Quad Community Press

Kids meaning for the season

Lennar presents new concept plan for Watermark development

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

LINO LAKES — U.S Home LLC (dba Lennar) is proposing to amend housing products and lot widths in the Watermark planned unit development (PUD) land use plan.

Watermark is a 372-acre masterplanned residential community consisting of 692 single-family lots and 172 townhome units on the northwest corner of I-35E and Main Street.

City Planner Katie Larsen explained that the total housing unit count will not change

from the current total of 864; however, Lennar would like to make changes to the north end of the development to address the current housing market.

Josh Metzer, Lennar land entitlement manager, said that the company proposes to change some of its villa lots to townhomes, venture lots (45-55 feet wide) and heritage lots (55+ feet wide). In addition, it would like to introduce some 45-footwide lots and increase the overall public space in the development from 60.79 acres to 74.65 acres.

The reason for the changes, Metzer said, is twofold: the villa

product is not performing well right now and they are seeing a higher demand from buyers who want to be in the Forest Lake School District (the development also has homes in the White Bear Lake and Centennial districts).

“We have seen a lot more interest than we thought would be interested in Forest Lake Schools,” he said. “The villa product isn’t performing well right now.”

The Planning and Zoning Board had some concerns surrounding the elimination of the villa

Genevieve Strehlow, 6, of Mahtomedi, is the winner of the Press Publications Thanksgiving artwork challenge. Also pictured is secondplace winner (top right) Evelyn Wald, 10, of Blaine, and third-place winner (bottom right) Amelia Derkey, 6, of Dellwood. See inside to learn more about the local artist behind the idea.

CONTRIBUTED

Lennar is proposing to change up some of the housing products it will construct in the Watermark Development. Pictured is a single-family home in the Venture Series.

Meet the artist behind the Thanksgiving-inspired artwork challenge

This year for our Thanksgiving issue, Press Publications teamed up with local artist Frank Zeller to host an artwork challenge. Youth ages 3 to 10 were invited to submit a drawing that depicts their perspective of the Thanksgiving holiday. Zeller pitched the idea of the artwork contest to replace the longstanding tradition Press Publications has had in printing a coloring page in the newspaper and having children color it in. Q:

A: My 32-year teaching career started in 1962. Until 1996, I taught art education to elementary and high school students.

During this time, I became involved in community outreach by joining the White Bear Arts Council, which is now known as the White Bear Center for the Arts.

After retiring from teaching, I started the Elementary Artist in Residence program, going into the elementary schools with art lessons.

For over 20 years I have been teaching watercolor painting at the Art Center. I also have given watercolor workshops throughout Minnesota, Spain and Italy.

Q: What does your work aim to say?

A: My paintings express the uniqueness of transparency of watercolor compared to opaqueness of oil and acrylic paintings. I am drawn to subject matter that has an interesting light/dark pattern that I am challenged to capture.

I like paintings that reveal the artist’s brush strokes, arrangement of design and expression of mood.

There are three simple goals for me to paint: 1. The challenge 2. Expression through paint and design and 3. Sharing of one’s work.

Q: Where do you get your inspiration?

A: My inspiration comes from the challenge I see before me, staring at a blank sheet of paper, analyzing the scene before me. It’s not what is before me, but what I see in my mind I see as a pattern, of light, dark and color.

Q: Where can readers find your paintings?

A: I have paintings at the Art Preserve Gallery in White Bear Lake and at my home.

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

Genevieve Strehlow, 6, of Mahtomedi, is the first-place winner of the Thanksgiving artwork challenge.

POLICE REPORTS

The Lino Lakes Police Department reported the following incidents:

• While on patrol in the 6000 block of Hodgson Road Nov. 8, an officer located multiple unsecure gates at a construction site. The area was checked, the gates were resecured and the site supervisor was notified.

• Suspicious activity was reported in the 6500 block of Clearwater Creek Drive Nov. 8.

Officers responded to the 1400 block of Sherman Lake Road for a possible unwanted person in a house Nov. 8. Officers checked the house and did not find anyone inside.

• An officer received a report of possible financial exploitation of an elderly adult Nov. 8. The investigation is ongoing.

• A registered predatory offender in the 600 block of Town Center Parkway reported a change to their registration information Nov. 8. The information was updated and sent to the state.

• Officers responded to a report of a possible theft from a retail store in the 700 block of Apollo Drive Nov. 8. The investigation is ongoing. An officer responded to a residential complex in the 700 block of Town Center Parkway for a report of damage to property Nov. 8. The investigation is ongoing, but a possible suspect has been identified.

• A fraud report was received from the 1500 block of LaMotte Circle Nov. 9.

• An officer was informed of property damage that occurred at a residence in the 700 block of Town Center Parkway Nov. 9. The officer identified the juveniles involved

SNIPPETS

and all were trespassed from the property. Two juveniles were charged with damage to property.

• Officers responded to a report of a possible intoxicated driver in the 2100 block of Cedar Street W. Nov. 10. The driver was subsequently located and arrested for seconddegree DWI and several other violations.

• An officer was dispatched to a report of a juvenile male in possession of drugs at school in the 7500 block of Fourth Avenue Nov. 11. Officers notified the juvenile’s parent and the juvenile was cited for possession of drug paraphernalia.

• Officers responded to a delayed theft report from a motor vehicle in the 400 block of Arrowhead Drive Nov. 11. There are no suspects at this time.

• Officers responded to a residence in the 7700 block of Carole Drive to assist a homeowner deal with suspicious activity Nov. 11. The officers checked the interior of the residence, finding no signs of intrusion or damage. No problems or signs of criminal activity were located.

• Officers responded to a property damage accident in the 7500 block of Lake Drive Nov. 11. One of the drivers involved was arrested for driving under the influence.

• Officers responded to a singlevehicle accident in the 600 block of I-35E Nov. 11. Officers conducted an investigation and subsequently arrested a male driver for multiple violations.

• An officer responded to a report of a rollover accident with possible

• Resident Jessica Friedman and her daughter Abby are hoping the City Council will re-consider offering some summer recreation programming, specifically, the playground program. Friedman explained that all of her five children ages 7 to 15 have attended the program. “It was one of the things that really helped us to get to know our neighbors and our community,” she said. “It has been a huge benefit in our lives for so many reasons.”

Abby added, “I think we should start it back up again because I feel like it really builds a stronger community in our neighborhood. I used to know the kids a lot better,” she said. “It is really fun outside time during the summer ...”

Mayor Rob Rafferty explained that city staff were currently working through what the city can/cannot offer for 2023 and said he was hopeful that the program would be up and running this summer.

• The Centerville Lions have applied for a special event permit for a Christmas in the Park event to be held Dec. 10. Most of the event will be held in Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park in Centerville; however, a permit is needed because the Lions are proposing to have a horse-drawn trailer procession on LaMotte Drive in Lino Lakes.

• Approximately $95,655 of delinquent utility charges will be certified to the county for collection with 2022 property taxes, collectible in 2023. City staff annually brings before the City Council delinquent utility charges for certification to the county auditor for collection with the following year’s property taxes.

Delinquent charges include water, sewer and stormwater utility fees. City Finance Director Hannah Lynch explained that affected property owners were notified by mail and have been allowed ample time to pay the delinquent charges.

• The city continues to hire part-time staff for the Rookery Activity Center. Most recently, the council authorized the hiring of a guest services representative, child care worker, child watch, two aquatics leads and a couple of custodians.

• The city of Lino Lakes, like other cities within Anoka County, will submit a list of eligible nominees to Anoka County for consideration for the open manager position on the Rice Creek Watershed District Board of Managers. Lino Lakes’ nominee is resident Scott Robinson. The cities of Circle Pines, Blaine and Fridley will

injuries in the 300 block of I-35W Nov. 11. The officer assisted the State Patrol, which handled the incident.

• An officer located a smoldering fire in the Rice Creek Chain of Lakes County Park Nov. 11. The fire was extinguished and county park staff responded to handle the incident.

• An officer conducted a traffic stop for a stop sign violation at the intersection of Centerville Road and Ash Street Nov. 11. Marijuana and drug paraphernalia were found in the vehicle and the driver was issued a citation.

• An officer was dispatched on a report of damage to property in the 6200 block of West Shadow Lake Drive Nov. 12. The investigation is ongoing.

• While on patrol in the area of County Parkway E Nov. 13, an officer located a suspicious occupied vehicle at a closed park. The driver was subsequently cited for possession of drugs and paraphernalia.

• An officer responded to a phone call report regarding theft in the 300 block of Linda Lane Nov. 13. The caller reported that packages had been stolen from their porch. The information was collected and the investigation is ongoing.

• An officer ran a registration check on a vehicle spotted in the 1400 block of Ash Street Nov. 13 and learned the male registered owner didn’t have a valid driver’s license. The officer subsequently stopped the vehicle and arrested the male driver for driving after cancellation inimical to public safety, second-

also submit an eligible nominee, and many other Anoka County cities will support the nominees submitted by other Anoka County cities.

• Aquinas Roman Catholic Home Education Services (ARCHES) will conduct a bingo event Dec. 10 at St. Joseph of the Lakes Catholic Church. Under Minnesota Statutes, Section 349.166, excluded bingo may be conducted by an organization that conducts four or fewer bingo occasions in a calendar year.

• Changes will be made to the city’s fee schedule for 2023. Changes include: civic complex room reservations, field rental, water and utility rates, trunk utility connection, lateral service connection, surface water management, zoning confirmation letter and park dedication. A summary publication of the ordinance containing the updated fee schedule will be published.

• The council will consider the second reading of a zoning ordinance text and map amendment Nov. 28. Since March 2021, city staff, with assistance from Landform, has been working on updating the city’s zoning ordinance and map to bring them into compliance with the city’s Comprehensive Plan.

• WSB will prepare plans and specifications for the Pheasant Run reconstruction project for a notto-exceed amount of $67,788. The project includes roadway reconstruction, drainage improvements and new curb and gutter on Pheasant Run north of Birch Street. City Engineer Diane Hankee explained that the utility work will include replacing or rehabilitating the existing sanitary sewer along Pheasant Run and up to Captain’s Place and upsizing the existing potable water main from 6-inch diameter to 8-inch diameter along Pheasant Run and up to Captain’s Place and looping it back in at Black Duck Drive. The project will also include installing a new 12-inch diameter raw water main from Well No. 5 to Birch Street as outlined in the Comprehensive Plan.

The project is estimated to cost $1.27 million. Last month, the council made a revision to its 2020-24 street reconstruction to add the project for 2023. Hankee said the utilities in Pheasant Run are the oldest in the city and the water main is undersized under current standards for improved service pressure and circulation.

The council is expected to consider bids for the project in late February for construction next year. The next City Council meeting will be at 6:30 p.m.

degree DWI and alcohol content 0.08 or more. The male was booked into jail.

• An officer responded to the 7700 block of Lake Drive on a report of snowmobilers who were violating city ordinance on Nov. 14. Officers were unable to locate the snowmobilers.

The Centennial Lakes Police Department reported the following incidents:

• An officer conducted a traffic stop near the intersection of Lake Drive and Pine Drive in Circle Pines Nov. 10. The driver was subsequently arrested on outstanding warrants.

• Suspicious activity was reported in the 8800 block of Jackson Avenue Nov. 10.

• A theft was reported in the 50 block of Indian Hills Drive in Circle Pines Nov. 12.

• An officer observed a traffic violation near the intersection of Lake Drive and Griggs Avenue in Lexington Nov. 12. The driver was subsequently arrested for DWI.

• An officer observed a traffic violation at the intersection of South Highway Drive and Griggs Avenue in Lexington Nov. 13. The driver was subsequently arrested for DWI.

• Officers responded to a property damage accident at the intersection of Lovell Road and Lexington Avenue in Lexington Nov. 14. The drivers exchanged information and only minor damage was reported.

PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEF

Centerville man dies in hunting accident

A 65-year-old man from Centerville has died after falling out of a tree stand while hunting in Crooked Lake Township in Cass County. According to the Cass County Sheriff’s Office, at 2:27 p.m. Nov. 7 the sheriff’s office received a 911 call regarding a hunting incident. Deputies and first responders arrived on scene to learn that the male was deer hunting and had fallen out of a tree stand, possibly due to a medical issue. CPR and lifesaving efforts were attempted on scene, but the male was pronounced deceased.

Monday, Nov. 28, at City Hall. There will also be a work session immediately beforehand at 6 p.m. in the community room.

Shannon Granholm

LINO LAKES CITY COUNCIL

Meet a reporter

Iwas recently invited to attend an event called “Ice Cream for Books and Numbers at Sunrise Elementary in Blaine. The purpose of the event was for students to explore writing, reading and math in the real world. Teacher Judie Anderson Offerdahl reached out to me to see if I’d be willing to attend the event. “We are going to have a newspaper article station and thought it would be awesome if a real reporter was available to field questions,” she said. I met Judie back in 2017 when I wrote the article, “Blaine teacher and students recognized for sportsmanship.” Judie, her collogues and students at North Pointe Elementary in Blaine were honored with a Musial Award (formerly known as the National Sportsmanship Awards). They were given the award for writing letters of encouragement to Minnesota Vikings kicker Blair Walsh missed a 27-yard field goal in a playoff game.

Shannon’s Shenanigans

Shannon Granholm

I have to admit I was a bit nervous to go to the event for a couple of reasons. First, I was nervous because I’m nearing my due date and there seems to be so much sickness going around these days, especially in schools and daycares. Second, I was nervous because I never like the attention being on me. I wasn’t quite sure how the event would go, but I’m so glad I chose to participate.

During the event, students and their families were able to participate in a variety of activities revolving around reading, writing and math. As students stopped by the different stations and completed activities, they would color in a scoop on their ice cream cone coloring sheet. Once all of their scoops were colored in, they were invited to enjoy some ice cream.

I was at a newspaper station. During the event I fielded questions about what its like to be a reporter for a local newspaper and what the job entails. While visiting the table, students could draw a Thanksgiving-themed photo if they wanted to participate in our Thanksgiving contest or they could make their very own front page. On their front page, they could come up with a newspaper name, write headlines, draw pictures and write stories.

One student came up to me and said “only old people read newspapers” and that couldn’t be farther from the truth. According to a Minnesota Market Study conducted by Coda Ventures, 86% of Minnesota adults read newspapers (print and online) and of that, 78% are under the age of 65. I was impressed with the curiosity of the students (and their parents). Some of the questions I was asked included: “How do you decide what to write? How many stories a week do you write? What do you write about? Is your job hard?”

During the event I ran into a couple of other familiar faces too. A captain of a cross country team happened to find a story and photo of his team in a paper that was hanging up right behind me. I also ran into Wendy Dahlen, president of Granny’s Closet, who was thrilled to discover a story about the nonprofit’s Angel Program was on the front page of that week’s issue.

Seeing both of their faces light up when they saw the newspaper just warmed my heart. Judie noticed too and told me, “Look at the smiles your newspaper is bringing.”

T his Thanksgiving I’m thankful for community members who appreciate the local newspaper. It can often be a thankless job and sometimes you lose sight of all the people who enjoy reading the newspaper after a few angry letters trickle in.

Publications.

New to non-fiction?

Wh ile a great fictional story can warm your heart, chill your spine, or transport you to a fantasy location, real life can often be even more mysterious, provoking, scary, or aweinspiring. I am excited to present some new nonfiction titles that we have received at Anoka County Library this year.

years ago when an asteroid seven miles in diameter crashed into the earth. Within days, most dinosaurs became extinct. Black’s mixture of science and storytelling makes for a captivating read told mostly from the animals’ perspective.

tells the story of stewardesses in the 1960’s who fought back against the airlines’ regulations of their weight, dress, and forced resignation at the age of 32.

I read “The Man Who Invented Motion Pictures: A True Tale of Obsession, Murder, and the Movies” by Paul Fisher this summer. This is the story of Louis Le Prince, a Frenchman working in England and later in America to develop the first moving picture camera in 1888. This book reads like a mystery novel as it tells the story of how just weeks before unveiling his invention to the world, Louis Le Prince inexplicably disappeared and was never seen or heard from again.

Movers

“Diamonds and Deadlines: A Tale of Greed, Deceit, and a Female Tycoon in the Gilded Age” by Betsy Prioleau is the biography of Mrs. Frank Leslie who ran a major publishing company in New York in the 1870s and 1880s. Scandal, intrigue, and the backdrop of the opulent Gilded Age fill the pages of Leslie’s life in this biography that reads more like a blockbuster movie than a historical accounting of real events.

“Wise Gals: The Spies Who Built the CIA and Changed the Future of Espionage” by Nathalia Holt is the story of four women spies who after the end of World War II helped design the policies which guided the CIA into the organization it is today.

“Black Snow: Curtis LeMay, the Firebombing of Tokyo, and the Road to the Atomic Bomb” by James Scott. On March 10, 1945, nearly 300 American bombers dropped incendiary bombs on Tokyo causing massive destruction and the enormous loss of life for Japanese civilians.

A nother title that I found fascinating was “The Last Days of the Dinosaurs: An Asteroid, Extinction, and the Beginning of Our World” by Riley Black. Life changed dramatically 66 million

• 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

A few more titles from my to be read list that vividly recount real history with all of it’s better than fiction elements include: Kevin M. Hazzard’s story of Freedom House EMS in Pittsburgh, “American Sirens: The Incredible Story of the Black Men Who Became America’s First Paramedics”, where a group of young black men came together to provide their community with a new form of healthcare.

“ The Great Stewardess Rebellion: How Women Launched a Workplace Rebellion at 30,000 Feet” by Nell McShane Wulfhart

Scott reconstructs the night from first-person interviews with American pilots and bombardiers and Japanese survivors, air force archives, and oral histories.

I f I’ve tickled your nonfiction fancy, you may also want to try streaming documentaries for free with your library card from the Kanopy streaming service. Look for Kanopy under the “Movies and Music” tab in our catalog.

QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS | LETTER GUIDELINES

at 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.

• 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.

Joan Van Norman is an associate librarian at the Centennial branch in Circle Pines.

Shannon Granholm is the managing editor at Press

CIRCLE PINES CITY COUNCIL SNIPPETS

• The city of Circle Pines saw a 70% voter turnout in the general election. Council Member Steve McChesney shared some stats: 707 voters chose to vote absentee

Of the 3,352 voters who registered to vote, a little over 2,000 actually followed through and cast their votes 70% voter turnout is slightly lower than what the city saw in the last mid-term election in 2018 (80%).

“Circle Pines residents are really doing a great job doing their civic duty. Seventy percent is better than the state average, it is still very high. I’m proud that people were out to vote,” Council Member Dean Goldberg said. “People want to get involved, they want to do something for the city to make it continue to be a great place to live, and I’m proud of that.”

• The city has heard from some concerned citizens regarding cannabinoid dispensaries and methadone clinics, both of which have been discussed recently in neighboring cities. City Administrator Patrick Antonen described the topics as a “non-issue.”

He explained that per city code, a methadone

Penny is a sweet, gentle, middle-aged (approximately 4-5 years old) German shepherd mix, who wants nothing more than to be with her people at all times. She’s a walking shadow, and will accompany you wherever you go. She also craves attention. Penny (or Penelope) will be a wonderful companion for someone who likes to go on long walks and then snuggle afterward.

Penny weighs about 55 pounds and is friendly with all people she meets. She is also social with other dogs. Penny is smart and eager to please. She knows a few of her basic commands and would benefit from some more formal training. She is house-trained and kennel-trained, although the kennel is not her favorite place to be. She would much rather be out and be part of the family.

If you are looking for an affectionate, intelligent, sweet companion, then Penny is waiting for you. If you are interested in learning more about Penny or adopting her, please fill out an application at www.ruffstartrescue.org. Once your application is received, Ruff Start Rescue will contact you as soon as possible.

clinic would only be permitted in the city’s C3 zone, of which there is only one. “The agency that is looking to locate these wants to locate them in strip malls, and neither of the buildings in the C3 are strip malls. Neither would be compatible with their use, so that is kind of a non-issue because there really isn’t a facility in town that would fit within our zoning.”

Council Member Matt Percy said he would still like to discuss the idea of considering a similar ordinance that was passed in Lexington.

Antonen said there also isn’t a location in the city where a cannabinoid dispensary could locate. “We do have a couple vacancies in the strip malls that they could, but they are not ideal to that type of business,” he said. “Right now, we don’t have any businesses that are looking to sell it in town. We could do a moratorium. I don’t know if it is worth it to waste our time on it. It is pretty easy to order whatever you want and get it delivered to your house. It’s not doing anything to stop the sale of it, it’s just pushing it further out.”

• For the third time, the city of Circle Pines will submit a list of eligible nominees to the Anoka County Board of Commissioners for the open

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Another broken promise in the making?

Almost since its inception, Lino Lakes has been in the practice of giving developers whatever they ask for while giving the residents and taxpayers nothing in return. The recent proposal by Silver Creek Equity to renege on the deal for restaurant/commercial development while still constructing an apartment building near the now-defunct YMCA is merely the latest in a very long line of similar broken promises.

“The company would like to move forward with the development of the multifamily building,” reports the Quad Press Nov. 15. Well, DUH!

Does anybody doubt that this was the plan all along? Dangle what our people and our City Council want the most in exchange for permission to build the last thing we need: rental units. It should have been obvious to everyone involved that there wouldn’t be any new restaurant or retail buildings with a recession looming. But the developer claimed to be working with two restaurants, and those pieces would likely happen first. Our city bit, and now we’re chewing on the old bait-and-switch trick.

manager position on the Rice Creek Watershed District (RCWD) Board of Managers. This is the second year the city will submit a joint list with the neighboring cities for consideration. The cities of Blaine, Centerville, Columbia Heights, Spring Lake Park, Fridley and Lino Lakes will submit a list of four nominees. Circle Pines’ nominee is Jan Kreminski, chair of the utilities commission.

“We have been trying for years to get some change on this board and we are hopeful that this is the year that this will happen,” Antonen said. “Hopefully, this will send a message to the board that the cities in the watershed would like a change and we want some representation from our area on the board.”

The county board is expected to make an appointment to the RCWD Board of Managers sometime in January.

The next City Council meeting will be at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 22.

Shannon Granholm

COMMUNITY BRIEF

Fortunately, the deal is written such that we don’t have to let the rental units proceed without the retail. But just like always, a majority on the City Council is agreeable to the developer’s switcharoo. They’ll probably craft some loophole-ridden “assurance” that the developer will make “a good-faith effort” to live up to the bargain and then green-light the apartments.

“Legacy at Woods Edge” was established decades ago to be the crown jewel of Lino’s town center initiative, featuring retail and restaurants and mixeduse rather than multifamily housing. Disappointingly, it’s instead filling with crowded, dense multifamily units that don’t fit the character of Lino Lakes, don’t fulfill our shopping and eating needs and don’t generate as many property tax dollars. The last thing we need is more of the same while sacrificing prime space that was intended to be commercial all along.

Please join me in urging your City Council members to stick to their guns and not bow to the developer’s wishes.

Legion offers free meals for Thanksgiving

Lino Lakes American Legion Post 566 will serve free Thanksgiving meals from noon to 4 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day (Thursday, Nov. 24). The meals are for those in need, first responders or people who do not have anyone to spend the holiday with.

Enter Press Publications’

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CONTRIBUTED

Mike Trehus Lino Lakes

• The city is catching up on some of its overlooked paperwork after five years, after council unanimously (4-0; Council Member Michelle Lakso was absent) approved a memorandum of agreement for floodway modeling for the Rice Creek Watershed District (RCWD). The city recently received a notification from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) that papers detailing the impacts to the flood plain following a development along 21st Avenue had not been filed. Developments to the west of 21st Avenue will pay for filing the papers, and the city will take responsibility for filing them. “We’ll be assured it’s done correctly, because we’re the ones in control and responsible for it,” said Mayor D. Love.

• Recently, the city of Circle Pines successfully sued Anoka County in the Minnesota Supreme Court, arguing that an appointment made by the county board to the RCWD Board of Managers violated state law. For some time, the two managers that represent Anoka County have both resided in Columbus, and a group of cities in east Anoka County has sought to have a more even-handed geographic and hydrologic representation of the county on the watershed district board. Eight cities in Anoka County located within RCWD have jointly submitted a list of five names for three-year terms to be considered for an appointment to the RCWD board of managers. The cities of Blaine, Centerville, Circle Pines, Columbia Heights, Fridley, Lino

Lakes, Lexington and Spring Lake Park will all pass resolutions supporting the candidates, even if one of their own residents is not on the list, Centerville City Administrator/Engineer Mark Statz said, adding, “It’s good for the city to back the list instead of being silent.” Statz said he spoke to several community members about the possibility of serving on the board, but so far, none felt they would be available to do so. Anyone living within watershed district boundaries is eligible to be on the board.

• People who didn’t pay their utility bills are going to pay, one way or the other. Following a public hearing, council certified delinquent utility, garbage and nuisance abatement charges to the county for collection on the 2023 payable property taxes. “This is an annual thing we

do,” said Statz. “Unfortunately, this is the way some of the citizens pay their bills,” he added. A public hearing is part of the process, which municipalities have the authority to conduct, during which anyone on the delinquent rolls is given a chance to comment.

• The new year is coming, and the city wants to be ready in all aspects, including its fee schedule. Council conducted the first reading for changes to the 2023 fee schedule and called for a public hearing to be held at the regular Dec. 14 meeting. With any ordinance affecting land use, a public hearing should be held and the ordinance read twice — each time on a separate meeting agenda. The most notable changes to the fee schedule

PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES

CITY OF CENTERVILLE

NOTICE OF SCHEDULED PUBLIC HEARING OF THE CITY COUNCIL TO CONSIDER THE ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE #129, SECOND SERIES 2023

FEE SCHEDULE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the City of Centerville City Council will be holding a Public Hearing to consider Ordinance #129, Second Series –2023 Fee Schedule on Wednesday, December 14, 2022 at 6:30 p.m. or short ly thereafter. The meeting will be held in Council Chambers of the Centerville City Hall, located at 1880 Main Street, Centerville, MN 55038. The purpose of the meeting is to obtain public input regarding the City’s fees that are charged.

You may call City Hall (651) 792-7933 or email mstatz@centervillemn. com or tbender@centervillemn.com if you have any questions or concerns regarding this matter. A copy of the proposed amendments will be available for inspection at City Hall and the meeting is open to the public. If you are unable to attend the Public Hearing, written comments are welcome and will be accepted until 12:00 p.m. the Friday prior to the meeting date.

In accordance with the Americans With Disability Act, a hearing-impaired individual(s), wishing to attend the Public Hearing may request a sign lan guage translator by contacting City Hall at (651) 429-3232 within one week prior to the scheduled public hearing.

Teresa Bender, City Clerk

Published one time in the Quad Community Press on November 22, 2022.

CITY OF LINO LAKES

COUNTY OF ANOKA

SUMMARY OF ORDINANCE NO. 07-22 2023 CITY FEE SCHEDULE

The City of Lino Lakes City Council does ordain the following:

Section 1. Findings. Pursuant to Minnesota Law, the Lino Lakes City Charter, and the Lino Lakes City Code, and upon a review of a study con ducted by City staff, a fee schedule for City services and licensing is hereby adopted as follows: 2023 FEE SCHEDULE

A. Alcoholic Beverages; B. Amusement and Commercial Recreation; C. Business and Miscellaneous; D. Fire Regulations; E. Police Fees; F Rentals & Reservations; G. Building – Construction Utilities; H. Escrow Deposits; I. Right-Of-Way Management; J. Utility Fees; K. Culvert Prices; L. Land Use; M. Development Fees; N. Economic Development Assistance; O. Staff Time; P Late Fee

Section 2. Effective Date of Ordinance. This ordinance shall be effec tive on January 1, 2023.

This is a summary of the adopted ordinance. A full printed copy of the

ordinance is available at City Hall.

Passed by the Lino Lakes City Council this 14th day of November 2022. Rob Rafferty, Mayor

ATTEST: Julianne Bartell, City Clerk.

Published one time in the Quad Community Press November 22, 2022.

DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY

PUBLIC NOTICE

Proposed Flood Hazard Determinations for the City of Lino Lakes, Anoka County, Minnesota, and Case No. 22-05-1976P. The Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) solicits technical information or comments on proposed flood hazard determinations for the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM), and where applicable, the Flood Insurance Study (FIS) report for your community. These flood hazard determinations may include the addition or modification of Base Flood Elevations, base flood depths, Special Flood Hazard Area boundaries or zone designations, or the regulatory floodway. The FIRM and, if applicable, the FIS report have been revised to reflect these flood hazard determinations through issuance of a Letter of Map Revision (LOMR), in accordance with Title 44, Part 65 of the Code of Federal Regulations. These determinations are the basis for the floodplain management measures that your community is required to adopt or show evidence of having in effect to qualify or remain qualified for participation in the National Flood Insurance Program. For more information on the proposed flood hazard determinations and information on the statutory 90-day period provided for appeals, please visit FEMA’s website at https://www.floodmaps.fema.gov/fhm/BFE_Status/bfe_main.asp, or call the FEMA Mapping and Insurance eXchange (FMIX) toll free at 1-877-FEMA MAP (1-877-336-2627).

Published two times in the Quad Community Press on November 15 and 22, 2022.

RICE CREEK WATERSHED DISTRICT

ANOKA COUNTY DITCH 25 (ACD 25)

DRAINAGE SYSTEM RECORD PUBLIC HEARING

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Rice Creek Watershed District Board of Managers will hold a public hearing on the correction of the drainage sys tem record for ACD 25 on Wednesday, December 14, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. at the Shoreview City Council Chambers, 4600 North Victoria Street, Shore view, MN. The RCWD established the option for the public to participate in its meetings either in person or virtually. Public participation using interactive technology will also be possible using Zoom. Contact staff at 763-398-3070 or tstasica@ricecreek.org to obtain the zoom instructions. In addition, by a declaration under Minnesota Open Meeting Law Section 13D.021, one or more managers may choose to attend remotely based on their or their family’s health considerations. A historical review memo discussing the system’s his toric alignment, dimension, and grade can be found online at www.ricecreek. org under “Public Drainage” or the District office at 4325 Pheasant Ridge Dr. NE, Suite 611 Blaine, MN 55449. Questions or comments on the system can be directed by email to Tom Schmidt at: tschmidt@ricecreek.org, phone: at 763-398-3076, or to the address above.

Published one time in the Quad Community Press on November 22, 2022.

ONGOING EVENTS

CRIBBAGE

When: 12:45 p.m. Monday, Nov. 28; the 4th Monday of every month

Where: Rice Lake Centre, east end of Hugo Public Works building, 6900 137th Street N.

Details: Senior citizens from Hugo and surrounding area are invited to an afternoon of cribbage. Coffee and refreshments served.

Contact: 651-429-4413

DROP-IN 55+ FITNESS CLASSES

When: 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays

Where: Rice Lake Centre, east end of Hugo Public Works building, 6900 137th Street N.

Details: Free fitness classes for Hugoarea adults 55+ by Live 2B Healthy. Class designed for seniors to help improve balance, strength, and flexibility in a group setting. Periodic fitness tests so participants can track their progress.

Contact: Barb @ 651-592-0369 or barbconnolly1958@yahoo.com

CURRENT EVENTS

‘A CHRISTMAS STORY’

When: 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays Nov. 18Dec. 18. 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3 and Friday, Dec. 9; 7:30 p.m. Monday, Dec.

5

Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave., White Bear Lake

Details: Holiday favorite performed by Lakeshore Players Theatre. Tickets $10-$30.

Contact: 651-478-7427 or

lakeshoreplayers.org

FAST BEFORE THE FEAST

When: 7-10:30 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 24 Where: Boatworks Commons, 4495 Lake Ave., S., White Bear Lake Details: 10K, 5K and 1.5 mile Turkey DashVirtual option available Contact: 651-440-9625 or mmraces.com

COMEDY SHOW

When: 6:30 & 9 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 23

Where: Running Aces, 15201 Zurich St., Forest Lake Details: John Bush headlines with Bruce Leroy Williams and Ethan Pederson. Tickets $25 or $30 day of show; dinner options available. Contact: 651-925-4600 or runaces.com

THANKSGIVING MEALS

When: noon-4 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 24 Where: American Legion Post 566, Lino Lakes Details: Free Thanksgiving meals for those in need, first responders, and others who don’t have anyone to spend the holidays with.

Nutcracker Suite Ballet

When: 2 & 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 25; 2 & 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 26; 1 & 6 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 27

Where: Stillwater Area High School Auditorium, 5701 Stillwater Blvd. N. Details: Family-friendly version of the classic Christmas ballet featuring students and professional dancers from St. Croix Ballet. Tickets $23. Contact: 651-439-2820 or stcroixballet. com

HOMETOWN FOR THE HOLIDAYS

When: Nov. 26-Dec. 31 Where: Downtown Stillwater Details: Free family events happening every weekend through Dec. kick-off

with Black Friday shopping deals at downtown shops and restaurants; also include Wintertime in Stillwater Lights Show, costumed Victorian carolers, caroling Biercycle tours, holiday tea events, horse-drawn wagon rides, photos with Santa, New Years Eve ball drop, and more. See schedule and details online. Contact: DiscoverStillwater.com/ events

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY

When: Saturday, Nov. 26 Where: Businesses throughout the area

Details: Shop small and locally-owned businesses for deals and specials the day after ‘Black Friday’.

ST. PAUL HIKING CLUB

When: 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 27 Where: Vadnais-Sucker Lake Recreational Area Details: Hike flat, paved trail that is easy to walk. Contact: stpaulhike.com

WINTER HOLIDAY CELEBRATION

When: 4-7:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 27 Where: Tom Ryan Park, 10802 Town Square Drive NE, Blaine Details: Community event with lighting of the park, live holiday music, s’mores and hot chocolate by a fire, and Santa and his reindeer. Also secret holiday shopping spree for kids inside city hall. Personal shoppers will help kids pick out gifts in the $1$11 range. Registration required for shopping event. Contact: blainemn.gov

‘CHRISTMAS UNDER THE STARS’

When: 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 27 Where: Roseville Lutheran Church, 1215 W. Roselawn Ave. Details: Christmas concert performed

by Lake Country and North Star Chorus. Tickets $15 general admission. Contact: lakecountrychorus.org

HUGO LIONS ANNUAL SENIOR DINNER

When: 5 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 7 Where: Hugo American Legion, Details: Annual dinner for Hugo residents ages 65+. RSVP required by Nov. 30.

Contact: 651-592-0369

PJS WITH SANTA

When: 6-8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2 Where: Vadnais Heights Commons, 655 County Rd. F E.

Details: Children can wear pajamas, enjoy treats and visit with Santa. Registration deadline Nov. 25; $10/ family residents and $20/family nonresidents. Contact: cityvadnaisheights.com

TWINKLE

PARTY AND CITY TREE LIGHTING

When: 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3 Where: Lowell Park, Stillwater Details: Celebrate the lighting of the tree with twinkle lights and visit with Santa, followed by music and fireworks. Free family event. Contact: DiscoverStillwater.com/ events

HOMETOWN HOLIDAY

When: Saturday, Dec. 3 Where: Forest Lake City Center and Lakeside Memorial Park Details: Annual community event with family-friendly activities and tree lighting.

Contact: ci.forest-lake.mn.us/283/ Hometown-Holiday

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY all real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Ho using Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any prefer en ce limitation or discriminat ion based on race co lo r, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or nationa l origin, or an intention, to make any such prefer en ce limitation or discriminat ion.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 livin g with parents or legal cu stod ians; pregnant women and peop le securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not kn owingly ac cept any ad vertising for real esta te which is in violation of the law. Our readers ar e hereby informed that all dw ellings advertised in this newsp ap er are available on an equal oppor tunity basis To complain of discrimi nation call HUD toll free: 1-800-669-9 777. The toll-free number for hearing impaired is 1-800-927-92 75

NOW HIRING

Press Publications We Need You!!! Now accepting resumes Part -t ime and Full-time ppinfo@pres spubs. com 65 1-407-1200

651-653-9845 4687 Bald Eagle Ave., WBL 55110

PUBLIC WORKS MAINTENANCE WORKER FULL TIME POSITION AVAILABLE

White Bear Township, in Suburban Ramsey County, is accepting applications for a Full Time Public Works Maintenance Worker position. Re sponsibilities include, but are not limited to water, sewer, streets, parks, buildings, and equipment op eration and maintenance activities. Applicants must be able to obtain a Class B CDL driver’s license, with air brake and tanker endorsements, within 6 months of employment and have a good driving record. Starting wage is $27.48/hr plus benefits. The application and complete job description is available for pickup at the Township office located at 1281 Hammond Road, White Bear Township, Min nesota 55110, or by calling 651.747.2750, or on the Township’s website at www.whitebeartownship.org.

Applications will be accepted until 4:30 p.m., Friday, December 16, 2022.

Love Driving? Care about people?

We have a job for YOU!!

Looking for Full-time and PartTime Drivers to provide group ride transportation for adults with disabilities and other community members. Located in WBL. Paid Training. No special licenses needed, just a valid MN Driver’s License, a kind heart and willingness to learn.

Contact Patti at preber@newtrax.org or 651-846-9303

PARTS RUNNER - SHOP HELPER

IMMEDIATE - Full-Time employment opportunity with great benefits for a parts runner / shop helper at our Lino Lakes facility.DAYTIME HOURSIMMEDIATE OPENINGS Emergency Apparatus Maintenance, Inc provides full service and repair of fire apparatus, ambulances and other emergency vehicles. Due to our rapid growth and expansion we are looking for professional, reliable parts runner and shop helper to join our team.

Job Requirements: Pre-employment physical and drug screen required. Good driving record. Must have a Class B CDL license.

Excellent Benefits: medical/dental/life insurance, Holiday/Vacation pay and a HUGE retirement plan. Also, uniforms provided.

Thanksgiving Leftover Casserole

Ingredients:

• 4 cups seasoned stuffing cubes

• 4 cups cubed cooked turkey

• 2 celery ribs, finely chopped

• 1 cup frozen peas

• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries

• 1/2 cup chopped sweet onion

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 4 large eggs

• 3 cups 2% milk

• 1 can (8-1/4 ounces) cream-style corn

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon pepper

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1/3 cup coarsely chopped pecans

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Layer first six ingredients in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. In a large bowl, whisk flour, eggs and milk until smooth. Add corn, salt and pepper; mix well. Pour over top; let stand 15 minutes. Dot with butter and sprinkle with pecans.

Cover and bake 35 minutes. Uncover and bake 30-35 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

Taste of Home

Turkey Noodle Hot Dish

1 cup shredded cheese

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and garlic. Stir and cook 2 minutes. Gradually stir in flour until blended. Stir in milk until smooth. Stir in bouillon granules. Cook and stir until slightly thickened. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients except cheese. Spoon mixture into a lightly greased 2-quart baking dish. Top with shredded cheese. Cover and bake about 30 minutes or until very hot and bubbly. Serves 4 to 6.

• 1 cup cooked wild rice

• Up to 1 cup leftover turkey gravy

• Pinch of dried thyme

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

Place turkey carcass in a large pot and cover with about 6 quarts of water. Add one of the onions, one chopped carrot, two chopped stalks of celery, bay leaves, thyme, garlic, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat and simmer for 2 hours over low heat.

While the broth is cooking, chop up the remaining vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Pour the cooked broth through a strainer over another large pot. Discard bird carcass and all the solids. Bring the broth back to a boil and add chopped vegetables. Cook until veggies are tender, about 30 minutes. Add gravy, rice and chicken. Bring back to a simmer and simmer 5 more minutes.

Lisa Erickson

Thanksgiving Sandwich

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons mayonnaise

• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

• 4 slices sourdough bread, toasted

• 2 cups leftover roasted turkey

• 1/2 cup leftover mashed potatoes

• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce

• 1/2 cup leftover stuffing 1/4 cup gravy, warmed

• 1/4 cup baby spinach, packed

Directions:

Ingredients:

• 1 8-ounce package wide egg noodles, cooked according to package directions

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 tablespoon minced onions

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 1/2 cups whole milk

• 1 tablespoon chicken-flavor bouillon granules

• 1/2 cup plain yogurt

• 2 cups cubed cooked turkey

• 2 cups frozen broccoli cuts or leftover vegetables

• 1/4 teaspoon dried sage

Ingredients:

The Great Minnesota Hot Dish

Leftover Turkey Soup

• One leftover cooked turkey carcass

2 large onions, cut into small diced pieces

• 5 carrots

• 5 stalks celery

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 bay leaves

• 2-3 cups of leftover turkey meat

Thanksgiving foods your pet can — and can’t — eat

wreak havoc on canine and feline stomachs.

• Never give your pet cooked turkey bones and make sure the trash is out of reach of your pet. Cooked bones are dangerous and can lead to choking and cause obstructions in the gastrointestinal tract. Other Thanksgiving foods to avoid include:

• Desserts: chocolate is poisonous for both cats and dogs. Also, look out for xylitol,

• An artificial sweetener commonly found in ingredient lists Garlic, onions, and chives: irritate stomachs in small amounts, toxic in large amounts

• Grapes and raisins: can cause kidney damage

• Nuts: can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and pancreatitis

• Salty snacks: cause excessive thirst and sodium poisoning

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and as you’re cooking up the turkey, stuffing and all the fixings, you may wonder, can I give a taste of any of this to my pet?

• A bite or two of turkey is safe, but avoid the skin and spices. The high fat content in turkey skin can cause pancreatitis, and spices can

If you don’t want your pet feeling left out, consider getting them their own treat to celebrate! You can pick up a turkey-based treat from your local pet store or give your furry friend a taste of raw pumpkin or sweet potato that doesn’t include any sugar, seasonings, or toppings.

• In a small bowl, mix together mayo and mustard. Spread one side of two pieces of bread with this Dijonnaise mixture. This is your base for both sandwiches.

• Top each of the two slices of bread with 1 cup of turkey, 1/4 cup mashed potatoes, 2 tablespoons cranberry sauce, 1/4 cup stuffing, and then 2 tablespoons of gravy and spinach. Place second piece of bread on top to complete each sandwiche. Slice in half and serve.

Rian Handler

On Tuesday morning, November 8, the sun shined bright, but then clouds moved in late that morning. From that day until Saturday, November 19, clouds ruled the day. During that period I recorded rain, freezing drizzle and nearly 6 inches of snow. You ask, what is the cloudiest period of the year on average? Mid November. You can’t beat climatology.

Visit WeathermanWatson.com to PREORDER my 2023 weather calendar. Thanks for your support!

Frank Watson is a local Meteorologist who operates a weather station in White Bear Lake. Weather data and observation are from his weather station and trips around the area. Frank can be found on the internet at WeathermanWatson.com.

Frank Watson

Twinkie, a 5 year old Corgi, is ready to celebrate Thanksgiving safely.

Selection tips: What to look for when buying a tree

When purchasing from a retail lot

Measure your space

• Be sure you know what size (height and width) you need before heading to the retail lot. Measure the ceiling height in the room where the tree will be displayed. The trees in the field look small when the sky is the ceiling. Don’t overbuy. Measure the width of the area of the room where the tree will be displayed. Most trees on tree farms are trimmed to an 80% taper. So a tree that’s 10’ tall will be 8’ wide at the bottom. A tree that will fit in the room vertically may be entirely too big horizontally.

• Think about what type of decorations you will be using

Some species have more open foliage, stiffer branches or longer needles. Research the characteristics of the different species in our tree varieties section, then find a farm near you that has the species you are looking for.

• Learn about the different species of trees

If you want the same species you know or have always used, great. If you want to try a different species, browse the tree varieties section of NCTA’s website to become familiar with the species popular in your area before heading to the retail lot.

• Safety first

Go to a retail lot that is well-lit and stores trees in a shaded area.

• Ask questions about the trees at the lot

Ask the retailer when he/she gets the trees: are they delivered once at the beginning of the season, or several shipments during the season? Often, a tree obtained soon after its arrival on the retail lot will be very fresh because it was cut recently. Also ask the retailer which tree type performs best in your climate. Some species last longer and remain fresh longer than others in different climates.

• Do a branch/needle test for freshness Run a branch through your enclosed hand – the needles should

not come off easily. Bend the outer branches – they should be pliable. If they are brittle and snap easily, the tree is too dry.

• Look for other indicators of dryness or deterioration

Indicators might include: excessive needle loss, discolored foliage, musty odor, needle pliability, and wrinkled bark. A good rule-of-thumb is, when in doubt about the freshness of a tree, select another one. If none of the trees on the lot look fresh, go to another lot.

• Recycling your tree

Ask the retailer about recycling Christmas Trees in your community.

What to expect at a choose and cut farm

• Be aware of possible farm hazards

Most tree farms keep their fields very well groomed, but there are some things that are beyond the farmer’s control. Be careful of fire-ant mounds, tree stumps, an occasional blackberry vine, uneven ground and sharp saws.

• Go to the farm prepared for a day in the country

Wear comfortable shoes and old clothes. Bring rain gear if the weather is threatening. The “cutter downers” and the “loader uppers” should also have gloves. Don’t forget the camera. It’s best to leave the family dog at home (many farms will prohibit pets). But, if a pet is allowed and must come along; keep him on a leash at all times. Please don’t let him “mark” other people’s trees.

• Equipment to bring Saws are usually provided by the farm operator. Check ahead of time to double check if you need to bring any supplies.

• Pricing

Some farms measure and price trees individually, others sell them by the foot. Ask about the pricing policy before heading out in the field.

Tree size

•

Head out to the field and select the tree that fits your predetermined needs. Check the trunk to be sure that it is sufficiently straight. Keep in mind that pines will usually have, at least, some crook in their trunks. Also check that the tree has a sufficiently long handle to

accommodate your stand.

• Needles

In the fall of the year ALL conifers drop or shed a certain portion of their oldest needles. This is a normal part of the life cycle of the tree and occurs because the tree is preparing itself for winter. Most farms provide shaking or blowing services so that you will depart with a perfectly clean tree.

Cutting your tree down

•

Cutting the tree is easiest as a two person project. The “cutter downer” usually lies on the ground. While the helper holds the bottom limbs up. While the cut is being made, the helper should tug on the tree lightly to ensure that the saw kerf remains open and the saw does not bind. The tugging force should be applied to the side of the tree opposite the cut. In the case of the Leylands, the cut is best made by an attendant at the farm using a chain saw. A back cut should be made first with the final cut coming from the opposite side.

Transportation

•

Bring the tree to the processing area where it will be cleaned and netted. Netting makes transporting and handling the tree substantially easier.

• Now you’re ready to load up and head home to decorate your Real Christmas Tree.

• Follow NCTA’s tips for caring for a Real Christmas Tree, and keep in mind that the freshness of a tree you just cut is greater than that of one from a retail lot. Trees from a Choose-and-Cut farm won’t absorb as much water initially as other trees because it has not had time to dry out, unless you don’t put it into a water holding stand right away.

For more information, visit https:// realchristmastrees.org.

Send us your photos for possible inclusion in Spotted Around Town. Please email your best shot to quadnews@presspubs.com. Please include information about when and where it was taken and who is in the photo.

1-2. Area photographer LeAnn Michael recently captured these winter scenes. —LeAnn Michael, contributed

3. Children from Pat-A-Cake Child Care recently stopped by the Lino Lakes Police Department to say thank you — They even brought some cookies too. — Lino Lakes Police Department, contributed

homes, as it takes away from the variety of housing products offered within the development., Like board members, the City Council wasn’t too interested in adding smaller lots (45 feet) into the mix.

Council Member Tony Cavegn said he was okay with the addition of townhomes and liked the addition of more open space, but was not in favor of the smaller lots. Council Member Michael Ruhland said he also didn’t like the small lots, and Council Member Christopher Lyden said he wasn’t a fan of the addition of smaller lots or townhomes.

Mayor Rob Rafferty said he didn’t want to see more townhomes. “I’m not big on townhomes right there. We have a lot of townhomes on the other side of town,” he said. “I think we have far too many townhomes.”

Metzer said the townhomes are selling very quickly in today’s market, and suggested bumping up the lot size from the proposed 45 feet to 50 feet. Ultimately, Metzer said he would return to council with another proposal in the future.

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

PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEF

Sheriff’s Office swears in 3 deputies

The Anoka County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO) has welcomed two new detention deputies (Spencer Rawlinson and Mario Baltes) and one new patrol deputy (Braden Adams) to the office. During the recent swearing-in ceremony, Sheriff James Stuart said, “At ACSO, we take pride in these events because of the unique roles of law enforcement, the unique challenges facing our profession today, and the uniquely honorable individuals who still respond to a calling in their lives to serve something larger than self.”

CENTERVILLE TIDBITS

involve sewer and stormwater fees to better align with the Metropolitan Council’s flow charges, Statz said.

• The tornado sirens have reupped for 2023, after council approved the Embedded Systems Inc. contract renewal for monthly siren maintenance. The company has serviced city sirens for more than 25 years. The monthly fee for 2023 is $48.43 per month for the two sirens, or an annual total of $581.16, budgeted from the general fund.

• Every year, approximately 58,000 children are ordered into unsupervised contact with physically or sexually abusive parents. In the U.S., 864 children have been murdered by a divorcing or separating parent since 2008. Council passed a resolution declaring November as Family Court Awareness Month. For more information, visit www. familycourtawarenessmonth.org.

• A new Christmas event will take place in town, after council accepted the Parks and Recreation Committee’s recommendation to approve a permit for the Centerville Lions’ Christmas in the Park Event. The event will be held at Laurie LaMotte Park on Dec. 10.

• The five purveyors of liquor and tobacco around the city have also reupped for 2023, after council approved license renewals for those two products. Establishments renewed include JV Summit Corporation, dba Southern Rail (on sale and Sunday); S&B Corporation, dba Kelly’s Corner (on sale, off sale and Sunday); JJ Barrel,

dba Liquor Barrel of Centerville (off sale and tobacco); Ameer’s Tobacco Shop (tobacco) and JP’s Liquor, Wine & Beer (off sale and tobacco).

• The city will be represented in Metro Cities voting, after council authorized city staff to vote on behalf of the city in favor of Metro Cities draft policies. Metro Cities is holding its annual policy adoption meeting on Nov. 17. One vote per mem ber city is allowed.

• Council approved payment No. 2 in the amount of $243,409.04 from the street fund to Bituminous Roadways for the 2022 thin overlay program and City Hall parking lot improvements.

• The city held a Veterans Week ceremony prior to the meeting to honor its veterans. During the meeting, council paused to give thanks for the service provided by veterans, without whose sacrifices the country would not be free today.

The tribute was made in partnership with Beyond the Yellow Ribbon and other organizations, and the city looks forward to doing it again next year, said Assistant City Administrator Athanasia Lewis.

• Council recessed to closed executive session, pursuant to Minnesota Statute Section 13D.05, Subd 3a, for the city administrator performance review.

The council next meets at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 16, to canvass the general election. The next regular council meeting will be held at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 14, at City Hall, 1880 Main St.

Loretta Harding

Heritage collection

CONTRIBUTED

The Anoka County Sherriff’s Office officially swears in three new deputies. Picture (back row, from left) are: Lieutenant Carrie Wood, Sheriff James Stuart and Commander Paul Lenzmeier. (Pictured front row, from left) are: Detention Deputy Spencer Rawlinson, Detention Deputy Mario Baltes and Deputy Braden Adams