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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-04 -- Spring-SummerLetter From The Mayor West Metro Water Alliance & Blue Thumb Partnership Plant your spring gardens to support a resilient, pollinator friendly yard! As you prepare your yard, plan your gardens, and get new plants this spring, don’t forget to plant for clean water and pollinators! By using proper yard design and plantfng pollinator-friendly plants, our yards can help filter rainwater where it falls, rather than flowing straight to our water bodies and picking up pollutants along the way. Natfve plants in yards have many benefits like supportfng pollinators and natfve ecosystems, being resilient during flooding and drought, enhancing soil health, providing food for wildlife, and stabilizing land to reduce erosion… just to name a few! While planning natfve gardens may sound dauntfng at first, there are a lot of resources to help you along the way. Blue Thumb is one organizatfon that provides resources and workshops to help people plant for clean water. Check out these resources from Blue Thumb: Where can I buy native plants? Read Blue Thumb’s artfcle on natfve plant sales coming up this spring. Can I get financial support for creating pollinator habitats? Yes! All Minnesota residents are eligible to apply for Lawns to Legumes cost-share funding of up to $400. Where can I learn more about planting for clean water? Blue Thumb has workshops and online learning events coming up this spring! What kind of plants should I use? Look at Blue Thumb’s plant finder to find plants that fit your aesthetfc and are suited to the environmental conditfons of your yard. Spring/Summer 2024 www.corcoranmn.gov State Legislation Impact On City Development Process I wanted to take a moment and make our community aware of some recently proposed legislatfon that I believe would have a detrimental effect on Corcoran residents, as well as other citfes across Minnesota. This legislatfve session saw the introductfon of several development-related bills, including HF 4009, HF 4010, and SF 1370, aiming to reshape the development process by greatly increasing density, removing local decision-making authority and public input, and implementfng smaller lots statewide. Other Provisions Included In These Bills: At the core, these proposals seek to dramatfcally alter the way citfes manage zoning and land use, signaling a shift towards increased density, smaller lot residentfal development without addressing the substantfal cost of the infrastructure needed to support it, leaving the bill for existfng residents and taxpayers to cover. Other key provisions of these bills included: •Eliminatfng local control over city zoning and land use decisions. •Removing the public input process for residentfal development projects and creatfng an administratfve approval process. •Eliminatfng single-family zoning, reducing minimum lot sizes to 4,000 square feet, and reducing setbacks significantly. •Prohibitfng architectural or material design standards and parking requirements. •Mandatfng multffamily developments with up to four to eight tfmes current density on any lots zoned for single-family residentfal (HF 4009 and SF 1370). -After receiving significant pushback from residents, local elected officials, and city advocacy groups, this was amended to permit two units on all single-family lots (doubling density). •Allowing, by right with administratfve approval, multffamily residentfal development on any commercially zoned lot with reduced setbacks with no limit on building height, up to 150 feet, via administratfve approval (HF 4010). -This bill was also amended after pushback to require a small commercial component remain on multffamily residentfal projects in commercial zones. Fortunately, the language prohibitfng height limitatfons was scaled back from the 150-foot standard initfally proposed. -However, many other concerning provisions remain in this bill. •Comprehensive summaries, analysis, and links to the full text of each bill will be updated on the City website in the coming weeks. In the last few days, it appears that several of these proposals (including HF 4009 and many of the provisions included in SF 1370) may not have the support to advance in the House and Senate this session. However, this fight is far from over. The proponents and lobbyists that support these changes are likely to bring back similar, if not identfcal, legislatfon in future sessions. With 2025 being a non-electfon year, if these bills are reintroduced it may be even more important to reach out to legislators and make sure your voice is heard at the capitol. (Letter from mayor continued on page 4) Spring/Summer 2024 Corcoran News Organics Recycling & Elections • 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 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. Cropland Bid Update Council received update with bid closing on March 27, 2024, and presented to Council on March 28, 2024. Dust Control Bid Update Dust control bids were due on April 9, 2024, and are being reviewed. Asphalt/Road Maintenance Bid Update Asphalt/road maintenance bids were due on April 9, 2024, and are being reviewed. Recognition At the March 28, 2024, City Council Meetfng, Clyde Bechtold was honored upon his retfrement, for his 33-year tenure with the Public Works Department, faithfully serving the City of Corcoran. Hennepin County Commissioner Anderson Presentation At the March 14, 2024, City Council Meetfng, Commission Anderson reviewed County budget, projects completed in Corcoran, and noted future pavement rehabilitatfon project on Woodland Trail. Commissioner Anderson noted the recently approved light rail project of $1 billion dollars. Council noted County Roads in need of maintenance and repair and reviewed the number of commuters that travel through Corcoran exceed the light rail riders. Council also discussed the round about intersectfon at County Road 117 and County Road 30. Interim Ordinance Discussion At the March 14, 2024, City Council Meetfng, Council approved an interim ordinance establishing a development moratorium within the rural commercial and transitfonal commercial zoning districts. Stanchion Bar Music and Event Request At the March 14, 2024, City Council Meetfng, Council approved The Stanchion’s request for a band to play untfl 1 a.m. on July 12 and 13, 2024. HKGi Introduction and City Park Concept Plans In November 2023, the City began working with HKGi, more specifically Gabrielle Grinde, Principal. Since then, a comprehensive site analysis of City Park was completed, to gain deeper insights into the current operatfons, previous planning, areas needing improvement, and evaluatfng quality areas of the park. City Park's site analysis involved City and HKGi staff. Following the analysis, City and HKGi staff collaborated to develop concept plans that were included in the March 21, 2024, Parks and Trails Commission Meetfng agenda packet. One notable alteratfon in the proposed plans is the removal of the road going through the middle of the park. This decision was made to create cohesive and actfvatable spaces within the park, enhancing its usability and aesthetfc appeal. Additfonally, amenitfes previously shown in the Wenck concept plan have been incorporated into the updated plans, to integrate past planning with current developments. Staff received feedback on the proposed amenity locatfons and other consideratfons regarding the outlined plans in the agenda packet from the Parks and Trails Commission at the March 21, 2024, meetfng. For information and updates on all of these projects and more visit the City of Corcoran’s website: www.corcoranmn.gov Spring/Summer 2024 Construction & Permits Pages 10-11 Page 12 General Information Page 7 Page 4 Environmental Public Works Public Safety Page 5 Page 9 www.corcoranmn.gov Page 6 Page 8 Community Parks & Recreation • Page 3 Spring/Summer 2024 2024 Corcoran Events Calendar *Meetings may be held by telephone or other electronic means. Visit www.corcoranmn.gov for updates. Apr 4: Planning Commission Meeting 7 pm — Council Chambers Apr 8: Summer Soccer Registration Opens Apr 11: City Council Meeting 7 pm — Council Chambers Apr 18: Parks & Trails Meeting 7 pm — Council Chambers Apr 25: City Council Meeting 7 pm — Council Chambers May 2: Planning Commission Meeting 7 pm — Council Chambers May 9: City Council Meeting 7 pm — Council Chambers May 16: Parks & Trails Meeting 7 pm — Council Chambers May 23: City Council Meeting 7 pm — Council Chambers May 27: Holiday — City Hall Closed Jun 1: Corcoran Lions NPTA Tractor Pull 7 pm — Corcoran Lions Park Jun 6: Planning Commission Meeting 7 pm — Council Chambers Jun 13: City Council Meeting 7 pm — Council Chambers Jun 13-15: Hennepin County Fair Various Hours — Corcoran Lions Park Jun 19: Holiday — City Hall Closed Jun 19: Fall Baseball Registration Opens Jun 20: Parks & Trails Meeting 7 pm — Council Chambers Jun 27: City Council Meeting 7 pm — Council Chambers Subscribe to Future Council Packets Visit www.corcoranmn.gov — Our Government / Council / Agenda Packets and look for the gray BELL icon with Subscribe and follow the prompts. Contact Michelle Friedrich at mfriedrich@corcoranmn.gov with any questfons. 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. Commercial and Industrial Development Standards (Citywide) (City File 23-023) The purpose of this zoning ordinance amendment is to address and evaluate the allowed uses and use specific standards within commercial and industrial developments. The Council adopted a work plan at the November 20, 2023, regular meetfng, and requested the Planning Commission to provide their initfal feedback. The Planning Commission discussed this item at the December 5, 2023, meetfng and expressed their desire Commercial and Industrial Development Standards address a number of items such as: specific architectural standards, infrastructure investment incentfves, encouragement toward sustainable development practfces, proper transitfons of intensitfes and height, the permitted and conditfonal uses of each zoning type, verbiage, and lightfng standards City Staff prepared a survey for current landowners and lessees to express their opinions on items to be addressed with this update. Staff mailed the online survey invitatfon to property owners and tenants whose property is either currently zoned, or guided for Commercial, Industrial, or Mixed-Use. The comment period for this survey closed on January 31, 2024. Staff is reviewing the responses in preparatfon for the draft update to the Commercial and Industrial Standards. At the February 8, 2024, City Council meetfng, staff was directed to prioritfze Rural Commercial (CR) and Transitfonal Rural Commercial (TCR) district updates to be approved by the end of quarter 2. Staff prepared a revised work plan to be reviewed at the March 28, 2024, Council meetfng to reflect the change in directfon. Staff antfcipates a second Planning Commission discussion on April 4, 2024. Feedback from the Planning Commission and Business Community Survey will be shared with the City Council at the April 25, 2024, regular Council meetfng for further directfon. Hope Community Comprehensive Plan Amendment, Rezoning, Preliminary PUD, Preliminary Plat (PIDs 11-119-23-14-0003, 11-119-23-14-0005, 11-119-23- 14-0006, and 11-119-23-11-0012) (City File 23-028). Hope Community Church submitted applicatfon materials for a Preliminary Plat, Preliminary PUD, Rezoning, and Comprehensive Plan Amendment to allow for a mixed-use development around Hope Community Church. The proposed development includes medical offices, retail space, market rate apartments, townhomes, senior villas, and assisted living units. The Planning Commission recommended approval after the public hearing was held for this item during the February 1, 2024, Planning Commission meetfng. During the February 22, 2024, regular Meetfng, the Council voted to approve this item with additfonal conditfons. Tavera 6 Final Plat & Final PUD (PID 35-119-23-11-0003) (City File 23-032). Lennar submitted applicatfon materials for the Final Plat and Final PUD for Tavera 6th Additfon, and staff is reviewing the materials for completeness. Lennar also requests an easement vacatfon from the Drainage & Utflity easement over outlots A, B, C, J and K of Tavera 4, to allow the platting of Tavera 6. This item is complete for City review and has been scheduled for the March 28, 2024, regular City Council meetfng. Woodland Hills Preliminary Plat, Rezone, & Variance (PID 36-119-23-33-0010, 36-119-23- 33-0003, 36-119-23-33-0007) (City File 23-033). Woodland Hills of Corcoran, Inc. & Gonyea Company submitted applicatfon materials for a Preliminary Plat, Rezoning, and a Variance to develop 60 single-family lots on the northeast corner of the Hackamore Road and County Road 116 intersectfon. The proposal is to create 60 detached single-family lots, 1 amenity lot, and 5 outlots on a 36.74-acre site. Council provided informal feedback to the applicant’s concept plan (Northeast Hackamore 116 Concept Plan) during the July 27, 2023, Regular Meetfng. The public hearing for this item was held during the March 12, 2024, Planning Commission meetfng. After some discussion, the Planning Commission recommended approval of the preliminary plat, rezoning, comprehensive plan amendment, and the side-yard setback variance. The Commission recommended denial of the buffer yard variance and the variance from the maximum garage door area. This item has been scheduled for the March 28, 2024, Council 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 ft on the 76.89 -acre parcel. The applicant submitted revised plans which indicate two 128,000 sq ft buildings, and two 168,000 sq ft buildings. This item is expected to be discussed at the May 23, 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. This item is complete for city review and has been scheduled for the March 28, 2024, regular Council meetfng. Land Use Applications and Final Plats www.corcoranmn.gov • Page 4 Spring/Summer 2024 Letter From The Mayor (Continued from front cover) Additfonally, one bill that stfll may be considered this session would require citfes to permit multffamily developments by right in various zoning districts, including in all commercial zones. This proposal alone would sideline years of local planning efforts, comprehensive plans, and community input. In Corcoran, we have carefully identffied areas for commercial development to help diversify our tax base and ease the residentfal tax burden. If these sites were to instead develop as unplanned, high density, multffamily residentfal, the increased cost of city services and infrastructure would instead shift the tax burden even further onto our residents. This is a concern for any city, but for communitfes without large existfng commercial tax bases, the impact would be even more significant. This bill also includes language that would prohibit architectural design criteria, parking requirements, and other important standards for multffamily residentfal development. As your mayor, I will contfnue to oppose these far-reaching changes. Ensuring that Corcoran's future aligns with the needs and preferences of our community is a top priority. The City Council and I remain committed to advocatfng for local control, robust public input, and thoughtiul, well- managed city planning. I encourage everyone to stay informed as to what is being discussed at the state legislature. As mentfoned above, we will be adding a page to the city website with additfonal informatfon on these proposals, including links to the full text of the bills and other helpful resources. If similar legislatfon is introduced in future sessions, updated informatfon will be posted there. Please take a few minutes to read through the rest of this newsletter for the latest community news and other important informatfon. For regular updates, make sure to follow the City on Facebook (Facebook.com/CorcoranMN), X (@CorcoranMNCity), and visit the city website (corcoranmn.gov). As always, if you have any questfons, concerns, or would like to discuss anything further – please feel free to reach out to me directly at tmckee@corcoranmn.gov. I look forward to seeing you all this summer! Take care, Tom McKee Environmental www.corcoranmn.gov Land Protection (Featured articles and images from the Hennepin County Conservation Connection Newsletter) Permanent land protection leaves a conservation legacy Conservation easements are a powerful tool for safeguarding natural resources, preserving wildlife habitat, and protecting ecological diversity in Hennepin County. They restrict specific development activities, ensuring that the land's intrinsic value remains intact while allowing landowners to maintain ownership and use of their property. Conservation easements help mitigate the impacts of climate change by protecting areas that store carbon, support resilient ecosystems, minimize habitat fragmentation, and encourage sustainable land use practices. Learn more about how conservation easements can address impacts from climate change on the Climate Action website. A tradition of land protection Since 2018, Hennepin County and the Minnesota Land Trust have been awarded more than $9.3 million from the Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Fund, making possible the addition of more than 360 acres of conservation easements as well as funding restoration projects on protected land. The county recently established a new conservation easement in Minnetrista spanning more than 54 acres of high-quality habitat. This new easement is part of Hennepin County’s effort to establish 6,000 additional acres of conservation easements by 2040 to provide habitat for a diversity of wildlife species, give residents space to connect with nature, and make our communities more resilient to climate change. Get involved If you or someone you know is interested in leaving a legacy of environmental stewardship by establishing a conservation easement, learn more at hennepin.us/land-protection. Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Source: www.pca.state.mn.us/water/municipal-stormwater-ms4 Rain and snow melt run over the abundant impervious surfaces in urbanized areas — roads, sidewalks, driveways, parking lots, roof tops, etc. — and pick up pestfcides, fertflizers, oils, metals, road salt, sediment, trash, and other pollutants and carry them into storm drains. Storm drains discharge directly into lakes rivers, streams, and wetlands, so stormwater runoff is a leading source of water pollutfon. In additfon, stormwater runoff from impervious surfaces travels faster and in larger quantftfes, which results in damage to rivers, streams, and wetlands; destructfon of aquatfc habitats; and elevated pollutant levels reaching surface waters. Impervious surfaces also prevent stormwater from soaking into the ground and recharging groundwater. Local public entftfes that own or operate municipal separate storm sewer systems (MS4) play a key role in preventfng stormwater runoff from harming Minnesota’s valuable water resources. What is an MS4? Source: www.dot.state.mn.us/metro/waterresources/index.html MS4 stands for Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System. MS4 programs are required by the U.S. Environmental Protectfon Agency (EPA) and the Minnesota Pollutfon Control Agency (MPCA) to reduce pollutfon from stormwater to surface waters and groundwater. Municipalitfes with populatfons of 50,000 or greater, smaller designated citfes such as Corcoran, and other public entftfes with significant stormwater drainage systems have been selected to have MS4 programs. High-quality habitat in Minnetrista is permanently protected by a conservation easement. Organics recycling is another opportunity to significantly reduce trash. About one-third of what we throw away is organic material, such as food scraps and non-recyclable paper. Recycling Statutes were introduced to Minnesota in the early 2000’s through State legislatfon, with implementatfon of those laws by the Minnesota Pollutfon Control Agency (MPCA) over the last 20 years. Hennepin County amended Ordinance 13 in 2018 to include organic material in the scope of regulated recyclables offering citfes three optfons for compliance: 1. The city provides an organic recycling drop-off site for residents to use (only an option for cities less than 10,000). 2. The city contract with a single hauler to provide curbside organics recycling collection for all residents. 3. The city require all haulers to provide curbside organics recycling to residents, when requested. The organics recycling fee may vary from hauler to hauler. In January 2022, to stay in compliance with Hennepin County and the MPCA organics recycling requirements, the city implemented an ordinance requiring all solid waste haulers to be licensed, and a requirement that all solid waste haulers offer organics recycling to residents in Corcoran. At the January 11, 2024, Council meeting, it was brought to staff’s attention community members were billed for organics collection by their solid waste service provider, though residents had not signed up to participate in organics recycling. Staff investigated the issue and learned some customers had requested organics recycling service, and those who did not sign up were charged because of requirements under Minnesota State Statute § 115A.93 subd. 3(c) which states, “A licensing authority shall prohibit mixed municipal solid waste collectors from imposing a greater charge on residents who recycle than on residents who do not recycle”. At the March 28, 2024, Council meeting, Hennepin County Composting and Organics Recycling Specialist Kira Berglund, Alison Cameron from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA), and Matt Herman from Republic presented on organics recycling to help City Council members and residents better understand the requirements of County Ordinance, State Statute, and the expectations of licensed service providers. At the April 11, 2024, Council meeting, a public hearing was held regarding organics recycling. Council reviewed the three options available and directed staff to amend Chapter 117 of City Code, and to establish a citywide organics recycling collection site in order to remain in compliance with the recent state and county requirements. With the amended Chapter 117 of City Code in place, all residents now have an option to recycle their organics at the citywide organics collection site at the north-end of the City Hall parking lot. The amended City Code Chapter 117 offers a temporary exclusion from citywide curbside organics, and removes the requirement for solid waste haulers to offer organics recycling. Once Corcoran reaches a specific population threshold (currently 10,000), solid waste haulers must charge all customers (to comply with Minnesota State Statute § 115A.93 subd. 3(c) which states, “A licensing authority shall prohibit mixed municipal solid waste collectors from imposing a greater charge on residents who recycle than on residents who do not recycle”). City Organics Collection Site Effective May 1, residents may contact the City Hall front office at 763-420-2288 to sign up and begin participating in the organics recycling program. For a list of licensed solid waste haulers, please visit www.corcoranmn.gov. • Page 5 Spring/Summer 2024 Election Information Primary Election Dates Jun 28: Absentee votfng begins Jul 23: Last day to Pre-Register to vote for the Primary (Registration on Election Day available) Aug 10: City Hall open from 10:00 am – 3:00 pm for absentee votfng Aug 12: City Hall open untfl 5:00 pm for in-person absentee votfng Aug 13: Primary Electfon day, polls open from 7:00 am – 8:00 pm General Election Dates Sept 20: Absentee votfng begins Oct 15: Last day to Pre-Register to vote for the Electfon (Registration on Election Day available) Nov 2 and Nov 3: City Hall open from 10:00 am – 3:00 pm for absentee votfng Nov 4: City Hall open untfl 5:00 pm for in-person absentee votfng Nov 5: General Electfon day, polls open from 7:00 am – 8:00 pm For more information on elections contact Michelle Friedrich, City Clerk via email at mfriedrich@corcoranmn.gov or 763-400-7031 or visit sos.state.mn.us/ elections-voting/. To find your polling location visit: https:// pollfinder.sos.state.mn.us/. Council Seat Vacancy A Council seat is open and Council will temporarily appoint an applicant at the April 25 Council meetfng to serve on the Council through November 30, 2024 during the interim period. Interested residents should submit a council applicatfon for consideratfon for the interim Council seat through April 24, 2024, by visitfng www.corcoranmn.gov. A special electfon will be held on November 5, 2024, to fill the remaining term of 2 years for the vacant seat. Residents interested in running for the vacant seat in the Special Electfon will need to complete an affidavit of candidacy July 30-August 13, 2024, at Corcoran City Hall. Please contact City Clerk Michelle Friedrich at mfriedrich@corcoranmn.gov with any questfons. www.corcoranmn.gov Organics Recycling In Corcoran Most Requested Building Permit Fees Reroof or Reside $91/ea. Windows/Doors (same openings) $91 Furnace or A/C Unit Replacement $76/unit Gas Fireplace $76 General Plumbing $51+ Water Heater or Water Softener $36/unit Water Softener Replacement $36 *All the above fees include a $1 State Surcharge. 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 Construction Services Inspections Construction Services www.corcoranmn.gov Spring/Summer 2024 • Page 6 Can I build an accessory structure on my property? A building permit is required for accessory structures over 200 square feet in size. The maximum size allowed is dependent on your property size. Although overall structure height is a factor, the City of Corcoran also measures the sidewall height. This is the distance measured from the bottom of the eave to the ground. In the front or side yard, there is a ten foot maximum sidewall height; in the rear yard it is 13 feet 6 inch maximum. On propertfes less than two acres, the finish materials must be of a residentfal style/type (i.e. no metal standing seam siding/pole barn siding) and the structure must meet all setbacks. *Other regulations may be applicable based on Zoning District. Requirements for size, height, setbacks and architectural standards can be found in the City Zoning Ordinance, Title X, Sec. 1030.020 or by contacting the Planning & Zoning Department. Accessory structure permit submittal requirements • Online permit applicatfon • Proposed constructfon plans showing design, materials, and scale • Certfficate of Survey indicatfng the locatfon of the structure; • Or site plan, allowing the proposed structure meets all the required setbacks by at least two tfmes. Site plan must be drawn to scale and indicate the lot dimensions, the locatfon and ground coverage area of existfng structures and the locatfon and area of the proposed structure as well as the setbacks from all property lines. Construction plans must include • Overhead and Elevatfon • Size of building • Sidewall and overall height • Foundatfon and Footfngs (size, depth, reinforcement, anchor bolts, etc.) • Framing: including walls, headers, trusses/rafters, etc. (lumber type, size, spacing, specificatfons, etc.) and finish materials (roofing, siding, etc.) Note: metal roofing/siding requires a Certificate of Compliance. Certificate of Survey / Site Plan must include • Size and locatfon of all existfng structures, septfc sites, wells, etc. • Size and locatfon of proposed building • Distances to property lines (setbacks) including: sides, rear, and front • Provide scale For additional information view the accessory structure handout at https://www.corcoranmn.gov/public_services/construction_services___inspections/ permit_checklists_and_supplements Apply for permit at www.corcoranmn.gov — Building Permits. Pictured: Accessory structure setbacks in UR and RR districts in Corcoran. Construction Services (Continued from page 6) Spring Burning Restrictions Effectfve March 18, 2024, spring burning restrictfons are in effect for Anoka, Chisago, Hennepin, Isantf, Ramsey, and Washington countfes. Burning permits for bush or yard waste will be restricted untfl further notfce. Spring burn restrictfons typically begin two weeks after the snow melts and remain in place untfl summer green-up occurs. For Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) issued burn restrictfons visit www.dnr.state.mn.us/ forestry/fire/fireratfng_restrictfons.html. For additfonal city burn permit guidelines visit City of Corcoran Burning Permits & Guidelines. • Page 7 Spring/Summer 2024 Public Safety www.corcoranmn.gov Land Disturbance and Grading Projects A land disturbance is defined as any disturbance to the land that results in a change of the existfng soil cover, both vegetatfve and nonvegetatfve, creates bare soil, alters hydrology, or may cause erosion or sedimentatfon. Such actfvitfes include, but are not limited to; clearing, stripping, grubbing, excavatfng, filling, grading, logging, storing of materials, adding, or expanding a driveway, and the constructfon of any structure. Pursuant to City Ordinances, Chapter 54, a permit is required prior to commencing any land disturbance actfvity. There are very few exemptfons, so it is a good idea to check with the Constructfon Services Department when planning your project. Permit requirements and online submittal informatfon can be found at City of Corcoran Land Disturbance and Grading Permits. Email permits@corcoranmn.gov with any questfons. Escrow Most land disturbance and grading projects will require financial security in the form of a cash escrow. The escrow is a refundable security that will be held untfl the project is compete and permanent erosion control (vegetatfon) is established. The minimum escrow required for a land disturbance actfvity is $1,000 but may be higher depending on the size and complexity of the project. Burning Permit To apply for a burn permit, you can do so online on the City’s website at the following link City of Corcoran Burning Permits & Guidelines The permits are issued once payment has been received and will be sent to your email address. In-person burn permits are issued at the Police Administratfve Office during business hours only. Burn permits 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 a one month period ($10) or a six month period ($50). Any landowner or resident in Corcoran that does not have a burn permit for a controlled burn or bonfire can be cited and 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 information on alternative methods of disposal of vegetative materials contact the Maple Grove Yard Waste Drop-Off Site at 763-420-4886 or visit www.mgyardwaste.com. Fire Department Information The City of Corcoran contracts with the West Surburban 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 City of Corcoran Fire Protectfon Services Corcoran Police Administrative Office 763-420-8966 Office Hours 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM, M, T, W, F 7:30 AM - 8:00 PM, Thurs. Non-Emergency: 952-258-5321 FOR EMERGENCIES DIAL 911 • Page 8 Spring/Summer 2024 Corcoran Clean Up Day 2024 The City of Corcoran’s annual Clean Up Day is scheduled for Saturday, May 4, 2024, from 8:00 am — noon, at the Public Works Facility, 9100 County Road 19, Corcoran, MN. Materials not accepted: household garbage, paint, chemicals, oil, flammable liquids, disposable propane tanks, or other household hazardous waste materials, needles, sharps, yard and tree waste, and other organic materials. Hennepin County offers drop-off facilitfes in Brooklyn Park and Bloomington for recycling and hazardous waste materials disposal. Email environment@hennepin.us, call 612-348- 3777, or visit www.hennepin.us/residents/recycling-hazardous-waste/ drop-off- facilitfes for more informatfon. NOTE: Please be patfent as you may experience a short wait. *You may complete the price list before arrival. This can be found by visiting our website at the following link Corcoran Clean Up Day 2024. Staff will verify quantities and determine total amount due. www.corcoranmn.gov Public Works How often do I need my septic pumped? Septfc tanks must be periodically cleaned (pumped) to remove floatfng scum and sludge that accumulate. If either floatfng scum or sludge is allowed to enter the soil treatment system (drain field) it will cause expensive and often irreparable damage. How often to clean a septfc tank depends on its size, use, and operatfng conditfon. A typical household will calculate a cleaning frequency of one to three years. A septfc tank in a northern climate will need to have the solids removed more often than a tank farther south. This is primarily because the cooler temperatures inhibit bacterial actfon and provide less decompositfon of the sewage solids. A constant foul odor, slow drains, and drains that back up are all signs your septfc tank needs pumping. Contact a qualified septfc system professional from the local yellow pages for additfonal advice. Selling a property with a septic system In Hennepin County, selling your home doesn't require a septfc system inspectfon. By state law you must properly disclose to the buyer informatfon about the septfc system. A well-informed buyer will want a thorough inspectfon and many lenders require a compliance inspectfon before they issue a mortgage. Contact Hennepin County for septic system questions Hennepin County regulates most septfc systems in the county including inspectfons and enforcement. The program protects ground and surface water and prevents waterborne illness. Contact 612-543-5200 or epi-envhlth@hennepin.us. • Page 9 Spring/Summer 2024 Country Daze Bean Bag Tournament The NW Area Jaycees will be running the 5th annual bean bag tournament this year. Teams will pay $40 to play in this double eliminatfon tournament to win CASH prizes. Cash prizes are determined by number of registered teams. Registratfon will open on Monday, June 17 at 8 a.m. and close on Thursday, August 15 at 11:59 p.m. The tournament is limited to 16 teams, so be sure to register early! For more informatfon or to register, visit www.corcoranmn.gov. Parks and Recreation www.corcoranmn.gov Field and Park Shelter Rentals Available City Park is a wonderful spot to host your next graduatfon party, birthday party, etc. With a park shelter, softball fields, tennis and volleyball courts, your next gathering is sure to be a hit! The City of Corcoran is acceptfng reservatfons for the 2024 season. Park/Pavilion Rental Fees Pavilion ……………………………......… $100 (per use/per day) Ballfields/Soccer Fields…………….$22/hr. (2 hour minimum) Lions Field………………………….…….$22/hr. (2 hour minimum) (Addl. $30.00 per game for lights) Tennis Courts………...….……………. $15 (All courts — 2 hour usage) Volleyball Court ………….. ………….. $15 (2 hour usage) For more informatfon visit https://www.corcoranmn.gov/public_services/ parks_and_recreatfon/park_shelter_ball_fields The City of Corcoran is encouraging residents to take part in the Step to it Challenge! Step to it is a family -friendly actfvity challenge that motfvates people of all ages and abilitfes to become more physically actfve from May 1 – 28. Registratfon begins April 1 and can be found at www.steptoit.org. The most actfve communitfes, individuals, and worksites are recognized and awarded with prizes. Fall Baseball Registration – Open SOON! It’s tfme to start thinking about fall baseball! Registratfon opens to all on June 17, and runs through July 21 (or untfl filled), and can be completed online. Bats, game balls, and helmets will be provided. Kids should bring their own gloves and labeled water bottles. Registratfon will be available for t-ball (4-5 years old), coach pitch (6-7 years old), and machine pitch (8-10 years old). The season runs approximately 5 weeks from mid- August through late September with no games or practfces on Labor Day. Volunteer coaches are needed – if interested, be sure to mark that on your child’s registratfon! Volunteer coaches receive 1 registratfon refund at the end of the season. For more informatfon or to register, visit www.corcoranmn.gov. T-ball takes place on Monday nights, coach pitch takes place on Wednesday nights, and machine pitch takes place on Monday and Wednesday nights. Summer Soccer Registration Residents of Corcoran receive priority registratfon opening on Monday, April 1 at 8:00 am and runs through Sunday, April 7. Online priority registratfon will require residents to use the password “Soccer” to begin the registratfon process. Registratfon opens to all on Monday, April 8, at 8:00 am and runs through Monday, May 27 (or untfl filled). The soccer season will run from Thursday, July 6, to August 17-26, depending on the weather. Players are expected to bring shin guards, a practfce ball (U6/U8: Size 3 ball; U10/U12 size 4 ball), and a labeled water bottle to each night. Volunteer coaches are needed – if interested, be sure to mark that on your child’s registratfon! Volunteer coaches receive 1 registratfon refund at the end of the season. Additfonal informatfon and registratfon can be found on the City of Corcoran’s website at www.corcoranmn.gov. Corcoran Lions NTPA Tractor Pull June 1, 2024 Meet us in the stands to feel the rumble beneath your feet and witness the awe- inspiring spectacle of our memorable tractor pull event! Location Corcoran Lions Park Gates Open: 5:00 pm Tractor Pull Begins: 7:00 pm Admission $20 (12 years and older) $5 (5 to 11 years old) FREE (0 to 4 years old) Additional Details FREE Parking ATM on-site (cash only) NO coolers allowed For more informatfon visit https://www.corcoranlions.org/ Hennepin County Fair June 13-15, 2024 Come and enjoy the Hennepin County Fair, as we acknowledge 171 years of the Hennepin County Agricultural Society (the governing body of the Hennepin County Fair). The fair will have the Zuhrah Shriner's back with their food optfons, as well as J & K Amusements too. Zuhrah Shriner's will be featuring their famous pork chops and so much more! J & K will be featuring the traditfonal fair foods such as mini donuts, corn dogs, cotton candy, and more. J & K will also be bringing their amusement rides once again. Located at the Corcoran Lions Park, the Hennepin County Fair provides family fun entertainment with carnival rides, games, and much more. For more informatfon visit https://www.hennepincountyfair.com/ Community • Page 10 Spring/Summer 2024 www.corcoranmn.gov The Corcoran Lions are excited to offer the 36th annual scholarship program. Each year it is a great opportunity to be able to help local youth with the opportunity to further their educatfon. As in years past, the basic rules remain the same and are included below. The scholarship applicatfons due date is April 12, 2024. Award Ceremony will be held on Tuesday, May 7, 2024 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 host the 15th annual Bill Schalo Scholarship. Bill’s Scholarship is given based on community service within the community of Corcoran. This scholarship is given in memory of a fellow Lions 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 application deadline is April 12, 2024 along with a transcript of their grades. Applicatfons can be found on the Corcoran Lions website at www.corcoranlions.org or at the following high school offices: Buffalo, Delano, Maple Grove, Mayer Lutheran, Osseo, Rockford, Wayzata, Providence Academy, and West Lutheran High School. If a student attends a 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. 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 membership and promote events held at the Corcoran Lions Park. The 2024 Lions members are looking forward to hostfng events at the Corcoran Lions Park this summer. Corcoran Lions Scholarship Program For questions, please contact: Mr. Jerry Cain jerryjcain@gmail.com Mail Forms to: Lion Jerry Cain 22835 County Road 10 Rogers, MN 55374 North Hennepin Pioneer Society Update The floor foundatfon reconstructfon is almost complete. The NH Pioneer Society is waitfng for warm weather to finish the flooring. After 130 years a stronger floor foundatfon was needed. The project is antfcipated to be completed before children visit again for tours in May. Any donatfons will help with the school maintenance and repairs! Jot down May 11, 2024, for our special program by Megan Brakob Narvey. Ms. Brakob Narvey hails from the Minnesota Historical Society and has offered her services and knowledge on preserving items of art, heirlooms, and things we value. Learn about the “Ten agents of deterioratfon” and how to preserve and protect your family’s memorabilia. The program is scheduled at Hanover City Hall on May 11, from 9:00 am to 11:30 am. Summerfest is back! Please include August 11, 2024, on your calendars! A new food wagon, music, games for kids, face painter, and the school will be open for a visit during Summerfest! Bring the family out and join us from noon-4:30 pm. NHPS is a 401©3 non-profit organizatfon. Interested in becoming a member? Annual membership is $15 per person or $25 per household. For informatfon, please contact Bonnie at 763-639-1438 or Verneal at 763-498-8677, or via email corcoranschool1894@gmail.com. July 11-14, 2024 Mark your calendars for the 2024 Hamel Rodeo taking place at Corcoran Lions Park July 11-14. Come out and enjoy five actfon -packed performances featuring bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, tfe down roping, steer wrestling, team roping, barrel racing, and the spine-tfngling Bull Ridin’ Bonanza...PLUS a specialty act featuring Tomas Garcilazo. For more informatfon visit https://www.hamelrodeo.org/. Corcoran Country Daze August 16-17, 2024 The 20th Annual Country Daze takes place August 11-12, 2023 at Corcoran Lions Park. There will be plenty of free family fun on Saturday and bands will play Friday and Saturday night. Country Daze is an annual family favorite event in Corcoran! For more informatfon visit https://corcorancountrydaze.org/ 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). Community • Page 11 Spring/Summer 2024 www.corcoranmn.gov Hope Community Church Estate Planning Seminar Hope Community Church (County Roads 30 & 116) has been actfve in the Corcoran community since it was founded in 1997. One of the key ways they serve is through community events such as family friendly festfvals, special seminars, comedy nights, and Christmas events. Here is an opportunity coming up that they invite you to be a part of. A FOND FAREWELL: Estate Planning Seminar Seminar on Innovatfve, Creatfve, and Proper Funeral Pre-Planning TAUGHT BY JEANNE R. MCGILL CSA CPC Saturday, April 20, 10 a.m. - Noon Hope Community Church 19951 Oswald Farm Road, Corcoran Do you have a desire to PROTECT your loved ones from great emotfonal stress, trauma and being thrown into situatfons they know nothing about? Do you want to be remembered as a person that gave wonderful gifts? If you could ease the pain and agony of someone having to make a lot of decisions about YOU and YOUR desires without you being there, would you be willing to help? Statfstfcs show that 70% of us are unprepared in one or more areas of personal responsibility in planning. Don't be counted as one of those statfstfcs! This seminar will give optfons as to what you NEED for funeral arrangements, detail new laws about what you CAN do for funeral arrangements at HOME, and explain how to compare apples to apples when comparing costs. Do you have to even use a funeral home? Come and be educated about Innovatfve, Creatfve and Proper Funeral Pre-Planning. Plan Ahead, THINK outside the Box! Come and learn how to give the GIFT of funeral pre-planning. This seminar is free and open to the public. RiverWorks Thousand Hearts Serve Day Sharing love and faith by gathering and serving in our communities to address Health, Habitation, and Hunger. Thousand Hearts Serve Day was established in 2012 and has been a launching point for community development work. Thousand Hearts 365 was then created because of the communitfes desire to give back and serve our community year- round. May 18, 2024, will be our 12th Annual Thousand Hearts Serve Day! Please join us to help celebrate 12 years of service to our communities by joining others to work at sites such as Elmwood Cemetery, the Ames-Florida-Stork House and Rockford Schools. Most projects are family-friendly. For more informatfon on the Thousand Hearts program, the RiverWorks organizatfon, and/or to sign up to partfcipate in the 12th Annual Thousand Hearts Serve Day, visit the following link: https://riverworksonline.org/. 8200 County Road 116 Corcoran, MN 55340 PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID ROGERS, MN PERMIT NO. 98 General Information • Page 12 Spring/Summer 2024 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 Jon Bottema, Councilor jbottema@corcoranmn.gov Seat Vacancy, Councilor Special election — 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. City of Corcoran Welcomes New Staff I am excited to be joining the City of Corcoran as the Public Works Administratfve Assistant! I began working in this role last October and have enjoyed getting to know the City of Corcoran. I have a degree in Studio Art with a minor in Business Administratfon. I grew up in Memphis, Tennessee, and moved to the Twin Citfes from St. Pete, Florida in 2019. I most recently worked for the City of Hopkins as the Actfvity Center Admin Receptfonist. In my free tfme I enjoy making pottery, reading, and spending tfme with my family. I look forward to serving our expanding community. www.corcoranmn.gov Connect with Corcoran facebook.com/CorcoranMN facebook.com/CorcoranPDMN @CorcoranMNCity @CorcoranPolice Search: City of Corcoran Minnesota 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. Kelsey Meer