CityConnect
Understanding Your City Government
Spring Summer
BlaineEvents.com
Getting the Full Story
As part of the Understanding Your City Government series, we are highlighting how residents can stay informed and engaged on important community topics.
Today, information travels quickly, especially on social media. While community conversations are valuable and encouraged, they do not always include the full picture. Knowing where to find accurate, up-to-date information is key to understanding complex issues and staying informed. In a recent FlashVote survey, 71 percent of respondents said they would like to receive information directly from the City’s newsletter. Articles like this are one way the City is working to provide clear, accurate information to the community. This installment focuses on separating verified facts from assumptions and rumors using the 105th Redevelopment Project as an example.
Project Overview
Most residents are aware of the 105th Redevelopment Project near the National Sports Center. This is an exciting opportunity for Blaine and the region, bringing new retail, entertainment, sports, hospitality, and residential options to the community. As expected with a project of this size, it has generated strong interest, discussion, and questions.
Community engagement is important and encouraged. However, some inaccurate assumptions and rumors have led to confusion or false conclusions. This is a complex, multi-year project, and that complexity can make it challenging to communicate every detail clearly.
Since its inception in 2021, the project has been shaped through collaboration among elected officials, city staff, and real estate, financial, and legal experts. Like most large developments, it has evolved over time and is now reaching the stage where construction can begin.
Project Financing
The City understands that residents have experienced increases in property taxes in recent years. These increases are primarily tied to the City’s continued investment in essential services and infrastructure, including public safety, public works, parks, and roads.
At public meetings, the City has shared information about its role in financing portions of the redevelopment project. To support development, the City is using established tools such as tax abatement and tax increment financing. These tools allow future tax revenue generated within the development to help pay for eligible project costs.
In this case, new construction in the district will generate additional property taxes, paid by the developer, which will be used to repay certain debt obligations. The developer is also responsible for contributing revenue generated within the district. Additional sources, such as special event parking and district generated sales tax revenue, may also be used. These repayment structures are formalized through detailed legal agreements.
Redevelopment of aging areas, like the 105th district, is an important way to grow the City’s commercial tax base. A strong commercial tax base helps generate higher revenue than residential property alone, supports local jobs, and helps offset the overall tax burden on residents while funding services and infrastructure.
Continued on Page 3
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
Erik Thorvig
763-785-6120
EThorvig@BlaineMN.gov
Recycling Calendar
Upcoming Meetings
City Council*
May 4 | May 18
June 1 | June 15
7pm | City Hall Council Chambers
City Council Workshops
May 4 | May 11 | May 18
June 1 | June 8 | June 15
5:30pm | Cloverleaf Farms Room
Natural Resources Conservation Board*
May 19 | June 16
7pm | City Hall Council Chambers
Park Board*
May 26 | June 23
7pm | City Hall Council Chambers
Planning Commission*
May 12 | June 9
7pm | City Hall Council Chambers
As meeting frequency may change depending on the need, please check the City’s website for the most current information.
*Meetings can be seen on cable channel 16 and 799. Meeting agendas and live and on demand videos are available at BlaineMN.gov/Agendas
City Directory
911
Police (non-emergency)
Fire (non-emergency) ...........
763-785-6168
763-786-4436
Public Works After Hours 763-427-1212
City Hall
Mary Ann Young Center .......
Public Works
Building Inspections
City Cable Channel 16
763-784-6700
763-786-9375
763-785-6165
763-785-6170
763-785-6181
City Clerk 763-785-6122
City Manager
763-785-6120
Communications 763-785-6181
Community Standards
Community Outreach
763-785-6146
763-717-2692
Economic Development 763-785-6180
Engineering 763-785-6172
Finance 763-717-2677
Fire Inspections
763-785-6146
Forestry 763-785-6165 Housing
distributed to all residents and businesses. Past copies of the City newsletter are available at BlaineMN.gov/Newsletter
Step Inside Public Safety
Join the Blaine Safety Services Citizens Academy Have you ever wondered what really happens when you call 911? Or how police officers, firefighters, and community standards staff work together to keep Blaine safe? The Blaine Safety Services Citizens Academy offers a unique opportunity to experience it all firsthand.
Held each fall, this nine-week interactive program on Thursday evenings gives residents and those who work in Blaine an inside look at the people, training, and teamwork behind public safety. Participants will engage directly with the Blaine Police Department, SBM Fire Department, and Community Standards through hands-on demonstrations, presentations, and behind-the-scenes experiences.
Get ready for hands-on action! You will experience real public safety tools and training, operate emergency vehicles like a fire truck and squad car, tackle a live fire scenario, and gear up just like firefighters do on the job. Throughout the Academy, you will explore topics like patrol operations, investigations, emergency response, fire suppression, and crime prevention. You will meet the professionals who serve our community and gain a deeper understanding of how decisions are made in real-life situations.
Blaine’s Citizens Academy is designed to build stronger connections between the community and public safety teams while providing an open, engaging environment for conversation and learning. Whether you are simply curious, looking to get more involved, or considering a future in public safety, this program offers a meaningful and memorable experience.
The 2026 Academy runs Thursdays from 6PM to 9PM, September 10 through November 5. Participation is open to anyone 18 or older who lives or works in Blaine.
Space is limited to 25 participants, and the program fills quickly each year, so do not wait to apply.
Registration opens May 1.
To learn more or apply, visit BlaineMN.gov/CitizensAcademy or contact the Community Outreach Team at communityoutreach@blainemn.gov
Join us this fall and discover what it really means to serve and protect.
Understanding Your City Government
Continued from Page 1
Finding a Parking Solution
Parking is a critical component of the district’s success, particularly given existing demand at the National Sports Center. Improving parking infrastructure has been a key focus to support both current use and future growth.
On April 6, 2026, the City Council approved financing for a $15 million parking facility within the district. This marked the final major financing component of the project. From the beginning, the City Council’s goal has been to structure financing so that repayment comes from revenue generated within the district.
Based on financial analysis, some projected district revenues may not be available to fully repay the parking facility debt. Conservative estimates were used, and if revenues exceed expectations, those additional funds could be applied toward repayment. The City is also exploring alternative revenue sources outside of property taxes to support the facility. While property taxes may ultimately be needed, the City Council remains committed to minimizing that impact by considering all available non-property tax funding options first.
Stay Connected
As the project moves forward, the City will continue to share information through multiple channels in a clear and transparent way. Residents are encouraged to stay engaged, ask questions, and seek out verified information when forming opinions about the project. City staff and Councilmembers are always available to provide accurate information and answer questions. Residents can watch Blaine City Council meetings live and on demand at BlaineMN.gov/Agendas and on the Blaine city cable channel on Xfinity. Upcoming agendas and meeting materials are also posted there, allowing residents to review topics and stay informed in advance.
Memorial Day Ceremony
Monday, May 25
Veterans Memorial Park
The community is invited to attend the annual Memorial Day Ceremony on Monday, May 25, 2026, at 2PM at Veterans Memorial Park of Blaine. The memorial is located directly next to Blaine City Hall.
Hosted by the nonprofit organization that supports and maintains the park, this meaningful program honors those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the country. This year’s ceremony will include a special tribute to Richard Childress, a 1985 Blaine High School graduate who lost his life on May 13, 1989, while serving aboard the USS America.
Brigadier General Don Kerr will serve as the keynote speaker, offering reflections on service, sacrifice, and remembrance.
Following the ceremony, attendees are invited to stay for the dedication of a memorial bench honoring United States Navy Lt. Junior Grade Stan Nelson, an Omaha Beach D-Day veteran.
All are encouraged to attend and take part in this important time of remembrance.
Cooking Fire Safety
Cooking is the leading cause of home fires, but a few simple habits can help keep everyone safe. Stay in the kitchen while cooking and keep flammable items – like towels, paper products, and oven mitts – away from the stove. If a grease fire starts, never use water. Instead, turn off the heat and carefully cover the pan with a lid or baking sheet if it’s safe to do so.
Have a fire extinguisher nearby and know how to use it. When in doubt, get out and call 911. Safe cooking starts with staying alert in the kitchen!
SBM Fire is happy to help teach you how to use a fire extinguisher or answer home fire safety questions. Call 763-767-4003 for more information.
2025 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 2025.
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
Lakeside Commons Beach Opens
On May 26
Summer fun returns to Lakeside Commons Park on Tuesday, May 26, as the beach, splash pad, and boathouse officially open for the season.
Residents and visitors are invited to enjoy the sandy beach, cool off at the splash pad, or get out on the water with rentals available through the boathouse. Blaine residents can also take advantage of a free parking pass at the beach.
Lakeside Commons is a popular summer destination for families, offering a great place to relax, play, and take in the outdoors. Plan your visit and kick off the summer season!
For more information, visit BlaineMN.gov/ LakesideCommonsPark.
Highway 65 Project Update
Bids for the Highway 65 project came in under budget, and construction is now moving forward. Early work on a new west side frontage road began in April with tree clearing.
An official groundbreaking is planned for late May as major construction gets underway.
The Minnesota Department of Transportation is leading the project to reconstruct Highway 65 between 97th Avenue and 125th Avenue in Blaine, including interchange, frontage road, and mobility improvements along the corridor.
Residents can stay up to date on construction progress and traffic impacts by signing up for updates from MnDOT’s Highway 65 project page at BlaineMN.gov/MnDOT65
2026 Road Construction Projects
What to Expect this Season
Each year, the City evaluates and prioritizes roadway improvements to maintain safe and reliable transportation infrastructure. As part of the 2026 construction season, several projects are being planned within the City. These City projects are still proposed at this time and will depend on City Council approval and contractor bids coming in within budget before moving forward.
Proposed 2026 City Road Projects
Quincy Area Street Reconstruction Project
This project includes reconstruction of several neighborhood streets near Quincy Park. Work would include removing and replacing pavement, curb and gutter, and making related stormwater and utility improvements where needed.
South Lake Boulevard Project
This project focuses on pavement preservation work, including a mill and overlay, to extend the life of the existing street. Some curb and gutter repairs may also be completed as part of the work.
Meadowbrook Area Street Reconstruction Project
This project includes full reconstruction of several streets in the Meadowbrook area near 125th Avenue and Jefferson Street. Work would involve replacing pavement, curb and gutter, along with necessary utility and drainage improvements.
In addition to City projects, Anoka County will also be doing work in Blaine this summer. 109th Avenue NE and Radisson Road Area Improvements
Anoka County will be completing intersection and corridor improvements, including a new stoplight at 109th Avenue and Tournament Players Parkway/Mankato Street, along with signal and turn lane improvements at 109th Avenue and Radisson Road.
This work is being done in preparation for expected detours related to nearby Highway 65 interchange projects. This project will start in August and last through the end of the construction season. Stay up to date on City road projects at BlaineMN.gov/RoadProjects
Stay Connected with Notify Me
Want to stay up to date on what is happening in Blaine? The City’s free Notify Me service makes it easy to receive updates on the topics that matter most to you.
Residents can sign up for email notifications, text messages, or both, and choose from a wide range of topics, including:
• City news and announcements
• Road construction and project updates
• Parks and recreation program details
• Economic development updates
• Public safety updates
• And more You can customize your subscriptions at any time, so you only receive the information you want. Signing up is quick and easy.
Visit BlaineMN.gov/NotifyMe to create an account and start receiving updates directly from the City. Stay informed. Stay connected.
2026 Election Information
for Blaine Residents
The City of Blaine will participate in the 2026 election cycle, with several local, state, and federal offices appearing on the ballot.
City Council Seats Up for Election
In 2026, three seats on the Blaine City Council will be up for election. Voters will see only one race on their ballot as each council ward will elect one person to represent that ward. These positions are part of the City’s regular election cycle for local offices.
Candidate Filing Period
Individuals interested in running for office must file an affidavit of candidacy between Tuesday, May 19, 2026 and Tuesday, June 2, 2026 at Blaine City Hall.
Election Dates
Primary Election (if needed): Tuesday, August 11, 2026
General Election: Tuesday, November 3, 2026
A primary election will only be held if more than two candidates file for a seat.
Vote Early (Absentee Voting)
In-person absentee voting begins 46 days prior to each election. For the 2026 Primary Election, early voting will begin on Friday, June 26, 2026, and will take place at Blaine City Hall. This option allows residents to cast their ballot before Election Day. Additional details on hours and general election early voting are available at BlaineMN.gov/Elections. Register to Vote
Residents can register to vote online, by mail, or in person on Election Day through the Minnesota Secretary of State’s office.
For more information or if you are interested in serving as an election judge, visit BlaineMN.gov/Elections
Rain Barrel and Compost Bin
Coming this June
On June 13, the Recycling Association of Minnesota (RAM) is partnering with local governments, soil and watershed districts, nonprofits, and other organizations to help residents conserve water and reduce waste. Together, we are offering highquality rain barrels and compost bins made from 100 percent recycled materials—all at a low cost to area residents.
A local distribution event will take place at the Anoka County Highway Department, making it easy for residents to pick up their items. These rain barrels and compost bins are a great way to save money, protect our waterways, and keep valuable organic material out of landfills.
Residents of Rice Creek Watershed District and Coon Creek Watershed District are eligible for an additional $20 discount on a rain barrel by using the special code RCWD2026 or CCWD2026 at checkout. Not sure if you qualify?
Check your eligibility at BlaineMN.gov/RCWDCheckEligibility
Preordering is required, so don’t wait!
For more information and to reserve your rain barrel or compost bin, visit RecycleMinnesota.org/Rain-Barrel-Compost-Bin-Sale/
Take advantage of this opportunity to make a positive impact on your yard and the environment. Together, we can conserve water, reduce waste, and protect Minnesota’s natural resources!
8am — noon
3rd Saturday of Each Month
Drop-Off Location
Recycle Technologies Enter at 1525 - 99th Lane NE
The City of Blaine sponsors a recycling drop-off day the third Saturday of each month. Participants do not need to be a Blaine resident to bring items to the drop-off day. Please note, no garbage will be accepted. Follow the signs for the entrance and staff directions through the drop-off process. The recycling drop-off day is funded by Anoka County and Minnesota SCORE funds (Select Committee on Recycling and the Environment).
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 and vehicle batteries.
See a complete list of fees at BlaineMN.gov/ RecyclingSaturdays
Randy’s Environmental Services 763-972-3335
RandysEnvironmental Services.com
Randy’s offers free paper shredding. Please note, there may be long wait times for shredding. Four box or bag limit for paper shredding.
Bike Collection for Bikes4KidsMN.org
Drop off any size bicycle. Bikes will be refurbished or have their parts used in refurbishing other bikes. Bikes are then donated to people in need. 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 in April-October.
Walters Recycling & Refuse 763-780-8464
WaltersRecycling.com/Blaine Contact Walters to report missed garbage, recycling, or yard waste pickup.
City Recycling Information 763-785-6141
BlaineMN.gov/Recycle
RecConnect Summer 2026
Summer registration is 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.
Birding Hike
all ages
Bird watching 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. This class is taught by Anoka County Wargo Nature Center Naturalists. Max 20. Pioneer Park
Thursday, May 7, 6-7:30pm
$10/individual or $15/family
Blaine Wetland Sanctuary Parking Lot
Tuesday, May 19, 9-10:30am
$10/individual or $15/family
For more information, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register
Mayer Arts
all camps held at Aquatore Park Bandshell, ages 5 to 12
The mission of Mayer Arts is to not only provide training for those who are serious about learning, but also to offer classes that are tons of fun. They teach proper technique, terminology, body awareness, and an appreciation for the arts.
Glinda & Friends for Good Musical
ages 5 to 8
Monday-Thursday, July 6-9, 9am-noon
$134 res; $144 nr
More information about Parks and Recreation is available at 763-785-6164 or in the
KPop Demon Hunters Musical ages 7 to 12
Monday-Thursday, July 6-9, 1-4pm
$134 res; $144 nr
For complete descriptions, fees, dates and locations, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register.
Tech Academy
all classes held at Blaine City Hall Cloverleaf Room B
3D Printing: Jewelry Fabrications & Art
ages 7 to 12
Monday-Thursday, June 15-18, 9am-noon
$160 res; $170 nr
Video Production: YouTube Sports, IG
Reels and TikTok
ages 8 to 13
Monday-Thursday, June 22-25, 9am-noon
$160 res; $170 nr
Tech Tac Toe
D&D Steam Camp ages 7 to 12
Monday-Thursday, June 29-July 2, 9am-noon
$160 res; $170 nr
For complete class descriptions, visit BlaineParks.com/Register
all classes held at Tom Ryan Park Shelter, ages 6 to 11
Survive the Wild! Outdoor Engineers
ages 6 to 10
Monday-Thursday, June 8-11, 9-11:55am
$165 res; $175 nr
Pet Lab: Amazing Robotic Critters
ages 6 to 10
Monday-Thursday, June 8-11, 1-4pm
$165 res; $175 nr
SkyTech Explorers: Drones & Rockets in Action!
ages 7 to 11
Monday-Thursday, June 29-July 2, 9-11:55am
$165 res; $175 nr
Turbo Builders: RC Racing Lab with Legos ages 5 to 9
Monday-Thursday, June 29-July 2, 1-4pm
$165 res; $175 nr
For complete class descriptions, 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. Sports offered this summer for ages 2-12. Flag Football; Soccer, Soccer Tots; Volleyball; Track & Field; Basketball; Mini-Hawk-T-ball ; Beginning Golf; Pickleball; Baseball Tot; Cheerleading
For complete details including descriptions, fees, dates, times and locations, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register.
QC Dance
all classes held at QC Dance, 9967 Ulysses Street NE, Blaine, ages 0 to 11
Tummy Time; Mommy & Me Dance; Kidlets: Intro to Dance; Kidance: Intro to Dance; Hippity Hop; Hip Hop; Dancing Kids; Mini-Dance Team; Royal Prince and Princess Ball.
For complete descriptions, fees, dates and locations, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register
Youth Sports
ages 3 to 10
Our youth sports programs begin the week of June 8 and run through July 30. Our expertly trained, staff will make sure your child has a memorable experience!
Programs include: Sports Sampler; Preschool T-Ball; Evening T-Ball, Parent/Child T-Ball; Baseball: Coach Pitch; Softball: Coach Pitch; Little Feats Soccer; Recreational Soccer
For complete details including descriptions, fees, dates, times and locations, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register.
Tenicity Tennis
ages 5 to 16
Tenicity is led by Head Coach, Harsh Mankad, a Gopher Hall of Fame inductee, former ATP professional player, and USTA award-winning tennis program leader. All of our coaches are personally trained and certified by Harsh to ensure they effectively teach stroke development and fundamentals in line with Tenicity’s proven developmental system!
Youth Beginner Group Lessons
Monday & Wednesdays, June 8-July 15
ages 5 to 8: 5-6pm
ages 9 to 12: 6-7pm
ages 13 to 16: 7-8pm
$198/session
Youth Beginner Group Lessons
Sundays, June 7-July 15
ages 5 to 8: 5-6pm
ages 9 to 12: 6-7pm
ages 13 to 16: 7-8pm
$99/session
For more detailed information and program description, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register
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. Prizes will be awarded to first, second, and third place. Play begins May 3, although players can be added throughout the season.
May 3 - August 2
$30 res; $35 nr
For more information, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register.
Pickleball Opportunities
all classes held at Lexington Athletic Complex - Pickleball Courts
Intro to Pickleball
You will leave this class knowing basic rules and scoring, terminology, some fundamentals, court positioning, and receive information on next steps on where to play and more. Paddles and balls will be provided. Max 24. Please only sign up for one session as all classes cover the same content.
Saturday, May 23, 1-3pm
Saturday, June 6, noon-2pm
$30
Pickleball Mini Clinic
Pickeball 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 24, 1-3pm
Saturday, June 20, 4-6pm
$45
Intro to Pickleball required. This three-hour clinic will include two hours of learning basic fundamentals –proper grip and stroke techniques for serves, returns, volleys, dinks, and footwork. The third hour will be coached game play. Paddles and balls will be provided.
Sunday, June 7, noon-3pm, $60
For more information, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register.
Zumba
all classes held at QC Dance Studio, 9967 Ulysses Street NE, Blaine Love to dance? Join the party! 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. This class will be cardio focused, muscle building and fun workout. Max 12.
Session 1: Wednesdays, June 3-24, 7:15-8pm
Session 2: Wednesdays, July 8-29, 7:15-8pm
$40 res; $44 nr
For fees and dates, visit BlaineParks.com/Register
Playnet and Playnet Junior
A playground program is coming to a neighborhood park near you. The Cosmic Fun Vehicle 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 10-July 30
Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday
Morning or Afternoon
Playnet - ages 3/12 to 5
$95 res; $ 105 nr
Playnet Junior - Kindergarten to
Grade 5
$105 res; $115 nr
For more information, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register
Summer
