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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-01 -- Winter-SpringLetter From The Mayor Low Salt No Salt Minnesota Source: https://rpbcwd.org/low-salt-no-salt Chlorides from winter maintenance operatfons are a local problem. University of Minnesota research shows that 3/4 of deicers stay where they are applied, permanently impairing waters for aquatfc life and human consumptfon. They also adversely change soil structure and prematurely age infrastructure. The overuse of deicers for winter maintenance is also a growing problem in Minnesota lakes, ponds, wetlands, streams, and groundwater. The leading source of chloride pollutfon is from deicing chemicals (salts) used for winter maintenance. Chloride damages property and the environment, harms aquatfc 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 alternatfves to chloride have other tradeoffs in cost, environmental impacts, and service. Therefore, the leading strategy for managing chloride pollutfon is to be smart about its use; applying it only when, where, and in the amount needed. This also means that every effort, big or small, helps reduce chloride pollution! Winter/Spring www.corcoranmn.gov Winter/Spring 2025 Corcoran News I hope everyone had a great holiday season! As we delve into 2025, I’d like to take a moment to thank you once again for your contfnued trust and support. It’s truly an honor to contfnue serving as your mayor, and I am thrilled to represent our community for the next four years. I’d also like to express my heartielt gratftude to Councilor Jon Bottema for his eight years of dedicated service on the City Council. His leadership and fierce advocacy for our community have left a positfve impact on Corcoran that will be felt for years to come. While Jon’s presence on the council will certainly be missed, we wish him all the best in his next chapter. As we start the new year, I’m delighted to welcome Michelle Friedrich as the newest member of the City Council. Michelle is a 24-year resident of Corcoran, and most re- cently has served as the vice-chair of our Parks and Trails Commission. I look forward to working with Councilor Friedrich, recently re-elected Council Members Mark Lanter- man and Dean Vehrenkamp, and (our longest tenured) Councilor Jeremy Nichols on the opportunitfes and challenges that lay ahead. If you’re new to the community — or just haven’t had the chance to meet everyone yet – I hope that you’ll come to an up- coming Council meetfng and say hello! In January, Council will be holding strategic planning sessions to set goals and establish prioritfes for what we hope to accomplish in the next year (and beyond). Stay tuned in the coming months for details on upcoming projects, legislatfve prioritfes, and much more as 2025 is shaping up to be another excitfng year for Corcoran! If you’re looking for an opportunity to get involved, there are a few important commis- sion vacancies that we hope to fill soon. Applicatfons are open through January 31, for a seat on the Parks and Trails Commission. Additfonally, we are acceptfng applicatfons for the positfons of Watershed Commissioner and Deputy Watershed Commissioner to the Elm Creek Watershed Commission. If you have questfons or would like to apply, visit the city website for more informatfon! As always, the City Council remains dedicated to meetfng the needs of our residents and business community. As we contfnue to see growth, we remain focused on guiding thoughtiul development that maintains the rural character that defines Corcoran, while encouraging opportunitfes to responsibly grow and diversify our tax base. As we move forward, I encourage you to stay engaged and share your feedback. Whether at open forum, a city event, or simply by reaching out to a Councilmember on an issue that is important to you – we welcome and encourage your input, as it is a critfcal part of shaping the decisions that affect us all. Please take a moment to read through this newsletter the latest news and community informatfon. You can also follow the City on Facebook (facebook.com/CorcoranMN), X (@CorcoranMNCity), or visit the city website (corcoranmn.gov) for regular updates throughout the year. Again, thank you for the opportunity to contfnue serving as your mayor. I look forward to contfnuing working for — and with — our community as we head into another promising year. Take Care, Tom McKee Mayor City of Corcoran tmckee@corcoranmn.gov 612-803-8101 Public Safety • Page 2 Page 11 Page 12 Page 8 Construction & Permits Page 4 Parks & Recreation 2025 Recycling Calendar Page 5 Page 10 www.corcoranmn.gov Pages 6-7 Public Works & Environmental Page 9 New Staff and Snow & Ice Community For information and updates, visit the City of Corcoran’s website: www.corcoranmn.gov General Information Winter/Spring 2025 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. Recognition At the December 4, 2024, Corcoran Holiday Luncheon: Awards were handed out by City Administrator, Jay Tobin, to an Employee of the Year representfng each department, with the additfon of the Changemaker Award, which was awarded for an overall positfve impact on the City. Recognition At the October 24 2024, Council Meetfng: Ken Guenthner was recognized for representfng the City of Corcoran as an Elm Creek Watershed Commissioner for the last six years. For almost 30 years, Guenthner has served the residents of Corcoran as a City Council Member, Mayor, and Elm Creek Watershed Commissioner. Guenthner was recognized for his service after his term on the Elm Creek Watershed Commission expired on September 11, 2024. Reed Kottke Administration Department Mike Pritchard Community Development Department Dan Wilcox Police Department Mark Reinking Public Works Department Changemaker Award Kevin Mattson Public Works Department Kevin Mattson & Mark Reinking Public Works Department Recognition At the December 12, 2024, Council Meetfng: Jon Bottema was recognized for his eight years of service on the Corcoran City Council from 2016-2024, deciding not to seek re- electfon. Bottema was also recognized for his years of service as the City of Corcoran’s appointed Commissioner for the Elm Creek Watershed from 2013-2016, as well as the City’s representatfve for the Metropolitan Council’s Land Use Committee since 2019. • Page 3 2025 Corcoran Events Calendar *Meetings may be held by telephone or other electronic means. Visit www.corcoranmn.gov for updates. Jan 14: Spring Baseball Registration Opens Jan 16: Parks & Trails Commission Meeting 7 p.m. — Council Chambers Jan 20: Holiday — City Hall Closed Jan 23: City Council Meeting 7 p.m. — Council Chambers Feb 6: Planning Commission Meeting 7 p.m. — Council Chambers Feb 13: City Council Meeting 7 p.m. — Council Chambers Feb 17: Holiday — City Hall Closed Feb 20: Parks & Trails Commission Meeting 7 p.m. — Council Chambers Feb 23: Spring Baseball Registration Closes Feb 27: Truck Safety Seminar 8 a.m. - noon — Public Works Facility Feb 27: City Council Meeting 7 p.m. — Council Chambers Mar 6: Planning Commission Meeting 7 p.m. — Council Chambers Mar 13: City Council Meeting 7 p.m. — Council Chambers Mar 16, 23 & 30: Firearms Safety Classes 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. — Hope Community Church Mar 20: Parks & Trails Commission Meeting 7 p.m. — Council Chambers Mar 27: City Council Meeting 7 p.m. — Council Chambers Apr 6 & 13: Firearms Safety Classes 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. — Hope Community Church Apr 26: Firearms Safety Field Day 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. — Corcoran City Hall Subscribe to Future Council Packets Visit Council Agenda Packets and look for the gray BELL icon with Subscribe and follow the prompts. The Corcoran Planning Commission meets on the first Thursday of the month at 7 pm at City Hall unless otherwise posted. The Planning Commission is an advisory board 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 makes recommendations regarding land use and planning applications to the City Council. Kwik Trip CUP, Lot Line Adjustment, and Site Plan (PID 12-119-23-14-0006; 12-119- 23-14- 0004) (City File 23-006). Kwik Trip Inc. submitted a Site Plan, Lot Line Adjustment and CUP applicatfon for the two parcels north of Mama G’s in early 2023. A feasibility study was required to evaluate the infrastructure needs of the project. The feasibility study has been distributed to the applicant. Staff and the applicant team contfnue to work through requirements for the applicatfon to move forward. Additfonal applicatfon materials were submitted to the City for a preliminary plat, final plat, variance, conditfonal use permit and site plan. The applicatfon is being reviewed for completeness and is not currently scheduled for any upcoming meetfngs. Pioneer Trail Industrial Park Final Plat & Final PUD (PID 32-119-23-43-0005, 32- 119- 23-43-0006, 32-119-23-43-0013)(City File 23-030). Contour Development LLC applied for a Final Plat and a Final PUD at 6210 Pioneer Trail. The applicatfon consists of 0 lots and 3 outlots. Council approved this item during the November 25, 2024, City Council meetfng. Tonka Auto CUP (PID 26-119-23-12-0004) (City File 24-008). Jake Hautman submitted a Site Plan Amendment, a Conditfonal Use Permit, and an Interim Use Permit applicatfon to allow the operatfon of an auto repair business, Tonka Auto, at 20201 County Road 50. The public hearing for this item was held during the November 7, 2024, Planning Commission meetfng. After some discussion, the Planning Commission recommended approval of this item as presented. Council approved this item during the November 25, 2024, City Council meetfng. Corcoran Industrial Northeast (PID 01-119-23-11-0001) (City File 24-010). Hemple Real Estate is seeking Council feedback on conceptual light industrial development at 10585 County Road 101. The plan includes 2 primary industrial buildings ranging from 200,200 to 342,000 sq ft on a 78.85-acre site. The applicant received informal feedback from the Council during the March 28, 2024, Council meetfng. An Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW) must be completed should the applicant decide to proceed with this development. Kariniemi Orchards Preliminary Plat (PID 11-119-23-11-0012) (City File 24-024). Nathan Kariniemi submitted an applicatfon for a preliminary open space & preservatfon plat to allow for the development of 16 single-family lots at 20400 County Road 30. The applicant has withdrawn this applicatfon. Old Farm Ridge (PID 36-119-23-33-0008) (City File 24-034). Michael Kelly submitted a preliminary plat, final plat, conditfonal use permit, and variance applicatfon to plat a single lot from Outlot A of Country Season Estates, located at 6620 County Road 116. The applicatfon is complete for City review and was scheduled for the December 5, 2024, Planning Commission meetfng. Arens Norling OS&P Concept Plan (PID 31-119-23-12-0007) (City File 24-037). Robb Norling submitted a concept plan for an open space and preservatfon (OS&P) plat that would consist of 8 single-family lots and 1 outlot at 6700 Pioneer Trail. The Council provided informal comments to the applicant during the November 25, 2024, City Council meetfng. Cannabis Regulation Code Amendments (Citywide) (City File 24-044). The City of Corcoran held a public hearing regarding the licensing of cannabis related businesses during the December 5, 2024, Planning Commission meetfng. Lother Subdivision Concept (PID 12-119-23-22-0009) (City File 24-048). Brian and Jacque Lother submitted a concept plan for informal feedback on a subdivision of their property at 10110 County Road 116. The concept consists of 22 single-family villa lots on a 9.87-acre parcel. This item is complete for City review and is scheduled for the January 23, 2025, regular meetfng. www.corcoranmn.gov Land Use Applications and Final Plats Winter/Spring 2025 Online Building Permit Submittal The City of Corcoran requires all building permits to be submitted online making interactfons more efficient and convenient. Through the online permit portal, residents and contractors can apply for building, plumbing, mechanical, land disturbance and utflity permits, check permit status and inspectfon results, and make electronic payments anytfme! The online permit portal requires a one- tfme account registratfon for all homeowners and contractors applying for a permit. A step-by-step guide is available online to help guide you with the process. To begin registratfon and/or apply for a permit visit www.corcoranmn.gov – Building Permits. Several permit checklists and additfonal permit informatfon and resources are available online under the Constructfon Services & Inspectfons web pages to help with your project. Visit www.corcoranmn.gov – Public Services > Construction Services & Inspections. Metro West Inspectfon Services is contracted to conduct plan reviews and inspectfons. For building code questfons or to schedule an inspectfon contact Metro West at 763-479-1720. Construction Services www.corcoranmn.gov • Page 4 Backflow Devices and Testing For additional information visit the MN Department of Labor and Industry at www.dli.mn.gov. What is backflow prevention? When the domestfc water supply system is connected to any system that has potentfal to pollute or contaminate the building or city water supply, backflow preventfon is required. Proper backflow preventfon on cross connectfons can eliminate contaminants from entering our public water supply and prevent contaminated water from entering the plumbing system in your home. Backflow Prevention Testing The 2020 Minnesota Plumbing Code requires that all testable backflow devices be tested upon installatfon and at least annually thereafter by a certffied backflow assembly tester. Backflow devices in residentfal homes are typically found in lawn irrigatfon systems and water supply lines for steam or hot water boilers supplied by city water. Property owners are responsible to have these devices tested annually by a State of Minnesota certffied backflow preventfon tester. Devices installed prior to January 23, 2016 are not required to be tested, however it is a good idea to have them inspected and tested. If you need a tester, search “backflow testers near me” online. Backflow testers are responsible to properly submit test results to the city. Responsibility of the owner The owner of the backflow preventfon device is responsible for making sure the backflow device is tested upon installatfon and arranging for a backflow device tester to test devices at least annually. Responsibility of the plumbing contractor The plumbing contractor is responsible for informing the building owner of the need to have their backflow devices tested upon installatfon and at least annually thereafter. Responsibility of the backflow tester The backflow device tester is responsible for testfng the backflow device and tagging it with the testfng date, tester signature and backflow certfficatfon number. Written records of testfng and maintenance must be maintained and submitted to the city within 30 days following the test. Winter/Spring 2025 Most Requested Permit Fees Reroof or Reside $91/ea Windows/Doors (same opening) $91 Furnace or A/C Replacement $76/unit Gas Fireplace $76 General Plumbing $51+ Water Heater or Water Softener $36/unit Fees include $1 State Surcharge. 2023 2024 Residentfal New Const……. 255 346 Commercial New Const….. 8 9 Deck/Porch…………………….. 115 124 Alteratfon/Remodel………. 90 78 Plumbing………………………... 181 244 Mechanical…………………….. 113 109 Other Construction Permits Issued 2023 2024 Land Disturbance……... 13 15 Utflity/ROW……………… 133 176 Permit Totals 1,125 permits issued in 2024 Firearms Safety Training Corcoran Firearms Safety classes are scheduled for March 16, 23, and 30, and April 6 and 13, from 6 p.m.—9 p.m., at Hope Community Church. The class will conclude with a Firearms Safety Field Day on April 26 from 8 a.m.—2 p.m., at Corcoran City Hall. Youth ages 11 and older can attend a firearms safety certfficatfon course and receive their certfficatfon. The Firearms Safety Certfficate becomes valid at age 12. For updated informatfon on registratfon dates, and locatfon(s) visit www.corcoranmn.gov — Public Services > Police > Training and Safety > Youth Firearm Safety Training or contact the Corcoran Police Administratfve Office at 763-420-8966. Registratfon will open early February 2025. Students must be 12 years old before November 1, 2025 to be eligible to take the class. • Page 5 Public Safety www.corcoranmn.gov Corcoran Police Administrative Office 763-420-8966 Office Hours 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Mon.— Thu. 7:30 a.m. - Noon, Fri. Non-Emergency: 952-258-5321 FOR EMERGENCIES DIAL 911 Winter/Spring 2025 Truck Safety Seminar The Corcoran Police and Public Works Departments will host the 17th Annual Truck Safety Seminar at the Corcoran Public Works facility February 27. The seminar will run from 8 a.m.—Noon, and will cover a multftude of items such as the new commercial vehicle laws for 2025, rules and regulatfons, vehicle equipment requirements, and much more. Coffee, rolls, and lunch are provided by donatfons from sponsors. For more informatfon on this free seminar and/or registratfon date(s) visit www.corcoranmn.gov — Public Services > Police > Training and Safety > Truck Safety Seminar. To be placed on the email list for seminar informatfon contact Corcoran Police Administratfve Office at 763-420- 8966, afadden@corcoranmn.gov or jheinecke@corcoranmn.gov. Winter Reminders 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 untfl such roads are plowed and snow has stopped accumulatfng and has been removed from such roads. No vehicle of 10,000 lbs. 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 requestfng your help in keeping fire hydrants accessible. Snow shoveled or piled close to hydrants restricts operatfon during a fire emergency. Please clear a three-foot circle around the hydrant near your home to assure easy access for the fire department. Plowing Snow Onto Roads Minnesota State Statute (169.42) prohibits relocatfng 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. Educate Children on the Dangers of Snow Removal Please educate children on the dangers of snow removal and make sure they play safely. Remind them to never build tunnels or forts in snowbanks near the street. The force and weight of the snow coming off the plows can collapse the tunnels or forts and harm the child. Keep sleds, toys, and basketball hoops out of the street and away from the edge of the road. Snowbanks make it difficult for plow drivers to see children playing in these areas. Children should never play on or near the edge of the road. Stay away from the plow. If a plow is on your street, children should stay back at least 20 feet or more from the road. It is best to have children play near the house as the snowplow approaches and stay there untfl the plow has passed. Winter Fire Prevention (Tips from West Suburban Fire District: www.facebook.com/westsuburbanfire) Winter fire prevention is crucial during the colder months. Safeguarding your home and loved ones is key to a safe winter season. To maintain a safe environment, it's essentfal to follow a few key guidelines. First, exercise cautfon with heatfng sources, such as space heaters. Ensure they are placed at least three feet away from flammable materials and equipped with safety features like automatfc shut-off. Regularly maintain and inspect your heatfng system, which includes furnaces and fireplaces, to minimize fire risks. When using a fireplace, employ a sturdy screen to contain sparks and have your chimney professionally cleaned to remove creosote buildup. Be cautfous in the kitchen, stay vigilant while cooking and keep flammable items and children away from the stove. Consider using flameless LED candles as a safer alternatfve to traditfonal candles. Never leave a lit candle unattended. Have fire extfnguishers available in your kitchen, garage, and on each floor, and make sure everyone in your household knows how to use them. Ensure your smoke alarms are functfoning correctly, with monthly tests and annual battery replacements. Carbon monoxide alarms, strategically placed near bedrooms and on each level of your home, offer an added layer of safety. Finally, develop and practfce a fire escape plan with your family complete with two exit routes from each room. These comprehensive measures will help you create a safer and more secure environment during the winter season. Mailbox ABC’s Helpful hints to protect your mailbox from the snowplow A. Front of mailbox should be flush with the back of the curb. B. Bottom of mailbox should be 42-45 inches to top of the street. C. Newspaper boxes and other containers 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 is BELOW THE CORRECT height. Snowplow blade HITS the mailbox. • Page 6 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 conditfons. 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 operatfons are as follows: • Snow accumulatfon 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 conditfons. Call out is normally at 2 am when practfcal. • 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 operatfons may be terminated after 12 – 14 hours to allow personnel adequate tfme to rest. High winds creatfng white out conditfons could cause suspension of services untfl weather improves. The City will assume no responsibility for damage to underground lawn sprinkling systems, exterior lightfng 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. Environmental 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 lastfng impacts deicing salt has on our lakes, rivers, and streams and what steps we can all take to protect our water. Meltfng snow and ice flow directly into our lakes, rivers, and streams, carrying deicing salts that are toxic to aquatfc 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 prioritfze safety, but it is critfcal to understand that more salt does not always mean less ice or safer conditfons. 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 practfces: 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 effectfve. Some deicers (like sodium chloride) won’t work if the pavement is colder than 15°F. 4. Find other ways to gain tractfon, such as using sand or grit when temperatures are below 15°F. 5. Apply salt sparingly, with granules spaced three inches apart. This distributfon is most effectfve for meltfng 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 tractfon devices to minimize your chances of slipping outside in winter. Additfonally, WMWA is offering one-on-one consultatfons to facilitfes in parts of Hennepin County to address salt use and improve snow and ice management, all while keeping communitfes 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 associatfon, 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 at gis.hennepin.us/naturalresources). Public Works Winter/Spring 2025 • Page 7 Corcoran Water Tower/Water Treatment Plant Q & A The Public Works Department will be providing a quarterly update on community issues such as infrastructure and other City-led projects. These updates are in response to resident inquiries. This quarter we are focusing on the City’s new Water Tower and Water Treatment Plant which are slated to open in 2025. Have a question? Get in touch! pw@corcoranmn.gov 1. I live nearby, will the water tower affect my well? The functfon of the water tower is storage and increasing pressure to the system. Municipal wells are the source of the drinking water and are permitted in an aquifer hundreds of feet below ground. The typical residentfal wells are much shallower in a different aquifer and should not be affected by the drawdown of the well. 2. What is the benefit of having the tower and treatment plant on separate properties? The preferred locatfon for each of these facilitfes varies in terms of maximizing performance and minimizing both upfront capital and long-term operatfonal costs. For example, the tower is best located at the highest point in an area providing added pressure and the treatment plant is best located near groundwater sources reducing the amount of underground infrastructure. 3. Who will the water treatment plant and tower serve? The new water supply system will serve “Northeast Corcoran” an area generally described as west of County Road 101, south of the Rogers city border, east of Cain Road, and north of Schutte Road. This currently includes the neighborhoods of Bellwether, Amberly, and Hope Meadows. It has capacity to support both future development and the future connectfon of existfng neighborhoods also located in “Northeast Corcoran.” 4. Will the water be different than the water I receive now from Maple Grove? The new drinking water will be similar to the existfng Maple Grove’s in that the water quality treatment process is primarily iron and manganese removal, however, the source of the drinking water is from a different aquifer. Environmental www.corcoranmn.gov Creature Feature: Help Birds Survive Winter (Featured articles and images from the Hennepin County Conservation Connection January 2024 Newsletter) Winter/Spring 2025 (Clockwise from upper left) American goldfinch (male in winter), blue jay, downy woodpecker, and northern cardinal Surprisingly, many birds remain in Minnesota during the winter, braving the cold when food sources are scarce. Staying warm and getting enough food is key to surviving freezing cold and snow. Many birds who overwinter here have developed adaptatfons and strategies to persevere amid the harsh conditfons. Here are some of the common species you might see: • American goldfinches: Males lose their bright yellow plumage in fall, turning olive drab, but they stay year-round. • Blue jays: Winter jays may be visitors from the north, while summer residents move slightly south. • Brown creepers: These tfny, elusive birds spiral up tree trunks searching for food. • Cardinals: Their bright red plumage stands out beautffully against snowy landscapes. • Chickadees and nuthatches: Both black- capped chickadees and white-breasted nuthatches stfck around, and sometfmes red-breasted nuthatches join them. • Common redpolls and pine siskins: These migrants sometfmes appear in large numbers when northern seed crops fail. • Dark-eyed juncos: Arriving in fall, they forage on the ground and are drawn to heated birdbaths. • House finches: Males range in color from raspberry to orange hues. Juveniles are less vibrant. • Woodpeckers: Downy, hairy, pileated, and red-bellied woodpeckers frequent suet feeders in the winter. How to help birds in the winter: • Provide food: Offer a mix of seeds, suet, and nuts. Feeders attract species like woodpeckers, finches, and jays. • Add water: A heated birdbath provides essentfal drinking water when natural sources freeze. • Offer shelter: Dense shrubs, evergreen trees, and roostfng boxes protect birds from harsh weather. By providing food, water, and shelter, you can help these resilient winter birds survive and thrive. Set up feeders and birdbaths now to support them through the cold season and enjoy their presence in your yard all winter long! Cover Crop Highlight: Winter Cereal Rye (Featured articles and images from the Hennepin County Conservation Connection January 2024 Newsletter) Winter cereal rye is one of the most common cover crops used in Minnesota – and for good reason. It grows easily, survives through winters, prevents erosion, and seed is relatfvely cheap. A typical timeline for winter cereal rye looks like: • Harvestfng cash crop in fall • Seeding winter cereal rye following harvest, usually mid-October - If you tfll, you can broadcast seed at a higher rate - If you do not tfll, it is recommended that you drill in the seed • Rye will grow a few inches in the fall, then stay somewhat short over the winter • In spring, terminate rye a couple weeks before plantfng a cash crop. Herbicide or mechanical methods can be used depending on your preference. Questions about winter cereal rye or cover crops in general? Reach out to us! We can help you figure out what might be right for you. We also have funding for farmers that are new to trying cover crops. Contact Roz Davis, Hennepin County conservatfon specialist, at 952-262-0397, or at rozalyn.davis@hennepin.us. Pictured: Winter cereal rye that was broadcast into soybean residue. Rye was planted in early November and this picture was taken in mid-April. • Page 5 www.corcoranmn.gov Winter/Spring 2025 • Page 9 Corcoran Skating Rinks Corcoran's skatfng rinks offer fun and recreatfon for cold weather enthusiasts of all ages. Building and maintaining the rinks depends on many variables. To start making ice, crews need temperatures to be around 0 to –10 degrees F for about one week and frozen ground approximately four inches deep. The crews 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 aimed to be opened for the season in early January, and weather permitting, will remain open untfl late February. Depending on weather conditfons, the Public Works crew generally cleans and resurfaces the rinks daily between 7 a.m.— 3 p.m. (roads and public safety are first prioritfes). If you see the Public Works crew at the rinks, please vacate the rinks and allow them tfme and space to complete the cleaning 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 utflizing the rinks are encouraged to call the weather line prior to going to the rinks. Parks and Recreation Corcoran 2024 Holiday Toy and Food Drive Recap www.corcoranmn.gov Winter/Spring 2025 Baseball Registration – Open SOON! It is tfme to start thinking about spring baseball! Registratfon will be available for t-ball (4-5 years old), coach pitch (6-7 years old), and machine pitch (8-10) years old. Residents of Corcoran receive priority registratfon startfng on Monday, January 6, at 8 a.m., through Monday, January 13, at 11:59 p.m. Online priority registratfon will require residents to use the password “Foul” to begin the registratfon process. Registratfon opens to all on Tuesday, January 14, at 8 a.m. and runs through February 23 (or untfl filled), and can be completed online (www.corcoranmn.gov). The seasons run from late April untfl mid-June. Registratfon for machine pitch includes the opportunity to partfcipate in the mid-season jamboree against other teams in the league! Volunteer coaches are needed – if interested, be sure to mark that on your child’s registratfon! Volunteer coaches receive one registratfon refund per team coached at the end of the season. Partfcipants are expected to bring their own baseball glove and are highly encouraged to bring their own bat and helmet. Toy Recap Approximately $11,670 worth of toys and monetary donatfons were given for Toys for Tots. Food Recap Over 1,500 pounds of food donated. Thank you to everyone who donated, your donatfons make a difference! Summer Soccer We are excited to share updates about this year’s soccer season, but please note that the season may be impacted by the City Park Remaster Project. The project is antfcipated to begin in June or July, and depending on the tfmeline and constructfon impact, it may prevent the season from running as it has in previous years—or from happening at all. We understand the importance of this program for our community and will provide updates as soon as more informatfon is available. Please check the next newsletter and visit our website at www.corcoranmn.gov for the latest updates about the soccer season and the park project. Thank you for your understanding and patfence as we work through this excitfng park improvement initfatfve! Winter Driving Source: MN Department of Public Safety and Homeland Security and Emergency Management https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/hsem/programs/weather- safety/winter-hazards-awareness Everyone should be cautfous about traveling in extreme winter weather. Cold, snow, and ice are demanding on cars, drivers, and passengers. Cold affects metal, rubber, and other materials in your car. It can reduce the effectfveness of your vehicle’s battery by at least 50 percent. It can freeze tfres and keep them flat on the bottom for at least the first half-mile of travel. It can thicken your car’s lubricants, making the engine work too hard. Most importantly, extreme winter weather can threaten your life. Follow the tfps found at the link below to stay safe as you drive in Minnesota. Winter Driving Survival Tips • Page 10 Corcoran Lions Scholarship Program The Corcoran Lions are excited to offer our 37th annual scholarship program. Each year it is a great opportunity to be able to help our youth with the opportunity to further their educatfon. As in years past, the basic rules remain the same and they are as indicated below. The scholarship applicatfons deadline date is April 11, 2025. Award Ceremony will be held on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at locatfon to be determined at a later date. The Corcoran Lions Club awards scholarships to graduatfng seniors who live in the City of Corcoran. This year the Lion’s will have the 16th annual Bill Schalo Scholarship. Bill’s Scholarship is given based on community service in our community of Corcoran. This scholarship is given in memory of our fellow lion’s member who gave so freely to our community for so many years. The scholarships are based on academic, leadership, service to community, and a need basis. The graduate must attend a college, junior college, university, trade or vocatfonal school, in the year directly following graduatfon, to receive the award. The applications deadline is April 11, 2025, along with a transcript of their grades. Applicatfons can be found on our 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 high school outside of the area or has been home schooled and stfll resides in the city of Corcoran you are stfll eligible for a Scholarship. Please contact Jerry Cain by email if you need an applicatfon: jerryjcain@gmail.com. (Corcoran Lions Scholarship Program continued in section to the right —>) www.corcoranmn.gov Community Winter/Spring 2025 North Hennepin Pioneer Society Have you ever looked into your attic, closet or storage and found a treasure to be restored and displayed or used again? If and when you find a treasure that appears to be from one of the eight schools in Corcoran (report cards, books, photos, etc.), please remember the North Hennepin Pioneer Society and bring them back to School. Everyone will benefit from your special treasure, as it will be shared! Unfortunately, the school will be closed for the winter. But the Society is looking forward to tours, school children, home schoolers, and visitors coming again when the snow has melted and warm weather returns! Contact them to set up a date! The Society would also like to welcome all who are interested in preserving history to give them a call and attend a meetfng. The 2025 winter meetfngs start on February 15, with the locatfon stfll to be announced. Finally, mark your calendars for the NHPS 2025 Summerfest taking place on August 10, from noon—4:30 p.m. Contact information: Bonnie (763-639-1438) Dale P. (763-458-9880) Email: CorcoranSchool1894@gmail.com Yearly Membership is $15 per person, $25 per couple. The Society is contfnuously seeking historical documents of Corcoran, including photographs or items you may have for donatfon or to copy. They are also seeking voluntary help for the grounds upkeep, building maintenance labor, and monetary donatfons to help with the expenses. NHPS is a 501©(3) non-profit organizatfon. Burschville Schoolhouse Classroom from 1962 Corcoran Lions Scholarship Program Continued Applications and supporting documents can be mailed to the following address: Lion Jerry Cain 22835 County Road 10 Rogers, MN 55374 The Corcoran Lions Club is a service organizatfon that helps build communitfes through events, donatfons, and assistance. The Lions Club makes donatfons to many organizatfons in our communitfes, which include the police and fire and City Hall. Their goal is to encourage new memberships and promote events held at the Corcoran Lions Park. In 2025, Lions Members are looking forward to hostfng events at the Corcoran Lions Park this summer. Sincerely, Lion Jerry Cain Chairman of the Scholarship Committee • Page 11 www.corcoranmn.gov Be Stormwater Smart: Snow and Ice Management Source Materials and Images: https://www.epa.gov/npdes/stormwater-smart- outreach-tools#usingmaterials https://www.westmetrowateralliance.org/chloride- pollution.html Have you ever watched water run down a gutter or pool on the side of the road during a storm? What happens to all the water? Most stormwater—the water from rain and snow—runs over the land and down a storm drain. The water flows through a network of underground pipes and open channels directly to our streams, rivers, and lakes. That’s why keeping stormwater clean is vital to the health of our waterways, community, and even our economy. This is a good reminder in the winter as we work to improve snow and ice management. Did you know that one teaspoon of salt pollutes five gallons of water FOREVER? When de-icing salt (a.k.a. chloride) enters bodies of water, there is no easy way to remove it. Chloride harms plants and animals, contaminates drinking water, damages buildings, and corrodes vehicles, roads, and bridges. To reduce chloride pollutfon, West Metro Water Alliance (WMWA) is offering one-on-one consultatfons to facilitfes to address salt use and improve snow and ice management, all while keeping communitfes safe, increasing environmental well-being, and decreasing winter maintenance and infrastructure costs. Learn more at westmetrowateralliance.org/ chloride-pollutfon. Actions you can take at home when managing snow and ice this winter: 1. Shovel as soon as possible after a snowstorm to prevent ice buildup. 2. Add an ice scraper to your toolbox. These are often more effectfve than salt when ice has built up on sidewalks and driveways. 3. Read the label on your deicer to make sure it will properly work in the current weather conditfons. At low temperatures, typically colder than 15 degrees F, regular road salt will not melt ice. 4. Use sand or grit for tractfon when temperatures are too cold for salt to work. 5. Use salt sparingly. Generally, aim to have salt granules dispersed three inches apart. Winter/Spring 2025 Lauren Letsche My name is Lauren Letsche, and I am excited to be here! I started at the beginning of November as the Engineering Development Superintendent. My work in municipal government spans 15 years. Prior to joining the City of Corcoran, I was an Engineering Technician IV / Stormwater Specialist with the City of Columbia Heights. I have a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Iowa State University. In my free tfme I enjoy spending tfme with my family and friends, trail & mountain biking, snowboarding, and spending tfme outdoors or at the lake. I look forward to engaging with the community and bring my past experiences and skill set to the growing community of Corcoran. Joe Pavey I am thrilled to be a part of the team here at the City of Corcoran as the new Utflity Superintendent. I have worked in the Utflity industry for the past 20 years and have a true passion for this field. I am eager to share my knowledge and experience with the City of Corcoran and its residents. Outside of work, I enjoy spending tfme with my wife and two daughters. We reside in Watertown, where we frequently host get-togethers with friends and neighbors. I have a true passion for everything outdoors which include huntfng, fishing, and spending tfme at our family cabin in Hackensack. I am honored for the opportunity to start the Utflity Department and have an impact on the development of this thriving community. Joshua Reisner I joined the City of Corcoran as a Community Service Officer at the start of December. I am originally from Golden Valley and currently reside in St. Louis Park. Previously I've been working at the Mall of America as a Patrol Officer and I'm eager to apply my experience and skills I have gained to my new role here in Corcoran. I look forward to meetfng members of the community while I'm out driving around and working events. City of Corcoran Welcomes New Staff Snow and Ice Control Operations Garbage can driveway location During winter months, please be sure to place garbage containers inside your driveway perimeter or boundary on garbage pickup days. Garbage containers should never be placed on the roadway as they are a traffic hazard and an obstacle to the effectfve and safe removal of snow and ice in the winter. Mailbox reminder Inspect your existfng mailbox post for damage and replace before the winter snowplowing season begins. Ensure your mailbox posts are sturdy, set solidly in the ground, and in good conditfon before the snow falls. (see Mailbox ABC’s in left column of page 6 for tips on how to protect your mailbox from the snowplow) Swing-Away mailbox post option 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 regulatfons and MNDOT’s specificatfons. An example is currently on display by the main entrance of Corcoran City Hall. Swing-Away Mailbox Posts are available to purchase for $130.00 for the individual product or installed by Corcoran Public Works for $215.00. 8200 County Road 116 Corcoran, MN 55340 General Information •Page 12 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 meetfngs can be viewed via video links at www.corcoranmn.gov. Corcoran News is published quarterly by the City of Corcoran to update residents and businesses on city government news. Organics Recycling Source: https://www.hennepin.us/ residents/recycling-hazardous- waste/organics-recycling About one-third of our trash is organic materials, including food, food- soiled paper, and certffied compostable products, that could be composted. Organics recycling is the best opportunity to reduce our trash and put it to better use. While compostfng is great for disposing of food scraps and other compostable materials, preventfng wasted food is even more important and more impactiul. Making simple changes and working to adopt new habits can have a big impact. Creatfng and following a meal plan, keeping track of and using up the food you buy, understanding date labels, and learning how to properly store and process food can all significantly reduce the amount of food waste you generate. For more informatfon on resources that will help you reduce food waste and/or more informatfon on organics recycling, visit the Hennepin County recycling webpage: https://www.hennepin.us/ residents/recycling-hazardous-waste/ organics-recycling. www.corcoranmn.gov Monthly Utility Bills The city offers online account viewing and e-payment optfons via www.invoicecloud.com/corcoranmn. You will need your account number in order to access your utflity 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 place payments and utflity service applicatfons in the outdoor drop box located by the main entrance of City Hall at any tfme or at the front desk during business hours. Visit www.corcoranmn.gov — Pay Bills to view, pay or login to your utflity billing account. Questfons? Contact utflitybilling@corcoranmn.gov or call 763-420-2288 and select Optfon 1. Connect with Corcoran facebook.com/CorcoranMN facebook.com/CorcoranPDMN @CorcoranMNCity @CorcoranPolice Search: City of Corcoran Minnesota Winter/Spring 2025