HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-01 -- Winter-SpringWWW.CORCORANMN.GOV
From the Mayor’s Desk
WINTER/SPRING 2026 | PAGE 1
City of Corcoran
Recycling Contract
The City of Corcoran has
contracted with
Republic Services to
provide recycling services to all residential
properties in the city. Residential single sort
recycling is picked up every other Tuesday.
Recycling is required in the City of Corcoran
and is mandated by Hennepin County. For
additional information regarding residential
recycling in Hennepin County, please visit:
https://www.hennepin.us/recycling.
To set up new residential services, email:
twincitiesresidential@republicservices.com.
For questions, please call 763-972-3335.
Recycling Payment Options
NEW: BEGINNING JANUARY 1, 2026
Republic Services will switch from an
annual billing statement to quarterly
billing statements. All payments for
recycling services should be made
directly to Republic Services. Account
logins can be setup and payments can
be made through Republic Service's
simple and secure Bill Pay portal at:
https://www.republicservices.com/pay-bill.
Payments can also be made over the
telephone to Republic Services using a
credit/debit card at
1-877-692-9729.
The full-size 2026 Recycling Calendar can be
found on page 15.
I hope you had a wonderful holiday season and are having a great start to thenew year! As we turn the page on 2025 and look ahead to 2026, I want to take a moment
to reflect on where we have been -and, just as importantly, where we are
headed as a community.
The past year brought continued growth and progress across Corcoran, along
with meaningful work behind the scenes to ensure our city remains well-
planned, fiscally responsible, and positioned to serve residents both today and
in the years ahead. One very visible milestone is the continued construction at
Heritage Park, where Phase One is well underway and on track with the original
construction schedule, with an anticipated reopening in the late spring/earlysummer. As this new community space opens, we will continue working to addadditional amenities in the near future, while also advancing early planningefforts for other neighborhood and open-space parks. As we enter 2026, one of the most important initiatives underway is our
municipal facilities planning effort. To put it simply, the City has outgrown ourcurrent City Hall, and other important municipal facilities are nearing or overcapacity. We have extended the useful life of the current City Hall as long asreasonably possible, but it no longer meets the operational needs of a growingcity or the service expectations of our residents. In recent years, the City has
carefully considered our space needs, operational requirements, and long-term
options, including a comprehensive study last year with a facility planning
consultant. This has been a deliberate, data-driven process with fiscal
responsibility and thoughtful planning at the forefront throughout.
Equally important, this process includes meaningful public input, and I strongly
encourage residents to participate. Community feedback will help ensure that
our future facilities meet resident needs, support city operations efficiently, and
remain fiscally responsible. I am confident this will result in the best possible
outcome for our community.
Looking further ahead, this summer we will also begin the early stages of
updating our Comprehensive Plan for the 2050 planning cycle. Covering topics
such as land use, zoning, transportation, economic development, and much
more - the comprehensive plan plays an important role in guiding how our city
grows and evolves over the next decade and beyond. One of the first significant
opportunities for residents to give input is planned for Night to Unite in August,
and additional engagement opportunities will follow throughout the multi-year
process. Your participation is not just helpful, it is truly essential to creating a
plan that reflects our community’s shared priorities and values.
I also want to briefly acknowledge the City’s 2026 budget and tax levy. This year,
Corcoran adopted a modest tax rate increase - the first in several years - and I
know that any increase is frustrating and concerning for many residents. This
decision was not made lightly. The 2026 budget includes very limited
discretionary spending, with a very small number of critical staffing additions tomaintain service levels. Much of the increase is driven by factors outside theCity’s control, including rising costs for fire protection services, higher materialcosts for essential services such as road maintenance, and the cumulativeimpact of inflation in recent years. Throughout the budget process, the City
Council and staff worked diligently to reduce the levy where possible, prioritize
core services, and remain focused on long-term fiscal responsibility. At the same
time, I continue to advocate - along with many mayors across Minnesota - for
greater fiscal discipline at the state level, as state budget decisions have very
real impacts on cities, residents, and local businesses.
From the Mayor’s Desk continues on Page 4.
For information and updates, visit the City of Corcoran’s website:
www.corcoranmn.gov
WWW.CORCORANMN.GOV
City Updates
The Corcoran City Council meets on the second and fourth Thursdays of the month at 7 p.m. at City
Hall unless otherwise posted. The following is a recap of a selection of items discussed at meetings
since the last newsletter. A full recap can be found by reviewing the approved City Council minutes at
www.corcoranmn.gov — Our Government > Council > Minutes.
City NewsPage 4
Construction Services/PermitsPage 5
Public WorksPage 6
Public SafetyPages 7-9
Parks and RecreationPage 10
Community
Elections/Environmental
General InformationPage 16
Page 11
WINTER/SPRING 2026 | PAGE 2
Water Supply System Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
On September 25, 2025, City Council hosted a
Work Session Meeting that was held for the
purpose of conducting our Water Supply System
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony. During this time, City
staff, City-elected officials, State-elected officials,
project managers, and contractors had the
opportunity to participate in the ribbon cutting
ceremony and water treatment plant tour.
Dust Control Contract
At the October 23, 2025, City Council Meeting:
Resolution 2025-98 was adopted, awarding a Dust Control Contract to Enviro Tech for
2026 and 2027.
Republic Services Recycling Contract
At the October 23, 2025, City Council Meeting:
A City Recycling Contract with Republic Services was approved, which will go into effect
January 1, 2026. This is a five-year contract that will run through December 31, 2030.
The contractor (Republic Services) will be responsible for billing residents directly for
recycling services and billing will take place on a quarterly basis.
Space Needs Analysis
At the November 13, 2025, City Council Meeting:
BKV Group presented their final report on the City of Corcoran Space Needs Assessment
and Master Planning Study. BKV Group will now begin Phase II of the project, which will
consist of: Public Engagement, Site Design, Communication Plan, and Refined Financial
Plan.
Elm Creek Watershed Commission Alternate Seats
At the November 13, 2025, City Council Meeting:
Jon Bottema was appointed as the City of Corcoran’s First Alternate Commissioner to theElm Creek Watershed Commission and Ryan Bottema was appointed as the City of
Corcoran’s Second Alternate Commissioner to the Elm Creek Watershed Commission.
Recognition
At the December 3, 2025,
Corcoran Staff Holiday Luncheon:Awards were handed out by City
Administrator, Jay Tobin, to an
Employee of the Year
representing each department,with the addition of the
Changemaker Award, which was
awarded for an overall positive
impact on the City.
Karen HeidenAdministration Department Dwight KlingbeilCommunity DevelopmentDepartment
Natalie Davis McKeownChangemaker AwardCommunity Development
Department Darren BohlsenPolice Department Kelsey MeerPublic Works Department
Pages 12-15
Land Use Applications and Final Plats
The Corcoran Planning Commission meets on the first Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. at City Hall unless otherwise posted. The Planning Commission is an advisoryboard and consists of five regular members, and a City Council liaison that is a non-voting member. The Commission holds public hearings, reviews, and then makesrecommendations regarding land use and planning applications to the City Council.
2026 Corcoran Events Calendar
*Meetings are held in person at City Hall or via an online stream. Visit www.corcoranmn.gov for updates.
Subscribe to Future Council Packets
Visit www.corcoranmn.gov/our_government/council/meeting_information and look for the Email Updates box.
From there, you can enter your email address and follow the prompts.
January
19: City Hall Closed - Martin Luther King Jr. Day
February
5: Planning Commission Meeting - 7 P.M.
12: City Council Work Session Meeting - 5:30 P.M.
19: Parks and Trails Commission Meeting - 7 P.M.
26: City Council Meeting - 7 P.M.
16: City Hall Closed - Presidents’ Day
March
5: Planning Commission Meeting - 7 P.M.
12: City Council Work Session Meeting - 5:30 P.M.
19: Parks and Trails Commission Meeting - 7 P.M.
15: Parks and Trails Commission Meeting - 7 P.M.
WWW.CORCORANMN.GOV WINTER/SPRING 2026 | PAGE 3
22: City Council Meeting - 7 P.M.
26: City Council Meeting - 7 P.M.
All Seasons American Service Animals (PID 03-119-23-20-0005) (City File 25-24). Maureen Clipperton requests approval of a site
plan, interim use permit, and a conditional use permit to allow the operation of a Commercial Kennel to train service animals on
her property at 10800 Trail Haven Road. This operation would require the expansion of an existing accessory structure on site,
which would result in a footprint that exceeds the cumulative accessory structure footprint of the property to 3,969 square feet.
This item was reviewed and approved by the City Council during the November 13, 2025, Regular Session.
M&J Creekside Interim Use Permit & Site Plan (PID 08-119-23-23-0017) (City File 25-026). Margaret and John Fernandez
request approval of a site plan and interim use permit to allow the operation of a wine tasting room at 23020 County Road 30.
The operation would consist of wine sales, production, and processing. This item was reviewed by the City Council during the
October 23, 2025, regular session. After some discussion, the Council approved the IUP and Site Plan with the conditions that the
maximum number of guests be limited to 88, the hours of operation be limited to 12pm-9pm Thursday through Saturday, and
12pm-6pm on Sundays, and additional screening to be provided along the northwest and south sides of the parking lot.
Phil’s Quality Auto Site Plan & Variance (PID 26-119-23-11-0029) (City File 25-030). Phil’s Quality Auto request approval of a Site
Plan and Variance to allow the expansion of their parking lot within the minimum front yard setback area at 7590 Commerce
Street. This item was reviewed and approved by the City Council during the November 25, 2025, meeting.
Schmids Hidden Valley 3rd Addition (PID 04-119-23-42-0006) (City File 25-034). Michael & Judith Ball request approval of a
preliminary plat for a three-lot subdivision at 21900 Oakdale Drive. This item was reviewed by the City Council during the
November 25, 2025, meeting. After some discussion, the Council approved the preliminary plat with the condition that a public
roadway be installed to serve the new driveways rather than a shared private driveway.
Brandsted Garage CUP (PID 27-119-23-43-0003) (City File 25-036). Josh and Kelsey Brandsted request approval of a Conditional
Use Permit to allow the construction of an accessory building that would contain sidewalls that exceed the maximum sidewall
height of 10-feet and would result in the property’s cumulative accessory structure footprint to exceed 3,969 square feet This
item was reviewed and approved by the City Council during the November 25, 2025 meeting.
Lano Equipment Concept Plan (PID 31-119-23-34-0007) (City File 25-037). Lano Equipment submitted a concept plan for Council
review and feedback of a potential redevelopment of their site located at 23580 State Highway 55. The City Council provided
informal feedback to the applicant during the November 13, 2025, City Council meeting.
Cook Lake Highlands PUD Amendment (PID 25-119-23-14-0026) (City File 25-039). Amira Investments LLC request approval of a
PUD amendment to allow an increase of impervious surface of the site at 7330 Brockton Lane, from 39.8% to 40.2%. This item
was reviewed by the Council during the October 23, 2025, Regular Session. After some discussion, the Council approved this
application 5:0.
12: City Council Meeting - 7 P.M.12: City Council Meeting - 7 P.M.
WWW.CORCORANMN.GOV
City of Corcoran Website
The City of Corcoran will soon be updating the City website. These changes
will enhance and streamline your website experience and navigation, and we
cannot wait to debut it later this year!
Your City website experience will
remain the same for now, as staff and
the website developer, Revize, work behind the scenes to create a brand
new website for you to explore. Until then, keep an eye on our social media
pages for any updates and an official launch date!
Expected Launch Date: Summer 2026
City News
WINTER/SPRING 2026 | PAGE 4
Sidewalk Snow Removal Reminder
Neighborhood Park Seeding
The City is discussing a Master Park System Plan, which will help guide howcurrent and future parkland fits into the overall park system.
At the neighborhood park located by 102nd Place/102nd Avenue, residents
may have noticed recent grading activity on the designated neighborhoodpark site. This work is in preparation for future development. The land will be
interim seeded with two
different types of seed, within
sectioned areas, and is
anticipated to have established
vegetation in late summer 2026.
This development will be interim
until long-term park plans are
developed, which will include
public engagement as part of the
planning process.
During the interim period,
standard park rules will still
apply, including keeping pets
on a 6' leash and picking up
after pets.
Take care,
Tom McKee
Mayor
City of Corcoran
As Corcoran continues to grow, the City Council
and I also remain deeply committed to honoring
and preserving our agricultural roots. Corcoran is
proud to be home to two of the few remaining
operational dairy farms in Hennepin County - a
nice reminder of our community’s history and
character. Maintaining a connection to our
agricultural heritage remains an important value
that we strive to balance thoughtfully with future
development.
As always, I encourage you to read through the rest
of this newsletter for additional updates,
community events, and other important
information. For more frequent updates, make
sure to follow the City on social media and visit the
City website. I am excited and optimistic for what
2026 has in store for our community, and I remain
grateful for the thoughtful engagement of our
residents. As always, if you have any questions,
concerns, or ideas you would like to share, please
do not hesitate to reach out to me directly. I would
love to hear from you!
From the Mayor’s Desk Continued
As winter weather arrives, the City would like to
remind homeowners of their responsibility to keep
public sidewalks safe and accessible for everyone.
City Code requires that all snow and ice be removed
from public sidewalks within 24 hours after snowfall
has ended. Prompt snow removal helps ensure safe
passage for pedestrians, including children,
neighbors with mobility challenges, and emergency
responders.
Snow and ice may not be deposited or stored in the
public right-of-way, including sidewalks, streets, or
boulevards. Please place shoveled snow on your
lawn or other approved areas on your property.
If snow and ice are not cleared within the required
timeframe, the City (or a City contractor) may
remove it. In these cases, the property owner will be
responsible for the cost of removal.
Thank you for doing
your part to help
keep our
community safe
and walkable
throughout the
winter season. Your
cooperation is
greatly appreciated!
Corcoran Civic Campus Public Engagement
Please see the schedule below and join us in the coming months for our
public engagement opportunities regarding the Corcoran Civic Campus.
For more information on the ongoing Space Needs Assessment, visit
www.corcoranmn.gov – Our Community > Space Needs Assessment.
(Continued from Page 1)
Construction Services
Reroof or Reside
$91/ea
Windows/Doors
(same opening)
$91
Furnace or A/C Unit Replacement
$76/unit
Gas Fireplace
$76
General Plumbing
$51+
Water Heater or Water Softener
$36/unit
*Fees include $1 State Surcharge.
WWW.CORCORANMN.GOV
Planning to finish your basement or remodel your home?Many projects require a building permit to ensure the work
is safe, code-compliant, and properly inspected. Below is ahelpful overview for homeowners starting a basement orinterior remodeling project.
When a Building Permit Is Required
A building permit is needed when your project includes:
Most Requested
Permit Fees
Homeowner’s Guide to Basement Finishes & InteriorRemodeling Projects
The City of Corcoran requires all
building permits to be submitted
online making interactions more
efficient and convenient. Through
the online permit portal, residents
and contractors can apply for
building, plumbing, mechanical,
land disturbance and utility
permits, check permit status and
inspection results, and make
electronic payments anytime!
The online permit portal requires a
one-time account registration for
all homeowners and contractors
applying for a permit. A step-by-
step guide is available online to
help with account registration and
the online permitting process. To
begin the registration process
and/or apply for a permit visit
www.corcoranmn.gov – Building
Permits.
Several permit checklists and
additional permit information and
resources are available online
under the Construction Services &
Inspections web pages to help with
your project. Visit
www.corcoranmn.gov – Public
Services > Construction Services &
Inspections.
Online Building
Permit Submittal
WINTER/SPRING 2026 | PAGE 5
• Building, moving, or altering interior walls
• Installing drywall on walls or ceilings• Changing the use of a room (e.g., converting a rec room into a bedroom)• Finishing any previously unfinished space
Basement finish and remodeling permits issued include building, plumbing, and mechanical(HVAC) fees. Electrical work requires a separate permit from the Minnesota Department of Labor
and Industry.
Plan Review & Inspections
All permit applications undergo a plan review before construction begins to identify potentialissues early. During construction, city inspections confirm:
• Compliance with the Minnesota State Building Code and City Code• Proper installation of materials and systems
Inspections do not guarantee the work but help ensure a safe, successful project.
Why Pull a Permit?
• Ensures work meets safety and building code standards
• Protects your home’s value and your investment• Prevents costly rework—unpermitted work may need to be opened or removed
If You Are Acting as Your Own General Contractor
• The permit issued is all-inclusive for building,
plumbing, and mechanical work• Electrical must be obtained separately
• Homeowners may complete work in their owndwelling
• Homeowners performing their own plumbing mustoccupy the home
Plan RequirementsPlans must be drawn to scale and include:
• Existing and proposed floor plan showing layout with
overall dimensions• Dimensions and designation of each room
• Proposed and existing walls, finished ceiling height, and window, door sizes and locations • Walls to be removed or altered, including beams and headers (load bearing walls may require
engineering)
Approved plans and the permit card must be available on-site.
To apply for a permit or view additional specific permit type guidance and handouts visitwww.corcoranmn.gov – Public Services > Construction Services & Inspections. To schedule an
inspection or for building code-related questions contact the city's contracted Building Official,Metro West Inspection Services at 763-479-1720. Questions? Contact permits@corcoranmn.gov.
Permit Totals: 1,206 Permits Issued In 2025
Residential New Construction
Commercial New Construction
Deck/Porch
Alteration/Remodel
Plumbing
Mechanical
2024
346
9
124
78
244
109
2025
325
3
114
107
300
124
Other Construction
Permits Issued
Land Disturbance
Utility/ROW
2024
15
176
2025
16
72
WWW.CORCORANMN.GOV FALL/WINTER 2025 | PAGE 1
Public Works
WWW.CORCORANMN.GOV
Snow and Ice
Control Operations
The goal of the Corcoran Public Works
Department is to clear snow and ice from
city roads as soon as possible. Delays may
occur in the event of equipment breakdown
or extreme weather conditions. The safety
of the public and the City employees is a
top priority.
Currently the City has over 70 miles of roads and more than 100 cul-de-sacs that
are maintained by the Public Works Department. The criteria for the decision to
begin snow and/or ice control operations are as follows:
• Snow accumulation of two inches or more warrants the plowing of asphalt
roads, two to four inches warrants the plowing of both asphalt and gravel roads
dependent on road conditions. Call out is normally at 2 a.m. when practical.
• High volume major collector roads and roads with steep hills and curves receive
first priority.
• Safety of the plow operators and the public are important. Therefore
snowplowing operations may be terminated after 12 – 14 hours to allow
personnel adequate time to rest. High winds creating white out conditions could
cause suspension of services until weather improves.
The City will assume no responsibility for damage to underground lawn sprinkling
systems, exterior lighting systems, and similar landscaping installed in the public
right-of-way. To review the City approved policy visit www.corcoranmn.gov —
Public Services > Public Works > Snow Plowing.
Parking Regulations
As a reminder, according to Corcoran City Municipal Code Chapter 71.01:
A. No person shall park a motor vehicle on any public street within the city
between the months of November 1 and April 1, between the hours of 1 A.M. to
7 A.M. Penalty, see ' 10.99
B. No parking on any city street shall be allowed at any times if snowfall is 2” or
greater. This will be in effect until such roads are plowed and snow has been
removed from such roads.
C. No vehicle of 10,000 gross weight or greater shall park on any city street unless
authorized by the Police Chief or Public Works Director.
Mailbox ABC’s
Helpful hints to protect your mailbox from the snowplow
A. Front of mailbox should beflush with the back of the curb.
B. Bottom of mailbox should be
42-45 inches to top of the street.
C. Newspaper boxes and othercontainers should be set back a
minimum of 6 inches from the
back of the curb.
Mailbox shown is at
CORRECT height.
Snowplow blade
CLEARS the mailbox.
Mailbox shown isBELOW THE CORRECT
height.
Snowplow blade HITS
the mailbox.
WINTER/SPRING 2026 | PAGE 6
Swing-Away Mailbox
Posts are designed to
reduce or eliminate
damages to mail
receptacles during
inclement weather. The
swing-away posts are
constructed of galvanized
steel and are designed to
meet the Postal
regulations and the
Minnesota Department
of Transportation’s
specifications.
Garbage/Recycling Container
Driveway Location
As a reminder, during winter months, please be
sure to place garbage/recycling containers inside
your driveway perimeter or boundary on
garbage/recycling pickup days. Containers should
never be placed on the roadway as they are a
traffic hazard and an obstacle to the effective
and safe removal of snow and ice in the winter.
Swing-Away Mailbox
Post Option
Swing-Away Mailbox Posts are available to
purchase for $100 for the individual product or
installed by Corcoran Public Works for $165.
Monday—Wednesday
7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Thursday
7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Friday8 a.m. to noon
Please be advised that the
Administrative Office phone line is
not monitored 24/7. Staff are
available to answer calls during
regular business hours. For police services after hours, onevenings or weekends, pleasecontact the Hennepin CountySheriff's Office (HCSO) non-emergency dispatch at:952-258-5321
For emergencies requiring
immediate police assistance,
always call: 9-1-1
Thank you for your cooperation.
WWW.CORCORANMN.GOV
Corcoran Firearms Safety
classes are scheduled for
March 15, 22, and 29, and
April 12 and 19, from
6 p.m.—9 p.m., at Hope
Community Church. The class
will conclude with a Firearms
Safety Field Day on April 25
Public Safety
Its mission is to support a safe, adventurousand friendly snowmobiling experience
primarily through trail coordination, safety
education, and club activities of value to
members.
You can also view the most up-to-date
Northwest Trails Map by clicking below:
https://www.nwtrails.net/map.htm
Northwest Trails Association
Contact Information
For further questions, call Randy at
763-420-5526 or e-mail at:
youthsafetytraining@gmail.com
For additional class information, or foradditional information on safety classes,
safety tips, and trail maps, as well as general
snowmobiling information and regulations,
visit the Minnesota Department of Natural
Resources at the following link:https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/snowmobiling
/index.html
Corcoran Police
Administrative Office
Phone: 763-420-8966
(Only to be used during office hours)
The City of Corcoran contracts with
the West Suburban Fire District(Formerly Loretto), the Rogers FireDepartment, and the Hanover Fire
Department for fire protectionservices for Corcoran residents. Toview the Corcoran map that includes
fire department boundaries visitwww.corcoranmn.gov — PublicServices > Fire > Fire Protection
Services.
Winter Reminders Snowmobile Safety
and Training
The Northwest TrailsAssociation is an
organization of
enthusiastic andcommitted snowmobilers
in Hennepin County and
the northwest suburbs ofMinneapolis, MN.
Sponsored by the Northwest Trail Association
Office Hours
Fire Department
Information
WINTER/SPRING 2026 | PAGE 7
Parking Regulations
Parking is prohibited on any
public street between the
hours of 1 a.m. and 7 a.m.
from November 1 to April 1
and if snowfall is two inches
or greater. This will be in
effect until such roads are plowed and snow
has stopped accumulating and has been
removed from such roads. No vehicle of 10,000lbs. gross weight or greater shall park on any
city street unless authorized by the Director of
Public Safety or Public Works Director.
Fire Hydrant
Clearing
The City is requesting
your help in keeping fire
hydrants accessible.
Snow shoveled or piled
Plowing Snow
Onto Roads
Minnesota State Statute
(169.42) prohibitsrelocating snow and ice
from private property
(including driveways and
parking lots) to a roadway, sidewalk, or
adjacent property. Moving show and ice onto a
sidewalk or into or across a roadway is
unlawful.
close to hydrants restricts operation during a
fire emergency. Please clear a three-foot circle
around the hydrant near your home to assure
easy access for the fire department.
Firearms Safety Training
from 8 a.m.—2 p.m., at Corcoran City Hall.Youth ages 11 and older can attend a firearms
safety certification course and receive their
certification. The Firearms Safety Certificatebecomes valid at age 12.
For updated information on registration dates,
and location(s) visit www.corcoranmn.gov —Public Services > Police > Training and Safety >
Youth Firearm Safety Training or contact the
Corcoran Police Administrative Office at763-420-8966. Registration will open early
February 2026.
Students must be 12 years old beforeNovember 1, 2026 to be eligible to take
the class.
The Corcoran Police andPublic Works Departments
will host the 18 Annual
Truck Safety Seminar at the
Corcoran Public Worksfacility February 26, 2026.
The seminar will run from
th
8 a.m.—Noon, and will
Truck Safety Seminar
cover a multitude of items such as the new
commercial vehicle laws for 2026, rules and
regulations, vehicle equipment
requirements, and much more. Coffee,
rolls, and lunch are provided by donations
from sponsors.
For more information on
this free seminar and/or
registration date(s) visit
www.corcoranmn.gov —
Public Services > Police > Training and
Safety > Truck Safety Seminar. To be placed
on the email list for seminar information
contact the Corcoran Police Administrative
Office at 763-420- 8966,
afadden@corcoranmn.gov or
jheinecke@corcoranmn.gov.
WWW.CORCORANMN.GOV
Public Safety
WINTER/SPRING 2026 | PAGE 8
Connect with Corcoran’s
Finest – Coffee,
Conversation, and
Community.
Join the Corcoran Police
Department for a relaxed
and friendly meet-and-greet
held on the first Tuesday of
every month.
Officers will be visiting local
restaurants and community
spaces to connect with
residents—no speeches, no
agendas, just a chance to
talk, ask questions, share
concerns, or simply get to
know the men and women
who serve our community.
Coffee With A Cop
Enjoy some coffee, engage in meaningful conversation, and take
part in a few fun giveaways while you are there.
To view our upcoming schedule, see the graphic below or visit
www.corcoranmn.gov – Public Services > Police > Coffee With A
Cop. Please note: dates, times, and locations are subject to
change. Please keep an eye on the City website
(www.corcoranmn.gov), City Facebook page
(facebook.com/CorcoranMN), and the Corcoran Police
Department Facebook page (facebook.com/CorcoranPDMN)
for updates.
We look forward to seeing you!
Winter Fire Prevention Tips
Images Courtesy Of: FEMA and U.S. Fire Administration
WWW.CORCORANMN.GOV
Public Safety
Open Burning in Corcoran – Know the Rules Before You Burn
The City of Corcoran’s Open Burning Ordinance (86.01) allows for
residential and agricultural open burning under specific conditions.
Please take a moment to review the guidelines to ensure safe and
legal burning practices.
Recreational Fires
Most residential properties may have a recreational fire up to
3’ x 3’ x 3’ in their backyard. These fires must be:
• Surrounded by non-combustible, non-smoke, and
non-odor-producing material
• Used only for recreational purposes (e.g., campfires)
If you live in a neighborhood governed by a Homeowners Association
(HOA), please check with your HOA for any additional fire
restrictions.
Open Burning Permits
Burn permits are not needed when there is three inches of snow or
more on the ground around your pile. Follow all Minnesota
Department of Natural Resources burn regulations when burning.
Additionally, please be sure to watch the wind conditions to ensure
you have tools available to ensure the fire does not get out of control.
Residents and farm properties that wish to conduct open burning
beyond recreational fires must obtain a burn permit:
• Online at www.corcoranmn.gov – Public Services > Police >
Burning Permits, Regulations, and Guidelines or in person at the
Corcoran Police Department during business hours
• Required before burning — failure to obtain a permit may result in
criminal violations
Not Allowed
• Burning by or for businesses or commercial purposes • Bringing in materials from outside the city to burn within Corcoran
What Can Be Burned (Per Ordinance 86.04)
• Brush • Diseased trees (generated on-site)
• Clean, untreated wood
• Vegetative matter when chipping, composting, or other disposal
methods are not practical
For a complete list of approved materials and additional regulations,
please refer to City Ordinance 86.04 in the City of Corcoran
Municipal Code, found at www.corcoranmn.gov – Our Government >
City Code > Municipal Code with Adopted Ordinances and
Amendments.
Let us all work together to keep Corcoran safe and fire-responsible!
Open Burning Permits
WINTER/SPRING 2026 | PAGE 9
Tuesday, December 12, 2025, City of Corcoran staff, local public
safety partners, and residents braved cold and snowy weather
to bring holiday cheer to families in need during the 2025
Holiday Toy and Food Drive.
2025 Holiday Toy and
Food Drive Recap
Our caravan, which included vehicles from the Minnesota
Department of Natural Resources, Hennepin County Sheriff’s
Office, Rogers Fire Department, Hanover Fire Department,
and West Suburban Fire District, made its way through nine
neighborhoods, collecting donations along the route. Thanks
to the generosity of the community, the drive collected
2,030 lb of food, 594 lb of toys, and over $2,400 in monetary
contributions. These donations will support Cross Services
and Toys for Tots, helping local families enjoy a brighter
holiday season.
It was a fun-filled, festive evening that highlighted the spirit of
giving and the strong sense of community in Corcoran. A huge
thank you to everyone who donated and joined in the drive!
WWW.CORCORANMN.GOV
Parks and Recreation
Corcoran Skating Rinks
Heritage Park Remaster: Progress Update
WINTER/SPRING 2026 | PAGE 10
Corcoran's skating rinks offer fun and recreation for cold weather enthusiasts of all ages.
Building and maintaining the rinks depends on many variables. To start making ice, crewsneed temperatures to be around 0°F to –10°F for about one week and frozen ground
approximately four inches deep. The crew then establish a six-inch base, which will help
rinks survive most warm snaps. The final step is to build a smooth “finish surface” on the
ice. Corcoran ice rinks are planning to be opened for the season in early January, andweather permitting, will remain open until late February. Depending on weather
conditions, the Public Works crew generally cleans and resurfaces the rinks daily between 7
a.m. – 3 p.m. (roads and public safety are first priorities). If you see the Public Works crew
at the rinks, please vacate the rinks and allow them the time and space to complete thecleaning and resurfacing. Inclement weather and lack of staffing can cause the rinks and/or
the warming house to be temporarily closed and will be posted on the weather line
(763-400-7025). Those interested in utilizing the rinks are encouraged to call the weather
line prior to going to the rinks.
Exciting progress is underway at Heritage Park as part of the remaster project! The park
building is starting to take shape, with walls up and trusses being installed. Parking lot and
trail paving has been completed, with a final wear course for the parking lot planned for
spring. Partial playground installation is underway, and concrete sidewalks around the
playground container are mostly finished, with a small section left open for machinery
access. Grading and stormwater pond work has also been completed, and seeded areas will
continue to grow in 2026.
Please note that the western parcel of the park is still under construction. Visitors are asked
to avoid this area until further notice.
Stay tuned for more updates as the transformation continues!
It is time to start thinking about spring baseball! Registration will be available for t-ball (4-5
years old), coach pitch (6-7 years old), and machine pitch (8-10 years old). Registration willopen on Monday, January 12, 2026, at 8 a.m. and will remain open through Sunday, March
1, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. (or until filled). Registration can be completed online on our website
by clicking on the appropriate league option from the left-hand column of the webpage atwww.corcoranmn.gov – Public Services > Parks and Recreation. The seasons run from late
April through mid-June. Registration for machine pitch includes the opportunity to
participate in the season jamboree against other teams in the league!
Volunteer coaches are needed – if interested, be sure to indicate that on your child’s
registration! Volunteer coaches receive one registration refund per team coached at theend of the season.
Participants are expected to bring their own baseball glove and highly encouraged to bringtheir own bat and helmet.
Baseball Registration – Open SOON!
We are excited to share that youth soccer is anticipated to return in 2026 at Heritage Park!
Thank you to our families for your patience and understanding during the 2025
construction pause. As part of the project, several fields were re-graded to improve long-term playability. While the grass will need the 2026 season to establish, these
improvements will support much better field conditions in 2027 and beyond. With some
areas needing to rest in 2026, the spot availability may be slightly limited compared toprevious years.
Corcoran residents receive priority registration beginning Monday, April 6, 2026, at 8 a.m.through Monday, April 13, 2026, at 7:59 a.m. During this window, residents can register
using the password “Kick” to begin the process. Non-residents that register during this
window will be unregistered and asked to re-register during open registration. Registrationwill open Monday, April 13, 2026, at 8 a.m. and will remain open through Monday, May 25,
2026, at 11:59 p.m. (or until filled) on the City’s website.
The season will run on Tuesdays and Thursdays from early July through August. Volunteer
coaches are needed as part of the program – if interested, please be sure to indicate that
on your child’s registration. Volunteer coaches receive one registration refund at the end ofthe season upon equipment return.
Participants should come prepared with shin guards, socks that cover the shin guards, and alabeled warm-up soccer ball (U6/U8: Size 3; U10/U12: Size 4).
Summer Soccer Is Coming Back!
WWW.CORCORANMN.GOV
The North Hennepin Pioneer Society would also like to welcome all
who are interested in preserving history to give them a call and attend
a meeting. Winter meetings will start Saturday, February 21, 2026, at
9:30 a.m. at Immanuel United Methodist Church, 10025 Brockton Lane,
in Corcoran.
For more information on attending a meeting or becoming a member,
please contact:
Bonnie M. at: 763-639-1438
Dale P. at: 763-458-9880
Email: CorcoranSchool1894@gmail.com
Yearly Membership:
$15 per person
$25 per couple.
Community
North Hennepin Pioneer Society Community Events
All events held at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church
20000 County Road 10
Corcoran, MN 55340
WINTER/SPRING 2026 | PAGE 11
Northwest Area Jaycees
St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church Events
Fish Fry
Friday, March 20, 2026
More details and information are forthcoming. Visit
www.churchofstthomas.org for updates!
Ham Bingo
Sunday, March 29, 2026
The NW Area Jaycees host an annual Easter Egg Hunt
in the City of Corcoran. This is a free event and is
geared toward children aged 0–10 years and features
age-appropriate treats in each category. The event is
held outdoors, rain, snow, or shine, please dress
appropriately.
Participants are encouraged to bring baskets to gather
up the goodies and turn in any prize eggs found for
larger gifts! The Easter Bunny will also be on hand for
photo opportunities with the kids, so do not forget to
bring your cameras!
You can follow the NW Area Jaycees Facebook page at
the link below for more event information,
announcements, and any location/weather updates.
www.facebook.com/nwareajaycees.
NW Area Jaycees Easter Egg Hunt
Saturday, April 4, 2026
10 A.M. (recommend early arrival)
Surrounded by cornfields and farms, the little
1894 one-room school really shines after
exterior repairs completed in 2025. Step back
in time and join the North Hennepin Pioneer
Society once again when they open in May
2026. Call for an appointment to visit. Plus,
mark your calendars for August 9, 2026, to
attend the annual fun-filled family event and
fundraiser, Summerfest!
The Society is continuously seeking
historical documents of Corcoran,
photographs or items you may have for
donation or to copy. They are also seeking
voluntary help for the grounds upkeep, building maintenance labor,
and monetary donations to help with the expenses. The school is open
from May to October for schools to visit and tours by appointment. If
you know of a school class that would like a field trip to the one-room
school, please call or email the North Hennepin Pioneer Society. NHPS
is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
Corcoran Lions Scholarship Program
The Corcoran Lions are excited to offer our 38 annual scholarship program. Each year it is a great opportunity to
be able to help our youth with the opportunity to further their education. As in years past, the basic rules remain
the same and they are as indicated below. The scholarship applications deadline date is April 15, 2026. Award
Ceremony will be held on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at a location to be determined at a later date.
th
The Corcoran Lions Club awards scholarships to graduating seniors who live in the City of Corcoran.
This year the Lion’s will have a Community Service Scholarship. This scholarship will be given to the person who has volunteered in our
Corcoran Community.
The scholarships are based on academic, leadership, service to community, and a need basis. The graduate must attend a college,
junior college, university, or a trade or vocational school, in the year directly following graduation, to receive the award. The
applications deadline is April 15, 2026 along with a transcript of their grades.
Applications can be found on the Corcoran Lions website at www.corcoranlions.org or at the
following high school offices: Buffalo, Delano, Maple Grove, Mayer Lutheran, Osseo, Rockford,
Wayzata, Providence Academy, and West Lutheran High School. If a student attends a highschool outside of the area or has been homeschooled and still resides in the City of Corcoran,
you are still eligible for a Scholarship. Please contact Lion Jerry Cain, Chairman of the
Scholarship Committee, by email if you need an application: jerryjcain@gmail.com.
The Corcoran Lions Club is a service organization that helps build communities through
events, donations, and assistance. The Lions Club makes donations to many organizations inour communities, which include the police, fire, and City Hall. Their goal is to encourage new
memberships and promote events held at the Corcoran Lions Park in 2026. Lions Members
are looking forward to hosting events at the Corcoran Lions Park this summer.
WWW.CORCORANMN.GOV
Elections 2026
Polling Locations:
Precinct 1:
St. Thomas the Apostle Church
20000 County Road 10
Corcoran, MN 55340
Precinct 2:
Hope Community Church
19951 Oswald Farm Road
Corcoran, MN 55374
Precinct 3:
Corcoran City Hall
8200 County Rd. 116
Corcoran, MN 55340
*To find your polling location, visit
https://pollfinder.sos.state.mn.us/.
WINTER/SPRING 2026 | PAGE 12
Precinct Caucus - February 3, 2026
Caucus locations will be set by the parties. The Secretary of State will share party caucus
locations via the Caucus Finder starting January 14, 2026. For more information, visit:
https://www.sos.mn.gov/elections-voting/how-elections-work/precinct-caucuses/
Primary Election Dates
Jun 26: Absentee voting begins
Aug 8: City Hall open from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. for in-person absentee voting
Aug 10: City Hall open until 5 p.m. for in-person absentee voting
Aug 11: Primary Election Day – Polls open 7 a.m. – 8 p.m.
General Election
Sept 18: Absentee voting begins
Oct 31: City Hall open from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. for in-person absentee voting
Nov 1: City Hall open from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. for in-person absentee voting
Nov 2: City Hall open until 5 p.m. for in-person voting
Nov 3: General Election Day – Polls open 7 a.m. – 8 p.m.
For more information on elections, contact Deb Johnson, City Clerk, via email at
dkjohnson@corcoranmn.gov or 763-338-9291 or visit sos.state.mn.us/elections-voting/.
WWW.CORCORANMN.GOV
Chloride Consultations
Be a good environmental steward: Reduce salt use in your community
As Minnesotans prepare for winter, many will be heading to the store to grab a bag of deicing salt.
Before you douse your driveways and sidewalks, take a moment to understand the lasting impacts
deicing salt has on our lakes, rivers, and streams and what steps we can all take to protect our water.
Photo credit: Clean Water MN. Oversalting on sidewalk, next to building.
Photos credit: Mike Budd/USFWS. Minnesota river otters.
WINTER/SPRING 2026 | PAGE 13
Environmental
Melting snow and ice flow directly into our lakes, rivers, and streams, carrying deicing salts that are toxic to aquatic plants and animals.
The chloride and other chemicals in deicing salts are harmful to the environment, and once this chloride contaminates water, there is
no feasible way to remove it. Just one teaspoon of salt pollutes five gallons of water permanently.
We all want to prioritize safety, but it is critical to understand that more salt does not always mean less ice or safer conditions. Too
much salt can lead to costly damages and environmental consequences. Chloride harms plants and animals, contaminates drinking
water, damages buildings, and corrodes vehicles, roads, and bridges.
At home, everyone can adopt these winter maintenance best practices:
1.Shovel promptly after snowstorms to prevent ice buildup.
2.Use ice scrapers for stubborn ice instead of salt.
3.Check the temperature outside to ensure the deicer you choose will be
effective. Some deicers (like sodium chloride) won’t work if the pavement is
colder than 15°F.
4.Find other ways to gain traction, such as using sand or grit when
temperatures are below 15°F.
5.Apply salt sparingly, with granules spaced three inches apart. This
distribution is most effective for melting ice.
6.Sweep up leftover salt and sand to prevent runoff and to reuse it later.
7.Make sure you have a good pair of boots or traction devices to minimize
your chances of slipping outside in winter.
Additionally, WMWA is offering one-on-one consultations to facilities in parts of Hennepin County to address salt use and improve
snow and ice management, all while keeping communities safe, increasing environmental well-being, and decreasing winter
maintenance and infrastructure costs.
If you work with or are a member of a faith-based facility, homeowners association, or other business, within the WMWA territory
(which include the Bassett Creek, Elm Creek, Richfield, Bloomington, Shingle Creek, or West Mississippi watersheds) or are interested in
what kind of support you can receive in another watershed, contact Grace Barcelow at grace.barcelow@hennepin.us or 612-543-9295.
To see if your property is within WMWA territory, search for your property address on the natural resources map at
gis.hennepin.us/naturalresources.
Otters and Clean Water:
A Holiday Gift for Wildlife
River otters are playful, adorable mammals that remain active all winter long. They
slide across snowy banks, dive under ice, and hunt fish in cold streams and lakes. But
their survival depends on clean, healthy water.
Otters are considered an indicator species: their presence signals that rivers and lakes
are healthy enough to support abundant fish and intact natural shoreline habitat.
Pollution from road salt, litter, and runoff can degrade these waters, threatening
otters and the ecosystems they depend on. Chloride from de-icing salt, for example,
builds up in rivers and lakes over time, harming aquatic life and disrupting food
chains.
This holiday season, we can give otters the gift of clean water. By practicing smart
salting, disposing of trash properly, and keeping storm drains clear, we help protect
otters’ winter playgrounds. Every small action preserves the clean water otters, and
all of us, need to thrive.
Take a winter walk near a local stream or lake and look for signs of otters: slides in the
snow, tracks along the shoreline, or holes in the ice where they enter the water. These
sightings remind us that protecting water quality benefits both people and wildlife.
WWW.CORCORANMN.GOV
A farmer in Independence plants cereal rye as winter cover crop with a no-till drill.
Environmental
WINTER/SPRING 2026 | PAGE 14
Keeping The Soil Covered Until Spring
(Featured article and image from the Hennepin County Conservation Connection October
2025 Newsletter)
Hennepin County staff worked with a local farmer in
Independence to plant a winter cover crop of cereal rye. The
farmer was looking for a way to protect his soil over winter after
harvesting oats. Keeping vegetation or residue on top of farm
fields and a living root are great ways to ensure that soil is
protected from precipitation and the freeze/thaw cycle of fall,
winter, and spring.
The seed was planted using a no-till drill rented from neighboring
Carver County Soil and Water Conservation District and pulled
behind a small tractor. The implement cuts a small slit into the
soil, deposits the seed, and then covers up the disturbed area.
This is an ideal way to seed a cover crop since it keeps soil
disturbance to a minimum.
The farmer planted nearly 20 acres of cereal rye into his field after
oats were harvested in early September. Cereal rye is an
outstanding winter cover crop in Minnesota since it is extremely
cold tolerant, allowing it to grow late into the season. Additionally,
this crop is great at reducing erosion, and its fast and large growth
will help reduce weeds trying to grow in the spring. The cover
crop will be terminated before spring seeding, ensuring that the
soil is covered with plant residue the entirety of winter and into
the spring growing season.
Since this was the first time the farmer had tried cover crops,
Hennepin County staff helped to develop the seeding rate and
coordinated rental of the implement used for planting. The farmer
also received a flat rate incentive payment for cover crops planted
on each acre. If you are in need of a no-till drill, several
surrounding soil and water conservation districts have them
available to Hennepin County residents for rental, and Hennepin
County staff can help to get it to your field!
Want to know more about payments for soil health practices and
what it could look like for your farm? Reach out to Kevin Ellis at
kevin.ellis@hennepin.us or at 612-382-3956 to set up a consult or
site visit. We recommend you reach out well before you intend to
implement soil health practices to make sure you can meet signup
deadlines – you can never be too early!
Low Salt No Salt Minnesota
Source: https://www.cleanwatermn.org/resources/low-salt-no-salt-minnesota/
The overuse of deicers for winter maintenance is a growing
problem in Minnesota lakes, ponds, wetlands, streams, and
groundwater.
The leading source of chloride pollution is from deicing
chemicals (salts) used for winter maintenance. Chloride
damages property and the environment, harms aquatic
species, and impacts drinking water quality. About 50
waterbodies in Minnesota already have dangerous chloride
levels, and another 75 waterbodies are close to the danger
zone. Once chloride is in a waterbody, there is no feasible way to
remove it. It takes only one teaspoon of salt to permanently
pollute five gallons of water. Further, the alternatives to
chloride have other tradeoffs in cost, environmental impacts,
and service.
Therefore, the leading strategy for managing chloridepollution is to be
smart about its use;
applying it onlywhen, where, and in
the amount needed.
This also means that
every effort, big orsmall, helps reduce
chloride pollution!
8200 County Road 116
Corcoran, MN 55340
City of Corcoran
Front Desk — 763-420-2288
Police Department
Front Desk — 763-420-8966
Construction Complaints
(Outside of construction hours)
952-258-5321
City Administrator
Jay Tobin
763-420-2288
jtobin@corcoranmn.gov
City Website
www.corcoranmn.gov
City Council
Tom McKee, Mayor
tmckee@corcoranmn.gov
Michelle Friedrich, Councilor
michelle.friedrich@corcoranmn.gov
Mark Lanterman, Councilor
mlanterman@corcoranmn.gov
Jeremy Nichols, Councilor
jnichols@corcoranmn.gov
Dean Vehrenkamp, Councilor
dvehrenkamp@corcoranmn.gov
City of Corcoran meetings
and agenda packets can be
viewed on our website at:
www.corcoranmn.gov – Our
Government > Council >
Meetings/Videos/Agenda
Packets.
Corcoran News is published
quarterly by the City of
Corcoran to update
residents and businesses on
city government news.
Monthly Utility Bills
The city offers online account viewing and e-payment options
via www.invoicecloud.com/corcoranmn. You will need your
account number in order to access your utility account or pay
your bill online. Your account number can be found on the
upper right-hand side of your bill. You may also pay via cash or
check at City Hall. Residents and business can drop off
payments and utility service applications at the front desk
during regular business hours.
Visit www.corcoranmn.gov — Pay Bills to view, pay or login to
your utility billing account. Questions? Contact
utilitybilling@corcoranmn.gov or call 763-420-2288 and select
Option 1.
Connect With Corcoran
facebook.com/CorcoranMN
facebook.com/CorcoranPDMN
@CorcoranMNCity
@CorcoranPolice
Search:
City of Corcoran Minnesota
Visit:
linkedin.com/company/corcoranmn
General Information
WWW.CORCORANMN.GOV WINTER/SPRING 2026 | PAGE 16