Lino Lakes dental studio voted ‘the best’ place to work
BY MADELINE DOLBY SHOREVIEW PRESS EDITOR
Each year, Press Publications hosts the Reader’s Choice Best of the Press Contest, asking locals to vote for their favorites, ranging from the best cup of coffee to the best boat landing and everything in between.
Rising to the top of the ‘Best Place to Work’ category in the Quad area is Renstrom Dental Studio, owned by Randi and Scott James.
Renstrom Dental Studio Inc. was established in 1966 by Robert (Bob) Renstrom and his father-in-
law, Albert Anderson. Bob, a World War II vet, was trained as a dental technician and was interested in trade, but was not interested in running a business, so he asked Albert to take care of that aspect. Together, they opened the first Renstrom Dental Studio on Front Street in St. Paul. Randi and Scott have owned the business since 2019. Previously, the business was located in Vadnais Heights. Renstrom Dental Studio moved to Lino Lakes, taking over the old Fairview clinic, in May 2023.
SEE BEST OF, PAGE 8
Lawsuit filed against 2 Lino Lakes council members
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
LINO LAKES — The city and two of its council members, Michael Ruhland and Christopher Lyden, have been named as defendants in a federal lawsuit that claims a residential development moratorium is discriminatory.
Plantiffs Jameel Ahmed and Faraaz Mohammed (also known as Yussuf), of Zikar Holdings LLC claim the Madinah Lakes project was discriminated against because Lino Lakes “does not want Muslims in their city.”
The suit was filed just after the council voted 3-1 to censure Lyden for an email response. (See story in this week’s issue for more information.)
“This is not the path we wanted to go down,” said spokesman for Zikar Holdings Jon Austin, of J Austin & Associates. “We wanted to work cooperatively with the city. We still would like to do that, but we feel the situation has reached a point where this was the necessary next step.”
The lawsuit alleges that City Council members have made a “series of discriminatory statements and official decisions in furtherance of that unlawful and unconstitutional purpose.”
Instead of fairly considering the merits of the development application for Madinah Lakes, the plaintiffs say the council adopted a “pretextual” moratorium prohibiting the proposed development in the northwest quadrant of the city.
The lawsuit also mentions the email response that Lyden was censured for. It describes the moratorium as “discriminatory, unlawful and unconstitutional.”
SEE LAWSUIT, PAGE 11
Local food shelves face difficulties in financial and food donations
BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER
A growing concern is building among the White Bear Lake, Hugo and Centennial food shelves. Financial donations aren’t keeping up with demand, which creates a challenge as they strive to meet the needs of those in the community who are experiencing
food insecurity. Now, they are looking to their communities to help turn things around.
At the White Bear Area Food Shelf, Executive Director Perry Petersen said the most significant challenges they faced have risen due to the increased need that followed the COVID-19 pandemic. “Our donations have kept pretty steady for
us,” said Petersen. “However, the growth of donations and support has not been able to fill the gap due to the big increase in need. It’s a considerable amount between where we were as an organization to where we’re at now.”
SEE DONATIONS, PAGE 9
CONTRIBUTED
Local food shelves are helping more residents who are experiencing food insecurity, but donations aren’t keeping pace.
CONTRIBUTED
Renstrom Dental Studio was voted ‘Best Place to Work’ in the Quad Press ‘Best of’ competition. See all the winners and finalists in the special pullout section inside.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
ONGOING EVENTS
HUGO SENIOR CITIZENS PLAY ‘500’
When: 12:45 p.m. The 1st, 3rd and 5th Thursday of every month
Where: Rice Lake Centre, 6900 137th St. N., Hugo 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
LEXINGTON FARMERS MARKET
When: 3-7 p.m. Wednesdays, through Oct. 6
Where: Parking lot of Lexington Municipal Liquor Store, 9271 South Hwy Dr.
Details: fruits, vegetables, wood crafts, Tupperware and Pampered Chef. New vendors each week. Contact: kgregory244@gmail.com
CURRENT EVENTS
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
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Political cartoons
I thoroughly enjoy your paper and keeping up with activities in and around our area. However, you must be balanced with your cartoons.
In the Aug. 13 edition of paper, there was a political cartoon pretty much trashing the Republican vice presidential candidate, J.D. Vance.
I have been patiently waiting for a similar cartoon that does the same for the Democratic VP candidate, Gov. Tim Walz.
David Peterson Lino Lakes
Paid Letter
Stop the hate
In the words of Robert F Kennedy, Jr., “Who needs a policy when you have Trump to hate?” The Democrat’s strategy of fanning the hate is all about suppressing Republican votes, and it’s showing up now in Minnesota.
The Democrats spend $500,000 or $1 million smearing and savaging a GOP candidate, portraying him/her as sub-human, deranged or weird in ads seen on YouTube or Facebook. By the time the election rolls around, you’ve seen hundreds of these ads, and you’ll believe the vile messages. The objective: fewer Republicans turning out to vote.
It’s obvious the DFL has already made Rep. Elliott Engen, first-term GOP legislator from Lino Lakes, their target. Rep. Engen’s earned a reputation as a skillful and shrewd debater and fighter against bad ideas down at the Legislature.
Why Engen? Elliot is an amazing person and incredible father and husband; he is an outstanding, independent free-thinking representative for the people and families in district 36A and for Minnesota. So, all his opponents can do is spend $500,000 in this district to malign and manufacture hate and distrust of Engen? It’s shameful.
Voters in district 36A should be incensed. Next time a Democrat comes to your door (if they come), say “Stop with your dirty work. Stop the hate!”
Roger Chamberlain Lino Lakes
COUNTY BRIEF
County approves 2025 preliminary levy
The county board has approved a 16.86% preliminary property tax levy increase. The preliminary amount reflects a multiyear approach by the county to bring deficit spending under control, with the goal being to have the levy at about a 5.25% increase annually by 2029.
Factors contributing to the increase include the cost of inflation, rising expenses for maintenance of county equipment and buildings, health care costs for employees, and the expenditures associated with attracting talent and keeping an engaged, productive workforce. The levy can be reduced prior to final approval this fall, but it cannot increase.
The county’s truth in taxation meeting will be at 6 p.m. Dec. 2. Details about that meeting will be posted on the county’s website, anokacountymn.gov.
The Board of Commissioners will approve the final levy and budget during its 9:30 a.m. Dec. 3 meeting.
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 Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku, with a certified guide. Registration information online.
Contact: anokacountyparks.com
OKTOBERFEST
When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 5
Where: American Legion Post 620, 5383 140th St. N, Hugo Details: The Stillwater Flea Market will host Oktoberfest at the Hugo American Legion. The event will include a variety of vendors as well as food and music. Contact: info@rsgdevelopment.com
LUNCH WITH A NATURALIST: SKULLS
When: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 9
Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino
Lakes
Details: Free naturalist-led program for those 50+. May include trail hike. Registration not required; equipment provided. Contact: 763-324-3350 or anokacountyparks.com
Fall Family Outdoor Expo
When: 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 5
Where: Golden Lake Park, Circle Pines
Details: Free event hosted by Centennial area
Scouting and outdoor groups includes activity stations including paracord bracelets, Lego Derby, model rockets, outdoor cooking, fire skills, nerf archery, and more.
Contact: troop136mn.com or cubpack432.com
DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES BRIEFS
Fall turkey hunting begins soon
The Minnesota fall turkey hunting season is open through Sunday, Oct. 27. Hunters are allowed to take one turkey of either sex during the fall season. Hunters may use a crossbow, bow or shotgun afield. Licenses are available for purchase online at mndnr. gov/buyalicense, by telephone by calling 888-665-4236 or in person anywhere Minnesota Department of Natural Resources licenses are sold. For more information about turkey hunting, visit mndnr.gov/ hunting/turkey
Check for invasive species
The DNR reminds lake property owners to carefully check boats and trailers, docks and lifts, and all other water-related equipment for invasive species when removing equipment for seasonal
storage. Several zebra mussel confirmations in recent years were initially reported by property owners and lake service providers while removing docks, boats and boat lifts.
Whether pulling equipment directly onto shore for the winter or transporting it on the road to a storage location, it is important for equipment owners to take steps to help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species.
Remember to:
• Keep docks and boat lifts out of the water for at least 21 days before putting them into another body of water. This is state law.
• Look on the posts, wheels and underwater support bars of docks and lifts, as well as any parts of boats, pontoons and rafts that might have been submerged in water for an extended period.
• If hiring a lake service provider to install or remove boats, docks, lifts or other water-related equipment, check that they are
on the permitted lake service provider business list on the DNR website. These businesses have attended training on Minnesota’s aquatic invasive species laws, and many have experience identifying and removing invasive species.
• Equipment owners may need a no-cost transportation permit online at mndnr.gov/invasives/ ais_transport.html to transport equipment from an access or shoreline property if it cannot be completely cleaned of aquatic plants or prohibited invasive species before transport.
• People should contact an area DNR aquatic invasive species specialist mndnr.gov/invasives/ ais/contacts.html if they think they have discovered an invasive species that has not already been confirmed in their lake. More information is available on the mndnr.gov/AIS.
Church Directory
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
am
We welcome you to worship with us
Virtually and in Person Sunday 9:30 am Fellowship & refreshments following the service 7330
Beyond the lens
As a staff writer for Press Publications, the stories I frequently write have opened my eyes to the importance of local journalism. As a dedicated reporter, I would encourage the public to subscribe to our papers to stay involved in what is happening across our coverage areas. While keeping readers informed of events, meetings and compelling human interest stories, Press newspapers allow readers to take a break from the national and global news hubbub. As a former creative writer, my foray into local news has been fantastic and speaks to my overall writing passion. Having recently participated in the Bald Eagle Art Crawl, I encourage our loyal readers to subscribe to your Press today, attend newspaper community events and spread the word about community bonding and local journalism.
But it isn’t just my journey as a writer that I want to stress the importance of having a direct change in how I view the world. Having pursued photography for five years, I don’t always believe in happy accidents creating the best shots I’ve ever taken. The first “good” picture I ever took (now sitting comfortably in my portfolio) came from pure luck, and in true cliched fashion, I remember it like it was yesterday. It was 2014, and I was starting my first fall semester at Century College after graduating high school. One of my first classes was a photography course; during one lesson, our teacher instructed us to go outside and test out the various Nikon cameras we could borrow. Not understanding much about shutter speed, composition or lighting, I noticed a single raindrop hanging on a blade of grass; curious, I bent down, pointed my lens forward and clicked.
The result, while fascinating, was only a by-product of curious happenstance. Beautiful and frame-worthy, yes. But I lacked foresight, much less the questions I needed to ask myself before I hit the shutter button: What did I want to take a picture of? How did I want to frame/light it? Edit it in post-production to look more enticing? They weren’t there, and neither were the answers. It wasn’t until five years later that I decided to try again.
In 2019, I bought a Nikon D60. I took more care in preparing my photos beforehand, such as shooting from better angles, using proper camera specifications and editing the results into what I deemed “eye-poppers” for my audience to wow over. While I no longer have these images in my portfolio, I still consider it a critical step in the evolution of my photographer’s journey.
The year 2022 brought new gear and opportunities to bring my work before new audiences. The following year saw dozens of photo galleries accepting my work for display across the country, with a few even making their way into Budapest, Hungary! Throughout these years, my choice of subjects for each photo varied: one would be an abstract blur of several people, and another would be a few hanging lights off a friend’s porch, shrouded in darkness. The State Fair even featured one of the former kinds of pictures at the Fine Arts Center last summer! I was growing not just in audience but in skill, too.
Recently, I have concentrated on shooting portraits. I have met most of these people through a Facebook group called “TFP Minnesota Photographers and Models,” which connects aspiring photographers and models throughout the Twin Cities to meet up and do portrait shoots for fun. Through these shoots (and making these connections), I feel I have cemented my niche as to what kind of photography I intend to pursue from this point forward. As a photographer, it is my duty to discover stories of finding the unknown within the known.
Erik Suchy is a staff writer at Press Publications. he can be reached at 651-407-1229 or email at whitebearnews@presspubs.com.
IA salute to a World War II vet
t’s a rare privilege to befriend a World War II veteran. It seemed a shame not to share some of his stories.
After being drafted and pulled out of high school in 1943, his preference was the Navy over the Army. There was just one remaining obstacle to the Navy, and it was on a piece of paper the sergeant was holding, “What’s the number on the page?”
The Corner
“Number? There are no numbers on that page, just a bunch of dots.”
“You’re colorblind son. Get in that other line over there.” And with that, my friend Ken’s service in the Navy ended and his Army service during World War II began.
His life as a soldier started in Ft. Callan, California where he lived in a big, open barracks, trained as an anti-aircraft gunner and endured Army food. One of the first things you learn about Ken is that he’s a vegetarian and a picky eater. Army food was a challenge then, but if you are color blind it’s hard to know what you are eating. So, when other soldiers went into town on the weekend, Ken would
take their Kitchen Patrol for a dollar here and there. That was a source of spending money and an opportunity to stock up on food he could actually eat.
When it came time to deploy, the need for anti-aircraft units had subsided since the Allies had achieved air superiority in Europe. As a result, the soldiers in his unit shipped as individuals to wherever they were needed. Ken deployed after D-Day but took a similar route to France; the Queen Mary to Scotland, trains overland to England and a landing craft to France.
Once in France, he joined the US 3rd Army and saw “some action,” the details of which we’ll not go into. As the lone new guy everywhere he went, he had to cope with some detachment from the teams that had trained together, but this detachment did offer some protection. Take the case of the 17-year-old medic whose parents gave him permission to join the military. He was killed instantly by a German sniper who put a bullet through the middle of the red cross emblem on his helmet, a blatant violation of the Geneva Convention. A loss like that of an acquaintance is bad enough, but it has to be a little less difficult than were he a close friend.
From there Ken went on to various units where he was a
scout, military police and helped to run both a P.O.W. camp and a displaced persons camp. There was also an ornery general, a dog, a house, a Christmas tree and some potatoes, but we’ll leave those stories for later.
By the time Ken and I were talking about his history for this column, we’d known each other for some time and I’d heard many of the stories already which he openly discussed. During those recent discussions he mentioned the “action” in France shortly after he arrived in Europe. This was new for me, so I asked him if he’d been part of that action. He hesitated just long enough for me to realize my error and I quickly told him I didn’t need the details. That hesitation was a plain reminder for me of the realities of war; they never leave you.
Ken is now a fit 99-year-old who’s been a widower for some time and is also an accomplished stainedglass artist. He’s been training me in his craft during our weekly visits. It’s an honor to spend time with him but we’ve also become friends, and I really enjoy our time together.
Paul Lundh is a longtime resident of Centerville and a periodic columnist for the Quad Community Press.
QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS | ELECTION LETTER GUIDELINES
• 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. Endorsement/opposition letters will have a $50 fee. Please call 651-4071200 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 number for verification.
• Letter-writers must live, work or have another connection to Press Publications coverage area.
Carter
• 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.
• Letters reprinted as part of letter-writing 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. 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.
Paul Lundh
Suchy’s Scoop
Erik Suchy
COPS&COURTS
The Centennial Lakes Police Department reports the following select incidents:
• Officers received a phone call Sept. 18 regarding suspicious activity in the 6800 block of 20th Avenue in Centerville.
• Police responded to a call regarding an accident Sept. 18 in the area of Lake Drive and Lexington Avenue in Circle Pines. The caller reported striking a deer in the area.
• Police handled a trespass incident Sept. 19 in the 6900 block of 21st Avenue in Centerville.
• Officers were dispatched to the 0 block of Shady Way Sept. 19 in Circle Pines to attempt to pick up a suspect in a felony violation. Officers did not make contact with the suspect.
• On Sept. 19 a community service officer noticed a bicycle tucked into the bushes behind a building in the 200 block of Civic Heights Drive in Circle Pines. The bicycle was taken to base and placed into the property room for safekeeping.
• Officers responded to an assault that had taken place Sept. 19 in the 4100 block of Lovell Road in Lexington. The suspect was arrested.
• Officers were dispatched to the area of Main Street and 20th Avenue Sept. 20 in Centerville on a property damage accident. Officers took information for a report. No injuries were reported.
• Officers conducted a traffic stop Sept. 20 in the area of Main Street and 20th Avenue in Centerville. One person involved was arrested on an outstanding warrant.
• Police responded to call a regarding an intoxicated male Sept. 21 in the 900 block of South Highway Drive in Lexington. The male was reported to possibly need medical attention. He was evaluated by EMS and released to his friends at the scene.
• Officers were dispatched to a report of a motorcycle theft that occurred in the 9000 block of South Highway Drive in Lexington Sept. 21. Officers took information for a report and entered the vehicle as stolen. Officers were notified by the owner shortly after that they had located the motorcycle hidden nearby and took it back.
• Officers were dispatched to the 8900 block of Syndicate Avenue in Lexington Sept. 22 after receiving a 911 call. Officers located the caller, who advised they had been involved in an argument. Officers determined no crime had occurred.
• Officers responded to a report of a two-vehicle accident Sept. 23 in the 0 block of North Road in Circle Pines. No further information was provided.
• Officers observed a vehicle driving into incoming traffic Sept. 24 near Restwood Road and Arona Avenue in Lexington. A traffic stop was initiated. The driver refused to perform field tests and provide a breath test. The driver was subsequently arrested for DWI.
Lyngblomsten offers ‘Powerful tools for caregivers’
The Lino Lakes Police Department reports the following select incidents:
• Officers received a report of a dog at large on Sept. 17 in the 7000 block of West Shadow Lake Drive. The dog was returned to its owner. An adult male was cited for a dog-at-large ordinance violation.
• Officers responded to a business in the 7000 block of 21st Avenue South to assist another agency with a juvenile Sept. 17. The officers took custody of the juvenile and transferred the juvenile to another agency.
• An officer responded to a suspicious activity report in the 900 block of Birch Street Sept. 17. The officer investigated and determined there were no problems.
• An officer responded to a neighborhood near Carl Street and Century Trail Sept. 17 on a report of a suspicious occupied vehicle. The officer spoke with the driver and learned there were no problems.
• An officer responded to a report of a runaway juvenile Sept. 17 in the 100 block of Woodridge Lane. The family later advised officers that the juvenile had returned home.
• An officer witnessed a vehicle hit a deer in the 1100 block of Main Street Sept. 18. The adult male driver was uninjured.
• An officer received a report of a violation of an order for protection Sept. 18 in the 0 block of Elm Street. An adult male was arrested and booked at jail for the violation.
• An officer assisted a resident in the 7100 block of Rice Lake Drive Sept. 18 with answering questions and offering resources concerning a scam attempt the resident received in an email. The incident was documented.
• Officers responded to a report Sept. 18 regarding suspicious juvenile activity in the 6300 block of Ware Road. Officers located the vehicle, conducted a traffic stop and advised the occupants to go home.
• Officers witnessed a revoked driver operating a vehicle Sept. 19 in the 6900 block of 21st Avenue South. The male driver was arrested, booked at jail and charged with the offense.
• An officer took a report of suspicious activity Sept. 19 in the 6300 block of Deerwood Lane where individuals had thrown items and substances on a resident’s driveway and at their vehicles. The investigation is ongoing.
• An officer handled a report Sept. 19 of a male in his yard in the 8100 block of Diane Street acting in a lewd manner on more than one occasion. The male was spoken with and warned against the behavior.
• An officer responded to a residence in the 7400 block of Emily Circle Sept. 19 for a possible missing juvenile. Upon investigation, the officer found the juvenile was not missing and was in a safe location.
• Officers responded to a report Sept. 19 of a vehicle rollover on the freeway. The driver was transported
Lyngblomsten will offer a sixweek virtual class for caregivers to learn how to better take care of themselves. The class will meet online via Zoom from 3:30 to 5 p.m. Mondays, Oct. 14, 21 and 28 and Nov. 4, 11 and 18. Any caregiver of an older adult living with a chronic condition (diabetes, dementia, high blood pressure, cancer, hypertension, etc.) is welcome to attend. Caregivers will improve self-care practices and their ability to manage emotions as well as increase their confidence in coping with the demands of caregiving. Visit https://yourjuniper.org/ Classes/Register/4518 to register by Oct. 4. Contact Lisa Brown by at 651-632-5320 or by at caregiving@ lyngblomsten.org for questions.
to the hospital by ambulance.
• Officers responded to a report of suspicious activity at an abandoned property Sept. 20 in the 7600 block of Lake Drive. The property was checked and a request was made with management to improve security at the site.
• An officer responded to a residence in the 100 block of Century Trail Sept. 20 for a report of theft. The incident is under investigation.
• Officers responded to a noise complaint Sept. 21 in the 2300 block of Delina Circle. Officers spoke with the resident causing the noise, who stated he would keep the volume down.
• An officer received information Sept. 21 of a possible violation of a court order. The officer investigated the violation and ultimately arrested a male in the 6000 block of Sargent Court N. for violation of the order.
• An officer responded to a residence in the 200 block of Rohavic Lane Sept. 21 on a report of an illegal burn. The officer educated the homeowner on the ordinance governing the size limit of a recreational fire and how to apply for a burn permit, if needed.
• An officer responded to a driving complaint Sept. 21 near the intersection of Apollo Drive and Lake Drive. The officer located and stopped the vehicle. The driver was arrested for second-degree DWI and was later booked into jail.
• An officer responded to a found and contained dog at a residence Sept. 22 in the 2000 block of Cypress Street. The dog was impounded at a local animal facility.
Council censures 1 of its members after email disclosed
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
LINO LAKES — The City Council has elected to censure one of its members after the member’s response to an email from a citizen was disclosed.
The council voted 3-1 (Council Member Michael Ruhland opposed) to pass a resolution censuring Council Member Chris Lyden for replying to an email that contained “significant negative and derogatory commentary related to the Koran and the Muslim faith.”
Since August, the Minnesota Chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-MN) and some Quad area residents have demanded that Lyden resign from the council. (See “Anti-Muslim email sparks call for council resignation,” Quad Community Press Aug. 20.)
The resolution reads in part, “Council Member Lyden’s reply could be interpreted by some as endorsing the views and opinions expressed in the email, and Council Member Lyden’s response was inappropriate and reflects poorly on the city.”
According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, censure means “a judgment involving condemnation; the act of blaming or condemning sternly; or an official reprimand.”
Lino Lakes resident Elizabeth Larkin opposed the censure, as she said it would “cancel” Lyden.
“Cancel culture suppresses free speech, causing all of society to become hesitant to share opinions, ideas or thoughts, good or bad, out of fear of being canceled for saying something that is considered controversial about a different perspective,” she said. “I believe in holding each other accountable through constructive feedback as opposed to condemnation and negatively canceling a person.”
CAIR-MN Executive Director Jaylani Hussein said he didn’t think censuring Lyden went far enough and called for his resignation.
“It has been (over 50 days) since that email has been sent,” he said. “If we are going to follow the rules, those rules should apply to all of us. And that did not happen. You need to resign. The rest of you (council
LINO LAKES CITY COUNCIL SNIPPETS
• Resident Jackie Lindbloom is requesting that the council not make any changes to its home occupation ordinance. Recently, resident Connor Mattioli requested the council strike language from the ordinance to allow home-based businesses to involve explosives, ammunition or weapons.
“I don’t know the person requesting this change and have no specific objections to gun ownership or weapon sales. But consider the broader perspective of the next person who uses this as a precedent to request a change to the ordinance,” she said. “There are specific areas for where these businesses are approved and are welcome. A residential area should not allow these businesses.”
• Everlight Solar’s (Sunburn Construction) solicitor permit has been amended to allow for two additional salespeople, Thomas Knoke and Christopher Perez. The company, located in Brooklyn Park, was issued a sixmonth solicitor’s license in July.
• Election judges are now in place for the general election Nov.
5. Minnesota Statute §204B.021, Subd. 2, requires that appointments be made at least 25 days before the election at which the judges will serve and that additional appointments may be made after the 25-day mark should the need arise.
• The Lino Lakes Lions (Oct. 5), St. Joseph of the Lakes Catholic Church (Nov. 26) and the Knights of Columbus (Jan. 4, 2025) all plan to hold events that require exempt gambling permits, which have been approved by the council.
• Jon Stalker will take over as paid on-call district chief at Fire Station No. 2 Oct. 1. He has been a member of the fire team since 2017 and was promoted to fire lieutenant in 2019. Stalker’s hourly rate of pay will remain the same, but as a district chief he will receive a $300 monthly stipend.
• The city has canceled the 2025 levy for general obligation (G.O.) capital note Series 2016A. In February 2016, the council authorized the issuance of a capital note payable to the city of Circle Pines to finance the city of
members) need to hold him accountable. It is a sad day for Lino Lakes.”
Council Member Michael Ruhland shared his opinion. “I feel like you used city resources to respond from a personal perspective, which is against our code of conduct. You should be using your personal devices or emails for personal matters,” he said.
Mayor Rob Rafferty added, “You are a council member now, that has to be held to a different standard … That is not how the city is trying to address some things.”
Lyden responded, “The email in question was sent to me and CAIR. As I have repeatedly said, I support all my brothers and sisters, all races, all religions. My issue is with the CAIR organization … council members appeasing the CAIR organization, and their tactics of bullying, intimidating and hate is simply wrong.”
Lyden shared that he had never before been accused of being a racist. He suggested the council consider making some changes to the resolution that was drafted by City Attorney Jay Squires because some of the language did not have “any-
Lino Lakes’ share of the cost of capital equipment to be used by North Metro Telecommunication Commission (NMTV). According to Lynch, while the required tax levy extended into taxes payable 2025, the final debt service payment on the G.O. capital note, Series 2016A, was made to the city of Circle Pines in 2024 with the use of fee revenues from NMTV.
• The city will sell fire vehicle No. 621 to the Brooklyn Center Fire Department for $201,000. The vehicle was listed at $225,000. Deputy Director Dan L’Allier said the Brooklyn Center Fire Department has an immediate need stemming from a traffic crash that totaled one of their primary fire engines.
• An agreement is now in place with the Minnesota Public Facilities Authority (MPFA) for a loan related to the construction of the new water treatment plant. During the 2023 legislative session, $13.5 million was appropriated to the MPFA for a grant to the city of Lino Lakes for the water treatment facility. Additionally, the city is receiving a $3 million grant through the
thing to do with” censuring a council member.
“A resolution is the strongest action they can take. Citizens are going to wonder why you are taking the strongest action for something that is so trivial. I suggest you throw this in the wastebasket,” Lyden remarked.
Ruhland said he would not be opposed to changing some of the language in the resolution and suggested the council give it more time so changes could be run by Squires.
Council Member Dale Stoesz suggested the council stick with the resolution as drafted. “I think time is a factor here. I just want to move on.”
Per the resolution, Lyden’s “response neither reflects the views of the city or the views of the City Council. The council disavows the email response in its entirety.”
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or quadnews@presspubs.com.
MPFA Emerging Contaminants program along with a low-interest loan through the Drinking Water Revolving Loan Program for the balance of the project cost ($15,996,190).
The MPFA will provide a low-interest loan (1.947%) to finance the portion of the project that is not funded by grants. The city will issue and the PFA will purchase a G.O. water revenue note for the principal amount to secure the loan. In issuing the loan, the city is pledging water utility revenues to pay the principal and interest on the note. In the event these are insufficient, the city pledges ad valorem tax revenue to support the debt service.
• The city will retain Kimley Horn for $479,075 to prepare the Main Street Corridor Master Plan and Alternative Urban Areawide Review (AUAR). Community Development Director Michael Grochala explained that the overarching goal of the process is to develop a master plan for the study area that will provide a more detailed guide for development over the next 20
years and beyond. The planning process will include the preparation an AUAR to address the overall impacts of development within the area and create a specific mitigation plan outlining requirements for development. The city is in the middle of a yearlong moratorium on residential development in that area of the city. Grochala said the master plan will likely be completed during that time, but the AUAR process might drag out a bit longer. “We are obviously a month in already … We are probably still a month or month and a half out before we get public information out on this,” he said. He added that any projects for the area would be on hold until the AUAR is complete.
The next City Council work session will be at 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 7, at City Hall. The next regular meeting will be at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 14.
Shannon Granholm
PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES
OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME
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 Published two times in the Quad Community Press on September 24 and October 1, 2024.
CENTENNIAL
INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 12
SCHOOL BOARD MEETING SUMMARY
AUGUST 19, 2024
(Abbreviated—full minutes available at www.isd12.org or call 763-7926010 to request a hard copy) LEGAL NOTICE: School Board, Independent School District 12; 4707 North Road, Circle Pines, Minnesota; August 19, 2024. 1. Call to Order Chair Knisely 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: Knisely, Linser, Murphy, Schwinn, Johnson, ex-officio Holmberg. Member Bettinger was absent. 4. Approval of the Agenda Motion to approve the agenda by Murphy, seconded by Schwinn. Vote: 5-0-0. Motion carried unanimously. 5. Public Comment None. 6. Consent Items 6.1. Approval of Minutes: Work Study Ses-
sion Minutes of July 1, 2024 and Regular School Board Meeting Minutes of July 15, 2024. 6.2. Approval of Monthly Disbursements. 6.3. Approval of Personnel Items. 6.4. Increase in Adult Meal Prices for 2024-2025. 6.5. Approval of Overnight Field Trips. Motion to approve the Consent Agenda Items as detailed in the enclosures by Murphy, seconded by Schwinn. Vote: 5-0-0. Motion carried unanimously. 7. Curriculum 7.1. Staff Workshop Report - Executive Director Grossklaus gave a brief overview of upcoming workshop week schedules and staff development opportunities for the 2024-2025 school year. No School Board action is required. 8. Resource Management 8.1. Approval of Superintendent of Schools Contract - The Centennial School Board and Jeff Holmberg, Superintendent of Schools, have reached an agreement for the 2025-26, 2026-27 and 2027-28 school years. Motion to approve the Superintendent of Schools Contract for the 2025-26, 2026-27 and 2027-28 school years by Johnson, seconded by Linser. Vote: 5-0-0. Motion carried unanimously. 8.2. Adoption of Acknowledgement of Contributions Resolution - Motion to adopt the Acknowledgement of Contributions Resolutions by Schwinn, seconded by Murphy. Roll Call Vote – Ayes: Knisely, Linser, Murphy, Schwinn, Johnson. Motion carried unanimously.9. Supplemental Items 9.1. Approval of 2024-2025 School Board Listening Session Schedule - Motion to approve the 2024-2025 School Board Listening Session Schedule by Johnson, seconded by Schwinn. Vote: 5-0-0. Motion carried unanimously. 9.2. Repeal of Policy #540 Photos and Videotaping of Students Components outlined in Policy #540 are procedures that the district has in place. Families may annually opt out of having their student(s) photographed or videotaped and may change the settings anytime in their Infinite Campus Parent Portal. Motion to Repeal Policy #540 Photos and Videotaping of Students by Linser, seconded by Johnson. Vote: 5-0-0. Motion carried unanimously. 10. Communication 10.1. AMSD. 10.2. CAEF. 10.3. NE Metro 916. 10.4. SAFF. 10.5. District Committee Reports. 11. Superintendent Report 12. Informational Items 12.1. Dates to Note. 13. Adjourn Motion to adjourn by Murphy, seconded by Schwinn. Vote: 5-0-0. Motion carried unanimously. Adjourn at 7:10 p.m. Craig Johnson, School Board Clerk Minutes prepared by Jody Josephson Published one time in the Quad Community Press on October 1, 2024. CITY OF LINO LAKES
NOTICE OF PUBLIC ACCURACY TEST
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 Friday, October 11, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. at Lino Lakes City Hall, 600 Town Center Parkway, Lino Lakes, MN 55014. Questions can be directed to the
City Clerk’s office at Clerk@linolakes.us or 651-982-2499. Roberta Colotti, CMC, City Clerk Published one time in the Quad Community Press on October 1, 2024. CITY OF CIRCLE PINES
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
Sealed bids in duplicate will be received by City of Circle Pines for 2024 Roof Replacement at the Public Works Building until 2:00 PM, October 22, 2024 at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud. Bidders are invited to attend. Bids received after this time will be returned unopened. Bids shall be upon form provided in the Bidding Documents. Envelopes containing bids must be sealed and marked “2024 Roof Replacement at the Public Works Building”, with the name and address of the bidder, and the date and hour of the opening. Bids shall be delivered to: Patrick Antonen City of Circle Pines 200 Civic Heights Circle Circle Pines, MN 55014
The complete form shall be without alterations, additions, or erasures. All bids shall be on a lump sum basis. The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all bids and to waive any irregularities in bids.
Bidding Documents are available for $22 via digital download at www. questcdn.com or www.inspec.com. Contact QuestCDN.com at 952-233-1632 or info@questcdn.com for assistance in free membership registration, downloading, and working with this digital project information. Plan Holders are parties that have downloaded the plans and specifications. Plan holders will be notified via email as addenda are issued. Copies of
BEST OF: Owners lift up employees
“It was really cool,” said Scott when he found out they won the title. “We were like, ‘Oh, this is amazing!’ because it feels like a little bit of validation that we are doing it the right way.”
Scott added that it is rewarding to know they are creating an environment where people feel excited to come to work.
“It truly means the world,” said Randi when asked about how it feels to win. “We are hoping to create a great environment, and this is kind of validation of, ‘Hey people are actually liking coming to work.’”
Since 2020, Renstrom has grown from 35 employees to 65.
“They (Randi and Scott) really care about everyone here. They’re fun,” said Mike Claugherty, a Renstrom employee for the past two years. “It’s fun to be here,” he added. Claugherty helps with dental implants.
One thing that drew Claugherty to Renstrom was the fact that it was a family-owned business.
“It has a reputation of a great place to work,” he said. He added that everyone at Renstrom works as a team and talks to one another to help create that team-like atmosphere.
Courtney Bennett has worked at Renstrom for the last 5 1/2 years. She is a computer-aided designer/manufacturer, and helps makes dental crowns and bridges.
“We work really hard,” she explained. “But it just seems to be a really comfortable environment compared to other places.” Bennett added that employees are trusted to be driven, motivated and responsible for themselves.
She said that the reason she believes Renstrom is set apart from other businesses is how comfortable it is to work for Scott and Randi.
“You can talk to them about anything, and everything, and they are always respectful and listen to you,” she explained.
Bennett added that Renstrom deserved the title of “Best Place to Work” because Randi and Scott treat employees as equals. She concluded that Randi and Scott seem to be interested in raising employees up.
Renstrom Dental Studio is located at 7455 Village Drive in Lino Lakes. To learn more, go to www.renstrom.com.
Madeline Dolby is editor of the Shoreview Press. She can be reached at 651-4311226 or shoreviewnews@presspubs.com.
CONTRIBUTED
An old dental chair that Randi’s father rebuilt in 2017 is on display at Renstrom Dental Studio.
MADELINE DOLBY | PRESS PUBLICATIONS
Randi (left) and Scott (right) took over Renstrom Dental Studio from 2019.
DONATIONS: Greater financial support needed to keep
FROM PAGE 1
Petersen said the food shelf has seen steady growth in both the number of people visiting the food shelf as well as financial donations for several years. This has led to plans by the organization to open a second location to address the increased need for services. The food shelf’s Community Market, located next to Normandy Park Education Center, opened earlier this year.
However, the food shelf’s increased capacity to serve people has also come at a time when inflation has driven up food prices and the cost of living, which Petersen said has made it harder for people to donate finacially to the food shelf. “The gap for us has not necessarily been food donations, but monetary ones that we need for funding and to buy healthy food for our clients,” said Petersen. “We want to encourage people to have access to fresh foods, such as frozen meats, dairy and fresh produce.”
The cost of food has likewise created a sizeable gap in the organization’s budget. Peterson reports that a 24% increase in financial support is needed to help the White Bear Area Food Shelf meet the need for the coming year. “The price of (purchasing) food has shot up more than we anticipated. Our donations have grown incrementally, but not at the rate of the need or the cost of food,” he said.
Hugo Good Neighbors Food Shelf
At the Hugo Good Neighbors Food Shelf, Building Director Chris Dufresne also noted a steep drop in donations over the past two years. “Our financial donations are down 53% compared to how they were in 2022,” said Dufresne. “Food donations for us are also down 34%.” Dufresne noted that, unlike the White Bear Area Food Shelf, the Hugo organization saw decreased need for food due to the financial assistance residents received from the government during the pandemic.
Dufresne also highlighted inflation and the rising cost of food and building expenses as contributing factors to the food shelf’s budget challenges. “What people need to understand is what it takes for a food shelf to operate these days because of the expense of
CONTRIBUTED
Centennial Food Shelf Director Sheri Hanson said that they are facing a drop in financial donations much like the Hugo Good Neighbors Food Shelf is experiencing
CIRCLE PINES CITY COUNCIL SNIPPETS
• The Centennial Utilities Commission will donate $500 to the Centennial Fire District for the Meals from the Heart initiative.
• Air Comfort Heating and Air Conditioning Inc.’s business license has been renewed for 2024.
• On Oct. 8, the City Council will certify the delinquent utility accounts to the county to be included on next year’s property taxes. City Administrator Patrick Antonen explained that the number of delinquent accounts this year is down from previous years due to a variety of factors, including a low water usage year, a warm winter and natural gas prices being relatively cheap. In total, there is approximately $30,000 in outstanding utility bills.
the building,” said Dufresne. “We have electric and utility gas bills, just like everyone else. We’re also finding that because food donations are down, we have to purchase more food.” Dufresne also noted that the food shelf also has had to account for an increase in the cost of labor. “When we started prior to the pandemic, we were at two part-time employees,” said Dufresne. “Since then, we’ve increased to about four to five part-timers.”
Dufresne said he wants to let people know that despite the shortage in donations, the food shelf is here for those who need help. “I want to encourage people to come to us if they need our services,” said Dufresne. “We would like the community’s help during these challenging times. While financial donations are the best way to get the biggest bang for the buck, we still welcome fresh food from those who can donate to us.”
Centennial Food Shelf
Centennial Food Shelf Director Sheri Hanson said their food shelf is experiencing similar difficulties, and highlighted the increase in food prices as the reason for decreased financial donations. “I think a good part of it is how expensive all of our basic needs of groceries have gone up,” said Hanson. “That includes (donors) having to feed their own families, which means they have less to share with charities.”
Like White Bear, the Centennial Food Shelf received an incredibly high number of donations during the height of the pandemic before donations decreased in 2022. “We were amazed at how much money was coming in and how many food donations were coming in,” said Hanson. “In 2022, we saw a drop in financial donations and clientele.”
One reason visits to the Centennial Food Shelf may have dropped is that it is no longer serving as many people outside of the community. Hanson stated that during the pandemic, the food shelf was giving bags of government surplus-type food to those outside their service area in order to tackle food insecurity. “We would give them a basic package, but we wouldn’t give them all of our nonperishable items because we could not keep up with our inventory,” said Hanson. She said the food shelf has returned to focusing efforts in its own service area. “We give them the basics and tell them where they can go in their own area, and keep the items available for those in our community.”
Despite the drop in financial donations, Hanson said that the Centennial community has been very generous with food donations. “Our community is wonderful,” said Hanson. “They come through with donations, food drives and local churches, all of which help bring them in.”
Those interested in making a financial donation to the White Bear Area Food Shelf can go to whitebearfoodshelf.org. Donations to the Hugo Good Neighbors Food Shelf can be made online at hugofoodshelf.org/give/ or by mail to Hugo Good Neighbors Food Shelf, P.O. Box 373, Hugo, MN 55038. Financial donations to the Centennial Food Shelf can be sent online at givemn.org/organization/ Centennial-Community-Food-Shelf, or by mail to Centennial Food Shelf, P.O. Box 8, Circle Pines, MN 55014.
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.
Election judges are now in place for the Nov. 5 election. Antonen shared that early voting is already in full swing. “It has been busy already … It has been constant. There is always someone at the front desk filling out their absentee ballot,” he said.
• The city is in the middle of two court cases regarding the former Down Under Property, located at 10100 Lake Drive. Antonen said the Pawlik vs. Circle Pines case has been continued for a month, but in the case relating to the condemnation of property, the judge has issued a ruling that includes next steps.
“We can keep moving forward,” Antonen said.
• The next committee meeting
for the city’s 75th anniversary celebration is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 18. All are invited to attend.
• The preliminary levy and budget has been set at $3,233,670, which represents a 6% increase from 2024. The council can decrease the levy amount, but it cannot increase it. (See full story in this week’s issue for more information.) The truth in taxation public hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, Dec. 10.
The next City Council meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 8 at City Hall.
Shannon Granholm
Cougars show flaws, firepower in win at Osseo
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
Centennial Cougars posted a 36-14 win at Osseo on Friday evening, improving to 3-2 for the season.
Caleb Melser bulled for 85 yards in 21 carries with touchdowns of two and one yard, Ben Clauson busted a 10-yard touchdown run, Isaac Belinske-Strauss passed to Kellen Binder for an 18-yard score, and backups Brody McNamara and Finn Wold connected for a 30-yard touchdown during a wild final minute.
Osseo (1-4) rolled up 174 yards rushing and 177 passing but the Cougars were in control throughout.
“Too many mistakes,” groused Cougar coach Mike Diggins, listing some faulty executions on offense, missing tackles, a fumble on a handoff, missed blocks, and often
not meshing with each other. “But, there were good things, too, and, like I told the kids, a win is a win, so enjoy it,” Diggins said. “But we have to play better than that against teams we have coming up, or we’ll lose.”
The Cougars rushed for 111 yards in the first quarter and led 14-0 after drives of 65 and 80 yards were capped by Clauson and Melser touchdowns.
Belinske-Strauss (3-for-4 for 55 yards) hit Binder for an 18-yard touchdown on a screen pass, and Clauson for a two-pointer. Belinske-Strauss netted 42 yards on nine keepers, including a 23-yard gain. Brady Haffemen added 42 yards on five totes and Tanner Dittrich 28 on six carries.
Diggins said Belinske-Strauss still has a ways to go but likes the progress the junior quarterback is making in the crucial task of running the option offense. “He is
Cougar netters finish 6-4 in conference
showing flashes. He’s pitching the ball better and making some good throws.”
Osseo quarterback Wes Kranz completed 11 of 25 for 177 yards with two interceptions. He hit Iggie Cooper touchdowns of 32 and 26 yards, the latter pulling the Orioles within 22-14. Michael Criswell gained 61 yards in six carries, including a 29-yard gain.
Centennial’s Alhaji Harris and Justin Driver intercepted passes. Harris made an end zone pickoff and returned it 64 yards but 30 yards were taken away due to a pair of penalties (illegal block, unsportsmanlike conduct) on the play. Driver was also 4-for-4 on extra points, and his looping, hard-to-handle kickoffs had Osseo starting from the ten, nine, and 18-yard lines. With a minute left, the Cougars were in running-out-theclock mode with first down at the Osseo 30 and a 29-14
The Centennial tennis team won its last two conference matches, over Totino-Grace on Tuesday and Spring Lake Park on Thursday, both 5-2, finishing 6-4 in the Northwest Suburban. They lost to champion Maple Grove 7-0 on Monday.
The Cougars capped the regular season 9-8 overall and are seeded seventh of 15 teams in Section 4AA. They will host St. Anthony or St. Paul Johnson on Tuesday, and play again Thursday if they win.
Lauren Klein, a junior who’s played 1-singles for three years, won her match in both victories. So did Isabel Yang at 3-singles, Jenna Orcutt/Hanna Lofgren at 2-doubles, and Tiffany Lee/Claire Olson at 3-doubles, including a 7-5, 7-6 (12-10) squeaker vs. SLP.
Medha Abdiappen pulled out a 4-singles duel against T-G by 6-7 (6-8), 6-4, 10-7. Emma Thompson at 3-singles, and Sophie Wynn/Ella Nelson at 1-doubles, won against SLP.
Bruce Strand
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Caleb Melser
Centennial Football
Caleb Melser, Centennial junior fullback, emerged as the workhouse in the Cougar attack after all the offensive stars of last year’s state champion team graduated. At 5-foot-9 and 190 pounds, he’s mainly a straight-ahead runner so far, bashing the defense for the tough yards, scoring eight touchdowns in five games for the 3-2 Cougars while carrying 104 times for 418 yards. “Caleb is the dude for us. He always runs hard,” coach Mike Diggins said. “He’s quick. He’s fast. He’ll get better at making cuts. He’s not the biggest kid, but he’s really tough.”
lead. However, Osseo used their last time-out, as if to say, Hey, we can still win this one. Centennial’s response was, Oh, really? Diggins had McNamara throw long to Finn and it went for a touchdown.
“They called that time-out,” shrugged Diggins.
VOLLEYBALL
Centennial defeated Andover 25-22, 25-11, 25-11 there Thursday, led by Elena Hoecke with 10 kills (hitting .562), 10 digs, two aces and two blocks. Addison Kemper and Emma Peterson swatted nine kills each, and Peterson made 12 digs. Aubrie Wirkkala, playing libero for the first time, made 14 digs. The Cougars are 8-7 overall and 3-1 in the NWSC. Andover is 6-13.
GIRLS SOCCER
The Cougars extended their unbeaten streak to six (5-0-1) by edging Blaine 1-0 at home Tuesday, but were stopped by unbeaten Spring Lake Park 1-0 on Thursday. Kaitlyn Frank, junior defender, got her first varsity goal, with an assist from Nora Helvig, to beat Blaine (3-9-1). Mia Sutch made five saves as the Cougars notched their fourth shutout with 61 percent ball possession. Spring Lake Park is 10-0-3 after nipping the Cougars with Brianna Finnegan scoring while Brooke Goerish made 14 saves. In the NWSC, Maple Grove is 8-0, SLP 7-0 and the Cougars 6-2-1 for the top three spots.
GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY
Centennial won the Osseo Invitational by a wide margin Thursday, led by individual winner Kylie Nelson. Top three teams among 12 were the Cougars with 55 points, Maple Grove 135 and Providence Academy 152, at Elk Creek Preserve
Kranz kept on chucking and got his team to the three-yard line with a long toss to Kalen Blanchette, but the Cougars stopped them there on four downs as time ran out. “Nice goal-line stand at the end,” Diggins said.
SWIMMING
in Maple Grove. Nelson won in 19:25, with the runner-up 43 seconds behind. Emma Delf placed fifth (20:46), Annelise Offerdahl seventh (20:54), Anna Swanson 12th (21:13), Josie Steinhoff 30th (22:12), Brooke Hayes 32nd (22:15) and Audrey Judson 35th (22:26) among 99 runners.
BOYS CROSS COUNTRY
Centennial placed sixth of 17 teams in the Osseo Invitational on Thursday at Elm Creek Preserve. Osseo was team champion with Quinlan Rundquist first individually in 16:37. Centennial’s top five were Alex Persing in 10th place (17:00), Kyler Nelson 23rd (17:33), Evan Lautenschlager 47th (18:29), Connor Looks 53rd (18:43) and Andrew Parent 80th (19:24) among 129 runners.
Centennial picked up its first win 96-85 over Osseo on Thursday. Placing first were Sophia Nguyen (50 free, 26.29, and 500 free, 5:39.48), Claire Zebell (backstroke, 1:10.06), Kate Woelfel (diving, 263.20), the medley relay with Nguyen, Lydia Hydukovich, Zebell and Lucy Foster (2:00.49), and the 400 free relay with Nguyen, Madeline Uelmen, Foster and Zebell (4:00.63). Placing second were Hydukovich (200 free, breaststroke), Zebell (medley), Savannah Knipping (butterfly), Foster (100 free, backstroke), and Nadia Schuhbauer (500 free). The Cougars placed 10th of 13 teams at U of M’s Maroon and Gold meet Saturday. Woelfel was second in diving with 417.70 against a strong field. Hydokovich placed 15th in breaststroke.
Bruce Strand
JON NAMYST | CONTRIBUTED
Linemen including Henrik Hiltner (54) and Sam Ward (53) fired out as Isaac Belinske-Strauss handed off to Caleb Melser.
JON NAMYST | CONTRIBUTED
Nora Lieser (3) fielded an Andover serve while Emma Peterson looked on.
BRUCE STRAND | CONTRIBUTED
Lauren Klein heads the Cougar lineup.
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text read, “On a completely unrelated topic, Bills (Gun Shop) is having a sale.”
The plaintiffs are requesting a jury trial and ultimately want to see that the moratorium is not enforced.
“My clients very much would like to see this development come to fruition,” Austin said. “It is something that is needed, it is something that would be a positive for the city and the community at large. I think all we really want as an outcome is to be treated just as any other developer in a similar circumstance would be.”
Lino Lakes Human Resources and Communications Manager Meg Sawyer said, “The matter has been referred to legal counsel and the city has no comment at this time.”
Lino Lakes adopts preliminary levy
The City Council has adopted its preliminary levy of $16,006,535, which represents a $1,885,607, or 13.35%, increase over the 2024 levy.
Finance Director Hannah Lynch said since the net tax capacity will only increase by 1.74%, the tax rate is anticipated to increase to 40.133 from 36.098.
“The preliminary levy maintains essential services and programs while the city continues to experience rising costs in the current inflationary environment,” Lynch explained.
Mayor Rob Rafferty said the city has begun the process of labor negotiations, which could impact the budget.
The preliminary levy represents the city’s maximum levy for 2025. The final levy may be decreased by the council but cannot be raised when it is adopted in December. The truth in taxation public hearing is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 9.
Lino Lakes moves ahead with 2025 street, utility projects
City staff will begin preparing plans and specifications for the 2025 street reconstruction and sewer and water extension project. The 2025 project includes the Colonial Woods neighbor-
hood, including 62nd Street and Red Maple Lane as well as the Pine Haven neighborhood, including 81st Street, Elbe Street and Danube Street. Diane Street and Evergreen Trail are also included as overlay projects.
Per the City’s Charter, the 60-day petition period passed, and the city did not receive a valid petition against the project in either neighborhood, according to City Engineer Diane Hankee.
In the Colonial Woods neighborhood, the city received a petition in favor of the project that was signed by 16 of the 29 property owners. Also, in the Colonial Woods neighborhood the city received a nonvalid petition against the project that was signed by 10 of the 29 properties. (In order for a petition to be valid, at least 51% of the property owners proposed to be assessed for the project have to sign the petition.)
In the Pine Haven neighborhood, the city received a petition in favor of the project that was signed by 19 of the 30 property owners. Also, in the Pine Haven neighborhood the city received a nonvalid petition against the project that was signed by seven property owners of the 30 properties.
The council is expected to approve plans and specifications in December and award construction contracts in March. Construction will then begin in April or May with final completion in
November 2025. The total project cost for both projects is $7,687,402.
WSB to assist with right of way acquisition
LINO LAKES — WSB will assist the city of Lino Lakes with the acquisition of right of way for the Otter Lake Road extension project. The contract is not to exceed $71,600.
Community Development Director Michael Grochala explained that design work has been ongoing, and the final alignment and construction limits have been determined.
An open house for the project will be held in November, and construction is being considered for fall 2025 or early 2026.
The project will require acquisition of permanent right of way, utility and drainage easements as well as temporary construction easements. Approximately eight parcels are affected by the project, according to Grochala. The proposed services include property owner meetings, title work, preparation of appraisals, review appraisals, preparation of offers and negotiations.
Shannon Granholm
Jackie is a sweet and playful pup who is waiting for a second chance. Through no fault of her own, only because she is a puppy and required extra attention that her previous adopters were unable to properly provide, Jackie was gracefully returned and is available for adoption.
Jackie is a sweet girl who is still learning to trust. She is a little shy at first, but once she gets to know you, you will have a fur partner for life. Jackie is a Labrador retriever/ Rhodesian ridgeback mix, and she weighs about 44 pounds. She is just over a year old and is house-trained and kennel-trained. She is social with other dogs and good with people.
Jackie knows her basic commands and would do well in a formal training program. She would also do well in a home with another dog. Jackie likes to go on walks, and she likes to play with her toys.
If you are interested in learning more about Jackie or adopting her, fill out an application at www.ruffstartrescue.org.
Circle Pines proposes tax rate increase as home
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
CIRCLE PINES — A homeowner in Circle Pines whose home value remained at $250,000 from last year to this year will see a $8.43 increase per month in city property taxes. However, if a homeowner’s $250,000 home value decreased by the median change (5.8%) to $235,000, they will see an increase of $2.22 a month on city property taxes.
“It is a balanced budget,” City Finance Director Kate Manson said. “We have the same amount of revenues as expenditures.”
Due to an decrease in citywide market value, the city’s tax rate will increase. The tax rate will be 47.103 in 2025 compared to 42.805 in 2024. The tax rate is a ratio of the city’s property tax levy divided by its taxable net tax capacity.
“When market values were rising we were able to lower that tax rate, but now that market value has dropped we have had to increase it to meet our needs,” Manson said.
The city is proposing a balanced budget
for 2025, meaning its total revenues ($3,662,808) will equal its total expenditures. Expenditures are set to increase by 2.4%. Capital projects and equipment, salary and benefits and the city’s 75th anniversary are all responsible for that increase. Manson added that another factor is health insurance premiums, which are up 8.8% from 2024.
Two other significant changes are the loss of local government aid (LGA) and not having the one-time public safety dollars ($194,796) granted by the Legislature in last year’s budget. The city of Circle Pines will see a 4.4% decrease in LGA amounting to $20,377.
The preliminary 2025 tax levy has been set at $3,233,670, which represents a 6% increase from 2024 ($3,049,945). “The levy is the amount we are drawing in from tax revenue,” Manson explained. The council may decide to decrease the levy before the end of the year, but it cannot increase it.
Cost for police services from the Centennial Lakes Police Department will increase by $2,924. “The budget formula is working in our favor, as our partner cities saw much larger increases than us due to
higher gains in taxable market value (in their cities). The budget is increasing by 3.7%, mainly driven by personnel costs,” Manson said.
Cost for fire services from the Centennial Fire District will decrease by 1.7%, mainly due to the removal of the one-time public safety dollars. Circle Pines’ share of the formula will decrease by $7,191.
The city’s truth in taxation public hearing has been set for 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 10. Following the hearing, the city will finalize its levy and budget for 2025.
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or quadnews@presspubs.com.
Expenditures are set to increase by 2.4%. Capital projects and equipment, salary and benefits and the city’s 75th anniversary are all responsible for that increase.
