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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-10 -- Fall-WinterLetter From The Mayor Homestead Deadline December 31 The homestead classificatfon applies to propertfes owned, and physically occupied by the owner(s) as the principal place of residence. Classificatfon as a homestead may qualify the property for a reduced classificatfon rate, a reduced taxable market value, a property tax refund, and/or other special program eligibility. The deadline to apply for 2025 homestead status is December 31, 2024. Apply online or complete a paper applicatfon at www.hennepin.us/ homestead. Mail your completed applicatfon to: Hennepin County Assessor 300 S 6th Street, MC-213H Minneapolis, MN 55487 Questions? Email: ao.homestead@hennepin.us Phone: 612-348-3046 Fall/Winter 2024 www.corcoranmn.gov Fall/Winter 2024 Corcoran News Delinquent Assessments All delinquent utflity bills, including water and sewer, recycling and property maintenance charges are subject to certfficatfon to Hennepin County for collectfon as part of the 2024 taxes payable in 2025. Additfonal late charges and fees will be added to the delinquent amount if not paid by the date stated on the Late Bill Notfce. On Thursday, October 24, 2024, a public hearing will be held on the assessment of delinquent fees at 7 p.m. at Corcoran City Hall. The last day to make a payment for delinquent charges is November 25, 2024, as the City will finalize the certfficatfon process of delinquent charges and fees on this date. As summer winds down, I am excited to share some significant progress on our city’s ongoing infrastructure projects. The City of Corcoran contfnues to move forward on key initfatfves that will start our municipal water system and provide high-speed internet access for residents across our community. On September 9, we hit a major milestone in the constructfon of the new water tower. The much- antfcipated raising of the tank to the top of the tower was completed and welded into place. This excitfng step marked a visible transformatfon of the structure, which will soon serve as an essentfal part of our city's water infrastructure. Since then, work has contfnued on the tower with teams installing the top panels to enclose the tower. In the coming weeks, you should see the additfon of white paint and the placement of the new Corcoran city logo. Just across County Road 116, work on the water treatment facility is progressing steadily. This facility will play a vital role in delivering clean and reliable water to northeast Corcoran. Crews are working diligently, and weather permitting, we are on track to have operatfonal city water available in early 2025. This project represents a critfcal step toward improving infrastructure in one of the fastest-growing parts of the city. I will make sure to keep you updated on the progress! In additfon to the advancements in our water infrastructure, I am thrilled to report that Comcast has completed the installatfon of over 70 miles of fiber optfc lines throughout Corcoran! This project ensures that residents across the city will have access to high-speed internet, providing access to this essentfal service to homes and businesses alike. Keep an eye on our website and social media pages for more informatfon on an upcoming ribbon cutting ceremony taking place on October 24, 2024, to celebrate a year since the groundbreaking! If you are interested in signing up for service, keep an eye out for mailers from Comcast this fall. For more details, you can also visit their project website at https:// midwest.comcast.com/corcoranexpansion/. I am hopeful that this significant upgrade will make it easier for our residents to work, learn, and connect from home! As we look forward to contfnued progress, I encourage you to read through this newsletter for the latest community news and other important updates. As always, if you have any questfons, concerns, or would like to discuss anything further, please feel free to reach out to me directly. Take care, Tom McKee Mayor City of Corcoran Election • Page 2 City Updates The Corcoran City Council meets on the second and fourth Thursdays of the month at 7 pm at City Hall unless otherwise posted. The following is a recap of a selectfon of items discussed at meetfngs 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 Code Amendment (Parking Regulations) As a reminder, on October 26, 2023, City Council adopted Ordinance No. 2023-503 amending the text of Chapter 71 of the City Code pertaining to citywide parking regulatfons. This amendment addresses restricted parking, owner responsibility, emergency parking regulatfons, and the impounding of vehicles. Reviewing this chapter of the City Code is recommended, especially as we approach the winter months. The City Code can be found on our website under Our Government > City Code > Municipal Code with Adopted Ordinances and Amendments, or by clicking on the following link: Corcoran City Municipal Code. Recognition At the July 25, 2024, Council Meetfng: -Shawna Zuther was recognized for her five years of service with the City of Corcoran. -Matt Gottschalk was recognized for his 10 years of service with the City of Corcoran. -Ryan Burns was recognized for his 30 years of service with the City of Corcoran. At the September 26, 2024, Council Meetfng: -Mark Reinking was recognized for his five years of service with the City of Corcoran. -Joe Zerwas Jr. was recognized for his 20 years of service upon his retfrement. Fall/Winter 2024 Page 15 Page 16 General Information Pages 9-10 Budget & Levy Pages 4-5 Parks & Recreation Public Safety Page 6 Pages 12-13 www.corcoranmn.gov Pages 7-8 Construction Services and Public Works Page 11 Environmental & New Staff Community City Center Drive Seating City Center Drive Landscaping Northeast Water Treatment Plant City Center Drive Utility and Street Improvements Project The City Center Drive Utflity and Street Improvements project is substantfally complete with site restoratfon remaining. The streetscape amenitfes will be a community space for all Corcoran residents including those moving into St. Therese. Hackamore Road Improvement Project The Hackamore Road Improvement project is substantfally complete with site restoratfon remaining. This project was completed in partnership with the City of Medina and Hennepin County. Northeast Water Supply Tower and Treatment Plant Constructfon work contfnues to progress on the Northeast Water Supply Tower and Treatment Plant projects. Both facilitfes are projected to be operatfonal in the first quarter of 2025. The City’s new logo is antfcipated to be painted on the water tower later this fall. Hackamore Road For information and updates, visit the City of Corcoran’s website: www.corcoranmn.gov Northeast Water Supply Tower • Page 3 Fall/Winter 2024 2024 Corcoran Events Calendar *Meetfngs may be held by telephone or other electronic means. Visit www.corcoranmn.gov for updates. Oct 17: Parks & Trails Commission Meeting 7 p.m. — Council Chambers Oct 24: City Council Meeting 7 p.m. — Council Chambers Oct 26: Extended Voting Day Absentee Votfng Open 9 a.m. — 3 p.m. Oct 29: Extended Voting Day Absentee Votfng Open 8 a.m. — 7 p.m. Nov 2: Extended Voting Day Absentee Votfng Open 9 a.m. — 3 p.m. Nov 3: Extended Voting Day Absentee Votfng Open 9 a.m. — 3 p.m. Nov 4: Extended Voting Day Absentee Votfng Open 8 a.m. — 5 p.m. Nov 5: Election Day Polls Open 7 a.m. — 8 p.m. Nov 7: Planning Commission Meeting 7 p.m. — Council Chambers Nov 11: Holiday — City Hall Closed Nov 28-29: Holiday — City Hall Closed Nov 14: City Council Meeting 7 p.m. — Council Chambers Nov 21: Parks & Trails Commission Meeting 7 p.m. — Council Chambers Nov 25: City Council Meeting 7 p.m. — Council Chambers Dec 5: Planning Commission Meeting 7 p.m. — Council Chambers Dec 10: Holiday Toy and Food Drive Dec 16: City Council Meeting 7 p.m. — Council Chambers Dec 19: Parks & Trails Commission Meeting 7 p.m. — Council Chambers Dec 24-25: Holiday — City Hall Closed 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-votfng member. The Commission holds public hearings, reviews, and then makes recommendatfons regarding land use and planning applicatfons to the City Council. 3019 Addition Comprehensive Plan Amendment, Rezoning, and Preliminary Plat (PID 07- 119-23-14-0003) (City File 23-027). Craig Scherber & Associates LLC applied for a Preliminary Plat, Rezoning, and Comprehensive Plan Amendment for a Rural Residentfal and Rural Commercial Development on the property at PID 07-119-23-14-0003. The applicatfon includes 15 commercial lots and 4 single-family residentfal lots. The applicant received Council feedback on a concept version of this proposal at the February 8, 2024, meetfng. A feasibility study has been completed to evaluate the infrastructure needs of the project. This item is complete for City review and the public hearing has been scheduled for the October 3, 2024, Planning Commission meetfng. 610 Extension Business Park Concept Plan (PID 12-119-23-23-0001) (City File 24-003). United Propertfes submitted a Concept Plan applicatfon to develop a business park at the Oswald Farm, located at 19510 County Road 30. The narratfve provided by the applicant describes the proposed business park to range from 864,000 - 1,017,500 sq fl on the 76.89 -acre parcel. The applicant submitted revised plans which indicate two 128,000 sq fl buildings, and two 168,000 sq fl buildings. The applicant received informal feedback from the Council during the May 21, 2024, City Council meetfng. A work session for this item was scheduled for September 26, 2024. Hope Meadows Final Plat, Final PUD (PID 11-119-23-11-0012) (City File 24-025). JPB Land, LLC. submitted applicatfon materials for a Final Plat and a Final Planned Unit Development for the first phase of “Hope Meadows”. For the first phase, the applicant is requestfng approval of a Final Plat that would allow the development of 52 rowhome lots and 4 villa lots near the northwest corner of Hunters Ridge and County Road 116. The Planning Commission discussed the PUD Amendment during the August 1 meetfng. Afler some discussion, the Commission motfoned to recommend approval of the PUD amendment. This item was scheduled for the September 12, 2024, Council meetfng. Domino’s Pizza (PID 23-119-23-43-0003, 23-119-23-43-0004) (City File 24-027). Strack Constructfon, Co. Inc. is seeking approval of a lot consolidatfon, site plan, CUP, and variance to allow the development of a Domino’s drive-thru/walk-out only store on the former site of the Corcoran Meat Locker and the 10-50 Club. The public hearing for this item was held during the September 5, 2024, Planning Commission meetfng. Afler some discussion, the Commission voted to recommend approval of the site plan, CUP, and variance requests. This item was scheduled for the September 26, 2024, Council meetfng. M&J Creekside Vineyard Concept Plan (PID 08-119-23-23-0017 & 08-119-23-23-0018) (City File 24-038). Margaret and John Fernandez are seeking Council feedback on a concept plan for a wine tastfng room/private event space on their property at 23020 County Road 30. This item is complete for City review and was scheduled for the September 26, 2024, Council meetfng. Upward Acres Final Plat (PID 17-119-23-13-0001) (City File 24-031). Skies Limit LLC. submitted an applicatfon for the final plat of Upward Acres, which would allow the development of 6 single-family lots at 22625 County Road 10. City Council approved the preliminary plat and variance for Upward Acres during the June 27, 2024, meetfng. This item is under review for completeness and was scheduled for the September 26, 2024, Council meetfng. Heather Meadows 3 rd Addition Preliminary Plat/OS&P (PIDs 05-119-23-31-0001 & 088- 119-23- 22-0011) (City File 24-032). Mark and Markus Lee, of ML Unlimited LLC, submitted a final plat applicatfon to create 12 single-family lots and 2 outlots at 22901 Oakdale Drive. The Council approved the Variance, CUP, and Preliminary Plat with additfonal conditfons for Heather Meadows during the June 27, 2024, regular meetfng. This item is complete for City review and was scheduled for the September 26, 2024, Council meetfng. Schuttee/Streeter Rezoning Concept (PID 26-119-23-13-0006) (City File 24-033). Ken Streeter, on behalf of Phil Schuttee, is requestfng council feedback on a concept plan that would rezone the property at 20130 Larkin Road from Light Industrial (I-1) to Medium Density Residentfal. This item is complete for City review and was scheduled for the September 26, 2024, Council meetfng. www.corcoranmn.gov Land Use Applications and Final Plats • Page 4 Fall/Winter 2024 www.corcoranmn.gov • Page 5 Fall/Winter 2024 www.corcoranmn.gov Election Registration Information Voter Registratfon is required prior to castfng your ballot. To register, complete a Minnesota Voter Registratfon Applicatfon by mail, in person, or online at mnvotes.org. You may also register on Electfon Day at your polling place with required informatfon to prove your residency. To register, you must be: • A U.S. citfzen. • At least 18 years old on Electfon Day. • A resident of Minnesota for 20 days. • Not currently incarcerated for a felony convictfon. • You can vote while under guardianship unless a judge specifically has revoked your right to vote. • You cannot vote if a court has ruled that you are legally incompetent. *If you have moved, changed names, or haven't voted within four years, you must update your registratfon by completfng a new registratfon applicatfon. Absentee Voting Absentee Vote via Mail If you are unable to vote in person at City Hall, visit sos.state.mn.us/electfons- votfng/ to complete the absentee ballot applicatfon process online. If you’re unable to complete the applicatfon online, you can pick up an applicatfon at Corcoran City Hall or call 763-420-2288 to request an absentee ballot applicatfon be sent to you. Upon receipt of completed and signed applicatfon, your absentee ballot will be sent via Hennepin County. Election Information on the City of Corcoran Website Additfonal electfon informatfon is available on the City’s website. You can find this sectfon under General Electfon Informatfon • Page 6 Fall/Winter 2024 www.corcoranmn.gov Election Information General Election Dates Sept 20: Absentee votfng begins Oct 15: Last day to Pre-Register to vote for the Electfon (Registratfon on Electfon Day available) Oct 26: City Hall open from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. for absentee votfng Oct 29: City Hall open from 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. for absentee votfng Nov 2: City Hall open from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. for absentee votfng Nov 3: City Hall open from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. for absentee votfng Nov 4: City Hall open untfl 5 p.m. for in-person absentee votfng Nov 5: General Electfon day, polls open from 7 a.m. – 8 p.m. For more informatfon on electfons contact Deb Johnson, City Clerk, via email at dkjohnson@corcoranmn.gov or 763-338-9291 or visit sos.state.mn.us/electfons-votfng/. To find your polling locatfon visit: https:// pollfinder.sos.state.mn.us/. 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 Road 116, Corcoran, MN 55340 2024 Elections Poll Finder If you need more informatfon during this upcoming electfon season about the district you live in, your representatfves, or your polling locatfon, the Minnesota Secretary of State website is a great resource. By visitfng the following link, https:// pollfinder.sos.state.mn.us/, you will have the opportunity to find your polling place (where you vote, map, and directfons), districts for your precinct (including maps), your next electfon, and the list of candidates (candidates and questfons on the ballot at your next electfon, when available). 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 with account registratfon and the online permitting process. To begin the registratfon process and/or apply for a permit visit Apply For A Permit Several permit checklists and additfonal permit informatfon and resources are available online under the Constructfon Services and Inspectfons web pages to help with your project. Visit Constructfon Services Inspectfons Construction Services www.corcoranmn.gov Fall/Winter 2024 • Page 7 Most Requested Building Permit Fees 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 Soflener $36/unit *Fees include $1 state surcharge. Building Permit Frequently Asked Questions Do I need a permit? A building permit is required to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, or change in the use of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert, or replace any gas, mechanical, electrical, or plumbing system, or other equipment. The City enforces the Minnesota State Building Code and contracts with Metro West Inspectfon Services to conduct plan reviews and inspectfons. What type of permit do I need? Several permit checklists and additfonal permit informatfon and resources are available to help you with your project under the Construction Services and Inspections web pages or by visitfng Permit Checklists and Supplements. What building work is exempt from a permit? • One story tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses (ex. gazebos or pergolas) < 200 square feet • Fences < 7 feet high (Zoning permit required, contact Planning and Zoning). • Retaining walls < 4 feet high (Land Disturbance permit may be required). • Sidewalks and *driveways *(Land Disturbance permit may be required). • Paintfng, papering, tfling, carpetfng • Cabinets, countertops, and similar finish work • Prefabricated swimming pools < 24 inches deep • Swings and playground equipment • Window awnings that project < 54 inches • Decks and platiorms < 30 inches above grade, not attached to dwelling and not serving required exit door Who do I contact for building code related questions? Contact the City's contracted Building Official, Metro West Inspectfon Services at 763-479-1720. What are the requirements for size, height, setbacks, architectural standards, etc.? Contact Planning and Zoning for questfons regarding zoning requirements or view the Corcoran City Municipal Code – Zoning Ordinance, Title X, Sec. 1030.020. How much time does it take to review an application? Permits requiring plan review may take up to 15 working days to approve. Review tfme may vary based on the complexity of the project and/or the completeness of the constructfon documents. If plans are incomplete or additfonal informatfon is required, it may extend the plan review process. Who is responsible to obtain the permit? The person who submits applicatfon for permit is responsible for completfng the work correctly. When using a licensed contractor, the contractor submits applicatfon for permit on behalf of the homeowner. What are the permit holder responsibilities? • Permit on job site • Approved plans on jobsite • Call for inspectfon • Provide access for inspectfon • Compliance with code How long is a permit valid? Permits expire within 180 days of issuance if no work is started, and no inspectfons have been called in or if work has been suspended for more than 180 days with no inspectfons. How do I schedule an inspection? Contact the city's contracted Building Official, Metro West Inspection Services at 763-479-1720. Additional questions? Contact permits@corcoranmn.gov. 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 8 Fall/Winter 2024 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 afler 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. City Snowplow Policy The Corcoran Public Works and Police Departments, and Hennepin County Public Works would like to cautfon residents that it is unlawful to dump, plow, or push snow from private driveways onto county roads or city streets whether you are plowing your driveway or you have hired someone to remove snow. Snow dumped on highways or street right-of-ways can create a hazard not only for motorists, but also for snowplows. Even heavy snowplows have been ditched and damaged when hitting compacted and frozen snow. The person responsible for depositfng snow on roadways may also be liable in a civil lawsuit if damages or injuries that occur as a result of this actfon. Under Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 160.2715, RIGHT-OF-WAY USE, violatfon of the above statute is a misdemeanor. State law prohibits the plowing, blowing, shoveling or otherwise placing of snow from sidewalks, driveways, and parking lots onto public roadways. The violatfons are considered a misdemeanor, punishable by a maximum $700 fine and/ or 90 days in jail. Through the years this issue has become a bigger concern as the community grows. The Corcoran Public Works and Police Departments will be enforcing these laws. Public Works Firearms Safety Class Watch for dates and tfmes for the 2025 Spring Corcoran Firearms Safety classes. This is for the classroom format only; not suitable for online students. Four basic rules of firearms handling: • Treat each firearm as if it is loaded. • Always control the muzzle of your firearm. • Be sure of your target and what is beyond. • Keep your finger off the trigger and outside the trigger guard untfl ready to shoot. Students must be 12 years old before November 1, 2025 to be eligible to take the class. For updated informatfon on registratfon dates, and locatfon(s) visit www.corcoranmn.gov — Public Services > Police > Training and Safety > Youth Firearm Safety Training. • Page 9 Fall/Winter 2024 Public Safety www.corcoranmn.gov Fire Department Information The City of Corcoran contracts with the West Suburban Fire District (Formerly Loretto), the Rogers Fire Department, and the Hanover Fire Department for fire protectfon services for Corcoran residents. To view the Corcoran map that includes fire department boundaries visit www.corcoranmn.gov — Public Services > Fire > Fire Protectfon Services. 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 City Burn Permits The City burn permits are online now for residents to apply for a burn permit. Once you have completed your applicatfon, your burn permit will be sent via email and may look like a receipt (See example below). Contact the Police Administratfve Office at 763-420-8966, press 0, with any questfons. In-person burn permits are stfll available during business hours only. To apply for a burn permit or for additfonal informatfon visit www.corcoranmn.gov — Public Services > Police > Burning Regulatfons/Permits > Burning Permits & Guidelines. Burn permits will contfnue to be required unless there is three inches or more snow cover around your burn site and are required for any fires larger than three- feet diameter by three-feet in height. Anything smaller than a three-foot by three- foot fire must be a recreatfonal fire. Under normal conditfons, burn permits can be purchased for either one-month burn period ($10) or six-month burn period ($50). Any landowner or resident in Corcoran that does not have a burn permit for a controlled burn or bonfire can be cited or fined. Items approved to burn: vegetatfve material, such as grass, leaves, brush and untreated lumber. Items not approved to burn: hazardous wastes, demolitfon debris, motor vehicles, oils, rubber, plastfcs, chemically-treated materials, sheet rock, paint, garbage, and debris castoff from businesses. You can find the complete list on the city’s website or on the MN DNR’s website at www.dnr.state.mn.us/ forestry/fire. If you require informatfon on alternatfve methods of disposal of vegetatfve materials contact the Maple Grove Yard Waste Drop-Off Site at 763-420-4886 or visit www.mgyardwaste.com. Parking Regulations Parking is prohibited on any public street between the hours of 1:00 AM and 7:00 AM 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. Snowmobile Safety and Training Sponsored by the Northwest Trail Associatfon The Northwest Trails Associatfon is an organizatfon of enthusiastfc and committed snowmobilers in Hennepin County and the NW suburbs of Minneapolis. Its mission is to support a safe, adventurous, and friendly snowmobiling experience primarily through coordinatfon, safety educatfon, and club actfvitfes of value to members. To register for the class, go to the NW Trails website at https://nwtrails.net/ safety.htm (space is limited). An online course is required prior to the classroom session. There is a $30 fee for the online course available at www.snowmobilecourse.com. There is a $5 fee due at the tfme of pre- registratfon to reserve a seat. More informatfon will be made available with pre-registratfon. Important Info: Students must bring a copy of their birth certfficate with them and a printout from the online training verifying completfon of the online certfficate to class on November 29, 2024. Partfcipatfon in class will not be allowed if the online course completfon is not confirmed. Classes: Friday, November 29, 2024, from 7 p.m. — 9 p.m. (parents are required to attend) at Immanuel United Methodist Church (10025 County Road 101). Saturday, November 30, 2024, from 9 a.m. — 3 p.m. is the outdoor practfcal course. Snowmobiles will be provided. Questions: Please call Randy Baudler at 763-420-5526 or email at youthsafetytraining@gmail.com Did You Know? All Minnesotans born after December 31, 1976, must have a safety certfficate to operate a snowmobile in the state. If you have a driver’s license, this certfficatfon will be indicated on your license. • Page 10 Fall/Winter 2024 Public Safety www.corcoranmn.gov Address Safety Tips Did you know that firefighters cannot help you if they cannot find you? Here’s safety tfps from the State Fire Marshal’s office about address safety. Maybe this is an item for the “to do” list this week! 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. Luminated address numbers, big and clear, and clear site help save precious seconds in an emergency. • Page 11 Fall/Winter 2024 Corcoran Skating Rinks Corcoran's skatfng rinks are located at City Park (20200 County Road 50, Corcoran, MN) and offer fun and recreatfon for cold weather enthusiasts of all ages. Building and maintaining the rinks depend on many variables. To start making ice, crews need temperatures to be around 0 to –10 degrees Fahrenheit for about one week and approximately four inches of frozen ground. 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. Every year, Public Works aims to open for the season late December, and weather permitting, remain open untfl late February. Depending on weather conditfons, the Public Works crew cleans and resurfaces the rinks daily, Monday through Friday, and weekend mornings (with roads and public safety being first prioritfes). Inclement weather can cause the rinks to be temporarily closed. Rink closings will be reflected on the weather line (763-400-7025). HIRING NOW! The City is looking for ice rink attendants! For more informatfon visit our website at the link below or scan the QR code. Ice Rink Attendants Job Posting: https://www.corcoranmn.gov/ how_do_i/apply_for/employment_volunteer_opportunitfes/ice_rink_attendants Parks and Recreation www.corcoranmn.gov Corcoran Youth Athletics Thank you to all those that partfcipated in Corcoran Parks and Recreatfon programs this year! A special thank you to all those that volunteered to coach. These programs would not be able to run without your willingness to coach and contfnue to grow the partfcipant’s skills! If you’re interested in coaching your child’s team next year, be sure to mark it when registering. Coaches receive 1 player reimbursement per team coached. Important dates for 2025 athletfcs can be found below (subject to change): January 6– 12: Priority registratfon for spring baseball opens (Corcoran residents only) January 13: Registratfon for spring baseball open to all February 24: Spring baseball registratfon closes March 31 – April 6: Priority registratfon for summer soccer opens (Corcoran residents only) April 7: Registratfon for summer soccer open to all April 28: Spring machine pitch baseball begins April 28: Spring t-ball begins April 29: Spring coach pitch baseball begins May 26: Summer soccer registratfon closes June 16: Fall baseball registratfon opens July 8: Summer soccer begins July 21: Fall baseball registratfon closes August 18: Fall t-ball begins August 18: Fall machine pitch begins August 20: Fall coach pitch begins Please note that with the City Park remaster project, some of these dates could be subject to change as the project progresses. More informatfon is antfcipated by the end of the year and can be found through Parks and Trails Commission Meetfng minutes or City Council Meetfng minutes. City Park Remaster Work on the City Park Remaster project has contfnued with approval of hiring of HKGi, a consultfng firm that is helping with the City Park plan. Progress on the City Park Remaster can be followed through Parks and Trails Commission Agenda Packets and City Council Agenda Packets. You can also find the agenda packets by visitfng our website at www.corcoranmn.gov — Our Government > Commissions > Parks and Trails Commission > Agenda Packets or Our Government > Council > Agenda Packets. Garden Club The City of Corcoran has a Garden Club! Filled with local gardening enthusiasts, the Garden Club provides the opportunity to connect with others in the community that enjoy gardening, plantfng, and sharing tfps/tricks! The Garden Club meets to beautffy the Memorial Garden at City Hall, exchange plants, assist with the Tree Giveaway, and plan excursions to the local nurseries. Interested in learning more or taking part in the Garden Club? Reach out to Susan Nelson at susannelson259@gmail.com or check out the Facebook Page at the following link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/216663035408229. Holiday Toy and Food Drive Help us celebrate the holiday season with the annual Holiday Toy and Food Drive on Tuesday, December 10! Register to request your neighbor- hood be included on the route by visitfng www.corcoranmn.gov — Our Community > Events > Corcoran Holiday Toy and Food Drive or by clicking on the following link: Corcoran Holiday Toy and Food Drive. City of Corcoran will be host to a show of holiday cheer in the community, alongside many partner agencies, collectfng unwrapped toys for Toys for Tots and non-perishables for CROSS Food Shelf. As the festfve ve- hicles drive through your neighborhood, come on out and hand-off those items to our holiday elves! For safety, don’t get too close to the “sleighs” – please remain behind curb, shoulder, etc. (New This Year: Ornament Contest — see page 12 for more details) Community St. Thomas The Apostle Catholic Church Turkey Bingo Date: Sunday, November 17, 2024 Time: Noon — 3 p.m. Location: St. Thomas the Apostle Parish Center The St. Thomas Men's Club is hostfng its annual Turkey Bingo event in the Parish Center Dining Hall. Stop by for a chance to win your Thanksgiving turkey! Lunch will be available for purchase before bingo begins. Bring your friends and family for an aflernoon of fun and fellowship! Find more events and St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church informatfon here: https://www.churchofstthomas.org/ • Page 12 Fall/Winter 2024 www.corcoranmn.gov Holiday Toy and Food Drive Ornament Contest (Continued from page 11) NEW THIS YEAR: Help us design a holiday ornament to coincide with the Holiday Toy and Food Drive! Design within the red circle on the ornament below – ages 17 and under. Submissions can be brought to City Hall (8200 County Road 116) during business hours, placed in the black drop box at City Hall’s entrance, or emailed to Jessica, Recreatfon Supervisor (jchristensenbuck@corcoranmn.gov). The deadline for the contest is Sunday, November 3, 2024. Date of event: December 10, 2024 (December 11, 2024 - backup date if inclement weather); More informatfon and route sign up can be found by visitfng www.corcoranmn.gov — Our Community > Events > Corcoran Holiday Toy and Food Drive or by clicking on the following link: Corcoran Holiday Toy and Food Drive. North Hennepin Pioneer Society The North Hennepin Pioneer Society wants to send a special thanks to the Corcoran community. Your support, commitment, and interest in their special one-room school, is so greatly appreciated and made this year’s annual Summerfest fundraiser on August 11, 2024, a huge success. Seeing children playing games, friends sharing laughter and good food, neighbors catching up on family life, plus, newcomers to Corcoran, created a real sense of community. The Society has started repair and reconstructfon work on the bell tower. It will be put back in place before winter approaches. The Society would also like to welcome all who are interested in preserving history to call for more informatfon and/or attend a meetfng. Our winter meetfngs will start Saturday, October 19, 2024, locatfon is stfll to be determined. Contact information: Bonnie (763-639-1438) Dale (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. Bell Tower Quilts for raffle prizes at Summerfest 2024 Community • Page 13 Fall/Winter 2024 www.corcoranmn.gov Hope Community Church Events All events held at Hope Community Church 19951 Oswald Farm Road Corcoran, MN 55374 Miracle Monday Blood Drive Monday, October 21 2 p.m. – 7 p.m. Deb Thompson believed in miracles. Throughout her life she brought joy, kindness, and compassion to everyone she came across, even during the challenges and suffering of breast cancer, leukemia, a stem cell transplant, thyroid cancer, and a second diagnosis of leukemia. Deb gave much to others in her lifetfme. In the end, the gifl of donated blood and platelets gave Deb and her family more tfme together. In recognitfon of the gifls she received, her friends are memorializing Deb with the inaugural Miracle Monday Blood Drive so they can contfnue to bring miracles to the lives of others. Please join us to celebrate Deb’s life and honor her memory by donatfng blood at the inaugural Miracle Monday Blood Drive. SCHEDULE DONATION Go to https://www.mbcherohub.club/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/73873 Enter Sponsor Code: 5069 Or call Emily at 612-986-7515 Ladies Christmas Tea and Boutique Saturday, December 7 1 p.m. — 3 p.m.: Boutfque Shopping and Table Viewing 3 p.m. — 5 p.m.: Christmas Tea All ladies, ages 4 to 104, are cordially invited to attend the 27th Annual Ladies Christmas Tea at Hope Community Church. Come and begin your holiday season in an elegant, festfve setting, enjoying delicious food and beautfful music. You will also have an opportunity to shop at the Holiday Boutfque. This event is filled with Christmas traditfon and much joy! Come early to admire the beautfful tables and shop at the boutfque! General tfcket sales open November 1, 2024 Adults: $20.00 Young Ladies (ages 4-10): $12.00 Tickets sell out early, so don’t wait! Purchase at www.myhopecommunity.com or call 763-494-4673. “Hope Radio Hour” A Festive Evening of Music and Comedy Saturday, December 14 Doors open 6 p.m. // Event begins 6:30 p.m. The 22nd Annual “Hope Radio Hour” is a delightiul night of comedy, laughter, and reflectfon, in celebratfon of the birth of Christ. Enjoy creatfve comedy skits and beautfful musical performances and a dessert intermission. We will be taking an offering to cover the cost of dessert and for the Hope benevolence fund. No RSVP required, just come and enjoy the evening with us. RiverWorks Events Steak Fry & Auction Date: Saturday, October 12, 2024 Where: Rockford Township Hall 3039 Dague Ave SE, Buffalo, MN 55313 Join us for an evening filled with community, and an amazing three-course dinner (appetfzers, an entree of steak or chicken, and dessert) all while raising funds for RiverWorks! What to expect: 5 p.m. appetfzers, silent auctfon, and raftfe begin. •A RiverWorks Update from program directors. •A live auctfon with trips and other experiences. •Fund-A-Need a tfme to raise funds for specific RiverWorks needs. For more informatfon or to purchase tfckets, visit the following link: https://riverworksonline.org/steak-fry/ Crow River Christmas December 7, 2024, is Crow River Christmas! Sponsor a Christmas Tree - For over a decade we have been celebratfng Crow River Christmas and each year the number of trees at the lightfng has contfnued to grow! Through the years this event has grown to include many holiday actfvitfes that concludes with the official tree lightfng and fireworks display at Riverside Park. There are many ways to be involved whether through joining us for the tree lightfng to sponsoring a Christmas tree for your business, family greetfngs, or in memory or honor of loved ones that are displayed in Riverside Park. Crow River Christmas brings people together. More informatfon, visit the RiverWorks Events page at the following link: https://riverworksonline.org/events/ For questfons on the Steak Fry & Auctfon and/or Crow River Christmas 2024 email dkesanen@riverworksonline.org www.corcoranmn.gov Fall/Winter 2024 • Page 14 Environmental Eco-Friendly Fall Lawn Care Tips The way we care for our lawns has a huge impact on the environment and water quality. Partfcularly in the fall, rain washes dead leaves from our yards and streets into storm drains and directly into our lakes and rivers, feeding them with excess nutrients. These nutrients, like phosphorus and nitrogen, increase algae growth, lead to fish kills, and cause reduced water quality. Additfonally, leaf litter carries other toxins and bacteria into our lakes, rivers, and streams. Proper fall lawn care keeps our waters clean, helps pollinators survive winter, and supports a more vigorous spring growing season. Here are three ways to keep leaves out of the street: 1. Raking Raking up your leaves is oflen the simplest solutfon. Bag your leaves afler raking them and put them out for curbside collectfon or bring them to a yard waste drop- off site. Don’t forget to rake the street too, especially around any storm drains! Although many citfes are increasing their street sweeping frequency, it is everyone’s responsibility to rake up leaves as they fall to keep them out of our waterways. 2. Leaf mulching Using a lawn mower to mulch fallen leaves can help add natural fertflizer back into your lawn and keep your grass healthy. Turfgrass is also better able to hold onto the smaller leaf bits so they don’t wash off into storm drains. If done regularly, this is a great optfon to keep your lawn healthy while protectfng water quality. 3. Leaf composting Finally, if you have a backyard compost bin, leaf litter is a source of brown, dry material that balances out any wet, nitrogen-rich food scraps. If you don’t have a backyard compost bin, fall is a great tfme to start! Leaves add carbon into your compost pile to provide energy for the decompositfon process. Compost from your backyard compost pile can be used as a soil amendment or as mulch. Learn more about compostfng in your backyard at hennepin.us/compostfng. Protect our water this fall by raking, mulching, or compostfng the leaves on your property and signing up to adopt a drain near you! Adoptfng a drain in your neighborhood is a simple, low tfme commitment actfon that can make a huge improvement in environmental health. Sign up online at mn.adopt-a-drain.org. Yard Waste Drop Off Site Maple Grove Yard Waste Site 10300 Maple Grove Parkway Maple Grove, MN 55369 763-420-4886 info@mgyardwaste.com Maple Grove, Champlin, Brooklyn Park, Dayton, Brooklyn Center, Crystal, and New Hope residents at no charge. Rogers residents need a City Hall issued permit to dump. General public may have fees — call first for fees. Open Apr 1– Nov 30 Monday- Saturday 8 a.m. — 7 p.m. Sunday 11 a.m. — 7 p.m. For more informatfon, visit: https://www.mgyardwaste.com/ Be Stormwater Smart: Stormwater Smart Steps Source: https://www.epa.gov/npdes/stormwater-smart-outreach-tools#usingmaterials 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. KNOW WHAT’S IN THE FLOW When water flows off our property afler a storm, what's on our lawns, roads, buildings, and parking lots flows with it. The water that doesn't soak into the ground picks up oil, litter, fertflizer, and other unhealthy items along its way that wind up in our rivers, lakes, and streams. Water pollutfon can start on your property in ways you cannot see, but that affect your health and the whole community down- stream. Watching what we put in our storm drains and on our property makes our rivers, lakes, and streams cleaner, healthier, and more enjoyable. And by investfng in solu- tfons to manage stormwater, we help make our community a safer, greener, healthier, and more enjoyable place to live. Creature Feature: Turtle Crossing! (Featured artfcle and images from the Hennepin County Conservation Connection July 2024 Newsletter) With the warm weather, turtles are on the move. Turtles spend the winters sleeping under the mud and ice of ponds and lakes. In the spring and early summer, turtles travel to different ponds and to suitable nestfng sites and can oflen be found crossing the road. Even if they seem far away from water, they know where they are going. If the turtle is not in danger, it is recommended to leave them alone. Only move a turtle off the road if you can do so safely. If you decide to help a turtle, always move the turtle in the directfon it is heading. Do not relocate the turtle to a new area, even if the habitat seems unsuitable. Keep your fingers away from their mouths or claws and wash your hands thoroughly afler handling. Be careful—turtles can be quick and aggressive when scared! Common snapping turtles can be partfcularly challenging to move because of their size and powerful bite. Never lifl a turtle by their tail as this can cause strain and damage to their spine. The best way to pick up a snapping turtle is by the back of their shell. You can also use a car mat, snow shovel, or spare towel to carefully drag the turtle across the road if it is too heavy to lifl. Reed Kottke Hello! My name is Reed, and I am the new Accountant! I started in mid- August and have enjoyed my tfme here thus far. I am excited to be a part of a growing a developing city. I have a Bachelor of Arts in Public Accountfng from Gustavus Adolphus College. I am originally from northern Minnesota but have lived in the Twin Citfes metro area for the past few years. I have worked for the City of Robbinsdale previously as well as Gustavus Adolphus College. In my free tfme I enjoy spending tfme at the lake, trying new restaurants, and seeing live music! If you have any questfons about the financial operatfons of Corcoran, I would be happy to speak with you. Ryan Ganner I am ecstatfc to be on the team here at Corcoran as the Human Resources Generalist. I started in September and have enjoyed my tfme immensely. Prior to joining the team here, I was a Human Resources Business Partner at Dart Transit in Eagan. I have a Bachelor’s degree in History with an Internatfonal Studies Minor from the University of Minnesota Duluth. In my free tfme I enjoy spending tfme with family and friends, playing sports, spending tfme outdoors, and enjoying everything that nature has to offer. I am excited to bring my experience and skill set to the City of Corcoran, and am grateful to be part of this wonderful community. Deb Johnson I am so excited to be a part of the team here at the City of Corcoran as your new City Clerk. I grew up in a small town in Central Minnesota, so Corcoran reminds me so much of that tfme in my life. I am a “neighbor” to Corcoran, living in Plymouth for the past 34 years with my husband and raising our four children. We recently welcomed our first grandchild in July. Our family has enjoyed many of the events around Corcoran especially, the Rodeo each year. My work in city government spans 24 years – previously in the City of Excelsior for three years and the City of Plymouth for 21 years. Each city is unique in its own way and I feel that same can be said about Corcoran. What an excitfng tfme - I am excited to be a part of this growing community and look forward to being a part of all that is to come! It has been one month since joining the team and am enjoying working with staff and meetfng residents. As you know, we are now in the busy electfon season, so I expect to meet many more of you! Don’t forget to VOTE! Karen Heiden I am excited to join the City of Corcoran as Deputy Clerk. Afler 25 years of working with municipal utflitfes I decided to make a change and work for the City of Corcoran. I live in Corcoran in the Bellwether community with my husband, Kim. In my spare tfme I enjoy spending tfme at the lake cabin, visitfng with the neighbors, reading, and growing succulents. I look forward to serving our fast-growing community! Dani Hoffman I am thrilled to announce that I am joining the Corcoran Police Department full tfme. Afler three years as a part-tfme Community Service Officer within the department, I am excited to start the new chapter in my career. In my free tfme, I enjoy outdoor summer concerts and spending quality tfme with my husband and our pugs, Chubbs and Coco. Sam Mahr I am so excited to begin working for the City of Corcoran. I have lived here for the past 16 years, and it is a dream come true to be able serve the community in which I was raised. I recently graduated from the Law Enforcement program at Alexandria Tech, and I am looking forward to putting my educatfon to use. In my free tfme, I enjoy spending tfme with my family and friends (most of them), going fishing (when the boat works), and recently I have developed a liking for running (must be a miracle). I can’t wait to begin building a career with the City of Corcoran. • Page 15 Fall/Winter 2024 www.corcoranmn.gov City of Corcoran Welcomes New Staff Lawns To Legumes (Featured artfcle and images from the Hennepin County Conservation Connection July 2024 Newsletter) Want to BEE part of the change and add pollinator habitat to your yard? Consider applying for Lawns to Legumes. Minnesota residents can be reimbursed for up to $400 in costs associated with establishing natfve plantfngs and pollinator habitat. Applications for spring 2025 projects are open until November 30, 2024. Grant recipients will be notffied in mid-January 2025. Learn more: https://bluethumb.org/lawns- to-legumes/ Organics Recycling Source: https://www.hennepin.us/residents/ recycling-hazardous-waste/organics-recycling Composting the right things You can help ensure success and sustainability of organics recycling programs by putting the right materials in the organics bin. Compost sites need to receive organics with low levels of contamination, or materials that cannot be composted, so they can produce clean, nutrient-rich compost that people want to purchase and use. If you’re unsure, focus on collecting food. Spoiled food and food scraps are the most common material in the trash and the most nutrient-rich material in the composting process, which makes them the most important material to collect for organics recycling. Some of the most important items to keep out of the organics recycling because they cause the biggest contamination issues are: •Glass •Plastic items, including food stickers, utensils, and Styrofoam •Plastic-coated paper items like coffee and soda cups •Fast food wrappers and condiment packets •Uncertified to-go containers and products labeled “biodegradable” without any additional certification •Diapers, sanitary products, and cleaning wipes •Grease or oil If you aren’t sure what to do with an item or are not sure it's compostable, refer to the Hennepin County organics recycling guide at https://www.hennepin.us/residents/ recycling-hazardous-waste/organics-recycling or put it in the trash. 8200 County Road 116 Corcoran, MN 55340 General Information • Page 16 Fall/Winter 2024 City of Corcoran Front Desk — 763-420-2288 Police Department Front Desk — 763-420-8966 Construction Complaints (Outside of constructfon 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 Jon Bottema, Councilor jbottema@corcoranmn.gov Mark Lanterman, Interim Councilor Special electfon — November 5, 2024 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. 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. 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