Centennial/Spring Lake Park (CSLP) entered the state girls hockey tournament as one of three teams who had been ranked No. 1 and all seemed to have an equal chance of winning the title.
The Cougars wound up as the runner-up. They beat Holy Family 8-2 in the semifinal round, then lost to Hill-Murray, 4-3 in the finals,
although not before a thrilling three-goal rally in the last two-anda-half minutes.
“Those three goals at the end really showed our character and resilience as a team,” said Katie Ball, senior co-captain, “so I’m super proud of everyone for fighting until the end.”
The Cougars, coached by Sean Molin, finished 26-4-1. Hill-Murray (H-M) was 26-3-1 repeated as champion. The Cougars had one
previous runner-up finish, as Centennial, in 2018.
The strong finish ended a stretch of post-season frustration for the program. The Cougars are 76-10-3 the last three seasons, but with upset losses in the first round of state in 2025 and section finals in 2024.
SEE GIRLS HOCKEY, PAGE 11
Centennial’s long-range plan: What’s next
BY MADELINE DOLBY EDITOR
The Centennial School District continues to shape its long-range plan. The plan, referred to as Centennial Forward, will ensure that schools within the district remain vibrant, safe and ready to meet the needs of current and future students.
The plan also focuses on balancing educational priorities, fiscal responsibility and long-term stewardship of district resources.
Centennial School District Superintendent Chris Holmberg provided an update to the school board about where the plan currently stands, feedback received from community stakeholders and what the next steps are in the planning process.
“One of the things that really stood out in our long-range plan work was the focus on the desired daily experiences … Those desired daily experiences for staff, students and families are very difficult to do in our current educational environment,” Holmberg said.
Some of those experiences include the ability of students to have flexible learning and activity choices that meet their academic needs, access to technology to support educational needs and positive interactions and relationships with students and staff. Parents have asked to receive consistent communication from their child’s teacher, school and district and want their child’s school to be welcoming, safe and inclusive. Staff asked that they receive timely and cohesive communication and the necessary support to be successful.
Press Publications hosts 41st annual Wedding Show in March
the crowds or high fees of big city shows.
Patty Steele, general manager at Press Publications, says the show is especially appealing to first-time attendees.
event brings together top local vendors in a low-stress setting, giving brides and their guests a chance to explore everything from venues to cupcakes without
“First-timers are looking for an easy, convenient show that has a lot of good local vendors,” Steele said.
According to Steele, the Wedding Show offers just that.
Up to 25 vendors will be on hand, including longtime favorites like Unreal Arrangements, Midwest DJ and Creative License, as well as newcomers, such as two balloon décor companies.
Attendees can browse offerings from photographers, florists, DJs, venue coordinators, bakers, SEE WEDDING SHOW, PAGE 2
MSHSL | CONTRIBUTED
Avery Wagner fires the puck into the net against Holy Family Catholic in an 8-2 win.
COUNTY BRIEFS
Reserve your campground starting March 2
Campground reservations for the Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Campground and the Bunker Hills Campground open at 8 a.m. Monday, March 2. The campground at the Rice Creek Chain of Lakes is open from May 8 - Sept. 27. The campground at Bunker Hills is open from May 8 - Oct. 18. For more information or to make a reservation, visit www. anokacountyparks.com/camping. To make a reservation at the Bunker Hills Campground, call 763-324-3330. To reserve a campsite at the Rice Creek Chain of Lakes, call 763-324-3340.
Wargo Nature Center unveils new artwork
Two new art pieces have been installed outside the Wargo Nature Center’s front entrance to celebrate the beauty of the surrounding nature and wildlife.
One piece of art, painted by Jamie Myers, is a large circular design featuring a collection of animals and plants. The second, created by Bonnie Eenigenburb, is an open notebook, with pages appearing to fly away and features details of insects.
Wargo Nature Center is located at 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes.
WEDDING SHOW: Features vendors
FROM PAGE 1
décor specialists and club services, and can sample cakes and cupcakes, view floral arrangements and explore wedding apps. The show also features unique vendors such as Doggy Social, which provides professional wedding-day dog care, and a press-on nail art specialist.
“It’s the perfect opportunity to gather ideas, ask questions and envision a beautiful, personalized wedding right here in White Bear Lake,” said April Timp, the hotel’s catering and special events director.
The event also includes giveaways and prizes. Gary LaRue, an awardwinning vocalist and longtime emcee, will call out basket prizes
throughout the day, including a free room and dinner at the White Bear Country Inn. In addition to a cake walk that will offer other prizes, the first 50 brides will receive swag bags filled with goodies.
Brides and ticket holders can also enjoy lunch at Rudy’s with a $5 discount and enjoy the restaurant’s famous Bloody Mary bar.
“It's exciting that I get to showcase our venue as a seamless, one-stop wedding destination — ceremony space, reception, Rudy’s Redeye Grill for incredible food, and the Best Western for guest lodging — all working together in real time,” Timp said.
Brides can attend for free by registering in advance through Press Publication’s website. For more information, call 651-407-1213.
Brides who attend can meet with decor specialists, florists and
Doggy Social and a press-on nail artist.
PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
The second artwork, created by Bonnie Eenigenburg, appears to be pages flying away in the wind and showcases intricate details of insects.
One of the new pieces of art at the Wargo Nature Center is a large circular design featuring a collection of animals and plants. The piece was created by Jamie Myers, of Eye Candy Art.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
ONGOING EVENTS
LIVE TRIVIA
When: 6-8 p.m. Wednesdays
Where: Lino Lakes American Legion Post 566, 7731 Lake Drive
Details: General knowledge trivia. No limit on team sizes. Contact: 651- 783-0055
LINO LAKES TOASTMASTERS CLUB
When: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesdays
Where: Zoom
Details: Develop your communication and leaderships skills. Contact: Phyllis Moore: 763-268-9366
HUGO SENIOR CITIZENS PLAY ‘500’
When: 12:45 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 26; and the 1st, 3rd and 5th Thursday of every month Where: Rice Lake Centre, 6900 137th Street N. Details: Games begin at 12:45 p.m. Refreshments and coffee served. All senior citizens from the area invited. Contact: 651-592-0369 or barbconnolly1958@yahoo. com
CURRENT EVENTS
LAKESHORE QUILTERS GUILD MONTHLY MEETING
When: 6:30-9 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 24
Where: Shepherd of the Hills Church, rear entrance, Door G, 3920 Victoria St. N., Shoreview
Details: After a brief business meeting, Kristen Bender, a certified Quiltworx Instructor, will provide Judy Niemeyer’s techniques for achieving crisp points, smooth curves, and striking quilt blocks, when sewing Quiltworx patterns. Bender will provide other helpful tips and techniques when doing foundation paper piecing. Visitors welcome. Contact: lakeshorequiltersmn.org
WHIMSICAL WIGS CRAFTER AND CROCHETERS NIGHT
When: 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 3
Where: Centennial Library, 100 Civic Heights Drive, Circle Pines
Details: Crochet, decorate envelopes, silk flowers and wig packaging. To attend, RSVP to whimsicalwigs@gmail.com
Contact: whimsicalwigs@gmail.com
When: 9-10 a.m. Tuesday, March 3
Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes
Details: Themed story book reading and craft for kids ages 2+ with an adult. Contact: anokacountyparks.com
Oil change facility proposed near Lino Lakes, Centerville border
BY MADELINE DOLBY EDITOR
LINO LAKES — A Valvoline Instant Oil Change facility is proposed at Clearwater Commons, a three-lot commercial subdivision, located at 7104 21st Ave. N. on the border of Lino Lakes and Centerville.
In June 2025, the city approved a preliminary plat for Clearwater Commons and the final plat was approved in September 2025 (See “Clearwater Commons development proposes 3 commercial sites,” Quad Community Press, May 29, 2025). A site and building plan review for a Chipotle was also completed in conjunction with the preliminary plan.
The lot, referred to as Lot 3, is 0.64 acres in size and is zoned GB, general business. It is guided commercial per the city’s 2040 Comprehensive
Plan. The oil change facility will be approximately 1,462 square feet and will feature two service bays, office space and a restroom.
According to City Planner Katie Larsen, staff recommends the conditional use permit, submitted with the land use application, only be for automobile repair-minor, as defined in the City Code Section 100.7001(2) definitions.
An automobile repair-minor is defined as an establishment providing goods or services related to passenger motor vehicles such as car washes, repair businesses limited to minor engine repair, fluid changing, tire service and muffler repair and other uses of similar character, but not including uses defined as a major automobile business or automobile sales.
Lino Lakes Planning and Zoning Board Chair Michael Root asked James Douthit, Valvoline representative, about customer overnight parking and if it is a possibility.
“No. No vehicles are left onsite overnight,” said Douthit. “We don’t do any work outside. We don’t do any storage outside. Everything is inside the building.”
According to Douthit, Valvoline’s services take anywhere between 15 to 20 minutes and 90% of the services its employees complete are oil changes.
The Planning and Zoning Board recommended approval 6-0.
Editor Madeline Dolby can be reached at 651-407-1226 or quadnews@ presspubs.com.
Saturday at 4:30 pm Parish Community Center 6995 Centerville Rd, Centerville Sunday at 8:30 am St. John’s Site 14383 Forest Blvd N, Hugo
Sunday at 10:30 am Parish Community Center 6995 Centerville Rd, Centerville www.stgens.org 651‐429‐7937
CONTRIBUTED
The Valvoline Instant Oil Change Facility is proposed to be built within the Clearwater Commons development, located at 7104 21st Avenue North.
Birthdays are to celebrate
On March 1 our family and friends will celebrate my 90th birthday. That brings about memories.
When I was young I never imagined I would be operating newspapers and printing plants, or serving in leadership roles at various churches, nonprofits, service clubs and universities. This has led to our love of travel, with visits to every U.S. state and over 30 countries.
Two marriages, four children, five grandchildren and nine great grandchildren have given me a special understanding of joy and friendships.
I was born in Rochester in 1936. My father died before I was born and my mother died when I was 3 months old. I was the ninth child of a rural Olmsted County family. I was adopted by Dan and Edith Johnson of White Bear Township at the age of 6 months.
These were Depression years and many families lost their farms. I was very fortunate to meet my two birth sisters and six brothers as a young adult and go on to enjoy many family reunions and travel experiences with them. I am proud that seven of us served in the U.S. military. One brother is buried at Arlington National Cemetery.
It is hard to believe that I have lived 32,872 days. In that time a lot of things have changed. In 1936, eggs cost 37 cents a dozen, and a half gallon of milk cost 24 cents. A new car would cost a little over $700 and gasoline was 19 cents a gallon.
Pope Francis was born that year and so was Wilt Chamberlain, Buddy Holly and Burt Reynolds.
The New York Yankees won the World Series. The Packers were NFL Champions and the Red Wings were Stanley Cup Champions.
Franklin Roosevelt was our president. Pearl Harbor was attacked Dec, 7, 1941, the beginning of WWII. This event is locked in my memory.
We thank the Lord for our family, friends and all those who have prayed for us in times of need, and for excellent medical care in our community and state.
Opportunities in community newspaper publishing have surrounded us with encouragement, meaningful critiques and reader support.
I’m very thankful for the love and encouragement of my wife, Kathy for the past 57 years. We are both very proud of our children, their spouses and our generations of grandchildren.
I’m very thankful for all of the people in ministry, business, education and life who have guided me along.
Part of my philosophy of life is to just say “Yes” to opportunities, and remember to pat the back of the hand that feeds us.
Favorite cake
For several years our oldest daughter Julie made a popcorn cake for my birthday. For my 90th birthday I was asked what kind of cake I would like. My answer was, “The Popcorn Cake.”
I thought I would enclose the recipe in case you would like to introduce it to your family.
Popcorn cake:
-Mix 2 cups sugar, 1 cup light corn syrup, 1/2 cup butter, 1/4 cup water, and salt to taste.
-Stir and heat mixture to 250-300 degrees (between soft crack and hard crack stage) -Remove from heat. Add 1 tsp vanilla. Pour mixture over 5 quarts of popped popcorn. Add candy spice drops such as Dots, fruit flavored pectin slices like orange slices (cut in half), and/or peanuts. Stir well. -Pour into prepared angel food cake pan. Press down firmly on mixture.
-When cooled release cake onto a plate.
Gene Johnson is publisher emeritus of Press Publications.
OPINION
Talking rare diseases with the U of M
Rare Disease Day is observed every year on the last day of February to raise awareness for quality health care, equitable social opportunities and access to diagnosis for the 300 million people living with rare diseases worldwide.
For Rare Disease Day 2026, James Cloyd, director of the Center for Orphan Drug Research and a professor in the University of Minnesota College of Pharmacy, discusses rare diseases and the work he and the University do to advance our understanding of these conditions.
Q: What qualifies as a rare disease?
A: A rare disease is a disorder affecting a very small number of people. In the United States, a rare disease is defined by the 1983 Orphan Drug Act as affecting 200,000 or fewer individuals, which is a fixed number. In Europe, a rare disease is defined as a ratio if it affects fewer than one in 2,000 people. The difference in definition means that as the U.S. population grows, the medical conditions that qualify as rare will involve an ever-smaller percentage of the population.
• Limited to 350 words.
• Submissions must Include a full name, address and daytime phone number for verification.
• Letter writers must live, work or have another connection to Press Publications coverage area.
• Letter writers are limited to six letters per year and
Q: What makes rare diseases difficult to treat?
A: Rare diseases are difficult to treat for multiple reasons. For many diseases, the underlying biology of the diseases is poorly understood, if at all. In addition, because these diseases are uncommon, most clinicians have little experience in diagnosis of them. As a result, it often takes years to diagnose the condition, if ever. Even if the condition is diagnosed, there may be relatively few treatments, most of which are not cures, but rather chronic therapies that correct the underlying problem or treat symptoms.
Q: What is an “orphan drug,” and how does it relate to rare diseases?
A: An orphan drug is a medication that is used to treat a rare disease. More recently, the term “orphan product” has been used instead because cell and gene therapies, which are technically not drugs, are now being approved for treatment of rare diseases. In the United States, the Orphan Drug Act authorizes the FDA to designate a therapy as an orphan product if it meets two key requirements: 1) the condition for which the therapy is intended must affect 200,000 or fewer individuals, and 2) there is some evidence the therapy will actually treat the disease. It’s important to note that desig-
nation as an orphan product is not the same as FDA approval. The developer must still undertake all the preclinical and clinical studies needed to ensure that the product is safe and demonstrate it is effective. Once the studies are completed, the developer can submit a new drug application to the FDA, which will review the information. If the FDA finds that the application meets the criteria for safety and efficacy, it will then approve the product, thus allowing the developer to market it.
Q: Why is raising awareness about rare diseases important?
A: Increasing awareness of rare diseases is important because it benefits virtually all aspects of the issues related to such conditions. Clinicians are more likely to think about rare disease diagnoses, academic researchers are more inclined to study the rare diseases, companies become more interested in developing new therapies and patients and families will have a name for the health condition affecting a loved one and the incentive to create patient advocacy groups to promote research and offer support.
James Cloyd is the director of the Center for Orphan Drug Research and a professor in the University of Minnesota College of Pharmacy.
QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS | LETTER GUIDELINES
at least four weeks must lapse between publication. Exceptions may be made for rebuttal letters.
• Due to space limitations, letters that don’t address local issues are not guaranteed publication.
• Repeat letters by the same writer about the same subject matter will not be published.
• Submissions containing libelous or derogatory statements will not be published.
• Submissions containing facts not previously published in the Press must be accompanied by factual verification.
• All letters are subject to editing.
• Deadline is 5 p.m. Wednesday of the week prior to publication.
• To submit a letter, e-mail it to quadnews@presspubs. com, fax it to 651-429-1242 or mail or deliver it to: Press Publications, 4779 Bloom Ave., White Bear Lake, MN 55110.
About the Town Gene Johnson
Movers & Shakers
James Cloyd
Lino Lakes fire chief looks back on 2025 statistics
BY MADELINE DOLBY EDITOR
LINO LAKES —
“This year has been an exciting year for the new Fire Department with new growth, autonomy. It has brought new ideas and input from all fire staff,” Lino Lakes Fire Chief Dan L’Allier said.
L’Allier presented the fire department’s 2025 statistics to the City Council and city staff. He also touched on the changes the department has gone through within the last year.
In 2025, the department responded to 1,114 total calls. L’Allier said this is an increase from 2024, when the department responded to 809 calls.
Out of the 1,114 total calls, 622 were rescue and EMS calls followed by 183
public service calls. Last year, 896 calls occurred between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. and 218 calls came in between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m.
While the call totals increased in 2025, the number of fire calls the department received decreased. In 2025, the department responded to 26 fire calls. L’Allier said in 2024, the department responded to 33.
“These calls are in the city of Lino Lakes. They do not include our mutual aid (calls),” L’Allier said.
“These (fire calls) include grass fires, room and content fires, trash can fires. For a city of our size, that’s a pretty common number.”
The average response times for duty crew members is approximately four to five minutes, and the turnout time
• The Centerville City Council Feb. 12 regular meeting lasted 24 minutes. The first order of business was to approve an additional cost item for the Well No. 1 maintenance and rehabilitation project. Xcel Energy will replace the current pole-mounted transformer with a new one on the ground for $2,914.39. The council approved that action by a vote of 4-0 (Council Member David Kubat was absent and Council Member Linda Broussard Vickers attended via Zoom). The well maintenance and rehabilitation project to remove sand and restore the well is in its second phase. The current aerial transformer that provides electricity is most likely the original one. That transformer is located on an older pole that staff recommended removing. It will be relocated to the ground, due to the condition of the pole and transformer. Relocating the transformer to the ground will make certain the transformer will not be knocked down in high winds. Staff asked Xcel Energy for an estimate to relocate the pole and transformer. Xcel initially reported that the normal cost for replacing the transformer was nearly $5,000. However, old equipment credits were provided to new cost formulae, which reduced the cost to $2,914.39, to be financed by the city’s water fund.
• Recently, the city left the Centennial Lakes Fire District and contracted with the Spring Lake Park, Blaine, Mounds View (SBM) Fire Department. SBM requested that the city switch ambulance providers from M Health Fairview to Allina Health. The reasons for the request were due to the change in staffing at Station No. 3, the uniformity of the surrounding cities’ ambulance service and the updated medical direction of the SBM Fire Department. “The city now contracts with SBM, (which uses) Allina Health,” said City Administrator Athanasia Lewis. “We were happy with M Health, but this is operational, and we need to switch.”
• Equinox Development LLC requested a tax abatement from the city and from Anoka County for its proposed development project at 7181 21st Ave. N. As recommended, council approved an application for a tax abatement, agreement for securing Northland Securities services and escrow agreement with Equinox Development. The city’s finance consultant will present her analysis at the Feb. 26 meeting.
• During the planning session with BS&A staff, it was discovered that the city’s proposal to upgrade its software was missing a module, laserfiche integration, which scans vendor invoices into the accounts payable system and incorporates them into the city’s
is one minute.
Perhaps one of the biggest changes in 2025 was the transition to a standalone fire department and rebranding. Like the Lino Lakes Police Department, the fire department worked with staff to help create a new patch, badge and graphics for the department’s vehicles.
“There has been a strong push to make it relate to Lino Lakes as much as we can,” L’Allier said. “Our patch has got the Blue Heron in it. Our badge has got the Blue Heron in it. Our patch was hand-drawn by one of our paid on-call firefighters.”
The department also hired a fulltime fire chief and fire administrator, and expanded the duty crew. The department jumped from having 22 paid on-call firefighters to 29 and from
laserfiche records retention system. All the city’s records are kept on laserfiche – it’s the city’s official repository, Lewis said. The cost for the module would increase the annual agreement costs by $1,050 and potentially delay the project by a day. If another day is added to the implementation schedule, there may be a slightly higher fee, as the project is based on days of installation and training. BS&A remains the least expensive vendor despite the added charge. Council approved the addendum and its invoice. Financing will come from the capital improvement, water and sewer funds.
• Did you know that one brown bat can eat up to 1,000 mosquitoes in an hour? asled Council Member Anita Rios. “Maybe with bat houses, the mosquito population can go down naturally instead of through pesticides,” she said. A local Scout may help the city welcome bats and reduce mosquitoes. The Parks and Recreation Committee received a proposal at its most recent meeting from Logan Hazzard for an Eagle Scout project that would include the construction of three poles to support two bat houses attached to their tops. Hazzard said he would build the structures and provide them to the city for installation in several parks. However, Hazzard said he would not be able to install the houses himself until he turns 18, which is a requirement of the regulations of his project. He also said that he would not be able to maintain the houses due to school commitments. The committee asked the public works director to provide a list of suitable locations for the structures within the park system. The public works department responded that if the Scout could not install the three-post poles, they would alternatively place the bat houses (six in total) in three suitable locations this year as staff time permits. Per recommendation, council unanimously approved the installation of bat houses as part of the project. “I think the bat house is a great idea, and I’d be willing to contribute to (help pay) the cost,” said Council Member Russ Koski.
• With spring comes requests to use city parks. The Parks and Recreation Committee reviewed four recent requests for use of Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park,
10 duty crew firefighters to 15. The fire department started covering both sides of Lino Lakes. Shifts expanded to cover seven days a week instead of Monday through Friday.
L’Allier said this year the department has carried out more community engagement than it has in the last decade by visiting day cares and schools, going to The Rookery and participating in events like Touch-a-Truck.
“All of those things are huge,” L’Allier said. “The community’s been very open when they find out we are now standalone, and they’re very excited to hear about it.”
Editor Madeline Dolby can be reached at 651-407-1226 or quadnews@ presspubs.com.
including those from several nonprofit organizations that have used the park without incident in the past and all of which take pride in the community. The committee noted that one request came from a local family that has lived in the community for a long time.
The applicants are:
- Scout Troop 136 for Feb. 7
- Centennial Early Childhood Family Education for May 11
- Derksen graduation for June 14
- Centennial Community Education – soccer on Tuesday evening from June 14-Aug. 4.
Council approved the Parks and Recreation Committee recommendation for the four Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park usage requests.
• In her administrator’s report, Lewis noted that the Centennial Lakes Police Department is seeking to hire a police officer and a community service officer. Please contact CLPD at 763-427-1212 for more information.
• Golden noted that the 2026 Fete des Lacs parade has been scheduled for Saturday, July 18. The theme will be “Back to the 80’s.” Start scrounging now for those giant shoulder pads and big hairstyles.
The council next meets at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 26, at City Hall, 1880 Main Street.
Loretta Harding
PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES
be returned unopened.
Sealed bids will be received at the Lino Lakes City Hall, 600 Town Center Parkway, Lino Lakes, MN 55014 until 1:00 p.m., Friday, March 13, 2026 at which time bids will be publicly opened, reviewed, and read aloud. Envelopes containing bids must be sealed, marked City of Lino Lakes Public Works Facility – Bid Package #1 and the Bid Category No. being bid with attention to Michael Grochala – Community Development Director. The name and address of the Bidder must be shown on the outside of the envelope. The date and time of the bid is to be noted on the label. Bids received after this time will not be accepted and will be returned unopened.
Bidding documents including the Proposal Form, Drawings and Specifications will be on file at the office of the Construction Manager: RJM Construction 830 Boone Avenue North Golden Valley, MN 55427
952-837-8600
A pre-bid meeting will be conducted at the existing Lino Lakes Public Works Facility, 1189 Main St, Lino Lakes, MN 55014, on February 27th, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. If you plan to attend the meeting, we do ask that you pre-register via email with nick.driessen@rjmconstruction.com by EOD February 25th, 2026.
HOW TO GET PLANS:
and March 3, 2026.
CITY OF LINO LAKES ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
Project: Lino Lakes Public Works 1189 Main St, Lino Lakes, MN 55014
Owner: City of Lino Lakes 600 Town Center Parkway Lino Lakes, MN 55014
Architect: Oertel Architects 1795 St. Clair Avenue St. Paul, MN 55105 Construction Manager: RJM Construction 830 Boone Avenue North Golden Valley, MN 55427
NOTICE TO QUALIFIED CONTRACTORS – Notice is hereby given that the City of Lino Lakes will receive sealed bids for Bid Package #1 from qualified bidders until 1:00 p.m., Friday, March 13, 2026 at Lino Lakes City Hall, 600 Town Center Parkway, Lino Lakes, MN 55014. The project work scope consists of a new public works facility for the City of Lino Lakes. Bid Package No. 1 consists of cast-in-place concrete, precast wall panels & precast plank, structural steel materials and structural steel erection. Bid Package #2 will include the remaining scopes of work for the project. Bid Package #2 to be advertised at a future date. A bid security in the amount of 5% of the base bid will be required to accompany bids. Bids received after that time will not be accepted and will
Complete digital Bidding Documents are available at www.questcdn.com for $15.00 by inputting project #10040972 on the website’s Project Search page. Paper Bidding Documents may also be viewed at RJM Construction, 830 Boone Avenue N, Golden Valley MN 55427 or can be purchased from National Reprographics by calling 651-779-8000. Complete set(s) of hard copy Bidding Documents can be obtained through National Reprographics as noted in AIA Document A701, Article 1. A digital download of the documents will be available for purchase for access with check made payable to National Reprographics. They are also available at any of the building exchanges. Plans will be available on or about February 20th, 2026.
Make Bids in duplicate in exact accordance with the proposal form in the Project Manual, and sign in long-hand. No oral, telegraphic or fax bids will be accepted or considered.
Combined bids including multiple bid categories will be accepted. However, in order to be considered bidders must also submit separate individual bids in addition to the combined bid. Combined bids will not be accepted if individual bids are not submitted. Each separate bid or combined bid must appear alone on a bid form and submitted in separate envelopes.
Submit with each bid a certified check, bank money order or acceptable bidders bond issued by a surety meeting city requirements payable to the City of Lino Lakes in the amount equal to five percent (5%) of the total bid. For requirements, please reference specification section 00 21 00 –Supplementary Instructions to Bidders.
All bids will be evaluated by the Owner, the Architect and the Construction Manager. The Owner reserves the right to accept any bid or reject any or all bids, or parts of such bids and waive informalities or irregularities in bidding. Successful bidders will be required to furnish satisfactory Labor and Material
Payment Bond, Performance Bond, and Certificates of Insurance and a signed contract within 10 days of award of contract. No bidder may withdraw his/her bid for at least 60 days after the scheduled bid opening. The successful bidder must be a “responsible contractor.” The term “responsible contractor” means a contractor as defined in Minnesota Statutes Section 16C.285, subdivision 3. Any prime contractor, subcontractor, or motor carrier that does not meet the minimum criteria or fails to comply with the verification requirements is not a responsible contractor and is not eligible to be awarded a construction contract for the project or to perform work on the project. A prime contractor, subcontractor, or motor carrier that makes a false statement under oath verifying compliance with the minimum criteria will be ineligible to be awarded a construction contract on the project and the submission of a false statement may result in termination of a contract awarded to a prime contractor, subcontractor, or motor carrier that submits the false statement. A prime contractor shall include in its verification of compliance a list of all its first-tier subcontractors that it intends to retain for work on the project. Before execution of a construction contract, a prime contractor shall submit a supplemental verification under oath confirming that all subcontractors and motor carriers that the prime contractor intends to use to perform project work have verified to the prime contractor, through a signed statement under oath by an owner or officer, that they meet the minimum criteria for a responsible contractor.
The schedule for the project is to commence work May 2026 with substantial completion scheduled for July 2027. Work will be completed according to the preliminary project construction schedule issued in the Bid Documents.
Please direct all inquiries to Nick Driessen, RJM Construction at 612-6155965.
Published three times in the Quad Community Press on February 10, 17 and 24, 2026.
CITY OF LINO LAKES
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning & Zoning Board of the City of Lino Lakes, Minnesota will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, March 11, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Lino Lakes City Hall, 600 Town Center Parkway, Lino Lakes, Minnesota, to consider the following: • Otter Crossing South 2nd Addition - PID #24-31-22-13-0009; 24-31-22-13-0010 - Preliminary Plat for a two (2) lot commercial subdivision. For further information regarding the above items, please contact City Planner, Katie Larsen, at 651-982-2426.
The agenda and staff report will be available end of day Friday, March 6, 2026 on the City website at https://linolakesmn.portal.civicclerk.com/ Anyone wishing to be heard regarding these items will be given the opportunity at the time of the hearing. If you have any questions or need special accommodations, please call 651-982-2400.
Roberta Colotti, CMC, City Clerk Published one time in the Quad Community Press on February 24, 2026.
The Centennial Lakes Police Department reported the following selected incidents:
• Officers were dispatched Feb. 11 to the 9400 block of Lexington Avenue in Lexington for a possible violation of a domestic abuse no-contact order. Officers took information for the report and determined there was sufficient evidence to charge the suspect for the violation.
• Police took a phone call Feb. 11 regarding a runaway juvenile in the 7200 block of Mill Road in Centerville.
• Police received a phone call Feb. 13 regarding fraud in the 1700 block of Peltier Lake Drive in Centerville.
• Officers initiated a traffic stop Feb. 13 near the intersection of Centerville Road and Sorel Street in Centerville after observing a violation.
• Officers were dispatched Feb. 13 to a property damage crash that occurred near the intersection of Main Street and Shad Avenue in Centerville. No injuries were reported.
• Police responded Feb. 14 to a report of an illegal burn in the 1600 block of Lakeland Circle in Centerville.
• Officers initiated a traffic stop Feb. 14 near the intersection of Hamline Avenue and Edgewood Road in Lexington after observing a violation.
• Officers initiated a traffic stop Feb. 15 near the intersection of North Road and Galaxy Drive in Circle Pines after observing a violation. The vehicle was towed from the scene.
• Police were dispatched Feb. 16 to a delayed report of a property damage accident in the 6900 block of 21st Ave. S. in Centerville.
• Police responded Feb. 16 to a report of package theft in the 9400 block of Lexington Avenue in Lexington.
• Officers responded Feb. 17 to a property damage crash in the 7000 block of 20th Avenue in Centerville.
WEEKLY WAG
Scarlett is definitely a people dog. She is an absolute sweetheart and the best companion. Scarlett, 2, wants to be with her people at all times, and she is friendly to everyone she meets. Scarlett is a German shepherd/ Labrador retriever mix, and she weighs 55 pounds. Her one blue eye and one brown eye indicate she may be part husky as well. Scarlett arrived at Ruff Start Rescue from a local reservation partner. Scarlett enjoys being outside, exploring and patrolling, so a forever home with a securely fenced yard would suit her very well. She is house-trained and she knows her basic commands, but she sometimes has a mind of her own, so she would do well with someone who is loving and patient and offers consistent, positive reinforcement. Scarlett is very treat-motivated, so that helps with her training.
If you are looking for an affectionate best friend, then Scarlett is the
The Lino Lakes Police Department reported the following selected incidents:
• Officers and fire personnel responded Feb. 9 to a structure fire in the 2100 block of Itasca Circle. The officers evacuated the home and nearby residence and were cleared from the scene by fire personnel.
• An officer took a harassment report by phone Feb. 9 in the 100 block of Morgan Lane. The officer investigated and determined nothing criminal took place, and the incident was documented.
• While on patrol Feb. 9 in the 8300 block of Lake Drive, an officer stopped a vehicle because the registered owner had an outstanding warrant and a canceled license. The driver was arrested and booked at jail.
• An officer was dispatched Feb. 9 to a report of damage to property in the 8100 block of Haywood Drive. The investigation is ongoing.
• An officer took an identity theft report Feb. 9 in the 2100 block of Island Court and provided the caller with a case number.
• While on patrol Feb. 10 in the 7600 block of Main Street, an officer stopped a vehicle for speeding. The driver was subsequently arrested for DWI.
• An officer was dispatched Feb. 10 to a fitness center in the 7600 block of Village Drive for an unwanted person. The officer spoke to all parties and the subject left without incident.
• Officers took a phone call report Feb. 10 of a motor vehicle crash that occurred near the intersection of Centerville Road and Birch Street in which one driver left the scene. The incident is under investigation.
• Officers responded Feb. 11 to a domestic assault incident in the 100 block of Morgan Lane. An adult female was arrested and booked in jail for domestic assault.
• An officer responded Feb. 11 to a business parking lot in the 700 block of Apollo Drive on a
CALENDAR BRIEF
companion for you. If you are interested in learning more about Scarlett or adopting her, please fill out an application at www. ruffstartrescue.org. Once your application is received, Ruff Start Rescue will contact you as soon as possible.
report of a hit-and-run. The officer investigated the incident and suspect information is unavailable at this time.
• Officers responded Feb. 12 to a report of a fight in the 7500 block of Fourth Avenue. After investigation, two juvenile females were cited for fifth-degree assault.
• An officer responded Feb. 12 to a report of an attempted scam in the 900 block of Birch Street. The caller did not provide any personal information and there was no financial loss. The officer investigated but a suspect was not identified.
• Officers were informed by a neighboring agency Feb. 13 that a male would be driving in the city with an active warrant. Officers located the male in the 700 block of Main Street, arrested him and transported him to jail.
• An officer responded Feb. 13 to a driving complaint. The officer located the vehicle in the 7700 block of Lake Drive and issued the driver a warning for driving conduct.
• An officer was dispatched Feb. 13 to a traffic complaint near the intersection of Lake Drive and Aqua Lane. The driver was experiencing a medical incident and was assisted home by the officer. A driver evaluation form was completed by the officer.
• Officers responded Feb. 15 to a loud banging noise at a hotel in the 500 block of Apollo Drive. Officers investigated and found a juvenile was hitting a ball against the door of his hotel room and said he would stop.
• An officer observed a suspicious vehicle Feb. 15 at a closed park in the 6600 block of West Shadow Lake Drive. The officer advised the driver of the park hours and the vehicle left without incident.
Learn how to support pollinators at upcoming workshop
The Vadnais Lake Area Water Management Organization and Blue Thumb will host a workshop from 6-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 4. Attendees will learn more about how they can support pollinators and water quality by switching to a turf alternative like a bee lawn or a lowmaintenance turf.
The workshop will include a presentation, time for questions,
online resources to help with turf alternative projects, and local grant opportunities to support these projects.
Registration is required. Learn more at bluethumb.org. The workshop will take place at Vadnais Heights City Hall, 800 County Road E East.
Where cod meets craft beer: A fish fry done right
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
In honor of fish fry season, the Press will feature some Readers' Choice Best of the Press winners and finalists of the “Fish Fry” category in our coverage area.
When Lent rolls around, fish fries pop up everywhere. But locals will tell you there’s a difference between a fish fry and one of “the best” fish fries.
Manitou Bar & Kitchen, located at 2171 Fourth Street in White Bear Lake, secured the finalist title in the White Bear Press Readers’ Choice Best of the Press Contest in both 2025 and 2024.
The centerpiece of Manitou’s Fish Fry is cod — but not just any cod.
Bresee says the restaurant prides itself on using a lighter, flakier, slightly sweeter variety that sets it apart from the typical fare. Then comes the batter.
Each piece is hand-battered to order using Farm Day Farmhouse Ale from Lift Bridge Brewing Company. The Stillwater brewery’s citrus-forward beer adds a subtle brightness to the crisp exterior.
“We are very proud of our fish fries,”
“It sets us apart,” Bresee said, adding, “Our fries are no joke, and neither is our homemade tartar sauce.”
Jenn Bresee General Manager, Manitou Bar & Kitchen
“We are very proud of our fish fries,” said General Manager Jenn Bresee.
Customers can enjoy Manitou’s popular menu item — fish and chips — year-round. However, during the Fish Fry Friday season, which falls on Feb. 18 through April 2 this year, there are two options: A two-piece lunch special from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and an all-you-can-eat dinner from 3 to 10 p.m.
Did you know?
Every spring, as the 40 days of Lent begin on Ash Wednesday, church halls and restaurants around town fill with the smell of sizzling batter and fresh coleslaw. Fish fry season is more than a culinary tradition; it’s rooted in centuries-old Christian practice.
Reviewers online seem to agree that Manitou’s fish fry should be one of the top awardees in the Fish Fry category. One reviewer wrote, “Our small family subgroup visited this restaurant, and everyone was quite impressed and very pleased. My wife and I had the fish and chips and found it outstanding. Even the French fries were not merely good, they were as outstanding as the battered cod.”
Another reviewer wrote, “I've heard nothing but fantastic things about the all-you-can-eat fish fry, so that's what actually brought me here. Fantastic!
During Lent, which leads up to Easter, many Christians abstain from eating meat on Fridays as a form of penance and reflection. Because fish has historically been classified differently from meat in church dietary rules, it became the centerpiece of Friday
meals. Over time, parishes turned simple meatless meals into festive gatherings, transforming a religious observance into a beloved community ritual. Today’s fish fries blend faith, food and fellowship.
Fish was hot, crispy and not greasy; also served with tartar sauce. You also get a generous amount of fries, which were great ... I love a good zesty fry. Coleslaw was tasty as well.”
There’s something nostalgic about a Friday fish fry — the crunch of batter, the squeeze of lemon, the hum of conversation around a crowded table. At Manitou Bar & Kitchen, that tradition is elevated with careful sourcing, local collaboration and a made-to-order approach that keeps the fish crispy on the hot plates as
they leave the kitchen. For Bresee and her team, it’s not just about serving cod. It’s about serving a seasonal ritual that keeps guests coming back year after year. Reservations are strongly encouraged and can be made online at www.manitougrill.com.
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or whitebearnews@presspubs.com.
Manitou Bar & Kitchen’s Fish Fry features cod that is hand-battered to order using Farm Day Farmhouse Ale from Lift Bridge Brewing Company.
part-time custodial work at rest areas and state parks in Minn esota. Apply onlin e at greenviewmn.com or call 651/63919 13
White Bear Township NOW HIRING Seasonal Ma intenance Worker Up to 40hrs/wk Mon-Fri 7a3:30p. Applications available at Township Admin Office 128 1 Hammond Rd, White Bear Township or at www.whitebeartownsh ip.org
CLASSIFIEDS
MAHTOMEDI VOLUNTEER FOR CITY COMMISSIONS
The City of Mahtomedi is accepting applications from residents interested in serving on advisory commissions. Openings for three-year appointments exist on the Planning Commission, Parks Commission, Environmental and Finance Commission. The Commissions serve as advisory bodies making recommendations within their areas of responsibility to the City Council.
If you are interested in serving the community in any of these capacities, please contact City Hall at 651-426-3344 for an application form. Applications are also available on the City’s website at www.mahtomedimn.gov. Applications will be taken through March 2, 2026.
JERENE ROGERS CITY CLERK
RECYCLE RECYCLE RECYCLE RECYCLE RECYCLE
Budget Tree Service is hiring. All levels of experience are welcome to apply. Willing to train the right candidates. Competitive pay and benefits. Year round employment.
651-426-8660
Seasonal Maintenance Worker
White Bear Township is accepting applications for Seasonal Maintenance Worker positions to assist in routine maintenance work including, but not limited to, the following: general maintenance of parks, streets, water, storm water, sanitary sewer, etc. Up to 40 hours per week, Monday – Friday, 7 AM to 3:30 PM (subject to change between Memorial Day – Labor Day).
Salary range from $18 to $21/ hour, depending on qualifications. A valid driver’s license with a good driving record is essential. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and be able to pass pre-employment drug screening.
Applications are available Monday – Friday, 8 AM to 4:30 PM, at Township Administrative Office, 1281 Hammond Road, White Bear Township, MN 55110 or online at www.whitebeartownship. org. Application deadline: Open until positions are filled.
Submitting Public Notices
Contact: Lisa, Myrna or Evelyn E-Mail: Legals@presspubs.com Call:
CITY OF MAHTOMEDI SEASONAL FULL TIME EMPLOYMENT MAINTENANCE WORKER
The City of Mahtomedi has openings for up to (4) full time Seasonal Maintenance Worker positions. All positions are for 67 days. Duties include assisting the Public Works Department with street, water, sewer, and park maintenance. Must have a High School diploma or GED, the ability to lift/move 25-100 Lbs., be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license. The pay range is from $18.00/hr. to $20.00/ hr. depending on qualifications. Applications will be taken until positions are filled. Applications can be obtained at City Hall, 600 Stillwater Road, Mahtomedi, MN 55115 or at its website at www. mahtomedimn.gov. Mahtomedi is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
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Running or not Titled or not Will pick up. Cash in exchange. Sell now before prices fall. Call Dan at 612/720-2142
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EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY, all real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Ho using Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preferen ce limitation or discriminat ion based on race co lo r, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or nationa l origin, or an intention, to make any such preferen ce, limitation or discrimination.”
SCHOOL BRIEF
Centennial Elementary welcomes new principal Pete Knoebel will officially take over as the new principal of Centennial Elementary. Knoebel has served as the school’s interim principal since last July. The formal recommendation for his hire will be presented to the Centennial School Board at its regular meeting on
Monday, March 26. Knoebel brings 25 years of experience in education. He has served as a teacher, coach, dean of students and assistant principal. Before stepping into the role of principal at Centennial Elementary, Knoebel spent the last five years as the assistant principal at Centennial Middle School.
GIRLS HOCKEY: ‘I’m super proud of everyone for fighting until the end’
FROM PAGE 1
They were 0-2 at state in 2023, and in 2021 they were section champ but had to forfeit at state due to Covid cases.
“I think that (history) motivated us,” said Ball. “We felt like a lot of people have maybe underestimated us.”
“Obviously we want to get to the top of the mountain, but we are climbing,” Molin said. “We are making progress.”
The Cougars had split two games with H-M in the regular season. In fact, they played all the other teams ranked in the top five and went 6-4-1 against them.
Selected for the all-tournament team were defensemen Annabelle Buccicone and Brook Ueland, forward Grace Laager and goalie Kaia Wieland.
Cougars 7, Farmington 5
The Cougars erupted for five third-period goals and needed them to prevail 7-5 over a No. 7 seeded Farmington team that would not quit.
Not until Lillian Renslow, with her back to the empty net, swatted the puck into the cords with 17 seconds left could the Cougars finally breathe easily. Their 6-3 lead with five minutes left had been melted to 6-5 when Farmington scored with the goalie pulled and again on a power play.
Alaina Gnetz netted her 34th and 35th goals while Madeline Wolter came through with her seventh and eighth. Annabelle Buccicone and Jozie Kelzenberg had the other goals. Avery Wagner, Ella Perrault and Laager each made two assists, and Ueland, Mia Sutch and Wolter one each.
Farmington’s Jenna Goblirsch and Taylor Risch, each had two goals and three assists.
Cougars 8, Holy Family 2
This matchup looked dead even going in, as the two teams had split four previous games with just one goal difference. But CSLP drubbed the Fire 8-2 with eight players scoring on 29 shots against an all-state goalie, Kayla Swarthout.
“One of our best games for sure,” said Ball. “We just really focused on throwing everything at the net from all angles because we knew their goalie is solid. Wanted to get her on her heels a little.”
Mia Sutch scored just 55 seconds into the game with a howitzer just under the bar. Holy Family answered with a power play goal.
In the second period, a lucky goal by Grace Laager
Cougar wrestlers strong at section
The Centennial wrestlers were runnersup in the Section 4AAA team tournament Feb. 13, highlighted by an upset of No. 6 ranked Mounds View. Their momentum continued in the individuals tournament on Saturday, as six Cougars qualified for the state tournament. Headed for state starting Thursday are section champs Andrew Person and Jack Grygelko and runnersup Jack Ruegsegger, ClayWick, Evan Boesch and Brayden Boesch.
In the team tourney, the Cougars, coached by Chase Steffen, beat Roseville Area 63-8 and Mounds View 34-26,
then lost to No. 2 ranked host Stillwater 55-15 in the finals. They finished 19-13 in duals. Against Mounds View (18-3), the Cougars took a 15-0 lead on Wick’s 5-4 win and pins by Evan Boesch and Grygelko. With a major decision by Logan Fu and Person and a tech fall by Ruegsegger, the Cougars led 28-26 going into the 285-pound match. Brayden Boesch pinned one of the Mustangs’ top wrestlers, Robert Essie, in the first period, Stillwater (25-2) lived up to its billing with six pins and four tech falls against the Cougars, who got wins from Grygelko, Perso and Brayden Boesch (pin).
In the individuals at White Bear Lake, Grygelko was champion at 121 pounds and Person at 172 pounds, each capped by a pin in the finals. Wick at 107, Evan Boesch at 114 pounds, Ruegsegger at 152 pounds and Brayden Bosch at 285 pounds all reached the finals and lost to Stillwater opponents. Placing third were Easton Martin at 127 pounds, Benjamin Johnson at 145 pounds and Grant Moffat at 160 pounds. Placing fourth were Fu at 133 pounds and Carter Stuckey at 189 pounds.
Bruce Strand
— her shot sailed over the net but caromed off the glass, hit the goalie’s back and then her skate, and trickled into the net — started a four-goal burst. Buccicone and Gnetz smoked top-shelf goals and Josie Kenzenberg, rushing the net, made it 5-1 with another dart.
In the third, Ball, Wolter and Avery Wagner joined the scoring parade. Holy-Family’s Miss Hockey finalist Maddy Kimbrel netted her second goal of the game to make it 8-2.
Cougar goalie Kaia Wieland, after yielding five goals against Farmington, bounced back to stop 31 of 33 shots.
Hill-Murray 4, Cougars 3
The Cougars went down, but went down swinging, in the finals. Trailing 4-0 with three minutes left, CSLP pulled the goalie and pumped in three goals in the last 2 1/2 minutes, the final one with four seconds left, to make it final 4-3 score. “If we would have had just one more minute,” mused Perrault. After blistering the nets for 15 goals in the first two games at state, the Cougars were blanked for 48 1/2 minutes with Pioneer freshman goalie Piper Tam making 33 saves.
Lillian Renslow started the last-ditch rally by deflecting a shot from far out past Tam at 14:29, followed by close-range goals by Kelzenberg at 15:21 and by Kelzenberg again at 16:56. Getting assists were Buccicone, Ella Perrault, Kelzenberg, Laager and Gnetz.
It was all Hill-Murray before that with goals Jaycee Chatlain, Emily Pohl, Reese Unklesbay and Sophie Olson against Wieland, who made 25 saves.
Cougar swimmers win section, gain state in 9 events
The Centennial swimmers were Section 7AA champions Saturday and qualified for the state meet in nine events. Centennial tallied 404 points, Duluth East 358 and Anoka 309 to lead the eight-team field.
“I couldn’t be more proud of this group of athletes, in all that we have endured,” said Coach Pete Crawford. They put forth “truly an epic performance” at the section to capture their first section title.
Centennial won the medley relay (1:36.05, team record) with Benno Schuhbauer, Sawyer Celotta, Grant Page and Eliot Shepard.
Isaac Nguyen won the 200 free (1:47.70) and placed second in the butterfly (54.28). Schuhbauer won the medley (1:54.16, team record) and was second in the backstroke (51.61, team record).
The Cougars were second in the
200-freestyle relay (1:28.04, team record) with Page, Celotta, Nguyen and Shepard, and second in the 400 free relay (3:14.50, team record) with Page, Nguyen, Chretien and Schuhbauer. The top two in each event advance to state. Also qualifying by beating the standard were Celotta with third place in breaststroke (59.57) and Page with fourth place in the 50 free (21.70). Also reaching finals were: Brennan Nelson, third, backstroke; Shepard, fifth, 50 freestyle; Celotta, fourth, 100 freestyle; Brendan Chretien, fifth, 200 free, and sixth, 500 free; Blake Thorson, fifth, diving; Ethan Stegora, fourth, backstroke, and sixth, butterfly; Eli Hoerl, seventh, medley; Shepard, seventh, 100 free; and Evan Lautenschlager, seventh, 500 free.
Bruce Strand
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Annabelle Buccicone
Centennial Hockey February 24, 2026
Annabelle Buccicone, sophomore defenseman on the Centennial/Spring Lake Park hockey team, helped shut down opposing teams all season, and heated up as an offensive threat during the Cougars’ run to a state runner-up finish. Buccicone had at least one point in all six games, totaling two goals and two assists in the section tournament, and four goals and two assists in the state tournament. She had 12 goals and 15 assists for the season.
Centennial state qualifiers(from left): Jack Ruegsegger, Clay Wick, Andrew Person, Jack Grygelko, Evan Boesch and Brayden Boesch.
MSHSL | CONTRIBUTED
Jozie Kelzenberg (14) and teammates celebrated one of her two late goals against Hill-Murray.
LONG-RANGE PLAN: Higher priority items to be narrowed down in the future
In addition to gathering input from the district’s design team, community input team, staff and school board members, the district invited the community to share feedback through a survey. A total of 234 responses were collected between October 2025 and January 28, 2026.
“Safety and security was one (theme) that resonated with every group. Athletics and extracurricular activities … there is a little bit of a tug and pull with this one. Comments expressed support for expanding facilities because of student engagement, and there was a concern that came through our feedback loop about being really cognizant about keeping varsity sports on campus,” Holmberg explained.
Feedback also highlighted the need for modern, flexible learning spaces as well as the district’s ability to prepare for a growing population and address current overcrowding. Stakeholders also appreciated that the plan felt “well-rounded” and included spaces the entire community could use, not just students, during school hours.
A deeper look into the plan’s priorities
One of Centennial Forward’s priorities includes updating facilities to improve capacity. Some key improvements include expanding classrooms and learning commons to support both small-group and whole-class learning, as well as interdisciplinary teaching; expanding cafeterias to increase seating capacity and enhance the lunch experience; addressing
overcrowding and scheduling conflicts; restoring STEM labs and creating flexible learning spaces for group projects and interventions; and creating and sustaining career pathway centers for computer science, manufacturing and medical/health care programs at the secondary level.
A second priority stated in the plan is facility maintenance and fiscal responsibility. According to the district, Centennial has $52 million in identified facility maintenance needs over the next 10 years, including roofs, HVAC systems, plumbing, electrical and security systems. This priority includes the replacement of aging infrastructure to ensure operational efficiency and energy. Other key improvements include work to address major systems such as roofing, HVAC, electrical and plumbing, to prevent failures.
The third priority includes safety and security enhancements. Key improvements under this priority include relocating main offices to the front entrances for controlled visitor access, expanding health offices to meet the growing medical needs of students, installing technology upgrades for security and communication across sites and providing private conference rooms for confidential parent meetings and student support services.
The last priority focuses on activities, athletics and community access. Currently, the plan calls for a fourstation fieldhouse to be built featuring locker rooms, a weight room/fitness center and an elevated walking track. Athletic facilities such as tennis courts and pool areas would be renovated and expanded. Parking circulation would be enhanced to help manage traffic
effectively during events, with dedicated entrances for buses and vehicles. Multipurpose spaces would also be built to be used by school programs and local organizations.
What’s next
“We are going to start refining and narrowing down the higher-priority items into one plan,” Holmberg said. “The Morris Leatherman survey, demographic study, community input session, bringing that all in to help us figure out how does all this data help us prioritize and tie into the proposal we’re bringing forward.”
Holmberg said the School Board has a work session on Monday, March 2, and a regular school board meeting on Monday, March 16. District staff’s intent is to have the plan completed to be able to present to the board for feedback.
The district will also accept another round of community input on the plan. Holmberg said Peter Leatherman, CEO of Morris Leatherman Company, also offered to help the district conduct a specific, smaller survey on a particular project to receive more specific and tailored input from the community.
A final proposal is expected to be presented to the school board in April or May.
For more information about Centennial Forward, visit www.isd12.org/discover/school-board/centennialforward.
Editor Madeline Dolby can be reached at 651-407-1226 or quadnews@presspubs.com.
