Quad Community Press by Press Publications

Council offers input on concept plans

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

LINO LAKES — Now that the council has weighed in, two developers may choose to move forward with proposed developments.

Wilkinson Waters Wilkinson Waters LLC is proposing a development located on North Oaks Farm Inc. property. The parcels are located south of County Road J/ Ash Street/ CSAH 32, west of Centerville Road/ CSAH 21 and north of Wilkinson Lake Boulevard.

The development contains four parcels totaling approximately 76 gross acres and comprises a mix of residential housing types and commercial development.

North Oaks Company LLC submitted a Planned Unit Development (PUD) concept plan for review in September 2015. The concept plan included two parcels totaling 46 gross acres and consisted of a residential mix of single-family homes, twin homes and senior housing rentals totaling 136 to 161 housing units. According to City Planner Katie Larsen, the proposed development did not meet density requirements and did not move forward.

This time around, the proposed land uses

Scarecrow Crawl

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

A search is underway for the city’s next interim administrator.

City Administrator Sarah Cotton has submitted her resignation. Her last day with the city of Lino Lakes will be Friday, Nov. 15. She has accepted the city administrator position in Andover.

“One city’s loss is another city’s gain,” said Mayor Rob Rafferty.

Cotton served as the city’s finance director for almost five years before being selected as the city administrator after former City Administrator Jeff Karlson retired in 2020.

“It is extremely important that we try to address as much as we can in short order if there is any

didates. She said because she was concerned about the city staff’s current workload and no one staff member had expressed interest in the temporary position, she recommended the council look outside of the city.

Cotton said that typically, retirees can serve in that role or an administrator who is “in a transition” and not currently working for a city.

One name that has come up that the City Council is interested in talking to is Dave Pecchia, the city’s former police chief of nearly 17 years (1993 to 2010).

Cotton suggested she could reach out to the League of Minnesota Cities for a list of retired city administrators who are available for temporary positions.

“It is really important that we get moving on this thing. We don’t have a lot of time.”

Rob Rafferty Lino Lakes Mayor

possibility of trying to get someone with experience in here to work side by side with Sarah,” Rafferty explained.

Cotton responded, “Typically, when councils find themselves in this situation you want to move rather quickly to identify who that person might be and get them in that role so when I depart, they can take over.”

She explained the council has two options — it can choose to appoint someone internally (i.e. a finance director, community development director), or it can seek external can-

Council Member Dale Stoesz said he didn’t think the city has time to consider a large pool of candidates and suggested simplifying the interim administrator search as much as possible. He also asked about whether the city could consider a candidate who didn’t have city administrator experience.

“Given some of the issues that are before the city right now, you for sure probably want someone with some city administrator experience,” Cotton said. “Certainly

SHANNON GRANHOLM | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Minnesota ‘Driving While Impaired Dashboard’ available to public

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) has launched a new version of its map-driven tool for learning about crashes and arrests related to impaired

driving. The tool is now available to the public for the first time.

The Driving While Impaired (DWI) Dashboard allows user to search for information statewide, or in their own community. Results can be filtered by age, alcohol concentration, incident day,

time and more. Search results can be downloaded in Excel and other formats.

The BCA first created the DWI Dashboard in 2016 to help law enforcement identify trends in crashes and arrests related to impaired driving that could help them plan prevention and response

efforts. The tool law enforcement uses are the same tool that is now available to the public. The DWI Dashboard is available on the BCA website (dps.mn.gov) under Statistics/Reports.

PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES

would address Cannabis (regulations, sales, licensing, etc.)

CENTENNIAL

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 12

PUBLIC NOTICE

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP)

CENTENNIAL INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 12 PUBLIC NOTICE REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP)

SURVEILLANCE CAMERA PROJECT

Notice is hereby given that sealed proposals will be received by Centennial Independent School District 12 located at 4707 North Road, Circle Pines, MN 55014 until 1:00 PM CST, Thursday, November 14, 2024 for the Surveillance Cameras Project. Proposals received after the time stated will not be considered. Proposals will be opened publicly, and receipt acknowledged. Request for proposal documents are available by emailing proposals@ isd12.org with the subject line “Request for Proposal - Surveillance Camera Project.”

The following project dates are established:

• October 29, 2024 Request for proposal release date.

The following project dates are established:

• November 6, 2024 Site walk through with vendors.

• October 29, 2024 Request for proposal release date.

• November 6, 2024 Vendor questions recieved by district.

• November 6, 2024 Site walk through with vendors.

• November 8, 2024 District response to vendor questions.

• November 6, 2024 Vendor questions recieved by district.

• November 14, 2024 Submit sealed proposals by 1pm. No exception.

• November 8, 2024 District response to vendor questions.

• November 18, 2024 Formal review/award by School Board.

• November 14, 2024 Submit sealed proposals by 1pm. No exception.

• November 18, 2024 Formal review/award by School Board.

• May 31, 2025 Project work completion date. Published on the district’s website from October 29, 2024 to November 14, 2024. Published two times in the Quad Community Press on October 29 and November 5, 2024.

CENTENNIAL

laws. The revised policies will be brought to the Board for a second reading/ adoption at the September 23 board meeting. 9. CEA MOU on the READ Act Executive Director Melde gave an update on the MOU which the Board will be asked to approve at the September 23 board meeting. 10. Adjourn at 6:43 p.m.

Craig Johnson, School Board Clerk Minutes prepared by Jody Josephson Published one time in the Quad Community Press on October 29, 2024.

CENTENNIAL

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 12 SCHOOL BOARD MEETING SUMMARY

SEPTEMBER 23, 2024

would address Cannabis (regulations, sales, licensing, etc.)

City Hall is ADA accessible. Request for hearing assisted devices or a sign language interpreter must be received before 4 p.m., October 31, 2024. All persons interested are invited to attend and to be heard or may submit in writing their concerns. You may contact the City Clerks 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 October 29, 2024.

CITY OF CENTERVILLE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

CITY OF CENTERVILLE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 12

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 12 SCHOOL BOARD WORK STUDY SESSION SUMMARY SEPTEMBER 9, 2024

SCHOOL BOARD WORK STUDY SESSION SUMMARY

SEPTEMBER 9, 2024

1. Call to Order Chair Knisely called the Work Study Session to order at 5:30 p.m. in the District Office Board Room. 2. Roll Call The following members were present: ex-officio Holmberg, Knisely, Schwinn, Murphy, Linser, Johnson. Member Bettinger arrived at 5:36 p.m. The following members were absent: None. 3. Appraisal Results Possible Land Acquisition The owner/estate of a property located at 1687 Westview St in Centerville expressed interest in selling the property to the school district. At the July 1, 2024 Work Study Session Executive Director Chaffey provided an overview of the property. The district has obtained an appraisal report for the property. Next steps in the process would be to discuss rezoning of the property with the City of Centerville and have the purchase agreement prepared by our district attorney. Final step is to obtain Board approval to finalize the purchase of the property 4. Crisis Management Update Principal Stevens, Director Bergert, and Health Services Coordinator Gruber-Kellerhuis gave an update on School Safety – District Crisis Prevention, Loss and Response Planning. The presentation is included in board packets. 5. Proposed 2024 Payable 2025 Levy State statutes require that school districts certify proposed property taxes payable in 2024 by September 30, 2024. The Board will be asked to approve the proposed 2024 payable 2025 property tax levy at the maximum to allow for the necessary updates at the September 23 board meeting. The Truth in Taxation Hearing is scheduled for December 2 at 6:30 p.m. 6. Landscaping Project Charge & Overview The Settlement Agreement is included in board packets. The Board will be asked to approve payment at the September 23 board meeting. 7. Summer 2025 Project Overview Executive Director Chaffey gave an update on forthcoming capital projects for the 2024-2025 school year and into next summer. 8. Review of 2024 Legislative Session Policy Updates The board reviewed eighteen policies which have been revised to reflect changes in state

(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; September 23, 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, ex-officio Holmberg, Linser, Murphy, Schwinn, Bettinger, Johnson. The following members were absent: None. 4. Approval of the Agenda Motion to approve the agenda by Murphy, seconded by Johnson. Vote: 6-0-0. Motion carried unanimously. 5. Recognitions Minnesota School Board Recognition Month 6. Public Comment None. 7. Consent Items 7.1. Approval of Minutes. 7.2. Approval of Monthly Disbursements. 7.3. Approval of Personnel Items. 7.4. Approval of Overnight Field Trips. 7.5. Landscaping Project Charge and Settlement Agreement. Motion to approve the Consent Items as detailed in the enclosures by Schwinn, seconded by Linser. Vote: 6-0-0. Motion carried unanimously. 8. Resource Management 8.1. Adoption of Acknowledgement of Contributions Resolution - Motion to Adopt the Acknowledgement of Contributions Resolution by Johnson, seconded by Murphy. Roll Call Vote – Ayes: Knisely, Linser, Murphy, Schwinn, Bettinger, Johnson. Nays: None. Motion carried unanimously. 8.2. Proposed 2024 Payable 2025 Levy - Motion to approve the Proposed 2024 Payable 2025 Levy by Bettinger, seconded by Schwinn. Vote: 6-0-0. Motion carried unanimously. 8.3. Read Act MOU - Motion to approve the Read Act MOU by Bettinger, seconded by Schwinn. Vote: 6-0-0. Motion carried unanimously. 8.4. Approval of Health Insurance Proposal - Motion to approve the Health Insurance Proposal by Johnson, seconded by Schwinn. Vote: 6-0-0. Motion carried unanimously. 8.5. Approval of 2025 Health & Dental Insurance Rates - Motion to approve the 2025 Health & Dental Insurance Rates by Murphy, seconded by Bettinger. Vote: 6-0-0. Motion carried unanimously. 9. Supplemental Items 9.1. Second Reading/Adoption of Policies with 2024 Legislative Session Updates - Motion to adopt the policies with 2024 Legislative Session updates by Johnson, seconded by Schwinn. Vote: 6-0-0. 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 Linser, seconded by Murphy. Vote: 6-0-0. Motion carried unanimously. Adjourn at 7:06 p.m. Craig Johnson, School Board Clerk Minutes prepared by Jody Josephson Published one time in the Quad Community Press on October 29, 2024.

Published one time in the Quad Community Press on October 29, 2024.

CITY OF CENTERVILLE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

CITY OF CENTERVILLE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The City of Centerville Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, at the Centerville City Hall, 1880 Main Street in the Council Chambers beginning at 6:30 p.m. or shortly thereafter to consider resident input regarding proposed language modifications to City Code, Chapter 116: Tobacco Regulations; Sales. The added language

CENTENNIAL INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT #21

DISTRICT REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES

The City of Centerville Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, 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 M-2 (Mixed Use Neighborhood District) to P1 (Public/Institutional) & corresponding Comprehensive Plan Amendment

PETITIONER/ PROPERTY OWNER: Estate of William LaLonde/w/Purchase Option: Independent School District 12 (Centennial)

PROPERTY I.D. #: R#23-31-22-22-0003, 1687

PETITIONER/ PROPERTY OWNER: Estate of William LaLonde/w/Purchase Option: Independent School District 12 (Centennial)

PROPERTY I.D. #: R#23-31-22-22-0003, 1687 Westview Street

LEGAL DESCRIPTION: LOT 4 AUDITORS SUBDIVISION NO 48 REV EX E 201 FT THEREOF

The petitioner requests that the city consider rezoning from M-2 (Mixed Use Neighborhood District) to P1 (Public/Institutional) & corresponding Comprehensive Plan Amendment, allowing for future expansion of the Centerville Elementary School facilities. City

prehensive Plan Amendment, allowing for future expansion of the Centerville Elementary School facilities. City Hall is ADA accessible. Requests for hearing assisted devices or a sign language interpreter must be received before 4:00 p.m., October 31, 2024. All persons interested are invited to attend and to be

Published one time in the Quad Community Press on October 29, 2024.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

CONTRIBUTED

ONGOING EVENTS

HUGO SENIOR CITIZENS PLAY ‘500’

When: 12:45 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 31: and the 1st, 3rd and 5th Thursday of every month

Where: Rice Lake Centre, 6900 137th Street N.

Details: Games begin at 12:45 p.m. Refreshments and coffee served. All senior citizens from the area invited. Contact: 651-592-0369 or barbconnolly1958@yahoo.com

LEXINGTON FARMERS MARKET

When: 3 to 6 p.m. Wednesdays

Where: Lexington Municipal Liquor Store front parking lot, 9271 Lake Drive

Details: Vendors selling veggies and fruit, baked goods, Maple syrup, tea and homemade gifts.

COUNTY BRIEFS

Community STEM Night

When: 6:30 to 8 p.m. Monday, Nov. 4

Where: Centerville Elementary, 1721 Westview St.

Details: Join Centerville PTA, Cub Scout Pack 432 and Scouts BSA Troop 136 for a night of STEM presentations and hands-on activities. Contact: info@cubpack432.com

Contact: Karen Gregory 612-272-3386 or kgregory244@gmail.com

LIVE TRIVIA

When: 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesdays

Where: Lino Lakes American Legion Post 566, 7731 Lake Drive

Details: General knowledge trivia. No limit on team sizes. Every player will receive a raffle ticket for a drawing to win a free drink. The top three teams will earn a gift card, and the last place team wins a “mini trophy.”

Contact: (651) 783-0055

CURRENT EVENTS

SCARECROW CRAWL

When: Oct. 24-Oct.31

Where: Rookery Activity Center, 7690 Village Drive, Lino Lakes Details: Come decorate a scarecrow

Anoka County honors Medlink volunteer drivers

Volunteers who drive for Anoka County’s Medlink Transportation Program were recently honored at a luncheon at the Kraus Hartig VFW in Spring Lake Park. Between Sept. 1, 2023, and Aug. 31, 2024, volunteer drivers racked up a total of 111,595 miles on 4,957 trips, driving passengers primarily to veterans’ medical facilities, as well as other clinics and medical facilities. Anoka County Medlink drivers contributed 6,403 hours of service. That represents more than 266 days.

“The service they provide goes beyond just rides, though –– they oftentimes learn about the people they’re transporting and forge bonds that are lasting for both driver and passenger. I can’t thank these drivers enough, and it’s truly amazing how much time and miles they dedicate to the Medlink program

CENTENNIAL SCHOOL BOARD SNIPPETS

•The boys swimming and diving team will participate in the Border Battle Jan. 4 at the Hulbert Aquatics Center/ Fargo East High School in Fargo, North Dakota.

•District staff are happy with enrollment numbers.

“The really great news is the student count is really strong for this year,” said Executive Director of Business Services Patrick Chaffey. “Since COVID, we took a dip, and this is really bringing us back and more in line … We have quite the growth this year.”

Chaffey said one of the big drivers is the student count in kindergarten. This year’s kindergarten class is 475 compared to 437 last year. He mentioned that the district is also graduating a lower class size, while bringing in more kindergarten students.

“This is year one after several years of having it look a little differently. We hope this is the first year of a trend where we can see more stable numbers,” said Superintendent Jeff Holmberg. “The last

for your chance to win a prize! Participants will make a scarecrow and place it along the path at The Rookery where members and visitors can vote on their favorite scarecrow. Scarecrows must be submitted for entry by 4 p.m. on Thursday, Oct.24. Voting begins at 4:30 p.m. on Oct. 24 and goes through Thursday, Oct. 31. Local businesses and organizations are welcome to join.

Contact: 651-982-2468

TRICK OR TREAT

When: 10 a.m. to noon Thursday, Oct. 31

Where: Lyngblomsten at Lino Lakes, 6070 Blanchard Blvd.

Details: Lyngblomsten at Lino Lakes is inviting local day cares and stay-athome parents to come trick-or-treating with their little pumpkins, princesses, ghosts and more this Halloween!

each year,” said Commissioner Mike Gamache, chair of the Anoka County Board of Commissioners.

Two drivers were specially honored for their long years of volunteer service with the Medlink Transportation Program: Laura Louis for 20 years and Dianne Pederson for 10. The top three drivers who logged the most hours, miles and trips over the past year were also recognized: Gene Hodel, 8,782 miles, 402.50 hours and 264 trips; Bill Merry, 8,706 miles, 398.25 hours and 296 trips; Don Manion, 6,037 miles, 352.25 hours and 272 trips.

Those who are interested in becoming a Medlink driver can visit anokacountymn.gov/335/Medlink or call 763-324-3255.

SEE MORE COUNTY BRIEFS, PAGE 11

several years we have spent a great deal of time on marketing and telling the Centennial story.”

•For the next five years, the district will save $11,500 each year on life insurance and long-term disability rates. Minnesota state statute requires school districts seek bids for life insurance and long-term disability every five years. Chaffey said multiple proposals were received for the life insurance and long-term disability plans, and it was determined that the district should stick with its current provider, Madison National Life, for both programs.

•The district is continuing talks with property owners of the LaLonde property in Centerville about purchasing the land. Chaffey explained that the property owner and the district both received appraisals that came back very close to each other. He explained that the potential purchase agreement is for $1.2 million. The district will have to work

through several items before a purchase agreement is finalized, like working with the city of Centerville on rezoning the property.

Chaffey said the purchase agreement could come before the board at its Nov. 18 meeting. “Hopefully late December or early January, we could have a closing and go through that process,” Chaffey said. Per the tentative purchase agreement, the deadline is Feb. 28.

•The fall dance team head coach will be added to “schedule B.” Human Resources Director Dan Melde explained that the position has been around for many years in the district but not a part of schedule B. Schedule B is a pay scale for advisers and coaches, whereas schedule A is for regular teachers.

•The district continues to adopt revised policies that were updated to reflect legislative changes. Most recently, it approved 18 policies.

•A reminder to families that there will be no school Nov. 1,

Children can fill up their candy bags with goodies provided by our residents. To participate, you must register in advance.

Contact: kolson@lyngblomsten.org

CRAFT & VENDOR FAIR

When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 2 Where: Centennial High School, 4757 North Road, Circle Pines Details: Craft & vendor fair in the high school gym. Over 50 vendors, a gym full of unique, creative, crafty, handmade and homemade goodies. Swag bags to first 30 customers who bring a nonperishable food shelf donation for local community/ Come support local small business and local community! Contact: hangouteventsrock@gmail. com

BALD EAGLE HALF MARATHON

When: 8 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 3

Where: 5767 Hugo Road., White Bear Township Details: Quiet course around Bald Eagle Lake and surrounding countryside, followed by pancake breakfast. Contact: mmraces.com

KOWALSKI’S STRIVE 10 MILER AND 5K When: Noon Sunday, Nov. 3 Where: Boatworks Commons, 4495 Lake Ave. S. Details: 10 mile course around White Bear Lake; 5K on path along lake. Proceeds support Strive scholarship program. Contact: whitebearrotary.org

CONTRIBUTED

Several volunteer drivers with Anoka County’s MedLink Transportation Program are recognized for logging the most miles, hours and trips over the past year. From left: Commissioner Julie Braastad, Commissioner Scott Schulte, Bill Merry, Commissioner Mike Gamache, Gene Hodel, Commissioner Jeff Reinert, Don Manion, Commissioner Julie Jeppson and Commissioner Mandy Meisner.

as it is scheduled as a teacher communication and grading day.

The school board will meet at 5:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 4, for a work study session in

the district office. The next regular meeting will be at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 18.

Shannon Granholm CONTRIBUTED

Enrollment for Centennial Schools is looking good according to Executive Director of Business Services Patrick Chaffey. The above charts so how enrollment for the various grade levels compares from 2024 back to 2019.

Friendship recession

The August issue of Rotary magazine draws attention to the decline in friendships due to death, moving to a new community, job transfers, and generally speaking, the reality of getting older.

It’s easy for one’s close friends to grow apart, and replacing them seems overwhelming.

It’s obvious that being part of an organization like Rotary enhances and grows friendships like many other organizations in which you can participate.

Research has shown how important friendships can be to our mental and physical health. Some suggest you may even live longer.

For Kathy and I, friends offer help on major decisions.

Sometimes they are even more helpful than family. Many times friends have helped us clarify with objectivity.

It seems like in all cultures of the world this friendship recession is growing and not improving.

The author of the Rotary article, Kate Silver, starts off the article with “You’ve got a friend.” She relates how some people have found ways to make connections.

I’m sure you’ve discovered that if you walk a dog, that’s a good way to bring up conversation with others who are walking their pets. It takes a common ground. You have to smile and talk to people.

Over the years Kathy and I have hosted over 20 foreign exhange students and adults through different programs like Rotary. Those friendships in many cases have continued and we’ve even met some of them in their home countries.

“Here to Make Friends”, a book by Hope Kelaher, suggests that everyone have an anchor institution, whether it’s a place of worship, schools, clubs, or a café.

Think about people in your social network whom you already know and like. Be sure you reach out to them with a birthday message or an invitation to dinner, and when you do that, ask them to bring a friend that you haven’t met.

Discover what you like about a new person you have met and engage them. Ask how they spend leisure time, where they vacation, what they like about certain shopping opportunities.

All this takes time and it will not necessarily be easy, but the end result is rewarding.

In the newspaper business, I have often said we have to make new friends because we lose so many through column and editorial writing.

Whether you agree or disagree, I’m always pleased to hear from you with a letter, a note, or a call.

Share your opinions, your thoughts, your ideas. We’re all different, but we bring a lot of thoughtful information to the table. The red flag

Scams today are so prevalent and it’s so easy to be caught up with them, whatever your age.

A good warning I heard recently is if someone is trying to make you frightened or threatened, the red flag should go up. It’s very likely a scam. Scammers are getting more and more clever and finding new ways to catch people off guard. There are many premium offers that look good and some are even told will be complimentary, but you can’t trust them. I think retailers and promotional people that are legitimate are losing out because of all the scamming. Remember local businesses can be trusted and are here to serve you.

Gene Johnson is publisher emeritus of Press Publications.

SThe Greatest Generation

o it is in wartime. There was a single shot and the man rolled onto his side lifeless. He’d seen his family for the last time. This actual event was related by my friend Ken Utke, a 99 year old World War II veteran. Ken shipped off to France in 1944 as an individual because the job of the unit he trained with was no longer needed. He arrived after D-Day but still endured a number of encounters with the enemy.

After a stint in the 3rd Army, Ken landed in the 7th Army. As the “new guy” he got what all the new guys got; the job nobody else wanted. In Ken’s case, this was being a scout. That meant only to observe, not engage and it came with a variety of tasks like: Utke! - run across that field and see if anyone shoots at you. Utke! - pick a couple men and go find out what the Germans are up to. That latter order was usually in the very early hours of the morning. Ken went around and kicked a few soldiers who came with him and asked no questions. If you wield authority as if you have authority, the men will follow.

• Limited to 350 words. Submissions must Include a full name, address and daytime phone number for verification.

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

Letter writers are limited to six letters per year and at

The scout team had 2 simple instructions; make no noise no matter what and hold the belt of the man in front of you. It never went as planned. Someone was always separated and every time they called out for help. Knowing high powered machine guns were looking for them, the usual response would be a coarsely whispered, “Shut up!!”, though somewhat different language was used. Despite the issues with the team, Ken did not lose a single man on those scouting missions.

Most of what you ate while deployed in WWII was something called a C-ration. C-rations came in a small brown cardboard box and contained mostly canned goods. Some of them were tolerable but none of them were good. They were packed with calories, but beyond that their effect on the body was often less than perfect.

Occasionally, the Army would set up a hot meal in the field. After C-rations, chancing by one of these meal stations was a treat. Ken wasn’t about to miss out on real food so he filled a plate along with another soldier who was there planning to enjoy the same meal. The two of them found a place to sit on a small hillside and were having a fun time chatting when there was a single shot and the man rolled onto his side lifeless. Ken knew the German

least four weeks must lapse between publication. Exceptions may be made for rebuttal letters. Due to space limitations, letters that don’t address local issues are not guaranteed publication. Repeat letters by the same writer about the same subject matter will not be published.

sniper was taking aim at him next so he dropped his plate and ran like the wind.

Human history is mostly a stream of chaos and suffering and World War II was certainly no exception. But we occasionally see willing sacrifice and genuine leadership. In 1941, the people of the United States had the choice to fight or live with hostile empires that would certainly oppress their own people and eventually set their sights on us. We chose to fight. My friend Ken, his lunch partner, scouts clinging to belts and many others suffered and sacrificed to preserve our right to vote, assemble, bear arms, speak freely, go or not go to the church of our choice and live the lives we need to live. And postwar, the US led with compassion by introducing the Marshall Plan which sought to build a free and prosperous Europe in the hopes of preventing a third world war. We are now 79 years on and it’s peaceful and prosperous to this day. The generation of these soldiers has been nicknamed the Greatest Generation; a moniker they most assuredly deserve.

Paul Lundh is a longtime resident of Centerville and a periodic columnist for The Citizen.

• Submissions containing libelous or derogatory statements will not be published. Submissions containing facts not previously published in the Press must be accompanied by factual verification. All letters are subject to editing.

Deadline is 5 p.m. Wednesday of the week prior to publication. To submit a letter, e-mail it to quadnews@presspubs.com, fax it to 651-429-1242 or mail or deliver it to: Press Publications, 4779 Bloom Ave., White Bear Lake, MN 55110.

The Corner

Paul Lundh

About the Town Gene Johnson

CONCEPT PLANS: Developers look for flexibility from city of Lino Lakes

ly 33,000 square feet of commercial retail space; two, three-story 100-unit market-rate multifamily buildings; 34 rental townhome units; 22 for-sale townhome units; and one four-story, 100-unit senior living facility. The concept plan shows three commercial building pads ranging from 9,100 to 10,850 square feet each.

Under a PUD, the developer is granted some flexibility but in return must provide some public benefit. Wilkinson Waters is requesting flexibility when it comes to building height for both the senior building and two apartment buildings. Buildings within the shoreland district have a maximum permitted height of 36 feet. The developer is also seeking flexibility to offer 550-squarefoot studio apartments, whereas a minimum of 700 square feet would typically be required.

In return, Wilkinson Waters plans to offer more open space, a strong greenway/trail corridor, a variety of lot sizes and home types, preservation of wetlands, lifecycle housing and a commercial component. Larsen said that 78% of the development is proposed to be open space.

“We are prepared to move forward with this immediately. Is the council generally supportive of this concept?” asked Mark Houge, president of North Oaks Company. “We would like to start working on our plans to submit for the preliminary plan.”

Council Member Christopher Lyden said he liked the proposed location of the apartments and didn’t think it would be ideal to relocate them closer to the roadway, as suggested by some members of the Planning Commission. “Those apartments are going to be looking out on the most beautiful area of Lino Lakes. The sunsets they are going to get … That view is going to be tremendous,” he said. Lyden inquired about what the commercial piece would look like.

Houge explained that it would be a similar concept to the area by the Tavern Grill in Woodbury. “They will be four-sided retail buildings. They will look more like professional office buildings,” he said.

Initially, Council Member Dale Stoesz said he would like to see the city not allow flexibility when it comes to the height of the buildings, but after finding out that Presbyterian Homes would be the buyer (same as Waverly Gardens), he said he didn’t have an issue with the height, as it would allow for more interesting architecture.

“It has always been their (Presbyterian Homes’) vision to be an extension of their campus, and they wanted to have a space in Lino Lakes for this family campus,” Houge said. He added that they plan to work with a separate party (same developer as Aster Meadow in Vadnais Heights) for the market-rate housing and a third developer (not yet named) for the commercial retail on the site.

CONTRIBUTED

A rendering of the apartments proposed in Wilkinson Waters.

Council Member Tony Cavegn said he was okay with the studio apartments, as it would help the city to achieve several of its goals when it comes to affordability and life-cycle housing. “I think this provides us with some entry-level housing that we don’t have currently,” Cavegn explained. “I have two kids who recently graduated, and they can’t afford anything.”

Council Member Michael Ruhland said he was okay with the proposed height of the buildings but said he would have to think more about his thoughts on offering studio apartments. “I’m not a huge fan of that but I also understand the need for that …” he said.

Before submitting a preliminary plat, the developer will need to go through an environmental assessment worksheet (EAW). Larsen said that process could take three to four weeks.

Natures Refuge North

The development comprises two parcels totaling approximately 60 gross acres and is located north of Natures Refuge, close to the Arena Acres neighborhood. M/I Homes of Minneapolis/St. Paul LLC submitted a land use application for a planned unit development (PUD) concept plan in October 2023. M/I Homes has now submitted a revised concept plan that shows constructing 92 housing units compared to the initial 108. In the new plan, M/I Homes is proposing all single-level villas. Another change is the increased buffer between the proposed development and the existing Arena Acres neighborhood.

“The open space has increased, the trees (proposed to be) removed decreased and the overall density has decreased,” Larsen explained.

One area the developer is asking for flexibility is garage size. The concept plan proposes 400 square feet, whereas 520 square feet is typically required. Larsen told the council to keep in mind that the proposed development was a conservation development. “This would not be the site we would want to put in large, wide lots on

when we are attempting to preserve the number of trees and wetlands that are out there,” she said.

Mayor Rob Rafferty said one of the things he wasn’t willing to budge on was the minimum garage size. “(The council) put a lot of time and money into studies of the garage. That garage at 400 square feet is very small. I would not be in favor at all. I like where we are at.”

Council Member Dale Stoesz said he agreed. “Nobody ever complains later that they don’t like the size of their garage if they have it,” he said.

Ruhland and Cavegn also said they didn’t want to see that small of a garage. “If you bump up the garage size, in general, I think people would be more supportive of this project,” Cavegn said. “Garage size is something the council took a ton of time on.”

Several of the council members did say they appreciated the developer’s efforts to create larger buffers between the existing single-family homes in the area. Lyden commented that the style of the houses proposed is “very appealing and attractive.”

The next step for Natures Refuge North will be for the developers to submit a PUD preliminary plat.

Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or quadnews@presspubs.com.

Week of Oct. 20 – 26, 2024 Editor’s note: Visit www.presspubs.com to read the full versions of these most-visited stories

1. Mahtomedi soccer celebration turns to heartbreak. White Bear Press > News

2. Here we go again. The Citizen > Opinion

3. White Bear Lake Chef named ‘Top Chef of the Valley.’ White Bear Press > Briefs

4. Shoreview approves new city code. Shoreview Press > News

5. City of Lexington grapples with settlement fallout. Quad Community Press > News

See Press Publications’ website www.presspubs.com for stories from the White Bear Press, The Citizen, Vadnais Heights Press, Shoreview Press, Quad Community Press, The Lowdown-Forest Lake Area and The Lowdown-St. Croix Valley Area.

PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES

CITY OF CENTERVILLE, MINNESOTA PUBLIC NOTICE OF ELECTION

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a General Election will be held in the City of Centerville, Minnesota, on Tuesday, November 5, 2024 at the polling locations listed below for the purpose of voting for candidates of the offices specified below. The polls for said election will be open at 7:00 AM and will remain open until closing at 8:00 PM.

The City of Centerville’s polling location, voting hours are as follows: St. Genevieve’s Community Parish Center 6995 Centerville Road, Centerville, MN 55038

HOURS: 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.

MUNICIPAL OFFICES

• Mayor

• City Council Member at Large, 2 seats

• City Council Member at Large, 1 seat (special election, term ending in 2026)

Centerville’s polling location: Church of St. Genevieve Parish Community Center, 6995 Centerville Road, Centerville, MN 55038

Voting hours: 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Precinct Name Voting Location Centerville P-1 St. Genevieve Community Parish Center, 6995 Centerville Road, Centerville, MN 55038 Teresa Bender, City Clerk Published two times in the Quad Community Press on October 22 and 29, 2024.

CITY OF LINO LAKES

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Lino Lakes, Minnesota will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, November 12, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Lino Lakes City Hall, 600 Town Center Parkway, Lino Lakes, Minnesota, to consider the following:

• Street Vacation - Vacation of the portion of 77th Street lying between Marilyn Drive and Lake Drive

For further information regarding the above item, please contact City Engineer, Diane Hankee, at 651-982-2430.

Anyone wishing to be heard regarding these items will be given the opportunity at the time of the hearing. If you have any questions or need special accommodations, please call 651-982-2400.

Roberta Colotti, CMC, City Clerk

Published two times in the Quad Community Press on October 29 and November 5, 2024.

CITY OF LINO LAKES

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Lino Lakes, Minnesota will hold a public hearing on November 12, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Lino Lakes City Hall, 600 Town Center Parkway, Lino Lakes, Minnesota, to consider the following:

• Drainage and Utility Easement Vacation

- 1057 Black Duck Court

- PID #28-31-22-13-0137

For further information regarding the above item, please contact City Engineer, Diane Hankee, at 651-982-2430.

Anyone wishing to be heard regarding these items will be given the opportunity at the time of the hearing. If you have any questions or need special accommodations, please call 651-982-2400.

Roberta Colotti, CMC, City Clerk

Published two times in the Quad Community Press on October 29 and November 5, 2024.

CITY OF LINO LAKES

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning & Zoning Board of the City of Lino Lakes, Minnesota will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, November 13, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Lino Lakes City Hall, 600 Town Center Parkway, Lino Lakes, Minnesota, to consider the following:

• Comprehensive Plan Amendment - Location: Colonial Woods Residential Subdivision

• (Red Maple Lane, North of 62nd Street)

- Change land use designation from Urban Reserve to Low Density Residential - Change utility staging plan from Stage 3 (Post 2040) to Stage 1A (2018-2025)

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

Anyone wishing to be heard regarding these items will be given the opportunity at the time of the hearing. If you have any questions or need special accommodations, please call 651-982-2400.

Roberta Colotti, CMC, City Clerk

Published one time in the Quad Community Press on October 29, 2024. STATE OF MINNESOTA, ANOKA COUNTY DISTRICT COURT, TENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT

IN PROCEEDINGS SUBSEQUENT TO INITIAL REGISTRATION OF LAND

SUPPLEMENTAL ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE

DISTRICT COURT FILE NO. 02-CV-23-6553

In the Matter of the Petition of Kenneth J. Brown and Patricia J. Brown, in Relation to Certificate of Title No 70867 issued for land in the County of Anoka and State of Minnesota and legally described as follows: Lot 26, except the South 4/5ths, Lot 27 and the South I/5th of Lot 28, Block 10, ROSLYN PARK.

TO: Security Pacific National Bank, Trustee

This Court will hold a hearing on Thursday, the 21st day of November, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. This hearing will NOT be held in person. The hearing will be held remotely via WebEx and appearances shall be by video unless otherwise directed. Due to Minnesota Supreme Court Order ADM20-8001 (Minn. filed April 19, 2022), this Court will rule on the Petition in this case after administrative review of submissions and remote hearing. YOU ARE ORDERED to show cause, if there is any, why this Court should

not enter an Order as follows: That the registrar of titles, upon the filing of a certified copy of this order, cancel Certificate of Title No. 70867 and enter a new certificate of title for Lot 26, except the South 4/5th, Lot 27 and the South I/5th of Lot 28, Block 10, ROSLYN PARK, in favor of Kenneth J. Brown and Patricia J. Brown, as joint tenants, whose address is 5045 5th Street NE, Columbia Heights, MN 55421 subject to the existing recital, but free from all other memorials appearing on the present certificate through the memorial of Document No. 613291.001, and also free from the memorial of this order Attendance is only required by those who wish to object to the entry of the above described Order. If no objection is filed, the Petition may be granted without further notice.

If you wish to object to the entry of the Order set forth above, you must:

• Contact Tracy Ekberg via email at tracy.ekberg@co.anoka.mn.us at least three days prior to the hearing date. If you wish to attend the remote hearing, the Court will email you the WebEx link at least one business day before the hearing. The Minnesota Judicial Branch uses strict security controls for all remote technology when conaucting remote hearings. For more information on remote hearings, visit https://mncourts.gov/remote-hearings or call (763) 760-6700;

• Your email requesting access to the remote hearing MUST include (I) your name, (2) mailing address, (3) email address, (4) telephone number AND, (5) the court file number;

• If an objection is filed, the matter will be a contested case and assigned to a judge.

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED, that this Order to Show Cause be served: (a) at least 10 days before the hearing upon the above-named parties residing in this State in the manner provided by law for the service of Summons in a civil action; (b) at least 14 days before the hearing upon each of the abovenamed nonresidents by sending a copy of this Order to the nonresident’s post office address, by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested; (c) upon each of the above named parties who cannot be found by two weeks published notice and by sending a copy of this Order at least 14 days before the hearing by first class mail to the last known address of the party and by sending another copy of this Order at least 14 days before the hearing by first class mail to the address of such party as stated on the Certificate of Title if an address is so stated; (d) upon a dissolved, withdrawn, or revoked business entity governed by Minn. Stat., Chp. 302A, 303, 317A, 322A, 322B, or 323 in the manner provided by Minn. Stat. § 5.25. [Note: return date on the Order ro Show Cause must be at least 30 days after date of mailing by the Secretary of State) Jenny Walker Jasper, Judge of the District Court

The foregoing is approved as to form. By: Dulcie M. Brand, Examiner of Titles Attorney for Petitioner Joel M. Holstad, #0402970 20660 Holstad Trail Forest Lake, MN 55025 Phone No. 651-274-8989. Published two times in the Quad Community Press on October 29 and November 5, 2024.

COPS&COURTS

POLICE REPORTS

The Lino Lakes Police Department reports the following incidents:

•Officers received a complaint of a possible impaired driver in the 7500 block of Lake Drive Oct. 15. The vehicle was located and stopped. The driver showed signs of impairment and was arrested for third-degree DWI and later booked into jail.

•Officers received a complaint of loose dogs in the 6600 block of Hickory Place Oct. 15. The owner contained the dogs and was made aware of related ordinances.

•An officer responded to a call of a disorderly juvenile in the 300 block of Elm Street Oct. 15. The juvenile left and was no longer causing problems.

•Extra patrol was requested in the 800 block of Old Birch Street Oct. 15.

•Officers responded to assist a neighboring agency with a motorcycle personal injury accident in the 1900 block of Center Street Oct. 15. Officers assisted the agency until enough emergency personnel were on scene.

•Officers responded to a suspicious activity call to a residence under construction in the 500 block of Arlo Lan Oct. 15. The officers checked the building and around the area, but did not find any problems.

•An officer responded to a solicitor complaint in the 2000 block of Chestnut Street Oct. 16. The officer contacted the solicitor and informed them of the city’s permit process.

•An officer responded Oct. 16 to a report that an unknown male entered an apartment complex in the 700 block of Town Center Parkway because the front door had been broken for several months. The incident was documented at the caller’s request.

•Officers responded to a report of a residential fire alarm sounding with smoke seen inside the home in the 100 block of Morgan Lane Oct. 17. Officers arrived and determined the smoke was caused by a candle the homeowner forgot was burning.

•An officer was dispatched to the 7200 block of Lea Court regarding suspicious activity Oct. 17. Officers

Cold Case Homicide Unit launches webpage

recovered a stolen vehicle and the investigation is ongoing.

•Officers responded to a single-vehicle personal injury crash near the intersection of Birch Street and Totem Trail Oct. 17. The driver and lone occupant were transported to a hospital for a possible neck and head injury.

•An officer responded to a report of juveniles playing in a street and possibly damaging property in the 100 block of Morgan Lane Oct. 18. The juveniles were spoken to, and their parent was advised.

•An officer responded to an injured animal near Main Street and Fourth Avenue Oct. 18. The animal was dispatched and removed.

•An officer stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation at the intersection of Centerville Road and Ash Street Oct. 19. The driver was arrested for DWI, issued a citation and released to a sober party.

•An officer responded to a report of an illegal burn on Lilac Street Oct. 19. The owner was advised of city ordinances.

•Extra patrol was requested in the 300 block of Sioux Court Oct. 19 due to recent thefts.

•An officer stopped a vehicle for illegal driving conduct in the 700 block of Birch Street Oct. 19. The adult male driver was ultimately arrested and charged with fourth-degree DWI.

•An officer was dispatched to a report of a tree leaning on a powerline around Lake Drive and Evergreen Trail Oct. 20. The power company was advised of the information.

•An officer responded to a delayed report of property damage in the 8000 block of 20th Avenue Oct. 20. The incident was documented and there are no suspects.

•An officer was dispatched to the 6200 block of Hollow Lane regarding a delayed traffic complaint Oct. 20. The officer advised the driver of the complaint and informed them to follow traffic laws.

•An officer responded to the 8000 block of Hazelwood Court regarding a neighbor dispute Oct. 20. Both neigh-

The Anoka County Sheriff’s Office is launching a new webpage that highlights some of the unsolved cold case homicides being reevaluated by the office’s Cold Case Homicide Unit, thanks to a grant from the United States Department of Justice. This new webpage aims to encourage those who may have information about these crimes to come forward with what they know.

The Anoka County Sheriff's Office Cold Case Homicide Unit is dedicated to seeking closure and justice for victims and their families. A dedicated team made up of law enforcement and forensic science professionals continue investigating unsolved homicides using updated technology, information and resources.

The ultimate goal is to hold offenders accountable and bring closure to victims’ families, while providing support throughout the process. If you, or someone you know, has knowledge to share about this crime, we encourage you to submit your tip to ACSOColdCases@anokacountymn.gov.

The new webpage is www.anokacountymn. gov/4501/Cold-Case-Homicide-Unit .

Cold case homicides:

Script B. Henderson

Barbara Boyles

Judy J. Bever

Gail Smith

Roger Ralph Weibye

Jeanine Gay Warden

Dennis Lynn Clanton Rachel

Barbara

bors were spoken to and agreed to leave the other alone.

•An officer responded to a secure juvenile facility in the 7500 block of Fourth Avenue Oct 21 for a delayed report of assault reported by a staff member. The incident involved two juvenile males. One of the males is being charged with assault.

•An officer responded to a report of disorderly conduct in the 200 block of Baldwin Circle Oct. 21. The party responsible was cited for various violations.

•An officer took a phone call report regarding property damage sustained by the reporting party's vehicle when debris fell from another vehicle on I-35W near Sunset Avenue Oct. 21. The investigation is ongoing.

•An officer was requested to assist a neighboring agency with a K-9 track following a robbery on Central Street Oct. 21. The suspect was not located.

•Officers responded to a report of a personal injury accident in the 8300 block of Lake Drive Oct. 21 wherein a vehicle involved left the scene. The driver of the vehicle was later located and arrested, and later booked into jail for various violations.

The Centennial Lakes Police Department reports the following incidents:

•Police responded to the intersection of Lexington Avenue and Edgewood Road in Lexington Oct.16 for a property damage crash.

•Police responded to the 9400 block of Lexington Avenue in Lexington Oct. 16 for a resident who was locked out of their apartment with two young children. The Lexington Fire Department also responded to the scene and assisted the resident in gaining access to their apartment.

•Police took a report regarding a theft of a bicycle in the 9000 block of Griggs Avenue in Lexington Oct. 16.

•Police took a theft report from the 1800 block of Center Street in Centerville Oct. 16.

•Officers were dispatched to a house fire in the 0 block of Ridge Road in Cir-

cle Pines Oct. 17. Fire arrived on scene and handled the call.

•Officers were dispatched to the area of Lexington Avenue NE and Edgewood Road in Lexington Oct. 17 for a crash. Officers determined there were no apparent injuries and took information for a crash report.

•Police responded to the intersection of Restwood Road and Naples Street NE in Lexington Oct. 17 for a report of an active fight.

•Officers were dispatched to the 60 block of West Golden Lake Road in Circle Pines Oct. 18 for a political sign that was stolen from a front yard.

•Offices were dispatched to the 300 block of Sherwood Court in Circle Pines Oct. 18 for a theft. Another theft was reported nearby the same day, a couple of hours later.

•Police responded to the 9200 block of North Highway Drive in Lexington Oct. 18 regarding a neighborhood dispute.

•A theft was reported in the 300 block of Forest Drive in Circle Pines Oct. 18.

•Extra patrol was requested in the 3800 block of Minuteman Lane in Lexington Oct. 19.

•Police responded to the 9200 block of South Highway Drive in Lexington Oct. 19 for a theft.

•An officer observed a traffic violation at the intersection of Lake Drive and Lexington Avenue in Lexington Oct. 20. The driver did not have a valid driver’s license and was uninsured. The vehicle was impounded.

•An arrest was made for domestic assault in Circle Pines Oct. 21.

•Officers were dispatched to the 30 block of Central Street in Circle Pines Oct. 21 for a robbery. Officers set up a perimeter search for an unknown suspect using a K-9 and drone. Officers were unable to locate the suspect. The case remains under investigation.

•A theft was reported in the 10 block of West Golden Lake Road in Circle Pines Oct. 21.

•Police responded to suspicious activity in the 3800 block of Minuteman Lane in Lexington Oct. 22.

Glenn

Dennis

Harry

Paul

Juan

Doua

Displaced pets find safety in Minnesota after Hurricane Helene

BY STACY VERDICK CASE ISANTI-CHISAGO COUNTY STAR

Local animal shelter Ruff Start Rescue is pitching in to help animals displaced after Hurricane Helene.

“We have a relationship with the Humane Society of the United States,” said Azure Davis, the Founder and Executive Director of Ruff Start Rescue. “They do a lot of disaster response and disaster relief work. So when things do happen, like hurricanes, tornadoes, whatever it might be, we reach out to them to see where the assistance is the most needed.”

Seven dogs and 17 cats arrived on Tuesday, Oct. 22 from hurricane-damaged shelters in North Carolina and Tennessee. “We don’t normally take cats from out of state just because there is a need here in Minnesota. But we do make an exception for disaster response.”

On Sept. 26, Hurricane Helene made landfall as a category four hurricane with sustained winds of 140 miles per hour. Helene dropped an estimated 40 trillion gallons of rainfall, which caused historical flooding leaving millions without power and hundreds dead or missing. Because of the unprecedented nature of the storm shelters in the southeast were caught off guard and scrambling to find shelter for the animals in their care displaced by flooding. One of the worst affected shelters was the Unicoi shelter in Tennessee. “They got hit really hard,” said Davis. “They had major flooding and had to move like 100 animals out of there.”

Other shelters in the surrounding areas of Tennessee and the Carolinas were in the same situation, so Unicoi turned to The Humane Society of the United States. “They took the dogs and put them in Baltimore in temporary housing for this last month or so. It’s a temporary housing like a big pole barn type thing with wood chip bedding.”

On Oct. 22 the animals were transported from Baltimore to Fort Bend, Indiana where volunteers from Ruff Start Rescue picked them up to transport them to their offices in Princeton. From there Ruff Start enlisted the help of foster families to take and care for these animals. Ruff Start will work to help these animals find a “fur-ever” home.

Davis expects a second round of animals from hurricane damage areas to arrive later. “We want to give them time to find their owners. So there will be a second round in probably the next couple of weeks if they still haven’t been claimed. That’s when those shelters in those states will send them to rescues and need help, probably more than ever, honestly. Because they’re still just trying to get things together and assess their needs and the damages. So these next two to three weeks, I think we’ll see the aftermath. When the media dies down, but that’s when the most help will probably be needed.”

Commitment to helping animals

In 2010 when Davis, a lifelong resident of Isanti County, was 23 she spotted a Pitbull named Hope that was emaciated and running out of time at an Ohio shelter. Davis decided to rescue Hope and so began Ruff Start Rescue.

“I always joke that the animals find me, not the other way around, and that it was just my calling. It’s just always been part of my life. Since I was a very little girl, growing up on 50 acres with stray animals showing up and trying to network them to find homes.”

Davis still finds strays roaming Isanti County, “it’s like every few months, I don’t know what’s going on. I’m loaded up in my car, driving around, and it’s like, okay, where are the owners?” These days she’s more prepared to help locate families. “I have a microchip scanner I drive around with and I try to reunite people with their dogs.”

When she speaks, Davis’ love for animals is clear. In building Ruff Start she has created a place where animals can be sheltered in caring environments. And if she can, she wants to help keep pets with their family. “We work with the community to help keep pets in homes. So if somebody needs food or they’ve fallen on hard times, we try to provide the community and especially the local food shelves with supplies and food when we have a surplus. No food goes to waste basically.”

Ruff Start Rescue has a mission to “improve animal welfare in communities through adoption, education, and providing resources for people and pets.” They are growing every year and Davis has big plans for increasing their reach in the community.

“Eventually we want to offer some discounted veterinary care to the public. We’re not quite there, but that is in our goals.”

They hope to reach those goals through fundraising efforts like their annual Give to the

The Unicoi County Animal shelter in Erwin, Tennessee was flooded when Hurricane Helene dropped from five to over nine inches of rain on East Tennessee in a 24-hour period.

Max campaign in November. “That’s our biggest fundraiser of the year. This year we’re specifically raising money to put an addition on our building here at Ruff Start to be able to help with rescue surgeries like spay and neuter, but then also more space for the community, for food, and those supplies that we get donated, because we’re just out of space. We’ve had to turn some away which kills us because we know that we can find good homes for it and there’s a need for it. So we’re adding 1200 square feet. On Give to the Max Day we’re trying to raise $225,000 that day.”

Community help for hurricane response

HIRING

Community members who are looking for a way to help with the cats and dogs coming in from Hurricane Helene are encouraged to reach out to Ruff Start with financial donations if they can. “We always need monetary donations to help with their vet coverage and transport. Especially in preparation for the next round because we drive down and meet them, and it all adds up.”

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For those who don’t have financial resources to donate consider donating your time and talents. Their website lists many jobs that they could use help with to keep things running smoothly including remote volunteer positions. “A lot of people forget about the back end operational costs, you know, or the maintenance and wear and tear on our transport vehicle. We don’t have a lot of coverage from that. So if there’s businesses or individuals that can help us

For more information visit midcountycoop.com/mechanic-job to apply contact Bill at (952) 466-3721 or billr@midcountycoop.com 710 Lake St W, Cologne, MN 55322

with those things to make these transports possible, that’s always a need and we’re always looking for more drivers, and help when the transports come in. We have a lot of volunteer opportunities, especially if people have experience with veterinary care if they’re vet techs, or if they’re good on computers. There’s a lot of opportunities where we need more volunteers.”

You can sign up to volunteer on their website at: ruffstartrescue.org/get-involved/volunteer/ All of the animals brought here from Hurricane Helen are available for adoption on their website as well.

MDAN ads to run ONE TIME, the week

Stacy Verdick Case is an editorial assistant for the Isanti-Chisago County Star, a sister publication.

A volunteer from Ruff Start Rescue helps outfit Sadie, one of the dogs rescued from historic flooding from Hurricane Helene in Tennessee, with a new harness and leash.

Ruff Start Rescue of Princeton took in 17 cats (including this kitten named Huck)and seven dogs from Unicoi County Animal Shelter after they were rescued by the Humane Society of the United States.

CIRCLE PINES CITY COUNCIL SNIPPETS

•Early voting continues to be a popular option at City Hall.

•Three Rivers Mechanical LLC and Custom Chimney Care LLC have both had their annual business licenses approved by the council.

•The city will move forward with preparing plans and specifications for the 2025 street and utility project. The project is proposed to include: Golden Lake Road, West Golden Lake Road, Village Parkway, Central Street, Cameo Lane, Golden Oak Drive, Oak Leaf Lane from Oak Ridge Trail to Woodcrest Drive, Oak Road, South Pine Drive from South Drive to Oak Leaf Lane, and South Drive from South Pine Drive to South Road.

The project also includes pavement improvements at the public works facility, fire station and Golden Lake Park parking lots. The project will include mill and overlay and partial reconstruction.

Benefited properties will be assessed for all or a portion of the cost of the improvement. The project is estimated to cost $2.6 million. A total of 387 properties are proposed to be assessed a total of $711,000 for the project.

The City Council is expected to award a construction contract for the project in January, hold public information meetings in May and start construction in June. The project will be “substantially complete”

by October.

One resident asked how the project would impact the city’s 75th anniversary event at Golden Lake Park next August. City Administrator assured the resident it would not impact the event, as the contract will ensure the work at the park is complete before the celebration, which is planned for the first weekend in August.

•The city is moving forward with a roof replacement project for its public works facility.

Antonen said the city received nine bids for the project, but the low bid had to be rejected because it was incomplete.

“That was a big red flag,” Antonen said.

The project will be awarded to Berwald Roofing Company based out of North St. Paul for $366,100.

Antonen explained the city will also go out for bids for a roof project at the fire station, but the project had to be bid separately, as the fire station project is more “specialized.”

•Kaarin Mantz is the city’s newest park board member. Her term will run through Dec. 31, 2025.

The next City Council meeting will be at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 6, due to Election Day on Tuesday, Nov. 5.

Shannon Granholm

ADMINISTRATOR: Interviews scheduled

FROM PAGE 1

with a permanent role, that is something you could consider … “

Rafferty said, “The biggest issue I have is the timeline. The timeline is not in the benefit of the council or the city to be able to try to figure out these things.”

Council Member Tony Cavegn said he would prefer the city cast “a wide net”.

“I like the idea Sarah brought up in getting someone who is in transition, because maybe that becomes our full-time person,” he said.

Council Member Michael Ruhland seemed to agree. “If we got to try this person on for size and they are doing an excellent job, that person should be considered as well for the permanent position as well,” Ruhland said. “We get to see how the vibe is with staff and how everyone is getting along and if it is a good fit or not.”

Rafferty responded, “I’m not interested in a test drive. I’m interested in getting someone in place … I want the person to have the ability to work one-on-one with Sarah.”

Cotton explained that she wouldn’t need much time with the interim city administrator and said she would remain available as a resource for them even after she is

WEEKLY WAG

Meet LouLou, a gentle,

serving in her new role with the city of Andover.

Cotton also brought up that the council should consider whether it wants a consulting firm to assist in the search or if the city should handle it internally. She explained that the 2025 city budget is estimated to have an approximately $600,000 surplus, and some of those funds could be used to aid in that search.

Ruhland said, “Consulting firms blow my mind … they can be a massive waste of money.”

Council Member Christopher Lyden agreed, and pointed out that the city of Andover hired Sarah through an internal process rather than through a search firm.

The City Council has scheduled a series of special work sessions for the purpose of conducting interviews with candidates for the interim position. Currently, meetings are scheduled at 5:30 p.m. Oct. 28, Oct. 29, Oct. 30 and Nov. 4 at City Hall. The meetings may be canceled if they are not needed.

Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or quadnews@presspubs. com.

young girl with the sweetest soul, who craves the loving attention of her people. LouLou is a 2-year-old Australian cattle dog/ blue heeler/Australian shepherd mix. She weighs about 47 pounds.

LouLou is house-trained, crate-trained and leashtrained and she has a high energy level. She would do well in a forever home with an active family. LouLou is social with other dogs and friendly to everyone she meets. Being a herding dog, she may not do well in a home with cats or small animals.

LouLou is intelligent, and she knows her basic commands. She would benefit from attending a formal training program. During her downtime, LouLou likes to snuggle and is a wonderful lap dog. LouLou arrived at Ruff Start Rescue from Texas as part of the Lone Star to North Star Program.

LouLou is anxiously awaiting a loving home and family that will help her be her best. If you are interested in learning more about LouLou or adopting her, fill out an application at www.ruffstartrescue.org.

Four Cougars qualify for state cross country

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

Four Centennial runners advanced to the state cross country meet while the Cougar girls placed third and the boys fifth in Section 7AAA on Thursday on Anoka High School’s course.

In the girls race, Cougar senior Kylie Nelson placed fourth in 18:43 while senior Miranda Sawvel also made the cut placing 14th in 19:24.

In the boys race, Cougar senior Alex Persing placed eighth in 16:42 while junior Liban Ahmed also qualified by placing 14th in 16:52.

Nelson is a two-time all-state runner, placing 13th as a junior and 21st as a sophomore. She said it’s been a “pretty good” senior year. “I got my personal best a couple weeks ago at the Elk River meet,” said Nelson. That time was 18:26.

Nelson was an all-conference gymnast but discontinued that sport after 10th grade when her running career was taking off. “I switched to Nordic skiing in the winter,” Nelson said. “I didn’t want to get hurt (in gymnastics). I want to run in college.”

Persing will make his third state trip. Midway through the race, he was back in the pack a ways, but he picked up steam. “I usually go a little easy

Mayo ousts Cougars 28-24 in first round

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

Centennial’s football season ended with a 28-24 loss to Rochester Mayo at home Friday night. Following their 2023 state championship, the Cougars finished 4-5 with a first-round exit for the first time since 2018.

In a back-and-forth game, the Spartans (3-6) got their game-winner on Isaiah Beale’s fourth touchdown, a 14-yard run with 1:29 left.

Centennial led 14-0 after one quarter on a two-yard run by Caleb Melser and a 65-yard run by Brady Haffeman. Mayo pulled even in the second quarter with Beale scoring from three and five yards.

The Cougars drove to the Mayo seven in the third quarter and got a 24-yard

field goal by Justin Driver, who was 3-for-3 on extra points.

In the fourth, Beale broke loose for a 58-yard run, giving Mayo a 21-17 lead with 8:23 left. The Cougars regained the lead 24-21 on quarterback Isaac Belinske-Strauss’s three-yard run. Beale’s decisive 14-yard touchdown gave him a final total of 171 yards in 21 carries. Calder Sheehan added 85 in 12 carries. Mayo had two passers with Sheehan going 3-for-6 for 67 yards and Isaac Peterson 5-for-8 for 67 yards.

For the Cougars, Haffeman carried 10 times for 108 yards, Melser 22 for 86, and Belinske-Strauss 12 for 51 while completing five of nine passes for 42 yards with one interception.

the first half of the race,” said Persing, who passed several runners and was running very strong into the chute at the end.

The Cougars will run Saturday at the University of Minnesota Golf Course, girls at 12:15 p.m., boys at 1 p.m.

Team champions were the Forest Lake girls, led by Norah Hushagen, defending state champion, who won in 17:32, and the Duluth East boys. Lachan Demmer of Coon Rapids placed first in 15:49.

Girls team scoring was Forest Lake 26, Duluth East had 66, Centennial 89, Blaine 131, Andover 132, Cambridge-Isanti 137, Coon Rapids 138 and Anoka 212. Boys team scoring was Duluth East 47, Blaine 54, Anoka 107, Coon Rapids 111, Centennial 124, Forest Lake 136, Cambridge-Isanti 140, and Andover 159.

The Cougar girls had qualified for state the last two years with close runner-up finishes to Forest Lake. Their top five also included freshman Emma Delf, 18th in 19:58; senior Annelise Offerdahl, 26th in 20:58; and sophomore Brooke Hayes, 27th in 21:00.

The Cougar boys top five also included junior Kyler Nielsen, 19th in 17:06; freshman Evan Lautenschlager, 33rd in 17:52; and sophomore Andrew Parent, 50th in 18:47.

Miranda Sawvel is a strong No. 2 runner on the Centennial cross country team that’s done well throughout her career. Sawvel, a senior, helped the Cougars place third in the conference and section meets this season. She earned allSEC honors for the second time with an 11th-place finish in a 14-team meet, then qualified for state with a 14th place finish in Section 4AAA last week. She broke 20 minutes twice this year with 19:51 at Otsego and her career best 19:24 in the sectional at Anoka.

Centennial is top seeded in the Section 7AAAA volleyball tournament and opened with a win over the Coon Rapids Cardinals, 25-12, 25-9, 25-7, at home on Thursday evening. Eleną Hoecke notched 13 kills and five aces, Emma Peterson six kills and 10 digs and Addison Kemper five kills and four aces. Chase Manthey made 17 assists.

The Cougars (18-11) face Blaine (12-16) at home Tuesday, 6 p.m. in the semifinals while Anoka takes on Forest Lake. The championship will be played Thursday at North Branch, 7 p.m.

BRUCE STRAND | CONTRIBUTED

Headed for state are (from left) Alex Persing, Kylie Nelson, Liban Ahmed and Miranda Sawvel.

Bruce Strand

JON NAMYST | CONTRIBUTED

Emma Peterson soars to drive the ball from the back row against Coon Rapids.

COUNTY BRIEFS

County supports Operation Green Light for veterans For the third year, the county is participating in the national initiative called “Operation Green Light for Veterans.” The county will illuminate some of its facilities in green from Nov. 4 to 11. It is a simple way to remind veterans and their families that the community supports them. Contracts approved for renovation of secure pods The board approved a package of contracts for the renovation of the Anoka County Secure Program pods. The pods are currently being used as long-term housing space for juveniles who are deemed appropriate for secure placement. Modifications will improve security and mitigate the transmission of illness for the juveniles and cor-

rections staff.

Guggenberger reappointed as county assessor

The county board has adopted a resolution reappointing Alex Guggenberger as Anoka County Assessor. He has served in the role since July 1, 2016. Guggenberger’s term will run through Dec. 31, 2028.

Anoka County Finance Department receives National Leadership Award

The Anoka County Finance Department is the recipient of the cashVest National Leadership Award by three+one for Excellence in Financial Management.

The department is led by Chief Financial Officer Cory Kampf. The award recognizes his innovative financial planning, budgeting and resource management, according to a news release

from three+one.

Anoka County has earned cashVest’s 90+ Club Award two years in a row. This award signifies excellence in the implementation and management of all liquidity in the public and higher education marketplace, according to cashVest. It is not based on what the marketplace is paying for cash, but rather how a public entity or higher education institution operates within distinct qualifying areas.

“We are humbled to receive this award,” Kampf said. “This is exciting for us, and there’s a lot of hard work that goes on within our team. Every dollar we earn is a dollar we don’t have to take from the taxpayers and levies.”

866.852.5506

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BUSINESS BRIEF

Chamber

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Display Ad Network program by running the classified section of your newspaHowever, the decision is ultimately up to slightly in size to fit your column sizes. call MNA at 612/332-8844. Thank you. week beginning 10/27/2024 Metro

ribbon cutting ceremony. For more information, visit www.culvers.com/restaurants/lino-lakes-mnotter-lake-rd.

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

Display Ad Network program by running the classified section of your newspaHowever, the decision is ultimately up to slightly in size to fit your column sizes. call MNA at 612/332-8844. Thank you.

Understanding the Predatory Offender Registry

BY BILL STICKELS III ISANTI-CHISAGO COUNTY STAR EDITOR

Whenever a public meeting is scheduled to address a registered predatory offender moving into a community, such as what happened on Oct. 14 in Cambridge, there are inevitably a lot of concerns and questions that ultimately lead to misunderstandings. That’s where Brad Vandervegt, Notification Coordinator for the Minnesota Department of Corrections comes in.

Besides providing information regarding the specific offender the meeting has been called for, Vandervegt dedicates a majority of his presentation educating attendees about the Predatory Offender Registry Program as a whole, in hopes of raising awareness of predatory offenders in general.

In order to understand the current program, a person needs to know about the origins of it. According to Vandervegt, the registry program was created in the immediate aftermath of the 1989 Jacob Wetterling abduction.

“At the time, it was very specific to men who abducted children,” Vandervegt said. “Law enforcement said we need a tool that brings all of our data together. Because prior to the registry, if North Branch PD had an encounter with an individual who was engaging in questionable or problematic behavior, that would go into their file system. But if that person came to Cambridge, there was no way to readily share that information.

“What it does is it makes it instantaneous, so law enforcement in a time when need arises, can very quickly go into this database and whittle down a suspect list,” he continued.

The registry has grown and changed over the years, according to Vandervegt. Now, it doesn’t just include men who abduct children. It also includes anyone who has committed a sexual offense against another person. Therefore, the name has changed from the more commonly known “sex offender registry” to “predatory offender registry.”

Not for public

Vandervegt explained the registry itself is not open to the public. “The registry was developed as a policing tool. It collects and retains a great deal of information that is private data. The registry is only for law enforcement or corrections for the management or policing of this unique population.”

Some of the information that is now included in the registry is the person’s exact primary address of residence and any addresses that would be considered secondary residences.

“Think things like vacation properties, relatives’ homes, whatever the case may be,” Vandervegt said.

Other things that must be registered include storage units, any employment they have, any schools they attend; either online or in person, and any vehicles they may drive — including vehicles driven for an employer. Even things such as fish houses and boats must be registered. Additionally, any distinct physical traits must be noted such as scars, marks, and tattoos.

“Even the old, broke-down car in the backyard needs to be registered,” he said. “So you can see the robustness of this program.”

Different levels of registry

Vandervegt said the levels system came about out of the need for the public to be informed about people on the registry.

The Community Notification Act, federally known as “Meagan’s Law,” came about in 1997.

“It is predicated in the understanding that a well-informed community is in fact a safer community,” he said.

There are three levels of notification, which are based on an offender’s likelihood to commit another crime. It also

determines who and how many people in the general public should be notified of a predatory offender living in their community.

To be subject to any sort of notification, an offender must have gone to prison, which is technically different from going to jail. In other words, juveniles or anyone who receives a stayed or probationary sentence is not assessed a risk level.

“It does not imply that they have no risk,” Vandervegt explained. “It just means we haven’t measured it, unless or until they go to prison.”

He said the three levels are based on a risk assessment tool created from an extensive study performed with previous offenders to come up with a general predictability of a person re-offending. Level 1 means the offender scored in the lower range of known predictive risk factors. Level 2 has a moderate amount of risk factors. Level 3 has a higher amount of risk factors. He added that almost any offender can get reassessed and have their risk level raised or lowered.

The risk level also determines who in the public will be notified. Vandervegt said for a Level 1 offender, local law enforcement, victims of or witnesses to the offense if they’ve requested notification, plus immediate adult household members in the domicile of the registrant.

For a Level 2 offender, the same people as a Level 1 will be notified, plus additional individuals or entities that law enforcement determines to be of particular risk based on that registrant’s known patterns.

“It is commonly believed that with a Level 2 notification, law enforcement will notify schools, daycares, places where children congregate,” he said. Additionally, local law enforcement can choose other places to notify based on the person’s history of offenses. As an example, Vandervegt said if an offender is known to slip something into a person’s drink and take advantage of a person’s state of intoxication, then law enforcement might circulate the person’s name and picture to local bars.

Only Level 3 offenders warrant a broad notification such as the public meeting.

Why no locations limitations?

Easily the most common question

Vandervegt receives is why are offenders allowed to live in close proximity to things such as schools, libraries, churches, etc. The answer, quite simply, is that such limitations have turned out to be counter-productive.

“What they did was they drew circles around the places these people couldn’t live,” he said regarding communities that have enacted residency restrictions. “And inevitably they created places where they could live. And if you lived in that neighborhood, you weren’t too excited about that.

“The other problem with that is it destabilized the population. Homelessness went through the roof. And when we have a de-stabilized population of people who already have issues with managing and moderating their own behavior and conduct, and we make it even harder for them to meaningfully engage in their environment and community, we increase their risk. So the exact opposite thing happens. It feels good to think if we just push them out, we mitigate risk. But once you start peeling back the layers, you find they are counter-intuitive.”

Additionally, he said a study of over 5,000 sex offenders asked those who did re-commit a sexual offense if proximity to those locations impacted them committing the other offense. “What we found was across the board, none of them in any way would have been impacted by prohibiting the distance from a known place where children congregated,” he said, adding most likely those who would offend were invited into that area such as a staff member or volunteer.

BUSINESS BRIEF

Lino Lakes family opens Scooters in Blaine Scooter’s Coffee has opened a first-of-itskind endcap location at the National Sports Village, located at 2180 105th Ave. Suite 100, in Blaine. Instead of the typical kiosk, this location has a walk-in area in addition to its

drive-thru. It’s more than 1,200 square feet, or about twice the size of the standard Scooter’s Coffee kiosk.

The location is owned by Lino Lakes residents Susan and Brent Nygaard. The Nygaards discovered Scooter’s Coffee on a visit to Iowa. Susan’s a

COMMUNITY BRIEF

Mayor for a Day contest accepts essays The League of Minnesota Cities’ annual essay contest, Mayor for a Day, is back. Students in fourth, fifth and sixth grade can enter for a chance to win a

nurse, and Brent works in structural design, but both were ready for new challenges.

“The brand really spoke to us, especially their core values of integrity, love, humility and courage,” Susan said. “We are so excited to bring Scooter’s Coffee to the National Sports Village.”

The National Sports Village is a two-phase development designed to support the National Sports Center located next door. The National Sports Village will contain a variety of shops and restaurants to appeal to those visitors.

Omaha-based Scooter’s Coffee specializes in espresso drinks, fruit smoothies and bakedfrom-scratch pastries, and features its signature beverage, the Caramelicious. The company also offers its organic hot and iced teas, premium-grade brewed coffee, cold brew, breakfast items and a children’s menu. Fore more information about Scooters, visit www.scooterscoffee.com.

cash prize and recognition in the Minnesota Cities magazine. Essays are due Friday, Dec. 13. For more information, go to www.lmc.org/about/mayor-for-aday-essay-contest.

CONTRIBUTED

Lino Lakes residents Brent and Susan Nygaard own the new Scooter’s Coffee at the National Sports Village.