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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018-01 -- Winter-Spring 2040 Comp Plan Info Links 2030 Comp Plan http://bit.ly/2n9wTxd 2040 Comp Plan Video Archives http://bit.ly/2nwy62j Council Agenda Packets http://bit.ly/2mLysOo Council Minutes http://bit.ly/2mLyqpF 2040 Comprehensive Plan Updates Work continues on the 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update which is scheduled for completion by the end of 2018. Major discussions related to transportation, land use, and utilities have already taken place and will continue to be reviewed. The City will have a draft plan presented at a community open house on January 29, 2018. The 2040 Comp Plan draft is based upon information received from surveys, formal and informal community input at meetings, and City Council direction. For the most up to date information see the City’s website at www.ci.corcoran.mn.us or connect with Brad Martens at 763-400-7030 or bmartens@ci.corcoran.mn.us. What is a City Comp Plan? A city comprehensive plan promotes the community’s current and long-term vision, goals, objectives and policies; it establishes a process for the managed growth of transportation, utilities, land use, recreation and housing; and a comprehensive plan acts as a compass to provide balance between nature and planned development. Winter/Spring 2018 2017 Year in Review Corcoran News The end of any year is a good time for reflection. This year I reflect on the following selection of significant items from the year:  Ron Thomas transitioned into his new role as Mayor following long time Mayor Ken Guenthner  New Councilmembers Jon Bottema and Brian Dejewski joined Councilmembers Tonya LaFave and Mike Keefe  A market analysis of southeastern Corcoran was completed to assist the Council with decision making  Approved the seventh and eighth additions in the Ravinia development; approved the final plat for the first addition of Bass Lake Crossing  Approved 72 new housing permits  Completed the downtown utility and street improvement project  Began designing a new neighborhood park to be located in the Ravinia development  New software was implemented to allow the acceptance of credit cards for payments  Completed several significant ditching and culvert projects following record setting rain events from 2016  Hosted or assisted with many annual events including clean up day, truck safety seminar, firearm safety program, Night To Unite event, and Corcoran Country Daze  Held an open house and two community surveys related to the 2040 Comprehensive Plan update  Much, much more A sincere thank you to those who have made your voice heard and helped to shape many of the above items. For those of you who would like to be involved in 2018, I encourage you to begin by attending the next community meeting for the Comprehensive Plan which will be on Monday, January 29 at 6:00 pm. We need your help and you can make a difference. Have a safe and wonderful start to 2018. As usual, if you have questions or comments please don’t hesitate to reach out to the City Council or me. I can be reached at 763- 400-7030 or bmartens@ci.corcoran.mn.us. Onward and upward for 2018! Sincerely, Brad Martens City Administrator City of Corcoran Fast Fact If you would like to address the City Council at a meeting, please contact City Administrator Brad Martens, at 763-400-7030. If you have a question or concern for the City Council, please see City Council contact information on the back page of this newsletter. 2040 Comp Plan Open House 2040 Comprehensive Plan Open House January 29, 2018 — 6:00 pm Corcoran City Hall Winter/Spring 2018 www.ci.corcoran.mn.us Page 14 Page 6-7 Public Works/Parks 4 Page City Planning Page 12  Page 2 Winter/Spring 2018 www.ci.corcoran.mn.us Corcoran Happenings Page 13 Page 7 Page 16 General Information Public Safety 10 Page Environmental Page 5 Page 8-9 City Updates The City Council meets on the second and fourth Thursdays of the month at 7:00 pm at City Hall. 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 on the City’s website . Hoppe Lot Consolidation and Vacation — 9815 Rush Creek Boulevard  Approved the lot consolidation and easement vacation for two existing lots. Variance and Final Plat for Gmach Farm Subdivision — 22525 County Road 117  Approved variance and final plat to allow two lots. Solar Ordinance  Approved ordinance amendment prohibiting Community Solar Gardens. Interim Use Permit/Conditional Home Occupation License for Good Dogs MN at 10220 Trail Haven Road  Approved the application for operation of a dog training business. Conditional Home Occupation License/Interim Use Permit for Red Barn Pet Retreat  Approved the amendment to the current interim use permit. PUD Sketch Plan for “Encore” at 9975 County Road 101  Reviewed the proposed sketch plan of 208 single family homes and provided comments to the applicant, Pulte Homes of Minnesota.  Authorized staff to initiate a sanitary sewer feasibility study at the cost of the applicant. Sign Ordinance Update  Directed staff to bring back an ordinance that allows for 60% of a sign to be dynamic in certain zoning districts. Ravinia Neighborhood Park  Held a neighborhood meeting for park planning on October 17, 2017.  Reviewed the Request for Proposals document which contractors will use to bid on the project in early 2018. Rockford School District Property  Approved the athletic fields lease (located at 20400 County Road 50) with Rockford School District through 2018.  Reviewed an opportunity to purchase the land at 20400 County Road 50 for future City park land. Ordinance Review  Provided feedback to staff to start drafting a solicitors, peddlers and transient merchants ordinance. Financial Guidelines Update  Adopted the revised Financial Management Guidelines with an amendment to language regarding utility billing. Draft Local Water Supply Plan  Approved the draft water supply plan to be submitted to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Social Media Policy and Implementation  Adopted the Social Media Policy as presented and authorized staff to implement the social media plan. Public Hearing on Delinquent Fees  Held the public hearing on delinquent recycling and dust control fees.  Authorized certification of delinquent fees to Hennepin County to be collected with 2018 property taxes. Preliminary Plat, Final Plat and Variance for Hales Corner 2nd Addition located at 6450 and 6470 Pioneer Trail  Held the easement vacation public hearing.  Approved the preliminary plat, final plat, variance and easement vacation. Comprehensive Plan Amendment, Rezoning, Preliminary Plat, and Preliminary PUD for “Bass Lake Estates” at 19219 and 19235 County Road 10  Approved the comprehensive plan amendment, rezoning, preliminary plat and preliminary PUD for 56 single family homes and seven self-storage buildings. Tax Forfeit Properties  Approved the acquisition of a tax forfeiture property south of Schutte Road. Property Taxes Corcoran Happenings Building Permits In planning your construction projects for next year, please remember that the City has a number of guidelines and checklist handouts available to help you with the permit process. Handouts and permit forms are available at City Hall or on our website at www.ci.corcoran.mn.us. If you have any questions please stop by City Hall or call Mike Pritchard at 763-400-7033. For Building Code related questions, please call our contracted Building Official, Metro West Inspections at 763-479-1720.  Page 3 Winter/Spring 2018 www.ci.corcoran.mn.us Ravinia Development Updates 2017 Pictured above Springdale I Ravinia Classic Collection Based upon current house sales in 2015-2017, 153 new homes have been permitted and built in the Corcoran Ravinia neighbor- hood. This Lennar Homes Development is located at County Road 101 and Gleason Parkway, in the southeast corner of Corcoran. City Updates Continued... Maple Hill Estates Water/Sewer Connection Discussion  Provided feedback to staff on the requirements for connection and the City fees. Reports From Staff  Reviewed various code enforcement violation scenarios and the action steps taken.  Reviewed cost savings and revenues generated for the Public Works Director position for the first three months.  Received invitation to attend a sub-watershed assessment meeting and a recap of the meeting. Emergency Communications Systems Fee Ordinance  Adopted an ordinance to collect a fee at the time of building permit for the development of the City’s emergency communications system (i.e. warning sirens). Origin and Destination Study  Authorized participation in a study to understand traffic flows on County Roads. 2040 Comprehensive Plan – Land Use Discussion  Provided direction on land use in Northeast and Southeast sections of Corcoran. 2018 Budget and Levy  Accepted public comment at the Budget Meeting.  Adopted the final budget of $3,984,503 which was $28,532 lower than the adopted preliminary budget. 2018 Fee Schedule  Reviewed changes to fees and adopted the 2018 fee schedule. 2018 Full-time, Park-time and Seasonal Wage Schedule  Adopted the 2081 wage schedule for City employees. 2018 Water and Sanitary Sewer Budgets  Adopted the water and sanitary sewer budgets. Recycling Agreement Extension  Approved a six-month extension of the Randy’s Recycling contract. 2017 City Council Strategic Goal Review In 2017, the City Council held two strategic planning work sessions. The City Council directed staff to focus on seven goals for the City. Here is an update on how each goal is progressing: Retain and Attract Business (EDA, Chamber, etc.)  Staff was directed to begin scheduling meetings with business owners. Presentations were received by representatives from local Chambers of Commerce and an expert on Tax Increment Financing. Pave a Portion of a Gravel Collector Road  Council adopted the assessment policy. Staff was directed to develop a recommendation for paving gravel roads based on existing Municipal State Aid (MSA) funds and future MSA funds which the City can borrow ahead. Council ordered and accepted a Feasibility Study for Willow Drive/Larkin Road with the use of MSA funds, assessments and a bond. An improvement hearing was held. Council voted to abandon the project. Increase Communication (social media, communication plan, etc.)  Staff was directed investigate increasing notification distances for land use applications, review options for website improvements and explore emergency alert systems as part of the 2018. Staff implemented Facebook and Twitter and Council adopted a social media policy. Increase Opportunities for Building Rights  Council held a Land Use work session as part of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update and will continue to review the building rights program as part of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update. Address Specific Crime/Drug Issues to Retain Safe Atmosphere  Mayor Thomas and Councilmember Dejewski were appointed to a sub-committee to provide recommendations to address specific crime/drug issues to retain a safe atmosphere. Council accepted the report of the sub-committee and adjusted the 2018 budget accordingly. Proposed Ordinances Per Minnesota Statute 415.19, the City of Corcoran posts proposed ordinances on the City’s website for the purposes of maintaining transparency with the public. Ordinances are posted at least 10 days prior to the City Council meeting at which the proposed ordinance is scheduled for a final vote. Proposed ordinances are removed from this page after the date of the meeting. Visit the link to view current Proposed Ordinances within the City of Corcoran: http://www.ci.corcoran.mn.us/ index.asp?SEC=31D52FFE-E483-4D84- BD6D-AE8845307589&Type=B_BASIC Social Media in 2018 Starting in 2017, the City of Corcoran began a City social media presence. The City of Corcoran shares information on Facebook and Twitter regarding emergency information, City Council and Commission information, special events and other happenings around the community. View or follow the links below for more information: Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter! Facebook: www.facebook.com/CorcoranMN/ Twitter: www.twitter.com/CorcoranMNCity City Planning — Land Use City Updates: Ordinances and Social Media www.ci.corcoran.mn.us  Page 4 Winter/Spring 2018 Current Developments Bass Lake Crossing In March, a PUD sketch plan for M/I Homes LLC for land at 19400 County Road 10 for 97 single family detached homes was reviewed. In June, the preliminary plat, comprehensive plan amendment, rezoning and preliminary PUD were approved. In September, the final plat, final PUD and development agreement for Bass Lake Crossings 1st Addition was approved. Grading and tree removal on the site has begun. Bass Lake Estates In June, a PUD Sketch Plan for 19219 and 19235 County Road 10 for a mixed-use development with 56 detached single family homes and seven self-storage units. In October, the preliminary plat, comprehensive plan amendment, rezoning and preliminary PUD were approved. The application for final plat, final PUD and development agreement has been received and will be reviewed at the second January Council meeting. Development Sketch Plan — Encore In September, a PUD Sketch Plan for Pulte Homes of Minnesota for 9975 County Road 101 for a 208 single family home development. The homes would be detached villa homes similar to Bass Lake Crossings. Council authorized a sanitary sewer feasibility study to be completed at the cost of the applicant. Ravinia — Neighborhood Park A neighborhood meeting was held on October 17, at the Ravinia Amenity Center to gather neighborhood input on the park design. In January, requests for proposals will be sought. The next steps would be to approve the quotes and begin construction in 2018. 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, and also includes services through Hennepin County, like county libraries and parks. 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.  Page 3 Winter/Spring 2016 www.ci.corcoran.mn.us www.ci.corcoran.mn.us  Page 5 Winter/Spring 2018 Property Tax Info Property Taxes Can Change 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. Understanding Your Property Tax Video: http://www.hennepin.us/residents/property/property-taxes Why is a property tax levy needed? Only a small portion of the City budget is funded through fees or charges for services. For 2018, the portion funded by fees or charges covers only 21% of the city’s expenditures. The remaining 79% is funded through the levy. 2018 City of Corcoran Tax Levy The City Council adopted its preliminary levy for 2018 at the September 14 meeting. This levy amount was used to create the City tax amount you saw on your proposed 2018 levies and taxes notice. The City Council adopted a final levy for 2018 at the December 14, 2017 meeting. The adopted final levy of $3,984,503, is a $268,338 or 7.2% increase from the 2017 levy. Despite this increase, the tax rate is projected to decrease slightly from 45.994% to 45.256% due to new construction and increased valuations. When Do I Homestead My Property? After purchasing and moving into a new home, you should apply for homestead as soon as possible. You may apply for homestead at any time during the year, and you may qualify for taxes payable the following year provided that you move into the home by December 1 of the year and apply by December 15. The homestead classification applies to properties that are physically occupied by the owner(s) as the principal place of residence. Classification as a homestead may qualify the property for a reduced classification rate, a reduced taxable market value, a property tax refund, and/or other special program eligibility. To have your property homesteaded, you must complete the Application for Homestead form. To qualify for the homestead classification, you must:  Be one of the owners of the property or be a qualifying relative of at least one owner of the property  Occupy the property listed as your primary residence  Be a Minnesota resident A Certificate of Real Estate Value (CRV) must be filed before homestead can be granted, and a copy of the warranty deed needs to be included with the homestead application. You can go to www.hennepin.us/residents/property/ homestead to download and complete the Homestead Application Form. Drop the application off at the City Hall with the appropriate documentation to complete the homestead property process. Fast Fact: What is Skijoring? Skijoring is a winter sport where a person on skis is pulled by a horse, a dog (or dogs). It is derived from the Norwegian word skijoring meaning ski driv- ing. Skijoring combines dog power with cross country skiing, and employs the cooperation and athletic ability of both the skier and dog. Minneapolis holds an annual Skijoring Championship each January. View http:// www.loppet.org/cityoflakesloppet/loppet-events/saturday/skijoring-loppet/ for more information. The Corcoran Police, Public Works, and the Hennepin County Highway division would like to caution residents that it is unlawful to dump, plow or push snow from private driveways onto highway 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-way 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 MN Statutes, Chapter 160.2715, RIGHT-OF-WAY USE, violation of the above statute is a misdemeanor, city ordinance 130.04 also 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 maxi- mum $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. City Snowplow Policy www.ci.corcoran.mn.us  page 6 Winter/Spring 2018 Public Works A 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 more than 69 miles of roads, and 85 cul-de-sacs that are maintained by the Public Works department. The criteria for the decision to begin snow and/or ice control operation 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 2:00 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 view the city website at www.ci.corcoran.mn.us and select Departments - Public Works/Parks Department - Snowplowing. 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. A Quick Mailbox Reminder Inspect your existing mail box post for damage and replace before the winter snowplowing season begins. Ensure your mail box posts are sturdy, set solidly in the ground, and in good condition before the snow falls. Swing-Away Mail Box Post Option Available Swing-Away Mail Box 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 front doors of Corcoran City Hall. The Swing-Away Mail Box Posts are available to purchase for $65.00 for the individual product or for $150.00, you can have Public Works install it. Please call 763-420-2288 for more information or to schedule the installation. 2018 Corcoran Event Calendar Jan 11: City Council Meeting 7:00 pm — Council Chambers Jan 15: Holiday — City Hall Closed Jan 16: Parks & Trails Meeting 7:00 pm — Council Chambers Jan 18: Council Comp Plan Meeting 7:00 pm — Council Chambers Jan 25: City Council Meeting 7:00 pm — Council Chambers Jan 29: Comp Plan Open House 6:00 pm — Community Room Feb 1: Truck Safety Seminar Registration Begins (See Page 9 for more information) Feb 1: Firearms Safety Registration Begins (See Page 9 for more information) Feb 1: Planning Commission Meeting 7:00 pm — Council Chambers Feb 8: City Council Meeting 7:00 pm — Council Chambers Feb 19: Holiday — City Hall Closed Feb 20: Parks & Trails Meeting 7:00 pm — Council Chambers Feb 22: City Council Meeting 7:00 pm — Council Chambers Mar 1: Tenth Annual Truck Safety Seminar (Pre-registration required) 8:00 am — Public Works Facility Mar 1: Planning Commission Meeting 7:00 pm — Council Chambers Mar 8: City Council Meeting 7:00 pm — Council Chambers Mar 18: Youth Firearm Safety Begins 6:00 pm — Community Room Mar 20: Parks & Trails Meeting 7:00 pm — Council Chambers Mar 22: City Council Meeting 7:00 pm — Council Chambers Apr 5: Planning Commission Meeting 7:00 pm — Council Chambers Apr 12: Open Book Meeting 5:30 pm — Community Room Apr 12: City Council Meeting 7:00 pm — Council Chambers For the most up to date calendar information, visit www.ci.corcoran.mn.us and check out the Upcoming Events link. Parks & Recreation  page 7 Winter/Spring 2018 www.ci.corcoran.mn.us Corcoran Skating Rinks Corcoran's skating rinks offer fun and recreation for cold weather enthusiasts of all ages. Building and maintaining them depends on many variables. To start making ice, crews need temperatures to be around 0 degrees to –10 degrees F for about one week and frozen ground about four inches deep. The crews can 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 were opened for the season in late December, and weather permitting, will remain open until late February. If rinks don’t have complete coverage, they can be unsafe for skaters. Pending weather conditions can lead to late openings and/or early rink closings. Depending on weather conditions, the Public Works crew cleans and resurfaces the rinks daily, Monday through Friday and weekend mornings. (Roads and public safety are first priorities.) During extreme cold weather, the rinks and shelter building may be closed. Before dropping off your children, check for a “Closed“ sign posted on the shelter door. Updates on the ice rinks will be posted on the City’s website at www.ci.corcoran.mn.us. Warming house hours are: 11:00 am — 9:00 pm weekends and holidays 4:00 pm — 9:00 pm weekdays For ice rink concerns, please call the Corcoran City Hall at 763-420-2288. Three River Parks Elm Creek Winter Activities The Winter Recreation Area at Elm Creek Park Reserve features a lighted tubing hill with lifts and snowmaking, a beginner-level downhill ski and snowboard hill, and just over 11 miles of cross-country ski trails. After the action, winter sports enthusiasts can warm their toes and grab a hot cocoa at the Chalet. A blend of modern and rustic, the Chalet provides equipment rental, concessions, public seating and a fireplace. Activity Passes and Trail Map Downhill ski and snowboard season passes can be purchased at the Elm Creek Chalet from 9:00 am— 5:00 pm. Purchase a season pass and receive great benefits at sister ski areas! Elm Creek offers scenic trails for cross-country skiing, skijoring, snowshoeing and more. Visit: www.threeriversparks.org/parks/elm-creek-park/winter-recreation- area/hours-and-rates.aspx for more information. Online Safety Tips Visit www.dot.state.mn.us or dial 511 for Minnesota Department of Transportation road and winter driving conditions throughout Minnesota. www.ci.corcoran.mn.us Sources: www.kidpower.org, www.dhs.gov/ stopthinkconnect and www.norton.com For Kids Tip 1: Discuss what cyberbullying is Tip 2: Be clear about the rules for using technology Tip 3: Give consequences if kids cyber-bully Tip 4: Provide support if a child is cyber- bullied Tip 5: Make sure kids know adults will take the necessary steps to stop cyber-bullying Tip 6: If someone makes you feel uncomfortable, tell an adult right away For Adults Tip 1: Keep personal information professional and limited Tip 2: Keep your privacy settings on Tip 3: Practice safe browsing Tip 4: Make sure your connection is secure and choose strong passwords Tip 5: Be careful in what you download For Seniors Citizens Tip 1: Know what cyber security is Tip 2: Keep mobile devices in your possession at all times Tip 3: Don’t ever give your personal information over email Tip 4: Avoid opening attachments from unknown senders Tip 5: Install and update security programs on your computer For Your Family Tip 1: Realize cybersecurity is a moving target Tip 2: Get wise to phishing Tip 3: Watch out for scams Tip 4: Use a password management system Tip 5: Keep social networks secure Tip 6: Identify the threat in your household Tip 7: Educate kids about online safety Tip 8: Don’t forget mobile devices Tip 9: Use a credit card Tip 10: When in doubt, call support  page 8 Winter/Spring 2018 www.ci.corcoran.mn.us Public Safety Do you know how old your smoke alarms are? Article Courtesy of Rogers Fire Department Smoke alarms should be replaced every ten years from the manufacture date. Over time, the sensors in the alarms become dusty and cloudy causing alarms to go off for no reason or to not alarm when intended. Smoke alarms should be installed on every level of your home, outside each sleeping area and inside each bedroom. There are two kinds of smoke alarms ionization – which detect flaming fires quickly and photoelectrical – which detects smoldering fires quickly. It is recommended to use both types or a combination alarm in your home. Smoke alarms should be tested monthly and batteries replaced at least every six months depending upon battery duration. Carbon Monoxide alarms should be installed at least ten feet from every sleeping area. This is to alert you when you are sleeping. Most of the time carbon monoxide alarms are in the furnace area, which if it were to alarm one may not hear it when sleeping. It is recommended to purchase a carbon monoxide alarm with a digital read out. Carbon monoxide alarm replacement should follow manufacture guidelines as different brands vary. Contact your local Fire Department if you have any questions regarding smoke alarms and/or carbon monoxide alarms. Snow Removal Around Fire Hydrants Article Courtesy of Rogers Fire Department During a fire, seconds count. The extra minute removing snow from around fire hydrants my save your neighbor’s home or yours. Also, keep your house numbers readily visible. During your snow removal efforts this winter season, please keep fire hydrants free from obstruction of snow. As you shovel or push snow off your driveways and sidewalks, take time to clear the snow from around fire hydrants allowing for a three-foot radius. Your help will be greatly appreciated. Burning Permits If you choose to burn yard debris, don’t forget to apply for a burning permit; it only takes a couple of minutes to apply in person at the Corcoran Police Department, during the business hours of Monday through Friday 7:30 am—5:00 pm and Thursdays 7:30 am—9:00 pm, or at City Hall from 8:00 am — 4:00 pm. 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 recreational fire. Burn permits are not required when the ground is snow-covered, which is ground that has a continuous unbroken cover of snow to a depth of three inches or more surrounding the immediate area of the fire.  Items approved to burn include: vegetative material, such as grass, leaves, brush and untreated lumber  Items not approved to burn include: hazardous wastes, demolition debris, motor vehicles, oils, rubber, plastics, 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 web- site at: www.dnr.state.mn.us/forestry/ fire. Public Safety Tenth Annual Truck Safety Seminar — March 1, 2018 Corcoran Police and Public Works will host the 10th Annual Truck Safety Seminar on Thursday, March 1, 2018, at the Corcoran Public Works facility, 9100 County Road 19. The seminar is held from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm and will cover a multitude of items such as the new commercial vehicle laws for 2018, rules and regulations, vehicle equipment requirements, questions you may have and much more! Coffee, rolls and lunch are provided by donations from sponsors. Registration starts the end of January 2018. Space is limited, so visit the website to register early! Registration begins February 1. To get on the email list for the seminar information, contact Paula Steelman at 763-400-7002 or email her at psteelman@ci.corcoran.mn.us or register here now. We greatly appreciate all of our sponsors for the Truck Safety Seminar! The seminar could not happen every year without their generosity! If you would like to be a sponsor of the 2018 seminar, contact Paula at 763-400-7002 or email psteelman@ci.corcoran.mn.us. Safety News Corcoran Police Social Media Firearm Safety Class Corcoran Firearm Safety 2018 classes are scheduled for Sunday, March 18, 25, April 8, 15, and 22, 2018, from 6:00 pm—9:00 pm at the Corcoran Community Room. The class will conclude with Field Safety Day on Saturday, April 28, 2018, from 8:00 am—3:00 pm. Registration opens February 1, 2018. Youth ages 11 and older can attend a firearms safety certification course and receive their certificate. The Firearms Safety Certificate becomes valid at age 12. Three basic rules of firearms handling: · Treat each firearm as if it is loaded. · Always control the muzzle of your firearm. · Be sure of your target and what is beyond. Visit www.ci.corcoran.mn.us for more information. 4-Ton Road Restrictions This Spring Also as a reminder, the spring road restrictions will be enforced this spring. A majority of the city streets in Corcoran will be posted at 4-ton per axle. If you have a delivery, questions about accessing posted roads, or need a permit, please contact the Corcoran City Hall at 763-420-2288. We Care About Our Community Please hang the attached magnet somewhere where you easily view it, so you always know who to call at the Corcoran Police Department. For emergencies, please call dispatch at 911, for non-emergencies please call dispatch at 952-258-5321. If you need general information regarding gun or hunting ordinances, or burn permit information, please call the general Corcoran Police Department number at 763-420-8966. You can also visit the website at www.ci.corcoran.mn.us for general ordinance information, burn permit requirements, or upcoming events. The Corcoran Police Department shares information on Facebook and Twitter regarding emergency information, weekly press releases, special events and other happenings around the community. View or follow the links below for more information: Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Corcoran- Police-Department/459695357400188 Twitter: www.twitter.com/corcoranpolice www.ci.corcoran.mn.us  page 9 Winter/Spring 2018 www.ci.corcoran.mn.us Please remove magnet and place on your refrigerator. Christmas Tree Disposal Options What is the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4)? Source: http://www.dot.state.mn.us/metro/waterresources/ MS4 stands for Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System. MS4 programs are required by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) to reduce pollution from storm water to surface waters and groundwater. Municipalities with populations of 50,000 or greater, smaller designated cities such as Corcoran, and other public entities with significant storm water drainage systems have been selected to have MS4 programs. Other public entities that have been selected include universities, counties and state transportation departments. Minnesota Department of Transportation Metro District is one of these designated MS4 programs. MnDOT Metro Boundaries (PDF) http://www.dot.state.mn.us/metro/waterresources/pdf/urbanizedareamap.pdf Improving Water Quality Through Storm Water Management Source: https://www.pca.state.mn.us/water/stormwater The surest way to improve water quality in Minnesota is to better manage storm water. Unmanaged storm water can have devastating consequences on the quality of lakes, streams and rivers we enjoy. Storm water often contains oil, chemicals, excess phosphorous, toxic metals, litter and disease-causing organisms. In addition, storm water frequently overwhelms streams and rivers, scours streambanks and river bottoms and hurts or eliminates fish and other aquatic organisms. To better manage storm water across the state, the MPCA administers the requirements of the federal Clean Water Act in addition to its own State Disposal System requirements. At the MPCA, the Storm water Program includes three general storm water permits: the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Permit, the Construction Storm water Permit and the Industrial Storm water Permit. Each program administers a general permit (and in some cases, individual permits) that incorporates federal and state requirements for Minnesota storm water management. According to the 1996 National Water Quality Inventory, storm water runoff is a leading source of water pollution and can harm surface waters such as lakes, rivers, streams and wetlands. Common pollutants in storm water runoff include pesticides, fertilizers, oils, metals, pathogens, salt, sediment, litter and other debris. These pollutants are transported via storm water from a variety of sources including construction projects, industries and urbanized areas. Management of storm water runoff from urbanized areas is very important for restoring or protecting surface waters. Urbanized areas are associated with activities that contribute pollutants to storm water runoff, such as application of anti/deicing compounds, vehicle fueling, spills, landscaping and lawn maintenance, and application of pesticides and fertilizers. Additionally, urbanized areas are characterized by large amounts of impervious surfaces, such as streets, driveways, roof tops, parking lots and sidewalks. Storm water runoff from impervious surfaces travels faster and in larger quantities, which results in damage to rivers, streams and wetlands; destruction of aquatic habitats; and elevated pollutant levels reaching surface waters. Impervious surfaces also inhibit infiltration and subsequent groundwater recharge. Local public entities that own or operate a municipal separate storm sewer system (MS4) in urbanized areas play a key role in preventing or reducing the negative impacts storm water runoff may have on Minnesota’s valuable water resources. Additional Links MPCA Storm water Program MS4 Website https://www.pca.state.mn.us/water/stormwater EPA Storm water Website Real trees are recyclable, but did you know that flocked or painted Christmas trees cannot be composted? Trees can be used in composting, made into mulch or used for fuel. Listed below are some Christmas tree disposal options.  January 2-31, 2018: Residents can drop off one tree per household for a $10.00 fee at the SKB Malcolm Transfer Station, 630 Malcolm Avenue SE, Minneapolis. The site is open 7:00 am to 4:00 pm, Monday-Friday, except holidays. Bring a photo ID showing you are a Hennepin County resident. No wreaths or other decorations, no tree stands, no ornaments, no plastic bags.  If you are a current customer of Randy’s Environmental Services, they will pick up your Christmas tree for a small fee, during the week of January 2 or January 9, on your regularly scheduled pick up day. The first week in January, pickup will be delayed one day due to the Monday holiday. If you are a current customer, and interested in having Randy’s pick up your Christmas tree, simply set the tree to the end of your driveway those first two weeks in January. The cost is $8.00 ($10.34 with Fuel/Enviro Fee) for an un-bagged tree. The tree should be free from decorations and stands. If you have a bag on the tree there is an additional $2.00 fee (total $12.92 with Fuel/Enviro Fee). If the tree is larger than eight feet, please cut the tree in half.  Check with your current sanitation/ garbage company regarding pick-up programs that may exist for Christmas tree recycling. For more recycling ideas visit http://www.recyclemoreminnesota.org/  page 10 Winter/Spring 2018 www.ci.corcoran.mn.us Environmental Updates Environmental Updates  page 8 Winter 2015 2018 Corcoran Recycling Schedule For more information regarding recycling, please contact Randy’s Environmental Services at 763-972-3335 or visit their website at www.randyssanitation.com www.ci.corcoran.mn.us  page 11 Winter/Spring 2018 Corcoran Recycling News – Payment Options for 2018 In 2015, the City partnered with Randy’s Environmental Services to provide additional payment options to residents for their recycling services billing. In 2018, Randy’s Environmental Services, the City’s residential recycling contractor will be billing residents directly for recycling services. You can pay by credit card or e-check on the Randy’s Environmental Services website at https:// secure.randyssanitation.com/webpak/signin.jsp. As in prior years, you will receive your annual recycling bill in early 2018. The late charge for past due recycling fees will be 1.5% monthly of the annual fee and a one-time $10.00 late fee. If the recycling fees are not paid by August 31 of each year, recycling fees will be certified to Hennepin County and will be added to your 2018 property tax bill. For more information, contact the City of Corcoran at 763-420-2288. Preventing Winter Watershed Pollution We all live in a watershed, and protecting our watershed is everyone’s responsibility. The Elm Creek Watershed Management Commission (ECWMC) is the regional governmental unit responsible for protecting the water resources of the Elm Creek Watershed, located in Hennepin County, Minnesota. Corcoran comprises 36.06 square miles of the 130.61 square miles of the Elm Creek Watershed, located in central or northwest Hennepin County. During the winter months, follow the guidelines below to help reduce illicit discharge into our watershed:  Rock and/or sidewalk salt ends up in our ground water. Remember a little sidewalk salt goes a long way, and shoveling before you salt will help reduce contaminated runoff. Rock and/or sidewalk salt is only effective when the temperature is above 15 degrees. Recommended application after shoveling snow and scraping ice, is about a handful per square yard treated. Use only enough of the deicer product to break the ice/surface bond, then remove slush by shoveling.  Limit the use of sand. Sand increases the amount of sediment in our streams, lakes and rivers, and degrades important habitat for aquatic organisms. Sand only provides traction, and does not melt ice. Visit www.elmcreekwatershed.org for more information. What is Illicit Discharge? Illicit discharge is defined as non-storm water that discharges into our watersheds, and comes in many forms. The runoff from washing your car, pressure washing your patio furniture, deck or driveway, over watering of lawns, septic systems that are not operating correctly, and swimming pool discharges are all forms of illicit discharge. Livestock farms that do not properly dispose of manure or runoff from barns, are also forms of illicit discharge and contribute to polluting of creeks and streams that flow into main watersheds. Minnesota's Buffer Initiative Minnesota’s New Buffer Initiative will soon require public waters in the state - lakes, rivers and streams - to be surrounded by vegetated buffers 50-feet wide (on average) and public ditches to have 16.5-foot wide buffers as well. Buffers will need to be installed on public waters by November 2017 and on public drainage systems by November 2018. Learn more at http://www.elmcreekwatershed.org/buffers.html. Corcoran Athletic Association Baseball Registration Sponsored by the Corcoran Athletic Association Corcoran Athletic Association registration begins January 8, 2018, on-line at www.caa-mn.com. There are no tryouts— everyone plays, everyone has fun! CAA focuses on players first, winning second. The Corcoran Athletic Association is a 40 year old non-profit group organized and coordinated by an all-volunteer board of directors. Volunteers are always needed and CAA can work with any time you have give. Financial donations also help to keep registration fees low and help maintain safe fields. Have A Business Interested in Advertising? The City of Corcoran has given CAA authority to sell advertising space on the fences of the three City park baseball fields. This money will be used to make major purchases to improve the experience for the children in the program. A two-year contract includes a sign with your business information hung up on the field of your choice and a business sponsor link on the CAA website. Umpires Needed CAA also needs umpires for the 2018 season. If you are interested and are 18 years of age or older, please visit the Minnesota Youth Athletics website at http://www.myas.org for more information on umpire training. Reimbursement for umpire training is covered by CAA if you bring your umpire certificate as confirmation of training, and after you umpire two games for CAA. A fee of $40.00 per game is paid for trained umpires meeting the above qualifications. More Information For more information about becoming a CAA sponsor or umpire training, please email Kevin Dale at: corcoranathleticsinfo@hotmail.com Environmental Updates  page 12 Winter/Spring 2018 www.ci.corcoran.mn.us Organics Recycling For Corcoran Residents About one-third of what we throw away is organics, food scraps and food-soiled paper products. In organics recycling programs, waste is recycled into valuable compost used in landscaping and road construction projects. It’s easy to make a difference in reducing waste and protecting the environment by signing up for an organics recycling program. Check with your current sanitation provider for organics recycling available. If you are a current Randy’s Environmental Services customer, put your organics trash to better use! It’s super easy to do with minimum cost, sign up at https:// www.randysenvironmentalservices.com/residential/ organics-recycling and begin following the steps below. Step 1: Discard food waste and food-soiled paper from meals, your refrigerator and the pantry into a kitchen compost bucket, separate from your other household trash. Use a kitchen scraps recycling setup that is most convenient for you and your household. You may use any sturdy washable container as a kitchen compost bucket. Consider using the three gallon Blue Bag Organics 100% BPI Compostable liner to line your compost bucket. Please don’t use plastic shopping bags or other kinds of plastic bags. They are not compostable. Step 2: Empty your kitchen compost bucket into the 13-gallon Blue Bag Organics BPI- certified bag. Unlike most plastic trash bags, the Blue Bag Organics liner is specially made to be compostable. All your household’s organics, including flattened and folded pizza boxes, go into that special Blue Bag Organics liner. Step 3: For trash day, hand tie the Blue Bag Organics liner and place it inside your regular garbage cart for curb-side pickup. We’ll separate all Blue Bag Organics from other trash at our facility. And off they’ll go to an industrial composting facility. Only place 13 gallon BBO liners in the garbage cart. Smaller bags will not be collected. If you have any questions about how to use this program - Please call Randy's Environmental Services at 763-972-3335. Recycle Plastic Bottles Source: www.pca.state.mn.us/featured/bottle-buyology Everyday choices about beverage bottles add up —1.5 billion beverage bottles are purchased each year in Minnesota; 15,000 will be purchased during the 5 minutes it takes to read this article. Your small decision to use a reusable bottle filled with tap water, instead of a single-use water bottle that is tossed in the garbage, will reduce energy consumption by 85% and greenhouse gases by 79%. Help eliminate plastic bottles from the trash. Here is how you can do it, and help others do it, too. Use Less  Drink tap water. Bottled water costs as much as $10 per gallon compared to less than a penny per gallon for tap water. In addition, federal water quality standards are usually more rigorous for tap water than for bottled water. Those concerned with taste or quality can also add a filtration system. Read about filters in the U.S. EPA's Filtration Facts (pdf).  Buy only one or two reusable water bottles and use them frequently. Reusable water bottles are "in" right now, and come in fun colors and patterns. If you buy too many, though, you'll reduce the benefit of using a reusable bottle. For more information on available scholarships for graduating high school seniors, please visit the appropriate school district scholarship pages: Buffalo HS Scholarship Info http://bit.ly/1NVVjxC Delano HS Scholarship Info http://bit.ly/1MHhJkn Osseo HS Scholarship Info http://bit.ly/1SmMLFs Rockford HS Scholarship Info http://bit.ly/2lNOhGC Wayzata HS Scholarship Info http://bit.ly/1TpUuAZ NW Area Jaycees Egg Hunt The NW Area Jaycees host an annual Egg Hunt every year in the City of Corcoran! The event is held outdoors, so dress appropriately and is a free event and geared for ages 0-10 with age appropriate treats in each age category. Participants are encouraged to bring baskets to gather up the goodies and turn in any prize eggs found for larger gifts! The Easter Bunny will be on hand for photo opportunities with the kids, so don’t forget to bring your cameras! Date: Sat, March 31, 2018 Time: 10:00 am Location: Corcoran Soccer Fields, 20300 County Road 50 (Same location as Corcoran Country Daze off County Road 50, not the playground off County Road 10) Check the NW Area Jaycees website for event details as the date draws near: http://nwareajaycees.org/ Local High School Scholarship Info Links www.ci.corcoran.mn.us  page 13 Winter/Spring 2018 Corcoran Happenings NW Area Jaycees Scholarships Available Sponsored by the NW Area Jaycees The Northwest Area Jaycees will be awarding up to $20,000 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 2017-Spring 2018 school year. The applications are scored on the following: Academics, Leadership, Community Involvement, and Financial Need. Complete all questions, including teacher recommendation letter, high school transcript and student applying must sign the application in the space provided. The Scholarship Committee will notify all applicants of scholarship status via mail and/or email. All questions must be answered on separate paper and typed. All unanswered segments of the application will be scored as zero. View the link below for the scholarship application: http://nwareajaycees.org/wp- content/uploads/2017/02/NW-Area-JCs-sholarship-application.pdf. Completed scholarship applications must be received or postmarked no later than Friday, May 4, 2018! Corcoran Lions Scholarships Sponsored by the Corcoran Lions The Corcoran Lions are excited to offer their 29th annual scholarship program. Each year it is a great opportunity to be able to help our youth with the opportunity to further their education. As in past years, the basic rules remain the same and they are as indicated below. Applications are due by April 13, 2018, along with a transcript of grades. The Corcoran Lions Club awards scholarships to graduating seniors who live in the City of Corcoran. This year the Lions will have the 9th annual Bill Schalo Scholarship. The Bill Schalo scholarship is given based on community service in Corcoran. This scholarship is given in memory of the Lions’ fellow member who gave so freely to our community for so many years. The scholarships are based on academic, leadership, service to the community and a need basis. The graduate must attend college, junior college, university, trade or vocational school in the year directly following graduation to receive the award. Applications can be found on the Lions website at www.corcoranlions.com or at or 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 still resides in the City of Corcoran, he or she is eligible for a scholarship. Please contact Jerry Cain by email at jerryjcain@gmail.com if you need a Corcoran Lions scholarship application. The award ceremony will be held on Tuesday, May 1, 2018, at Corcoran City Hall, at 7:00 pm. The Corcoran Lions Club is a service that helps build communities through events, donations and assistance. The Lions Club makes donations to many organizations in our community, which includes the police and fire and City Hall. Their goal is to encourage new memberships and promote events held at the Corcoran Lions Park. If you are interested in becoming a Lions member, email jerryjcain@gmail.com or stop by one of the meetings held at the Corcoran City Hall at 7:00 pm, on the first and third Tuesday of each month. For more information about the Corcoran Lions visit their website at www.corcoranlions.org. Treasures From the Past Have you ever looked into your attic, closet or storage and found a past treasure that needs restoring or that should be in a display case? In 2015, NH Pioneer Society members discovered an old display case in storage at Corcoran’s Burschville School and decided to have it restored. The display case is changed periodically and holds a collection of antique school items from Corcoran’s schools of the past. Items currently featured include school day items from the early 1940’s, a spelling test, a safety patrol badge from the early 1960’s, a library card and Davy Crockett library book. The restored display case and collected items are on display at the Corcoran City Hall. Corcoran’s Burschville School, is the only remaining one-room school of the original eight buildings that once stood in Corcoran. If you happen to find a treasure that appears to be from one of the eight schools (report cards, books, photos, etc.) and would like to share it in the collection, please contact one of the NH Pioneer Society members below. Betty 763-498-8507 Bonnie 763-420-3440 Verneal 763-498-8677 CorcoranSchool1894@gmail.com Please join us at future meetings: Jan 20, Mar 17 and Apr 2, 2018 10:00 am — 11:30am Corcoran City Hall North Hennepin Pioneer Society  page 14 Winter/Spring 2018 Corcoran Happenings www.ci.corcoran.mn.us Corcoran Gardeners Club Sponsored by Corcoran Parks and Trails Commission Corcoran has many resident gardens and many experienced gardeners but most of us do not know each other, which is unfortunate, because gardeners beautify the community and also help preserve native plants and wildlife. With the end of winter approaching, is a great time to start planning new gardens, and also to start thinking about which perennials will need to be divided in the spring. A gardening fact, perennials that have been in the ground for three years or more will usually need to separated and replanted to a new garden, or a friends garden or a city garden! Hostas, hydrangeas, coneflower, rudbeckia, phlox, forget-me-nots, sedum, daylilies and so many more are great perennials for Minnesota gardens! To learn more gardening tips, join the Corcoran Gardeners Club! Please consider volunteering and/or participating in the Corcoran Gardeners Club to share your gardening expertise, or simply join the Corcoran Gardeners Club to learn about gardening! Come be a part of designing gardens, as the City of Corcoran develops and grows! Volunteers for the Memorial Garden, and at the City Park, are especially needed to enhance the beauty of these areas of Corcoran. The Corcoran Parks and Trails Commission is overseeing and organizing the Corcoran Gardeners Club. If you are interested in participating or learning more, please call Tom Anderson at 763-428-2559 or contact him via email at tom.thegardener@yahoo.com. Parks and Trails Commission Donate Shade Trees Sponsored by the NW Area Jaycees and Corcoran Parks and Trails Commission For the past several years, the Parks and Trails Commission has given away shade tree saplings to Corcoran residents made possible with funds donated by the Northwest Area Jaycees. Varieties offered include deciduous and evergreen trees and shrubs. The trees will be given away at the City Park skating rinks/warming house shelter located at 20200 County Road 50 in late April. In an effort to increase distribution of these trees, Parks and Trails Commission will accept orders for up to five trees as long as supply lasts. To order, or for more information and delivery date, email Tom Anderson at trees4corcoran@yahoo.com or call 763-428-2559. For your larger projects you can order additional trees from Wright County Soil and Water Conservation District. Please view their website at www.wrightswcd.org/tree_program.html for complete information. Cost of each tree is about $1.10 per tree + 6.875 sales tax, and need to be ordered in bundles of 25. Tree Order Forms are mailed out in February. Please call 763-682-1970 to be added to the notification list. Corcoran residents interested in purchasing larger bare root trees and shrubs should watch the City of Plymouth website at http://www.plymouthmn.gov/ index.aspx?page=820 for updates on the annual tree and shrub sale. Prices vary depending on variety. To purchase trees directly through the DNR nursery, please view the link below: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/forestry/nursery/index.html. Corcoran Happenings CROSS Meals on Wheels What is Meals on Wheels? CROSS Meals on Wheels offers delivery of hot, ready-to-eat meals to elderly, disabled, and homebound individuals living in Corcoran, Maple Grove, Osseo, Rogers, and Dayton. When are meals delivered? Meals are delivered between 11:00 am to 12:30 pm Monday through Friday. What type of food is served? Meals are a main entrée, vegetable, bread, dessert, fruit, and milk. Can relatives sign up their loved ones? Family members are encouraged to contact CROSS to obtain information about enrolling loved ones. How much does it cost? With the new sliding fee program, the home delivered meal program is now open to more community members, the meal price determined on eligibility to pay and need. Do you need volunteers? As our program grows, so does the need for volunteer drivers. Whether once a month or once a week, CROSS will work around your schedule. Drivers must have their own vehicle, driver’s license and insurance. Based in Rogers, CROSS Services in a nonprofit organization serving families and individuals for 38 years. For more information, contact CROSS at 763- 425-1050, info@CROSSservices.org, or visit www.CROSSservices.org. Fast Fact: Corcoran Permits During the 2017 year, information on building permits in Corcoran includes: 421 total permits, 72 new homes (67 of them are located in the Ravinia neighborhood), 46 decks, 20 remodels, 15 accessory buildings, 5 additions, and 5 commercial new construction, 5 remodels and 1 solar garden. For Building Permit Guidelines and Checklists, please visit the City website and select Departments, Building and Inspections and Permit Forms and Checklists, or view at http:// www.ci.corcoran.mn.us/index.asp?SEC=4F83ECF4-0F7F-489D-8151- 7865C7A6244C&Type=B_BASIC.  page 15 Winter/Spring 2018 www.ci.corcoran.mn.us St. John’s Lutheran Community News Sponsored by St. John’s Lutheran St. John’s Lutheran Church and School, 9141 County Rd 101, Corcoran (County Roads 30 and 101) have been part of the Corcoran community for over 150 years! For more information on St. John’s events, please contact Suzanne Haag at suzanne.haag@stjlutheran.org or 763-420-2426. Free Family Fun—Annual School Musical The local community is invited to come watch and be entertained at the annual school musical at St. John’s Lutheran School! The all-student cast will star seventh and eighth grade students, with performances by the entire pre-kindergarten through eighth grade student body. The production title is still to be announced (at the time of Corcoran News publication), but promises to be family- friendly. Watch for production updates at www.stjlutheranschool.org. Date: March 8, 2018 Performances Times 12:30 pm and 7:00 pm Admission: Free Location: St. John’s gymnasium located at 9141 County Road 101 in Corcoran Students Help Hurricane Victims The students at St. John’s Lutheran School recently sent money and love to hurricane victims in Texas. They set a goal to raise $500, and the pre-kindergarten through eighth grade students collected their spare change, dollars and checks to the school lobby in September. The St. John’s community rallied behind the cause and easily exceeded their goal bringing in $1,345.00! Funds collected were sent to fellow school, Lutheran South Academy (LSA) located in Houston, Texas. LSA was severely damaged during Hurricane Harvey and the funds collected will help with the restoration process. Corcoran News is published quarterly by the City of Corcoran to update residents and businesses on city government news. City Council Ron Thomas, Mayor 763-400-7020 rthomas@ci.corcoran.mn.us Jonathan Bottema, Councilor jbottema@ci.corcoran.mn.us Brian Dejewski, Councilor bdejewski@ci.corcoran.mn.us Mike Keefe Councilor 612-590-4311 mkeefe@ci.corcoran.mn.us Tonya LaFave, Councilor 763-443-9593 tlafave@ci.corcoran.mn.us City Administrator Brad Martens 763-400-7030 bmartens@ci.corcoran.mn.us City of Corcoran Main Office — 763-420-2288 Monday-Friday 8:00 am — 4:00 pm General Meetings Planning & Commission Meetings Jan 4, Feb 1, Mar 1, Apr 5, May 3 7:00 pm Parks & Trails Commission Meetings Jan 16, Feb 20, Mar 20, Apr 17 7:00 pm Corcoran City Council Meetings View on-demand video link at www.ci.corcoran.mn.us Jan 11, Jan 25, Feb 8, Feb 22, Mar 8, Mar 22, Apr 12, Apr 26 and May 10 7:00 pm City Website www.ci.corcoran.mn.us Looking for a way to become involved in the future of the City of Corcoran? There are three different Commissions look for new members. Become a member of the Planning Commission, Parks and Trails Commission, or Charter Commission. The Parks and Trails Commission assists in deciding when and where new parks and trails should be created in Corcoran and meets the third Tuesday of each month. The Planning Commission reviews land use applications and meets the first Thursday of every month. The Charter Commission maintains and records changes to the City’s Charter and meets once a year in October. Save the Date: April 12 Open Book Meeting The Open Book meeting is an opportunity for residents to discuss their property assessment. For more information on the process, see the Hennepin County Assessor’s Office website at www.hennepin.us/residents/ property/ property-value. Open Book Meeting Info April 12, 2018 5:30 pm — 7:00 pm Corcoran City Hall Corcoran Community Room 8200 County Road 116 Corcoran, MN Ordinance/Other Reminders Road restriction ordinance goes into effect in mid-March, please remember to plan your projects accordingly. The truck safety seminar that is hosted by the Corcoran Public Works and Police Department is scheduled for March 1, 2018. Visit www.ci.corcoran.mn.us for more information. Garbage container driveway location during the winter months, must be placed inside your driveway perimeter or boundary on garbage pickup days. Heavy snow in winter months can be thrown off the plow blade to the roadside can cause mailbox posts to tip or break off. PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID ROGERS, MN PERMIT NO. 98 City of Corcoran 8200 County Road 116 Corcoran, MN 55340  page 16 Winter/Spring 2018 www.ci.corcoran.mn.us General Information If you are a current resident, and would like to serve as a City Commissioner, please contact: Jessica Beise 763-400-7029 jbeise@ci.corcoran.mn.us Miss a Council Meeting? Did you miss the last Council meeting? You can now view past Council meetings at the City of Corcoran website. Visit www.ci.corcoran.mn.us and click on the link within the View Council Meeting section to view the most recent Council meeting. Accepting Commissioners Applications