The weather is warming, the birds are chirping, and the grass is turning green. We all know what that means, it is time for road construction. This summer, Blaine residents and visitors can expect several projects on area roadways.
City Projects
The city projects will be a combination of full roadway replacements and small projects that will replace only the top layer of roadway to extend the life of the road. Some projects will include installing or repairing concrete curb and gutter and storm sewer improvements and minor water main work will occur in certain areas.
Project Locations
• Southwest area north of County Road 10 to 89th Avenue Lakes Parkway from Radisson Road to Rendova Street
• Baltimore Street between 93rd Avenue and 99th Avenue
View the construction project map to see all the roadways receiving upgrades and repairs at BlaineMN.gov/ConstructionProjects
Spring Summer
County Projects
Anoka County will be doing mill and overlay projects on three different sections of county roads in Blaine. These projects will remove the top layer of roadway and replace it with a new layer. This will extend the life of the street and is typically a much quicker project taking only a few weeks.
Project Locations
• Radisson Road between 105th Avenue and Main Street
• 109th Avenue NE between Highway 65 and Foley Boulevard
• University Avenue NE between 92nd Lane and 97th Avenue
Stay up to date on road construction projects by signing up for the Construction Update at BlaineMN.gov/NotifyMe
ICPOET Programs Provide New Opportunities in Policing
The Blaine Police Department has three new officers that recently completed the Intensive Comprehensive Peace Officer Education and Training Program (ICPOET). The ICPOET program is funded through a grant from the MN Department of Public Safety, Office of Justice Programs, to assist Minnesota law enforcement agencies with hiring police officers.
The ICPOET appropriation is designed to recruit candidates who may be interested in a career transition into law enforcement. Blaine has been able to put multiple cadets through the program thanks to the grant and savings from vacant police department positions.
Eligible candidates already hold a two or fouryear degree from a regionally accredited college or university. The grant pays for the candidate’s salary and tuition while they obtain the required Professional Peace Officer Certification. The education component is offered at Alexandria Technical and Community College and Hennepin Technical College.
The first three ICPOET cadets have completed the program and are now sworn officers. Another Blaine ICPOET cadet is now in the education phase of the program.
Blaine City Hall
10801 Town Square Drive NE Blaine, MN 55449
763-784-6700
Communications@BlaineMN.gov
City Council
MAYOR
Tim Sanders
763-203-3286
TSanders@BlaineMN.gov
WARD 1
Chris Ford
612-494-8275
CFord@BlaineMN.gov
Tom Newland
651-271-3341
TNewland@BlaineMN.gov
WARD 2
Leslie Larson
612-489-9651
LeslieLarson@BlaineMN.gov
Jess Robertson
763-607-2233
JRobertson@BlaineMN.gov
WARD 3
Terra Fleming
612-513-5231
TFleming@BlaineMN.gov
Chris Massoglia
612-524-9447
CMassoglia@BlaineMN.gov
CITY MANAGER
Michelle Wolfe
763-785-6120
MWolfe@BlaineMN.gov
Recycling Calendar
Upcoming Meetings
City Council*
May 5 | May 19
June 2 | June 16
7pm | City Hall Council Chambers
City Council Workshops
May 5 | May 12 | May 19
June 2 | June 9 | June 16
5:30pm | Cloverleaf Farms Room
Natural Resources Conservation Board*
June 17
7pm | City Hall Council Chambers
Park Board*
May 22 | June 24
7pm | City Hall Council Chambers
Planning Commission*
May 13 | June 10
7pm | City Hall Council Chambers
*Meetings can be seen on cable channel 16 and 799. Meeting agendas and live and on demand videos are available at BlaineMN.gov/Agendas
Connect with your community and sign up for topics that interest you BlaineMN.gov/NotifyMe
A Crime Prevention Partnership BlaineMN.gov/ CommunityConnect
CityConnect is published bimonthly by the City of Blaine and distributed to all residents and businesses. Past copies of the city newsletter are available at BlaineMN.gov/Newsletter
Outdoor Safety Tips
from Blaine Safety Services
Spring and summer in Minnesota are filled with long days of outdoor fun. While enjoying the season, it is important to keep safety top of mind. The Spring Lake Park, Blaine, Mounds View (SBM) Fire Department encourages residents to take simple precautions that can prevent accidents and save lives.
Grilling Safety
According to the National Fire Protection Association, an average of 10,600 home fires are started by grills each year. July is the peak month for grill fires, but these incidents happen year-round. To reduce the risk of fire:
• Use charcoal grills outdoors only.
• Position grills away from siding, deck railings, and overhanging trees.
• Keep a three-foot safety zone around the grill for children and pets.
• Clean grease and fat buildup from grills and trays after each use.
• Never leave a grill unattended while in use.
Water Safety
Whether at the beach, pool, or lake, water safety is critical. For the age group 5-14, drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury death, following motor vehicle crashes, according to the CDC. To stay safe around water:
• Always wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket while boating or paddling.
• Children under 12 are required to wear life jackets on public waters.
• Never swim alone, and supervise children at all times.
• Be aware of local water conditions, drop-offs, or underwater vegetation.
• Avoid alcohol and certain medications when swimming or supervising swimmers.
Emergency Response
In the event of a water emergency, time is critical. If someone is not making forward progress, appears vertical without movement, or is face down and unresponsive, they may be in danger of drowning. Remove the person from the water if it is safe to do so, call 911 immediately and begin CPR. An automated external defibrillator (AED) should be used if available. Taking a CPR course and updating your skills regularly can help you respond quickly and effectively in an emergency.
Department Spotlight
Mary Ann Young Center
The team at the Mary Ann Young Center(MAYC) works hard every day to create a welcoming, connected space for Blaine’s older adults. Whether it is a hot lunch in the dining room or an afternoon card game, you will find staff members encouraging seniors to engage, build friendships, and try something new. This group loves to pay attention to the little things, step in where needed, and find creative ways to make each day at the MAYC meaningful. From wellness classes to tech help to caregiver support, the programs offered at the MAYC are built around what matters most to the people they serve. What makes this team stand out is not just what they do, but how they do it. With kindness, patience, and a genuine commitment to making a difference. Like puzzle pieces, each staff member brings something unique, and together they create something special.
To learn more about the Mary Ann Young Center, visit BlaineMN.gov/MAYC.
Memorial Day
Monday, May 26
The entire community is invited to the Blaine Veterans Memorial at Tom Ryan Park for a Memorial Day Ceremony. The ceremony will include the dedication of the Fall Soldier Monument, the newest monument in the park. Memorial Day Ceremony Monday, May 26
2-3:30PM Tom Ryan Park 10802 Town Square Drive NE
Hydrant Flushing
The Public Works Department will be performing annual fire hydrant flushing the weeks of May 5 and 12. This process removes any sediment that may have settled in water mains. Hydrant flushing also allows crews to make sure hydrants are in proper working order. Crews will be working citywide each day from 7:30AM until 3PM to flush all hydrants. Hydrant flushing will create periods of low water pressure, with the disturbance in the water main potentially causing dark water. Although safe for human consumption, the discolored water may stain clothes, Residents are asked to refrain from washing clothes between the hours of 7:30AM to 4:30PM or until hydrants in the area have been flushed. Please check for water discoloration before washing. If you experience discolored water, run cold water for 10 minutes to help clear the lines.
Pictured Left to Right, Jill Marinan, John Grant, Amanda Alms, Jim Grant, and Ann Genosky
2024 Drinking Water Report
By law, all community water systems are required to distribute their drinking water report to customers before July 1 of each year. This annual report, known as the Consumer Confidence Report (CCR), includes the results of water monitoring conducted on the City’s drinking water from the previous year, in this case 2024.
A paper copy of this report is available upon request.
To view the report online, visit BlaineMN.gov/DrinkingWater.
For more information, contact the Public Works Department at 763-785-6165 or visit BlaineMN.gov/PublicWorks
Bike Helmet Fitting and Sale
A properly fitted helmet is the most effective way to prevent a head injury resulting from a bicycle crash. SBM Fire is hosting their annual bike helmet fitting and sale event on Saturday, May 10 from 9-11AM at SBM Station 3 – 11920 Ulysses St NE, Blaine, MN 55434. Various helmet colors and sizes for the whole family priced at $15 each! Cash or check will be accepted. Bring helmets from home to have them fitted for free.
Call Ashley Krepsky at SBM with questions at 763-231-1802.
Water Tower Getting a Major League Makeover
Blaine Baseball Complex Tower
The water tower near the Blaine Baseball Complex is stepping up to the plate for a fresh new look. After years of braving the elements, the tower is set to get a complete facelift this spring, including a brand-new updated design.
The average lifespan of exterior paint on a water tower is 15 to 20 years. Crews will start by removing the existing paint and repairing any damage to the exterior. Then, a new design will be applied with two goals in mind.
First, the tower will reflect the City of Blaine’s current branding. All current water towers in the City still feature the previous logo and style.
Second, the tower’s primary color will shift to blue. The darker color will help disguise dust and grime, which show up easily on white surfaces. It is also a win for baseball fans, the blue backdrop will make it easier for players and spectators to follow the ball during games at the BBC.
The refurbishment is expected to be completed later this year.
Proposed Trail Expansion to Blaine Wetland Sanctuary
May is National Wetlands Month, a time to recognize the importance of wetlands and the role they play in water quality, habitat protection, and recreation. In that spirit, the City of Blaine is exploring a potential trail expansion project within the Blaine Wetland Sanctuary.
The proposed project would add approximately 2.9 miles of new boardwalks, bridges, and gravel trails. The goal of the project would be to improve access to the sanctuary and connect several nearby parks and existing trail systems. A community open house on the project was held in late April.
If approved, the expansion would include four segments, linking a future trailhead on 109th Avenue to North Oaks West Park, Sanctuary Preserve Park, and existing trails across from Lexington Athletic Complex and East Lake Park. The project would be constructed in phases, with work anticipated to begin in early winter during frozen ground conditions to minimize environmental impact. The overall project would take multiple years to complete.
The Blaine Wetland Sanctuary is a unique natural area made up of more than 500 acres of wetland and upland habitat. It offers a place for passive recreation and opportunities to experience Minnesota’s native landscape.
For more information on the sanctuary, visit BlaineMN.gov/BlaineWetlandSanctuary
Reduce Stormwater Pollution
Stormwater is a major source of water pollution, but what is stormwater?
Stormwater refers to rainwater and melted snow that flow overland, rather than soaking into the ground. Stormwater can carry pollutants from roads, driveways, parking lots, and lawns into our local waterways via storm drains. Storm drains play an important role in protecting our infrastructure from flooding, but they can also carry pollutants such as trash, sediment, fertilizers, and pesticides into our waterways. Because of this, state standards require that cities have ordinances stating that anything other than water going into the street or storm drains is illegal. In Blaine, this requirement is addressed through City Ordinance. Examples of prohibited actions include:
• Sending spilled fertilizer, paint, oil, or grease into the street gutter Blowing grass clippings or leaves to the curb
• Throwing a bag of animal waste into a storm drain
If you see spilling, dumping, or disposal of materials into a storm drain or street, report it immediately to the Public Works Department at 763-785-6165 or PW@BlaineMN.gov, or call Anoka County non-emergency at 763-427-1212. If you think it is a hazardous material emergency, call 911. The fire department handles emergency responses for contamination and spills.
Be part of the pollution solution! Adopt a storm drain at mn.adopt-a-drain.org Learn more about stormwater pollution online at, cooncreekwd.org/stormwater101 Information provided by Coon Creek Watershed District.
Lawn Sprinkling Restrictions
Year-Round, Odd-Even Sprinkling Days, No Sprinkling Between 10am and 6pm
Every year the City implements time and date restrictions for lawn sprinkling. In 2025 the following will be in place:
• Year-round, odd-even sprinkling. Residents with an even numbered address can water on even number days, Residents with an odd numbered address can water on odd number days.
• From May 15 until September 15, no sprinkling is allowed between 10AM and 6PM.
The City is committed to working with residents to educate everyone on the importance of following the lawn sprinkling regulations to help protect the City’s water supply. In the past, staff communicated with the highest water users in the City to determine if they were aware of the sprinkling regulations in place. While staff will always attempt to work with residents, citations can also be issued for violations of the lawn sprinkling ordinance. Repeat offenders will see higher fines and unpaid fines will incur late fees and may also be collected as a part of property taxes. Please do your part by following the sprinkling restrictions. For more information, visit BlaineMN.gov/LawnSprinkling
CPR and Heart Health
CPR is an emergency lifesaving procedure performed when the heart stops beating. According to the American Heart Association, every year, 350,000 people die from cardiac arrest in the United States. Did you know immediate CPR can double or triple chances of survival after cardiac arrest?
High- quality CPR should be performed by anyone – including bystanders following these five critical components:
1. Minimize interruptions in chest compressions
2. Provide compressions of adequate rate and depth
3. Avoid leaning on the victim between compressions
4. Ensure proper hand placement
5. Avoid excessive ventilation
If you or someone you know is interested in taking a CPR class, visit sbmfire.org to find the upcoming dates and times of training opportunities.
February - December
Drop-Off Location
Recycle Technologies Enter at 1525 - 99th Lane NE
The City of Blaine sponsors a recycling drop-off day on the third Saturday of each month. Participants do not need to be Blaine residents to bring items to the drop-off day.
Please note that no garbage will be accepted. Follow the signs for the entrance and staff directions through the drop-off process.
Recycle Technologies
763-559-5130
RecycleTechnologies.com
Cash or Check Only
Mattresses, box springs, appliances, fluorescent lamps, electronics, rechargeable batteries, and tires are some of the items collected. Free items include scrap metal, vehicle batteries, and paper shredding. See a complete list of fees and items at BlaineMN.gov/ RecyclingSaturdays.
Free paper shredding is offered at these events through SCORE Grant Funding. Please note that there may be long wait times for shredding. There is a four-box or bag limit for paper shredding.
Bike Collection for Bikes4KidsMN.org
Give back by dropping off used bicycles. Bikes will be refurbished or have their parts used in other bikes. Bikes are then donated. There is no charge to drop off a bike. Bikes for Kids is part of the Robert & Wilma Burbach Bike Foundation. Bike collection is available from April through October.
City Recycling Information 763-785-6141
BlaineMN.gov/Recycle
RecConnect Summer 2025
Summer registration is now open. Check out all the great program offerings at BlaineParks.com/Register
Sign up for the RecConnect online at BlaineMN.gov/NotifyMe, and choose News: BlaineParks.
Stand Up Paddle Boarding
ages 12 & up
Fun, easy, cool, and a great workout. Picture a beefed up surfboard that is stable and a long canoe paddle to propel yourself. Class sizes are very small and the instruction is short and easy so most of our time will be out on the water. No experience necessary. Class held at Lakeside Commons Park next to the boathouse. Participants under 18 must have parent or guardian sign a waiver before class.
Wednesday, July 2, 6-7:30pm
Thursday, July 31, 6-7:30pm
Tuesday, August 12, 6-7:30pm
$30 res; $44 nr
For more information, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register.
QC Dance
ages 0 to 11, All classes held at QC Dance Studio, 9967 Ulysses Street NE, Blaine Tummy Time; Mommy & Me Dance; Kidlets: Intro to Dance; Kidance: Intro to Dance; Dancing Kids; Hippity Hop; Hip Hop; Mini-Dance Team; Royal Prince and Princess Ball; Dance Team Prep and Technique. For more information on dates, times and fees, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register
Tech Tac Toe
ages 6 to 10, All classes held at Tom Ryan Park Shelter
Robotic Pet Lab:
Build Your Own Pet Family
ages 6-10, June 16-19, 9-11:55am
$153 res; $163 nr
More information about
More information about Parks and Recreation is available at 763-785-6164 or in the
Kids vs. Wild:
The Ultimate STEM Survival Challenge
ages 6-10, June 16-19, 1-4pm
$153 res; $163 nr
For a complete class description, visit BlaineParks.com/Register
Tech Academy
All Classes held at Blaine City Hall Community Room
Junior Engineering
ages 5-9, June 9-12, 9am-noon
$135 res; $150 nr
3D Printing: Poke Monsters
ages 8-13, June 9-12, 1-4pm
$ 140 res; $154 nr
Video Production: YouTube Shorts, IG Reels & TikTok
ages 9-14, June 23-26, 9am-noon
$140 res; $154 nr
3D & VR Coding
ages 7-11, June 23-26, 1-4pm
$140 res; $154 nr
For a complete class description, ages, dates, times and fees, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register
Skyhawks
ages 2 to 12
The progression of camps and programs, led by expert staff, are geared toward youth looking for a sport introduction or those who want to refine and master their sport specific skills. Skyhawks Sports has proven to be the leader in youth sports since 1979. Skyhawks goes the extra mile to focus on safety and has a longstanding proven safety track record.
Flag Football; First Down Tots; Soccer, Soccer Tots; Volleyball; Track & Field; Basketball; Hoopster Tots; MultiSport; Mini-Hawk; Golf; Beginning Golf; Pickleball; Baseball; Baseball Tot; Cheerleading For complete details including descriptions, fees, dates, times and locations, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register
Youth Sports
ages 3 to 10
Youth sports programs begin the week of June 9 and run through August 8. Our expertly trained, hired staff will make sure your child has a memorable experience!
For complete details including descriptions, fees, dates, times and locations, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register
Tenicity Tennis
ages 5 to 12, held at Jim Peterson Athletic Complex
This program is led by former Wimbledon player, winner of ATP Professional titles, and U.S. Collegiate Division 1 National Champion, Harsh Mankad. Harsh has over 10 years of experience leading tennis programs and developing players including to the Division 1 college level. His team of coaches are trained in the program’s methods to deliver lessons that create fun, positive, and engaging learning experiences.
Beginner Group Lessons
Youth Beginner Tennis Camps
ages 5 to 7, Monday-Thursday June 9-12, June 16-19, June 23-26
12:15-1:15pm, $75/week
ages 8 to 12 or 13 to 16, Monday-Thursday June 9-12, June 16-19, June 23-26 9am-noon, $222/week
More tennis coming in July and August. For more information on Tenicity tennis, visit Tenicity.com Register at BlaineParks.com/Register or call 763-785-6164.
Adult Co-Rec Tennis League
This is an informal approach to organized competition using a ladder style format. The league will place players of similar skills together and also allow them to play opponents who are more skilled. Matches will be scheduled by the players at an agreed upon location and time. A weekly ladder will be sent to all of the players to keep them informed of what position they are in. First, second, and third place trophies will be awarded in each league. Register by May 1, although players can be added throughout the season. There will not be a separate men’s and women’s league this year.
May 4 - August 3
$25 res; $30 nr
Bach 2 Rock
Bach to Rock offers group lessons in a “team sport” style. Curriculum includes theory and reading music as well as playing. All classes are held at the Bach to Rock studio, 13030 Riverdale Drive, NW, Coon Rapids.
For details regarding type of lessons, dates, times and fees, and to register, visit our website at BlaineParks.com/Register or call the Parks and Recreation office at 763-785-6164
Birding Hike
all ages
For more information, visit BlaineParks.com/Register
Birdwatching is a fun way to build observational skills, get outside, and start learning how to identify the dozens of different birds that live on the wetland. Class is taught by the Anoka County Wargo Nature Center Naturalists.
Blaine Wetland Sanctuary Parking Lot
Thursday, May 8, 6-7:30pm
$5/child or $10/family
Pioneer Park
Tuesday, May 20, 9-10:30am
$5/child or $10/family
For more information and to register, visit BlaineParks.com/Register or call 763-785-6164
Learn and Play Pickleball
Lexington Athletic Complex Pickleball Courts
Intro to Pickleball
Come learn how to play pickleball with top instructors from the North Star Pickleball Association. Whether you have never played, or only tried it a few times, this is the class for you. North Star Pickleball Association instructors will cover the basics of pickleball rules, terminology, primary skills, coordination, and how to get connected on where to play. Please wear comfortable clothes, athletic shoes, and bring your own paddle if you have one. Please only sign up for one session as all classes cover the same content.
Saturday, May 3, 1-3pm Sunday, June 8, 3-5pm Saturday, May 24, 1-3pm Saturday, July 26, 3-5pm
$30
Zumba
Held at QC Dance Studio
9967 Ulysses Street, Blaine
Fundamentals 101
Intro to Pickleball is a prerequisite for this class. In this two-hour class, beginners will have the opportunity to continue to learn fundamentals of pickleball – proper grip and stroke techniques for serves, returns, volleys, dinks, and footwork. Paddles and balls will be provided.
Sunday, May 25, 1-3pm Sunday, June 21, 3-5pm
$30
For more information and to register, visit BlaineParks.com/Register or call 763-785-6164.
Playnet
ages 3 1/2 to 10
A playground program is coming to a neighborhood park near you. The Cosmic Fun Van will be landing with Blaine’s highly trained recreation crew, taking kids on a quest for the best summer on Earth. This supervised and structured program focuses on fun, physical fitness, socialization, and exploring creativity by: offering ageappropriate active games and sport related activities; encouraging kids to meet other kids in the neighborhood; and providing planned arts and crafts projects and drama activities based on weekly themes. No make-up dates for cancellations due to weather.
June 14 - August 5
Monday/Wednesday OR Tuesday/ Thursday, Morning or Afternoon Some sessions are full.
For available park locations and dates, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register
This specialty course is designed for those just starting their journey to a fit and healthy lifestyle or the older active adult. Zumba fitness is for everyone, all shapes and sizes, and just about any age. This class allows you to have fun while safely losing pounds and inches. With Zumba, the fun comes first, and the physical benefits follow. The class will be a fat burning, body shaping fun workout.
Session 1: Wednesdays, May 21 – June 11, 7:15-8:15pm
Session 2: Wednesdays, June 18-July 16, 7:15-8pm
Session 4: Wednesdays, July 23-August 20, 7:15-8pm
