White Bear Township passes $8.2 million preliminary levy
BY JACKIE BUSSJAEGER CONTRIBUTING WRITER
The $8.2 million 2027 preliminary levy will go forward after citizens of White Bear Township approved it at the 2026 Annual Meeting. As a township, the citizens are given the direct responsibility of setting the annual property tax levy, unlike cities where elected officials make the decision.
While the levy was approved as recommended by city staff, citizens shared concerns about costs and about the suitability of proposed meeting spaces for public meetings.
Town Finance Officer Tom Kelly explained that the preliminary levy is a worst-case scenario expenditure ceiling and is typically whittled down to a lower number by the time the proposed levy comes to the Town Board for approval in September.
The total levy proposal represents a 13 percent increase from the 2026 preliminary levy. Projected increases in costs include updating the township’s comprehensive plan, new state leave mandates and wage increases. Residents presented ideas for cost-saving measures, and requested that updated information be shared more promptly through the township website.
Town Administrator Patrick Christopherson addressed the comments that expressed concern about high costs in the estimation.
“To set a preliminary levy before the first quarter of the year is over is difficult to realistically do,” he said. “It seems high because this is like throwing darts at this point. We will have a more realistic number to present in September. This is not set in stone; this is an initial ceiling. Two and a half months into the year is unrealistic to me, but we have to do it.”
The proposed preliminary levy was approved 14-10 by the township residents in attendance.
The voters in attendance also set the time and place for the town board budget meeting and the 2027 annual meeting, but multiple attendees expressed concern that the Heritage Hall building on Otter Lake Road does not have the capacity to host highly attended meetings.
Town Counsel Chad Lemmons explained that large meetings used to be held at Otter Lake Elementary, but the school has declined to host future meetings of this type due to safety concerns. The meeting must be held in a public space within the boundaries of the township, further shortening the list of options.
Lemmons stated that the decision must be voted on before the end of the night, though added he would review the statute to see if alternative venues could be made available for
SEE LEVY, PAGE 23
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
What began as a small operation run out of a garage in Vadnais Heights in 1976 has grown into a food packaging company that now needs a 114,000-square-foot warehouse and office facility. Nextera Packaging’s move into the
new facility has begun, and “opening day” is planned for April 13. The building, located at 5200 Centerville Road in White Bear Township, is a part of Endeavor Development’s Park 35E development.
“It’s perfect, serendipitous. We are getting into this new headquarters, and it's our 50th anni-
versary,” said Ethan Cook, vice president of brand and culture.
Nextera has been a family-owned company since its inception. The company, founded by Roger Adams, was originally called Machine Sales and Service. For a time, it was known as Packaging Sales and
SEE NEXTERA, PAGE 7
during a recent rehearsal for
SHANNON GRANHOLM
Nextera Packaging’s new building is located at 5200 Centerville Road.
New business opens in former MC’s Taco & Tequila space
Cooper’s Kitchen & Spirits has opened its doors in the former MC’s Taco & Tequila space, located at 1190 County Road J in White Bear
Township. MC’s closed at the end of 2025.
Cooper’s is owned by Trever Peerson and Tim Trochman. Trochman also owns the Rusty Cow Café in Circle Pines.
Cooper’s Kitchen offers a blend of
casual comfort and dining. On the menu, customers will find classic, quality bar favorites including burgers, sandwiches and shareable appetizers. Behind the bar, there are beers and cocktails along with a whiskey and bourbon selection.
“We’re excited to give you a place that feels like your go-to neighborhood spot from day one,” Peerson said. “At Cooper’s, you can expect a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere where great food, cold drinks and good company come together. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick bite, catching a game, or meeting up with friends and family, our goal is simple: deliver great service, consistent food and a place you’ll want to come back to again and again.”
For more information about Cooper’s, visit https://cooperswbl.com/.
Humble Roots expands to downtown White Bear Lake
Humble Roots Boutique is expanding. The boutique will open a second location in downtown White Bear Lake and share a space with Oak & Iron on Fourth Street. Currently, the store has another location in Centerville located at 7095 Centerville Road.
The business began moving items into its new space at the end of March.
Business owners Tiffany Downing and Evonne Bisson say they are hopeful to have a soft opening during the downtown White Bear Lake Spring Fling event scheduled for Saturday, April 18.
LIONS BELGIAN WAFFLE BREAKFAST
When: 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Sunday, April 12
Where: Vadnais Heights Commons, 655 E County Road F
Details: Waffle breakfast, fire truck tours and organization booths including Ransey County Sheriff, Minnesota Lions Foundation, Special Olympics Minnesota, Can Do Canines, Time on the Water, Sleep in Heavenly Peace, Scout troops. Vadnais Heights Green Team. See website for cost.
Contact: cityvadnaisheights.com/258/SpecialEvents
FUTURES IN BLOOM
When: 7:15-8:45 a.m. Thursday, April 9
Where: Century College, East Campus Lincoln Mall
Details: Beakfast fundraiser to support Century College students seeking to become part of Minnesota's healthcae workforce. RSVP. Contact: 651-444-2314 or century.edu/giving/foundationevents
SPRING BINGO AND BRUNCH
When: 10-11 a.m. Thursday, April 9
Where: St. Stephen Lutheran Church, 1965 East County Road E, White Bear Lake
Details: Free community event with Bingo, trivia and brunch. RSVP. Contact: 651-777-1107 or office@ststephenwbl.org
ZEPHYR GALA
When: 509 p.m. Saturday, April 10
Where: JX Event Venue, 123 2nd St., Stillwater
Details: Signature fundraising event for Mahtomedi Area Education Foundation supporting Mahtomedi students and teachers.Ticket information online. Contact: onecau.se/zephyrgala26
EMPOWERED RELIEF
When: 3-5 p.m. Tuesday, April 14
Where: HealthPartners White Bear Lake Clinic, 1430 Highway 96 E.
Details: Two-hour class to learn about pain relief skills and create a personal plan. Contact: eventbrite.com/e/empowered-relief-athealthpartners-clinic-white-bear-lake-tickets
MAHTOMEDI GARDEN CLUB
When: 6:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 14
Where: Mahtomedi District Education Center, room 103, 1520 Mahtomedi Ave.
Details: Monthly program “Nature's impact on health with Mary Jo Kreitzer” is open to members and the public. Advance registration required. Contact: mahtomedigardenclub.org
HOT TOPICS: WATTS, WATER AND SECRECY: THE HIDDEN COST OF DATA CENTERS
When: 6:15-7:45 p.m. Thursday, April 16
Where: Maplewood Library, 3025 Southlawn Dr.
Details: Learn about data centers, including the demand for natural resources. Hear from Kathryn Hoffman, CEO of Minnesota for Environmental Advocacy, and a resident who will share her lived experience of a data center proposal in her community, and what is being done to address these issues. Register online. Contact: lwv-wbla.org
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Thank you, readers
Are you ready for spring as our local garden centers begin to open? This community is an amazing place to live, from our local schools, sports, arts, events and entertainment, to the wonderful local options to dine out and enjoy ice cream. This community is next-level. Here at the White Bear Press and Vadnais Heights Press, we are grateful for you. Many of you have already made the decision that you would like to receive the paper regularly through a subscription. We have received great feedback. A few of our readers have asked for more detailed crime reports and more investigative stories. Others have asked for less negative news and more feel-good stories. We take your input to heart as we strive to be your best source for community information featuring hyper-local news. Thank you for your vote of confidence for all of those who have supported in the past with a subscription to your locally-owned newspaper.
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Carter Johnson is Publisher of Press Publications.
UCare cancellation prompts further thought to insurance alternatives
FHealth Care Hurdles
or 300,000 residents within Minnesota and Wisconsin, health care just became one dangerous step closer to impossibility. The cancellation of health insurance provider UCare exemplifies the struggle of those caught between spending an exorbitant amount of their pay check on insurance and remaining uninsured. More pressingly, it shows the need for an alternative solution away from insurance.
UCare was first established in 1984 by the University of Minnesota to give low-income earners access to healthcare. The provider was uniquely inexpensive, offering monthly payments of $30-$50 in place of the usual $300-$500. At its peak, it had approximately 600,000 users across the state and some western-Wisconsin territories.
The affordability of UCare was a welcome alternative to the extremely expensive U.S. health care system. It provided a resource for those who didn’t have the means for more expensive health care. UCare would have been the perfect solution, if it didn’t fail.
Typically, Americans receive health insurance through their employers or the Affordable Care Act marketplace, where
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individuals compare and enroll in health insurance packages. The government funds programs like Medicaid and Medicare for low-income individuals and seniors. Premiums on insurance are also offered for those between 100%-400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). This translates to a yearly salary of $62,500 or less for an individual, or $128,600 for a family of four. An estimated 5.8% of Washington county households are in the 100% FPL range. However, despite insurance, U.S. health care is still notoriously expensive. In 2024, the average price per capita of healthcare was $15,474, roughly double that of its European counterparts.
Premiums and government subsidies are solutions to the widespread problem of healthcare expenses, but millions are still “underinsured.” They have coverage without government assistance, but struggle to pay out of pocket costs. With UCare gone, this title increasingly encompasses Minnesotans.
In all, UCare was short lived, only lasting 42 years following recent financial losses. In 2024, UCare lost an estimated $1.4 billion due to rising medical costs that outweighed government reimbursements and unpaid claims. After being declared in “hazardous financial condition” by the Minnesota Department of Health, UCare’s executive leadership decided to shut down the provider and transfer 300,000 patients to health insurance
provider Medica, which is significantly more expensive. Now, hundreds of thousands are forced to pay ten times what they would have previously for coverage. These costs open up a broader issue. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, those without health insurance are less likely to get necessary drugs or comprehensive treatment due to price. Once people start to view their health as a second priority, society is threatened.
UCare’s cancellation is a threat to public health and proves that the future of health access cannot lie within insurance. What was once a seemingly perfect and inexpensive insurance option had its illusion shattered by money, or lack thereof. Now, individuals are forced to resort to an option that they can’t afford. Without government assistance, people are either forced to be uninsured or overspend on health insurance. These cannot be the only options for those who are uninsured. There must be an alternative way from both insurance and government funding, because subsidies for some just aren’t enough to save lives.
Evie Gardner is a junior at Saint Paul Academy and Summit School. She serves as the news editor for the student paper, The Rubicon.
Carter C.
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Publisher’s View
Carter Johnson
Evie Gardner
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Rotary: connection and community
When I first moved to White Bear about three years ago, I looked at the Rotary website, whitebearlakerotary. org, but somehow missed a small yet meaningful nugget.
Then, a little over a year ago, I came across a letter to the editor from Kevin, who was then the President of the daytime White Bear Lake Rotary. In that letter, Kevin mentioned an evening satellite club that meets just once a month. That caught my attention—and it was the very detail I hadn’t noticed on the website. So one Thursday night, I simply showed up to the Northeast Metro Rotary Satellite Club meeting at Four Deuces. I didn’t know anyone, but from the moment I walked in, I felt welcome. And I knew almost immediately that I had found exactly what I’d been searching for: connection with others in our community, meaningful service projects, and a sense of belonging that reaches beyond yourself.
Rotary has been a refreshing reminder of how good it feels to be part of something bigger. What I appreciate most is that it truly is a great fit for anyone, no matter your background or experience. Even if you’ve never volunteered before, you’ll find a place here. All it takes is the willingness to show up and be part of something positive.
If you’ve been looking for a simple, genuine, and welcoming way to get involved in your community and meet great people, I encourage you to check out the White Bear Rotary—or come join us at the satellite club’s meeting on the first Thursday of each month at Four Deuces (except during the summer) at 6 p.m. You might be surprised by just how much you get out of it.
Karrie Galetka White Bear Lake
No opposing view offered
The March 25 edition of our Press reported on ICE Metro Surge. Did our local Press journalist include an opposing view in his news report? Did our Press mention the fact Biden chose to opened our borders and allow unchecked illegal aliens into our neighborhoods? Did our Press report the fact that if Biden had not unlawfully done this, ICE would not have been in our cities removing criminal illegal aliens – aliens who chose not to follow our laws and come here legally. Question: Can our Press, Mayor of Vadnais Heights or anyone please cite any country that has open,unchecked borders? My sympathy is for family members’ who have been harmed or killed by illegal aliens. Thank you to all immigrants
who waited in line and came here lawfully. I’m glad we are neighbors!
Terry Nyblom Vadnais Heights
Dear Dr. K
Another beautifully written essay about the school structural accomplishments of its 2019 Building Our Future bill. The facilities are beautiful. I was at meeting at the Sunrise Senior Center back in 2019 and asked what percent was figured for cost overruns. I will stand corrected, but I believe you said 6-8%. Lately, it sounds like it may be be more than twice that amount. I have asked how our students compare with students in other districts of comaparable size. I know our graduation rate is up as is elsewhere and I believe our students in two out of three categories (reading, math, and science) have improved and are above average. Most business' report to their stockholders their facts and numbers, good or bad, on at least an annual basis. This is transparency. I send out a big “thumbs up” to Dan Skaar for requesting accountability for the Building Our Future referendum . We need more board members like Dan. Thank you, Dan.
Gregg “Whitie” Johnson White Bear Lake
Open discussion is good governance
A recent report by KSTP-TV revealed a troubling rule change by the White Bear Lake Area Schools Board that deserves the attention of every taxpayer and parent in our community.
Imagine attending a school board meeting where decisions can pass without discussion—and where even asking for discussion requires permission from the majority.
That is essentially the situation created by the board’s new policy involving the use of a “consent agenda.”
Most residents have never heard the term. A consent agenda allows multiple items—sometimes including contracts or spending decisions—to be approved in a single vote without discussion. For routine matters, that can make sense.
But the board has now adopted a rule requiring a majority vote just to allow discussion of an item placed on that agenda.
Three simple questions follow: Why would a governing body limit discussion before approving decisions? Why should a board member need permission to ask questions in public? Why wouldn’t transparency and open debate strengthen public confidence in district leadership?
Agreeing to discuss something does not mean agreeing with it. It simply
means allowing taxpayers and parents to hear the questions and the answers.
Most residents of White Bear Lake are busy living their lives. They rely on elected school board members to ask questions and ensure accountability on their behalf.
Open discussion is not a threat to good governance—it is the proof of it. Transparency and accountability are not optional in public governance—and voters will have their say on that in November.
Scott Nintzel White Bear Township
Deserved more coverage
Your coverage of No Kings Day on page 21 was minimal at best for a much needed inspirational day of togetherness. We who attended deserved better coverage.
Alice Smith Mahtomedi
Value persistence in seeking answers
In the article in the White Bear Press on March 25 titled, “School Board adopts consent agenda policy with 6-1 vote”, I respectfully disagree with Board Member Daniels' assertion that Mr. Skaar is obstructing the Board's business. For instance, Mr. Skaar has inquired about the corrective measures taken following deficiencies in the high school's enrollment procedures, which allowed a 22-year-old individual—who had previously appeared before a Washington County judge in 2025 for a probation violation related to a 2023 indecent exposure incident—to enroll in our high school, potentially placing students at risk. It is appropriate to ask what steps have been implemented by the district to prevent similar incidents in the future. This question remains relevant and should be addressed until the community receives a satisfactory response. As a member of the community, I value persistence in seeking answers over silence.
Dianna Delaney Hugo
Community shows up
Dear White Bear Lake: In my years serving families as a funeral director, I have seen a great deal of loss—but the past few weeks in White Bear Lake have stood apart.
We have had the honor of caring for the family of Sergeant Nicole Amor, a young woman from this community who gave her life in service to our country. Just days later, we were called to care for the family of Jessi Hinrichs and her three children after a
Nerf Wars begin
This time of year, the Washington County Sheriff's Office (WCSO) deputies start to receive calls related to high school students engaging in Nerf Wars. It’s long been a tradition of juniors and seniors, although the activity is not in any way affiliated with the district.
WCSO Public Information Officer Pafoua Lo said that last year, the sheriff’s office responded to two calls relating to potential Nerf War activity within Mahtomedi and 10 calls across the county.
“We encourage our community to have fun safely. Nerf Wars are a great way to enjoy friendly competition,” Lo said.
Lo provided the following tips:
• Play only in private or approved areas. Avoid parks, streets and public spaces where your activity could be mistaken for something serious.
• Use brightly colored blasters. Do not alter or paint them to look like real weapons.
• Wear eye protection and respect all participants
and bystanders.
• If approached by law enforcement, follow instructions calmly and keep blasters pointed away.
• Inform neighbors or property owners when organizing large games.
“Keep it safe. Keep it fun,” Lo said.
Minnesota implements extra distracted driving enforcement
The Minnesota Department of Public Safety Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) is leading and coordinating a distracted driving education and extra enforcement campaign through Thursday, April 30.
The campaign is in partnership with the Lehman family. Ashley Lehman was seriously injured last July in a T-bone crash at a four-way intersection. She later died from her injuries. Her family is joining local traffic safety officials and OTS calling
tragic house fire. These are the kinds of losses that shake an entire town. And yet, what defines this moment is not just the heartbreak—it is the extraordinary character of the White Bear Lake community.
I have watched neighbors line the streets in quiet solidarity, holding American flags with a kind of reverence that doesn’t need explanation. I have seen sidewalks outside our funeral home filled with handwritten messages of hope and care. I have seen people show up—not because they were asked to, but because that’s who they are.
White Bear Lake doesn’t turn away from grief. It leans in. It shows up. It wraps families in a kind of steady, genuine compassion that cannot be manufactured.
We often speak about first responders—and we should. Their work is vital. But there is another side to these moments. After the headlines fade and the sirens are gone, families are left to face the reality of loss. That is where funeral directors step in as a “last responder”. It is quiet work, often unseen, but it matters deeply. And in a community like this, that work is met with partnership, trust, and support. What strikes me most is this: while these recent losses happened under extraordinary circumstances, the need for care is the same in every situation. Every family who experiences a death deserves to be met with the same compassion that White Bear Lake has so naturally and generously given. I could not be more grateful to serve in a community that understands how to care for its own. White Bear Lake has shown, in the clearest possible way, that even in the hardest moments, love and compassion are stronger. And I am incredibly proud of our staff. In weeks like these, their dedication reflects the very best of this profession.
It is an honor to serve this community.
Scott Mueller Mueller Memorial
Lucky to have editor
I loved Managing Editor Shannon Granholm's column “Reflecting on a decade at Press,” in the March 24 issue. It was very intimate, humble and honest. Shannon's ability to capture the essence and spirit of the individuals she writes about in her articles runs deep in her. Her articles about MSG Nicole Amor and Jessi Hinrichs brought tears to my eyes. Our community is so lucky to have Shannon.
for safer driving this month.
“Almost every crash that happens is an avoidable tragedy. We want to protect families by reminding drivers to focus on the road,” said OTS Director Mike Hanson, who added that putting phones away and setting aside other tasks while driving saves lives. “Lives really do depend on how much attention you give the road.”
According to OTS, from 2020 to 2026, there were 33,183 distracted driving crashes that resulted in 888 serious injuries and 162 fatalities. In 2025, there were at least 21 fatalities related to distracted driving and 159 serious injuries related to distracted driving.
Visit HandsFreeMN.org and DriveSmartMN.org for more information.
Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Office of Traffic Safety
Ellen Maas White Bear Lake
PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEFS
COPS&COURTS
WHITE BEAR LAKE POLICE REPORTS
The White Bear Lake Police Department reported the following selected incidents:
• A White Bear Lake man was arrested for DWI following a traffic stop on Highway 61 March 25.
• Officers responded to a noise complaint in the 3500 block of Century Avenue March 25.
• A Maplewood woman was arrested for DWI following a traffic stop in the 3400 block of White Bear Avenue March 25.
• Officers responded to an animal complaint in the 1900 block of Oak Knoll Drive March 26.
• Officers responded to a noise complaint in the area of Clark Avenue and Third Street March 26.
• A juvenile incident was reported in the 2600 block of County Road E March 26.
• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 1900 block of Buerkle Road March 26.
Officers conducted surveillance of a warrant suspect in the 5300 block of Bald Eagle Blvd. March 26.
• Theft was reported in the 2000 block of County Road E March 26.
• Officers responded to a domestic incident in the 1800 block of Cedar Avenue March 26.
• A man was arrested for DWI following a traffic stop for multiple violations on Otter Lake Road March 27.
• A Blaine man was arrested for a warrant March 27 following a traffic stop on County Road F East.
• Theft was reported March 27 in the 4800 block of Highway 61.
• A noise disturbance was reported in the 3600 block of Hoffman Road March 28.
• Officers responded to a loud music complaint in the 1800 block of Birch Street March 28.
• Officers responded to a report of a fight in the 3200 block of White
Bear Avenue March 28.
• Theft was reported in the 2100 block of Randy Avenue March 28.
• Officers responded to a report of a near-collision with a motorized bicycle March 28 in the 2100 block of Fourth Street.
• Officers respond to a dispute in the 3500 block of Century Avenue March 28.
• A noise complaint was reported in the 4700 block of Centerville Road March 28.
• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 2600 block of County Road E East March 28.
• On Oakdale man was arrested for DWI following a traffic stop near White Bear Avenue and Interstate 694 March 29. Disorderly conduct was reported at the intersection of White Bear Avenue and Orchard Lane March 29.
• A traffic stop in the 4700 block of Highway 61 March 29 found juveniles out past curfew and their parents were contacted.
• Harassment was reported in the 2100 block of Fourth Street March 29.
• A St. Paul man was arrested for DWI following a report of a driving complaint in the 2000 block of Fourth Street March 30.
• A Stillwater residents was tricked into bringing $11,000 to a bitcoin ATM for deposit into a “government mailbox” (bitcoin machine) in the 1200 block of Gun Club Road March 30. The deposit was thwarted by family members and staff and no loss occurred. Suspects have not yet been identified.
• A woman was arrested for DWI following a driving complaint in the 2100 block of Fourth Street March 31.
• Officers responded to disorderly conduct in the 2100 block of Division Court March 31.
• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 4600 block of Bald Eagle Avenue March 31.
WASHINGTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office reported the following selected calls for service in Birchwood Village, Dellwood, Grant, Mahtomedi, Pine Springs and Willernie:
Birchwood Village
• Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies took a report of anti-Semitic signs posted on telephone poles on Lake Avenue March 10 and removed them.
Grant
• Residents in the 11000 block of Julianne Avenue N. on March 8 reported racist threats and damage to their property. Deputies described the complainant as uncooperative, demanding and unable to provide details. They advised the complainant to refer to the civil unit.
• Deputies were called out to Indian Hills Golf Course in the 6000 block of Keats Avenue N. March 10 to renew a trespass notice.
• A speeding motorist was cited March 13 on 75th Street N. and Manning Avenue N. for speeding 70 mph in a 55-mph zone.
Mahtomedi
• Deputies on patrol in the 1000 block of Lincolntown Avenue March 8 observed a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed without front license plates. After the traffic stop, the motorist received a citation for expired registration. A second motorist was cited for speeding on Lincolntown Avenue and
RAMSEY COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS
The Ramsey County Sheriff's Office reported the following selected incidents in Vadnais Heights and White Bear Township: Vadnais Heights
• Deputies arrested a 39-year-old man from White Bear Lake for assault March 2 in the 1100 block of County Road E East after he assaulted a 52-year-old woman from Minneapolis who is his co-worker, leaving her with a concussion and facial injuries.
• A 50-year-old woman from Circle Pines in the 800 block of County Road E East reported March 2 being scammed out of $15,000 by a man she met on Facebook.
• Deputies took an informational report from a 17-year-old female in the 4500 block of Morningside Avenue March 2. The female told them she’s received harassing calls from an unknown number.
• On March 2, deputies arrested a 25-year-old man in the 800 block of County Road E East on an open and active warrant after responding to a complaint about a Walmart customer loitering in the store, harassing females and using a phone charger that’s set up for customers.
• Deputies arrested a 47-year-old Roseville woman for DWI March 3 after she crashed the Subaru Outback she was driving into a commercial truck near the intersection of Labore Road and County Road D East and refused field sobriety tests.
• Deputies issued a citation for theft to a 31-year-old St. Paul woman March 3 after she was caught by employees at a business in the 800 block of County Road E East attempting to leave the store without paying for merchandise.
• Deputies issued a theft citation March 5 to a 25-year-old man from St. Paul after he was caught attempting to leave a store in the 800 block of County Road E East without paying for merchandise.
Dunbar Way on March 9. Two more motorists were cited on March 11 for speeding on Long Lake Road. A fifth motorist was cited at 10:20 p.m. March 11 on East Avenue and Stillwater Road for stop sign violation. A sixth motorist was cited for driving after revocation at midnight March 12 on Long Lake Road and Century Avenue, following a traffic stop for no rear license plate. After writing out the citation, deputies explained that the motorist would not be allowed to drive his vehicle away from the stop. A seventh motorist was pulled over on Hilton Trail N. and 72nd Street and issued a written warning for expired registration on March 12. Motorist No. 8 was cited at midnight March 14 for hands-free violation on Woodland Drive and Century Avenue.
• Wildwood Road residents at 2:02 a.m. March 9 reported that an app on their phone alerted them that their car door was open. Deputies checked the vehicle and found it secure and locked. Meanwhile, deputies took call reporting a theft from vehicle at 3:59 p.m. that day, also from Wildwood Road.
A motorist on Hallam Avenue S. and Hilton Trail N. was arrested for DWI at 1:32 a.m. March 10 after being pulled over for speeding and failure to maintain lane. Rather than stopping for deputies’ flashing lights, the driver pulled into a driveway. During the stop, deputies sniffed out the odor of an alcoholic beverage. After standardized field sobriety testing was performed to the driver’s detriment, he was taken into custody.
• While on patrol in the 800 block of Stillwater
• On March 6, deputies located at 63-year-old woman in the 800 block of County Road E East wanted by another agency for domestic abuse, detained her, contacted the other agency, then released her after learning they are still investigating the incident.
• Deputies responded March 6 to a report of a Dodge RAM pickup truck that was stolen from a car dealership in the 3300 block of Highway 61. The incident is under investigation.
White Bear Township
• Deputies responded March 2 to a report of racially motivated graffiti on street signs near the intersection of Park Avenue and Hugo Road. Deputies removed the signs and arranged for them to be replaced.
• On March 2, deputies arrested a 50-year-old man from North Branch for a violation and order for protection after he was found to be sitting in a vehicle for more than 30 minutes outside a garage in the 5600 block of Otter View Trail in which the 45-year-old woman with the order against him was present.
• Deputies responded March 2 to a report of shots fired in the 5900 block of Mallard Ponds Drive and did not find any evidence of a gun being fired. The incident is under investigation. An animal control officer responded March 4 to a report of an unattended dog running around a neighborhood near the area of Stillwater Street and Stillwater Court harassing other dogs. The owner had the dog back inside before arrival.
• An animal control officer responded March 5 to a report that a resident’s chickens in the 5700 block of Otter View Trail had escaped their coop. The owner had rounded them up and got them back inside before the officer arrived.
Road at 1:33 p.m. March 11, deputies were flagged down by a male who told them a family member had hit him in the head while they were driving home. Deputies drove to the residence to find out what it was all about and met the other party in the confrontation. Both parties were advised to separate for the evening and to phone 911 if the situation reescalates.
• Random household items were reported left in the Wildwood Park lot on March 11, and public works was advised.
• Deputies promised to patrol the area around the apartment complex on Stillwater Road following a March 12 complaint about people in the hallway and downstairs making too much noise.
A resident in the 1000 block of Hallam Avenue N. reported receiving a phone call on March 13 from people saying they had his son. The complainant knew it was a scam attempt and wanted to give deputies the scammer’s phone number.
• Wildwood Road residents on March 14 reported being scammed online out of $700.
Pine Springs
• Deputies on patrol at 6:08 a.m. March 11 observed a motor vehicle sitting in the center of the roundabout on Hilton Trail N. and 60th Street N. The driver informed them that he was driving too fast for the conditions before he crashed. As the motorist waited on the phone for AAA to come out, deputies advised him to slow down next time he got his vehicle up and running.
NEXTERA PACKAGING: ‘Continues connecting food to people’ in new space
Service. Eventually, it was renamed Nextera Packaging.
Scott VanderWerf, the current CEO, is Roger’s grandson. Scott’s father, Paul VanderWerf, was CEO before Scott took over as CEO in 2022. Current CFO is Brent Adams, Roger’s son. Austin Adams, Brent’s son and Scott’s cousin, also currently works as an account executive for the company.
Prior to the move underway, the business had been located in the Vadnais Heights Business Center on Berwood Avenue since 2014. Although the location was great, company leaders say they needed more space.
“We are bursting at the seams in our current location … It was starting to slow down our operations and efficiency with how tight we were,” said Chief Operating Officer John Pullar. “We have been needing some breathing room for a while, and now this provides a launch pad for not only all of our existing projects, inventory and serving our customers, but for future growth.”
Cook explained the building in Vadnais also posed some physical challenges. One of the challenges was that the office space is split by the warehouse. “We have a south office, and we have a north office in that same building and in between is a warehouse. So, from a team unity, team efficiency standpoint … that's weighed on our team,” he said. The warehouse space is also divided: the main warehouse space divides the office space, but another warehouse space on the north end is divided by a couple other business tenants in the building.
New building
Everything about the new facility was done purposefully and with people in mind.
“I think what always rings through for our team is it always comes back to people; our customers are people; our vendors are people. Nextera is not a building. Nextera isn’t our products and services, it is our people,” Pullar said. “In all of the design decisions and choices, each thing has been done with such intentionality, not just to serve our company and processes well, but to serve our people well.”
Cook added, “The vast majority of our decisions about this building, from placement to natural light to ergonomics of chairs ... All of that is not just because we want the cool, shiny, new thing; it is very human-centered.”
Cook described the building as a com-
bination of Scandinavian and mid-century modern design. Walking into the main entrance, the open floor plan allows you to see all the action going on in the building and take in the views of the natural prairie.
“When we were originally looking at this property, we were thinking about grabbing the space closest to the freeway … When we came out here and stood on this property, we were like, ‘this is beautiful,’” Pullar recalled. “It pulled us off of the highway, which might not be the best business decision, but for us and our people to be able to experience this; you get beautiful sunlight all day long, and then the sun sets right there. It's gorgeous.”
The first level features a large and medium-sized conference room, lounge area and a work café with a garage door leading out to a patio. One place Pullar is excited about due to his engineering background is the research and development lab, which abuts a sample room.
“It looks and feels like a kitchen, and that’s because we're connecting food to people … It obviously serves us for all the technical aspects of our products, but then it's also something we can bring the customers into if they want to do a product demo, or if they want to see it in action,” Pullar explained. “The sample room will feel like a retail space with different containers. It’s almost like a shopping experience.”
The warehouse is not only significantly larger in its footprint, but is 33% taller than the warehouse space in Vadnais.
A grand staircase leads up to the second-level office space, and the office staff team is all on one level, which Cook described as a “massive win.” In addition to various offices and cubicles, there is a coffee galley. If employees need a break from their cubicle or want to switch things up, they can go work in a
coffee-shop type of atmosphere.
And the building couldn’t be in a better location, for a company that identifies as “north metro.” Employees come from Wyoming, Forest Lake, Hugo, White Bear Lake, North Oaks, Dellwood, Maplewood and Shoreview, among other cities.
“We are Northeast Metro people and really have been,” Cook said. “Our people are from here. Our business history, our roots are in this area. We love this area. We frequent the businesses of this area. So, this does feel just right.”
50 years of history
Perhaps one of the reasons the company has been so successful is because its leaders haven’t been afraid to evolve and adapt.
“Even though we have this 50-year history, we really do kind of operate like a startup. We have that level of drive and hunger for innovation,” Cook explained. Several years ago, the company switched its focus from vending and doubled down on food processors.
“Anywhere that food is packed at scale, that’s where we want to be. We have a huge breadth of people that we serve. We will absolutely serve a momand-pop restaurant who needs some to-go containers, but where we are really optimized and where our expertise I think goes the furthest and our customers get the greatest value from us is folks who might have a deal with Aldi, so they may be packing coleslaw, being labeled and then being sent to an Aldi store to be sold.”
Nextera is also unique in that its sole focus is food packaging. “Most of our competitors sell food packaging; they also sell light bulbs, bleach and everything else,” Pullar noted. “We went deep into food packaging, so we know and understand things that affect shelf life
White Bear Lake Area
Nextera forms partnership with University of St. Thomas
Approximately 3,000 square feet of Nextera’s building will be the home to the University of St. Thomas D1 golf team’s winter training facility. Nextera Chief Operating Officer John Pullar explained that the company has a connection to one of the team’s coaches and reached out to get recommendations about installing a golf simulator in the space for Nextera employees and customers.
“This space is for future expansion. It was basically going to be a glorified closet … We expect we’ll need the space in probably five years,” Pullar said. “In the meantime, we worked out an idea that was a win-win. We get the simulator that we were hoping for, and then they get the training facility they wanted.”
The area, which has its own entrance, will have four simulator bays, three for the golf team and one to be shared between the golf team and Nextera employees and customers. The facility will also have a large putting green with realistic turf built with a first-of-itskind 3D-printed underlayment with very specific contours.
“We are excited. We’ve got some TVs around, so we expect when there is a tournament going on, our team here is going to be rooting for St. Thomas because it’s the men and women we see in interactions here, and we get to see them compete,” Pullar said.
and considerations for merchandising and the right retail look.”
The company’s core values include care for people; risk for better; leave the ego; and seek the good. Subtle reminders of those tenets can be spotted throughout the building, like on a plaque on the giant wood table in the conference room or on an illuminated sign hanging on a live-moss wall.
“It is not that our people need the swanky office to have this culture and to live these values. They don't.” Cook said. “They can be in a shack, and it would still be good because of how good they are but man, is it so sweet to have a space that aligns with how great our team is … It’s that humanity piece. We are really excited for what this building is going to do for that.”
PHOTOS BY SHANNON GRANHOLM | PRESS PUBLICATIONS
The company’s core values include care for people; risk for better; leave the ego; and seek the good. Subtle reminders of those tenets can be spotted throughout the building, like an illuminated sign hanging on a live-moss wall in the coffee galley on the second floor.
The warehouse in the new building is not only significantly larger in its footprint, but is 33% taller than the warehouse space in Vadnais.
Local barbecue brand grows from family recipe to statewide sales
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
What started as a couple tinkering with a rib rub recipe at a family cabin has turned into a local barbecue brand.
Hugo residents Sarah and Josh Smith have been barbecuing together for about a decade, but they officially launched their seasoning brand Ope We’re Smokin’ BBQ last May.
“It's always been a passion for us and cooking and learning different things together through our meals,” Sarah explained. “In 2023, I started developing some health concerns that caused us to look into what we were eating. One of the main things we were eating was barbecue, and we realized that all of the seasonings that are on the market have a lot of MSG, fillers, preservatives and extra added stuff that really is not necessary.”
Sarah grew up in White Bear Lake and graduated from White Bear Lake Area High School in 2011; Josh, originally from St. Francis, is an Army veteran who served six years of active duty and six years with the Minnesota National Guard.
Even though the two have full-time
jobs — Sarah as a marketing director for a hair care company and Josh as a safety director for a trucking company — the two wanted to share their creation with the world, both in real life and on TikTok.
“We have always cooked for friends and family. That feeling of just sitting around the table and hanging out with friends and family has always been so special to us … to be able to share that with other families and other people just seemed like our path, and it seemed like a passion that we could bring forward to other people,” Sarah said.
Josh added, “If we are able to make it for ourselves, why not make it for other people too? We thought it would feel good to be able to share it with other people and not just keep it for ourselves.”
The Smiths regularly attend flea markets and pop-up events throughout the state to spread the word about their brand and gather feedback. Josh says 75% of the people they have run into while attending events are interested in finding “clean ingredients” when purchasing rubs or seasonings. “One of those things that was eye-opening when we get to talk to consumers is
how important that is for people,”
Josh said. “That definitely made an impression on me.”
Sarah said once the couple made the switch to clean ingredients, it didn’t take long for her gut health to improve significantly.
“We make our own recipes. We've sat in our kitchen formulating recipes, sat in our backyard going back and forth,” she said. “We are not just slapping a label on something somebody else created. This is truly something that we have worked on and put so much time and energy into to create the best product possible.”
The couple first launched a rib rub, because Josh loves making ribs. The rib rub works for all types of pork, including pulled pork, pork chops and even bacon. Josh mentioned some people even choose to put it on chicken, although it was not designed for that.
Next came an all-purpose seasoning, which Josh says you can put on “absolutely anything.” Most all-purpose seasonings are a combination of salt, pepper and garlic, but Josh and Sarah added crushed thyme to the recipe. “It accents the food very nicely. It pulls a lot of good, earthy flavor out of red meat and makes it a little more savory,” Josh explained.
The newest addition to the seasoning lineup, which the couple says is quickly becoming a favorite, is the honey chipotle rub. “When you first taste the seasoning, up front it is very sweet, but then the sweetness tapers off and a little bit of heat follows. It’s a nice sweet up front and a kick afterwards,”
Josh said. Sarah added, “People in Minnesota want a kick, but they want
a Minnesota kick so I think the honey chipotle kind of nails it.”
Ope We’re Smokin’ BBQ seasonings can be found online at opeweresmokin. com or Amazon. The seasonings are also available at the Argyle Moose in Hugo, 11 area Kowalski’s Markets, Northern Fire Grilling & BBQ Supply in Minnetonka, and Destination BarB-Q in Rochester. The business also partners with the Minnesota Frost and Flame food truck based out of Forest Lake.
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or citizennews@presspubs.com.
PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
Hugo residents Josh and Sarah Smith will celebrate Ope We’re Smokin’ BBQ’s one-year anniversary this May.
Ope We’re Smokin’ BBQ will host a wing sampling at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 2 at Argyle Moose in Hugo.
WBLAHS 1st in state, 2nd in nation to perform ‘Dear Evan Hansen’ musical
BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER
White Bear Lake Area High School (WBLAHS) does not typically stage spring musicals, but Music Theatre International (MTI) provided the school with an opportunity too good to pass up: a license to stage “Dear Evan Hansen,” the 2017 Tony Award winner for Best Musical.
When the show premieres April 9, White Bear will be the first stage of any kind in the state of Minnesota and only the second high school in the nation to perform “Dear Evan Hansen.”
“When it first was announced that ‘Dear Evan Hansen’ was being released to amateur and preprofessional theater programs back in December, we sent in an application, not expecting to get it,” Director Braylon Lane recalled. “Then, a random Monday morning, I got an email saying, ‘Your license for ‘Dear Evan Hansen is attached.’” According to MTI, once an application is approved, a school has six weeks to accept the contract and set show dates.
One of Lane’s first meetings was with Fall Musical
Director Wendy Suoja. “It worked out very well,” Lane said. “Typically, the musicals … with the large cast sizes are the ones that (Suoja) likes, and the contemporary, small-cast ones are typically my speed.”
A small cast allows Lane to ensure each actor delivers a truthful performance, which is especially important for a show like “Dear Evan Hansen,” which grapples with topics like cyberbullying and suicide.
Cast Member Ben Storelee explained that the show revolves around Evan Hansen, a 17-year-old boy with anxiety and depression, who gets an assignment from his therapist to write a note to himself every day. One day, Evan’s bully, Connor, steals one of Evan’s notes. The following week, Connor kills himself, and his parents believe Evan’s note was Connor’s suicide letter. Before Evan can correct them, the story explodes on social media, and Evan becomes a public figure.
“He tries to tell them he didn’t write this, but they do not believe him. It starts to go down a rabbit hole where he gets trapped in this lie,” explained Eli Murphy, who plays Evan Hansen.
Neola Luswata, who plays Evan’s social-media-savvy classmate Alana, added that her character represents the collateral damage of lies in the digital age. “She shows how, when someone lies, how quickly others can get caught up in that lie,” Luswata said. “She shows the chaos of high school in general, how different people cope with it.”
While “Dear Evan Hansen” is a musical, its modernday setting and serious subject matter make for a different viewing experience than a golden-age musical like “Hello, Dolly!” or “The Music Man.” Lucas Maahs, who plays Evan’s friend, Jared, encourages theatergoers to keep an open mind. “This is a story about real people, not caricatures of people,” Maahs remarked. “I’m trying to keep my version of Jared grounded and as complex as the other characters, even though I’m a comedic relief.”
Holly Flood, who plays Evan’s mother, Heidi, added that she feels the gravity of the story. “You—no matter who you are, no matter what age you are— have someone in your life who has been affected by depression and anxiety or suicide,” Flood commented. “Being able to see this, I hope the (show) is able to speak on this issue and help bring awareness.”
Though “Dear Evan Hansen” deals with sensitive content, Lane and the current WBLAHS students have delivered a recent string of critically acclaimed dramas, including “She Kills Monsters” and “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time.”
“We are one of those well-respected programs that produces high-quality high school theater,” said Lane. “I am so very proud of the students for the work that they are putting into this project.”
“Dear Evan Hansen” runs from April 9-12 at WBLAHS Performing Arts Center, 5040 Division Ave., Door A. Tickets are available at sites.google.com/ isd624.org/musical-theatre/tickets.
Logan Gion is a contributing writer for Press Publications. He can be reached at savoureditor@presspubs.com.
Loon Chronicles XI: Scheduled to launch next week
PHOTOS BY PAUL DOLS | PRESS PUBLICATIONS
Cast members practice a choreographed scene during a recent rehearsal for the upcoming spring musical “Dear Evan Hansen.”
Cast members Rio Hilden and Eli Murphy play the characters Zoe Murphy and Evan Hansen.
Jocassee, South Carolina, helping with their spring migration field studies, we are happy to report that our Minnesota Loons are on their way home. Now, that White Bear Lake is open,
fascinating and entertaining story of White Bear Lake’s Loons with all the White Bear Press readers. Stay tuned! Ellen Maas
ELLEN MAAS | CONTRIBUTED
Minnesota sees highest uninsured rate since 2017
New data released by the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) shows an increase in the number of uninsured Minnesota residents. According to data from the most recent Minnesota Health Access Survey, the state’s uninsured rate increased from 3.8% in 2023 to
5.8% in 2025. This equates to approximately 116,000 more Minnesotans without health insurance and is the highest uninsured rate for the state since 2017. "The sharp increase in uninsured Minnesotans over the past two years is deeply disturbing, as are the long-
The City of White Bear Lake, Minnesota Lions Hearing Foundation, ASU Cholla Brothers, White Bear Historical Society, Kathy Doucette Real Estate, VFW Post 1782, White Bear Lake Firefighters Local 5202, Hugo Lions, Twin Cities Catholic Chorale, Paul the Plumber, Inc., Vermeersch Automotive, Tony Zerwas, Rate, The Toner Team, Coldwell Banker Realty, Sleep in Heavenly Peace, White Bear Lake Fire Department and Pinetree Apple Orchard.
These financial sponsors and supporters make our show possible. Please continue to support them!
standing disparities in the uninsured rate by race/ ethnicity and income that continue to persist,” said Minnesota Commissioner of Health Brooke Cunningham. “For most people, health care is unaffordable without insurance. This results in delayed or deferred care and worse health outcomes, more medical debt for families, and increased rates of uncompensated care for health systems."
More information about the 2025 results is available at health.state.mn.us/data/economics/index.html. Minnesota Department of Health
The Real Dogs of White Bear Lake
BY RICKA MCNAUGHTON SPECIAL TO THE PRESS
Normally it’s the beauty of the chance encounter with an unknown dog that provides the subject matter for this column. While I’m temporarily unable to get out and about, I’ve made an exception. Standing in for the “unknown” dog here is a dog I know well.
My son Ian and wife MacKenzie had been thinking, in a someday kind of way, about adopting a family dog. MacKenzie pictured some nice, chill black labtype who could flump happily around the place, be a welcome bud to their two teens, Carys and Graham, and also accommodate the established lifestyles of their three cats. Then came the surprise offer of Bruno, a dog very unlike the one they imagined getting.
When he was about 18-months old, Bruno’s beloved owner tragically passed away. His whole world crashed. No family members could keep him. Word was passed around. And the “someday dog” became the McNaughton family’s “right now dog.” That was last August.
When Bruno arrived at their home in semi-rural White Bear Lake, everything, all at once, was new. He was for a while confused about where it was OK to relieve himself. Once, he left a deposit next to the cats’ litterbox. Wrong. But a fair enough guess. Right off, as happens with pets not raised together, Bruno and the cats had issues. In years past, the cats had agreed to live with a dog. But they didn’t agree to like it. It compounded matters that Bruno is a Shetland sheepdog, a.k.a., a Sheltie. He wished desperately to pursue and herd the cats. As for the cats’ response, there’s a frustrating, touch-and-go chapter there that abbreviates to this: Fat chance, mister. Fluff off. Or else.
Physically, for a Sheltie, Bruno is a little offspec. But endearingly so. He’s small for his breed. He has a little snaggle tooth peeking out on one side. But like some of his kind, at a trot, he has a
CHURCH BRIEF
White Bear Lake Mutual Aid Market set
A Mutual Aid Market will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 25, at Parkview United Church of Christ, 3737 Bellaire Ave., White Bear Lake. Shoppers will find art, handmade goods, plants, food, drinks, baked goods, crafts and more for sale along with a silent auction. There will also be food trucks, live music and craft tables at the event. Funds raised will go directly to families in the White Bear Lake area who have been impacted by Operation Metro Surge and will help pay for rent and utilities in the month of May. Donations for the silent auction are still being accepted, and vendors must register by April 18. For more information, contact wblmutualaidmarket@gmail.com.
high-stepping prance that would do a dressage horse proud. At top speed, he’s a rocket. He has acres of mowed space at his disposal. When no one is out playing with him, he’ll simply jet around on his own, full tilt. Running circuits. He also invented a game the family calls “herding leaves,” tracking and chasing them as they fall to the ground or skitter in the driveway. Now and then he’ll convey a few to a pile he’s made by the garage, bringing some kind of Sheltie order to the world. If nothing else. These behaviors seem to be all about the flat-out joys of superior locomotion itself, and really, who knows what else.
Bruno has now graduated from two levels of obedience training and moved on to agility classes for the fun of it. He’s got the makings of a contender. But he’s still got questions. As in, when you’ve crested a big teeter-totter, why would you not take the shortest route to the next obstacle, i.e., bag the down ramp. Just launch! Let me demonstrate.
As for the cat conflict, peace did not arrive swiftly. But eventually, it did, most notably with the big tabby named Rip who, early on, gave Bruno the sternest lessons in observing boundaries. The pair can now be found napping side by side. And lately
they’ve invented a kind of pretend pounce game. No teeth. No claws. No problem. Pal status achieved. One last thing. If I could tell her, I would say to Bruno’s first owner: Rest easy. Your boy is in a good place.
PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES
STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROBATE COURT DIVISION COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-26-292
AND APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS
In re the Estate of Kathleen Marie Gammon, a/k/a Kathleen M. Gammon and Kathy M. Gammon, Decedent TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND CREDITORS:
Notice is hereby given that an application for informal probate of the abovenamed Decedent’s Last Will dated July 9, 2025 has been filed with the Court, and the application has been granted.
Notice is also given that the Probate Registrar has informally appointed the following:
Mary L. Streadwick
960 West Burke Avenue
Roseville, MN 55113 as Personal Representative of the Estate of the Decedent. Any heir, devisee or other interested person may be entitled to appointment as personal representative or may object to the appointment of the Personal Representative. Unless objections are filed pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 524.3607, and the court otherwise orders, the Personal Representative has full power to administer the Estate, including, after 30 days from the date of issuance of letters, the power to sell, encumber, lease or distribute real estate.
Any objections to the probate of the Will, or to the appointment of the personal representative, must be filed with this court, and will be heard by the court after the filing of an appropriate petition and proper notice of hearing.
Notice is also given that, subject to Minn. Stat. § 524.3-801, all creditors having claims against the Estate are required to present the claims to the Personal Representative or to the Court Administrator within four (4) months after the date of this Notice, or the claims will be barred.
Laura J. Stevens, Probate Registrar
Theresa Ames, Court Administrator
Date: March 27, 2026
Attorney for Personal Representative
CADE CORY PEDERSON
Attorney License No.: 403707
Monroe Moxness Berg PA 7760 France Avenue South, Suite 700 Minneapolis MN 55435
Telephone: 952-885-5999
E-Mail: cpederson@mmblawfirm.com
Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on April 8 and 15, 2026.
NOTICE OF REMOTE HEARING ON PETITION FOR FORMAL ADJUDICATION OF INTESTACY, DETERMINATION OF HEIRSHIP, APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS
In re the Estate of: Rosaire Daigle, Decedent. NOTICE is given that on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, from 2:00 p.m until 2:15 p.m. a hearing will be held using remote technology by this Court on the petition for formal adjudication of intestacy, determination of heirship, and for the appointment of Leah Daigle, whose address is 181 Larpenteur Ave E., Maplewood, Minnesota 55117, as personal representative of the Estate of the Decedent in a supervised administration.
Information on how to participate in the remote hearing can be obtained by calling the Court at 651-266-8145.
Any objections to the petition must be filed with the Court prior to or raised at the hearing. If proper and if no objections are filed or raised, the personal representative will be appointed with full power to administer the Estate including the power to collect all assets, to pay all legal debts, claims, taxes and expenses, to sell real and personal property, and to do all necessary acts for the Estate. If objections are filed, another hearing may be scheduled. NOTICE SHALL BE GIVEN by publishing this Notice as provided by law and by mailing a copy of this Notice at least 14 days prior to the hearing date to all interested persons and persons who have filed a demand for notice. Notice is also given that (subject to Minn. Stat. § 524.3-801) all creditors having claims against the Estate are required to present the claims to the personal representative or to the Court Administrator within four months after the date of this Notice or the claims will be barred. BY THE COURT: Theresa Ames, District Court Administrator BY: Elizabeth Girling, Deputy Court Administrator Date: April 1, 2026
Attorney for Petitioner: Spencer Butts (#0392116) 100 Washington Ave. S., Ste. 1700, Minneapolis, MN 55401
Attorney Telephone
An unexpected pairing: adoptee Bruno, left, and new bro Rip, hangin’.
RATE INCREASE NOTICE
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS FOR XCEL ENERGY MINNESOTA CUSTOMERS
Xcel Energy asked the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (MPUC) to approve an increase in natural gas rates beginning Jan. 1, 2026. The requested increase is approximately 8.2% or $63.4 million. On average, the proposed final rate change would increase the monthly bill for a typical residential natural gas customer by 8.7% or $7.11.
The MPUC may either approve, deny, or modify the requested changes, including approving a lesser or greater increase than was requested for any customer class or classes of service.
The MPUC will likely make its decision on our rate request in the fourth quarter of 2026. If final rates are lower than interim (temporary) rates, we will refund customers the difference with interest. If final rates are higher than interim rates, we will not charge customers the difference.
If you move before a refund is issued and we cannot find you, your refund may be treated as abandoned property and sent to the Minnesota Department of Commerce, Unclaimed Property Unit. You can check for unclaimed property at www.missingmoney.com To make sure we can send you any refund owed, please provide a forwarding address when you stop service.
Public Hearings
Administrative Law Judge Kimberly Middendorf will hold six in-person public hearings and two virtual public hearings so that customers have an opportunity to comment on our request. Any Xcel Energy customer or other person may attend or provide comments at the hearings. You are invited to comment on the adequacy and quality of Xcel Energy’s service, the level of rates, or other related matters. You do not need to be represented by an attorney. The hearings will begin at their scheduled time and adjourn after everyone present has had an opportunity to comment or ask questions.
Attend by Internet Connection (Audio and Video)
To join the virtual hearing using a computer, tablet, or smart phone, where you will have audio and video capability, go to: https://minnesota.webex.com. In the gray box where it says, “Enter Meeting Information” type the Event Number below for the public hearing date you are attending:
April 28, 2026 1:30 p.m.
Event Number: 2490 656 2535
Event Password, if needed: XCEL28
Directions for Appearing via WebEx.
May 5, 2026 6:30 p.m.
Event Number: 2489 688 6927
Event Password, if needed: XCEL55
• Log on 5 to 15 minutes before the hearing begins. You will be asked to join the hearing through a WebEx application or through a plug-in for your web browser.
• Enter the Event Number shown in the box above.
• Next, you will be asked to enter your name, your email address, and an event password (if required). After entering this information, click “Join Now” and you will be granted access to the virtual hearing.
• When you enter the hearing, your microphone will be muted. If you would like to ask a question or make a comment during the meeting, use the chat function to send a message to the meeting moderator, who will place you in the queue to comment. When it is your turn to comment, your name will be called and your line will be unmuted. You will then be able to ask questions or make a comment.
To Attend by Telephone (Audio Only)
If you do not have access to a computer, tablet, or smart phone, or if you would prefer to attend the hearing via audio only, you may join using any type of telephone. You do not need internet access to call into the hearing; however, you will only be able to hear (not see) the speakers. You will still be able to comment and ask questions.
Use the information in the box below to dial into the hearing. You will be asked to enter the access code for the hearing, as set forth below:
1-855-282-6330
Access Code: 2490 656 2535
Great River Regional Library Bremer Room 104
20261:30
W St. Germain St. St. Cloud, MN 56301 Monday, May 4, 2026 6:30 p.m. Winona State University Kryzsko Commons Purple Rooms 247 - 249 500 Huff St. Winona, MN 55987
Tuesday, May 5, 2026 1:30 p.m.
Ramsey County Library Community Program Room 2180 Hamline Ave. N. Roseville, MN 55113
Tuesday, May 5, 2026 6:30 p.m. Virtual WebEx (see access details below)
Robert Trail Library
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Virtual Public Hearings
6:00 p.m.
Event password: 923528 from phones
Phone:
1-855-282-6330
from phones
If you would like to ask a question or make a comment during the hearing, press *3 on your telephone. You will then be placed into the queue to comment. When it is your turn to speak, the last few digits of your telephone number will be announced by the moderator and your line will be unmuted, allowing you to be heard.
Public Hearing and Process Information
Administrative Law Judge Kimberly Middendorf will preside over the public hearings and will provide the Commission with findings of fact, conclusions of law, and recommendations after the conclusion of the evidentiary hearing.The purpose of the public hearings is to receive public input on the proposed rate increase. At the public hearings, interested persons have the opportunity to: (1) ask questions of the utility and agency staff; and (2) offer verbal and written comments on the merits of the proposed rate increase. Members of the public may participate without needing to intervene as a party. Representation by legal counsel is permitted but not required.
Please note that the public hearings will end when all attendees have had the opportunity to comment and all other business has been concluded. You are encouraged to join the meeting at the scheduled start time to be placed in the queue to comment. Commenters will be called in the order they enter the queue. Please arrive at the beginning of the hearing to ensure you will have time to comment.
If you do not have access to the internet, you may send or deliver your comment to: Minnesota Public Utilities Commission
121 7th Place East, Ste. 350 St. Paul, MN 55101
Important: Comments can be reviewed by the public on the MPUC’s website, except in limited circumstances consistent with the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act. The MPUC does not edit or delete personally identifying information from comments received.
EVIDENTIARY HEARINGS
Formal evidentiary hearings on Xcel Energy’s proposal will be held on May 11 – 12, 2026 starting at 9:30 a.m. each day. The evidentiary hearings will be held at the Public Utilities Commission, 350 Metro Square Building, 121 Seventh Place East, St. Paul, Minnesota. Individuals who cannot attend in person may attend via via WebEx, a video conferencing platform. Members of the public who wish to attend the hearing through WebEx may request an electronic invitation by contacting MPUC staff Christine Pham at 651201-2249 or christine.pham@state.mn.us
The purpose of the evidentiary hearing is to allow Xcel Energy, the Minnesota Department of Commerce — Division of Energy Resources, the Minnesota Office of Attorney General — Residential Utilities Division, and parties who have formally joined the contested case, to present testimony and to cross-examine each other’s witnesses on the proposed rate increase.
TO LEARN MORE
Xcel Energy’s current and proposed rate schedules are available at:
Xcel Energy
414 Nicollet Mall
Minneapolis MN 55401
Phone 612-330-5500
Web: xcelenergy.com/company/rates_and_regulations/filings
Minnesota Department of Commerce
85 7th Place East, Suite 500 St. Paul, MN 55101
Phone: 651-539-1534
Web: https://efiling.web.commerce.state.mn.us. Under “eDockets” select “Search Documents” insert “25-356” in the Docket #s field, select Search, and the list of documents will appear on the next page. If you have questions about the MPUC’s review process or need assistance in submitting comments, contact the Commission’s Consumer Affairs Office at:
Minnesota Public Utilities Commission
121 7th Place East, Suite 350
St. Paul, MN 55101
Phone: 651-296-0406 or 800-657-3782
Email: consumer.puc@state.mn.us
Anyone with hearing or speech disabilities
Robert Trail Large Meeting Room 14395 S. Robert Trail Rosemount, MN 55068
Bad weather? Find out if a hearing is canceled — call (toll free) 855-731-6208 or 651-201-2213 or visit mn.gov/puc
Public hearings have been scheduled as follows to be held via video conference. April 28, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. and May 5, 2026, at 6:30 p.m.
Written comments may be submitted during the comment period before and after the public hearings. Follow the instructions below to provide written comment.
Please contact Christine Pham at 651-201-2249 or christine.pham@state.mn.us if you have questions on how to participate or have trouble accessing the public hearing using telephone or internet.
WRITTEN COMMENTS TO THE MINNESOTA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION
You can still submit comments even if you do not attend a public hearing.
Comment Period
Comments will be accepted through May 19, 2026.
• Comments must be received by 4:30 p.m. on the close date.
• Comments received after the comment period closes may not be considered for the record.
How to Submit a Written Comment
Written comments can be submitted via: (1) the Commission’s website; (2) electronic mail; (3) U.S. Mail; or (4) fax. To learn how to submit a comment in any of these ways, please visit mn.gov/puc select “Get Involved” from the dropdown menu on the top of the page, then select “Public Comments and How to Participate.” This will take you to the Public Comment page where you will find a list of ways to comment. Be sure to reference MPUC Docket No. 25-356 in the subject line of your comment.
OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME
Pursuant to Chapter 333, Minnesota Statutes; the undersigned, who is or will be conducting or transacting a commercial business in the State of Minnesota under an assumed name, hereby certifies:
1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is:
Concentrix Regulated Services
2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be:
201 E 4TH ST STE 1500
CINCINNATI OH 45202 USA
3. The name and street address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name, including any corporation that may be conducting this business.
Concentrix Healthcare Services LLC
201 E 4TH ST STE 1500
CINCINNATI OH 45202 USA
I certify that I am authorized to sign this certificate and I further certify that I understand that by signing this certificate, I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.
Dated: December 19, 2026
Signed: Hooman Yavi
Published two times in the White Bear Press on April 1 and 8, 2026. OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME
Pursuant to Chapter 333, Minnesota Statutes; the undersigned, who is or will be conducting or transacting a commercial business in the State of Minnesota under an assumed name, hereby certifies:
1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is:
Concentrix
2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be:
201 E 4TH ST STE 1500
CINCINNATI OH 45202 USA
3. The name and street address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name, including any corporation that may be conducting this business.
Concentrix Healthcare Services LLC
201 E 4TH ST STE 1500
CINCINNATI OH 45202 USA
I certify that I am authorized to sign this certificate and I further certify that I understand that by signing this certificate, I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.
Dated: February 13, 2026
Signed: Hooman Yavi
Published two times in the White Bear Press on April 1 and 8, 2026.
OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME
Pursuant to Chapter 333, Minnesota Statutes; the undersigned, who is or will be conducting or transacting a commercial business in the State of Minnesota under an assumed name, hereby certifies:
1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is: Hmong Crafty Fingers
2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be:
2479 GERMAIN ST MAPLEWOOD MN 55109
3. The name and street address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name, including any corporation that may be conducting this business.
Mai S Chang
2479 GERMAIN ST MAPLEWOOD MN 55109
I certify that I am authorized to sign this certificate and I further certify that I understand that by signing this certificate, I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.
Dated: March 26, 2026
Signed: Mai Song Chang
Published two times in the White Bear Press on April 8 and 15, 2026. OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME
Pursuant to Chapter 333, Minnesota Statutes; the undersigned, who is or will be conducting or transacting a commercial business in the State of Minnesota under an assumed name, hereby certifies:
1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is: White Bear Lake Garage Doors
2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be:
3870 VAN DYKE ST WHITE BEAR LAKE MN 55110
3. The name and street address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name, including any corporation that may be conducting this business.
SJ Superior Solutions Incorporated
3870 VAN DYKE ST WHITE BEAR LAKE MN 55110
I certify that I am authorized to sign this certificate and I further certify that I understand that by signing this certificate, I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.
Dated: March 26, 2026
Signed: Shaun Jacobsen
Published two times in the White Bear Press on April 8 and 15, 2026.
OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME
Pursuant to Chapter 333, Minnesota Statutes; the undersigned, who is or will be conducting or transacting a commercial business in the State of Minnesota under an assumed name, hereby certifies:
1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is: Twin Cities Tabletop Games Expo
2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 913 Harriet Ave
Shoreview MN 55126 USA
3. The name and street address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name, including any corporation that may be conducting this business.
Trove Expo Group, LLC
913 Harriet Ave
Shoreview MN 55126 USA
I certify that I am authorized to sign this certificate and I further certify that I understand that by signing this certificate, I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.
Dated: January 4, 2026
Signed: Jeremy Geenen
Published two times in the White Bear Press on April 1 and 8, 2026.
OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME
Pursuant to Chapter 333, Minnesota Statutes; the undersigned, who is or will be conducting or transacting a commercial business in the State of Minnesota under an assumed name, hereby certifies:
1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is: The Brick Alley
2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be:
4639 LAKE AVE WHITE BEAR LAKE MN 55110
3. The name and street address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name, including any corporation that may be conducting this business.
423 Main St. S. LLC
4639 LAKE AVE WHITE BEAR LAKE MN 55110
I certify that I am authorized to sign this certificate and I further certify that I understand that by signing this certificate, I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.
Dated: April 2, 2026
Signed: Perry de Stefano
Published two times in the White Bear Press on April 8 and 15, 2026.
CITY OF DELLWOOD
WASHINGTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA
ORDINANCE 2026-02
AFFIRMING NAME OF DELLWOOD ROAD WITHIN THE CITY OF DELLWOOD AS COUNTY HIGHWAY 96
THE CITY OF DELLWOOD ORDAINS:
Section 1. Street Renamed. In accordance with Minnesota Statutes 440.11, the segment of Washington County State Aid Highway No. 96 lying within the corporate limits of the City of Dellwood is hereby named “County Highway 96” for all purposes.
Section 2. Street Signage. All street signs placed along said segment of the highway shall bear the name “County Highway 96”.
Section 3. Effective Date: This ordinance shall take effect and be in force upon its passage and publication.
PASSED AND ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DELLWOOD THIS 13th DAY OF JANUARY 2026.
APPROVED: Mike McGill, Mayor
ATTEST: Joel Holstad, City Clerk
Published one time in the White Bear Press on April 8, 2026.
CITY OF DELLWOOD
WASHINGTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA
ORDINANCE 2026-03
PROHIBITING THE DISCHARGE OF DANGEROUS WEAPONS
THE CITY OF DELLWOOD ORDAINS:
Section 1. Code
Amended. Section 130.02 of the City Code is hereby renamed from “Discharging Firearms Prohibited” to “Discharging Dangerous Weapons prohibited and subsection A is amended to read as follows:
A. No person shall discharge a firearm as defined in Minnesota Statutes Chapter 624, or an arrow from a bow, or other dangerous weapon in the City of Dellwood.
Section 2. Effective Date: This ordinance shall take effect and be in force upon its passage and publication.
PASSED AND ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DELLWOOD THIS 13th DAY OF JANUARY 2026.
APPROVED: Mike McGill, Mayor
ATTEST: Joel Holstad, City Clerk
Published one time in the White Bear Press on April 8, 2026.
CITY OF DELLWOOD
WASHINGTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA
ORDINANCE 2026-01
AMENDING THE FEE SCHEDULE (SECTION 30.11)
THE CITY OF DELLWOOD ORDAINS:
Section 1. Code Amended. That Section 30.11.F.17 is hereby amended to read as follows: 17. Septic Maintenance Report Fee: $30
Section 2. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall be effective upon passage and publication.
PASSED AND ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DELLWOOD THIS 13th DAY OF JANUARY 2026.
APPROVED: Mike McGill, Mayor
ATTEST: Joel Holstad, City Clerk
Published one time in the White Bear Press on April 8, 2026.
CITY OF GEM LAKE
RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR MS4 REPORT
Notice is hereby given that the City Council of Gem Lake will meet at Heritage Hall, 4200 Otter Lake Road, on the 21st day of April at 7:00 p.m. or soon thereafter as part of the regular City Council meeting to discuss the MS4 Report. The MS4 Report deals with surface water runoff in the City of Gem Lake.
Gretchen Artig-Swomley, Mayor
Published one time in the White Bear Press on April 8, 2026.
CITY OF GEM LAKE
RAMSEY COUNTY MINNESOTA
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS FOR THE GEM LAKE WATER MAIN EXTENSION PHASE
Notice is hereby given that the City Council of Gem Lake will meet at Heritage Hall, 4200 Otter Lake Road, on the 21st day of April, at 7:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as part of the regular City Council meeting as the matter may be heard, to hear, and pass upon all objections, if any, to the proposed special assessments and at such time and place all persons owning property affected by said improvements will be given the opportunity to be heard with reference to said assessment.
Gretchen Artig-Swomley, Mayor
Published one time in the White Bear Press on April 8, 2026.
WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP
NOTICE OF HEARING ON REQUEST FOR A VARIANCE IN THE TOWN OF WHITE BEAR, RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, That the Town Board of the Town of White Bear, Ramsey County, Minnesota, will meet at Heritage Hall, 4200 Otter Lake Road, in said Town on Monday, April 20, 2026, at 7:00 p.m., to consider a Variance to construct a new residential addition with a second story encroaching 0.6 feet or 7.2 inches into the required front yard setback for property at 5767 Lake Avenue (Parcel ID 0230221400137). The full legal description is on file available at the Township and the applicant providing the following legal description as: LOT 2, BLOCK 1, BENSONS ADDITION TO OVER LAKE, RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA. and to hear and pass upon objections and recommendations, if any, and to conduct any and all business incident thereto.
Given under my hand this 30th day of March, 2026. PATRICK CHRISTOPHERSON, Clerk-Treasurer Published one time in the White Bear Press on April 8, 2026.
WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP
NOTICE OF HEARING ON REQUEST FOR A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT IN THE TOWN OF WHITE BEAR, RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, That the Town Board of the Town of White Bear, Ramsey County, Minnesota, will meet at Heritage Hall, 4200 Otter Lake Road, in said Town on Monday, April 20, 2026, at 7:00 p.m., to consider an amendment to an existing Conditional Use Permit to allow Ramsey County Parks and Recreation to rehabilitate natural surface walking trails and add amenities such as concrete bench slabs, benches, and drinking fountains for the Otter Lake – Bald Eagle Regional Park property at 5750 Otter Lake Road (Parcel ID 033022230073). The full legal description is on file available at the Township and the applicant providing the following legal description as: THE WEST 250 FEET OF THE NORTH 300 FEET LYING SOUTHERLY OF THE EAST/WEST QUARTER SECTION LINE IN GOVERNMENT LOT 2, SECTION 3, TOWNSHIP 30, RANGE 22, SUBJECT TO ROAD, IN RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA and to hear and pass upon objections and recommendations, if any, and to conduct any and all business incident thereto.
Given under my hand this 30th day of March, 2026. PATRICK CHRISTOPHERSON, Clerk-Treasurer
Published one time in the White Bear Press on April 8, 2026.
WHITE BEAR LAKE AREA SCHOOLS INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 624 2399 CEDAR AVE WHITE BEAR LAKE, MN 55110
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
Nutrition Services Liquid Dairy Milk Products Bid
The White Bear Lake Area School District is requesting sealed bids for milk products for the 2026-2027 school year. Sealed bids are due to the District Center (2399 Cedar Ave, White Bear Lake, MN 55110) no later than 2:00 PM, Wednesday, April 22nd, 2026.
Bidding documents and specifications will be available on April 1, 2026 at the District Center or by contacting Bridget Lehn at 651-407-7524 or bridget. lehn@isd624.org . This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
Published two times in the White Bear Press on April 1 and 8, 2026.
STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT FILE NO. 62-CV-26-887 CASE TYPE: CIVIL OTHER/MISC. SUMMONS
Melissa A. Martyr-Wagner and Michael Plambeck, as Co-Trustees of the Melissa A. Martyr-Wagner Revocable Trust U/A dated March 19, 2013, Plaintiffs, vs. Claudia A. Mills and Harvey H. Mills, as Trustees of the Harvey H. Mills Revocable Trust Created Under Agreement dated June 20, 2007; Harvey H. Mills and Claudia A. Mills, as Trustees of the Claudia A. Mills Revocable Trust Created Under Agreement dated June 20, 2007; Manitou Island Association, Inc., a Minnesota corporation; John Doe; Mary Roe; all other persons who are deceased; ABC Corporation; and all other persons or entities unknown claiming any right, title, estate, lien or interest in the real estate described in the Summons and Complaint herein, Defendants. THIS SUMMONS IS DIRECTED TO THE ABOVE-NAMED DEFENDANTS. You are hereby summoned and required to serve upon Plaintiffs’ attorney an Answer to the Complaint which is on file in the office of the Court Administrator of the above-named Court, within twenty-one (21) days after service of this Summons upon you, exclusive of the day of service. If you fail to do so, judgment by default will be taken against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint. You must send a copy of your Answer to the person who signed this Summons located at: Redford Law PA, 7201 Ohms Lane, Suite 210, Edina, MN 55439. THIS ACTION AFFECTS REAL PROPERTY located in Ramsey County, Minnesota, legally described as follows:
Those Parts of Lots Fifty-four (54), including so-called boat Lot Fiftyfour (54), and Lot Fifty-nine (59), Map of Manitou Island, White Bear Lake, Minnesota, according to the plat thereof on file and of record in the office of the Register of Deeds of Ramsey County, Minnesota, lying Southeasterly of a straight line extending in a Northeasterly direction from the most Westerly corner of Lot Fifty-three (53) of said Addition, to the low water line of White Bear Lake, and passing through a point in the original Southerly line of Park Avenue North, which point is indicated by an iron marker and is distant 73 feet Northwesterly from the intersection of the Northwesterly line of said Lot Fiftythree (53) with the original Southerly line of Park Avenue North, which point of intersection is indicated by an iron monument.
Also all of Lot Fifty-three (53), including so-called boat Lot Fifty-three (53), of said Map of Manitou Island.
Also all that part of Park Avenue North, and all that part of the road along the Easterly side of said Lot 53 lying between and connecting Park Avenue North and Park Avenue South, lying Northwesterly of the following described line:
Beginning at an iron monument on the Southerly line of said Lot 53, which iron monument is 166.10 feet Easterly along the Southerly line of Lot 53 from the most Westerly corner of said Lot 53; thence Northeasterly along a curve to the left with a radius of 56 feet a chord distance of 66.23 feet to an iron monument; said chord running Northeasterly at an included angle of 143°45’ with said Southerly property line of Lot 53; thence Northeasterly at an included angle of 146°08’ with said chord, through and along the Easterly boundary of so-called boat Lot 53, a distance of 112 feet more or less to the low water line of White Bear Lake.
And Southeasterly of the following described line:
A straight line extending in a Northeasterly direction from the most Westerly corner of Lot 53 of said Map of Manitou Island to the low water line of White Bear Lake, and passing through a point in the original Southerly line of Park Avenue North, which point is indicated by an iron marker and is distant 73 feet Northwesterly from the intersection of the Northwesterly line of said Lot 53, with the original Southerly line of Park Avenue North, which point of intersection is indicated by an iron monument.
(“Subject Property”).
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that the object of said action is to obtain a judgment declaring that Plaintiffs are the owners in fee of the property described above, and that the Defendants, and each of them, have no right, title, estate, interest or lien in or upon the Subject Property.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that no personal claim is made by Plaintiffs against any of the Defendants.
Civil cases are subject to Alternative Dispute Resolution processes as provided in Rule 114 of the General Rules of Practice for the District Courts. Alternative Dispute Resolution includes mediation, arbitration, and other processes set forth in the rules. You may contact the Court Administrator for information about these processes and about resources available in your area.
Dated: February 4, 2026
REDFORD LAW PA /s/ Shaun D. Redford Shaun D. Redford, #390127
7201 Ohms Lane, Suite 210 Edina, MN 55439
(952) 224-3644
shaun@redfordlaw.com
Attorney for Plaintiffs
Published three times in the White Bear Press on April 1, 8, and 15, 2026.
I C E D I
Mark Primeau, owner of Primeau’s Tree Service, is an ISA Certified Arborist with over 45 years experience. Primeau’s Tree Service is a family operated company welcoming large and small jobs, 24 hour emergency service and insurance claims. The company is fully insured and licensed for the greater Metro area.
Hire a highly qualified tree care professional to provide expert removals, pruning, stump grinding and all of your tree care needs. We also offer shrub care and trimming. Call for a free consultation and estimate. Look for Primeau’s weekly ad under “Tree Service”
COUNTY, MINN ESOTA seeks County Assess or to oversee property valuation and staff. Salary $7 8,104$102,814 plus benefits AMA license requ ir ed Apply by April 22, 2026; http://co.penningto n.mn.us.
Press Publications NOW HIRING PartTime Copy Editor Duties in clude proofing content Must ha ve basic know ledg e of AP Style and experience in Journalism. Email: whitebearnews@pr esspubs.com or call 651*/407 *122 7
We are looking for a part-time copy editor
Press Publications NOW HIRING GRAPHIC DESIGNER 6-12 hrs/wk, Entry level po sition, Exp w/inde sign, illustrator, and Photoshop preferred. Send resumes to artmanager@presspubs.com
NOW HIRING! GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Part time 6-12 hours/week Entry level position
Experience with indesign, illustrator and photoshop preferred Main responsibilities include ad design and newspaper layout Send resume to artmanager@presspubs.com
not honor an adjustment request if an error occurs. No specific page or position shall be guaranteed. The Advertiser or Agency shall indemnify the Newspaper for any attorney 's fees incurred in defending against claims, pay any judgments against the Newspaper, and pay associated expenses and losses that are caused by the publication of any advertisement submitted
or published at the
or
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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.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 livin g with parents or legal custod ians; pregnant women and peop le
Mahtomedi Area Educational Foundation hosts Zephyr Gala to celebrate, support local students
The Mahtomedi Area Educational Foundation (MAEF) will host its signature fundraising event, the Zephyr Gala, on Friday, April 10, at JX Venue in Stillwater. This evening will bring together friends and champions of Mahtomedi Public Schools for a celebration of connection, inspiration and impact.
This year’s gala will feature Mahtomedi High School alum Parker Fox (Class of 2017) as the event's emcee. A former basketball team captain, Parker continued his athletic and academic career at Northern State University and the University of Minnesota, where he earned his master’s degree and served as a three-year team cap -
tain for the Gophers.
Now a Big Ten Network analyst, KFAN contributor and host of the “Double Down” podcast, Fox is known for his energy, insight and authenticity. A passionate advocate for mental health and youth athletics, he brings a powerful voice both on and off the court.
In addition to the gala, MAEF is hosting an online auction; bidding runs through April 10. All proceeds directly support MAEF’s mission to enhance educational opportunities for Mahtomedi students.
For more information about the Zephyr Gala or to participate in the online auction, visit bit.ly/ZephyrGala26.
Liberty Classical senior duo combined for 4,225 points
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
Sam Rupnow, after scoring 80 points in three state tournament games, had a final total of 2,343 points for the Liberty Classical basketball team. The 6-foot-4 forward averaged 28.9 points and 7.3 rebounds in his fourth year starting. Ethan Richter was a second high-scoring senior for the Lions. The 6-foot-1 forward totaled 1,891 career points and averaged 20.3 this year, with 51 in the state tournament.
While the two seniors combined for 4,225 points, the Lions had a third 1,000-pointer in junior Cruz Triana, a who averaged 13.7 points this year and has 1,065 points with a year to go.
He had 33 points in the state tournament. “These three have all started for me since they were ninth-graders,” said Coach John Towle. “We’ve gotten better every year they’ve played.”
The Lions had a 97-20 record the last four years. Liberty Classical had a 10-0 record in the Minnesota Classic Athletic Association this season.
Kaiser nabs collegiate national title in racquetball
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
Ava Kaiser, 21-yearold racquetball ace from Lake Elmo, is officially the national collegiate singles champion.
Kaiser, who has earned numerous state, national and world medals since age 8, entered USA Racquetball’s Intercollegiate National Championships for the first time and cruised through all three matches March 26-28 at the University of Minnesota.
“It was an extraordinary experience,” said Kaiser, who’s been ranked No. 1 in Minnesota for all ages since age 14. “It’s an incredible feeling to win my first ever collegiate title.”
The Wisconsin-River Falls junior and Mahtomedi graduate didn’t enter the college tournament during her first two years, due to school obligations and other factors, but this year’s tourney was at home and didn’t require a week-long road trip. She jumped at the chance.
“It was great to be able to sleep in my own bed and be in familiar environment for a big tournament,” Kaiser marveled. “I still went to school on the days I competed.”
Rupnow and Richter are being recruited by numerous Division III teams, Towle said, and have not yet made a decision.
Kaiser beat defending champion Ella Boaz of Missouri 15-3 and 15-7 in the finals on Saturday. Kaiser advanced with wins over Julia Waltz of Baldwin Wallace University 15-0, 15-1 on Thursday and Heidi Snyder
of Brigham Young University 15-1, 15-2 on Friday.
The college tournament is open to anyone who wants to enter.
Each college can send a maximum of six men and six women.
The No. 1’s from each college compete for the overall championship.
Three weeks earlier, Kaiser and partner Jake Wilkins won mixed doubles at the Minnesota Hall of Fame tournament. Next event will be junior nationals in Iowa in June, where she’ll try to qualify for Team USA for the world tournament. She has been on national teams eight times.
Sponsoredby
Kaiser is majoring in biomedical health science with a minor in chemistry. She intends to become a physician assistant and eventually attend medical school.
CONTRIBUTED
Mahtomedi High School alum Parker Fox, right, is the emcee for this years Zephyr Gala on April 10.
BRUCE STRAND | CONTRIBUTED
Ava Kaiser won all six sets in three collegiate nationals matches at the University of Minnesota Recreation and Wellness Center.
PHOTOS BY BRUCE STRAND | CONTRIBUTED Ethan Richter scored 1,891 points.
Sam Rupnow scored 2,343 points.
COMMUNITY BRIEFS
Rotary collecting crutches and more
The White Bear Lake Rotary Club is once again collecting equipment for Crutches 4 Africa. The Rotary is seeking items including crutches, walkers, canes, walking boots, prosthetic legs, wheelchairs, knee scooters, braces, arm slings, baby joggers (not strollers), bicycle trailers and more. The Crutches 4 Africa program repurposes mobility devices for the disabled. Although the items can be a challenge to dispose of in the U.S., they are a lifesaver in developing nations.
The Rotary would like to ship items on June 7. Before that date, items can be dropped off at several locations, including Ramsey County Library White Bear Lake branch, White Bear Lake YMCA, Maplewood YMCA Community Center and MidCountry Bank in White Bear Lake.
During the Rotary’s last collection, they collected 3,700 items, filled a 40-foot container and kept 11,000 pounds of waste out of landfills. For more information about the program, visit http://www.crutches4africa.org.
Plans for 2026 Marketfest now underway
Mark your calendars. Planning is underway for Marketfest, downtown White Bear Lake’s summer festival. The 36th season will run Thursdays, June 18 through July 30, from 6 to 9 p.m. Rain or shine.
The festival features more than 180 vendors each week that offer a wide variety of arts, crafts, merchandise, services and foods. The event also includes live music on two stages, with popular weekly headliners Salsa del Soul, Minty Hippo, American Bootleg, White Bear Big Band, Alex Rossi & the Root City Band and more. There is also summer fun for everyone, with children's games and activities, pony rides and a classic car show.
Sponsorships are available at a variety of levels. New this year, Marketfest is looking for two interns to cover social media for the event during the season. Vendor applications are now being accepted online for vendors in the following categories: food, arts and crafts, services and merchants, farmers market and nonprofits. For additional information, visit www.marketfestwbl.com, or contact Marketfest Director Laura Lewis at info@marketfestwbl. com.
OBITUARIES
LeRoy A. Troske
Age 94 of North Oaks, formerly of White Bear Lake, passed away at home on March 8, 2026.
LeRoy was one of ten children born and raised on a farm in the small town of Turton, SD. He graduated from Turton High School in 1949 and attended two years of college at Northern State Teachers College in Aberdeen, SD.
LeRoy was then on active duty with the U.S. Army from 1952 until 1954, during which time he volunteered to observe nuclear bomb explosions in Desert Rock, NV.
After active duty, he returned to Turton, SD, in 1954 and married his elementary school sweetheart, Beverly Jean LaBrie. He attended the University of South Dakota at Vermillion, earning a degree in business administration and marketing. After
Joan Marie Wallin Macheledt
92, of White Bear Lake. Funeral Service will be at 11 AM on Tuesday, April 14th, 2026 at CHRIST THE KING LUTHERAN CHURCH 1660 Birch Lake Avenue, White Bear Lake, MN. Visitation from 10 – 11 AM prior to the service. Arrangements with Honsa Family Funeral, 651-429-6172.
Bruce Alton Whiting
Born September 23, 1944, in Minot, North Dakota, to Ella (Hauf) and Howard Whiting, passed away on March 25, 2026, in St. Paul, Minnesota. He married Barbara Miller on December 15, 1994, who preceded him in death. Bruce was a dedicated track and field coach in North Dakota and later worked with Minnesota Special Olympics, where he made a lasting impact on many athletes and colleagues.
He is survived by his loving family and many friends, especially within the track and field community. Services will be held at a later date.
graduating college, LeRoy started his 22-year, seven-location career with the General Adjustment Bureau, working his way up from an adjuster in Aberdeen, South Dakota, to a national account executive in New York City. In 1977, he moved back to the Twin Cities and began a 20-year career with The St. Paul Cos., retiring from his duties in 1996 as senior vice president of claims.
LeRoy was a family man, a community man, and a religious man. Throughout his life, he was active in innumerable professional, civic, and religious organizations. LeRoy was preceded in death by his parents, Lucy and Frank Troske, and eight siblings. He is survived by his wife of 72 years, Beverly; eight children and their spouses; twelve grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; brother, Frank Jr; two sisters-in-law; and many nieces and nephews.
A funeral mass will be held Friday, May 15, 2026, 11:00 AM at St . Pius X Catholic Church, 3878 Highland Ave, White Bear Lake, MN. Visitation will take place prior to the service, beginning at 10 a.m. A private interment will be held in Turton, SD, at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Como Park and Conservatory, a longtime family favorite.
Richard Wallace (Dick)Wicklund
Passed away January 3rd, 2026 following hospitalization for a broken hip. He was born January 27, 1934, the youngest of three sons of Arne and Mabel Wicklund. A graduate of Johnson High 1951 and held a degree in Banking from UW. Married in 1961 to Jane Arendt and sharing 60 years until her death in 2022. He is survived by many nieces, nephews and their children as well as other relatives and friends. He was a veteran and worked in the banking industry until his retirement. Active in Rotary he supported many WBL organizations. and pursued a number of hobbies including coin collecting, fishing, flying and family genealogy study. Memorial Service April 10th at 1:30 at Harbor Crossing Community Room: 4650 Centerville Road,WBL preceded by Internment 11:30 at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, 1800 Edgerton St, St Paul. http://honsafamilyfuneral.com/.
Karen Runze Molly Kieger
Birchwood residents select ‘ugly tree’
And we have a winner. Birchwood residents voted for the tree they think is the ugliest within Birchwood Village, one that should be removed.
Zach Michalk, chairperson of the Birchwood Village Parks and Natural Resources Committee, said the idea for the ugly tree contest came about during a parks committee meetings a couple of months ago. Like most cities in the area, Birchwood Village has many dead ash trees that require removal.
“Our committee is allocated a budget from the city, and we thought it would be great if we could use a portion of our budget to fund the removal of a dead tree once or twice a year,” Michalk said. “When it came to picking which tree to remove, we wanted to have input from residents and thus came the idea of having a fun contest to help us decide.”
Birchwood Village received four nominations from residents for three different trees. A large dead ash tree near 20 Birchwood Avenue is the winner. “The tree received the most votes from residents, and we determined it also posed the greatest risk if it were to fall, as it is located near a power pole,” Michalk explained.
City staff will coordinate the removal of the tree along with the other trees slated to be removed. The city plans to continue the contest each year as budget allows. Michalk says he hopes that in future years, there can be more than one ugly tree removed.
Shannon Granholm
LEVY: Meeting location set
FROM PAGE 1
the Dec. 7 budget meeting and March 9 annual meeting.
Residents approved the Heritage Hall location for the purposes of the meeting and for public notice, with the explanation that township staff would carpool to allow more parking on the night of the meeting and explore alternative solutions in the intervening time.
In other news
Ramsey County Commissioner Tara Jebens-Singh was also in attendance at the meeting and briefly addressed the audience. She shared details about a recently passed temporary
tax relief effort that will allow property owners a two-month extension on the first half of 2026 property tax payments. This effort is meant to help Ramsey County residents who have experienced financial hardship due to the activity of Operation Metro Surge.
“It will give a couple months break for folks who might need to catch up,” she said.
She also added that changes from the HR-1 bill at the federal level have had a large impact on local government, which will have an impact on property taxes. She stated that Ramsey County officials are working to mitigate effects of this legislation at the federal and state level.
• Kelly Cadmus, of A Little TLC, has received a massage therapy license for her business located at 4657 White Bear Parkway. Cadmus currently has a massage therapy establishment license for her business at 1310 Highway 96 E, and is moving locations. Massage licenses are not transferable, so a new application was submitted.
• The city’s lease with Young’s Korean BBQ now runs through May 31, 2028. S&Y Foods LLC has operated Young’s Korean BBQ restaurant from the city-owned property at 2125 Fourth Street since 2024. The lease was set to expire this May, but a new agreement has been reached. The business will pay $1,988 a month, which will increase by 3% each year of the lease. The tenant is also responsible for paying utilities.
• Ramsey County Community and Economic Development Director Josh Olson recently visited the council to present a study on the fiscal health of Ramsey County, commissioned by Urban3. Urban3’s analyses found “that smart, informed planning is rewarded with less traffic, lower costs and higher revenues for the city and county, and a more equitable society.” The study uses planning practices in White Bear Lake as a case study for others to model. Highlights included:
MAHTOMEDI SCHOOL BOARD NOTES
• The district’s 2026-27 preliminary budget will be submitted to the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) this spring, and Director of Finance and Operations Tim Erickson made a presentation at the meeting. The current budget surplus of $128,000 contrasts with deficits that occurred for the past two budget years, Erickson said. The projected unassigned fund balance is also at a more healthy 9.2% for 2026-27, he said. That the district is in the black for the first time in three years is due, with enormous thanks, to the voters who approved the operating levy and referendum last November, said Board Chair Kelly Reagan. There is incredible support within the district, Erickson concurred. The board then unanimously (5-0; Director Stacey Stout was absent) approved the budget assumptions for fiscal year 2027.
The board also unanimously approved the planned transfer to reduce the deficit in reserve for operating capital. The administration needed board approval of the revised three-year deficit elimination plan and transfers. In 2024, the district applied for and received approval from MDE to run a deficit in the operating capital reserve through fiscal year 2027. Back in fiscal year 2024, the district updated its smartboard technology for classrooms and received state approval to run reserves for operating capital. The MDE wanted the plan put to paper, for which board approval is required before the transfers can occur. The district will transfer $700,000 at the end of the 2025-26 fiscal year and another $620,000 at the end of the 2026-27 fiscal year to bring the assigned fund balance to the amount shown in the 2026-27 budget. The transfers are necessary because revenues are anticipated to be flat and less than expenses for the next two budget years. Following the transfers, the district is expected to have expenditures and revenues equal to each other for the next two years and beyond, Erickson said.
• After this item was pulled from the consent agenda, the board briefly discussed and unanimously approved the Wold Architects and Engineers agreement of $1.7 million. Erickson said that the district was comfortable with the fee and is receiving a very good rate. The firm has gone above and beyond to help the district, he said.
• Every three years, Dr. Jennifer Reichel, director of teaching and learning, appears before the board to share the achievement and integration (A&I) plan for the next three years and ask for board approval, which she received. Established in state statutes, A&I is a program to support public school districts with state funding to close academic and opportunity gaps. At last MDE count, 171 districts currently participate in the A&I program.
The A&I plan must include goals in three areas:
- Increase racial and economic integration
- Reduce achievement disparities
- Increase access to effective and diverse teachers.
• In his report, Student Representative Matt Studenski said that during Superinten-
- About 50% of Ramsey County is made up of nontaxable pieces of land, largely parks, water features, open spaces and right-of-way.
- Downtown St. Paul is an “important center of productivity” for the county as a whole.
- The study found value growth in the county overall, but a decrease in the downtown area.
- When it comes to White Bear Lake, the average taxable value per acre is $1.4 million and taxable land makes up 70% of the city.
• The city will opt in to receive the greatest flexibility of programming from the Ramsey County Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA). Last March, the council adopted a resolution supporting legislation expanding the Ramsey County HRA to include Economic Development Authority (EDA) powers. With support from cities like White Bear Lake, the county successfully received authority from the Legislature to expand its HRA to include EDA powers. Olson pointed out that that the EDA will not have taxing authority and will only receive and spend funding from the existing Ramsey County HRA levy. Expansion of the HRA to include EDA powers allows the county to utilize a portion of HRA levy funding for purposes of small business support and enhanced business programming. Each city is required to opt
dent‘s Cabinet discussions, the topic centered around course offerings. Studenski said he was glad to see this issue become a priority. Following the Feb. 23 school board meeting, Studenski returned to Student Leadership Council and asked for feedback on the items discussed at the meeting. He said that student leaders were hoping that buses would be returning for spring sports and for schools close to Mahtomedi. He said there was some frustration with transportation not living up to expectations. The girls basketball team had a conflict and had to drive to Orono. Other students said only three places had transportation all season long. Overall, students want the buses to return, he said. Regarding AI, Studenski said students wanted an AI policy that is not one size fits all, but one that safeguards opportunities and encourages responsible use. He closed by asking the board which topics they would like the student body to discuss.
• At each regular board meeting, the district recognizes a member of staff for outstanding contributions to Mahtomedi schools. This month the district recognized Chelsea Paquette, middle school social worker since 2012. Mahtomedi Middle School Principal Jackie Collins described Paquette’s positive impact.
• In her report, Superintendent Barb Duffrin said the district is looking for participants from the work force, higher education or the military to partake in the April 14 AI Dessert & Dialogue from 5-7 p.m. Duffrin said she hoped people would come because she is interested in seeing how it all works.
Nine DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America) students made it to state finals, placing in the top 12 in state; five students finished in the top eight and four students will compete at the International DECA competition. The Mahtomedi Varsity Esports Team won the all-around state championship at the Minnesota Varsity League state finals in St. Cloud on March 13-14. Zephyrs earned first place in Chess and in Minecraft Bedwars. The Mahtomedi Math team, led by Mahtomedi High School math teacher Dave Wald, placed in the top 10 at the state competition held on March 30. The Mahtomedi Boys Hockey team finished third in the Minnesota State Hockey Tournament.
• Upcoming events around the district: - April 2-10: Zephyr Gala Online Auction - April 8: ACT Test Day for grade 11 only with no school for grades nine, 10 and 12. - April 10: Mahtomedi High School Career, Internship and Volunteer event - April 10: at 5 p.m., MAEF Zephyr Gala - April 14: from 5-7 p.m., Dessert & Dialogue AI event
- April 27: at 4:30-5:30 p.m., Coffee & Conversations
The board next meets at 7 p.m. Monday, April 27, in the District Center Community Room, 1520 Mahtomedi Avenue.
Loretta Harding
in, or out, to the enhanced business programming by June 1.
• The 2026 pavement rehabilitation project is moving forward with some changes to the proposed plans. The council is expected to award a contract in April, and construction will likely begin in May. (See the full story in this week’s issue.)
• The city has amended one of its ordinances to amend the city charter as it relates to special elections for City Council vacancies. (See “Special elections: Council will consider changes to city charter,” White Bear Press, March 18, 2026.) Prior to the change, White Bear Lake City Charter Sections 4.04 and 4.12 conflicted with Minnesota statutes because they outlined a timeline for calling a special election that could result in the election occurring on a date not authorized in state statute.
• Kellie Cardinal of Redbird Real Estate LLC has now gathered feedback from neighbors, the Planning Commission and the council on a concept plan for 3772 Hoffman Road. (See the full story in this week’s issue.)
The next City Council meeting will be at 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 14, at City Hall.
Shannon Granholm
WHITE BEAR LAKE CITY COUNCIL NOTES
CONTRIBUTED
A large dead ash tree near 20 Birchwood Avenue is slated to be removed after being named the ugliest tree in Birchwood.
Hoffman Road: Staff, council not sold on concept plan
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
WHITE BEAR LAKE — Community Development Director Jason Lindahl says there appears to be “no clear path forward” for a development concept proposed on Hoffman Road.
Kellie Cardinal of Redbird Real Estate LLC requested a concept plan review for 3772 Hoffman Road. The property is located north of County Road E and south of Cedar Avenue. There was previously a home on the site, but it was donated to the fire department for training purposes in 2025 and demolished.
Cardinal proposed to redevelop the 1.43-acre property into three twin homes with attached two-car garages. The proposal called for the construction of a private road to provide access to the homes with parking for guests on the eastern end of the road. The homes were proposed to be single-level design. Lindahl noted this design is inconsistent with many of the Residential Mix (RX-C) zone standards and would therefore, at a minimum, require rezoning or a planned unit development (PUD).
“It is probably half and half with things that are consistent and things that are inconsistent, but the things that are inconsistent are really very fundamental to the intent of the zoning ordinance to produce development more like the images you see (pictured above),” Lindahl said.
Prior to the city’s rezoning process in 2025, the property was zoned Medium Density Residential (R-6). RX-C is one of the city’s mixed-use zones that include additional site and building design standards. The zone is intended for use along corridors where housing types, including townhouses, and small and large apartment buildings, are mixed in a walkable environment. Ten residents attended the neighborhood meeting. They asked questions about road design, access for emergency vehicles, site drainage and stormwater management, the density of the development and traffic.
A major focus of the Planning Commission discussion was whether the RX-C zoning district was appropriate for the area or if a rezoning
would be appropriate. Several members expressed a desire to keep the area zoned the way it is, and others commented that the applicant should engage in further discussions with city staff on the possibility of a rezoning. Several commission members expressed support for the design of the development but noted that it may not be appropriate for this location. There was no consensus on how the developer should move forward, but the commissioners generally noted that the number of deviations required to construct the project would likely not be supported.
Council feedback
Council Member Andrea West said she thought it was too early to consider rezoning the property. “We changed the zoning the way we did because we had an idea of what type of housing we wanted near the more used roadways. So I think looking at trying to change that is very premature. I think we stay the course,” she said.
Council Member Kevin Edberg questioned whether the zoning committee got the zoning right for the area. “It’s murky. It is probably as good as we could get,” Edberg said. “We have got a really challenging geography to work with, and I don’t have any good answers on that. They are almost all long, narrow (lots) with single-family homes. To put in a multiunit development that has been envisioned would not at all fit the neighborhood.”
Council Member Bill Walsh, who sat on the zoning committee, said perhaps they got it wrong.
“I love this style of housing … This is what I think we need in the city, so I’m inclined to try to make it work,” Walsh said. “I don’t have any problem rezoning. We don’t have to get every piece right the first time. The question would be, what do we rezone (it to), though?”
West asked Lindahl to clarify the timeline and whether Cardinal could construct a single-family home on the property.
“Before the zoning change, the same condition existed as after the zoning update in that singlefamily homes weren’t a permitted use in that zone. So every single-family home that is there is grandfathered in, and that means they can repair, maintain or even replace apple-for-apple kind of development,” Lindahl explained. “Once the use would be discontinued, demolished or removed from the site, they have one year for that grandfathering status. Once we get beyond a year, the city could deny the development or influence it a lot more through the permitting process.”
Lindahl noted that Cardinal had already submitted plans for a single-family home on the property in generally the same location the home was before, and city staff was supportive of the design proposed.
Cardinal explained that she considered canceling the concept plan review in front of the council and moving forward with the singlefamily home, but she wanted to hear the council’s feedback and find out if there was an appetite to rezone the area.
“When I purchased the property, I was simply going to do a remodel, but I was encouraged by the city to do something that had higher density,” Cardinal explained. “I was simply trying to help increase the density; if it is not going to happen with my lot, it’s going to be a huge challenge for any of the lots along Hoffman,” Cardinal said. She added, “I do need to at least build a singlefamily home, but if the intent is to increase the density; this was an opportunity to increase the density. It’s not perfect, but it is going to be very
sad if I see a year from now that now I could have built it with some tweaking.”
Cardinal plans to move forward with replacing the single-family home on the site.
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or whitebearnews@ presspubs.com.
Week of March 29–April 4, 2026 Editor’s note: Visit www.presspubs.com to read the full versions of these most-visited stories
1. White Bear Lake Area School Board adopts consent agenda policy with 6-1 vote. WB Press > News
2. Drive-through coffee shop proposed on Lexington Avenue. Shoreview Press > News
3. Residents ask council to reconsider sidewalks for 2026 project. White Bear Press > News
4. Tight-knit community suffers unimaginable loss. White Bear Press > News
5. Minnesota State Rep. Elliott Engen arrested on suspicion of DUI. White Bear Press > News
The 1.43-acre property is located at 3772 Hoffman Road, north of County Road E and south of Cedar Avenue. The parcel is located in the Residential Mix (RX-C) zone.
The concept plan shows three twin homes with attached two-car garages and the construction of a private rode to provide access.