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PUBLIC WORKS FACILITY: Discussions continue PAGE 3

CLPD will welcome new chief next month

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM LEAD EDITOR

PAUL DOLS | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Watching the wheels Mary Ecker waves to passing vehicles as a parade in honor of her 80th birthday rolls past her home in Withrow Saturday, June 27. The parade featured dozens of decorated vehicles and was led by an honor guard from the Hugo American Legion. Find more photos on page 16.

After a decade of serving the community, Centennial Lakes Police Department’s (CLPD) Chief James Coan will hand over the reins to a new chief.

Twenty-seven people applied for the position. That number was narrowed down to 18, then six, then one. In a special meeting on Thursday, June 25, the police governing board approved a contract with James Mork to take over when Chief Coan retires next month.

“Ultimately, all six (finalists) were excellent. We had six quality candidates.

Quite honestly, any of the six would be fine in leading our department, but I think Jim will be a very good fit for our department,” said City Administrator Patrick Antonen at the June 23 council meeting. “We like going with the name Jim,” he joked. “We have a great department and I think Jim Mork is going to keep Jim Coan’s legacy going.”

Coan said he is happy for Mork, as it was a competitive selection process with well-qualified candidates.

“I am confident that Jim will be very successful here as chief. He has great experience and credentials for the job.

More importantly, Jim Mork has the leadership style and demeanor that will make him a very good chief of police,” Coan said. “Jim is highly respected in SEE NEW CHIEF, PAGE 7

Park board dives into Lions Park discussions HUGO — Splash pad or no splash pad?

That topic seemed to dominate much of the Lions Park project discussion at the Parks, Recreation and Open Space Commission’s last meeting June 17.

The City Council authorized a feasibility study for Lions Park back in April. The item is also one of the many tasks the council listed in its 2020 goals.

Landscape architect Candace Amberg, of WSB, has been updating the master plan that was designed for the park back in 2015 to make sure it aligns with the current commission’s vision

OOF NEW R S! NT DISCOU

and more accurately reflects what is going on around Lions Park, including the Hugo Gardens development. That project is proposed to include seven apartment buildings with 12 units each just west of Lions Park.

Amberg presented three options to the park board as part of the ongoing feasibility study.

The options greatly range in cost, depending on the features/amenities the commission and City Council decide are most important. Option one closely follows the master plan that was created in 2015. Option two removes the splash pad and creates a larger playground area tailored as an all-inclusive playground for different types of SEE LIONS PARK, PAGE 10

SUBMITTED

Here is one of the possible options for a design of the future Lions Park in Hugo.

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The solar spread in the north metro

BY KATIE LEIBEL CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Solar energy has been around for a while, but the panels in our community sure haven’t.

Many residents are now switching to solar energy, and for good reason. In 2018, White Bear Lake held a solar energy information session where representatives from solar and energy organizations spoke about the benefits of solar.

The event was purely informational, but those who attended had the opportunity to join other homeowners who wanted to work together to purchase solar and receive a group discount.

“From my experience, it’s an item that a lot of people have wanted to do for a long time,” said Bobby King of Solar United Neighbors, one of the organizations that participated in the session.

“There’s interest in being more self-sufficient, and also leaving a smaller carbon footprint.”

But the information session wasn’t the only thing that has pushed people to switch to using solar power in recent years. Right now, it’s cheaper to install solar power: After 2020, the federal solar tax credit for doing so will decrease from 26% of the system’s cost to 22%.

“The incentives that the state of Minnesota and the federal government are offering are decreasing and going away. Those incentives are on a fi rstcome, fi rst-served basis. We’re encouraging people to take advantage of them because they’re available,” said Michael Allen, owner of All Energy Solar, a St. Paul family-owned company celebrating its 10th year in business.

Allen believes solar is a better overall product than normal electricity. He said it’s safer and less expensive.

“Our current version of electricity is burning gas or coal that omits harmful gases into our environment. That same electricity can be done with zero emissions,” he said.

Two homeowners, one in Lino Lakes and one in White Bear Lake, recently made the switch with All Energy Solar and gave glowing reviews.

“It’s just something I grew up with, that sort of intrinsic value of lowering our carbon footprint,” said White Bear Lake resident Kyle Manley.

Jennifer Rooney echoed that view. Rooney, a Lino Lakes resident, has children and wanted to reduce her own carbon emissions for the future.

Although the two homeowners love their product, Allen believes that there are a lot of myths about solar energy that discourage people from investigating it as an option.

Myth No. 1: Solar is too expensive.

According to Allen, in the majority of cases solar is less expensive than buying from the electric company. It provides a lot of value to a homeowner.

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An array of solar panels recently installed by All Energy Solar gather energy on the roof of a home in Lino Lakes.

Rooney was told that the panels would add 4% to her home value.

“Electricity prices are continuing to rise, and if you want to stop renting your electricity and start owning it, now is the time to do that,” Allen said.

King echoed this thought.

“Depending on your electric bill and suitability of your roof, solar will pay for itself in about 10 years. Solar panels are guaranteed for 25 years, and they’ll likely last more than 25 years,” he said.

Both Manley and Rooney agreed that solar was no more expensive than electricity.

Both homeowners secured loans to pay for their panels. Rooney obtained a 12-year loan for her panels, while Manley’s will be paid off in eight years.

“I would say once the panels are paid off that it’s going to be cheaper. Our monthly loan (payment) is going to be about what our electricity bill was, and then when it’s done we’ll just be making money,” Manley said.

Rooney decided to take a slightly different approach.

“We opted to put additional panels on because the electric company has to pay us back at the end of the year (for energy) that we don’t use,” she said. “If I had opted not to put the additional panels, on we’d be paying $11 more than our usual bill.”

According to both homeowners, all the extra power that their panels generate goes back into the grid to power places around them. This means that their energy company is obligated to pay them back for the extra energy they generate.

“Right now, I’ve got a monthly payment that’s like $100 a month for eight years,” Manley said.

Neither Manley nor Rooney have to pay an electric bill; they’re just paying off their loans.

Once the loans are paid off, they may even be pulling in some money from their panels.

Rooney found the savings to be huge, as well.

“The numbers were just astounding. If we did nothing, our cost of electricity would be $60,509 over 25 years,” she said, noting that those numbers also accounted for inflation.

Not only was it affordable, but cost have gone down since solar panels were fi rst popularized.

“The cost has just plummeted. Since 2010, the cost has gone down (by) 70%,” King said.

Myth No. 2: Solar panels are ugly

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Solar panel designs have changed quite a bit since they were fi rst developed. Not only are they stronger and often last longer than they did years ago, but they’re also able to fit onto a roof fairly well.

“When you walk my neighborhood, they look beautiful,” Rooney said. “They’re flat against the roof. They don’t stick up.”

Depending on the roof, solar panels are now able to sit right on the roof. They don’t necessarily have silver edges, which means that all you see is the shiny black color.

“You can design a project that complements the design of your home,” Allen said.

Myth No. 3: Solar panels aren’t powerful enough Solar panels in the past weren’t as strong as they are today, but times and technology have changed.

“We have entire towns, we have entire cities that run their homes on renewable energy,” Allen said.

Both Rooney and Manley agreed that the solar panels produced more than enough energy for them.

In the summer months, “I can basically cover my basic needs in 10-12 days a month,” Rooney said.

Installation and more Both Rooney and Manley went through All Energy Solar to get their panels.

“They come out and do a survey of your house.

They are very communicative. The whole install process took three days. It was little bit loud, but it was very seamless and hands-off, which is what I love,” Rooney said.

The process took even less time for Manley.

“The solar install itself only took one day. They cut the power for 30 minutes so Xcel (Energy) could stop in and install their meter. In terms of the transition, it was really pretty simple,” Manley said.

Rooney mentioned that the group was very transparent with her. They checked out the roof, how mounting would work and how much sun the yard receives, as well as angles.

“If you had too much shade in your yard they’re going to say it’s not going to work out for you,” she said.

Both Rooney and Manley had similar reasons for switching. It wasn’t just because of the reduced cost, but also for the environmental impact. According to Rooney, her solar panels had a significant effect: Following installation, 169.7 metric tons of CO2 will not be emitted into the atmosphere, roughly the equivalent of the elimination of 36 passenger vehicles or the growth of 2,805 tree seedlings.

“I think the one that hit me the most was 185,480 pounds of coal (not being) burned,” Rooney said.

“I really have a hard time coming up with drawbacks,” Manley said.

Not only does this allow people to live lifestyles that reduce their carbon footprint, but it also helps them to become more self-reliant.

“It provides a lot of independence for a lot of people, and people really appreciate that, especially in a time like right not where there’s a lot of fragility,” Allen said.

Both homeowners encouraged residents who are interested to look into solar options and see if the switch is right for them.

“I’d say it doesn’t hurt to reach out. It doesn’t hurt to have a solar company come out and do a bid and an estimate. It doesn’t cost you anything,” Manley said.

Rooney noted that some solar panels can be put up now and more can be added later, five or 10 years down the line.

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Discussions continue on new public works facility

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM LEAD EDITOR

The facility would include a salt storage building, materials storage building and outdoor storage of gravel, dirt and rocks.

really fit into what this rural area of Hugo entails and the beauty of the landscape out there,� he said.

Resident Donna Goetl said she has lived on Hyde Avenue N for 45 years. “We witnessed all that went on and we were a part of the court case against the asphalt plant. I feel for him (Rupnow) because I know how we all felt when we had the asphalt plant here, and the city backed us up on that,� she said. “I just feel like the city is taking advantage of buying the land for the park but using it for other reasons ... I just remember what we all went through to get rid of the asphalt plant.�

Council Member Phil Klein said the public works operation would be very different from the asphalt plant. “We are going to go through some extreme measures to make sure that the building fits the neighborhood and minimize any types of distraction that would be within the neighborhood,� he said.

Mayor Tom Weidt explained, “This park was never purchased with the idea of it being a trail system or passive park. It was purchased with the idea of being an active park with lots of use, baseball diamonds and activities ... I think it is important to do it right the fi rst time and that is why we started looking at this idea rather than doing a band-aid on the current location.�

Dave Strub, who chairs the Hugo Parks, Recreation and Open Space Commission, shared his thoughts. “As the parks guy, I am very mindful of having that 120 acres for us to develop in the future, but also as a Hugo taxpayer I kind of looked at that land as something beneficial rather than the council going out and finding another 10 acres and paying some (excessive) price for it ...� he said. “We can still do a lot of good, active park things out there in the future and we can leverage the facility that is out there by tapping into the well and septic system.�

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

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FILINGS OF AFFIDAVITS OF CANDIDACY NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN That a City Election in the City of Hugo, Washington County, MN, will be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2020, with the IROORZLQJ RIÀFHV WR EH ÀOOHG MAYOR – two (2) year term COUNCIL MEMBER WARD 2 – four (4) year term COUNCIL MEMBER AT LARGE – four (4) year term $IÀGDYLWV RI &DQGLGDF\ IRU WKH DERYH RIÀFHV PD\ EH ÀOHG ZLWK WKH &LW\ &OHUN DW +XJR &LW\ +DOO )LW]JHUDOG $YHQXH EHWZHHQ D P RQ 7XHVGD\ -XO\ DQG S P 7XHVGD\ $XJXVW Michele Lindau, City Clerk Published one time in The Citizen on July 2, 2020.

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Architect’s renderings of what the new approximately 60,600 square-foot public works facility would look like.

The Planning Commission unanimously voted to recommend approval of the site plan for the proposed public works facility at Irish Avenue Park to the City Council at its June 25 meeting.

The City Council will consider the item at its July 6 meeting.

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CITY OF HUGO

A feasibility study for the city’s public works department concluded that a new facility at Irish Avenue Park would better ďŹ t the city’s longterm needs. Irish Avenue Park is located on the northwest corner of Irish Avenue N. and 140th Street N. Access for the facility would be off of County Road 8.

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HUGO — A feasibility study for the future of the city’s public works department recommends that the city construct a new facility at Irish Avenue Park.

City staff presented the findings of the study and listened to residents’ comments at a neighborhood meeting June 18. Another neighborhood meeting was held on the topic in March. “No final decisions have been made at this point about what the city plans to do,� City Administrator Bryan Bear explained. “We have advanced to a planning and design phase, so we have spent some time and effort understanding what the facility would look like ... Those decisions could start to come pretty quick, though.� The City Council will likely discuss the topic at its July 6 meeting.

The City Council authorized Oertel Architects to complete the feasibility study in April 2019. The first part of the study focused on the expansion of the current facility on 137th Street N. “It was determined that the current facility, if expanded, would be able to meet our needs for the next 15 years; however, the site would be fully expanded and would not be able to accommodate our needs beyond that,� said Public Works Director Scott Anderson. “The study also identified that the existing building was not designed to be easily expanded and an expansion would result in several additions awkwardly attached to the existing building, which is less than ideal for efficient operations.�

Part one of the study concluded that it would be more cost-effective to build a new facility at Irish Avenue Park, which is located on the northwest corner of Irish Avenue N. and 140th Street N. Part two of the study looked at constructing a new building on that site.

Community Development Director Rachel Juba explained that the approximately 60,600-squarefoot building would be situated on the south side of Irish Avenue Park along the county road, and would include a salt storage building, materials storage building and outdoor storage of gravel, dirt and rocks. A fence, as well as landscaping, is proposed around the site perimeter. The project is estimated to cost around $10 million.

Of the 125-acre site that the city owns, the building would sit on approximately 10 acres. The building has also been moved back as far as possible, Juba said, to remove the visual from the roadway and not impact existing wetlands on the site. The proposal also provides for a 45,000-square-foot expansion of the building in the future if it is necessary.

Juba said the main access to the property would connect to County Road 8, and the city will be required to work with the county for an access permit.

Road improvements would likely be necessary.

Resident Eli Rupnow lives on 140th Street, just east of the proposed building. He said he was surprised that the city would be willing to give up some of its land, especially before going through the master planning process for the park. (The master plan process will begin this year, and could likely take several years, according to Bear.) “We are doing all of this before having a park master planned with neighbors’ input, thoughts and vision,� Rupnow said. “I don’t understand what the rush is. Once the plans are ready, let’s build this next year ...�

Resident Jared Opel lives on 140th Street, right across from where the building is proposed. “I am out there every day walking my dogs. I think everyone would like to see it remain a country setting and

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Finding connection in isolation

W

hen Minnesota’s stay-at-home order went into effect, I worried that it would make me unbearably lonely. I live alone (aside from my 11-year-old cat), and my nearest immediate family members, my sister and my soon-to-be brotherin-law, live in Chicago—a full six-hour drive away. But now, over three months into the COVID-19 pandemic, I’ve felt all the more connected to the people I love, as I’m talking to them much more often than normal.

It makes for a strange irony that I find both sweet and sad—how my friend in France has felt no further away than my friend who lives a mere few blocks away.

Although, of course, with the threat of COVID-19 still lingering and social distancing guidelines still in effect, that friend nearby doesn’t feel much closer.

Like many of us, I have been heavily relying on video calls to stay in touch with loved ones over the last three months. I typically hate calls that add video to audio, despite how much I love on the phone. I will decline Between talking FaceTime requests from family and only to call them back on the the Lines friends, phone seconds later. I have never been Elizabeth Callen able to pinpoint my reason for such calls, which are certainly a marvel of modern technology, but I sometimes think of a passage from “Infinite Jest,” in which David Foster Wallace writes, in 1996, of the rise and fall of “videotelephony.” In the novel, videotelephony enjoys a brief popularity that is suddenly cut short when users realize it forces them to actually pay attention to the person on the other end of the line.

“Videophone consumers seemed suddenly to realize that they’d been subject to an insidious but wholly marvelous delusion about conventional voice-only telephony. They’d never noticed it before, the delusion—it’s like it was so emotionally complex that it could be countenanced only in the context of its loss,” Wallace writes. “Good old traditional audio-only phone conversations allowed you to presume that the person on the other end was paying complete attention to you while also permitting you not to have to pay anything even close to complete attention to her.”

In the months since COVID-19 struck Minnesota, I have downloaded Zoom onto my laptop and used it at least weekly—to celebrate my dad’s 60th birthday, to virtually wish my grandparents a happy 65th wedding anniversary and to catch up with my closest college friends, now scattered across the country. Wallace is right that videotelephony forces you to pay attention, or at least it takes away your ability to secretly multitask. If you try to trim your fingernails, compose a grocery list or stir something on the stove midZoom call, it becomes obvious that you are not paying attention to your conversation partner.

In these days of social distancing, when in-person gatherings have become a public health risk, I’ve been surprised by how fulfilling I’ve found FaceTime and Zoom calls, and how comforting it is to see the face of the person I am talking to in addition to hearing their voice. Having to look at them while they talk has made me pay better attention and listen more deeply.

Of course, these virtual conversations cannot compare to the experience of actually being with another person.

They sometimes feel like hollow substitutes for “the real thing,” and the longer the pandemic drags on, the more insufficient they seem. I miss spending Sunday mornings at church, being able to invite friends over for dinner and celebrating birthdays and anniversaries with my family in Michigan rather than staring at a screen while sitting in my living room. But someday, hopefully soon, the worst of the virus will be behind us and we can begin returning to these small but sacred rituals.

Quarantine has forced us to slow down our lives as we collectively try to slow the spread of coronavirus. When cases begin to fall and day-to-day life regains some semblance of normalcy, I hope that these realizations of how reflection and rest can enable connection. I am thankful that Zoom has helped me learn that.

Elizabeth Callen is the editor of the Shoreview Press. She can be reached at shoreviewnews@presspubs.com or 651-407-1229.

Distributed and mailed bi-weekly in: • Hugo • Centerville • Lino Lakes P.O. Box 393 Hugo, MN 55038 www.ReadTheCitizen.com

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Slow down, obey the speed limit

ith reduced traffic the last several months, it would seem the risk on Minnesota roads would be reduced. Unfortunately, many drivers have chosen to use the open roads as a license to speed.

To help put the brakes on speed-related deaths and educate motorists, officers, deputies and troopers will work overtime shifts June 22 through July 19. Law enforcement agencies across the state will participate in the campaign coordinated by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Office of Traffic Safety (DPSOTS).

Movers & Shakers

Speeding incidents on the rise Excessive Minnesota speeding over Department of recent months Public Safety is troubling and requires Minnesotans to commit to slowing down this summer.

• From April 1 to May 21, the Minnesota State Patrol pulled over 232 drivers traveling more than 100 mph. That’s compared to 93 drivers during the same time period last year, a 149% increase. Of the 232 drivers, 179 were 30-years-old or younger.

• Overall fatal crashes and fatalities from March 16 - May 31 increased over last year despite reduced traffic.

• While a crash can have more

than one contributing factor, speed was the most frequently cited factor.

All fatal crashes and fatalities for March 16 through May 31: • 2020: 61 (67 deaths) • 2019: 52 (55 deaths) • 2018: 65 (71 deaths) • 2017: 62 (65 deaths) • 2016: 66 (70 deaths) • 2015: 81 (85 deaths) Preliminary reports show speed has already contributed to 36 motorists dying on Minnesota roads in 2020, compared with 27 at this time last year.

Long-term trends are also discouraging. When comparing preliminary numbers for the five-year periods of 2010 to 2014 to 2015 – 2019: • There has been a 7%increase in speed-related fatalities.

• From 2010 to 2014, 22% of all serious injuries were speedrelated. From 2015 to 2019, it was 27%.

Summer and speed – Make the safe choice Drivers who think speeding is not a big deal risk more than just a speeding ticket: • During the 100 most traveled days (Memorial Day through Labor Day) in 2019, preliminary numbers show speed played a role in 31 fatalities.

• During the 100 most traveled days in the past five years (20152019), preliminary numbers show that 125 people lost their lives in speed-related crashes.

• In 2019, speed was a contributing factor in 26% of single-vehicle crashes.

Consequences • Citations could cost $100 or more plus court fees.

• Increased insurance fees.

• A motor vehicle crash involving speed could result in criminal or civil penalties.

Higher speeds, bigger problems • Greater potential for loss of vehicle control.

• Increased stopping distance.

• Less time for driver response for crash avoidance.

• Increased crash severity leading to more severe injuries and death.

If confronted with an aggressive driver • Get out of their way; disengage.

Move right, if you are able.

• Stay calm — reaching your destination safely is your goal.

• Do not challenge them.

• Avoid eye contact.

• Ignore gestures and don’t return them.

• Report aggressive driving (vehicle description, license number and location).

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) comprises 10 divisions operating programs in the areas of law enforcement, crime victim assistance, traffic safety, alcohol and gambling, emergency communications, fire safety, pipeline safety, driver licensing, vehicle registration and emergency management.

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JULY 2, 2020

THE CITIZEN www.readthecitizen.com

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

OBITUARY

Cyclists need to slow down Where were you on Father’s Day about 2:30 p.m.?

Enjoying a family bike ride in Lino Lakes? If the answer is yes, please read this. Your speed caused a bodily injury accident to another cyclist.

My wife and I were on our way to join our son and granddaughters for a Father’s Day ride. There is a short section of multi-use park trail from Sherman Lake Road between Lino Lakes and Centerville. The trail takes a couple of sharp 90-degree turns. We encountered four adult riders traveling at high speed. To my wife’s misfortune, she met the first rider in that blind turn.

They both took evasive action avoiding a head on collection. He remained on the trail. She did not.

Her front wheel dropped off the pavement and she went down. The other three passed by never stopping.

The accident left her with a broken arm and a lot of pain.

She was unable to get up and walk out. I called 911.

The 911 operator and first responders were responsive, professional and very kind. I didn’t get their names.

They deserve a personal thank you. We are very appreciative of their assistance The first responders were Lino Lakes Police officers. Recently there was a house fi re in our neighborhood, again the fi rst responder was a police officer. With all the pressure on police and irresponsible talk of defunding the police, what would I have done if the 911 operator hadn’t picked up or the fi rst responders had not promptly arrived.

I hope cyclists read this and realize the painful impact of irresponsible speed. The speed limit on the park trails is 15 mph. But any speed beyond your ability to stop is too fast. That could have been a family with young children, or a walker with a dog.

The injuries could have been much worst.

If you want to ride 15 mph or faster, get off the multi-use trails. If you can maintain that speed, you are more than capable of safely riding on the roads.

Pat Branch Centerville

POLITICAL BRIEF

SUBMITTED

COUNTY BRIEFS Washington County will receive additional money to assist those who are experiencing homelessness during the COVID-19 pandemic, after the county board accepted money from the state June 16. The Minnesota Legislature passed a $330 million emergency funding package that was signed by Gov. Tim Walz March 28. The legislation included $26.5 million to support homelessness providers’ COVID-19 response.

The county requested $43,420 to provide services for one month to approximately 16 households experiencing homelessness, which it received in April. In May, the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) awarded Washington County an additional $41,040 to provide services for an additional month to approximately 22 households. In early June, DHS awarded

Age 78, of Hugo Died peacefully while surrounded by his family on Friday, June 12, 2020. Tony is preceded in death by his parents, August and Margaret (Leindecker) Olinger; siblings, Guy Olinger, Hubert Olinger, MaryLou Wright. He will be deeply missed by his beloved wife of 53 years, Judy; children, Kelly (Steve) Yates, Doug Olinger; step-grandchildren, Tyler, Tanner, Caleb, Coda; beloved dog, Mayme; siblings, John (Joan), Joanne Yukbonias, Sharon (Tom) Pogreba, Judy (Dick) Cohoes, Sandy (Rick) Hubmann, Wanda Olinger; nieces, nephews, family and friends.

A Celebration of His Life will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, June 27, 2020 at Tony and Judy’s home.

651-464-3556, mattsonfuneralhome.com

COMMUNITY BRIEFS The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is shortening its window for making reservations for camping and lodging to 120 days. The change will take effect July 1.

Previously, customers could reserve campsites, cabins, yurts, tipis and lodging facilities up to one year in advance. The DNR planned to make the change in the fall of 2020, but operational uncertainties with the COVID-19 pandemic and associated changes to cleaning protocols necessitate making the change sooner. The policy change is based on customer survey results, data analysis and a desire to improve fairness and equity in the reservation process, according

Donald Raleigh has received the Republican endorsement to run for the District 38A legislative seat vacated by State Rep. Linda Runbeck. Raleigh will appear on the ballot in the Aug. 11 primary election.

Raleigh, a resident of Blaine, owns a digital marketing/website development business. He served eight years in the U.S. Army during the fi rst Gulf War and also did a stint as an Honor Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery.

District 38A covers the cities of Centerville, Circle Pines, Lexington, Lino Lakes and portions of Blaine and Hugo. Rep. Runbeck will continue to serve as state representative until Dec. 31.

County receives additional money to shelter homeless during pandemic

Anthony “Tony” Olinger

DNR changes camping and lodging reservation window

Donald D ld Raleigh R l i h wins i Republican R bli endorsement d

Donald Raleigh

5

Washington County an additional $92,850 to provide services for one month to approximately 38 households experiencing homelessness.

Funding will be used to expand shelter capacity, purchase sanitation supplies and support Homeless Outreach Services Team (HOST) staffing needs.

The county will be able to request funding on an ongoing basis until the state funds run out. The total amount received to date is $177,310.

County board proclaims Summer at Your Library Commissioners proclaimed June 15 to Aug. 15 as Summer at Your Library at its meeting June 16. This Washington County Library program includes events and activities to encourage children, teens and adults to make reading, learning and exploring a part of their summer plans.

In its resolution, the board noted that summer is traditionally the busiest and most exciting season at the library, and participation in summer library programs can neutralize summer learning loss and improve comprehension and memory skills for children and teens. The resolution noted that the library’s programs and activities encourage library users of all ages to become lifelong readers and learners. It did note that the coronavirus pandemic has changed the way libraries deliver services. Washington County Library has adapted its summer programming to offer virtual events, curbside programs and individual activities that encourage reading and learning for all ages.

YMCAs lead virtual expedition The YMCA has launched 7Summits, a free, virtual cardio, strength and mindfulness challenge kids can do this summer. In the 7Summits expedition, kids “climb” up and down the seven highest mountains in the world by completing several 5- to 15-minute activities while also learning about the mountains. 7Summits and other activities and games can be found at 12Bursts.org.

CALENDAR BRIEF Story Stroll available at Gammelgården å Museum Kids and families can get outside while also enjoying a great read with a new story stroll at the Gammelgården Museum in Scandia organized

by Washington County Library. Through July 15, participants can walk through the grounds of the museum while reading “Ten Pigs: An Epic Bath Adventure” by Derek Anderson. Look for other story strolls at Washington County Parks this summer.

SEE COUNTY BRIEFS, PAGE 6

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6

&

THE CITIZEN

www.readthecitizen.com

JULY 2, 2020

HUGO POLICE REPORTS The Washington County Sheriff’s Offi ce reported the following incidents:

• Snowmobiles on the water and creating noise were reported

at 5:38 p.m. May 31 in the 13000 block of Isleton Avenue. Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies located the “snowmobilers” and were advised they were done for the day. Deputies, in turn, advised the noisemakers of the city noise ordinance.

• A suspicious male reported at 5:33 a.m. June 1 walking toward Forest Lake on Highway 61 and 165th Street N. turned out to be a homeless man headed to stay the night at the Hitching Post Motel. Deputies provided the man with refreshments and a card for the Washington County Crisis Hotline.

• A resident in the 15000 block of Foxhill Avenue N. at 6:45 p.m. June 1 reported an attempted scam.

• A resident in the 12000 block of Falcon Avenue N. reported unknown persons for blowing up his mailbox with fi reworks overnight June 1-2.

The mailbox was blown completely apart and strewn all over the ground.

• A resident in the 6000 block of 165th Street N. at 9:51 a.m. June 2 reported receiving a letter alerting him of the existence of an unsuccessful unemployment claim fi led in his name.

• A resident in the 4000 block of 132nd Way N. at 3:28 p.m. June 2 reported the valve stem caps of her boyfriend’s car removed and replaced incorrectly. The tires were also found to be low.

There are no suspects other than past boyfriends and area kids.

• A sign at the intersection of 130th Street N. and Forest Blvd. N. was reported blown over at 5:29 p.m. June 2 during the evening storm that roared through.

• A resident in the 15000 block of Emerald Drive N. at 8:17 p.m. June 2 reported a female for posting her job and home address on social media. Deputies advised the complainant about obtaining a harassment restraining order.

• A resident in the 5000 block of Farnham Drive N. at 5:54 a.m. June 3 reported being harassed by his ex-wife and was advised of options to cease communications with her and to mediate their custody dispute.

• A resident in the 6000 block of 146th Street N. at 9:04 a.m. June 4 reported receiving

debt collection phone calls for the past three years for a “Sierra,” who the complainant thinks must have had her phone number in the past.

• A resident in the 6000 block of 132nd Street N. reported “Black Lives Matter” spray-painted on his siding overnight June 4-5. The complainant

said he thinks he was targeted due to a tailgate bench he had painted with the Confederate fl ag. No permanent damage was suffered as he was able to remove the paint. Extra patrol was requested through that weekend, however.

• A customer of the Kwik Trip in the 14000 block of Victor Hugo Blvd. N. at 6:05 p.m. June 10 reported being asked for money by a female and her family so that they could return home to Oregon.

• A resident in the 5000 block of Fairpoint Drive N. reported his vehicle keyed overnight June 5-6.

• The complainant said that when he gave the family cash, they then asked him for more money and offered him a baggie of jewelry in exchange.

• A resident in the 5000 block of 125th Lane N. at 1:04 p.m. June 8 reported receiving a letter from the State of Minnesota indicating an unemployment account was opened in his name. The state made one payment to the bogus account but has since canceled it. The complainant is not out any money.

• A Minnesota male was cited at 8:30 p.m. June 8 in the 12000 block of Forest Blvd. N. for illegal windshield tint and tabs that expired in August

by Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies on stationary patrol.

• A suspicious male riding his bike on Forest Blvd. N. and 140th Street N. without lights at 3:30 a.m. June 9 turned out to be a man on his way home from a friend’s house. Deputies followed the male until he was able to ride on the sidewalk.

• A resident in the 13000 block of Flay Avenue N. at 7:49 a.m. June 9 reported receiving a phone call from a 1-800 number claiming to be her grandson at the Stillwater Courthouse and needing $2,400. The “grandson” was being charged with careless driving following an accident. The complainant knew it was a scam and lost no money.

• A resident in the 5000 block of 140th Street N. at 2:05 p.m. June 9 reported hiring Zerorez to clean her ducts, but that a different company showed up in an old rusted cargo van and performed the work instead.

The workers didn’t seem suspicious, and no property is missing. The complainant was unable to retrieve license plate information and said she would just await the bill.

• An unidentified person was arrested at 4:27 p.m. June 9 for second-degree DWI following a driving complaint in the 10000 block of 122nd Street N. • An unidentified motorist was cited at 7:01 p.m.

June 9 on eastbound Frenchman Road and Victor Hugo Blvd. N. for running a red light.

• A driver was not cited in the 14000 block of Victor Hugo Blvd. N., after deputies observed an occupied vehicle without license plates sitting and running in the back of the Kwik Trip lot at 3:07 a.m. June 10. The subject admitted to having a small amount of marijuana in the motor vehicle. The vehicle was towed, and the occupant had to call for a ride.

CENTENNIAL LAKES POLICE REPORTS The Centennial Lakes Police Department reported the following incidents: • Police responded to a residence in Circle Pines June 11 on report of a domestic dispute. One of the involved parties was transported to the hospital.

• Officers conducted a traffic stop in the area of Main Street and Mound Trail June 11 in Centerville. Both the driver and passenger were taken into custody and charges are pending.

• An officer responded to the 100 block of Canterbury Road in Circle Pines June 12 on a theft from motor vehicle report. An unknown suspect stole several items from a vehicle that was parked in the driveway. The estimated

loss is $600. Other thefts from motor vehicles were reported on Jackson Avenue in Lexington and Sherwood Court in Circle Pines.

• Officers were dispatched to the Rice Creek Campground in Centerville June 12 on a report of a disorderly male. Police located the male and found him to be uncooperative and argumentative. The male was advised of the park rules and encouraged to go to sleep for the night.

• Officers were dispatched to the 3800 block of Restwood Road in Lexington June 16 on the report of disorderly conduct and an unwanted party. The person was trespassed from the location.

The male then went to a nearby ATM, withdraw an even larger sum of cash and gave it to the family in exchange for the baggie of jewelry.

• A suspicious male riding a bicycle in wobbly fashion on the wrong side of the roadway on 170th Street N. and Forest Blvd. N. at 9:14 p.m. June 10 without illumination or reflective safety equipment turned out to be an employee of a nearby establishment on the way home after his shift. The male’s speech and steadiness on his feet indicated more sobriety than his wobbly cycling suggested. Deputies advised him to update his safety equipment if he planned to ride at night.

• The driver of a light-colored sedan was cited at 2:02 a.m. June 11 on southbound Forest Blvd. N. at 125th Street N. for driving with license plate tabs that expired in September.

• A suspicious couple reported at 8:39 p.m. June 11 on Ingersoll Avenue N. and 165th Street N. in a lifted white pickup truck with outof-state plates turned out to be a male and female playing hide-and-seek with several other individuals in other vehicles around town. When deputies advised the couple of how suspicious their behavior looked, they willingly left the area.

• The driver of a red sedan was cited at 7:39 p.m.

June 12 on Forest Blvd. N. and Frenchman Road for failure to provide proof of insurance and verbally warned for expired registration, following a traffic stop for the expired tabs.

• Another driver of a red sedan was cited for multiple violations at 7:55 p.m. June 12 on Frenchman Road and Oneka Parkway N. after he was pulled over for translucent covers over his front and rear license plates.

• A group of skateboarding males was reported at 12:46 a.m. June 13 in the 13000 block of Elmcrest Avenue N. for being loud as they walked to the residence of one of the males in the Fable Hill area. After hearing the reason for contact with deputies, the males understood and quietly continued toward their destination.

• An unidentified driver was cited at 8:09 p.m.

June 13 in the 13000 block of Forest Blvd. N. for speeding 65 mph in a 55 mph zone by deputies who clocked him at 73 mph. The driver admitted to speeding and knowing the speed limit.

Loretta Harding

COUNTY BRIEFS County recorder appointed Debra Ledvina was appointed as county recorder by the board June 16. Special legislation was passed in 1997 that allowed the county board to appoint a department head to carry out the statutory duties of the Office of County Recorder. In 2006, the county adopted an organizational structure under which the Director of Property Records and Taxpayer Services has the overall responsibility for the statutory duties of the Office of County Recorder. Ledvina was appointed the county’s Director of Property Records and Taxpayer Services June 9. She will succeed Jennifer Wagenius, who was appointed deputy county administrator in February.

Performance measurement program continues Washington County will continue to participate in the performance

measurement program and submit the report on the 10 standard measures created by the Council on Local Results and Innovation to the Office of the State Auditor. The county board agreed to participate for a 10th year June 23.

In 2010, the Legislature created the Council on Local Results and Innovation, tasked with creating a standard set of 10 measures for cities and 10 measures for counties. Participation in the standard measures program is voluntary. A county that elects to participate in the standards measures program may be eligible for a reimbursement of 14 cents per capita in county program aid, not to exceed $25,000.

The county will report the results of the 10 adopted measures to residents on the county website at co.washington. mn.us/performancemeasures. The report will also be included in county budget documents and fi led with the Office of the State Auditor.

JULY 2, 2020

THE CITIZEN www.readthecitizen.com

7

NEW CHIEF: No stranger to Anoka County law enforcement FROM PAGE 1

the Fridley Police Department and I know that he will have the same great support and respect from within our department and from surrounding public safety officials ... I believe that the future of the CLPD remains very bright with Jim Mork as chief.”

Who is James Mork?

Mork has spent his entire career with the Fridley Police Department. He started out as a patrol officer in 1997 and has since held positions as a problem response team officer, detective, patrol sergeant and, most recently, the investigations division lieutenant.

He was born in Tokyo, Japan, but moved to the U.S. with his family when he was just 6 years old. He has a bachelor’s degree in history from Bethel College and a master’s degree in police leadership, administration and education from the University of St. Thomas.

Mork said he had an interest in law enforcement from a very young age. He toyed around

with the idea of becoming a police officer in high school and college but decided he would pursue a major in history because Bethel did not have a law enforcement program at the time.

After graduation, he ended up working for a property management company, providing security for a luxury condominium complex.

One day he ran into one of his college roommates, who was a police officer. Mork’s friend strongly encouraged him to think about pursuing the career and even let him go on a ride along with him.

“I thought that would be neat.

You are serving the public and every day is not a cookie-cutter image of the previous day,” Mork recalled. He decided to go back to school for his master’s degree and was the first person in his family to pursue a career in law enforcement.

Why CLPD? Mork explained that he and the Fridley police chief are around the same age and joined

the department around the same time. “Our career is going to run about the same length ...

So, when he would retire would be around the same time that I am going to retire. I knew that having a chief opportunity there just wasn’t going to be a possibility,” he said. “If I wanted that challenge and wanted that opportunity to have that input on an organization, I knew I would have to go elsewhere.”

Mork didn’t just pick anywhere, though. He wanted to be “choosy” about it.

“Having worked my entire career in Fridley, we share a radio channel, so I hear what is going on in that community all the time and I have gotten acquainted with some of the officers at training,” he said. “I know officers in the neighboring communities really well and I checked with them and asked what they could tell me about the department, and I kept hearing all of these positive things.”

For the past 23 years, Mork has established an abundance of relationships in Anoka

Plan for changes Once Mork met Chief Coan, he said it was clear that Coan “has a heart for this” and has put in a lot of effort into making sure that he is leaving the department in a good place.

“I am very honored and excited to build off of what he has (built and) work with the community and the officers to develop the best department we can possibly come up with,” Mork said. “It is certainly a situation where I don’t have to come in and tear everything down ... I want to take a very measured approach and make sure we are very clear on what the community is looking for, what the governing board is looking for. I think what they have going is very good, and we will tweak it here and there.”

SUBMITTED

Lt. James Mork, of Fridley Police Department, has been selected as the next chief of the Centennial Lakes Police Department. He will likely start in the position in lake July.

Mork has the advantage of coming from a larger police department with a higher call volume. He has some ideas that have worked for Fridley that the CLPD may be able to implement, too. If something needs to be tweaked it will be, but Mork said he is not going to make changes just for the sake of change.

Mork will likely take over as chief in late July.

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

PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEF

Area developer arrested James Russell Jensen was to request that his letter of credit for arrested June 23 for trespassing at the development be released. A letter City Hall, a misdemeanor. of credit provided by a developer Jensen is the developer of the can be used by a city to finance St. Clair Estates development, a the completion of substandard or 35-lot, single-family residential unfinished improvements. subdivision located north of Lino Lakes Deputy Director Kyle Birch Street/CSAH 34 and east of Leibel would not say much about the Hokah Drive.

James Jensen incident that led to Jensen’s arrest, but The Citizen has repeatedly did say, “An adult male was charged reported on an ongoing disagreement with disorderly conduct on Friday, June 19. between the city of Lino Lakes and the City The same adult male was arrested and cited Council and Jensen over the past three for repeated trespass violations on June 23 years. Jensen has repeatedly visited the and booked at the Anoka County Jail.” council during work sessions and meetings The investigation is ongoing.

County and is familiar with how the system functions. “We use the same radio channels, report rating systems, attorneys, judges, prosecutors ... I don’t have to relearn all of that,” he said.

Lt. Russell Blanck will retire in July Centennial Lakes Police Department (CLPD) Lt. Russell Blanck announced he will retire July 6. Blanck started with CLPD as a part-time officer in 1996. Over the past 24 years he has held the positions of patrol officer, DARE officer, detective, administrative sergeant and, most recently, an administrative commander/ lieutenant, a position he has held for the past five years.

SUBMITTED

Lt. Russell Blanck

LINO LAKES POLICE REPORTS The Lino Lakes Police Department reported the following incidents: • A community service officer (CSO) responded to an animal complaint in the area of Antelope Drive and Wildflower Drive June 10 regarding a dog off leash. The CSO located and spoke to a juvenile male regarding animal ordinances, and the juvenile and his parents were educated on the city ordinance.

• Officers responded to the report of a stalled jetski on Centerville Lake June 10 with people in the water. Upon arrival, emergency services found the people involved to be okay and out of the water.

• Officers responded to a report of a possibly deceased person in the 6500 block of Hokah Drive June 11. Officers arrived and determined the adult victim was deceased. The investigation is ongoing.

• Officers responded to a residence in the 7500 block of Woods Edge Boulevard June 11 on a report of an injured bird.

Officers provided contact information for resources to the reporting party.

• A resident in the 7600 block of Behm Lane reported that a fraudulent

unemployment claim was made in their name June 12. The investigation is ongoing. Two other residents reported the same occurrence.

• A caller reported heavy smoke coming out of their home in the 600 block of Sandpiper Drive June 12. Officers arrived and found the house on fi re. The Lino Lakes Fire Department, with help from several other agencies, extinguished the fi re. The cause of the fi re is under investigation.

• Officers responded to a report of a disorderly person at the county park in the 7400 block of Main Street June 12. Officers located the individual, who agreed to go to bed.

No crime occurred.

• An officer performed a traffic stop for speeding in the 900 block of Main Street June 13. The driver showed signs of impairment and was subsequently arrested for fourth-degree DWI. • Officers responded to a report of a suspicious male walking around a business parking lot with a laptop in the 700 block of Apollo Drive June 13. Officers located the male, who reported he attempting

to connect to WiFi for driving directions.

• Officers responded to a noise complaint at a residence in the 7800 block of Gotland Lane June 13. After investigating, multiple people were cited for underage consumption.

• An officer observed juveniles out past curfew in the 100 block of Stallion Lane June 13. The officer brought the juveniles home and left them in the care of an adult.

• Officers witnessed an unknown female setting off a car alarm in the 6300 block of Langer Lane June 14. While attempting to locate the female, they encountered an intoxicated person under 21 years of age who was cited for underage consumption.

• An officer responded to a business in the 7000 block of 21st Avenue June 14 on a report of a disorderly male. The officer investigated and the male was cited for disorderly conduct and trespassed from the location.

• Officers responded to a drug complaint at a park in the 7400 block of Main Street June 15. The officer made contact with two individuals and located

several narcotics. One individual was arrested and another one received a citation.

• Officers responded to a domestic situation on Ash Street June 16. An adult female was subsequently arrested for domestic assault and booked into the Anoka County Jail.

• Officers responded to a personal injury crash in the 6300 block of Deerwood Lane June 17.

Officers determined there were minor injuries, and an adult male was cited for failure to drive with due care.

• A community service officer responded to a report of missing trail signs in the area of 12th Avenue and Peregrine Circle June 18. The missing signs were reported to the public works department so they can be replaced.

• Three juveniles were identified after they reportedly damaged county property in the 500 block of Birch Street June 18. Charges are pending.

• An officer took a report of tools stolen from a work vehicle in the 2200 block of Clearwater Creek Court June 18. The case is under investigation.

• Officers responded to a gas station in the 7500 block of Lake Drive June 19 for disorderly people.

The involved parties left in a vehicle prior to police arrival. However, the vehicle was located and stopped for a traffic violation. The driver was arrested for DWI. • An officer took a report of a disruptive male at City Hall June 19.

The male left the area prior to officer arrival.

This incident is under investigation.

• Officers responded to a suspicious activity call in the 500 block of Myrtle Lane June 20.

The caller advised that her surveillance system captured video of people walking up to their front door in the middle of the night. Officers checked the area and were unable to locate the individuals.

Nothing appeared to have been tampered with at the complainant’s residence.

• A resident called in a grass fi re in the 6700 block of Clearwater Creek Drive June 20. Officers arrived and found a legal recreational fi re.

The caller was issued a citation for falsely reporting an emergency.

8

THE CITIZEN

JULY 2, 2020 www.readthecitizen.com

History of Independence Day The Fourth of July, also known as Independence Day, has been a federal holiday in the U.S. since 1941. The tradition of celebrating the day, however, is nearly as old as the country itself.

On July 2, 1776, the Continental Congress voted in favor of independence from Great Britain, and two days later, delegates from the 13 colonies adopted the Declaration of Independence, drafted by Thomas Jefferson. America was still in the midst of the Revolutionary War and had not yet won its independence, but July 4 has been commemorated as “America’s birthday” since the 18th century.

The end of the Revolutionary War would not come until the 1780s and was spurred by the British surrender at the Battle of Yorktown. British General Charles Cornwallis led his troops to a port in British-occupied Yorktown, Virginia, expecting aid in the form of the arrival of British ships, sent from New York. But those ships never arrived, thanks to the French joining forces with America. The French navy kept British ships from entering through the York River or the Chesapeake Bay, and French General Jean-Baptiste Rochambeau and George Washington led 17,000 troops to surround Yorktown. The FrancoAmerican siege exhausted the British army’s supply of food and ammunition,

and with no hope of victory, Cornwallis agreed to Washington’s Articles of Capitulation, signing the document on Oct. 19, 1781.

Fighting did not formally end until 1783, but with the surrender at Yorktown, Great Britain had given up any chance of winning the Revolutionary War, effectively securing an American victory.

Since 1776, July 4 has been celebrated as the birth of American independence, with festivities ranging from fi reworks, parades and concerts to family gatherings and backyard barbeques.

Complied by Elizabeth Callen

BY THE NUMBERS 2.5 million 56 signatures 70-year-old 26-year-old 1785 year 1941 year 150 million 1 in 3 More than 14,000

residents in the U.S. in July 1776 on the Declaration of Independence Benjamin Franklin was the oldest signer Edward Rutledge, of South Carolina was the youngest of the oldest Fourth of July parade, held in Bristol, Rhode Island Congress made Independence Day a paid federal holiday hot dogs consumed on the Fourth of July of all hot dogs produced in the U.S. come from Iowa Fourth of July fireworks displays across the U.S. each year

SUBMITTED

The annual 4th of July parade in Forest Lake has been canceled for the second time in its 97-year history. The first was in the midst of World War II.

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THE CITIZEN www.readthecitizen.com

9

BUSINESS BRIEFS

SUBMITTED

Kids Abilities plans to move into a new building by March 2021.

Kids Abilities to move into new, bigger space The Hugo City Council recently approved a planned unit development (PUD) amendment and site plan for Pratt Ordway Properties, which will allow for the construction of a singlestory, 13,879-square-foot office/retail building primarily located on Lot 2, Block 1, Victor Gardens Commons and partially on Outlot A, Victor Gardens South Village. The building will be located south of P.A.W.S. Pet Hospital and east of KinderGardens Child Development Center. The building will likely be home to two to four tenants. Kids Abilities plans to stay in its current space until construction is complete on the building, hopefully by March 2021.

Lake Area Bank hosts virtual food drive Lake Area Bank is hosting a virtual food drive and matching a portion of donations through July 31.

The bank wants to do its part to support community food shelves during the pandemic through online monetary donations. Food and donations will be collected for the Family Pathways, Hugo Good Neighbors, Ralph Reeder, Valley Outreach and White Bear Area Emergency food shelves. The bank has agreed to match donations made through its online campaign up to $1,000 per food shelf. To support the virtual food drive, visit lakeareabank.com.

Laborer’s Training Center plans expansion Laborer’s Training Center (LTC), 2350 Main St., is planning to construct a 37,284-square-foot training facility to the east of its existing facility on Lino’s eastern border with Hugo. LTC offers construction industry vocation training. LTC has been at the Main Street location since 1993 and has outgrown its working/training bays, classrooms and storage space.

A second stand-alone training facility is proposed with related driveways, parking lots and stormwater management ponds to create a campus to serve all trainees and union members. The building is proposed to be constructed in two phases. The Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended the City Council approve the concept at its July 13 meeting.

Campanelle opens for takeout Campanelle Restaurant and Bar, located at 7114 Otter Lake Road in Lino Lakes, is open for takeout. The week of June 15, “we are open” and “open for takeout” signs were spotted hanging on the side of the building. Owner Kent Bergmann confirmed that the restaurant is open for takeout but is “severely understaffed.” Bergmann explained that it is only he and one other person trying to fulfill the high volume of orders. He is seeking cooks and servers. Visit campanelle.com for more information.

SHANNON GRANHOLM | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Campanelle Restaurant and Bar is now open for takeout.

Jersey Mike’s coming to Lino Lakes Jersey Mike’s Subs is coming to Lino Lakes. The sub shop will be located at 7114 Otter Lake Road, in the same building as Dunkin’ and Campanelle Restaurant and Bar. The company would not comment on when the business would open its doors but said, “the location is still in development.”

Fall prep sports divided into risk level categories

BY BRUCE STRAND CONTRIBUTING WRITER

It’s possible that some but not all fall high school sports will be offered this fall, according to comments during a Minnesota State High School League discussion Thursday.

During the league’s weekly L.E.A.D. meeting, a virtual informational discussion between high

school athletic directors and league administrators, MSHSL Executive Director Erich Martens responded to a question whether an all-or-nothing approach will be taken during the coronavirus pandemic.

Martens stated that he believes at least some sports will resume in the fall, and that it’s “less likely” that the league will take the all or none approach.

The Minnesota Department of Health, he noted, has guidelines for youth sports and social distancing, which divides sports into low-, mediumand high-risk categories.

Fall sports in the lowrisk category include cross- country running, singles tennis, individual swimming and diving, and clay target shooting.

Regarded medium risk are volleyball,

soccer, doubles tennis and swimming relays.

Football is considered a high-risk sport.

Sports policy also depends on whether schools are open this fall.

A decision is expected in late July, with districts being asked to draw up three scenarios for learning. Martens said that leaves time for the league to further analyze its strategies.

DAVE NYBERG | SUBMITTED

Catch of the Week

Lily Nyberg of Hugo recently caught her first northern pike on Bald Eagle Lake. The fish was 19 inches long and was caught on a blue and white KVD Strike King.

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THE CITIZEN

JULY 2, 2020 www.readthecitizen.com

LIONS PARK: Park board weighs options for future Lions Park FROM PAGE 1

users (age/ability). Option three still has the splash pad but changes up the parking slightly.

The project estimate, including contingency and design fees, is $5.3 to $8.8 million. Some of the necessary road improvements and trail improvements would be included with the Hugo Gardens development.

“There are three big-picture items that we need direction on: The parking lot by City Hall, the type of play features (splash pad, all-inclusive playground or neither) and the size of the shelter,” said Parks Planner Shayla Denaway.

Some members of the park board expressed that they would like to see some sort of water feature included in the plans. It was brought up that the City Council may have some concerns regarding the splash pad proposal. Denaway said the splash pad has never been discussed at a public meeting, but she guessed that cost and water use could be a major factor. In an email to The Citizen, City Administrator Bryan Bear said some of the council’s initial concerns include the initial cost, high water consumption and high maintenance requirements.

Parks Commissioner Nicole Schmid said she thought they would get a lot of support from the community on the proposed amenities, including the splash pad.

“We are spending millions on this park. We want people to come and enjoy the park. There are 1,000 kids that attend elementary school in Hugo right now and we are building another elementary school and have all those homes going in in Adelaide Landing — families are moving in there,” Schmid explained. “As a stay-at-home mom of three kids for 13 years, it would have been awesome to have that.

I joined this (commission) so that I could make a difference for other parents, to make our city better and more desirable and make us the place people want to go ... We have land to build on here, and we have a lot of assets up in our town. I think we have a moment here to do something really great.”

Parks Commissioner Ranell Tennyson said people need somewhere to go when it is hot. “People are going where there is water to cool off and have fun on a hot day. I think most families that are moving

SUBMITTED

This is the second option that was presented to the park board. This option removes the splash pad and creates a larger playground area tailored as an all-inclusive playground for different types of users (age/ability).

here would say a splash pad would be great.”

Although the board did not select a preferred option, Denaway said one thing is clear — the board would like Lions Park to be a “destination park.”

The commission and City Council held a joint meeting June 29, after press deadline, to discuss

Lions Park improvements. See the next issue of The Citizen for updates.

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

Chasing the big muskies on White Bear Lake

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

Pulling a muskie out of the water is of one the most daunting and exciting moments for a fresh-water fisherman.

“Their fight is not really long, but pretty intense,” said Erik Boxmeyer of Hugo, who has caught about 125 of them, mostly on White Bear Lake and Bald Eagle Lake. “It’s quite an adrenaline rush to catch a muskie.”

“They fight like crazy,” agreed Mike Stawnycha of White Bear Lake.

Saturday, June 6, was the fishing opener for muskies, the largest member of the pike family.

They are big, fast, and handsome, with an elongated body and a flat head, their sides light colored with dark bars, and a white underside.

“You can get hooked just at the sight of one,” said Josh Stevenson, fishing guide and owner of Blue Ribbon Tackle in Oakdale.

“Muskies are the most challenging fresh-water fish to catch,” he affirmed. “It’s a way to hit the big home run, and to try top your personal best.”

They don’t taste all that good, though. Most muskies that get caught go right back in the water.

“Muskies are not much for table fare,” said Stawnycha, 64, who has caught “hundreds” but kept only two or three.

“You just take a picture with it and let it go,” said Boxmeyer, referring to his really big catches.

“I’ve caught same one twice in the same day. Once my brother and I caught the same one 25 minutes apart.

You can tell by the distinct markings.”

Stevenson (mightymusky. com) said he’d rate White Bear Lake as “average to above average” for muskies and praised several things about it.

The lake is “great for guys who like to fi sh in clear water” as you can “see the action” better than at a lot of other lakes. You can catch them “all over the whole lake” including shallows, trolling, or 70 feet of water.

“You’ve got a shot at a 50inch muskie on any given day on White Bear Lake.”

Stawnycha rates White Bear Lake as a “six or seven” for muskies on a scale of 10, with nearby Bald Eagle Lake a “seven or eight.”

He added, “White Bear Lake is such a clean lake that you’re going to get most of your muskies at night. That’s when they do most of their hunting, because during the day there is so much activity on the lake.”

Boxmeyer said he likes to fi sh them at night “but more due to the crowd on the lake during the day. With all the jet skis and drunk pontoon drivers, sometimes you’re

SUBMITTED

Erik Boxmeyer proudly displayed one of his biggest muskies.

ready to sell your boat at the end of the day.”

Minnesota’s official muskie long standing record was 56 inches long and 54 pounds, caught in Lake Winnibigoshish in 1957. A new record was set August 6, 2019 by Cory Kitzmann on Lake Vermillion with a 57 1/4 inch muskie he called “a true giant.”

“The biggest I’ve seen on White Bear Lake,” Boxmeyer said, “was one my friend caught that was 51 inches. On Mille Lacs, I was in a group where one was 57 inches.”

As for where to catch them, it varies, he said. “One week you catch them in two feet of water by the beach, the next week in 20 feet of water

in the weeds … They tend to follow the bait fi sh, the crappies and sunfi sh that they eat.”

“There’s never two muskie days the same,” Stevenson noted. “Muskies constantly keep you on your toes.”

JULY 2, 2020

www.readthecitizen.com

CENTERVILLE CITY CALENDAR July 7: July 8: July 15:

Planning & Zoning Commission meeting at 6:30 p.m.

City Council meeting at 6:30 p.m.

EDA meeting at 6:30 p.m.

HUGO CITY CALENDAR City Council meeting at 7 p.m.

Planning Commission meeting at 7 p.m.

Parks Commission meeting at 7 p.m.

LINO LAKES CITY CALENDAR July 2: July 6: July 8: July 13:

11

HUGO BITS & PIECES

Special meetings are posted in the City Hall lobby. Public notices are now published in The Citizen; read them at presspubs.com (click on Public Notices).

July 6: July 9: July 15:

THE CITIZEN

EDAC meeting canceled City Council work session at 6 p.m.

Planning & Zoning Board meeting at 6:30 p.m.

City Council meeting at 6:30 p.m.

The Hugo City Council took the following action at its June 15 meeting, held via teleconference: • Received a COVID-19 update from City Administrator Bryan Bear. Bear reported: ° YMCA’s Park Play Days are up and running for the summer at Hanifl Fields Athletic Park. ° Portable restrooms are now available (and on a cleaning schedule) at city parks with readily available hand sanitizer. ° The city is required to adopt a COVID-19 Preparedness Plan before June 29. “The state has not released any guidance yet on how to write this plan ... It was expected today, and I haven’t seen anything yet,” Bear said. “We have done our best to make a plan that we are guessing will comply with the state guidelines.”

The plan, which was approved by the council, touches on many areas, including employees working from home when possible; installing safety precautions for staff to safely work at City Hall when needed; ensuring sick workers stay home; and that social distancing and strict cleaning, disinfection and ventilation protocols are maintained. The plan also addresses the use of indoor and outdoor spaces city-owned spaces.

• Discussed if the city should re-open its community spaces to the public. So far during the pandemic, the

BUSINESS BRIEF

CARTER JOHNSON | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

The city of Centerville co-hosted a ribbon cutting with the Quad Area Chamber of Commerce for its two newest businesses, Midwest Best Water and Triplex Systems, June 24. The businesses occupy the city’s newest industrial building along Commerce Drive. Midwest Best Water has installations in 13 states and Triplex Systems has sales worldwide. Midwest Best Water is currently hiring and Triplex Systems anticipates adding new positions in the near future. In attendance were representatives from Crawford-Merz (general contractor); Anoka County Regional Economic Development; Centerville’s EDA; City Council (including Mayor D. Love) and city staff; Chamber members; Mike Brass (Realtor) and representatives from both businesses.

city has not allowed community members to utilize the Oneka Room at City Hall, Hanifil Fields Athletic Park building or the Rice Lake Center at the public works facility. Bear said the city is now allowed to rent out those spaces and that city staff has prepared some rules, such as only using 25% of the room’s capacity.

Users are also responsible for cleaning the space both before and after use. Bear said the city will provide the necessary cleaning supplies for users, and users will also be required to fill out a use agreement.

• Decided to continue holding council meetings via teleconference. Bear explained that while the state of emergency order is in place, the council is allowed to hold remote meetings Once the emergency order is lifted, however, remote meetings will not be permitted.

• Approved pay voucher No. 10 for $484,332 to CB&I LLC for the Water Tower No. 4 project. The pay voucher is for work certified through June 20.

• Approved a variance for a rear yard setback at 12160 Falcon Ave. Richard and Cynthia Degnan applied for a variance from the rear yard setback requirement for a proposed accessory building on their property.

The variance will allow the accessory building to be built 10 feet from the rear lot line where 30 feet is required by ordinance.

• Approved a reduction in letter of credit for Oneka Place 3rd Addition. The current letter of credit is $557,141. City staff has inspected the work completed and recommended reducing the letter of credit to $213,135, 10% of the original letter of credit of $2,131,352. The council also approved a reduction in letter of credit for Adelaide Landing 3rd Addition and 4th Addition. The current letter of credit for the 3rd Addition is for $225,150 and will be reduced to $84,274.

The current letter of credit for the 4th Addition is for $334,767, which will be reduced to $46,326.

• Approved an access license agreement with the Rice Creek Watershed District (RCWD) to have temporary use of the main entrance to Clearwater Creek Park Reserve to access Judicial Ditch 3 for a repair project.

• Scheduled a public hearing for the proposed public works facility at Irish Avenue Park for 7 p.m. July 6. Anyone who wishes to speak at the meeting is strongly encouraged to make arrangements by 4:30 p.m. July 6 by contacting City Clerk Michele Lindau at 651-762-6315.

The next City Council meeting will be at 7 p.m.

July 6, held via teleconference. For more information on the remote meeting and how to participate, go to ci.hugo.mn.us/participate.

Shannon Granholm

CENTERVILLE TIDBITS The Centerville City Council took the following action at its June 24 meeting, held via teleconference: • Unanimously approved the fi re station lease agreement with M Health Fairview. As of June 1, ambulance services in Centerville have been provided by M Health.

At the May 27 meeting, council approved a resolution approving M Health as the new ambulance provider. While stationed at the fi re station, M Health will be responsible for the maintenance of the garage door and garage door opener for the bay that they will use. The agreement will provide $600 per month income to the city. City Attorney Kurt Glaser reminded council that they can cancel the lease after six months with 30 days’ notice if the ambulance service provided does not meet the city’s needs.

• Passed a resolution adopting and approving the City of Centerville COVID-19 Preparedness Plan. Under the June 5 executive order released

by Gov. Tim Walz, critical sector businesses, including government entities like cities, are now required to adopt a COVID-19 preparedness plan by June 29. Cities do not have to stop operations while creating a plan. The plan involves hygiene and respiratory etiquette; engineering

and administrative controls for social distancing; cleaning, decontamination and ventilation; prompt identification and isolation of sick persons; communications and training for supervisors and workers; management to implement the plan and protection and controls for pick-up, drop-off and delivery.

Communications will be provided for City Hall visitors.

City Clerk Teresa Bender encouraged visitors to wear a mask, and the city will also provide individually wrapped masks for free. She also encouraged City Hall employees to wear a mask.

“If you promote wearing (masks), others will also wear them,” Administrator/Engineer Mark Statz added. City Hall will reopen on June 26, but only for early voting purposes, Statz said.

• Approved an encroachment agreement for a fence at 7313 Old Mill Road. The landowner plans to locate the fence within the rear and side yard setbacks on the city’s right-ofway/drainage and utility easements.

• Approved an encroachment agreement for a fence at 1837 73rd St. The petitioner plans to locate the fence within the rear and side yard setbacks within the city’s right-ofway/drainage and utility easements.

“That’s (at a cost of $12,000) a

large amount of money to put into a fence that’s in our right of way, that could be lost if something were to happen,” Council Member Tom Wilharber cautioned.

• Approved an encroachment agreement for a fence at 1885 Prairie Drive. The property owner plans to locate the fence within the rear and side yard setbacks within the city’s right-of-way/drainage and utility easements.

• Approved a step increase for James Huisenga from Grade 6 Step 2 at $23.15 per hour to Grade 6 Step 3 at $24.43 per hour, following a successful performance review.

Funds are budgeted from the general fund and Public Works allocations.

• Heard an update from Statz that city staff has been busy hiring an interim fi re chief and a new police chief. The Police Governing Board will meet June 25 to approve the contract with the winning candidate. The Centennial Lakes Police Department heard from more than 25 candidates. The top six went through four interview panels, whose members arrived at a consensus pick. The interim fi re chief is expected to work with training co-chiefs as they ready for retirement of Harlan Lundstrom, he said.

• Heard an update from Statz on development activity throughout the city. Construction crews are back downtown, he said, but again stopped work after hitting another gas line.

Next week should bring even more road construction activity, especially on areas west of Centerville Road and north of Main Street on Centerville Road, he said. Statz said he hopes the downtown improvements will be wrapped up by Labor Day. “This will cap off the long pavement management plan the city has worked on for years,” he said.

• Heard an update from Statz on summer events in the city. He said he anticipates Music in the Park will resume with social distancing in Hidden Spring Park on July 7 at 6:30 p.m. The Waterski Show is expected to take place this summer, after Phase III of reopening was announced on June 10.

• Heard an update from Glaser that law courts opened on June 23 with a 6,000case backlog and that he would be working on his backlog of cases until at least the fall.

The council next meets at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 8, at City Hall, 1880 Main St. or by ZOOM videoconferencing.

Loretta Harding

PHONE: 651-407-1250 | EMAIL: classified@presspubs.com

12

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THE CITIZEN

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Rental/ Commercial EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY, all real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians; pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law.

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THE CITIZEN www.readthecitizen.com

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JULY 2, 2020 www.readthecitizen.com

‘Kids are still waiting’: Adoption and COVID-19

BY ELIZABETH CALLEN SHOREVIEW EDITOR

COVID-19 has impacted many aspects of our world, but one thing it hasn’t changed is that there are children in need of loving homes.

There are more than 900 children in Minnesota’s foster care system who are waiting to be placed with adoptive families, said Rachel Walstad. Walstad is the executive director of MN Adopt, a nonprofit organization that supports families throughout the various stages of the adoption process.

“The reality is that kids are still waiting,” she said. “The pandemic hasn’t changed that.”

It has, however, changed how state and private adoption agencies are currently operating.

“They’re working really hard to figure out what barriers exist because of our current situation and seeing how many of those they can remove,” Walstad said.

“Whether that’s moving more trainings online or having meetings between a family and a social worker via Zoom … Things like that allow families to continue to move through the process so that we can find homes for these kids.”

That means if families have been considering adoption, they shouldn’t let the pandemic postpone their plans — no matter where they are in the process.

“If people are still interested, they should be

contacting us (MN Adopt) or their county or their agency,” Walstad said.

“Just because COVID-19 is happening doesn’t mean that if they’ve been thinking about adoption, they have to wait till it’s all over to start the process. They can continue to move along as feels comfortable for them, because the need is definitely still there.”

Interest in adoption hasn’t waned since COVID-19 struck Minnesota. In fact, it has increased. At least, that is true at Children’s Home Society & Lutheran Social Services (CHSLSS), where Heidi Wiste is the director of foster care adoption.

“We haven’t seen a slowdown in any of our intake. We’ve actually seen people continue to come through (and) continue to inquire about foster care and adoption,” said Wiste.

That surprised CHSLSS staff, according to Wiste.

“We were thinking, ‘Well, who’s going to want to step forward now? People are losing their jobs. People are furloughed,’ and yet we have families who are like, ‘I’m home; I can complete my paperwork now,’ and ‘I’m home; I can do these trainings,’” she said. “They haven’t let the setbacks in what’s happening to them personally stop them from learning more and taking that next step.”

Modern technology, Wiste also noted, has helped make that continuation possible.

“Before, where we would have done most of this work in person, we’ve just moved everything

online. Although we don’t have that in-person contact, we do at least have a video component,” she said. “Although it has a few drawbacks … it has the added benefit of helping more people move through the process.”

Even amid the pandemic, children have been able to transition into their adoptive homes, though with proper precautions in place.

“We don’t want to put anybody at risk. When a placement is happening, we’re making sure that everybody is comfortable and safe to do that,” Wiste said. “These 905 children still need permanency, despite social distancing and despite COVID-19. It’s been really wonderful to see what we’ve still been able to do, despite how we aren’t able to do it in the most preferred manner.”

Shoreview resident Maren Badger and her husband, Casey, can attest to the power of adoption in their own lives. They have six children, four of whom they adopted from the foster care system. After the births of their two biological children, Maren said, she and Casey started looking into adoption as a means of growing their family.

“I’m a Type 1 diabetic, and I have been since I was 2. We knew at some point it wasn’t going to be possible for me to have children,” she said. “After 20-plus years of being a Type 1 diabetic, it just gets harder and harder.”

Maren and Casey originally considered international adoption, but the fi nancial and time demands proved too great.

“The travel expenses and all the other unknowns were overwhelming,” Maren said. “We had two small children. We couldn’t just up and leave them for six weeks at a time to make an adoption run to go to China or Russia or

SUBMITTED

The Badger Family poses for a photo. Pictured (from left to right) are Kaitlyn, Kinsley, Maren, Leshia, Amber, Casey, Jeremiah and Andrew.

wherever it may be.”

Though they were then unfamiliar with the foster-adoption system, they looked further into it after a friend planted the seed. “I can’t remember who it was, maybe someone at church. They said, ‘Well, why don’t you look at domestic (adoption)?’ I was like, ‘Oh, we can do that?’”

A Ramsey County adoption class gave Maren and Casey an overview of the process, but Maren said it also worried them.

“We were completely freaked out. We said, ‘Oh no, no, we can’t do this,’” she remembered. “But we went home, talked about it some more, kind of went back and forth for a while, but then just said, ‘You know what?

Let’s just go into foster care, and if a situation arises, then we’ll see where it goes.”

They got licensed for foster care through a private agency and were nearly immediately placed with two halfsiblings, both of whom have what Maren described as significant special needs.

“Everything that we had heard in the class that we were afraid of happening was happening. I was running late to work, and having to chase kids through the yard and so forth … It was a complete disaster at first,” she said. “But we bonded with them, and they bonded with us.”

Maren and Casey adopted one of the children, Amber, who will be 18 this summer.

Her birth brother was adopted by another family, for whom the Badgers provide respite care—short-term relief for primary caregivers— about two or three times a year.

After adopting Amber, the Badgers continued to open their home to children in the foster care system, caring for about 17 foster children over the years. When they received a call about two sisters—Kinsley and Leshia, then 3 and 5 years old—they immediately agreed to take them in. A few days later, the girls’ brother, Jeremiah, who had been living in a separate home, joined them.

“We took them all in, and they just fit so wonderfully with our family, and we got along with their birth mother really, really wonderfully,” Maren said. “We had a fabulous relationship with her.

She would come to our house on Christmas …

I’d text her, and she’d text me asking how the kids were doing that day. We’d send her their school pictures. It was a very positive relationship.”

The children’s birth mother had been working to regain custody, but she ultimately decided her children were better off in Maren and Casey’s hands.

Waiting Child

“She just decided she couldn’t do it. She had the first one at 15, and so she was a very, very young mother and didn’t have any support,” Maren said.

“She called us and asked if she could sign the kids over to us … For us, it was just one of those things where you say yes, no hesitation.”

In September 2018, their birth mother died of a drug overdose, which Maren said was “a gut punch” to their whole family.

“It was really, really hard for us and the kids,” she said. “But I think she knew, deep down, that were kids were okay, that they could see the life that she never had for herself. I think that meant a lot to her.”

Now, with six children all under the age of 18, the Badgers have a bigger family and busier dayto-day lives than they originally anticipated, but Maren said they couldn’t be happier. Her family’s experience with the foster care and adoption systems has helped dispel misconceptions she previously had, and she hopes to help dispel those misconceptions for others.

“I wish more people knew about (domestic adoption). I really do, because I’ve had people whisper in my ear, surprised, ‘They’re just normal kids.’ Yep, they are,” she said. “It’s been wonderful for our family, and it has exposed other families that we know to get involved in foster care as well because they’ve seen us do it and be successful, even with our struggles.”

Adrian, 14, is a charming and intelligent teen who enjoys drawing, watching movies and reading books.

He also loves Marvel and DC superheroes and Legos.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Adrian does well in a structured environment with clear expectations as well as an incentives-based approach. Adrian would do best with a family where there are no younger children. A family who has teenagers or young adults who have already been launched would be a good fit for Adrian. He needs a family who will stick with him. Only families from Minnesota are being considered at this time.

For more information about foster care and adoption in Minnesota, contact the following organizations: • MN Adopt: mnadopt.org; 612-861-7115

Submitted by MN Adopt, a state organization whose vision is to have zero kids waiting for permanent loving families, and mission to find and strengthen Minnesota adoptive, foster care and kinship families. To learn more, go to www.mnadopt.org.

• Children’s Home Society & Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota: chlss.org; 651-646-7771

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• Washington County Social Services: co.washington. mn.us/745.Adoption– Services; 651-275-7258

JULY 2, 2020

THE CITIZEN www.readthecitizen.com

15

R U O G N I R O N HO S E O R E H

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THE CITIZEN

JULY 2, 2020 www.readthecitizen.com FROM PAGE 1

PAUL DOLS | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Happy birthday parade

Now Open

Mary Ecker wears a tiara and holds a royal scepter as she greets dozens of friends and family members as they roll past her home in Withrow Saturday, June 27. The parade in honor of her 80th birthday was led by an honor guard from the Hugo American Legion.

A variety of decorated vehicles, both vintage and contemporary, traveled along a route starting at Salâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Angus Grill on Keystone Avenue and rolling past her home, just east of Withrow Elementary School. A table was set up near the road so that gifts could be dropped off by the passing vehicles.

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