Blue Heron receives ‘best elementary school’ title
BY MADELINE DOLBY EDITOR
LINO LAKES — Each year, Press Publications hosts the Reader’s Choice Best of the Press Contest, asking locals to vote for their favorites, ranging from the best cup of coffee to the best florist and everything in between.
Rising to the top of the “Best Elementary School” category in the Quad area is Blue Heron Elementary
School, located in Lino Lakes. The school opened in the fall of 2002 and is one of eight elementary schools within the Centennial School District. The name Blue Heron was chosen to reflect the history of blue herons within the Lino Lakes community.
Jason Hartmann has been Blue Heron’s principal for the past 13 years. Before coming to Blue Heron, he was principal at a school in North Branch.
SEE BEST OF, PAGE 5
Circle Pines budget, levy expected to increase
BY MADELINE DOLBY EDITOR
CIRCLE PINES — Residents can expect to see an increase in the city’s budget, tax levy and city taxes for 2026.
The city’s 2026 budget is expected to be set at $3,723,197, a 1.7% increase from 2025.
Finance Director Kate Manson said the driving factors creating the increase in the budget can be attributed to increases in the police department’s budget as well as costs associated with an additional election cycle, building inspections and a wage and compensation study.
According to Manson, the Centennial Lakes Police Department is expected to pass along a 6.3% increase, or $219,636, in expenses. The increase can be attributed to salaries and benefits, vehicle replacement and an increase in Metro-INET users. It is important to note that the $219,636 increase is divided between Circle Pines and Centerville, since both cities utilize services provided by the Centennial Lakes Police Department. According to Manson, Circle Pines’ share is expected to increase by $72,929, or 5.7%, from 2025.
“Our share is going up only 5.7%. That is because Centerville is picking up a little bit more than what they did in the past,” she explained.
SEE CITY BUDGET, PAGE 8
Blue Turtles Arts and Wellness fosters growth and healing
BY MADELINE DOLBY EDITOR
LINO LAKES — Blue Turtles Art and Wellness offers a variety of art classes ranging from art journaling to a mosaic workshop. Blue Turtles also provides counseling services to those in need.
Before the space became a combined art studio and therapy center, Blue Turtles just offered counseling services. The space, owned by Lexington resident Rachel Resler, opened in September 2024.
Beginning at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, Blue Turtles Art and Wellness will host its first-ever Artoberfest at Lino Lakes Commons Park. The event will feature 40 vendors ranging from digital media to jewelry, tours of the art studio, make-and-take art activities and live music.
“We wanted to do something for the community that would be fun. That would show people that there is art and creativity up here in the north metro,” Resler said. Resler, a licensed marriage and family therapist and former teacher, opened Blue
Turtles Art and Wellness because she found doing art, movement and body modalities helpful. She also wanted to create a sense of community, as well as have a space for art and people to be well.
“In my own personal work, doing art and movement and body modalities has been super helpful. So even though I already had the therapy office open, I wanted space where people could come do that stuff,” she said.
SEE BLUE TURTLES, PAGE 2
Blue Turtles Art and Wellness offers a beginning wheel throwing course, a clay hand-building workshop and a six-week course on the wheel throwing process.
Blue Heron Elementary has received the title of “Best Elementary School” as part of the Quad Community Press Reader’s Choice Best of the Press Contest.
BLUE TURTLES: Offers therapy, coaching, pottery and
Artoberfest
When: 11 a.m.- 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4
Where: Lino Lakes Commons Park/Shawn Silvera Memorial Park, 7525 Village Drive
Details: Celebrate art, wellness, autumn and more. Find unique art for your space, enjoy creative activities, food trucks and live entertainment. Learn more about the event on the Blue Turtles Art and Wellness Facebook page.
“It (Blue Turtles) was created through my own experience and my family’s experience of being both in the space where we were doing inner work as well as finding creativity to be really life changing.”
She added that she wanted the practice available in Lino Lakes because a lot of these types of spaces can be found in the city or the southwest suburbs.
“I really wanted it up here, because I was going south of town to get some of these modalities for myself. I wanted them to be available more for the community up here,” Resler explained.
Before becoming a wellness space, Resler was looking for a way to expand her therapy office but couldn’t find anything. When the businesses on either side of her moved, she reached out to the building’s landlord about renting the unoccupied space.
Blue Turtles offers therapy, coaching, somatic experiencing and modalities like EDMR and brain spotting. Enneagram personality tests and breath work classes are also offered. Resler added that one of the clinicians is getting trained in psychedelic therapy. The therapists who work at Blue Turtles are independent business owners and rent office space from Resler. She explained that they aren’t her employees, but they do collaborate.
Along with therapy services, Blue Turtles offers pottery, art journaling and mosaic workshops and classes. Recently, the studio started a writer’s group. In the future, Resler said she would like to start a book club.
“It’s helpful that members of my family are creative, because my middle kid, Aspen, is a therapist and potter. So, they are kind of in charge of the pottery space,” Resler said. “I do a lot of artsy stuff, so I run some of the classes.” The somatic experiencing clinician on site, Kim Lovejoy, runs breath work classes. In the future, Resler added, they hope to start an art therapy group for adolescents in the area.
Even though Resler isn’t an art therapist, she still finds a way to bring art into her sessions.
“Sometimes it might be doing a dot painting and just talking about what’s happening in life … We might sit together and make a mosaic of an
ampersand because a lot of the concepts we talk about in therapy are ‘and.’ We might do it silently for a while and then talk about ‘OK, what draws you to these colors and how do you find the concept of ‘and’ working in some of the things you’re facing now?’” she said.
Resler also uses enneagram testing in her sessions and brings in whatever modality works best for her clients. She said art can be really good for some of her clients because it helps them focus and provides bilateral stimulation to the brain.
“That flow state that you get whether you’re writing or potting or creating something, it is a really great way to do mindfulness. Especially for people whose minds are spinning,” Resler said.
The studio is open to the public from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Members have access to the art studio daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Blue Turtles Art and Wellness is located at 7525 Village Drive, Suite 170, Lino Lakes. To sign up for a class, visit www.blueturtlesartandwellness.com.
Editor Madeline Dolby can be reached at 651-4311226 or quadnews@presspubs.com.
MADELINE DOLBY | PRESS PUBLICATIONS
A space to create mosaic artwork is located toward the back of the studio.
CONTRIBUTED
Aspen Resler teaches pottery classes at Blue Turtles Art and Wellness. They are an art therapist and a potter.
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. Every player will receive a raffle ticket for a drawing to win a free drink. The top three teams will earn a gift card, and the last place team wins a “mini trophy.”
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, Oct. 2; 1st, 3rd and 5th Thursday of every month.
Where: Rice Lake Center, 6900 137th St. N, Hugo
Details: Hugo Seniors meet to play “500.” Games begin promptly at 12:45 p.m. Refreshment and coffee will be served. All senior citizens from the area are invited. Join us and bring a friend. Contact: Barb @ 651-592-0369 or barbconnolly1958@ yahoo.com
CRIBBAGE
When: 12:45, Monday, Oct. 6; 1st & 4th Monday of every month
Where: Rice Lake Center, 6900 137th St. N, Hugo Details: All senior citizens from Hugo and surrounding areas are invited to join us for a afternoon of Cribbage. Coffee and refreshments will be served.
Contact: Alice @ 651-429-4413
CURRENT EVENTS
KARAOKE AND DJ WITH REINA STARR
When: 7:30-11:50 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3
Where: Lino Lakes American Legion Post 566, 7731 Lake Drive
Details: Kick off your weekend with karaoke. Contact: (651) 783-0055
OPIOIDS AND OVERDOSE EVENT
When: 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4
Where: Spring Lake Park High School, 1100 81st Ave. NE, Spring Lake Park.
Details: Hosted by the Anoka County Opioid Solutions Initiative. The event will feature presentations by expert on opioids and fentanyl. A
Naloxone Education Station will offer free Naloxone and training will be available throughout the day. A panel of people with opioid related experiences will share their stories. Over 40 community health care, treatment, and recovery related resource tables will also be present.
Contact: www.anokacountymn.gov/4417/OpioidResponse
FALL CRAFT FAIR
When: Noon- 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4
Where: Blaine City Hall, 10801 Town Square Drive NE, Blaine
Details: Part of the city’s Oktoberfest celebration. Shop from various local vendors.
Contact: blainemn.gov/4034/Oktoberfest
RIVERTOWN ART FESTIVAL
When: Saturday, Oct. 4 and Sunday, Oct. 5
Where: Lowell Park, Stillwater
Details: More than 210 artist booths, live music, food, beer & wine tent and interactive activities. Contact: greaterstillwaterchamber.com
UCARE FLUE CLINIC
When: 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. Monday, Oct. 6
Where: YMCA, 3760 Lexington Ave. N., Shoreview
Details: Flu vaccines available for ages 6 months and older. Cub mobile pharmacy will administer the vaccines. Please bring your insurance ID card. Walk ins welcome, no registration required. Contact: Elen Bahr at elen.bahr@ymca.org.
ONCE UPON A STORYTIME: NIGHT ANIMALS
When: 9 a.m.- 10 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 7
Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino
Lakes
Details: Step into a world where imagination knows no bounds as a Wargo storyteller takes you on nature adventures through stories, songs and crafts.
Contact: anokacountyparks.com
MADE IN THE NORTH METRO CAREER FAIR
When: 9 a.m. -1 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 8
Where: National Sports Center, 1750 105th Ave. NE, Blaine
Details: An interactive career fair that includes live equipment demos, on-the-spot interviews, games and prize wheels, educational career resources and more.
Contact: www.metronorthchamber.org
OKTOBERFEST
When: 10:30 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 5
Where: St. Mark Lutheran Church, 1 North Road, Circle Pines
Details: Event features German style food, games and more.
Contact: stmarkcp.org
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
Blaine Oktoberfest
When: Noon-8:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4
Where: Tom Ryan Park, 10801 Town Square Drive NE, Blaine
Details: Enjoy a petting zoo, craft fair, food trucks and beer garden.
Contact: blainemn.gov/4034/Oktoberfest
CHURCH BRIEF
Chorus, orchestra raises funds for Centennial food shelf
The Woodbury Chorus and Orchestra, under the direction of Cindy Martinson, will perform at St. Joseph Catholic Church at 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 12. The performance, titled “Rhythms of Life,” will include familiar choral and orchestral music, including “Festival Gloria,” “Seven Bridges Road,” “Hosanna”, “Glow” and more. Proceeds raised at the concert will be donated to the Powerpack program under the Centennial Community Food Shelf. St. Joseph Catholic Church is located at 171 Elm St., Lino Lakes.
The Woodbury Chorus and Orchestra will perform at St. Joseph Catholic Church on Sunday, Oct. 12.
OPINION
Memory triggers
Music and photos can evoke memories and reminiscing but, in my opinion, it is the sense of smell that most strongly evokes vivid memories and emotions. “A sensory experience that triggers a rush of memories often long past, or even seemingly forgotten,” is described in a Harvard Gazette article as a Proustian moment, named for the French author Marcel Proust. According to neuroscience studies, smell and memory seem to be so closely linked because of the brain’s anatomy, which allows scents to take a direct route to regions of the brain related to emotion and memory.
Angle of View
I didn’t know what it was called at the time, but one of the first times I recall experiencing the phenomenon of a Proustian moment was during a bike ride through St. Paul on my way to Grand Old Days to listen to some friends playing in a band. I decided to ride through the neighborhood on Summit Avenue where I spent my grade school years. One of the defining features of the avenue were “islands” dividing the roadway, filled with lilac bushes and featuring an unpaved walking path. I reveled in the warmth, sounds and scents of a promising early summer day as I pedaled my bike down the sun dappled path in between the bushes when I suddenly and unexpectedly felt transported back in time to June 1968. Triggered by the powerful aroma of blooming lilac flowers, the memory and also the extreme emotions that accompanied the shooting and death of presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy came back in a rush. I hadn’t thought too much about the events of 1968 in the intervening years and decades between grade school and adulthood, but now I was recalling the details of a walk down the same path to an end of the school year picnic. Not really understanding grief at that age, I just remember feeling sad and queasy. I was warmly welcomed by teachers and fellow students when I arrived at the picnic but was distracted and just couldn’t seem to find the joy in the event. I quietly withdrew and walked back home as soon as I had the opportunity. I was an avid reader at an early age and looked forward to the delivery of the newspaper and weekly news magazine. Around this time the news magazines suddenly disappeared from our home. Because one of my household chores was taking out the trash, I discovered that — in an effort to shield her children from the chaos and violence occurring at the time — my mother had thrown them away. I secretly fished them out of the trash and looked at them anyway. As a child, I apparently connected with RFK’s boyish charm and thoughtful manner and couldn’t understand why anyone would want to shoot him. Speaking publicly for the first time about the assassination of his brother John, the impromptu, emotional speech Kennedy gave in Indianapolis two months earlier, following the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr., stressed the need for love, wisdom and compassion, not hatred, violence and lawlessness. It is considered to be one of the great public addresses in American history and is credited with sparing Indianapolis from the violent riots that erupted in cities across the country that night.
Following the recent political assassinations and shootings that have occurred in Minnesota and around the country I came to the sobering realization that a seemingly endless list of senseless acts of violence has been a constant throughout my lifetime. I do not have any answers, but from a weary perspective, I’m still clinging to the hope that there is a chance for dialog and incremental action that can at least pull us back from the brink and move things in a positive direction.
Paul Dols is photojournalist/website editor for Press Publications. He can be reached at 651-407-1238
Join me in recommitting to end violence
On June 9, the Minnesota Legislature came together in bipartisan fashion to pass the state’s budget. Democrats and Republicans put aside divisions and got our work done. The plan we passed made investments in the state while balancing the current budget and planning for a sustainable budget in the future.
when we talk politics on the news, on social media and even within our families. Even worse, in our attempts to score political points, we dehumanize those on the other side.
Legislator Lingo
That day should have propelled Minnesota into a summer of good feelings. Even with the most closely divided Legislature in state history, we showed we could work together for the common good.
However, those good vibes came to a screeching halt just five days later. Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark were assassinated, and Sen. John Hoffman and his wife Yvette were shot multiple times. These crimes took place in their homes in the middle of the night. While the exact motives of the shooter are still unknown, it’s clear this violence was politically motivated.
The violence comes at a time when the temperature of our politics in this nation seems to have reached a boiling point. Too often, rage is the common denominator
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The political violence that occurred on June 14, and the recent deadly shooting of Charlie Kirk, should be a wake-up call for our state, elected officials and citizens alike. In our democracy, there is always room for strong debate on political issues. But we cannot abandon the notion that someone can be wrong on the issues and still be a good person.
That approach has always been my goal as an elected official. It’s why I recently doubled down on that effort by signing the “Civic Pledge for a Stronger Minnesota” sponsored by the nonpartisan group Majority in the Middle. As part of the pledge, I committed to engaging peacefully, working in good faith to resolve disputes, standing firmly against language that incites violence and striving to find common ground. And in a show of bipartisanship, our local state senator, Michael Kreun, joined me in signing the pledge too.
While elected officials like me have a responsibility to model this behavior, we as citizens all have a role to play. When we talk politics, we should all aim to make our points as strongly as possible without demonizing any particular person or political group. If we do that, we’ll have many more days like
June 9 in our state and, hopefully, never another one like June 14.
Tragically, the summer was bookended by the shooting during a school mass at Annunciation Catholic School. Nobody should have to face this fear in their dayto-day lives, whether at school, a place of worship or in our neighborhoods.
While we’ve made progress in recent years to make our communities safer through criminal background checks, red flag laws, and other actions, there is clearly more to do. As an elected official, I am talking with my colleagues and constituents about data-driven steps we can take to prevent more mass shootings like this one. But, the public also has a role to play. Most mass shooters share their plans in advance, especially young people and those planning shootings in schools. We must all be more vigilant about getting troubled people the help they need. The Bureau of Criminal Apprehension has a app available to report tips anonymously. You can also call the BCA’s tipline at 1-877-996-6222 or email bca.tips@state.mn.us. Keeping our communities safe and setting a tone that doesn’t drive people to violence is a shared responsibility. As we turn the page on a violent summer, I hope you’ll join me in recommitting to these efforts.
State Rep. Matt Norris represents District 32B.
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Paul Dols
FROM PAGE 1
Hartmann said the most rewarding part of his job is the relationships with the kids, staff and families.
“You end up having multiple siblings from a family, and you really get to know them. The staff don’t leave. Once they’re here, they’re here,” Hartmann said. “They feel connected, and experiencing that over the years has been really rewarding to see the mutual benefit there. The community to the school, and the school to the community.”
According to Hartmann, having the students feel safe, comfortable and connected is a big part of the school’s culture. He said once the students feel connected, they are comfortable in taking risks and staff can meet them where they are at academically.
“We take great pride in our academics and, I think, over time the needs of students have changed. The one thing that hasn’t changed is the students desire to feel connected. And I think that part is always going to be there,” Hartmann added.
The school is structured into pods based on grade level. Each pod includes a common space that students can work in. Hartmann said the common area allows students a chance to build connections. Older students also meet the kindergarteners and first graders to be buddies.
“I think that is something that the kids look forward to as they work through
different grades. When they get to fourth and fifth grade, they are able to be that mentor, be that buddy,” he said.
Hartmann said that it’s an honor for Blue Heron to be named the best elementary school in the Quad area, and being nominated meant a lot.
“It really showed us how much our community values and supports Blue Heron, and also Centennial School District as a whole,” he said. “I think it’s a testament of our (Blue Heron’s) commitment to relationships.”
Kary Burgraff has been teaching second grade at Blue Heron since the school first opened in 2002. She has been with the Centennial School District for 25 years. Before teaching at Blue Heron, Burgraff taught first grade at Rice Lake Elementary.
“I love the amazing support staff that we have here at Blue Heron; we have cooks and office staff and paraprofessionals ... All those people, we could collapse without them,” Burgraff said.
She added that the teachers are very supportive of one another and hardworking. She said teachers step up to address student needs, and that makes her proud to work at Blue Heron.
“We step up no matter the need. It doesn’t matter if it’s our kid in our classroom, it’s a Blue Heron kid and whatever they need, if we can provide, we will,” Burgraff explained.
Burgraff said she also feels honored to receive the “best of” title.
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Josh O’Shea Centennial Football September 30, 2025
POLICE REPORTS
Josh O’Shea, two-way starter at tackle for the Cougar football team that’s 4-1 and ranked No. 9 in the state, is a key figure every game, duking it out in the trenches. “Not many guys have been able to block Josh,” said Coach Mike Diggins. “He is a really tough kid, he works hard and he’s got a motor that never stops. He will play college football somewhere.” O’Shea, listed at 6-feet and 230 pounds, is a veteran three-way starter and contributed to their state championship his sophomore season. “Every team we play game-plans for him,” said Diggins.
“We always want to do our best. Getting the recognition is nice, knowing that others see the hard work and want us to get that praise,” she said.
Theresa Jackson has two children who attend Blue Heron. Her youngest, Remi, is currently in kindergarten. Her oldest daughter, Tessa, is in the third grade. Since starting school at Blue Heron, Jackson said Tessa has taken on some of the school’s incentives, such as being a good line leader or being quiet in the hallway. The incentives are something that Blue Heron implements through its Soar Program.
“She’s really adopted those rules and uses those as normal, life lesson tools,” Jackson explained. She added that Remi, who attended preschool at Blue Heron as well, has received good remarks from her teachers too regarding her leadership skills.
a welcoming atmosphere.
“Every teacher that we’ve had has made an impact on our daughters,” Jackson said.
Superintendent Jeff Holmberg thanked the community for its nomination and votes for Blue Heron Elementary, and the support of the district’s schools and teachers.
“The Centennial School District thrives because of strong community engagement,” said Dr. Jeff Holmberg, superintendent of Centennial Schools. “Thank you to the readers of The Quad Press for your nominations and votes for Blue Heron Elementary and for your support of our schools and teachers. Together, we can do great things for our youth!”
Blue Heron Elementary School is located at 405 Elm St.
COPS&COURTS
Jackson, who helps with parent dropoff in the morning, says the school staff are always smiling, happy and greeting everyone. She added that the school has
Editor Madeline Dolby can be reached at 651-431-1226 or quadnews@ presspubs.com.
The Centennial Lakes Police Department reported the following selected incidents:
• Officers took a walk-in report Sept. 10 regarding property found near the intersection of Lake Drive and Firebarn Road in Circle Pines.
• Officers were dispatched Sept. 11 to a property damage accident that occurred in the 7000 block of 20th Avenue in Centerville. Officers arrived, took information and facilitated the exchange of information between drivers. There were no injuries reported and damage to both vehicles was minor.
• Officers received a report of school bus stop arm violation Sept. 12 in the 0 block of Village Parkway in Circle Pines. Officers investigated and determined there was no evidence of a violation.
• Officers responded Sept. 12 to the 0 block of West Golden Lake Road in Circle Pines for a noise complaint.
• Police were dispatched Sept. 13 to a property damage accident that occurred in the 9000 block of Griggs Avenue in Lexington. Police spoke with a female and gathered her information for a report.
• A Community Service Officer was dispatched Sept. 15 to a walking path in the 0 block of West Golden Lake Road in Circle Pines on a report of an abandoned blue bike near the path exit.
The Lino Lakes Police Department reported the following selected incidents:
• Serving Families for more than 115 years
• Fourth generation, Family owned provider
• An officer responded Sept. 8 to a report of illegal dumping in the 700 block of Town Center Parkway. The owner of the trash was contacted and advised to remove the items.
• We provide a personal, thorough service
• We offer free, no-obligation pre-planning consultations
• While on patrol Sept. 8, officer responded to a residence of a male in the 800 block of Orange Street who had a felony warrant. The suspect was arrested and booked at jail.
• An officer responded Sept. 8 to a report of two dogs left inside a hot vehicle in the 2300 block of Rosemary Way. The officer arrived and checked
N. Dale St. 651-487-2550
the dogs, who did not appear to be in distress. The owner was informed of the complaint.
• An officer took a report of theft from motor vehicle Sept. 8 that occurred in the 7500 block of Norway Lane. The officer investigated and found there was no suspect information available.
• An officer responded Sept. 8 to a phone call fraud report in the 1500 block of Holly Drive. The officer investigated and determined the reporting party was not out any money. No suspects were identified.
• Officers responded Sept. 8 to a delayed report of theft in the 700 block of Apollo Drive from a local business. After investigating, the suspect was mailed a citation for theft.
• Officers responded Sept. 8 to a report of a disorderly male in a parking lot in the 700 block of Apollo Drive. Officers made contact with the male and issued him a citation for disorderly conduct.
• While on patrol Sept. 9, an officer conducted a traffic stop in the 7100 block of Otter Lake Road and cited the driver for littering.
• While on patrol Sept. 9, an officer conducted a traffic stop in the 7400 block of 20th Avenue. The male driver was arrested on an outstanding warrant from another agency. The male was transported and booked at jail.
• An officer responded Sept. 9 to a traffic complaint involving a school bus in the 7700 block of Lake Drive. The bus company was contacted and notified of the complaint.
• Officers responded Sept. 11 to a report of a suspi cious vehicle parked on a residential street in the 6500 block of Lacasse Drive. Officers made contact with the owners of the vehicle and determined there was no crime.
under investigation.
• Officers responded female juvenile The juvenile was and provided
• Officers responded involving a business near the intersection Lane. Officers advised them
• An officer was in the 7500 block who was acting prior to the officer’s gated and determined committed.
• An officer are Sept. 12 in the
• Officers responded cious group of 7700 block of Meadow not identified, with a case number.
• Officers and the 13 to a report in the 6500 block checked, and no
• Officers were advised Sept. 11 by another law enforcement agency that a Lino Lakes resident made a threat of violence toward a school. The incident was investigated, and a juvenile was arrested in the 400 block of Andall Street.
• An officer responded Sept. 11 to a report of harassment in the 7900 block of Henry Lane. The case is
• Officers responded dispute in the spoke with parties male for DWI. ond-degree DWI within two hours.
• An officer responded by an animal The victim did owner of the animal
• An officer responded gle-vehicle motor intersection of injuries were
Or use our selection
Sundays YOGA in the VINES 10a-11A Saint Croix Vineyards
Tuesdays Yoga Class 6p-7p Rustic Roots Winery
Tuesdays Rotating Trivia & Bingo 6:30 Rustic Roots Winery
Wednesdays Keychain Kash All Day Big Wood Brewery
Oct 2 Soccer Shots 5p-7p Belle Ame Vineyard
Oct 2 Trivia Night 6:30-8p Dragonfly Winery
Oct 4 Beauty & Brews Mobile Medspa 2p – 5p Big Wood Brewery
Oct 4 Renfaire Day White Bear Meadery
Oct 5 Music: Michael August 2p-5p
Oct 6 Fall Styled Shoot 9a -5p
Oct 7 Music: Jennifer Grimm & Joe Cruz 4:30-7p
Oct 9 Soccer Shots 5p-7p
7 Vines Vineyard
Belle Ame Vineyard
7 Vines Vineyard
Belle Ame Vineyard
Oct 9 Keys and Corks – Dueling Pianos 5:30-9p Rustic Roots Winery
Oct 9 Music: Maddie Forsythe 6p-8p
Oct 10 Soccer Shots 5p-7p
Oct 11 Riverdale’s Travel Wedding Even 10:30a-4p
Belle Ame Vineyard
Belle Ame Vineyard
Belle Ame Vineyard
Oct 11 Morbid Makers market 12-5p White Bear Meadery
Oct 12 Paint and Sip Wine Glass 11a-1p Saint Croix Vineyards
Oct 12 MN Bride Open House 12p-4p
Oct 12 Music: PK Mayo & Band 2p-5p
Oct 15 Music: Josh Quinn & Rose Duffey 5p-8p
Oct 16
Oct 16
Belle Ame Vineyard
7 Vines Vineyard
7 Vines Vineyard
Monthly Farmers Market 4-7p Rustic Roots Winery
Hat Lady Event-Stephanie Murphy 5:30-7:30
Oct 16 Trivia Nigh 6:30-8p
Oct 16 Soccer Shots 5p-7p
Oct 17 Soccer Shots 5p-7p
Oct 17
Halloween Movie Marathon 5p-9p
Belle Ame Vineyard
Dancing Dragonfly Winery
Belle Ame Vineyard
Belle Ame Vineyard
Belle Ame Vineyard
Oct 17 Plant & Sip 6-8:30p
Oct 19 Fall Market 11a-3p
Oct 19
Music: Steve Poynter 2p-5p
Oct 22 Music: Tim Cheesebrow 5p-8p
Dancing Dragonfly Winery
Belle Ame Vineyard
7 Vines Vineyard
7 Vines Vineyard
Oct 23 Soccer Shots 5p-7p Belle Ame Vineyard
Oct 23 Music: Ryan Sullivan 5p-8p Belle Ame Vineyard
Oct 24 Puzzle Night 6p-8p Belle Ame Vineyard
Oct 24 Music: Cole Thomas 5p-8p
7 Vines Vineyard
Oct 25 Wine-O-Ween 12p Saint Croix Vineyards
Oct 26 Music: Gary LaRue 2p-5p
7 Vines Vineyard
Oct 26 Wine and Canvas Painting 11a Saint Croix Vineyards
Oct 26 Fall Market 11a-3p Belle Ame Vineyard
Oct 28 Music: Billy McLaughlin 5p-8p
Oct 29 Music: Becky Rae 5p-8p
7 Vines Vineyard
7 Vines Vineyard
Oct 29 Monthly Book Club Meeting 5:30-6:30p Rustic Roots Winery
Oct 30 Music: Mark Stary 5p-8p
7 Vines Vineyard
Oct 30 Murder at the Vineyard-Show 6p-9p Belle Ame Vineyard
Oct 31 Halloween Contest 4p-8p Belle Ame Vineyard
Nov 11 Holiday Market 2p- 6p
Big Wood Brewery
The Centennial Lakes Police Department reported the following selected incidents:
• Police responded Sept. 17 to a motor vehicle crash that occurred near the intersection of Lovell Road and Dunlap Avenue in Lexington. A citation was issued to one of the drivers for a license violation.
• Officers responded Sept. 17 to a phone call request for a fraud report in the 8700 block of Dunlap Avenue in Lexington.
• Officers were dispatched Sept. 17 to a report of suspicious activity in the 0 block of Central Street in Circle Pines. One male was arrested.
• Officers responded Sept. 17 to a warrant arrest in the 9100 block of Lexington Avenue in Lexington.
• Officers received a phone call Sept. 17 regarding a bike theft in the 9000 block of Griggs Avenue in Lexington.
• Police responded Sept. 18 to a two-vehicle property damage accident in the 0 block of Pine Drive S. in Circle Pines. No injuries were reported.
• Police fielded a walk-in Sept. 19 regarding criminal sexual conduct. After further investigation, it was concluded no crime had occurred.
• Officers responded Sept. 20 to a fight that broke out near the intersection of Liberty Lane and Hamline Avenue in Lexington.
• Police responded Sept. 20 to a report of a disorderly male in the 9000 block of Jackson Avenue in Lexington.
• Police conducted a traffic stop Sept. 21 regarding a speed violation in the 9400 block of Lexington Avenue in Lexington.
• Connexus Energy will be able to rebuild its public utility substation site located at 16 East Road following council approval. The council also approved a conditional use permit submitted by Connexus, which would allow it to adjust existing lot boundaries to provide additional land for future use at the site. Construction is scheduled to begin in October. The project will take approximately two months to complete.
• The council approved the preliminary 2026 budget and tax levy. The council will hold its truthin-taxation hearing at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9, at City Hall before the final tax levy and budget are adopted. (See full story in this week’s issue.)
• The city has authorized the issuance of general obligation bonds series 2025a and awarded their sale to Baird in the
• An officer stopped a vehicle Sept. 23 for an equipment violation near the intersection of Lake Drive and Pine Drive in Circle Pines.
The Lino Lakes Police Department reported the following selected incidents:
• While on patrol Sept. 15, an officer stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation at the intersection of Main Street and Otter Lake Road. After an investigation, an adult female was arrested for driving while impaired and booked at Anoka County Jail.
• An officer attempted to stop a vehicle Sept. 15 for multiple violations at the intersection of Main Street and 20th Avenue. The vehicle fled from the officer and the officer did not pursue. The identity of the driver is unknown.
• An officer responded Sept. 15 to a report of a financial transaction credit card fraud in the 700 block of Town Center Parkway. The investigation is ongoing.
• An officer responded Sept. 15 to a report regarding potentially threatening text messages in the 0 block of Palomino Lane. The officer documented the information and sent it to another law enforcement agency for review.
• Officers responded Sept. 15 to a theft at a business in the 400 block of Apollo Street. Officer investigated and were unable to identify a suspect.
• An officer responded Sept. 15 to a request to assist with impounding a dog and two cats in the 200 block of Stallion Lane. The animals were subsequently brought to a local animal shelter.
amount of approximately $5.81 million following council approval.
• Pay voucher No. 5 for the 2025 street rehabilitation project has been issued and paid following council approval, totaling approximately $493,174.
• The Centennial Scouts will camp overnight at Golden Lake Park after the organization’s family expo on Saturday, Oct. 11, following council approval. Section 703 of the city code states that no one is allowed in parks after 10 p.m. and tents cannot be set up without City Council approval.
According to City Administrator Patrick Antonen, Scouts will be supervised by adult Scout leaders, and their tents
will be located near the tennis courts so they do not impact the park’s irrigation system.
• Election judges for the 2025 general election have been appointed following council approval. This year, there will be 19 election judges between precinct 1 and precinct 2.
• The council adjourned to a work session to conduct a performance review for Antonen.
• The city will recognize October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
The next City Council meeting will be at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 14.
Madeline Dolby
• While on patrol Sept. 16, an officer stopped a vehicle in the 2200 block of Main Street for a driver’s license violation. The officer arrested the driver and booked them at jail.
• Officers responded Sept. 16 to a report that several trees were cut down by an unknown person in the 800 block of Old Birch Street. The investigation is ongoing.
• An officer responded Sept. 16 to a report of debris on the roadway near the intersection of Otter Lake Road and Cedar Street E. While clearing the debris, property was found. The property was secured at the police department for safekeeping.
• While on patrol Sept. 17, an officer observed a male in the 6200 block of Otter Lake Road who had an outstanding warrant. The adult male was arrested and booked at jail.
• Officers responded Sept. 17 to a delayed report of theft from a business in the 700 block of Apollo Drive. The incident is under investigation.
• An officer responded Sept. 17 to a report of a suspicious vehicle driving past a caller several times near the intersection of Rice Lake Lane and Elm Street. An officer checked the area and was unable to locate a suspect.
• While on patrol Sept. 17 an officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for speeding at the intersection of I-35W and Main Street. The driver was arrested for DWI.
• While on patrol Sept. 18, officers conducted a traffic stop in the 7000 block of I-35E. Officers determined the driver
had a warrant and the adult male was arrested and booked at jail.
• An officer was requested Sept. 19 by school staff to speak with a student’s parents regarding written threats in the 300 block of Elm Street. The officer determined no apparent crime was committed and spoke with the parents about the incident.
• Officers responded Sept. 19 to a report of a male with a warrant in the 200 block of Baldwin Circle. Officers located the male, who was arrested, and transported him to jail.
• While on patrol Sept. 20, an officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle that was traveling over 100 mph at the intersection of I-35E and Main Street. The driver was subsequently arrested and booked at jail.
• Officers responded Sept. 20 to a singlevehicle property damage crash that occurred near the intersection of Lake Drive and Second Avenue. The driver showed signs of impairment and was ultimately arrested and booked at jail for third-degree DWI.
• Officers responded Sept. 21 to a report of suspicious juvenile activity at a park in the 6500 block of Pheasant Run S. The juveniles were gone prior to the officer’s arrival and old graffiti was found. Public Works was advised for cleanup.
• An officer was requested Sept. 21 to assist the Anoka County Sheriff’s Office near the intersection of Lake Drive NE and West Freeway Drive NE with a stolen vehicle. The officer assisted with arresting an adult male.
LEXINGTON CITY COUNCIL SNIPPETS
• An appeals hearing was held regarding a recommendation from the Centennial Lakes Police Department to designate Lexington resident Raven Severin’s dog, Ace, as a dangerous dog. According to Chief James Mork, there have been at least four instances between 2024 and 2025 where the dog has been loose. The dog has not attacked or harmed any residents or pedestrians, but it has killed a handful of domestic chickens belonging to a neighbor. Ultimately, the council ruled that Ace is a potentially dangerous dog, which stipulates that Severin is required to get the dog microchipped, build a proper enclosure to keep the dog from escaping, have the
CONSTRUCTION BRIEF
dog muzzled and leashed when off Severin’s property, and be handled by a responsible party of 16 years or older when off Severin’s property, as well as to provide any additional information required by Mork.
• The Lexington Fire Department will receive a 2017 Chevy Tahoe after council approved the vehicle’s purchase. The budget is approved for up to $35,000, with an additional $1,000 for logo and graphics.
The next City Council meeting will be at 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 2, at City Hall.
Stop sign added to intersection as part of construction project
The intersection at Birch Street and 20th Avenue in Lino Lakes is now an allway stop in response to the County Road J and I-35E interchange project. Before, there was only one stop sign at Birch Street, which made it difficult for those turning left onto northbound 20th Avenue because of increased traffic.
CIRCLE PINES CITY COUNCIL SNIPPETS
Hannah Testa
CITY BUDGET: Truth-in-taxation hearing to take place Dec. 9 at City Hall
FROM PAGE 1
Manson said there have been some decreases in expenditures as well. These are attributable to three factors: a reduction in cost of the contract with Spring Lake Park—Blaine— Mounds View (SBM) Fire Department, reduced costs for salaries and benefits, and the elimination of the one-time cost associated with the city’s 75th anniversary celebration, held earlier this year.
The city’s partnership with SBM is expected to decrease by $43,429 due to the sharing of resources. According to Manson, these resources include financial auditing, training and the cost for supplies and equipment.
The tax levy is expected to be set at $3,547,392, a 9.66% increase. The city’s tax rate is expected to increase from 2025’s rate of 46.99 to 49.35 in 2026. The levy and total tax capacity for all properties in the city are used to calculate the local tax rate, which is the local tax levy divided by the total tax capacity. Local tax rates are often used to compare cities’ property taxes. According to Anoka County, the median market-value home in Circle Pines has increased by 5.6%. A medianvalued home is the home where half of the homes in the city are valued higher than that home, and half are valued lower.
“Traditionally as market values rise, we get to take a dip with our tax rate,” Manson said. “However, with the investment that we’re making into our
parks, it’ll actually be an increase as well.”
She provided two examples of what this would look like for a homeowner in Circle Pines.
“If you’re lucky to not have your market value increase, your $300,000 home would not change in value but because of the increase to the tax rate, you’d be paying an additional $5.69 per month toward your tax bill (in city taxes),” she explained.
If a home falls more in line with the city’s median-value home of $316,000, Manson said the homeowner can expect to pay an additional $13.22 per month in city taxes.
Council Member Matt Percy shared his thoughts about the proposed budget.
“I think it’s a responsible budget and I think it’s going to deliver value for the people in our city in a way that’s not going to break the bank,” Percy said. “I think it’s really well put together.”
The city is required to certify its proposed tax levy to the county by Sept. 30.
The council ultimately set the preliminary tax levy and will hold its truth-in-taxation hearing at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9, at City Hall before adopting the final tax levy and budget. The levy may be reduced before final adoption in December, but it cannot increase.
Editor Madeline Dolby can be reached at 651-431-1226 or quadnews@presspubs. com.
BUSINESS BRIEFS
Donut shop opens second location in Blaine
UFFDA Donuts has opened its second location in Blaine. The business offers handmade donuts, a coffee bar, breakfast sandwiches and other breakfast items. It is open from 6:30 a.m.- 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday; 7 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturdays; and 7 a.m.-3 p.m. on Sundays.
UFFDA Donuts is located at 10400 Baltimore St. NE. The business also has a location in Maple Grove.
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City of Blaine welcomes The Wild Hare
The Wild Hare will open its doors to the public Thursday, Sept. 30. The Wild Hare offers classic dive bar food with organic and natural ingredients. It will be open from 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday- Thursday; 11 a.m.- 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 11 a.m.- 9 p.m. on Sundays. The Wild Hare is located at 10340 Baltimore St. NE, Blaine. For more information, visit www.wildharebar. com.
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Cougars blank Rogers 36-0, lose to Andover
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
Centennial football absorbed its first loss, against Andover 22-17, on Sept. 19, then rumbled to a 36-0 win over the Rogers Royals at Rogers last Friday evening. The Cougars are 4-1 and ranked No. 9 in the state for all classes by the StarTribune.
Andover 22, Cougars 16
The Cougars had a 10-7 halftime lead with a one-yard touchdown by Isaiah Belinske-Strauss and a 29-yard field goal by Justin Driver. They went ahead 16-14 in the fourth quarter on Calvin Coppersmith’s 46-yard run. The extra point failed.
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Andover (4-1) pushed ahead 22-16 with 4:27 left on a 13-yard touchdown pass from Joseph Mapson to Aidan Wiegert and a two-point run. The Cougars, who rushed for nearly 300 yards, drove into the red zone but suffered a turnover on a third-and-two play.
“Our QB got shaken up and had to come out. We had an exchange problem,” Coach Mike Diggins recounted. “That’s how the night went.
SPORTS BRIEFS
TENNIS
Centennial beat Park 7-0 and lost to CambridgeIsanti last week, finishing the regular season with a 10-4 overall record and 6-2 in the NWSC. The Cougars start sectionals Tuesday, Seot. 30. Winning in straight sets against Park were Lauren Klein, Radha Andiappan, Ashlin Kilmer and Hailey Zaczkowski in singles, and Sophia Wynn/ Ella Nelson, Jenna Orcutt/ Hannah Lofgren and Claire Olson/Ellen Huseth in doubles. CambridgeIsanti (13-1) swept singles against the Cougars, led by Evie Porta edging Klein (14-2) at No. 1, 5-7, 6-4,10-7 at No. 1. Orcutt/ Lofgren won 6-1, 0-6, 6-3 to stay unbeaten at 10-0 at 2-doubles. Olson/Huseth won a three-setter. The previous week, Centennial beat Anoka 7-0.
Too many mistakes to win a game. Our kids gave good effort, but our execution was not good enough to win.”
Mapson also threw a 24-yard touchdown pass to Austin Johnson and scored on a four-yard run. Belinske-Straus gained 98 yards on 18 carries and was 4-for-7 passing for 33 yards with one interception. Caleb Melser gained 73 yards in 14 carries, Coppersmith 66 in six and Edwin Ekah 50 in six.
Cougars 36, Rogers 0 Against Rogers, Melser carried the ball nine times for 104 yards with a oneyard touchdown, and scored the final touchdown from 47 yards on a pass from backup quarterback Jack Wiste. Coppersmith tallied a 14-yard touchdown while toting six times for 37 yards. Tobie Serna had a 10-yard touchdown. Belinske-Strauss scored from the one.
The Cougars posted their first shutout of the year, getting consistent pressure on the quarterback. They had one interception, by Wes Kukkonen. Rogers is 1-4.
BOYS SOCCER
Centennial thumped Elk River 10-0 and lost to Blaine 2-0 last week. The Cougars (8-2-1 overall) are 7-2-1 in the NWSC with Blaine 7-1-2 and Osseo 6-1-2. Against the Elks, Ameer Ahmed and Beckett Babiash notched three goals each, and Sebastian Hernandez with two goals and four assists. Jacob Skwlot and Logan Garcia also scored. The previous week, Centennial suffered its first loss, to Osseo 3-0, then tied Champlin Park 2-2 on goals by Garcia and Babiash.
GIRLS SOCCER
Centennial blanked Elk River 4-0 at home on Tuesday with goals by Alexis Larson, Dara Akpan, Lily Fernandez and Brianna Stuckey while allowing just two shots on goal. Centennial is 6-5 overall and 5-2 in
the NWSC. The previous week, the Cougars lost to Champlin Park 4-1 with Larson scoring.
SWIMMING
Centennial beat Park Center at home 97-72 at home Sept. 18, including 1-2 finishes in all three relays. First-places were achieved by Sophia Nguyen in the 50 and the breaststroke, Lydia Hydukovich in butterfly, Clara Zebel in backstroke and Cordelia Schultz in diving. Contributing to relay wins were were Nguyễn, Hydukovich, Zebell, Lucy Foster, Annelise Lattimore, Lelanie GandyJohnson and Madeline Uelmen. “Our times have improved dramatically over this point last season, especially in our sprint freestyle events,” noted Coach Bob McMullan.
Bruce Strand
JON NAMYST | CONTRIBUTED
Tanner Dittrich dragged down a Rogers ball carrier.
• New treadmills will be installed at The Rookery following council approval. According to Public Services Director Rick DeGardner, treadmills consistently rank as the most popular cardiovascular equipment in fitness facilities. The Rookery’s eight treadmills were originally purchased in 2017, and have a current average use of 23,250 miles total. Staff has recommended entering into a contract with Life Fitness via Sourcewell for eight Integrity Treadmills. The new treadmills will cost approximately $90,823. Funding for the new treadmills will come from the Rookery capital outlay account.
• The council has adopted the 2026 preliminary levy of $18,120,307 and scheduled the truth-in-taxation hearing
for 6:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 8, at City Hall.
(See full story in next week’s issue.)
• Alyssa Rendon will serve as the police records technician within the Lino Lakes Police Department following council appointment. The starting wage for Randon will be $29.69 per hour, which is step 2 in a seven-step wage scale for the position. Randon’s first day will be Monday, Oct. 13.
• The council approved the updated Capital City Regional Firefighters’ Association reciprocal fire service agreement. The agreement states that the Lino Lakes Fire Department will provide mutual aid to any of the departments listed as members of the Capital City Regional Firefighters’ Association and who have executed
an agreement. Members listed in the agreement within Press Publications’ coverage area include Bayport, Forest Lake, Hugo, Mahtomedi, Roseville, Scandia, Stillwater, White Bear Lake and Vadnais Heights.
• The 2026 levy for the general obligation capital note series 2016A has been cancelled following council approval. In 2016, the City Council authorized the issuance of a capital note payable to the city of Circle Pines to finance Lino Lakes’ share of the cost of capital equipment to be used by North Metro Telecommunication Commission (NMTV.) According to Thoma, at the time of the issuance an annual tax levy was included in the bond documents for the payment of future debt service. The
annual debt service would be covered by the collection of fee revenues from NMTV, and the tax levy would be evaluated and canceled on an annual basis. While the required tax levy extends into taxes payable 2026, the final debt service payment on the general obligation capital note, series 2016A, was made to the city of Circle Pines in 2024 with the use of fee revenues from NMTV.
The next City Council work session will be at 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 6. The next regular meeting will be at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 13, at City Hall.
PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES
CENTENNIAL
INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 12 SCHOOL
BOARD MEETING SUMMARY
AUGUST 18, 2025
(Abbreviated—full minutes available at www.isd12.org or call 763-792-6010 to request a hard copy) LEGAL NOTICE: School Board, Independent School District 12; 4707 North Road, Circle Pines, Minnesota; August 18, 2025. 1. Call to Order Chair Knisely called the Regular Meeting of the School Board to order at 6:30 p.m. in the District Office Board Room. 2. Pledge of Allegiance 3. Roll Call The following members were present: Knisely, exofficio Holmberg, Linser, Schwinn, Murphy, Hansen, Johnson. The following members were absent: None. 4. Approval of the Agenda Motion to approve the agenda by Murphy, seconded by Schwinn. Vote: 6-0-0. Motion carried unanimously. 5. Consent Items 6.1. Approval of Minutes. 6.2. Approval of Monthly Disbursements. 6.3. Approval of Personnel Items. 6.4. Approval of Amendments to SRO Contracts. Motion to approve the Consent Agenda Items as detailed in the enclosures by Johnson, seconded by Hansen. Vote: 6-0-0. Motion carried unanimously. 7. Supplemental Items 7.1. Approval of Revised 2025 School Board Handbook Updates - Motion to approve the revised 2025 School Board Handbook by Schwinn, seconded by Linser. Vote: 6-0-0. Motion carried unanimously. 7.2. School Board Governance Plan Updates – The updated Governance Plan is included in board packets. The plan will be on the agenda for discussion at the September work session and approval at the September board meeting. 7.3. Summer Projects Update –Executive Director Chaffey and Director Spitzer gave an update on summer projects. The presentation is included in board packets. 8. Communication 8.1. AMSD. 8.2. CAEF. 8.3. NE Metro 916. 8.4. SAFF. 8.5. District Committee Reports. 9. Superintendent Report 10. Informational Items 10.1. Dates to Note. 11. Adjourn Motion to adjourn by Schwinn, seconded by Murphy. Vote: 6-0-0. Motion carried unanimously. Adjourn at 7:14 p.m.
Craig Johnson, School Board Clerk.
Minutes prepared by Jody Josephson
Published one time in the Quad Community Press on September 30, 2025. CITY OF CIRCLE PINES, MINNESOTA
NOTICE OF HEARING ON PROPOSED ASSESSMENT 2025 STREET REHABILITATION PROJECT
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN:
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Council will meet at 7:00 p.m. on October 14, 2025, at City Hall, 200 Civic Heights Circle, Circle Pines, Minnesota, to consider and possibly adopt the proposed assessment for the cost of improving Golden Lake Road, West Golden Lake Road, Village Parkway, Central Street, Cameo Lane, Golden Oak Drive, Oak Leaf Lane from Oak Ridge Trail to Woodcrest Drive, Oak Road, South Pine Drive from South Drive to Oak Leaf Lane, and South Drive from South Pine Drive to South Road. This project also includes pavement improvements at the public works facility, fire station, and Golden Lake Park parking lots. This project will include the partial reconstruction, mill and overlay, and assess the benefited property for all or a portion of the cost of the improvement.
The proposed assessment roll is on file for public inspection at the City Clerk’s office. The total amount of the proposed assessment is $3,038,832 Written or oral objections will be considered at the meeting. No appeal may be taken as to the amount of an assessment unless a signed, written objection is filed with the Clerk prior to the hearing or presented to the presiding officer at the hearing. The Council may, upon such notice, consider any objection to the amount of proposed individual assessment at any adjourned meeting upon such further notice to the affected property owners, as it deems advisable.
Under Minn. Stat. §§435.193 to 435.195 and City Ordinance No. 109, the council may, in its discretion, defer the payment of this special assessment for any homestead property owned by a person 65 years of age or older or retired by virtue of a permanent and total disability or is a member of the Minnesota National Guard on active duty for whom it would be a hardship to make the payments. When deferment of the special assessment has been granted and is terminated for any reason provided in that law and Ordinance, all amounts accumulated plus applicable interest become due. Any assessed property owner meeting the requirements of this law and Ordinance No. 109 may, within 30 days of the confirmation of the assessment, apply to the city clerk for the prescribed form for such deferral of payment of this special assessment on his/her property.
If an assessment is contested or there is an adjourned hearing, the following procedure will be followed:
1. The City will present its case first by calling witnesses who may testify by narrative or by examination, and by the introduction of exhibits. After each witness has testified, the contesting party will be allowed to ask questions. This procedure will be repeated with each witness until neither side has further questions.
2. After the City has presented all its evidence, the objector may call witnesses or present such testimony as the objector desires. The same procedure for questioning the City’s witnesses will be followed with the objector’s witnesses.
3. Counsel may represent the objector.
4. Minnesota rules of evidence will not be strictly applied; however, they may be considered and argued with the Council as to the weight of items of evidence or testimony presented to the Council.
5. The entire proceedings will be digitally recorded.
6. At the close of the presentation of evidence, the objector may make a final presentation to the Council based on the evidence and the law. No new evidence may be presented at this point.
7. The Council may adopt the proposed assessment at the hearing. An owner may appeal an assessment to the district court pursuant to Minnesota Statutes Section 429.081 by serving notice of the appeal upon the Mayor or Clerk of the City within 30 days after the adoption of the assessment and filing such notice with the district court within ten days after service upon the Mayor or Clerk. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, a disabled individual may, one week in advance, contact City Hall by phone at (763) 784-5898, or TDD (763) 231-2617; or in writing to request reasonable assistance to be able to participate in these proceedings.
Patrick Antonen, City Clerk
Dated: September 23, 2025
Published two times in the Quad Community Press on September 30 and October 7, 2025.
CITY OF CIRCLE PINES, MINNESOTA
ASSESSMENT
NOTICE OF HEARING ON PROPOSED
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN:
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the City Council will meet at 7:00 p.m., on October 14, 2025, at City Hall, 200 Civic Heights Circle, Circle Pines, Minnesota, to pass upon the proposed assessment for delinquent city accounts.
The proposed assessment roll is on file for public inspection at the City Clerk’s Office. The total amount of the proposed assessment is $648.75 Written or oral objections will be considered at the meeting. No appeal may be taken as to the amount of an assessment unless a signed, written objection is filed with the Clerk prior to the hearing or presented to the presiding officer at the hearing. The Council may, upon such notice, consider any objection to the amount of a proposed individual assessment at any adjourned meeting upon such further notice to the affected property owners, as it deems advisable. If an assessment is contested or there is an adjourned hearing, the following procedure will be followed:
1. The city will present its case first by calling witnesses who may testify by narrative or by examination, and by the introduction of exhibits. After each witness has testified, the contesting party will be allowed to ask questions. This procedure will be repeated with each witness until neither side has further questions.
2. After the City has presented all its evidence, the objector may call witnesses or present such testimony as the objector desires. The same procedure for questioning the City’s witnesses will be followed with the objector’s witnesses.
3. Counsel may represent the objector.
4. Minnesota rules of evidence will not be strictly applied; however, they may be considered and argued to the Council as to the weight of items of evidence or testimony presented to the Council.
5 The entire proceedings will be digitally recorded.
6. At the close of the presentation of evidence, the objector may make a final presentation to the Council based on the evidence and the law. No new evidence may be presented at this point.
7. The Council may adopt the proposed assessment at the hearing.
An owner may appeal the assessment to the district court pursuant to Minnesota Statutes Section 429.081 by serving notice of the appeal upon the Mayor or Clerk of the City within 30 days after the adoption of the assessment; and filing such notice with the district court within ten days after service upon the Mayor or Clerk.
(10) Unfinished business; (11) New business; (12) Notices and communications; and (13) Adjournment.
(1) Call to Order (2) Roll Call (3) Setting the Agenda (4) Pledge of Allegiance (5) Special Presentations
(6) Public Comment (7) Consent Agenda a. Approval of Minutes of Previous Meetings (8) Department Reports (9) Unfinished Business (10) New Business (11) Notices and Communications (12) Adjournment
SECTION 202.17 PETITIONS. Petitions and other papers addressed to the Council shall be read by the City Clerk upon presentation of the same to the Council. Other papers addressed to the Council and written materials submitted for the record or information of the City Council will be processed in accordance with the Rules of Decorum adopted by the City Council.
SECTION 202.20 AMENDMENT OF RULES.
These rules, or any of them, may be temporarily suspended by consent of a majority of all Council members and shall not be repealed, altered or amended, unless by concurrence of a majority of the whole Council, and upon notice given at some preceding meeting Section 2. Effective Date. This ordinance shall be in force and effect from and after its passage and publication according to the Lino Lakes City Charter. Adopted by the Lino Lakes City Council on this 22nd day of September, 2025. Rob Rafferty, Mayor ATTEST: Roberta Colotti, CMC City Clerk Published one time in the Quad Community Press on September 30, 2025. CITY OF LINO LAKES
NOTICE OF PUBLIC ASSESSMENT HEARING 2025 UNPAID SPECIAL CHARGES INCURRED BY THE CITY FOR DELINQUENT UTILITY CHARGES IN THE CITY OF LINO LAKES, ANOKA COUNTY, MINNESOTA
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, a disabled individual may, one week in advance, contact City Hall by phone at (763) 784-5898, or TDD (763) 231-2617; or in writing to request reasonable assistance to be able to participate in these proceedings.
Published one time in the Quad Community Press on September 30, 2025.
ANOKA COUNTY, MINNESOTA
Notice is hereby given that the City Council of the City of Lino Lakes, Minnesota will meet Council Chambers at City Hall, 600 Town Center Parkway, on Monday, the 13th of October at 6:30 P.M. to consider the assessment of the following:
CITY OF CIRCLE PINES, MINNESOTA
NOTICE OF HEARING ON DELINQUENT UTILITIES
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN:
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the City Council will meet at 7:00 p.m., on October 14, 2025, at City Hall, 200 Civic Heights Circle, Circle Pines, Minnesota, to consider, and possibly approve, the proposed certification to the County Auditor for collection with other taxes, unpaid charges for storm sewer, sanitary sewer, water, garbage, refuse, and recycling charges. Written or oral objections will be considered at the meeting.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC ASSESSMENT HEARING 2025 UNPAID SPECIAL CHARGES INCURRED BY THE CITY FOR DELINQUENT UTILITY CHARGES IN THE CITY OF LINO LAKES, ANOKA COUNTY, MINNESOTA Notice is hereby given that the City Council of the City of Lino Lakes, Minnesota will meet in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 600 Town Center Parkway, on Monday, the 13th of October 2025 at 6:30 P.M. to consider the assessment of the following: TOTAL CITY-WIDE SPECIAL CHARGES PROPOSED TO BE ASSESSED
TOTAL CITY-WIDE SPECIAL CHARGES PROPOSED TO BE ASSESSED Special Charges Unpaid Amount Delinquent Utility Charges $192,504.13
The City-Wide estimated total of the assessment roll is $192,504.13. For an individual owner’s delinquent charges, see the proposed assessment roll on file in the City Clerk’s office.
If, after the hearing, the City Council finds that the amounts claimed as delinquent are due and unpaid, the city may certify the unpaid charges to the County Auditor for collection as other taxes are collected.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, a disabled individual may, one week in advance, contact City Hall by phone at (763) 784-5898, or TDD (763) 231-2617; or in writing to request reasonable assistance to be able to participate in these proceedings.
Patrick Antonen, City Clerk
Dated: September 22, 2025
CITY OF CIRCLE PINES
NOTICE OF PUBLIC ACCURACY TEST
Assessments for Delinquent Utility Charges shall be payable pursuant to Minnesota 429.101& 444.075 and Sections 401.3, 402.14 & 404.10 of the City Code in one (1) installment payable in 2026. The single installment shall include the annual principal, a delinquent assessment administration charge of $30 plus interest calculated from the date of the adoption the assessment resolution to the end of 2025 plus twelve (12) months of the next year bear interest at the rate of 5.00% per annum.
Published one time in the Quad Community Press on September 30, 2025.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a public accuracy test of vote counting equipment to be used in the November 4, 2025 General Election will be held on Thursday, October 9, 2025 at 10:00 AM at Circle Pines City Hall, 200 Civic Heights Circle, Circle Pines, MN 55014.
If you would like to witness this demonstration, you are welcome to do so at the above mentioned location.
Chandra Peterson, Assistant City Administrator for Public Services
The City-Wide estimated total of the assessment roll is $192,504.13. For an individual property owner’s delinquent charges, see the proposed assessment roll on file in the City Clerk’s office. Assessments for Delinquent Utility Charges shall be payable pursuant to Minnesota Statutes 429.101& 444.075 and Sections 401.3, 402.14 & 404.10 of the City Code in one (1) single installment payable in 2026. The single installment shall include the annual principal, a delinquent assessment administration charge of $30 plus interest calculated from the date of the adoption of the assessment resolution to the end of 2025 plus twelve (12) months of the next year and shall bear interest at the rate of 5.00% per annum. The proposed assessment roll is on file in the City Clerk’s office, and any written or oral objections will be considered at the public hearing. No appeal may be taken as to the amount of any assessment unless a signed, written objection is filed with the City Clerk prior to the hearing or presented to the presiding officer at the hearing. An appeal to district court may be made by serving notice upon the Mayor or City Clerk within 30 days after adoption of the assessment roll and filing such notice with district court within 10 days after service upon the Mayor or City Manager. Applications must be made within 30 days following the adoption of the assessment roll by the City Council.
Dated: September 22, 2025
By Order of the City Council Roberta Colotti, City Clerk
The proposed assessment roll is on file in the City Clerk’s office, and any written or oral objections will be considered at the public hearing. No appeal may be taken as to the amount assessment unless a signed, written objection is filed with the City Clerk prior to the hearing presented to the presiding officer at the hearing. An appeal to district court may be serving notice upon the Mayor or City Clerk within 30 days after adoption of the assessment and filing such notice with district court within 10 days after service upon the Mayor Manager. Applications must be made within 30 days following the adoption of the assessment roll by the City Council.
Published one time in the Quad Community Press on September 30, 2025.
CITY OF LINO LAKES
ORDINANCE NO. 16-25
AMENDING CHAPTER 202, COUNCIL AND COMMISSION PROCEDURES
Dated: September 22, 2025
Published one time in the Quad Community Press on September 30, 2025. RICE CREEK WATERSHED DISTRICT PUBLIC NOTICE OF VACANCY
By Order of the City Council
The Council of Lino Lakes ordains:
Section 1. That Chapter 202, Council and Commission Procedures, of the Lino Lakes Code of Ordinances, be amended to read as follows: SECTION 202.04 ORDER OF BUSINESS.
At the hour appointed for meeting, the members shall be called to order by the Mayor, and in his or her absence by the Acting Mayor, and in the absence of both, by the City Clerk. The City Clerk shall call the roll, note the absentees and announce whether a quorum is present. In the absence of the City Clerk, the Mayor shall appoint a secretary pro-tem. Upon the appearance of a quorum the Council shall proceed to business, which shall be conducted in the following order:
(1) Call to order; (2) Roll call;
(3) Pledge of allegiance;
(4) Public comment;
(5) Setting the agenda;
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 103B.227 and § 103D.311 that a vacancy will occur on the Rice Creek Watershed District Board of Managers due to the expiration on January 17, 2026, of the term of Jess Robertson, City of Blaine. Term of the appointment is for three years. Managers are eligible to be reappointed. Persons interested in being appointed to serve on the Rice Creek Watershed District Board of Managers may submit their names for consideration to the Anoka County Board of Commissioners, the appointing authority. Minn. Stat. § 103D.311 permits cities in the district to jointly or severally submit nominees to the county board for consideration. As city nominees are
/s/______________________________________ Roberta Colotti City Clerk
Published in the Quad Community Press on September 30, 2025.
(6) Presentations of petitions, memorials and demonstrations;
(7) Approval of minutes of previous meetings;
(8) Consent agenda;
(9) Reports of city officers and motions, resolutions and reading of ordinances;
Madeline Dolby
