HomeMy WebLinkAbout2015-10 -- Fall-WinterCommunity Design
Workshop
Fall/Winter 2015
City of Corcoran Community Advisory
Team members are listed below.
Community Advisory Team
Ron Thomas
Tonya LaFave
Dean Jacobs
Meredith Wu
Kevin Dale
Chad Robran
Dennis Stfeg
Greg Ebert
Downtown Corcoran Update
www.ci.corcoran.mn.us
Page 6
Design Guidelines Update - Shape the Future of Corcoran
Together, we created the Corcoran of today and, together, we can create
the Corcoran of tomorrow, by shaping the kinds of places where we want to
live, work and play. The City of Corcoran is rewritfng the Master Plan and
Design Guidelines for the Southeast District, which includes the planned/
proposed Downtown Corcoran. The plan and guidelines are part of the
Zoning Ordinance and identffy what can be built, where it can be built and
what it looks like. As part of the update process, we will develop a new
master plan for both the Southeast District and the Downtown District, with
a strong focus on including bicyclist and pedestrians within the
transportatfon network.
To lead this effort, the City has established a committee of community
ambassadors (called the Community Advisory Team or CAT) comprised of
local citfzens, Planning Commissioners, Parks and Trails Commissioners and
City Council members. Their monthly meetfngs will explore regional,
neighborhood, and site aspects to address comprehensive standards for
development.
You can help create the future of Corcoran by talking with us at the
Community Design Workshop on October 13, checking the City website for
updates, visitfng www.landform.net/corcoran.html, completfng interactfve
surveys, and sharing your ideas or questfons.
Community Design Workshop
Tuesday, October 13
City Hall Community Room
5:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Presentation at 6:00 pm
For more informatfon contact City Administrator Brad Martens
at 763-400-7030 or bmartens@ci.corcoran.mn.us.
Corcoran News
Fall/Winter 2015
The City of Corcoran is hostfng a
workshop on Tuesday, October 13, to
review with residents the updates to
the City’s downtown master plan and
design guidelines.
City Council Strategic Goals Update
Earlier this year the City Council directed staff to focus on seven strategic
goals for the City. Here is an update on how each strategic goal is
progressing:
Complete Downtown Utility and Street Improvement Project
An improvement public hearing was held on July 23. The City Council
accepted the feasibility study and authorized plans and specificatfons on
July 23. On September 24 the City Council called an assessment public
hearing for October 22.
Pave Gravel Collector Roads
Staff presented an updated paving plan at the August 13 meetfng. Paving
collector gravel roads were discussed at the August 27 and September 24
meetfngs. Council has asked for additfonal analysis and will be reviewing
later this year.
Regional Recreation Amenity Plan
(Athletic Complex on Roehlke property)
Staff is meetfng with possible project partners. Further discussion at the City
Council meetfngs will take place in late 2015 and early 2016.
Establish a Business Group
As part of the survey of downtown business owners, staff asked about the
desire of having a Corcoran business group. Limited support existed and no
further actfon is being taken at this tfme.
Establish Night to Unite Program
Night to Unite was held on Tuesday, August 4 at four locatfons around the
community. The event was a complete success and will be contfnued in
2016.
Update Sign Ordinance
The City Council adopted the updated ordinance at the July 23 City Council
meetfng.
Improve the City Council Chamber
Staff will be developing a plan late 2015 in order to make improvements in
2016. Improvements being discussed include technology to record and
broadcast meetfngs as well as safety improvements.
Page 6-7 Public Safety/Works
Page 10 Parks & Recreation
Page 9 Parks & Recreation
Page 8 Recycling Information
Page 4 Budget Process Update
Page 5 City Updates
Page Corcoran Happenings 11
Page 2 Fall/Winter 2015 www.ci.corcoran.mn.us
Page General Information 15
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 email: general@ci.corcoran.mn.us.
Planning and Development Updates
The following highlight a few of the planning and development applicatfons
which have been reviewed by the Planning Commission and City Council. For
further informatfon contact City Hall at 763-420-2288 or visit the website at
www.ci.corcoran.mn.us.
Ravinia Lennar Development
Constructfon of approximately a dozen homes is in process with seven homes
currently completed. The City Council approved the second and third
additfons earlier this year, bringing the total number of platted lots to 101.
Strehler Estates Preliminary Plat and Ordinance Amendment
The applicant submitted a request for approval of a preliminary plat to create
four lots and an ordinance amendment to allow a private drive for property
at 22900 Strehler Road. The Planning Commission held a public hearing on
September 3, and voted unanimously to recommend approval. The City
Council will review the request on October 8.
Fehn Meadows Preliminary Plat and Final Plat
The applicant is requestfng approval of a plat to readjust the lot lines
between two parcels to create one lot and one outlot for the property
located at 20909 County Road 117. The Planning Commission held a public
hearing on September 3, and voted unanimously to recommend approval.
The City Council will review the request on October 8.
Design Guidelines Update for Southeast District/Downtown
The City received funding from Hennepin County for this project. The Project
Management Team (PMT) includes the city administrator, city planner and
Hennepin County staff. The PMT held a kickoff meetfng on September 21, to
approve a project schedule. A significant portfon of the funding must be
spent by October 31, 2015, so we will be meetfng with the Community
Advisory Team (CAT) that was appointed by the Council. The project will be
completed by January 2016. The City Council could then hold a public hearing
for adoptfon in March 2016.
Sawgrass Peachtree Partners, LLC Development on Schendel Property
The City Council approved the request on December 11, 2014, and granted
the applicant two years to apply for the final plat and final PUD development
plan. Peachtree Partners did not buy the property, but a different developer
could stfll proceed with the approved plan. The next step would be for a
developer to submit a final PUD plan and plat prior to expiratfon of the
approvals on December 11, 2016.
Elm Creek Interceptor
The Met Council contfnues to work on the Elm Creek Interceptor project
which will bring sanitary sewer service to the Corcoran border at its northeast
corner. Constructfon has begun and completfon is antfcipated in 2016.
Ravinia Development
Updates
To date, there have been 26 new
home permits issued in the Ravinia
Development, as well as one
commercial building permit for the
amenity center and outdoor pool.
Ravinia Development is a Lennar
Homes Development and is located
at County Road 101 and Gleason
Road.
In planning your constructfon
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 questfons please stop by
City Hall or call Mike Pritchard at
763-400-7033. For Building Code
related questfons, please call our
contracted Building Official, Metro
West Inspectfons at 763-479-1720.
Building Permits
Page 3 Fall/Winter 2015 www.ci.corcoran.mn.us
Budget Process Update
Learn More…
The entfre budget and related staff reports are
available on the City’s website at
www.ci.corcoran.mn.us. Under the
Government tab click “Council” then “Agenda
Packets” then “2015”. Select the 2015-09-10
Council Agenda packet to view the budget
used to set the preliminary levy.
City Administrator Brad Martens, can also be
reached at bmartens@ci.corcoran.mn.us or
763-420-2288.
Next Steps
Truth-in-Taxation Hearing
City Council Chambers
Thursday, December 10, 7:00 pm
2016 Budget and Levy Adoption
City Council Chambers
Monday, December 21, 7:00 pm
The City Council adopted its preliminary levy for 2016 at the
September 10 meetfng. This levy amount may be decreased
prior to final approval on December 21, but not increased.
This levy amount was used to create the City tax amount you
will see on your proposed 2016 levies and taxes notfce.
The adopted preliminary levy is in the amount of $3,501,918
which is a $184,350 (5.56%) increase from the 2015 levy. The
overall 2016 budget is $4,225,631 which is a $174,813 (4.3%)
increase from 2015. The increase in the levy is larger than the
increase in the overall budget due to a reductfon in state aid.
Why is a property tax levy needed?
Only a small portfon of the City budget is funded through
fees or charges for services. For 2016 the portfon funded by
fees or charges covers only 17% of our expenditures. The
remaining 83% is funded through the levy.
Tax Effects
The median value home in Corcoran is $284,300 (Source:
Metropolitan Council). The proposed levy increase would
likely bring the City tax amount on this example of a
median value home, to $1,324 for 2016, or about $110 per
month. The chart below shows where the tax amount is
spent in this median value home example.
www.ci.corcoran.mn.us Page 4 Fall/Winter 2015
Item Annual Cost Cost Per Month
Administration $264.80 $22.07
Planning /
Engineering
$39.72 $3.31
Building
Inspections
$26.48 $2.21
Public Works/
Parks
$397.20 $33.10
Police/Fire $450.16 $37.51
Transfers $13.24 $1.10
Debt Service $132.40 $11.03
Median Value Home ($284,300)
City Updates
The City Council meets on the second and fourth Thursday’s of the month at
7:00 pm at City Hall. The following is a recap of a selectfon of items discussed
at meetfngs since the last newsletter. A full recap can be found by reviewing
the approved City Council minutes on the City’s website at
www.ci.corcoran.mn.us.
City Initiated Sign Ordinance Update
Approved amendments to the Sign Ordinance to allow for larger signs, more
lightfng optfons, and dynamic displays. This was a strategic goal of the City
Council for 2015.
Consideration of Ordinance Changes Regarding the Creation of Lots Without
Development Rights
Approved amendments to the Zoning Ordinance to allow for the creatfon of
lots without development rights if additfonal rights could be obtained in the
future (example: paving gravel road).
Site Plan and Conditional Use Permit—New Verizon Telecommunications
Tower
Approved the request as recommended by staff for 23605 County Road 50.
Franchise Fees
Reviewed additfonal informatfon on the possible establishment of franchise
fees. Council was not in favor of establishing franchise fees at this tfme.
Police Officer’s Oath
City Clerk/Administratfve Services Coordinator Jessica Beise, issued the oath
to Corcoran’s newest Police Officer, Pete Ekenberg.
Paving Gravel Collector Roads
Reviewed a staff proposal to move forward with paving a portfon of Trail
Haven Road. Council directed staff to provide further historical informatfon to
the City Council for review.
Parks and Trails Commission Recommendation – Parks and Recreation
Employee
Council reviewed a recommendatfon from the Parks and Trails Commission to
hire a seasonal positfon to coordinate recreatfon actfvitfes. Council approved
the plan as presented.
2016 Preliminary Levy
Approved the 2016 preliminary levy at $3,501,918 as recommended.
Resolution Supporting the City of Dayton’s Application to the 2015
Minnesota Transportation Economic Development (TED) Program
Approved the resolutfon showing Corcoran’s support for a grant to fund the
Brockton Interchange project.
Building Right Request
Reviewed a proposal that included the donatfon of land and improvement of a
cul-de-sac at Hidden Valley Drive in return for a building right. Council was not
in favor of the proposal.
City of Corcoran
Welcomes Staff
You may be seeing some new faces
around Corcoran. We are thrilled to
have these folks join our team as they
bring a wealth of experience to the
City.
Pete Ekenberg joins
the Police Depart-
ment as a new Patrol
Officer. Pete has over
10 years of exper-
ience working in law
enforcement. Pete
was most recently
with the Carver
County Sheriff’s Department.
Darcy Wandersee
joins the Public Work
Department as a new
Public Works Main-
tenance Operator.
Darcy has over 20
years of experience in
welding and operat-
ing equipment. Darcy
has been snowplowing for the City on a
seasonal basis since 2001.
Michelle Friedrich joins the Administratfon
Department as the new Administratfve
Assistant. Michelle has
over 20 years of
experience working in
the administratfve
field in a variety of
capacitfes. Most re-
cently she was with
the Rockford School
District.
City Mission Statement
The City of Corcoran will provide
high quality public services in a
cost effective, responsible, and
professional manner in order to
create a preferred environment
to live, work, play and
transact business.
www.ci.corcoran.mn.us Page 5 Fall/Winter 2015
Public Safety
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 during the business hours of Monday through
Thursday 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Fridays 8:00 a.m. to
12:00 p.m. at the Police Department.
Burn permits are required for any fires larger than 3 feet diameter by 3
feet in height. Anything smaller than a 3 feet by 3 feet fire must be a
recreatfonal fire. Burn permits are not required when the ground is snow-
covered, which is ground that has a contfnuous unbroken cover of snow to
a depth of 3 inches or more surrounding the immediate area of the fire.
Items approved to burn are vegetatfve material, such as grass, leaves,
brush and untreated lumber. Items not approved to burn are hazardous
wastes, demolitfon debris, motor vehicles, oils, rubber, plastfcs, chemically-
treated materials, sheet rock, paint and garbage. You can find the
complete list on the city’s website or on the MN DNR’s website at:
www.dnr.state.mn.us/forestry/fire.
Firearm Safety Class (Updated 10/16/2015)
Corcoran Firearm Safety 2016 classes are scheduled for Sunday, March 20,
April 3, 10, 17 and 24, 2016, from 6:00 pm—9:00 pm at the Corcoran
Community Room. The class will culminate with Field Safety Day on
Saturday, April 30, 2016, from 8:00 am—3:00 pm. Registratfon opens
February 1, 2016. Youth ages 11 and older can attend a firearms safety
certfficatfon course and receive their
certfficate. The Firearms Safety
Certfficate 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.
Watch the City’s website at www.ci.corcoran.mn.us for more informatfon.
Hunting Reminder
Many of us look forward to fall as a great
tfme to be outdoors. It is possible that you
may hear gunshots in the distance when
you’re outside. Because huntfng is permis-
sible in most areas of the City of Corcoran,
we have citfzens who hunt or allow others to
hunt on their property with written permis-
sion. You can get a copy of the firearm
ordinances and regulatfons at City Hall, the
Police Department or on the City’s website.
You will need a license for the game you
wish to hunt. A person may not shoot, hunt
or discharge a deadly weapon or take a wild
animal with a firearm within 500 feet of any
structure or corral containing livestock
without written permission from the
landowner.
The Minnesota Department of Natural
Resources website has a vast amount of
informatfon on hunter safety, seasons,
regulatfons, licenses, and much more. Their
website is: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/
huntfng/index.html
Be an ethical hunter and follow safe huntfng
practfces. We ask that hunters respect
others and their property while huntfng.
Everyone has the right to enjoy the outdoors
safely.
Fast Fact: Negligent Storage of Firearms
(Minnesota Statute 609.666, Subd. 2)
A person is guilty of a gross misdemeanor who negligently stores or leaves a
loaded firearm in a location where the person knows, or reasonably should
know, that a child is likely to gain access, unless reasonable action is taken
to secure the firearm against access by the child.
The Corcoran Police Department shares
informatfon on Facebook and Twitter
regarding emergency informatfon,
weekly press releases, special events
and other happenings around the
community. View or follow the links
below for more informatfon:
Facebook:
www.facebook.com/pages/Corcoran-
Police-Department/459695357400188
Twitter:
www.twitter.com/corcoranpolice
Corcoran Police
Social Media
www.ci.corcoran.mn.us page 6 Fall/Winter 2015 www.ci.corcoran.mn.us
www.ci.corcoran.mn.us
Public Works — Snowplowing
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 conditfons. The safety of the public and the City employees is
a top priority.
Currently the City has more than 65 miles of roads that are maintained by the
Public Works department. The criteria for the decision to begin snow and/or ice
control operatfon are as follows:
Snow accumulatfon of two inches or more warrants the plowing of asphalt
roads, two to four inches warrants the plowing of
both asphalt and gravel roads dependent on road
conditfons. Call out is normally at 2:00 am when
practfcal.
High volume major collector roads and roads with
steep hills and curves receive first priority.
Safety of the plow operators and the public are
important. Therefore snowplowing operatfons may
be terminated afler 12-14 hours to allow personnel
adequate tfme to rest. High winds creatfng white out conditfons could cause
suspension of services untfl weather improves.
The City will assume no responsibility for damage to underground lawn sprinkling
systems, exterior lightfng systems, and similar landscaping installed in the public
right-of-way. To review the City approved policy 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 existfng 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 conditfon 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 regulatfons and MNDOT’s
specificatfons. 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 informatfon or to schedule the installatfon.
Fast Fact: Heavy Snow in the Winter
Did you know? Heavy snow thrown from the plow blade to the roadside
can cause mail box posts to tip or break off.
City Snowplow Policy
The Corcoran Police, Public Works and
the Hennepin County Highway
division would like to cautfon 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 depositfng
snow on roadways may also be liable
in a civil lawsuit if damages or injuries
that occur as a result of this actfon.
Under MN Statutes, Chapter 160.2715,
RIGHT-OF-WAY USE, violatfon 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 violatfons 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.
page 7 Fall/Winter 2015 www.ci.corcoran.mn.us
Recycling News Fast Fact: Recycling
Hennepin County residents, business-
es and organizations create enough
waste each year to fill Target Field
eleven times, but only 39 percent of
that waste is recycled. Help
Hennepin County reach a goal of
recycling half of all waste produced
in Hennepin County by 2015.
To help you get to half, recycling is
easier than ever. You can now
recycle more of what you buy,
including plastic cups and containers
(like cottage cheese containers,
yogurt cups and party cups), milk
and broth cartons, juice boxes, and
even organics.
Organic
Recycling
Options
(Updated October
14, 2015)
Did you know you
can recycle organics with no
additfonal fee through Randy’s
Environmental Trash Services? Blue
bags are required for organics re-
cycling and are free of charge. If you
are interested in recycling organics,
contact Randy’s Environmental
Services at 763-972-3335.
For more informatfon visit the City’s
website at www.ci.corcoran.mn.us
and select Services, Environmental
Recycling.
Practice Recycling
Remembering to recycle everything
from every room in your house can
sometfmes be challenging, especially
when you’re just trying to get the
laundry done or get ready for work.
About half of home recyclables never
make it to the recycling bin. We do
well recycling kitchen items, but our
bathrooms, laundry rooms and home
offices have lots of recyclables we
throw out. Expand your recycling habit
by using convenient recycling bins and
signage and mix in a little educatfon
and fun. Recycle everywhere in your
home with these tfps and tricks.
Make Recycling Easy
Start by putting a recycling bin, bag or
box next to every garbage can in your
house. Then label your bins with signs
so that everyone knows how to sort
their recycling and trash. If you have
limited space, get creatfve. Hang a bag
on the doorknob of your bathroom,
laundry room or office for recyclables.
Put a divider in your wastebasket to
make it trash on one side and recycling
on the other. You could also hang a
recycling container inside a cabinet or
mount them on a wall.
Recycle in Every Room
Did you know there are more than 20
items in the bathroom alone that are
recyclable?
Find more items to recycle by reviewing
this list:
Bathroom
Shampoo, soap, lotfon, mouthwash
and contact lens cleaner bottles.
Keep caps on plastfc bottles, but
remove and toss and pumps and
spray nozzles.
Boxes from toothpaste, medicatfon
and other toiletries
Empty medicine bottles
Empty toilet paper rolls
Plastfc containers from baby wipes
and cleaning wipes
Laundry Room
Laundry detergent and fabric
soflener bottles. Keep caps on
plastfc bottles.
Stain remover and other cleaner
bottles. Remove and toss spray
pumps.
Cat litter jugs and boxes
Dryer sheet and laundry detergent
boxes
Sofl cover books
Learn more tfps and get resources at
www.hennepin.us/recycleeverywhere
page 8 Winter 2015
Corcoran Recycling News – New Payment Options
The City has partnered with Randy’s Environmental Services for billing to
provide additfonal payment optfons to residents for their recycling services.
Startfng in 2016, Randy’s Environmental Services, the City’s residentfal
recycling contractor will be billing residents directly for recycling services.
You can now pay by Credit Card or echeck on the Randy’s website. As in
prior years, you will receive your annual recycling bill in early 2016. The late
charge for past due recycling fees will be 1.5% monthly of the annual fee
and a one-tfme $10.00 late fee. If the recycling fees are not paid by August
31 of each year, recycling fees will be certffied to Hennepin County and will
be added to your property tax bill. For more informatfon, contact the City
of Corcoran at 763-420-2288.
www.ci.corcoran.mn.us page 8 Fall/Winter 2015
page 9 Winter 2015
Parks & Recreation
Corcoran Skating Rinks
Corcoran's skatfng rinks offer fun and recreatfon 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. Public Works has a goal to get the rinks
open the week of Christmas break and keep them open untfl mid-February. If rinks
don’t have complete coverage, they can be unsafe for skaters. Pending weather
conditfons can lead to late openings and early rink closings.
Once the rinks are open, depending on weather
conditfons, the Public Works crew cleans and
resurfaces them daily, M–F and weekend
mornings. (Roads and public safety are first
prioritfes.) 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.
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 Public Works Department at 763-420-2652
City of Corcoran Seeks Rink Attendants
The City is seeking Rink Attendants to oversee the city’s ice rinks. Typically, these
seasonal positfons are open from December through March contfngent on
weather conditfons. A complete job descriptfon and applicatfon can be obtained
from the City Hall and found on the city’s website at www.ci.corcoran.mn.us. Rink
Attendant applicatfon deadline is 4:00 pm on Friday, November 20, 2015.
Three River Parks Elm Creek Winter Activities
The Winter Recreatfon Area at Elm Creek Park Reserve features a lighted tubing
hill with lifls and snowmaking, a beginner-level downhill ski and snowboard hill,
and almost 18 km of cross-country ski trails.
Afler the actfon, winter sports enthusiasts can
warm their toes and grab a hot cocoa at the
Chalet. A blend of modern and rustfc, the Chalet
provides equipment rental, concessions, public
seatfng 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.threeriverparks.org/parks/elm-creek-park/winter-recreatfon-
area.aspx for more informatfon.
2015 Corcoran
Recycling Schedule
For more information regarding
recycling, please contact
Randy’s Environmental Services at
763-972-3335 or
visit their website at
www.randyssanitatfon.com
page 9 Fall/Winter 2015 www.ci.corcoran.mn.us
Parks & Recreation
City of Corcoran Area Snowmobile Trails
Corcoran’s snowmobile trails are setup
and maintained by the Northwest Trails
Associatfon. Northwest Trails is an
organizatfon of enthusiastfc and
committed snowmobilers in Hennepin
County and the northwest suburbs of
Minneapolis, MN. Northwest Trails
Associatfon was formed as a non-profit
volunteer organizatfon in 1973.
Its mission is to support a safe, adventurous and friendly snowmobiling
experience primarily through trail coordinatfon, safety educatfon, and club
actfvitfes of value to members. Northwest Trails meets at 7:30 pm on the first
Tuesday of each month at the Medina Entertainment Center in Medina. The
Trail Associatfon's goal is to build and maintain snowmobile trails in north-
western Hennepin County with the help of the Minnesota Department of
Natural Resources and its Grant-in-Aid Program.
Northwest Trails has created over 150 miles of groomed trails throughout
northwestern Hennepin County for all to enjoy. Permission to construct and
maintain these trails has been granted by private landowners as well as
government agencies. Our trail runs through the Hennepin Parks and park
reserves of: Morris T. Baker, Crow-Hassan, and Elm Creek. The Wright Country
Trail System is accessible from several locatfons.
Our success with the trail system and the acknowledgement of snowmobiling
as a sport, is attributed to the willingness of landowners who let snowmobilers
travel on their private property. We, as an associatfon, are very grateful to all
the landowners for extending this privilege to Northwest Trails and the
snowmobilers who use the trails.
It takes many hours of volunteered labor to mark and maintain our trail system
throughout the year. We begin putting out the trail signs in October for the
December 1 trail opening and removing the signs in April. The trails are
groomed using a modern Tucker Sno-Cat and our custom built drags.
The future of snowmobiling depends on all snowmobilers working together to
promote the sport. Being a member of the Northwest Trails Associatfon is a
way to promote safe, responsible snowmobiling as well as supportfng a good
local trail system for snowmobiling. Snowmobile Safety Training is also an
offering coordinated by our club.
Family involvement is encouraged. Our social actfvitfes include: dinner outfngs,
club work nights and group snowmobile trips. By joining Northwest Trails, you
will also become a member of the Minnesota United Snowmobile Associatfon
(MnUSA), from which you will receive their many benefits.
For Trail Updates please view www.nwtrails.net/changes.htm.
page 10 Fall/Winter 2015 www.ci.corcoran.mn.us
Snowmobile
Safety & Training
Sponsored by the Northwest Trail
Association
The Northwest Trails Associatfon is an
organizatfon of enthusiastfc and
committed snowmobilers in Hennepin
County and the NW suburbs of
Minneapolis. Its mission is to support a
safe, adventurous, and friendly
snowmobiling experience primarily
through coordinatfon, safety
educatfon, and club actfvitfes of value
to members.
Corcoran will be a hostfng site for the
snowmobile training course at the
Corcoran Community Room. To register
for the class, go to the NW Trails website
at http://nwtrails.net/safety.htm (space
is limited).
Supplies Needed: Training CDs can be
picked up free of charge at Corcoran
City Hall or by contactfng the DNR at
651-296-6157.
Important Info: Students must bring
with a copy of their birth certfficate
and a printout from the CD training,
verifying completfon of the written test
on November 27. Completfon of class
will not be allowed if this step is not
confirmed.
Classes: Friday, November 27 from
7:00 pm to 9:00 pm (parents are
required to attend) and Saturday,
November 28 from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm
is the outdoor practfcal course.
Questions: Please call Randy Baudler
at 763-420-5526 or email at
youthsafetytraining@gmail.com.
All Minnesotans born after December 31,
1976, must have a safety certificate to
operate a snowmobile in the state. If you
have a driver’s license, this certification will
be indicated on your license.
Corcoran Happenings
Twelfth Annual Corcoran Country Daze
Sponsored by the NW Area Jaycees
It was a hot, humid weekend as Country Daze took place on
August 14 and 15, but organizers didn’t mind the heat, as
long as it wasn’t raining! A special thanks to everyone who
worked so hard to make the event such a success, including
the many local businesses and clubs who sponsor the event
and make the Free Family Day possible.
Big events to draw a crowd were FREE ACTIVITIES FOR THE
CHILDREN during Saturday’s Family Day which included
inflatables, rock climbing wall, face paintfng, pony rides,
petting zoo and more. The City had tables set up with
informatfve handouts along with city maps and City staff
representatfves were present to answer questfons and concerns. The police
department was also busy giving out free children's ID badges. The band Maiden
Dixie took the stage Friday night and Shane Martfn Saturday night, with a pause at
dark for a thrilling fireworks display. School supplies and cash donatfons were
accepted for local charitfes. A photo album is available online on the NW Area
Jaycees Facebook page www.facebook.com/nwareajaycees.
Mark your calendars for next year, August 19 and 20. More will be posted as the
event draws near at www.countrydaze.org and via the Northwest Jaycees
Facebook page at www.facebook.com/nwareajaycees. Let them know if you would
like to help, volunteers are always appreciated!
page 11 Fall/Winter 2015 www.ci.corcoran.mn.us
NW Area Jaycees
Holiday Dates
Santa Claus Is Coming to
Corcoran!
Date: Saturday, December 5, 2015
Time: 10:00 am to noon
Where: Corcoran Community Room
8200 County Road 116
Activities are free with a non-
perishable food shelf donation.
Pictures will be taken by a
professional photographer with
Santa, plus kids get to pick a free
small gift from under the NW
Jaycee’s holiday tree. Cookies and
juice will be provided. Kids can also
enter a prize drawing for larger
gift items.
The Easter Bunny Makes a
Stop in Corcoran!
Date: Saturday, March 26, 2016
Time: 10:00 am
Where: Corcoran Soccer Fields
(Rockford Multi-Use Fields)
20300 County Road 50
The NW Area Jaycees will host their
annual Egg Hunt on March 26, 2016!
Don’t be late or you’ll miss out! Held
outdoors so dress appropriately. Free
event and geared for ages 0-10 with age
appropriate treats in each age category.
Bring your baskets to gather up the
goodies. Turn in any prize eggs found for
larger gifls! Bring your cameras for
pictures with the Easter Bunny! The hunt
is located at the 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 Jaycees Facebook page for
event details as the date draws near:
www.facebook.com/nwareajaycees.
Summerfest Thank You to Volunteers
Sponsored by the Northwest Pioneer Society
At this year’s Summerfest, the Northwest Pioneer
Society celebrated the seven original School Districts
that once served the Corcoran area, including
Burschville School District 107 on County Road 10,
Morin School District 134 on Willow Road, Clearview
School District 136 on Strehler Road, Oakdale School
District 67 on Bechtold Road, Oswald School District 66
on Cain Road, Corcoran School District 65 on Larkin
Road, and French Corcoran School District 64 on County Road 50. In the late 1800’s,
the seven School Districts symbolized an era of one-room learning, and small class
sizes, in Corcoran’s vibrant, farming community. It’s possible that one of schools
mentioned were located near your home or neighborhood! As the years passed, three
of the schools were destroyed, three schools were converted into private homes, and
Burschville School District 107 was restored, and remains a historical community
landmark to remind us what school life was like before it was closed in 1967.
Northwest Pioneer Society is a non-profit organization. Funds are raised to maintain
the grounds, the school and to preserve the collection of school items on display.
Please consider becoming a member of the Northwest Pioneer Society to help
conserve our historical site and school. The school is open and available for viewing
seasonally and closed during the winter. If you would like more information about the
Northwest Pioneer Society, or if you have any school class photos you would like to
share, please contact Betty at 763-286-0877, Bonnie at 763-420-3440 or Verneal at
763-498-8677.
Corcoran Happenings 2015 Corcoran
Event Calendar
Oct 13: Community Design Workshop
City Hall Community Room
5:30 pm
Oct 16: Haunted Acres Opens!
Corcoran Lion’s Park
Oct 24: Hope Community Church Dessert
and Comedy Night
County Road 30 and County Road 116
6:30 pm
Oct 24: Corcoran Pumpkin Carving
Lawn King (7555 County Road 116)
1:00 pm
Oct 30: Rockford Education Foundation
Super Hero Event
Medina Entertainment Center
6:30 pm
Nov 27: Snowmobile Classes Begin
Corcoran Community Room
7:00 pm
Dec 5: NW Area Jaycees Santa Visit
Corcoran Community Room
10:00 am
Dec 10: Truth and Taxation Hearing
City Council Chambers
7:00 pm
Dec 11: Hope Community Church Dinner
Theatre “Hope Radio Hour”
County Road 30 and County Road 116
6:00 pm
Dec 21: Budget and Levy Adoption
Meeting
City Council Chambers
7:00 pm
Feb 1: Registration Opens for Firearms
Safety Class
Visit www.ci.corcoran.mn.us for info
Mar 20: Fire Arms Safety Class Begins
Corcoran Community Room
8:00 am
Mar 26: NW Area Jaycees Egg Hunt
Corcoran Soccer Fields
10:00 am
Fast Fact
The Corcoran Lions celebrated 50 years of service
to the community on October 6, 2015!
Super Heroes Fall Fundraiser
Sponsored by the Rockford Education Foundation
The Rockford Educatfon Foundatfon annual fundraising event is scheduled
for Friday, October 30, 2015, at the Medina Ballroom. This year the event
theme is Super Heroes with the important message to “Be A Hero for
Educatfon!” This event supports funding for educatfonal needs not included
in the Rockford Area Schools general fund. To date the Rockford Educatfon
Foundatfon has raised over $700,000 in donatfons to support student
educatfon in Rockford Area Schools.
Attendees are welcome to dress up as a super hero (not required) and
compete in the costume contest! Dr. Chuck Ells of 45TV Instftute of
Laughter will MC the event that includes a silent auctfon, raftfe, games,
food, live dessert auctfon and dancing! The silent auctfon will be run online
through a mobile bidding site, which will allow guests to bid from their
phones or ipads, at the event or from anywhere! Please visit http://
Rockford15.myab.co to purchase tfckets to this event or register for the
silent auctfon. Support for the Foundatfon comes entfrely through
community contributfons! Contact Kelly Grimm at
kelly@rockfordfoundatfon.org if you would like to become a sponsor,
donate an auctfon item or have questfons about the event.
Rockford Education Foundation, independent from Rockford Public Schools, is a non-profit
501(3)(c) tax-exempt organization. It is run by a volunteer board of directors, dedicated to
providing valuable educational experiences and innovative projects for all students in the
Rockford Area Schools. The Foundation is a conduit between the school district and those
who wish to give money to support our schools. Visit www.rockfordfoundation.org to learn
more.
www.ci.corcoran.mn.us page 12 Fall/Winter 2015
Corcoran Happenings
Haunted Acres Prepares for Haunting Season!
Sponsored by Hamel Lions, NW Area Jaycees and Corcoran Lions
Come out and you will understand why Hamel Lions Haunted Acres was voted #1 in
Minnesota! The Hamel Lions Haunted House was established in 1997. From 1997 to
2008 three different locatfons existed. In 2010, the Hamel Lions, Corcoran Lions and
NW Area Jaycees united to establish the current Corcoran Lions Park locatfon as the
final destfnatfon for hauntfng fun! Each of the event locatfons have been donated by
local businesses.
Throughout the years, Haunted Acres has received accolades by several websites as
one of the best haunted attractfons in the state of Minnesota. With a few TV spots on Channel 9 morning news highlightfng
the event achievements, Haunted Acres is becoming an attractfon site for people looking for a spooktacular scare! Over the
years Haunted Acres has raised over $70,000 and 2,500 lbs of food for Interfaith Outreach and the Hanover Food Shelf.
Haunted Acres is completely volunteer operated. If you are interested in helping out on the Boo Crew this year, please click
here to apply, or visit www.hamellionshauntedacres.com and select Contact Us / Volunteer page to complete the online
volunteer form.
The first night of hauntfng begins on Friday, October 16! Don't forget an extra pair of underwear! For more informatfon on
hours and event rules please view the website at www.hamellionshauntedacres.com.
Hope Community Church Upcoming Events
Sponsored by Hope Community Church
Hope Community Church located at County Roads 30 and 116, has been actfve in the Corcoran community since it
was founded in 1997. One of the key ways they serve is through community events such as the Corcoran 5K,
children’s sports camps, comedy nights, and Christmas events. Here are some opportunitfes coming up to bring a
little joy and laughter to
your life.
Dessert & Comedy Night with Rex Havens
Saturday, October 24, 6:30 pm
Tickets $15 in advance/$18 at the door
Purchase tfcket at www.myhopecommunity.org or call 763-494-4673
Quite simply the funniest show about men, women, family and marriage, with
more laughs per minute, performed with affectfon and respect for the different
worlds men and women inhabit. No bashing or cheap shots, just hilarious, original
thoughts on marriage from the author of “Everything I Needed To Know I Learned
From My Wife.”
Christmas Dinner Theatre “Hope Radio Hour”
Friday, December 11, 2015
Doors Open 6:00 pm/Dinner serve 6:30 pm
Tickets $25 per person/$160 for table of 8
Purchase tfckets at www.myhopecommunity.org/dinner or call 763-494-4673
The 13th Annual “Hope Radio Hour” is a delightiul night of comedy, laughter, and reflectfon in
celebratfon of the birth of Christ. Enjoy a delicious catered dinner, creatfve comedy skits, and
beautfful musical performances.
page 13 Fall/Winter 2015 www.ci.corcoran.mn.us
Corcoran Happenings
Corcoran Pumpkin Carving—October 24 (1:00-4:00pm)
Sponsored by Lawn King
For a fun, family pumpkin carving experience, Lawn King, in conjunctfon with other
local businesses, are sponsoring an easy alternatfve to the mess of carving
pumpkins. Stop by Lawn King on October 24, purchase a pumpkin, carve your
pumpkin with the supplied tools and templates available in the pumpkin carving
room, and the pumpkin mess will be whisked away! Afler your carving is complete,
your pumpkin is eligible for the best carved
pumpkin contest (judging begins at 4:00pm)! A
magician, face painter and other actfvitfes will
round out the pumpkin carving day!
Proceeds from hot dogs sales will be donated
to the Hanover Food Shelf. For more
informatfon, visit the Lawn King website at
www.lawnkingnursery.com.
www.ci.corcoran.mn.us page 14 Fall/Winter 2015
NW Area Jaycees Wreath Sales
Sponsored by NW Area Jaycees
The NW Area Jaycees are teaming up with the
Rockford High School 2016 Prom Committee for the
annual Holiday Wreath/Centerpiece Fundraiser.
Have you purchased your holiday wreath and
centerpiece yet? If not, please consider ordering
from the NW Area Jaycees and the Rockford High
School 2016 Prom Committee. There are 3 sizes of wreaths and one
centerpiece optfon available. Costs: 25” wreaths are only $15, 36” wreaths
are $25, 48” wreaths are $40, and centerpieces are $20. Pick up will be on
Saturday November 28, at the Corcoran City Hall or by arrangement the
following week. If you are interested in ordering, please contact Marcia
Carlson via email at rockfordprom2016@gmail.com or phone 763-477-5121.
The Holiday Train
The Canadian Pacific Holiday Train is making its way to
Loretto, Sunday, December 13, at 4:15 pm, as it makes its
way across Canada and the US raising donatfons for food
shelves. In 2014, the Holiday Train event raised over
$28,000 and 7,000 lbs. of food for our local food shelves in
Hanover, Rockford, Delano and Maple Plain. It’s all about
helping the local area food shelves – all the events are
free to the public. Please bring a food donatfon as 100% of
the donatfons go directly to the local food shelves.
Visit www.cpr.ca/en/community/holiday-train/schedule for informatfon about the
2015 Holiday Train event dates.
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 a.m. to 12:30
p.m. 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.
page 15 Fall/Winter 2015 www.ci.corcoran.mn.us
General Information
Winter Weather Awareness
Normally, when a winter storm is expected, the Natfonal
Weather Service will issue a winter storm watch. A winter
storm watch means that conditfons exist for the occurrence
of severe winter weather such as blizzard conditfons, heavy
snow, significant freezing rain, or sleet.
A winter storm watch is your signal to prepare for the storm
now. Once the storm begins, travel may not be possible.
Preparing at Home and at Work
Don’t forget, you may not be at home when the storm
strikes! Have emergency supplies available at your place of
work.
Remaining inside protected from the elements is the safest
place during a winter storm. Consider a plan for the
potentfal loss of heat, power, telephone service, and a
shortage of supplies if the storm persists. Here is a checklist
you can use
to be prepared.
Preparing for the Indoors
• Flashlight with extra batteries;
• Battery powered weather radio and portable radio;
• Extra food and water, especially high energy food that
requires no cooking or refrigeratfon such as dried fruit
and canned goods (don’t forget the nonelectric can
opener);
Medicine, first aid supplies, and ample baby supplies;
• Emergency heating source, such as a stocked fireplace,
wood stove, or space heater;
• Smoke detector and fire extinguisher, the chance of fire
increases dramatfcally using alternatfve heatfng!
Carbon monoxide detector.
Preparing Your Vehicle
About 70% of deaths during an ice or snow storm occur in a
vehicle. If you questfon if you should attempt to travel, then
don’t! If you must travel then allow extra tfme. Reduce your
speed and do not attempt to make sudden turns or stops.
Winterize the vehicle so it will be reliable. This includes a
good set of tfres.
Other items necessary for the car or truck include:
• Dry blanket(s) or sleeping bag
• Extra dry clothing
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• High calorie non-perishable food
(i.e., granola bars or power bars)
• Snow shovel, windshield scraper, and brush
• Sack of sand, rock salt, or kitty litter for traction
• Booster cables
• First aid kit and a small container for water
Maps, compass, knife, and water proof matches
Stay informed of the latest weather forecast. Being
prepared before the storm hits will keep you and your
family from unnecessary risk.
WINTER STORM WARNING
A winter storm warning means that severe winter weather
such as heavy snow, significant freezing rain, or sleet is
expected. A blizzard warning means that sustained or gusty
winds of 35 mph or more are expected to reduce visibility at
or below a quarter of a mile due to falling and/or blowing
snow. The issuance of the winter storm warning is your
signal to take steps necessary to keep you, your family, and
pets or animals safe during the storm. All unnecessary
travel should be delayed untfl the storm is over. If you get
stranded in your vehicle and shelter is not visible nearby,
stay in your vehicle.
• Run the motor for about ten minutes each hour for heat.
Keep the tailpipe free from snow and open the window
slightly from tfme to tfme to let in fresh air.
• Make yourself visible by turning on the dome light while
the engine is running and tfe a colored cloth to your
antenna or door.
Most deaths and injuries during winter storms can be
prevented. When shoveling snow or doing other actfvitfes in
the cold, you should always set a slow pace. Take frequent
breaks and warm yourself regularly. Frostbite can occur
from exposure to the cold. Frostbite causes a loss of feeling
and usually occurs in extremitfes such as face, toes or
fingers first. When treatfng frostbite, always make sure the
affected area is dry and then warm it slowly.
Fast Fact
The winter of 2013-14 from December-February in the Twin Cities was the coldest Meteorological Winter in 35 years. The
average winter temperature in the Twin Cities was 9.7 degrees, or nine degrees below normal. This is the coldest winter since
1978-79 which was 9.4 degrees. February 2014 wound up being in a three-way tie for the seventh coldest and was also the
sixth snowiest.
~Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Corcoran News is published quarterly by
the City of Corcoran to update residents
and businesses on city government news.
City Council
Ken Guenthner, Mayor
763-478-6699
general@ci.corcoran.mn.us
Pat Hank, Councilor
general@ci.corcoran.mn.us
Mike Keefe Councilor
mkeefe13@msn.com
Tonya LaFave, Councilor
tonyalafave@gmail.com
Ron Thomas, Councilor
general@ci.corcoran.mn.us
City Administrator
Brad Martens
763-400-7030
bmartens@ci.corcoran.mn.us
City of Corcoran
Main Office — 763-420-2288
Hours:
Monday-Friday
8:00 a.m. — 4:00 p.m.
Upcoming Meetings
Planning & Commission Meetings
Nov. 5, Dec. 3
7:00pm
Parks & Trails Commission Meetings
Oct. 20, Nov. 17, Dec. 15
7:00pm
Corcoran City Council Meetings
Oct. 22, Nov. 12 & Nov. 23,
Dec. 3 & Dec 21
7:00pm
City Website
www.ci.corcoran.mn.us
Truth & Taxation Notices
The Hennepin County Finance
Department will be mailing Truth in
Taxatfon notfces to all county property
owners beginning in early November.
The Truth in Taxatfon notfce serves two
purposes. First, it gives property owners
their proposed 2016 tax amount
approximately six months before the tax
is due. This lead tfme is intended to give
each property owner tfme to plan
financially for the payment of the tax.
Second, it breaks down the total
proposed tax due on each property by
taxing district (city, county, school
district, Metropolitan Council and misc.
levies) and lists the tfme, date and place
Delinquent Utility Charges
All delinquent utflity bills are subject to
certfficatfon to Hennepin County for
collectfon. Outstanding recycling, dust
control, and property management
charges not paid will be certffied to
Hennepin County for collectfon in 2016.
Additfonal late charges and fees will be
added to the delinquent amount if not
paid by due date.
Grading & Filling
Prior to performing any grading or
filling on your property, please contact
City Hall. Property owners should be
aware of the various regulatfons that
protect wetlands, floodplains, and
other water ways. Many actfvitfes will
require a basic permit. Typically,
engineering review is required when
you exceed 300 cubic yards of material,
but there are also tfmes when a permit
will not be required. Due to the
locatfon of the work or the impact it
may cause, such as by altering existfng
drainage, guidance and inspectfons
from the city engineer or other staff
person is required. The intent is not to
create a burden on any property
owner, but to help protect propertfes
from any negatfve impacts. Please
contact Mike Pritchard with questfons
at 763-400-7033.
of the Truth in Taxatfon meetfng that
each taxing district is required to hold.
You, as a property owner or interested
citfzen, may attend any of these
meetfngs and voice your opinion about
the budget and spending of that
partfcular district. Afler the Truth in
Taxatfon hearing has concluded, each
taxing district finalizes its tax rate and
approves its budget. It is important to
remember that the purpose of these
meetfngs to address the budget of each
taxing district, not the estfmated
market value of your property. The
market value of your property may be
addressed at the local board of review
which is held in April or May.
PRST STD
US POSTAGE PAID
ROGERS, MN
PERMIT NO. 98 City of Corcoran
8200 County Road 116
Corcoran, MN 55340
page 16 Fall/Winter 2015 www.ci.corcoran.mn.us
General Information