Patrick Chaffey explained that the maximum option protects school districts whose levies may need adjustments. By certifying the maximum, the levy can decrease, but it cannot increase.

The school board will host a truth in taxation hearing for 6:30 p.m. Dec. 4, where the public can comment on the proposed budget and levy. The school board has adopted two new plans. First is a board governance plan, which details school district governance and policy, operational oversight, board governance policy, superintendent relations and public engagement.

Superintendent Jeff Holmberg explained that the three-year plan came out of the board’s staff retreat that was held in August. “This shapes our work for work sessions and board meetings,” Holmberg said. “It works in tandem with our operations plan.”

The second plan is the operational plan. The purpose of the plan is to create a multiyear plan for administrators that identifies district initiatives for research and development, implementation planning and continuous improvements aligned to the district’s strategic directions.

• The district has created a LongRange Planning Committee

(LPRC) to create a 10-year facilities and enrollment plan to:

SEE MORE BUSINESS BRIEFS, PAGE 7

• Review student enrollment trends and formalize student enrollment projections

• Examine current district educational capacity for current and future programming

• Examine facility deferred maintenance needs Examine facilities space and provide comprehensive cocurricular opportunities

The plan will likely come back to the school board in March or April, Holmberg said. The board continues to review revisions to policies needed due to legislative changes. Most recently, the board reviewed policy 613, dealing with graduation requirements; policy 616, which speaks to school district systems accountability; policy 620, which addresses credit for learning; and policy 624, dealing with online instruction.

• The Association of Metropolitan School Districts (ASMD) continues to try to figure out how to interpret legislation that was passed by the state this past legislative session.

Holmberg explained that the topic of school resource officers (SROs) continues to come up.

“We are still looking for that solution so that we can reestablish that relationship that we have with our SROs,” he said.

Even though an SRO is no longer stationed at the middle school or high school, Holmberg said the district continues to have a positive relationship with the Lino Lakes and Blaine police departments. “They continue to support us on calls and have been extremely responsive,” Holmberg said.

• Now that the Centennial Area Education Foundation (CAEF) golf tournament is in the books, focus will turn to the foundation’s annual gala, which will likely happen April 13. The fall grant deadline is fast approaching as well — Oct. 15. For more information, visit www. caefoundation.org.

• Student enrollment for Northeast Metro 916 Intermediate School District continues to rise. School Board Member Tom Knisely said 1,967 students are enrolled this year compared to 1,520 last year.

• Homecoming is scheduled for Sept. 25 through Sept. 29.

• A live-burn training planned for area fire departments on school district property on 103rd Lane in Blaine will likely take place sometime in October. Holmberg said the district has been working with the Spring Lake Park Blaine Mounds View Fire Department to organize the training opportunity offered by a home that needs to be demolished.

• Save the date. The school board’s next listening session is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 16, right before the board’s regular meeting. The listening session will provide an opportunity for community members, staff, parents and students to informally meet with some of the board members and the superintendent to discuss topics in the schools.

The Centennial School Board will have its next work session at 5:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 2. The next regular meeting will be at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 16.

Shannon Granholm

CONTRIBUTED

Coyotita

Coyotita spent much of the first year of her life living outside with other dogs, but she has adapted very well to the “inside” life where she can be pampered, where she can snuggle with her people, and where she has a nice soft bed to lay on. Coyotita is a Carolina dog/Australian kelpie mix. She weighs about 40 pounds and is approximately 2 years old.

She arrived at Ruff Start Rescue from Texas. She is social and good with other dogs and cats she meets, and she loves all the people she has met. Coyotita is house-trained, affectionate, eager to please, gentle and enjoys going on car rides. She also likes going for walks.

Coyotita is a gorgeous young girl who is waiting for her forever home and family, who will love her and continue to work with her to be her best as an adopted family member. If you are interested in learning more about Coyotita or adopting her, please fill out an application at www. ruffstartrescue.org. Once your application is received, Ruff Start Rescue will contact you as soon as possible.

A new restaurant may be coming to Lexington.

The Lino Lakes Police Department reports the following incidents:

• An officer assisted a neighboring agency on a traffic stop in the 1900 block Main Street Sept. 12. The driver was ultimately arrested. The investigation was handled by the neighboring agency.

• An officer stopped a vehicle for speeding in the 7900 block of I-35E Sept. 12. The adult male driver was later cited for driving without a license and speeding. The vehicle was towed. An officer received a school bus stop arm violation report from the 6400 block of Hodgson Road Sept. 12. The officer investigated and sent the report to city attorney’s office for possible charges.

• An officer responded to a report of disorderly conduct and trespassing in the 6800 block of Otter Lake Road Sept. 12. A male was trespassed from a property, and the investigation is ongoing.

• An officer received a school bus stop arm violation report from the 100 block of Ash Street Sept. 12. The officer sent the case to the prosecutor for possible charges.

• An officer received information of a traffic violation in the 600 block of Town Center Parkway Sept. 13. The owner of the involved vehicle was contacted and advised of the complaint.

• An officer was conducting a walkthrough of a school in the 7500 block of Fourth Street Sept. 13 when they were made aware of a juvenile who was believed to be under the influence. The juvenile was brought home by the officer and turned over to a parent.

• Officers responded to a business in the 6700 block of Lake Drive Sept. 13 to complete a welfare check of a child that was observed being disciplined by a parent. The child was found to be uninjured, and the police report was forwarded to child protection for further assessment.

• An officer responded to a complaint involving a video recording device in the 700 block of Town Center Parkway Sept. 14. This matter is under further investigation.

• An officer responded to an attempted transaction card fraud in the 7900 block of Lake Drive Sept. 14. The caller had not lost any money and the officer documented the incident. The investigation is ongoing.

• An officer witnessed an individual without a driver’s license operating a vehicle in the 100 block of Shetland Lane Sept. 14. The officer verified the driver did not have a valid license and mailed a citation.

• An officer took a report of suspicious activity in the 7400 block of Village Drive Sept. 15. The

MDAN ads to run ONE TIME, the week beginning 9/24/2023 Metro

incident is under investigation.

A community service officer received a complaint of a semi-truck parked in a no parking zone and cars running red lights near the 8000 block of Lake Drive Sept. 15. The caller requested that the driver receive a citation. The semi was gone on arrival. Extra patrol was requested.

An officer took a report of a sign blocking the view of traffic near Lake Drive and 79th Street Sept. 15.

The Centennial Lakes Police Department reports the following incidents:

• Officers received a traffic complaint in the 400 block of Keith Road in Circle Pines Sept. 13.

• Police received a phone call report of criminal sexual conduct in Centerville Sept. 13. Officers responded to a delayed report of a property damage accident in the 7000 block of Eagle Trail in Centerville Sept. 13. The caller advised he went off the roadway and struck a mailbox cluster. He advised that he would contact the owners and replace the mailboxes.

• Police responded to a theft report in the 9000 block of Griggs Avenue in Lexington Sept. 14.

• Officers responded to an attempted theft of a bicycle in the 9200 block of Lexington Avenue NE in Circle Pines Sept. 15.

An officer stopped a vehicle for illegal window tint container of marijuana.

• Officers responded to a call of burglary of an unoccupied home in the 6200 block of Hodgson Road Sept. 17. The incident is under investigation.

• An officer stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation in the 8100 block of Haywood Drive Sept. 18 and learned the male in the vehicle had been trespassing at a construction site. The male was issued a citation for trespassing.

An officer stopped a vehicle which was unable to maintain its lane of travel in the 300 block of Ash Street Sept. 18. The driver showed signs of impairment, was arrested and processed for DWI, then booked into jail for second-degree DWI. An officer responded to a disorderly conduct report at a school in the 7500 block of Fourth Avenue Sept. 18. One juvenile will be charged with

• Police were dispatched to the 7200 block of Clear Ridge in Centerville Sept. 15 to follow up on a phone call. Officers took information regarding concerns about a neighbor harassing the caller’s dogs.

• Officers responded to the 9100 block of South Highway Drive in Lexington Sept. 15 on report of a theft. The case is inactive pending suspect information.

• Officers responded to a domestic incident in Lexington Sept. 16.

• An officer conducted a traffic stop near Lake Drive and Lexington Avenue in Lexington Sept. 16. The driver was ultimately arrested for driving without a valid license.

• A caller in the 20 block of West Road in Circle Pines reported that a suspect stole a package from her step Sept. 17. The estimated loss is $100.

• An officer responded to the 9400 block of Lexington Avenue in Lexington Sept. 17. A caller reported that a suspect removed a package from the mailroom without permission. The estimated loss is $200.

If you’re going to use, know.

• A bicycle was reported stolen in the 7100 block of 20th Avenue in Centerville Sept. 18. There are no suspects at this time.

Over half of pills bought online or on the street contain potentially lethal doses of fentanyl. Test strips and info at fentfacts.com

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Over half of pills bought online or on the street contain potentially lethal doses of fentanyl. fentfacts.com ■

Over half of pills bought online or on the street contain potentially lethal doses of fentanyl.

each newspaper. Ads may need to be decreased/increased slightly in size to fit your column sizes. Please do not bill for these ads. If you have questions, please call MNA at 800/279-2979. Thank you.

Commerce Fraud Bureau investigation leads to charges against Blaine man in $650,000 fraud scheme

A former Vadnais Heights insurance broker has been charged with fraud after an investigation by the Minnesota Commerce Fraud Bureau found evidence he invented customers and faked Social Security numbers to earn nearly $650,000 in improper commissions.

The charges, filed this month in Ramsey County District Court, allege that Kevin Anthony Meyers, 48, of Blaine, submitted hundreds of policy applications from fictitious customers while working for Cigna Corp. from 2018 to 2020. Under the terms of his employment, Meyers was eligible for commissions even before customers paid premiums. The Commerce Fraud Bureau investigation found that 401 life insurance policies he claimed to have sold from May 2018 to June 2019 never generated a premium payment to Cigna. Some of the Social Security numbers on the policies did not exist or belonged to people who had died.

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Lyngblomsten hosts grand open house

Join Lyngblomsten at Lino Lakes for a grand open house from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 7. Enjoy familyfriendly activities, refreshments and entertainment; take a tour of the new senior living campus; and meet the staff. The event is open to the public and no RSVP is required. Lyngblomsten at Lino Lakes is located at 6070 Blanchard Blvd.

The charges say Meyers used the fraudulent commission payments to buy cars, airline tickets, and for shopping. His bank records show he paid $76,000 to a Jaguar Land Rover dealer and withdrew more than $100,000 in cash. Under terms of a civil consent order filed by Commerce in March, Meyers must repay $648,000 to Cigna within five years. The Department of Commerce, which licenses insurance brokers in Minnesota, revoked his insurance license retroactively and imposed a civil penalty of $100,000, which will be waived when he repays Cigna.

“Commerce’s mission is to protect the interests of Minnesotans and to ensure a fair and equitable marketplace in our state,” said Jacqueline Olson, Assistant Commissioner for Enforcement at the Commerce Department. “That includes thoroughly investigating any allegations of insurance fraud,

Oktoberfest-ivities at new Big Wood location

Big Wood Brewery will celebrate “Oktimberfest” from noon to 10 p.m. Friday, Sept. 29 and Saturday, Sept. 30; and from noon to 6 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 1. The free event will include craft brews, German beer hall music and food at the taproom’s future home, located at 3429 Centerville Road, at the corner of Edgerton Street, in Vadnais Heights. Day tickets and weekend passes are available at the White Bear Lake taproom. For information, visit bigwoodbrewery.com.

which harms both consumers and businesses. I’m proud of the work the Commerce Fraud Bureau did on this case.”

Some of his supposed customers told investigators they knew Meyers but had not purchased insurance from him. Meyers, whose office was in Vadnais Heights, also earned commissions after reporting sales to employees of a company called Synergy Benefits Solutions. Investigators determined that Meyers was the sole owner of Synergy.

“We are grateful for the hard work of the Minnesota Department of Commerce fraud investigators to bring this

case forward to our office,” Ramsey County Attorney John Choi said. “The burden of this type of fraud is shouldered by the public through increases in insurance rates, and the law enforcement focus on uncovering this type of financial fraud is our priority.”

The charges against Meyers include six felony counts of fraud, theft by swindle and identity theft. The most serious counts carry a sentence of up to 20 years in prison and a fine of $100,000. Meyers’ first appearance in Ramsey County District Court is set for Oct. 10.

Minnesota Department of Commerce

$2299

open house to provide input on the prepared alternatives for the corridor. A reconstruction project is planned for 2025.

Please visit the project website for updates: AnokaCountyCR49.com

CENTENNIAL INDEPENDENT SCHOOL

DISTRICT 12 SCHOOL BOARD MEETING SUMMARY AUGUST 21, 2023

(Abbreviated—full minutes available at www.isd12.org or call 763-792-6010 to request a hard copy) LEGAL NOTICE: School Board, Independent School District 12; 4707 North Road, Circle Pines, Minnesota; August 21, 2023.

1. Call to Order Chair Bettinger called the Regular Meeting of the School Board to order at 6:30 p.m. in the District Office Board Room. 2. Pledge of Allegiance 3. Roll Call The following members were present: Bettinger, ex-officio Holmberg, Knisely, Murphy, Schwinn, Johnson, Linser. The following members were absent: None. 4. Approval of the Agenda Motion to approve the agenda by Linser, seconded by Knisely. Vote: 6-0-0. Motion carried unanimously. 5. Public Comment None. 6. Consent Items 6.1. Approval of Minutes.

6.2. Approval of Monthly Disbursements. 6.3. Approval of Personnel Items.

6.4. Approval of Administrative Assistants Contract Settlement. 6.5. Approval of Kids Club Contract Settlement. 6.6. Approval of Paraprofessional Contract Settlement. 6.7. Approval of Overnight Field Trip. Motion to approve the consent agenda items as detailed in the enclosures by Johnson, seconded by Murphy. Vote: 6-0-0. Motion carried unanimously. 7. Curriculum 7.1. Staff Workshop Report - Executive Director Grossklaus gave an update on beginning of the year New Teacher Orientation, the Fall Teacher Workshop Schedule and the Paraprofessional Workshop Schedule. No School Board action is required. 8. Resource Management 8.1. Adoption of Acknowledgement of Contributions Resolution. Motion to adopt the Acknowledgement of Contributions Resolution by Linser, seconded by Schwinn. Roll Call Vote – Ayes: Bettinger, Knisely, Murphy, Schwinn, Johnson, Linser. Nays: None. Motion carried unanimously. 8.2. Long Range Planning Introduction - Superintendent Holmberg shared drafts of the Long Range District and Facilities Planning Overview/Timeline and the LRPC Guiding Change Document Draft for 20232024. No School Board action is required. 9. Supplemental Items 9.1. Policy - Superintendent Holmberg gave a brief overview of the revisions to four policies which will be brought to the board for discussion at the Work Session and adoption at the Board Meeting in September. No School Board action is required. 10. Communication 10.1. AMSD. 10.2. CAEF. 10.3. NE Metro 916. 10.4. SEE. 10.5. District Committee Reports. 11. Superintendent Report 12. Informational Items 12.1. Dates to Note. 13. Adjourn Motion to adjourn by Knisely, seconded by Murphy. Vote: 6-0-0. Motion carried unanimously. Adjourn at 7:05 p.m. Sue Linser, School Board Clerk Minutes prepared by Jody Josephson

Published one time in the Quad Community Press on September 26, 2023.

CITY OF CENTERVILLE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The City of Centerville Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, October 10, 2023 at the Centerville City Hall, 1880 Main Street in the Council Chambers beginning at 6:30 p.m. or shortly thereafter on the following matter:

To consider amending language or adding to the City Code, Chapter 91, Health and Safety; Nuisances, §91.04, Public Nuisances Affecting Health, (G), (4), adding language allowing for Native Landscapes per State Statute, §412.925; Chapter 156, Zoning Code, §156.006, Definitions, adding for Substance Abuse Treatment Clinics; and §156.031, Main Street Commercial District (B-2), (D) Conditional uses, adding (8) and (9) allowing for Clinics and Substance Abuse Treatment Clinics and Table 156-A.1 District Allowed Uses, allowing for Clinics to be in the (Main Street Commercial District, B-2 and the Commercial District, B-1) and Substance Abuse Treatment Clinics in the (Main Street Commercial District, B-2) as Conditional Uses, and §156.007, Accessory Structures and Uses, (A) Accessory Structures – Residential Uses, (3) allowing for accessory structures to be constructed on a parcel owned in tandem with an abutting parcel that has a principal structure constructed on it. City Hall is ADA accessible. Requests for hearing assisted devices or a sign language interpreter must be received before 4:00 p.m., September 29, 2023. All persons interested are invited to attend and to be heard or may submit in writing their concerns. You may contact the City Clerk’s office at (651) 792-7933 or by facsimile (651) 429-8629 if you need additional information.

Published one time in the Quad Community Press on September 26, 2023.

CITY OF CENTERVILLE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The City of Centerville Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, October 10, 2023 at the Centerville City Hall, 1880 Main Street in the Council Chambers beginning at 6:30 p.m. or shortly thereafter on the following matter:

To consider amending language to City Code, Chapter 156, Zoning Code, §156.052, (B), Permitted Uses, (1), Residential uses with a density between 12 and 30 units per acre. A corresponding Comprehensive Plan Amendment would also be required.

The purpose of both proposed amendments is to clarify discrepancies between City Code, the Downtown Master Plan and Development Guidelines, and the Comprehensive Plan, related to densities in Mixed Use Districts. City Hall is ADA accessible. Requests for hearing assisted devices or a sign language interpreter must be received before 4:00 p.m., September 29, 2023. All persons interested are invited to attend and to be heard or may submit in writing their concerns. You may contact the City Clerk’s office at (651) 792-7933 or by facsimile (651) 429-8629 if you need additional information.

Published one time in the Quad Community Press on September 26, 2023.

CITY OF CENTERVILLE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The City of Centerville Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, October 10, 2023 at the Centerville City Hall, 1880 Main Street in the Council Chambers beginning at 6:30 p.m. or shortly thereafter on the following matter:

ITEM: Request for Rezone from R-2 (Single-Family, Residential) to R-2A (High Density, SingleFamily, Residential)

Duck Hook Properties, LLC

The petitioner requests that the City consider rezoning from R-2 (Single-Family, Residential) to R-2A (High Density, Single-Family, Residential), allowing for conversion of the existing home to a duplex.

City Hall is ADA accessible. Requests for hearing assisted devices or a sign language interpreter must be received before 4:00 p.m., September 29, 2023. All persons interested are invited to attend and to be heard or may submit in writing their concerns. You may contact the City Clerk’s office at (651) 792-7933 or by facsimile (651) 429-8629 if you need additional information.

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 writing to request reasonable assistance to be able to participate in these proceedings.

Patrick Antonen, City Clerk

Dated: September 14, 2023

Published two times in the Quad Community Press on September 26 and October 3, 2023.

CITY OF CIRCLE PINES, MINNESOTA

NOTICE OF HEARING ON PROPOSED ASSESSMENT

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Council will meet at 7:00 p.m. on October 10, 2023 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 $4,300.00. 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:

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 of the City’s witnesses will be followed with the objector’s witnesses.

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 of evidence or testimony presented to the Council.

5. The entire proceedings will be digitally recorded.

6. At the close of 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 assessment to 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 writing to request reasonable assistance to be able to participate in these proceedings.

Patrick Antonen, City Clerk

Dated: September 14, 2023

Published two times in the Quad Community Press on September 26 and October 3, 2023.

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 11, 2023 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:

• Kavan Christmas Tree Farm o 1415 Ash Street o PID #34-31-22-31-0001

o Conditional Use Permit for Agritourism-Christmas Tree Farm

For further information regarding the above items, please contact City Planner, Katie Larsen, at 651-982-2426.

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 actually due and unpaid, the City may certify the unpaid charges

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.

Jolleen Chaika, City Clerk

Published one time in the Quad Community Press on September 26, 2023.

License: BC692167

VOTERS’ GUIDE 2023

CIRCLE PINES MAYOR

Dave Bartholomay

Age: 68         City of residence: Circle Pines

Occupation: Retired

List 3 most recent civic involvement

roles:

• Mayor of Circle Pines for 18 years

• President of the North Metro Mayors Association

• Hall of Fame, Centennial School

District

Q. What are your top three priorities for the city?

A. Continue ensuring tremendous police and fire services

Matt Percy

Age: 49 City of residence: Circle Pines

Occupation: IT application specialist with RBC Wealth Management

List 3 most recent civic involvement

roles:

• Circle Pines City Council

• Centennial Fire District Steering Committee

• BSA Scout Troop 65 Committee Member

Nici Dorner

Age: 42 City of residence: Circle Pines

Occupation: Teller

List 3 most recent civic involvement roles:

• Current City Council member.

• Volunteering at my Children's school and being a member of CEPO (Centennial Elementary Parent Organization)

Steve McChesney

Age: 42 City of residence: Circle Pines

Occupation: Manufacturing supervisor

List 3 most recent civic involvement roles: Currently serving my first term on the Circle Pines City Council, Nine years on the Circle Pines Planning Commission, four years as a Centennial Little League baseball coach.

Q. What are your top three priorities for the city?

A. 1. Public safety - Our number one priority as elected officials is to ensure our community is safe. Strong support of law enforcement and our firefighters along with partnerships with neighboring communities has resulted in lower

Rob Rafferty

City Residence: Pheasant Hills

Preserve, Lino Lakes

Occupation: Self-employed

List 3 most recent civic involvement

roles:

• City of Lino Lakes - City Council 20102019 / Mayor 2020 - current

• VLAWMO - Board of Directors, secretary/treasurer 2010 - current

• American Legion SAL- Adjutant / membership coordinator 2015 - current

Q. What are your top three priorities for the city?

A. Roads - the city's arteries, covering over 100 linear miles. All need upkeep and care. To address this, the city uses a 5-year review and grading process highlighting the positives of the best and the worst roads. Through this process, we create an aggressive approach to maximizing costs and projects in the coming seasons.

through partnerships with our neighboring communities. Help develop a plan to upgrade and maintain the parks and trails of the community, preparing them for continued usage. Work with the Centennial School District to continue supporting the children in our community.

Q. If elected, how would you involve the public in making major decisions?

A. The Circle Pines City Council is always looking to expand our outreach to make more citizens aware of what is happening in our city, and what they can do to help. Whether it be through better newsletters, North Metro TV, the Quad Press, or more Facebook and social media, we are working to get messages out so that we can get more citizen feedback and involvement.

CIRCLE PINES CITY COUNCIL

Q. What are your top three priorities for the city?

A. 1) Enhance the partnerships with our neighbors to deliver top-tier public safety.

2) Refresh and upgrade our parks and trails, including developing the missing link of the Rice Creek North Corridor Trail.

3) Preserve our newly rebuilt streets with proactive maintenance.

Q. If elected, how would you involve the public in making major decisions?

A. Nothing beats face time. As a council member, I worked with the city to deliver news of upcoming projects like street reconstruction directly to affected residents at their door-

• I also keep a watchful eye on my community and neighborhood. Pick up trash, look for suspicious activity. Just being generally a good neighbor.

Q. What are your top three priorities for the city?

A. Continued support for our police and fire departments. Update and maintain our parks and trails. Support our community.

Q. If elected, how would you involve the public in making major decisions?

A. I would involve the public by listening to their wants and

crime rates, improved fire response times and the stabilizing of costs to taxpayers.

2. Taxes/city spending - The city tax rate has been reduced in each of the past four budgets thanks to strong planning and smart financial decision making by the City Council and city staff.

3. Parks - Plans in progress to refresh/upgrade several city parks over the next few years.

Q. If elected, how would you involve the public in making major decisions?

A. As an active member of the community, I often communicate with neighbors and community members about what is being discussed at city hall. As a council, we continue to focus on ways to improve communication through print media, monthly newsletters and our growing presence on social media. Major issues are typically discussed over at least two

Q. What can the City Council do in the next five years to help the city prosper?

A. The Circle Pines City Council is successful because it works well together, creating very little of the ‘drama’ sometimes seen in other cities. Our goal is to keep focused on continuous improvement and efficiency of our core services, maintain good relations with the business community, and be on the lookout for innovative ways we can partner to achieve bigger things than we could do on our own. Supporting a strong and stable Centennial School District over the next five years will also pay big dividends now and down the road as our children find success.

steps. We need to continue this policy to help our citizens stay engaged.

Q. What can the City Council do in the next five years to help the city prosper?

A. Folks in Circle Pines know what to expect from their city: strong public services at a reasonable cost. The council should continue to plan its improvements out ten or more years, getting ahead of problems before they become liabilities and smoothing out the tax rate peaks and valleys often suffered in other cities with short-term thinking. Put simply: in the next five years we're going to keep doing what we have been for the past 15.

needs.  Their ideas and opinions are valuable.

Q. What can the City Council do in the next five years to help the city prosper?

A. I am new to the Circle Pines City Council and the council has done a great job and I'm excited to be able to play a part.  We will keep making the best decisions for our community, by engaging and listening to what are community tells us they need.  Anyone is welcome to attend our meetings and we'd love to see people there!

meetings allowing time for input from the community.

Q. What can the City Council do in the next five years to help the city prosper?

A. It will be important for the city to foster strong strategic partnerships in order to help manage costs while not reducing the service level necessary for our citizens. Partnerships such as our fire partnership with Centerville and the SBM Fire Department are a great example of a partnership that improved an important city service while also improving costs at the same time. Strong strategic planning and smart investments in infrastructure will reduce long term costs which limit the risk of large spikes in taxes. An example of this is the recently completed street and utility project which resulted in the reconstruction of nearly every road in the city and will save taxpayers money in the long run.

Parks are a product of new developments with future neighborhood development park dedication fees. Once they are in, the city does upkeep, maintenance, and overall redevelopment. As the equipment needs to change with age, re-investment is necessary to replace the equipment to comply with ADA standards.

Trails are our walking lifeline to good health. It gives all of us a chance to see the city's natural beauty while experiencing the peace of being out in the woods. We must protect these assets and create new segments to allow all neighborhoods these similar opportunities.

Q. If elected, how would you involve the public in making major decisions?

A. I will continue to reach out and talk to gather as much information as possible. I will ask questions to help educate not only myself but also others. I will leave nothing to be assumed, I will do so by remaining fiscally conservative in evaluating all benefits gained, versus those not gained for the city. I am there to represent you and will work to protect

those rights for the taxes come from each of our pockets not just mine.

Q. What can the City Council do in the next five years to help the city prosper?

A. Public Safety - as council, we will continue to support all efforts to provide Lino Lakes with the highest standards for public safety for both fire and police.

Development - I will work with the Council towards a more shovel-ready approach. The effort is the most progressive way of addressing areas of need. By extending city sewer and water services, we create an opportunity for commercial development to manage and enhance the tax base. We will continue working together to address the planning and design efforts behind the Water Treatment Facility (2024) and Public Works Facility (2026). Both are critical needs for today and our future.

I will always do so by keeping the city of Lino Lakes on the healthiest path for quality and success of development over quantity of a development.

LINO LAKES MAYOR

VOTERS’ GUIDE 2023

LINO LAKES CITY COUNCIL

Catherine Decker

Age: 42 City of Residence: Lino Lakes

Occupation: Human resources consultant, independent mortgage originator

List 3 most recent civic involvement

roles:

• Attendee at multiple recent City Council meetings

• Attendee and speaker at Rice Creek Watershed District meeting

• Citizen host for neighborhood camaraderie events

Q. What are your top 3 priorities for the city?

A. First: Modification to the complaint-based code enforcement system. The city treats all complaints as equal and

Chris Lyden

Age: Not provided City of residence: Lino Lakes

Occupation: Bachelor’s degree University of St. Thomas; Master’s degree in education, University of Minnesota; 34 years of teaching

List 3 most recent civic involvement

roles:

• 8 years City Council

• 3 years Planning and Zoning

• 12 years City Charter

• 18 seasons volunteered coach (youth football, basketball, little league baseball) 18 seasons.

• School coach St. Paul Academy, Totino Grace H.S. and University of St. Thomas

Q. What are your top three priorities for the city?

A. 1) A doctor takes the ‘Hippocratic oath’ – “First do no harm.” Our friends/neighbors live and have been drawn to Lino Lakes for its beautiful, natural, open aesthetics and wildlife it supports. Our schools are solid and our neighborhoods are safe. Our predominant challenge as we grow is to

Christopher Stowe

Age: 46 City of Residence: Lino Lakes

Occupation: MN licensed foreman plumber, farmer

List 3 most recent civic involvement

roles:

• Attendee and speaker at multiple recent City Council Meetings,

• Attendee and speaker at Rice Creek Watershed District Meeting,

• Citizen host for neighborhood camaraderie events

Q. What are your top 3 priorities for the city?

A. First: transparency. The citizens should be well informed

Michael S. Ruhland

Age: 41 City of residence: Lino Lakes

Occupation: Branch manager at a mortgage company and real estate investor

List 3 most recent civic involvement

roles:

• Lino Lakes City Council

• Anoka County Fire Protection Council

• Anoka County Board of Appeals and Equalization

Q. What are your top three priorities for the city?

A. My goals as your city council member would be to support our police, and fire departments, and ensure our public safety. I also want to continue to be forward thinking about expenses with that, so we do not have any large tax spikes despite these inflationary times. I want to keep taxes at or below their current level and look for ways to save as we’re growing.

I want to improve our infrastructure. This includes a

does not have a process for determining a complaint to be a nuisance complaint. It’s also a significant issue that the city is going after people for violating rules which don’t exist yet.

Second: Encourage divergent thought. Every vote at every city hall meeting I have attended has resulted in a unanimous decision and groupthink is akin to corruption. We need more diversity of thought, experience and interests on the City Council.

Third: Protect citizens’ rights. The city as well as other institutions don’t care about infringing on citizen’s rights as much as they care about advancing their own agenda. The city should participate in the protection of citizens’ rights and should champion the rights of its citizens. We are, after all, the reason the city officials’ jobs exist.

Q. If elected, how would you involve the public in making major decisions?

A. I would make it easy for people to get informed. Put the

accentuate these positive attributes and not diminish them!

2) All walks of life enjoy our trails. Emphasis on trail completion/maintenance is important to our community. WE LOVE OUR TRAILS. I have also been an avid promoter for creating a dog park for Lino Lakes. Always thought that how we treat our furry friends, says a lot about ourselves.

3) Another priority is attracting business. Not just any business, but businesses that fit our residents needs. I would love to see more rooftop restaurants, or perhaps a Culver’s or Chipotle.

Q. If elected, how would you involve the public in making major decisions?

A. Involving the public goes beyond major decision, for a “major decision” is often the one happening in your own backyard. Involving the public is a 24/7 commitment. It is all about cultivating a welcoming and open culture. My campaign signs say “always choose kindness.” I believe life is not about you, it is all about thinking about others! Being a humble public servant means actively listening to our residents, and honor their perspective.

Organizationally we connect with the Quad Press, North Metro TV, city website, quarterly newsletter, Anoka Special

and since the majority of the conversations regarding the city are not public, the public isn’t informed.

Second: Fiscal responsibility. The city has been opposed to raising taxes but has not limited the spending to the income and instead leverages bonding. Also, the city will soon be required to spend millions on a wastewater treatment plant and could have saved the expense and re-work had they done the proper planning.

Third: Protect citizens’ rights. The city as well as other institutions don’t care about infringing on citizen’s rights as much as they care about advancing their own agenda. The city should participate in the protection of citizens’ rights and should champion the rights of its citizens. We are, after all, the reason the city officials’ jobs exist.

water treatment plant for safer drinking water, a city works facility to keep our equipment out of the elements and lasting longer, improving our parks and Trails, and continuing to expand our street repair program.

I want to bring more commercial development into our city. The right kind of commercial development. Things that bring the community together and make us proud to live in our great city. This will help keep taxes low.

Q. If elected, how would you involve the public in making major decisions?

A. If I were elected again, I would involve the public in making major decisions like how I did in my first term. There have been several occasions as short as a couple of weeks ago where I suggested we hold an open house for the residents that would be impacted by a decision. When the Rookery was being opened, I suggested we send feedback postcards to all our residents with some different options that they could select. This also helps spread awareness of some of the changes happening.

Our city staff also does a great job at getting the word out. We have digital signs that they have placed on the road to

closed-door meetings into the public arena. Get a social media platform going and go to where the citizens are online. Make it easy for them to view, listen, interact, ask questions, understand the issues and become knowledgeable. Informed citizens will make the council's job harder so it’s understandable why getting informed on and involved in major decisions isn’t easy.

Q. What can the City council do in the next five years to help the city prosper?

A. They need to get to know the longstanding residents, understand their interests and represent them. This city is primarily made up of residents, not businesses. In order to honor and continue the legacy of our city and its values we need to be deeply concerned with the interests of our residents, especially longstanding residents.

Projects, Comprehensive Plans and 2020 vision plan was driven by public input

Q. What can the City Council do in the next five years to help the city prosper?

A. Taxes and inflation has hit everyone hard. Diversifying our tax base should be our goal. I have referred to the 300 plus acres in the corner of north-east Lino Lakes as our ‘Fort Knox’. Recent council decisions is moving this “golden opportunity,” from a wish list to a reality. Diversifying will hold down our residential tax rates while offering local employment.

Life is all about relationships. Paul Wellstone may have said it best, “we all do better, when we all do better.” It is vital that we create positive relationships, collaborations with individual citizens, chamber, Legion, businesses, schools, neighboring communities, Anoka County officials and state legislators.

You know the saying – “Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much.” I believe our residents will be best served by leaders remain humble. Leaders who have the courage to engage in cooperative, collaborative conversations for the good of Lino Lakes.

Q. If elected, how would you involve the public in making major decisions?

A. The public should be involved in the workshops, where all the important conversations happen. Let the citizens be included from the ground floor up. All the issues should accept and receive public comment.

Q. What can the City council do in the next five years to help the city prosper?

A. Include the public in the decision-making process, listen to the public’s voice, answer their questions and take their insight into consideration before making decisions. Also, be aware that the role of the council is to represent the citizens and their interests.

make residents aware of date, time and location of the open houses. Additionally, I always encourage residents to email me or call me, and they are always welcome to attend City Council meetings.

Q. What can the City Council do in the next five years to help the city prosper?

A. We need to expand our commercial development. I’m not talking about apartment complexes. My goal is to use my real estate experience to bring in good commercial retail development. Things that we have wanted for a long time. A grocery store, more restaurants, etc. I have brought a couple of great developments into our city. We need more, but the right kind. I want to review and update building ordinances. We want the perception that Lino Lakes is a great place to have your business and build a home. These few steps will bring in tax dollars to the city and help keep the tax low! We also need to stay focused on our infrastructure, public safety, the water we drink, our roadways, our parks, our trails. By that I mean, we need to be forward thinking while we’re growing.

HERNIA REPAIR?

Did you receive the Mesh Patch Between 2018 and the present?

WANTED: ALL 1970S MOTORCYCLES Running or not Titled or not Will pick up. Cash in exchange. Sell now before prices fall. Call Dan at 612/720-2142

JOB DESCRIPTION:

2011 Toyota Sienna XLE loaded; low miles est. 112k, rear DVD player all accessories, great condition garage kept, spent winters in Florida. Serviced by Maplewood Toyota all records available.

$13,995 six one two

599-1729

Birchwood Village Citywide Garage Sale

Friday, Sept 29 & Saturday Sept 30, 8 AM to 4 PM

OUTSIDE STORAGE!

RV's, Boats, Toys, Pontoons, Trailers Up to 50' deep spaces www.T35storage.com

One stop shopping

Offers an array of different contractors from yard work, handy man repairs, junk removal, carpenter, painter, electrician,etc. Ryan, 651-303-8053

EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY all real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or dis-

Three 100 lb L.P. Tanks, 3@$150 or $60 ea. 651-621-9559

Toro Power Broom

Used for clearing sidewalks, ice rink & driveway. Toro professional series $2,950

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Tow behind ice fishing house, Older King

Crow Brands Lots of extras, needs some TLC, asking $4800.

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JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

- Comfortable in Adobe InDesign

Mac based and cloud, with the minor use of Photoshop and Illustrator

- Build ads to customer specs, and assist the sales team with new ads for potential clients

- Follow a strict schedule with overlapping deadlines

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JOB DETAILS: - 12-25 hours per week

- M-F 7:55 - 5:30 varies by season

Email resume to: artmanager@presspubs.com

Now Hiring

Administrative Assistant Part Time, Mon. & Tues., 7:55am-4:00pm

Press Publications publishes 6 community newspapers, magazines and coupon books, serving White Bear Lake and surrounding communities. Our publications brings news of school events, government, business, politics, and social events to local residents.

Desired Skills & Experience:

High school diploma required.

Ability to interact well with a broad base of internal and external clients, both in person, telephone and written communication. Reliable, responsible, and dependable in fulfilling obligations.Strong attention to detail and the ability to organize, prioritize, and multi task effectively. User of Microsoft Office suite: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, as well as Microsoft Office.

DOC announces development of water management plan, updates on water quality

The Department of Corrections (DOC) will develop a comprehensive water management protocol plan across all facilities.

“Safe water is essential to the health and well-being of our staff and people we serve,” said DOC Commissioner Paul Schnell. “We are prioritizing the development and implementation of comprehensive water management plans for all Department of Corrections’ facilities,” Schnell added.

The DOC commissioner asked the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) to conduct additional comprehensive water testing at the Minnesota Correctional Facility (MCF)-Stillwater following concerns over the safety of the facility’s drinking water.

MDH staff collected samples from 81 tap sites at Stillwater, including faucets in living units, the kitchen, programming areas and a number of staff areas. While MDH is expected to provide a report to DOC later this week, preliminary results have not found any immediate risk associated with the facility’s drinking water.

While monthly water testing had previously shown no indication of a health risk in the drinking water at MCF-Stillwater, the commissioner’s

objective with the new round of testing was to assure both staff and the incarcerated population that the water is safe to drink. This level of facility water analysis had not happened in the past and exceeds federal and state drinking water sampling requirements.

In a separate development, water samples gathered during routine testing of samples from three of the 10 faucets at MCF-Lino Lakes have been found to have lead content that exceeds the EPA action level. The three sampling sites in question are bathrooms in programming buildings. The three faucet sites have been secured and are not in living areas or staff break areas.

While the level of lead found in the samples is below the level that would indicate an immediate health concern, health officials say consumption of lead at any level should be avoided. As a precautionary measure, the DOC will provide bottled water for staff and residents while a more comprehensive round of testing takes place.

There have been no reports of water-related illnesses among staff or the incarcerated population at MCFStillwater or MCF-Lino Lakes.

“Aging infrastructure is a challenge

across our state and will continue to pose a risk without recognition and investments,” said Schnell.

Given the age of most DOC facilities and the essential importance of safe water, and to provide transparency around water quality at DOC facilities across the state, the commissioner has directed the following action steps:

1. Develop, implement and initiate a comprehensive water testing protocol to be performed at all DOC correctional facilities within the next 45 days.

2. Implement the contracting procedure to hire a qualified contractor within four weeks to develop a water management plan for each DOC correctional facility, starting with MCF-Lino Lakes and MCF-Stillwater.

3. Post the Minnesota Department of Health Consumer Confidence Reports pertaining to water quality for each DOC correctional facility on the DOC’s public website.

4. Establish, recruit and hire an industrial hygienist position to give exclusive focus to water, air, and other environmental health concerns.

Department of Corrections

CHURCH BRIEF

hosts Family Fun Fall Fest

Bridgewood

Bridgewood Community Church, located at 11670 Lexington Ave. NE, Blaine, will host Family Fun Fall Fest from 3 to 5 p.m. Oct. 8. The free indoor event will be filled with food, games, crafts, face painting, a bouncy house and more. The event is geared toward families who have children ages 3 to grade 5.

Attendees are asked to bring snack donations for children in need at a local elementary school. Consider items like Goldfish crackers, Ritz peanut butter crackers, Nutri-Grain fruit bars, fruit cups or fruit snacks. For more information, visit bridgewoodcc. org.

10 Reasons to Smile

Cougar star lefty Whelan excited to join Gopher

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

Next stop for Will Whelan: The Big Ten.

The left-handed pitcher from Centennial has officially joined the Minnesota Gophers, moving into an athletic dorm on campus. He earned his shot at the Division I level via impressive performances with the Cougars and with Complete Game, his summer team.

“I am very excited to get things started. There are definitely some nerves, but that is typical,” said Whelan. Practices started Sept. 5. Along with workouts and honing fundamentals, they will have intersquad scrimmage thrice weekly. “There is no JV team,” he said, “and I do not plan on red-shirting. I hope to get a chance to prove myself this spring.”

Whelan, 6 feet and 200 pounds, had two banner seasons for the Cougars.

As a junior he struck out 37 batters in 23 2/3 innings while posting a 3-4 record against top opponents. Also a first baseman, he batted .440 with three homers and 25 runs-batted-in.

As a senior, he posted a 6-1 record, 2.27 ERA, and 83 strikeouts in 46 1/3 innings. He slipped to .231 at the plate but drew 26 walks.

In 2022, his last season with Complete Game, a baseball/softball

SPORTS BRIEFS

VOLLEYBALL

club team based in Lino Lakes, he went 4-0 in five starts, compiling a 1.50 ERA and 55 strikeouts in 28 innings, and hit .350 with two homers and 21 RBI’s.

This summer, Whelan had a new experience, joining the Willmar Stingers in the Northwoods League, a developmental league for college and college-bound players. He took some lumps in his first venture into the next level.

“Awesome opportunity … huge

jump from high school ball …. A great learning experience,” he reflected. In a league where a lot of runs are scored, he pitched in nine games (two starts) and gave up 18 runs and 26 walks in 19 2/3 innings. Still, he struck out 28 batters and got the win in three games that ended 18-4, 14-3 and 7-6.

Whelan was one of ten Gopher signees last November. In the press release, pitching coach Ty McDevitt praised his “solid three-pitch mix —

a fastball that rides, a slurve (show curve) with downward action, and a fading changeup.” He added, “With a long and strong build, athletic genetics, and a smooth arm action, there is a lot to dream about here. A left-hander with a powerful fastball and a good breaking ball.”

Whelan’s fastball topped out at 92 mph at Willmar this summer. Division I pitchers, he observed, range from 87 to 100. His velocity should increase as he develops in college. There’s much more to pitching, of course. “Being able to locate your pitches is a lot more important and effective,” he said.

Asked about hardball highlights so far, Whelan said his best high school game was the 2023 opener against Totino-Grace when he struck out 17 of 18 batters in six innings. He also listed hitting his first home run at age 10, and throwing complete-game shutouts at age 11 for a 12U all-star team. And this one with Complete Game: “I had to miss out on my first-ever homecoming dance in high school to pitch, and I threw a no-hitter.”

The competition gets a lot more challenging from now on. Whelan looks forward to it. “I’m hoping to develop more this fall,” he said, “with our awesome pitching staff at the University of Minnesota.”

Centennial is 5-8 overall and 1-2 in conference after a split last week. Osseo (7-4) held off the Cougars 25-21, 20-25, 25-20, 25-23 in a close one Monday. Elena Hoecke logged 22 kills, four blocks and two aces. Addison Kemper added nine kills (in 11 attempts) six blocks and two aces. “Elena and Addison were on fire,” said coach Nicole Christensen, adding that Emerson Jennings made some good setups for them. Ella Hohenstein had four blocks. The Cougars swept Coon Rapids (2-9) on Thursday 25-20, 25-18, 25-1, with .371 hitting efficiency and a .550 kill percentage, both season highs, led by Hoecke with 16 kills and Aubrie Wirkkala with 13. The Cougars at one point had an eighth-grader, two freshmen and three sophomores on the court, the coach noted.

GIRLS SOCCER

Centennial rumbled to three overmatched conference victories last week — over Elk River 4-0 at home Tuesday evening, Osseo 5-0 there Thursday and Coon Rapids 8-1 at home Saturday — extending their win streak

to seven. The Cougars are 7-1-1 overall and 7-0-0 in the Northwest Suburban for second place behind Blaine (9-0-0). They played at Blaine on Tuesday evening. (See presspubs.com for a report). For the week, Isabella Sipe scored five goals, Marisa Frost four, Alexis Larson three, Nora Helvig three, Amanda Miller one, and Kennidee McDonald one.

TENNIS

Centennial has 3-4 record in the conference and 4-13 overall. In the Northwest Suburban, the Cougars have beaten Andover 6-1, Park 7-0, and Coon Rapids 7-0. Lauren Klein, Emma Thompson and Isabel Lang are playing 1, 2, and 3 singles, respectively. Ella Fenstermacher/Sophie Wynn and Ella Nelson/Hanna Lofgren are playing 1 and 2 doubles.

ACE AT CHOMONIX

Mike Doyle shot a hole-in-one on Sept. 14 at Chomonix, using a pitching wedge on the 128-yard No. 6 hole. It was his second ace.

Bruce Strand

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Nora Helvig Centennial Soccer

Nora Helvig, junior midfielder and defender on the 7-1 Centennial soccer team, makes herself useful wherever she is deployed.

“Nora has been one of the most consistent players on our team,” coach Christa Carlson said. “She can play anywhere on the field. Her ability to win balls in the ‘mid’ is a key factor to our success.”

Helvig can find the net, too; she has scored on five of her 12 shots and made two assists. She is a second-year starter.

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With hunting seasons underway, DNR K-9s focus on protecting people

As the days turn cooler and hunting seasons kick off, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) K-9 Unit’s five teams are preparing to shift their focus to the field.

The three dogs trained to sniff zebra mussels will continue working to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species as long as there’s open water. However, all the handlers and their dogs will begin spending even more time on seasonal aspects of their work, such as locating lost hunters or other individuals, recovering evidence like spent rifle cartridges or shotgun shells, and detecting potentially illegally taken wildlife. They’ll also continue to assist the Minnesota DNR Enforcement Division’s law enforcement partners throughout the state.

This hunting season will be the first for K9s Bolt (whose partner is Conservation Officer Mike Krauel) and Jet (whose partner is CO Adam Seifermann). Those teams, as well as longtime handler CO Mike Fairbanks and his new K9 Fennec, all graduated from the St. Paul Police Department’s K9 School this past May.

“Each of our five teams is highly trained and, in most cases, the dogs can locate items or individuals far more quickly than humans could – if they could even locate them at all,” said Lt. Phil Mohs, who leads the K9 Unit. “The dogs are absolutely invaluable in our work to protect Minnesota’s people and natural resources.”

For more information, visit mndnr.gov/enforcement/k9.

UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA

Will Whelan, in the back row wearing the gray pin-striped jersey, posed with other Gopher signees in November.

“Your Financial Partner”

Nora Helvig

Ongoing Wine Club membership. See website for info. Two Silo Winery

Ongoing Winey Tour every Sat & Sun 4-5 p.m. Two Silo Winery

Ongoing Open to public Th-Su unless closed for private event Belle AmeVineyards

Sept. 25-

Oct.1 Oktimberfest party! At new location, 3429 Centerville Rd.