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Home My WebLink About2022-01 -- Winter-SpringWinter/Spring 2022 www.corcoranmn.gov CORCORAN NEWS Winter/Spring 2022 Assessor’s Office The City of Corcoran contracts with Hennepin County to provide assessing authority. Contact information: Property values and assessments: Melissa Potter, Assessor 612-348-3046 or melissa.potter@hennepin.us Homestead classification: Michelle Lambert-Thurber 612-348-2943 or michelle.lambert@hennepin.us Property tax information: 612-348-6011 or taxinfo@hennepin.us Construction Hours Change Starting January 1, all construction related activity, including idling of equipment, is limited to 8 am – 7 pm, Monday through Friday. On weekends and federal holidays, the hours are limited to 8 am – 4 pm. Individual property owners completing their own projects will be able to request extended hours of 7 am – 10 pm, Monday through Friday, and 8 am – 8 pm on weekends and holidays. Contact Natalie Davis McKeown, Planner at ndavis@corcoranmn.gov or 763-258-4272 with any questions. Connect with Corcoran facebook.com/CorcoranMN facebook.com/CorcoranPDMN @CorcoranMNCity @CorcoranPolice Search: City of Corcoran Minnesota 2022 — The Year Ahead 2021 was a big year for the city of Corcoran. A record number of building permits were issued at just over 1100, which included 297 new home construction permits. We continued water supply planning drilling test wells and began looking at options for water storage. Fire service planning culminated in the adoption of a four-year fire service work plan. Two paving projects were completed in the Appaloosa Woods Neighborhood and the Corcoran Trail East/West Neighborhood, our first paving projects in more than 30 years. These are just a few of the highlights of the many projects and activities that were worked on in 2021. 2022 brings a new year with new opportunities. Below are a few of the many upcoming items the city will be working on in the next year. Water Supply Planning The City is continuing plan for water service in the Northeast portion of Corcoran. A water treatment facility and water storage site and options are the next items being reviewed. Software Updates – Full Size Utility Bills, Online Permitting, Paperless Billing The City is implementing new software to create efficiencies from many of the manual processes we have today. We will see new full sized paper utility bills, online building permitting processes, and paperless billing options for water and sewer. Park Planning Park planning for City Park is continuing, as we gather input for the first phase of the City Park Master plan. A boardwalk is being planned for the Bellwether neighborhood as part of the development. Northeast Corcoran Land Use Planning Through a grant program the city has begun further planning for the Northeast District of Corcoran. We are seeking input from the Community. Currently there is an online survey at https://tinyurl.com/Northeast-District and details on an open house are included within. Primary and General Elections The City will be hosting the state-wide primary election on Tuesday, August 9 and general election on Tuesday, November 8. Feel free to contact the City Council or myself with comments or questions. I can be reached at 763-400-7029 or jbeise@corcoranmn.gov. Enjoy the new year! Jessica Beise Interim City Administrator/Administrative Services Director YOUR FEEDBACK IS NEEDED! Northeast District Corridor Planning Open House & Workshop See page 3 for more info. REMINDER: Minnesota law prohibits plowing, blowing, shoveling or otherwise placing snow on to public roads or sidewalks. This includes ditches and the right-of-way along roads. See page 9 for additional info. • Page 2 Winter/Spring 2022 www.corcoranmn.gov Page 6 Parks & Recreation Environmental Page 11 City Information Page 12 General Information Land Use & Permits Public Works Page 9 Public Safety Page 5 Property Tax Info Page 10 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. Staff Related Updates • Accepted the resignation of City Administrator Martens and selected the executive search firm, David Drown and Associates to complete the City Administrator search process; appointed Jessica Beise as Interim City Administrator. • Directed staff to implement the Compensation Structure Amendment proposal. • Approved the 2022 Benefits and Wage Schedule. • Authorized the Director of Public Safety to attend the FBI National Academy in 2022. • Authorized staff to add one full-time police officer position in 2022 and begin the recruitment process. • Moved forward with phase one of the Public Works reorganization that was presented in July. Corcoran Trail East/West Improvement Project • Continued the assessment hearing; approved the assessment roll resolution. Final Plat and Final Planned Unit Development (PUD) Plan for “Amberly 1st Addition” and “Bellwether 6th Addition” • Approved the final plat as presented which includes an additional 62 lots in Bellwether and 25 lots in the new Amberly development. Zoning Amendment for Assembly Uses • Directed staff to proceed with performance standards and held the public hearing; adopted the zoning ordinance amendment. 2022 Budgets, Levies, Fees, Finances, and Special Assessments • Held a public hearing for delinquent fees; certified delinquent fees to the Hennepin County Auditor for collection in 2022. • Adopted the 2022 Fee Schedule with a minor amendment related to the recycling fee. • Presented the 2022 Budget and Property Tax Levy and held the public hearing; adopted the final 2022 Budget and Levy. • Adopted the 2022 Water and Sanitary Sewer Budgets. Commission Appointments & Resignations • Appointed Corinne Brummond and Jay Van Den Einde to the Planning Commission. • Accepted the resignation of Meredith Wu from the Planning Commission; approved the resolution honoring Meredith for her years of service. Rezoning, Site Plan, Conditional Use Permit, Variance, and Preliminary Plat for Garages Too • Approved the items for the proposed four new buildings as part of a mini-storage facility at 2240 Hwy 55. Planned Unit Development Amendment for “Tavera” • Approved the amendment to allow additional stockpiles with no building permits being allowed until the project complies. Firearm Ordinance Update • Selected a sub-committee to work with staff on draft ordinance amendments. City Park Master Plan • Directed staff to proceed with seeking additional funds and public input. Preliminary Plat and Variance Application for Skies Limit LLC “Bechtold Farm” at 10165 Bechtold Road • Approved the items with an amendment to the park dedication trail requirement; this development is for 12 single family homes off of Bechtold Road. Page 4 Page 8 •Page 3Winter/Spring 2022 www.corcoranmn.gov City Updates Continued... Site Plan, Conditional Use Permit, and Preliminary Plat for Saint Therese Communities at 8200 County Road 116 •Approved the application with an amendment to architectural standards; the project upon final approval will include 99 independent living units, 53 assisted living units (20 of which are for memory care), 54 skilled nursing rooms, and accessory uses including fitness center, salon, bistro, and amphitheater. Concept Plan for Corcoran Highway 55 Business Park •Reviewed a concept for a proposed light industrial project on 55 acres near Pioneer Trail and Hwy 55; Council shared initial support for the project which will require an environmental assessment worksheet (EAW) that will study impacts related to the proposed development. Concept Plan for Pulte Hackamore Properties •Reviewed a concept for 45 single family homes and 127 townhomes on property at the northwest corner of Hackamore Road and CR 101; the applicant was provided feedback including a request to reduce the number of townhomes. Early Site Grading Work Agreement — Bellwether/Newman Property •Approved an early site grading agreement for the Newman property on the southwest portion of the Bellwether development. Magnan Acres Preliminary and Final Plat •Approved the preliminary and final plat for a project in which two buildable lots and one unbuildable outlot were changed into two buildable lots. Zwede Wetland Waiver •Approved the wetland waiver for parcel on County Road 50 which may in the future subdivide. Cost Share Agreement with St. Therese •Approved a cost share agreement for the grading and stormwater design for the City Center Drive and 79th Place improvements. 2022 Corcoran Events Calendar *Meetings may be held by telephone or other electronic means. Visit www.corcoranmn.gov for updates. Jan 10: Spring Baseball Priority Registration Opens (Corcoran residents only) Jan 11: Northeast District Planning — Open House (Northeast District landowners) 7 pm — Hope Community Church Jan 13: City Council Meeting 7 pm — Council Chambers Jan 17: Holiday — City Hall Closed Jan 18: Spring Baseball Registration Opens Jan 20: Parks & Trails Meeting 7 pm — Council Chambers Jan 27: City Council Meeting 7 pm — Council Chambers Feb 3: Planning Commission Meeting 7 pm — Council Chambers Feb 10: City Council Meeting 7 pm — Council Chambers Feb 17: Parks & Trails Meeting 7 pm — Council Chambers Feb 21: Holiday — City Hall Closed Feb 24: City Council Meeting 7 pm — Council Chambers Feb 24: Truck Safety Seminar 8 am - 12 pm — Public Works Facility Feb 27: Spring Baseball Registration Closes Mar 3: Planning Commission Meeting 7 pm — Council Chambers Mar 10: City Council Meeting 7 pm — Council Chambers Mar 15: Northeast District Planning — Workshop (Corcoran residents & business owners) 7 pm — Hope Community Church Mar 17: Parks & Trails Meeting 7 pm — Council Chambers Mar 20 & 27: Firearms Safety Classes 6 pm - 9 pm — Location TBD Mar 24: City Council Meeting 7 pm — Council Chambers Apr 3, 10 & 29: Firearms Safety Classes 6 pm - 9 pm — Location TBD Apr 4: Summer Soccer Priority Registration Opens (Corcoran residents only) Apr 7: Planning Commission Meeting 7 pm — Council Chambers Apr 11: Spring Soccer Registration Opens Apr 14: City Council Meeting 7 pm — Council Chambers Northeast District Corridor Planning Planning to update our Northeast District design guidelines is underway! A new City webpage has been created to provide information about the project scope, updates, as well as ways to submit feedback and participate throughout the process. Please visit https://tinyurl.com/Northeast-District for more information. A community survey was posted on the above webpage in mid-December and will be available through January 11. However, please feel free to submit feedback to Natalie Davis McKeown, Planner at any time during the process at ndavis@corcoranmn.gov. The City invites landowners within the Northeast District to an open house scheduled at 7 pm on Tuesday, January 11. All Corcoran residents and business owners are invited to attend the community workshop scheduled Tuesday, March 15 at 7 pm. Both community meetings will take place at Hope Community Church, 19951 Oswald Farm Rd, Corcoran, MN. Additional public meeting dates are posted on the webpage. Stay tuned! •Page 4Winter/Spring 2022 www.corcoranmn.gov Building Permits Building Permit applications can be found online at www.corcoranmn.gov — Permits & Licenses. The City has a number of guidelines and checklist handouts available to help you with the permit process. Completed permit applications and supplemental information can be submitted to permits@corcoranmn.gov. Online permit payment option available. Permit number, total fees due, and online payment information will be provided once permit is approved. Permit will be returned via email after payment is received. The City of Corcoran also accepts cash and check payment for permit applications. Credit card transactions are subject to a convenience fee. Metro West Inspection Services is contracted by the City of Corcoran to conduct plan reviews and inspections. Call 763-479-1720 for building code questions or to schedule an inspection. Requests for a Certificate of Survey can be submitted to permits@corcoranmn.gov. Land Use Applications and Final Plats 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. Request for Rezoning, Site Plan, Conditional Use Permit and Variance for Garages Too, LLC at 224010 Highway 55 (PID 32-119-23-44-0001) (city file 21-016) The applicant has requested approval to allow a mini storage/self-storage facility on the property. Council reviewed a concept plan earlier this year and indicated support. The application was reviewed at a Public Hearing at the August 5 Planning Commission and has been tabled at the Council to allow the applicant to address stormwater issues. The item was approved by Council on November 10. Sign Ordinance Amendment (city file 21-027) Council directed staff to prepare an update to the sign ordinance regarding construction signs and an update to the campaign sign policy. The ordinance was reviewed at the August 26 and September 23 Council meetings and Council approved the change to construction sign ordinance on November 10. No change was made to the campaign sign policy. Final Plat and PUD Final Plan for “Amberley 1st Addition” and “Bellwether 6th Addition” (PID 01-119-23-34-0002) (city file 21-037) The application is for 62 lots in Bellwether 6th and 25 lots in Amberley 1st Addition. The application was reviewed by the Planning Commission on October 14 and approved by Council on October 28. Preliminary Plat and Variance for “Bechtold Farm” at 10165 Bechtold Road (PID 05-119-23 -44- 0001 and 0811923110007) (city file 21-030) Skies Limit LLC has requested approval of a preliminary plat and variance to create 12 lots on 115.61 acres. The variance is to allow a lot with frontage on an unimproved public right-of-way. The item was reviewed by the Parks and Trails Commission on October 21, by the Planning Commission at the November 4 public hearing and Council approved on November 22. Site Plan, Conditional Use Permit and Preliminary Plat for Saint Therese Communities on the property located at 8200 Co Rd No 116 (PID 24-119-23-23-0001) (city file 21-042) St. Therese is requesting approval for a preliminary plat of the city-owned property to create a parcel for the new St. Therese campus with a mix of independent, assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing units. The site plan and conditional use permit for the project will be reviewed with the plat. The application was revised at a public hearing at the November 4 Planning Commission and Council approved at the November 22 meeting. An amendment to allow for a later closing date on the parcel was adopted on the December 22 Council meeting. Zoning Ordinance Amendment for Assembly Uses (city file 21-034) At the June 24 meeting, Council discussed removing assembly uses in low residential zoning districts within the MUSA. Staff was directed to proceed with a Public Hearing. The Planning Commission and City Council reviewed options and provided direction to staff. A public hearing was held at the December 2 Planning Commission meeting and Council adopted the proposed performance standards on December 22. Permit Totals 1116 permits issued in 2021 2020 2021 Total building permits…… 733 875 Single Family: New construction……….. 237 297 Deck/porch…………………. 91 139 Alteration/remodel…….. 22 18 Accessory building………. 13 11 Re-roof……………………….. 246 232 Basement finish………….. 18 42 Total mechanical permits. 97 98 Total plumbing permits…. 109 143 Other Construction Permits Issued 2020 2021 Driveway…………………….. 7 6 Fence………………………….. 6 7 Sign…………………………….. 8 9 Grading & Fill………………. 16 14 Utility………………………….. 81 85 Total Issued Permits 2017—2021 • Page 5 Winter/Spring 2022 www.corcoranmn.gov Property Tax Changes Many factors contribute to your property tax changing from year to year. Property value, your neighbor’s property value, decisions by the City Council, the County Board, your local School Board, and the state legislature can all impact property taxes. The value of your property, the total value of all the property in your community, changes to state programs, and changes in state laws can also affect the tax system and play a role in increasing or decreasing property taxes each year. If you have questions or concerns regarding your property value, taxes or classification contact the Hennepin County Assessor’s Office at 612-348-3046 or assessor.ao@hennepin.us. Why is a property tax levy needed? Only a small portion of the City budget is funded through fees or charges for services. For 2022, the portion funded by fees or charges covers only 29% of the City’s expenditures. The remaining 71% is funded through the property tax levy. 2022 City of Corcoran Tax Levy The City Council adopted its preliminary levy for 2022 at the September 9, 2021 meeting. This levy amount was used to create the City tax amount you saw on your proposed 2022 levies and taxes notice. The City Council adopted a final levy for 2022 at the December 9, 2021 meeting. The adopted final levy of $5,728,847, is a $683,470 or 13.55% increase from the 2021 levy. Despite this increase, the tax rate is projected to decrease slightly from 43.522% to 43.168% due to new construction and increased valuations. Property Tax Info When do I pay my property taxes? Most property owners pay their taxes in two installments — the first half in May and the second half in October. The bi- annual payment occurs even if your property taxes are collected by your mortgage company with your monthly mortgage payment. What do I get for my property taxes? Local governments get the money they use to deliver services from a few different sources: property taxes, fees, revenue sharing with the state, and grants. Property tax dollars pay for the services everyone in the community benefits from and can access, including residents, visitors, commuters, and tourists. This includes services through the City, like streets, street signs, police and fire services, and City parks. Property taxes also cover services through Hennepin County, like county libraries and parks. Also included, are other Hennepin County services such as economic development programs to help businesses grow and develop, and local City services such as snowplowing, road grading and repairs, are all typically paid for with property tax dollars. Who decides what City services to provide? The City Council reviews the services the City currently provides and thinks about what local preferences are and what population trends suggest about the kinds of services people will need. Communities with lots of young families may want to offer different kinds of services than communities seeing a big increase in the number of senior residents. Sometimes cities have to provide certain services to comply with state or federal laws. Some common examples are requirements for testing drinking water and making public buildings accessible to people with disabilities. Homestead Classification Any Minnesota resident purchasing a new or existing home who occupies the home as their primary residence may be eligible for the homestead classification on their property. Classification as a homestead may provide homeowners with property tax savings. Apply to the Hennepin County Assessor’s Office by December 31 to qualify for taxes payable the next year. Where should I apply for homestead? 1. Apply online through the Hennepin County website at www.hennepin.us/homestead. You will need to create an online services account. 2. Mail completed application along with a copy of your deed (including the legal description) to: Hennepin County Assessor, 300 S 6th Street, A-2103, Minneapolis, MN 55487. The Homestead Application form can be found online at www.hennepin.us/residents/property/homestead. For more information or questions regarding Homestead Classification contact Michelle Lambert-Thurber at 612-348-2943 or michelle.lambert@hennepin.us. • Page 6 Winter/Spring 2022 www.corcoranmn.gov Parks & Recreation Baseball Registration — OPEN! It’s time to start thinking about spring baseball! Registration will be available for t-ball (4-5 years old), coach pitch (6-7 years old), and machine pitch (8-10) years old. Residents of Corcoran receive priority registration starting on Monday, January 10 at 8 am through Monday, January 17 at 11:59 pm. Online priority registration will require residents to use the password “Early” to begin the registration process. Registration opens to all on Tuesday, January 18 at 8 am and runs through February 27 (or until filled) and can be completed online at www.corcoranmn.gov — Public Services / Parks and Recreation. The seasons run from late April/early May through the end of June. Registration for machine pitch includes the opportunity to participate in the mid-season jamboree against other teams in the league! Volunteer coaches are needed – if interested, be sure to mark it on your child’s registration! Volunteer coaches receive one registration refund per team coached at the end of the season. Participants are expected to bring their own baseball glove and highly encouraged to bring their own bat and helmet. Summer Soccer Residents of Corcoran receive priority registration starting on Monday, April 4 at 8 am through Sunday, April 10 at 11:59 pm. Online priority registration will require residents to use the password “Priority” to begin the registration process. Registration opens to all on Monday, April 11 and runs through May 30 (or until filled) and can be completed online at www.corcoranmn.gov — Public Services / Parks and Recreation / Soccer Registration and Information. The soccer season will run from Thursday, July 7 to August 18-25 depending on the weather. Volunteer coaches are needed – if interested, be sure to mark it on your child’s registration! Volunteer coaches receive one registration refund at the end of the season. Participants are required to wear shin guards, socks to cover the shin guards, glasses straps for players who wear glasses during play, and should bring a LABELED warm-up soccer ball (U6/U8: Size 3 ball; U10/U12 size 4 ball). Skating Rinks Corcoran's skating rinks offer fun and recreation for cold weather enthusiasts of all ages. Building and maintaining the rinks depends on many variables. To start making ice, crews need temperatures to be around 0 to –10 degrees F for about one week and frozen ground approximately four inches deep. The crews then establish a six-inch base, which will help rinks survive most warm snaps. The final step is to build a smooth “finish surface” on the ice. Corcoran ice rinks are planning to be opened for the season in early January, and weather permitting, will remain open until late February. Depending on weather conditions, the Public Works Department generally cleans and resurfaces the rinks daily between 7 am – 3 pm (roads and public safety are first priorities). If you see the Public Works crew at the rinks, please vacate the rinks and allow them the time and space to complete the cleaning and resurfacing. Inclement weather and lack of staffing can cause the rinks and/or the warming house to be temporarily closed and will be posted on the weather line at 763-400-7025. Those interested in utilizing the rinks are encouraged to call the weather line prior to going to the rinks. Parks and Trails Update The Corcoran Parks and Trails Commission meets on the third Thursday of the month at 7 pm at City Hall unless otherwise posted. The Parks and Trails Commission consists of seven regular members and serves as an advisory board to the council to provide safe, clean parks and open spaces. Park Rules Adjustment Update • Rule adjustments were recommended for approval. Fee Schedule Exemptions Groups • Fee schedule updates recommended for approval. Preliminary Plat and Variance Application for Skies Limit LLC “Bechtold Farm” • Recommended a mixture of land dedication and cash in lieu for the proposed 12 single family home development. Questions regarding Parks & Recreation facilities and programs? Contact: Jessica Christensen Buck, Recreation Supervisor at jchristensenbuck@corcoranmn.gov or 763-400-7034. City Park Remaster The City of Corcoran is working to remaster City Park. We want to hear from YOU on amenities that you’d like to see! Have your voice heard by completing a quick survey online or attending an in- person community input opportunity (date to be determined). • Page 7 Winter/Spring 2022 ww 763-972-3335 • Page 8 Winter/Spring 2022 ww.corcoranmn.gov Corcoran Police Administrative Office: 763-420-8966 Office Hours: 7:30 am - 4:30 pm, M-F Non-Emergency: 952-258-5321 FOR EMERGENCIES DIAL 911 Firearms Safety Training Corcoran Firearms Safety 2022 classes are scheduled for March 20 & 27 and April 3, 10 and 29 from 6 pm — 9pm, location to be determined. The class will conclude with a Firearms Safety Field Day on April 30 from 8 am — 2 pm. Youth ages 11 and older can attend a firearms safety certification course and receive their certification. The Firearms Safety Certificate becomes valid at age 12. For updated information on location(s) and registration dates visit www.corcoranmn.gov — Public Services / Police / Training and Safety / Youth Firearm Safety Training or contact the Corcoran Police Administrative Office at 763-420-8966. Burning Permits To apply for a burn permit visit www.corcoranmn.gov —Public Services / Police / Burning Regulations/ Permits / Burning Permits & Guidelines. Permits will be sent via email once approved. Allow 2-3 business days for online permit payments and 7-10 business days for check or cash permit payments. Contact the Police Administrative Office at 763-420-8966 with any questions. Burn permits are required to burn anything larger than a 3’ x 3’ recreational fire, unless there is three inches of snow on the ground. Public Safety Truck Safety Seminar The Corcoran Police and Public Works Departments will host the 14th Annual Truck Safety Seminar at the Corcoran Public Works facility Thursday, February 24. The seminar will run from 8 am — 12 pm and will cover a multitude of items such as the new commercial vehicle laws for 2022, rules and regulations, vehicle equipment requirements, and much more. Coffee, rolls, and lunch are provided by donations from sponsors. For more information on this free seminar and/or registration date(s) visit www.corcoranmn.gov — Public Services / Police / Training and Safety / Truck Safety Seminar. To get on the email list for seminar information contact Paula at 763-400-7002 or psteelman@corcoranmn.gov. Winter Reminders Parking regulations Parking is prohibited on public streets November 1 through April 1 from 1 am – 7 am and after a snowfall of at least two inches. Parking may not resume until snow has stopped accumulating and the street has been plowed. 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. Any questions in reference to the parking ordinance, please call the police department at 763-420-8966. Fire hydrant clearing While shoveling your driveway, take an extra few minutes to clear a three-foot radius around the hydrant after each snowfall. This will help reduce the time it takes firefighters to hook up hoses if a fire occurs in your neighborhood. Plowing snow onto roads Minnesota State Statute (169.42) prohibit relocating snow and ice from private property (including driveways and parking lots) to a roadway, sidewalk, or adjacent property. Smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms It is important to test your alarms regularly, but it is suggested to test them at least once monthly. If your smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarm has replaceable batteries, they should be changed at least every six months. Although you replace your batteries, smoke and carbon monoxide alarms don’t last forever. Read the manufacturer's use and care booklet for installation and maintenance guidelines. Contact your local fire department with any questions regarding smoke and/or carbon monoxide alarms. Fire Department Non-Emergency Phone Numbers: Hanover Fire Department…………763-498-7518 Loretto Fire Department…………..763-479-3036 Rogers Fire Department…………...763-428-3500 Visit www.corcoranmn.gov — Public Services / Fire / Fire Protection Services • Page 9 Winter/Spring 2022 www.corcoranmn.gov City Snowplow Policy The Corcoran Public Works and Police Departments, and Hennepin County Public Works would like to caution 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 depositing snow on roadways may also be liable in a civil lawsuit if damages or injuries that occur as a result of this action. Under Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 160.2715, RIGHT-OF-WAY USE, violation 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 violations 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 Snow and Ice Control Operations The goal of the Corcoran Public Works Department is to clear snow and ice from city roads as soon as possible. Delays may occur in the event of equipment breakdown or extreme weather conditions. The safety of the public and the City employees is a top priority. Currently the City has over 70 miles of roads and more than 100 cul-de-sacs that are maintained by the Public Works Department. The criteria for the decision to begin snow and/or ice control operations are as follows: • Snow accumulation of two inches or more warrants the plowing of asphalt roads, two to four inches warrants the plowing of both asphalt and gravel roads dependent on road conditions. Call out is normally at 2 am when practical. • High volume major collector roads and roads with steep hills and curves receive first priority. • Safety of the plow operators and the public are important. Therefore snowplowing operations may be terminated after 12 – 14 hours to allow personnel adequate time to rest. High winds creating white out conditions could cause suspension of services until weather improves. The City will assume no responsibility for damage to underground lawn sprinkling systems, exterior lighting systems, and similar landscaping installed in the public right-of-way. To review the City approved policy visit www.corcoranmn.gov — Public Services / Public Works / Snow Plowing. Garbage can driveway location During winter months, please be sure to place garbage containers inside your driveway perimeter or boundary on garbage pickup days. Garbage containers should never be placed on the roadway as they are a traffic hazard and an obstacle to the effective and safe removal of snow and ice in the winter. Mailbox reminder Inspect your existing mailbox post for damage and replace before the winter snowplowing season begins. Ensure your mailbox posts are sturdy, set solidly in the ground, and in good condition before the snow falls. Swing-Away mailbox post option Swing-Away Mailbox Posts are designed to reduce or eliminate damages to mail receptacles during inclement weather. The swing-away posts are constructed of galvanized steel and are designed to meet the Postal regulations and MNDOT’s specifications. An example is currently on display by the main entrance of Corcoran City Hall. Swing-Away Mailbox Posts are available to purchase for $65.00 for the individual product or installed by Corcoran Public Works for $150.00. • Page 10 Winter/Spring 2022 www.corcoranmn.gov Environmental Don’t let your septic system freeze Source: www.pca.state.mn.us — Minnesota Pollution Control Agency The following tips will help keep your septic system warm and happy this winter and prevent the costs and inconveniences that come when elements of a septic system freeze up. • Place a layer of mulch 8 to 12 inches thick over the pipes, tank, and soil treatment system to provide extra insulation. • Use water—the warmer the better—if you’re worried your system is starting to freeze. Do not leave water running all the time—this will overload the septic system. • Going away for an extended period? Have someone use warm water in the home regularly or pump out your tank before leaving. • Fix any leaky plumbing fixtures or appliances in your home. This will help prevent freezing problems and help your system perform better all year. • Keep all vehicle, animal, and people traffic off the system. This is a rule to follow all year as compacted snow and soils cause frost to go down deeper and faster. • Keep an eye on your system. If any seeping or ponding occurs, contact an onsite professional to help determine the cause and remedy. • Add more insulation to your system. This could include replacing pipe with insulated pipe, adding expanded foam panels over septic tanks, or adding more soil cover. Recycling Simplified Source: www.republicservices.com & www.recyclingsimplified.com Follow these simple guidelines to become a better recycler. Working together, we can make sure recyclable materials don’t end up in our lakes and landfills. 1. Know what to recycle Cardboard, paper, glass, metal cans, plastic bottles, and jugs. 2. Empty. Clean. Dry. Keep all recyclables free of food and liquid. 3. Don’t bag it Never put recyclables in containers or bags. Smart salting tips that protect Minnesota waters Source: www.pca.state.mn.us (MPCA) & www.cleanwatermn.org As the first major snow of the season arrives, Minnesotans are thinking about clearing snow and ice from pavement — sometimes with salt. We scatter an estimated 365,000 tons of salt in the metro area each year. But it only takes a teaspoon of salt to permanently pollute five gallons of water. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) recommends a low-salt diet for our lakes, streams, and rivers. Much like table salt, rock salt’s benefits are peppered with danger. Salt helps melt ice on roads and sidewalks and protects drivers and pedestrians. But when the snow melts, de-icing salt, which contains chloride, runs into nearby bodies of water and harms aquatic wildlife. Chloride accumulates in the water over time, and there’s no feasible way to treat or remove it. Our freshwater fish and bugs can't tolerate a salty environment! Do your part by following these simple tips: • Shovel. The more snow and ice you remove manually, the less salt you will have to use and the more effective it can be. • 15 degrees (F) is too cold for salt. Most salts stop working at this temperature. Use sand instead for traction, but remember that sand does not melt ice. • Apply less. More salt does not mean more melting. Use less than four pounds of salt per 1,000 square feet. One pound of salt is approximately a heaping 12-ounce coffee mug. Leave about a three-inch space between granules. • Sweep up extra. If salt or sand is visible on dry pavement it is no longer doing any work and will be washed away. Use this salt or sand somewhere else or throw it away. Organics Recycling Source: www.randysenvironmentalservices.com Organics recycling is an easy way to reduce waste and create a valuable resource that improves soil, reduces soil erosion and decreases the need for chemical fertilizers. Corcoran residents can participate at home with the curbside organics program. To become a Blue Bag Organics household, contact Randy’s Environmental Services at 763-972-3335. Ice Safety For more information visit mndnr.gov/ icesafety. • Page 11 Winter/Spring 2022 www.corcoranmn.gov City of Corcoran Welcomes Staff NW Area Jaycees Scholarships Available Sponsored by: NW Area Jaycees The Northwest Area Jaycees will be awarding up to $15,000 in scholarship monies to graduating senior high school students. All applicants must reside within Corcoran city limits and will be continuing onto their college education during the entire Fall 2022—Spring 2023 school year. Visit www.nwareajaycees.org for more information. Corcoran Lions Scholarship Program Sponsored by: Corcoran Lions The Corcoran Lions are excited to offer their 34th annual scholarship program to graduating seniors who live in the City of Corcoran. The Lions also offer their 13th annual Bill Schalo Scholarship. The Bill Schalo scholarship is given based on community service in Corcoran. For more information visit www.corcoranlions.org or contact Jerry Cain at jerryjcain@gmail.com. City of Corcoran Contact Information City Hall —763-420-2288|Police —763-420-8966|Public Works —763-420-2652 www.corcoranmn.gov Administration Department Jessica Beise Interim City Administrator jbeise@corcoranmn.gov 763-400-7029 Maggie Ung Jodie Peterson Finance Manager Accountant mung@corcoranmn.gov jpeterson@corcoranmn.gov 763-400-7032 612-895-1422 Michelle Friedrich Natalie Davis McKeown Deputy Clerk Planner mfriedrich@corcoranmn.gov ndavis@corcoranmn.gov 763-400-7031 763-258-4272 Jessica Christensen Buck Shawna Zuther Recreation Supervisor Administrative Assistant jchristensenbuck@corcoranmn.gov szuther@corcoranmn.gov 763-400-7034 763-400-7027 Police Department Matt Gottschalk Ryan Burns Paula Steelman Director of Public Safety Lieutenant Public Safety Administrative Mgr. mgottschalk@corcoranmn.gov rburns@corcoranmn.gov psteelman@corcoranmn.gov 763-420-8966 763-420-8966 763-400-7002 Public Works Department Kevin Mattson Pat Meister Mike Pritchard Public Works Director Public Works Supt. Construction Services Coord. kmattson@corcoranmn.gov pmeister@corcoranmn.gov mpritchard@corcoranmn.gov 763-400-7028 763-400-7037 763-400-7033 City Assessor City Planner Building Inspector Hennepin County Assessor Kendra Lindahl, Landform Metro West Inspections 612-348-3046 612-638-0225 763-479-1720 assessor.ao@hennepin.us klindahl@landform.net Homestead Classification Septic Systems Well Management Hennepin County Assessor Hennepin County Public Health MN Dept. of Health 612-348-3046 612-543-5200 651-201-4600 ao.homestead@hennepin.us environment@hennepin.us Hennepin Co. Public Works— Dispatch/Roads Randy’s Recycling 612-596-0299 763-972-3335 Utility Billing Questions: General Inquiries/Concerns: utilitybilling@corcoranmn.gov general@corcoranmn.gov Permit Submission & Survey Requests: Code Enforcement: permits@corcoranmn.gov codeenforcement@corcoranmn.gov Corey Andress joined the Police Dept as a new Sergeant. Abigail Edstrom joined the Police Dept as a new part-time Police Officer. Daniele Monnes joined the Police Dept as a new part- time Community Service Officer. Ryan Swanson joined the Police Dept as a new part- time Community Service Officer. 8200 County Road 116 Corcoran, MN 55340 PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID ROGERS, MN PERMIT NO. 98 General Information • Page 12 www.corcoranmn.gov Winter/Spring 2022 Corcoran News is published quarterly by the City of Corcoran to update residents and businesses on city government news. City Council Tom McKee, Mayor tmckee@corcoranmn.gov Jon Bottema, Councilor jbottema@corcoranmn.gov Alan Schultz, Councilor aschultz@corcoranmn.gov Jeremy Nichols, Councilor jnichols@corcoranmn.gov Dean Vehrenkamp, Councilor dvehrenkamp@corcoranmn.gov Interim City Administrator Jessica Beise 763-400-7029 jbeise@corcoranmn.gov Spring 5-Ton Road Restrictions Road restrictions will be enforced this spring concurrent with MNDOT Metro Region. All Corcoran city streets are five-tons per axle unless otherwise marked. Postings will be lifted per MNDOT Central Region. Visit the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MNDOT) at https:// sll.dot.state.mn.us/research/ seasonal_load_limits/ for more information. City of Corcoran Main Office — 763-420-2288 City of Corcoran meetings can be viewed via video links at www.corcoranmn.gov. Upcoming Meetings City Council Meetings Jan 13 & 27, Feb 10 & 24, Mar 10 & 24, Apr 14 & 28 7 pm Planning Commission Meetings Feb 3, Mar 3 & Apr 7 7 pm Parks & Trails Commission Meetings Jan 20, Feb 17, Mar 17 & Apr 21 7 pm City Website www.corcoranmn.gov Utility Bill Updates Coming soon! Full page 8.5” x 11” utility bills will be coming in March! Visit www.corcoranmn.gov — How do I? / Water and Utility Billing to view a sample bill and for more information. New payment option – coming mid-2022 The City of Corcoran will be switching to InvoiceCloud for all online and direct pay methods. If you are currently enrolled in DirectPay with the city, you will need to re-enroll with InvoiceCloud when this transition is complete. More information coming soon! Payments can still be submitted by cash or check to City Hall. Indoor and outdoor drop boxes are available at City Hall for payment and utility service application drop off. The outdoor drop box is located outside the main entrance of City Hall and the indoor drop box is located inside City Hall to the right of the front counter window. Contact UtilityBilling@corcoranmn.gov with any questions regarding your utility bill or to start/stop service. Subscribe to the City Newsletter Visit www.corcorcoranmn.gov — Our Community / What’s New / Newsletters and look for the gray BELL icon with Subscribe and follow the prompts. CORCORAN NEWS