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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2010-03 -- Spring 1 It’s a new year and the staff, council and commissions have much information they would like to share with you. Please take a moment of your time to relax, put your feet up and bring yourself up to date with projects and changes we have made in Corcoran. YYoouurr CCoonncceerrnnss MMaatttteerr TToo UUss!! It is important we keep our residents involved as much as we can on special meetings, safety issues, events and activities. City staff is currently researching ways to correspond with you in a timely manner. Staff has agreed the most efficient way would be communicating through an automated phone system. Another method we currently have in place is e-mail. Call City Hall and ask to be added to our list for emails to receive the Council agenda packets. Enclosed is a brief questionnaire addressing some concerns, and we would like your feedback. Please take a moment to review the questionnaire and enter any comments you may have. We encourage you to return it to City Hall by April 15th. This will give us ample time to further research and present our findings to the City Council for approval of any purchase from our Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) funding or Tax Increment Financing (TIF) spending. This newsletter was designed by city staff and a volunteer group dedicated to improving our communications about the city’s activities, and educate you on environmental and safety concerns. If you have an idea for an article or would like to volunteer for a specific area or project at City Hall, please call 763-420- 2288 x10. CITY OFFICE INFORMATION 8200 - County Road 116 Corcoran, MN 55340 Phone 763-420-2288 Fax 763-420-6056 Email - general@ci.corcoran.mn.us Website - www.ci.corcoran.mn.us City Hall Office Hours Monday – Friday 8am to 4pm City Council Meetings Second & Fourth Thursday of each month at 7:00pm Planning Commission Meetings First Thursday of each month at 7:00pm Parks & Trails Meetings Third Tuesday of each month at 7:00pm “Let your voice be heard” March 2010 SPRING NEWSLETTER CITY OF CORCORAN TABLE OF CONTENTS From the Mayor & Council 2 Board of Review 3 Commission & Committees 4 Parks & Trails 5 Public Works 6 Police 7 Safety & Environment 8 Environment continued 9 Events & Activities 10 Corcoran Bulletin Board 11 WELCOME OUR NEW CITY STAFF MEMBERS The City has recently hired two new administrative staff members. On December 28, 2009, the City filled the vacant full-time Deputy Clerk/ Bookkeeper position with Jeanie Heinecke. Jeanie comes to the City offering more than 20 years of bookkeeping and office experience. Tanya Wagner will be replacing the current part-time receptionist with added responsibilities as an Administrative Assistant. Tanya comes to the City with seven years of combined government experience from the City of Dayton and the City of Plymouth. ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF Dan Donahue – City Administrator – Ext. 13 Jeanie Heinecke – Deputy Clerk/Bookkeeper – Ext. 15 Jill Smith-Arens – Office Manager – Ext. 10 Tanya Wagner – Administrative Assistant – Ext. 18 2 FROM THE MAYOR Greetings! Another great newsletter from our staff and volunteers. For many of you, this newsletter may be the only information you receive about city affairs. We try to provide an array of useful, comprehensive information that will help you understand what’s going on, city opportunities that may exist for you, and basic responsibilities you may have as a resident of Corcoran. Please do not hesitate to call our staff at City Hall, council members, or me with any questions or concerns. Good reading. Mayor Ken Guenthner FROM THE COUNCIL PPLLAANNSS TTOO UUPPDDAATTEE OORRDDIINNAANNCCEESS Staff has developed a plan to accomplish the updating of the city ordinances impacted by the adoption of the 2030 Comprehensive Plan and necessitated by two grants awarded to the city this past year (both grants were written around the requirements of the 2030 Comprehensive Plan). The two grants are from 1000 Friends and the State DNR. The 1000 Friends Grant is to be used for the implementation of the Comp Plan and the DNR Grant is to be used for updating ordinances that manage and preserve the natural resources of the city. The intent of the plan is to integrate efforts by staff and city planners so the two grants plus some budgeted city funds will work together to achieve the satisfactory outcomes that are consistent with the city council’s vision/goals and with the two grant awarding bodies. In summary the plan is as follows:  There is available $55,000 in funding for 2010 to accomplish the plan  $10,000 from the approved 2010 city budget  $21,000 from the 1000 Friends grant  $21,500 from the DNR grant  The two grants together require $18,000 in matching funds (each is $9,000)  The matching funds will be made up in part by:  Applying the 1000 Friends funds to the DNR match requirement  Using some of the $10,000 city funds  The plan breaks down the ordinance update effort into five group areas:  Greenway and tree/landscaping preservation  Open Space Preservation and growth management  Updating zoning map, Use Districts, and subdivision ordinance  Creating new mixed use zoning districts and updating the PUD ordinance  Update general requirements and provide for community education  These five group areas contain 26 “must-complete” or high priority tasks identified by staff and council. These are for the most part also required in the plans of the two grants Background Staff has been working with City Planner Kendra Lindahl and the planner from Bonestroo, Tina Goodroad, to take the direction from the council and fashion a plan that meets the council’s goals of updating the city ordinances and stays within the city budget. The following are difficulties to be met in order to achieve the plan objectives:  Financial reporting must be sufficiently detailed in order to meet the requirements of the two grant-making agencies and the city council’s overall objective of staying within budget, as well as provide for sufficient forecasting in order to determine where the plan’s performance (and budget) is at any point in time.  The efforts of the two consulting staff members must be coordinated so they function together and work efficiently. Those efforts then must be synchronized with those of staff, committees, and any other identified groups that will be involved in the process.  There are many assumptions within the plan, but the most important is that the many stakeholders in the community (council, commissions, property owners, citizens, and business owners) can reach consensus in order to meet the deadline and agree on the recommended outcomes of the approximately 26 task areas.  Most of the 26 task areas must be implemented nine months after the final adoption of the 2030 Comprehensive Plan.  This adoption will most likely occur in April of this year. The updates then should be in place in January or February of 2011. 3 NEW MARKET VALUES WILL BE MAILED IN MARCH BOARD OF REVIEW DATE IS SET Each year the City of Corcoran begins another round of property assessments to establish valuations for the next year’s property tax statements. The city uses its portion of the collected property taxes to fund services such as police and fire protection, street and park maintenance, utilities and government administration. Establishing property values requires careful valuation of every house and knowledge of the overall housing market year by year. There are four major steps to establishing accurate assessments: 1. About every fifth year, an appraiser reviews your property, inside and out. 2. The appraiser gathers information on property characteristics that affect market value, such as size, age, quality, and accessory structures. 3. An assessor analyzes actual sales of property in the city, reviewing last year’s open market sales to determine the sale price of similar properties. 4. The property characteristics are entered into a computer appraisal system, and information is updated to reflect market trends and the value of each property. STEPS TO APPEAL If you disagree with the city’s value assessment of your property, follow these steps for appeal (established by Hennepin County): STEP 1: Talk to your assessor. Call the number listed on your valuation notice you receive in the mail mid-March and discuss your concerns and sales information. If you can’t resolve the problem, move to step two. STEP 2: Attend the Board of Appeal and Equalization (Open Book Style) meeting 6 p.m. April 8th at City Hall. Appeal in person, by letter, or by designated representative. Tell assessors ahead of time you will be attending the meeting so they can bring the appropriate information. If the problem is not resolved, move to step three. STEP 3: Attend the County Board of Appeal and Equalization, which meets in June. Appeal in person, by letter, or by designated representative. STEP 4: The property characteristics are entered into a computer appraisal system, and information is updated to reflect market trends and the value of each property. The City of Corcoran contracts with Greater NW Office of Real Estate to appraise the market value of your home. The city works with Assessor Ann Risch. She can be reached at 763-473-3978. The market value estimated by the assessor should be very close to the amount the property would sell for if placed on the open market. (State law defines the market value as “the usual selling price at the time of assessment.”) The value and classification of real estate must be established by January 2nd every year. Seeking Applicants for Charter Commission The City of Corcoran will have four open seats on the Corcoran Charter Commission in June 2010. The function of a Charter Commission is to continue to study the local charter and government. The Commission’s work plan for 2010 is to meet four times throughout the year. Applications and more information are available on the city’s website: www.ci.corcoran.mn.us under the tab City Officials, Council and Commission Information. Completed applications can be submitted at City Hall by Friday, April 2,, 2010. 4 COMMISSIONS AND COMMITTEES Corcoran Receives “Hennepin Youth Sports Program Grant” In the fall of 2009 the Parks & Trails Commission, along with Corcoran Athletic Association, Public Works, and City Administration, decided that something should to be done to accommodate the overwhelming participation in Corcoran’s summer T-ball league (ages 4- 6). By the end of October the city had applied for a grant through the Hennepin County Youth Sports Program to help construct two additional T-ball fields at City Park. This program is funded with excess collections from Hennepin County’s 0.15% sales tax, which was recently created to finance the new Twins stadium, Target Field. Its intent is to provide fundamental youth sports opportunities to Hennepin County areas that would otherwise have difficulty supporting such activities. Corcoran was awarded a $10,000 grant in late December for projects to be undertaken in 2010. The grant agreement will enable the city to recover two thirds of the total project cost, up to $10,000, to construct the new fields. Public Works will be constructing the fields at a location just west of the pond and north of Lion’s Field. The fields and the improved seating accommodations will be available for game one of the 2010 season. Way to go, team! MENS SOFTBALL LEAGUES It was discussed at the February Parks and Trail meeting that the Jaycees will take over the operations of the men’s softball league sign-up for the city. Anyone interested in registering a team for the spring league should contact Troy Nygaard at 612-490-0836. There was also discussion that their name has been changed to the Northwest Area Jaycees. The organization consists of people ages 21-40 who are dedicated to providing individual development and leadership training through community work. The Corcoran Jaycees is a not-for-profit community organization that volunteers its time to raise money through community projects, fundraisers, and charitable gambling for the needs of the community and its people. It brings them great joy to serve others and make new friends and connections along the way. To become a member, go to their website at www.corcoranjaycees.org. Reminder – You do not have to be a resident of Corcoran to join the Northwest Area Jaycees. They serve the communities around Corcoran and have members from surrounding cities. Invite a friend to join with you! Planning Commission The City of Corcoran has open alternate seats for the Planning Commission. The Planning Commission is responsible for aiding in decision-making by the City Council on planning/zoning matters. After review and research of pertinent information regarding the matter, it then makes its recommendation to the City Council. The Planning Commission meets the first Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at City Hall. This is a great way to get involved in the community! We have three alternate seats open. Applications can be picked up at City Hall and are on the city’s website. AN ORDINACE AMENDING CHAPTER 70 OF THE CORCORAN CITY CODE RELATING TO TRAFFIC RULES No person shall drive or operate a motor vehicle, motorized bicycle or motorized foot scooter on any street, highway, road, roadway or private property in a manner which is unsafe. Unsafe means, but is not limited to, speeds and/or maneuvers that are not reasonable, prudent or safe given the weather, road conditions, vehicle conditions, the proximity of persons and other vehicles and includes such driving or operation which is unsafe for the driver or operator. Penalty. A person convicted of a violation of this Ordinance, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and punished by a fine of not more than $1,000, imprisonment for a term not exceeding ninety (90) days, or any combination thereof; provided, however, that if the violation is declared to be a petty misdemeanor, the penalty shall be a fine not to exceed $300. Additionally, a person convicted of a violation of this Ordinance shall pay the costs of prosecution. AN ORDINACE AMENDING SECTION 70.02 OF THE CORCORAN CITY CODE RELATING TO WEIGHT RESTRICTIONS City Council also amended this ordinance. A copy can be found on the city’s website or picked up at City Hall to review. 5 Submitted by Parks and Trails Commission The Parks and Trails Commission is looking forward to the building of our first Memorial Garden Park This Memorial Garden is the culmination of years of donations given to the Parks and Trails Commissions for the development of a garden park in the beautiful back yard of Corcoran City Hall. Memorials have been given in remembrance of loved ones who have passed, including Ron Johnson, who started Corcoran Jaycees, Pat Puhle, who faithfully volunteered at Corcoran City Hall and later became an employee, and Mike Milbrandt, husband of Rosalyn Milbrandt, a former Parks & Trails Commissioner and now a City Council member. The Corcoran Jaycees has pledged funds for the continued maintenance of the garden. The memorial garden will feature a cement walkway out the back doors of the Corcoran City Hall down to a white maintenance- free gazebo, surrounded by perennial gardens. This addition to our City Hall will enhance our ability to rent our Civic Center for garden weddings, anniversaries, and birthday and graduation parties. Our beautiful back yard will become a perfect spot for a picnic lunch, a photo shoot, a quiet resting spot for bird watchers or for wild life watching. Memorial bricks can still be purchased at City Hall. Bricks will be engraved to your specification. A 4” by 8” brick with three lines of 15 characters per line can be purchased for $25.00. An 8” brick with six lines of 15 characters per line can be purchased for $50.00. These bricks will be placed in the garden for all to see. Completion of phase I is scheduled for late summer 2010. “Land Matters” DVDs available at your local library Randall Arendt, renowned author, landscape architect and the country’s most sought-after speaker on the topic of creative development design, was in the Twin Cities last summer, sharing his ideas on Conservation Development Design. He was here as part of the Community Growth Options project (www.communitygrowthoptions.org), which includes Corcoran. Twin Cities public television (TPT) filmed his presentations. The result is “Land Matters – Smarter Subdivisions” and “Land Matters – Rethinking Main Street,” one-hour shows that are currently airing on the Minnesota channel of TPT. DVDs of both shows are now available though the Hennepin County Library system. Check out a copy today! If you would like to share some of your perennials from your personal gardens or would enjoy planting or weeding, please contact City Hall for details. GREENWAY CORRIDOR COMMITTEE IS FORMED This committee is made up of two members each from the Planning Commission, Parks and Trail Commission, City Council and four property owners. They will meet every other Monday starting March 8th. The purpose is to discuss the private property rights in balance with natural resource protection, trail development, etc to protect our corridors. Examples are woodland, native upland plant community protection and wildlife, to name just a few. What natural systems and resources are a value to Corcoran? The information in review will be based on the 2030 Comprehensive Plan. This document can be found on the City’s website. COMMITTEE IS SOLICITING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION If you have an idea, comment or concern, please call the City’s Administrator, Dan Donahue, and he will assist you. 6 PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT Road Restriction Update The City of Corcoran currently has road restrictions in effect. All trucks over 4 tons require a City issued permit. The City will only issue permit under emergency conditions. DUST CONTROL PROGRAM HEARING PLANNED There are currently two dust control programs available from the city: the Assessment Program and the Voluntary Program. Once again the city intends to begin with the dust control road applications the first part of June. Dust control is an assessment for residential streets that have been identified in the city’s Assessment Program. These property owners will receive a public hearing notice by mail, which tentatively is scheduled for April 22, 2010. At this hearing, the city will review roads scheduled to receive dust control and address any concerns or questions these residents may have. The cost for the program is then assessed to the benefiting property owners. The Voluntary Program is for residents who choose to have the area in front of their property treated with dust control. If your street is not part of the program and your neighborhood is interested in pursuing this, please contact City Hall to obtain information on how to petition for inclusion in the Assessment Program. The city will provide dust control at a charge of $220.00 for a 300-foot minimum. Areas in excess of 300 feet will be charged an additional amount. Residents interested in participating in the Voluntary Program must contact the City Hall and pre-pay for the application before May 18, 2010. If you have a concern regarding the streets or park maintenance, call Public Works at 763- 420-2652, because they are generally working off site, we ask that you please leave your name, a brief message and a number where you can be reached and someone will return your call within 48 hours. PUBLIC WORKS STAFF Public Works Superintendent - Pat Meister Street and Park Maintenance Equipment Operators - Clyde Bechtold, Brandon Heinz David Tiemann, Jeff Schmid Public Works Recommends Swing Arm Mail Box Supports Due to the heavy snowfall we had this winter, your mailbox may have been damaged from the snow being pushed against it. Mailboxes damaged by weight of heavy or wet snow and ice coming from the plow blade are your responsibility to repair or replace. ONLY properly installed mailbox supports PHYSICALLY STRUCK BY SNOWPLOW EQUIPMENT will be considered for repair or replacement with a standard residential mailbox and post. Mailboxes and paper boxes must be mounted at a minimum of 46” above the street level. This will enable the postal carriers to deliver your mail immediately and avoid the weight of the snow pushing against them, causing damage to the post. To avoid damages next winter, we recommend residents install the swing arm style of support. An example is set up outside the main doors of City Hall. Feel free to stop by to check it out. The cost to purchase the support post is $65.00 or $150.00 for post and installation by the Public Works Department. If you are interested in purchasing a mailbox support post or having one installed, call 763- 420-2288 ext. 19. The post will be installed by Public Works only between April and October. Allow 7 – 10 working days for scheduling of installation. 7 POLICE DEPARTMENT The Corcoran Police Department would like to welcome our newest part-time staff, Kevin Wagman and Bill Mathews. Officer Wagman started with the department February 13, 2009, and comes to the department with 25 plus years of experience. He currently works full-time for the Champlin Police Department and part-time for the Metropolitan Transit Department. Officer Mathews started on January 29, 2010, and comes to the department with more than 13 years of experience. He worked for the Zumbrota Police Department for 10 years, for the Goodhue County Sheriff’s Department for 1 year and for the Wayzata Police Department for 2 years. Both officers are a wonderful addition to the already experienced part-time Corcoran Police Department officer staff. The department employs seven part-time officers who fill in open shifts when necessary. They cover shifts during the officers’ training, court appearances and any unexpected absences. If you happen to see any of our officers, please feel free to introduce yourself to them. POLICE DEPARTMENT STAFF Full-time Police Chief Sean Gormley, Corporal John Hamilton, Officers Ryan Burns, Duane Hochstetler, Josh Hunter, Jesse Olson and Records Clerk Paula Steelman Part-time Officer Brian Fragodt, Tom Hartkopf, Jim Loomis, William Mathews, Ed Subject, Kevin Wagman, Joe Zerwas POLICE RESERVES The Corcoran Police Reserve unit is made up of a maximum of 10 volunteers who together donate hundreds of hours of service to the city. They assist police officers with a variety of duties: Patrol – The Reserves assist police officers on various types of calls. Reserves ride with the regular officers, or when qualified work a “Reserve Car” performing special duties and responding to calls that do not require a licensed officer and, if directed, assist police officers on other calls. Community Events - The Reserves provide traffic control and security for community and private events and celebrations. Reserve Officers handle medicals, crowd control, and traffic, which can be a challenge when the crowds are large and the locations spread out. They also assist neighboring departments with their activities. Emergency Callouts - One of the most important roles of the Reserves is to be available for emergencies on short notice. The following is a list of incidents at which Reserves have been called upon to assist: Fires Lost and missing children & adults Crime scene protection, search for murder weapons, hostage situations Fatal accidents Severe storms power outages Each Reserve volunteers a minimum of 15 hours a month. Included in these 15 hours are a monthly training meeting normally lasting three hours, and at least one squad patrol a month. In addition, Reserves are expected to attend additional training and work at special events throughout the year. Reminder - The Corcoran Police Department would like to remind our residents that if they need any police services, whether it is an emergency or not, to please dial 911 or call dispatch at 763-525-6220 to have an officer dispatched to handle the call. We also want to remind you to call 911 as soon as an incident happens. Waiting to call 911 may delay the possibility of resolving a situation or solving a crime. The police clerk is not able to dispatch an officer from the administrative office, but is able to help with any administrative service you may require, such as requests for reports or house checks. As a reminder and to help emergency responders in locating residences, please ensure; your address is clearly labeled on your house and both sides of your mailbox. If you share a driveway with a neighbor, please make sure the direction of each residence is clearly marked. Please remember to secure your residences, garages, sheds and all vehicles. Leaving anything unlocked is an open invitation for a thief. To give you peace of mind while you are on vacation or away on business, the Corcoran Police Department provides its residents with house checks. Contact Paula Steelman, the police clerk, to request a house check. 8 SAFETY / ENVIRONMENTAL It’s that time of year again and spring is right around the corner. The City of Corcoran would like to share some helpful tips provided by American Red Cross/ FEMA to keep us all safe during this upcoming season.  During an emergency, be prepared to do without services such as electricity, telephone service, natural gas and ATM machines. Keep a codeReady kit (see www.codeready.org) stocked with supplies such as battery-powered equipment, cell phones and extra cash for use in emergencies.  If a power outage appears likely, turn your refrigerator and freezer to the coldest setting possible. Then, if you lose power, your food will last longer before spoiling. Remember your refrigerator should normally be set at 40 degrees or colder, and your freezer between 0 and 10 degrees. Discard any perishable food that has been at over 40 degrees for more than two hours.  If schools and child care centers are canceled because of an emergency, who will care for your kids? Determine who can care for your children and include these details in your codeReady Plan.  Emergencies can occur while you’re at home, work, or school or in the car. Be prepared with a codeReady plan and kit that you’ve discussed with all family members. Tornado Awareness  Prepare a home tornado plan. Pick a place where family members could gather if a tornado is headed your way. It could be your basement or, if there is no basement, a center hallway, bathroom or closet on the lowest floor of your home. Keep this place uncluttered.  Conduct periodic tornado drills so everyone remembers what to do when a tornado is approaching.  Assemble a disaster supplies kit containing:  First aid kit and essentials medications.  Canned food and can opener. At least three gallons of water per person.  Clothing, bedding or sleeping bags.  Battery powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries.  Special items for infants, elderly or disabled family members.  Written instructions on how to turn off electricity, gas and water if authorities advise you to do so. (Remember, you’ll need a professional to turn natural gas service back on.)  Stay tuned for storm warnings. Listen to your local radio and TV stations for updated storm information. Know what a tornado WATCH and WARNING means: WATCH: a tornado watch means a tornado is possible in your area. WARNING: a tornado warning means that a tornado has been sighted in your area. Go to safety immediately.  When a tornado WATCH is issued-  Listen to local radio and TV stations for further updates.  Be alert to changing weather conditions. Blowing debris or the sound of an approaching tornado may alert you. Many people say it sounds like a freight train.  When a tornado WARNING is issued-  If you are inside, go to the safe place you picked to protect yourself from glass and other flying objects. The tornado may be approaching your area.  If you are outside, hurry to the basement of a nearby sturdy building or lie flat in a ditch or low-lying area.  If you are in a car or mobile home, get out immediately and head for safety (as above.)  After the tornado passes-  Watch out for fallen power lines and stay out of the damaged area.  Listen to the radio for information and instructions.  Use a flashlight to inspect your home for damage Do NOT use candles at any time. We hope these tips and reminders are helpful in your preparation for the upcoming storm season. For more information about how you can be prepared and connected in case of an emergency, log on to: www.codeready.org. 9 The City of Corcoran would like to remind local farmers of state rules and recommended practices to protect water quality when applying manure in the most common environmentally sensitive areas, such as streams, lakes, wetlands, open tile intakes, steep sloping land, road ditches, frequently flooded soils, high water table soils and high phosphorus soils. All people applying manure, including those who do not need a permit or written manure plan, are required to follow setbacks and other rules regarding sensitive areas. The State of Minnesota has more information about nitrogen rate limits, manure soil testing requirements, or manure management plan and record keeping. See the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) publication Land Application of Manure – Minimum State Requirements on- line at: www.pca.state.mn.us/hot/feedlot-managemnt or by calling the MPCA for information at: 1-800-657-3864 Compostable Yard Waste Bags Now the Law for 2010 Compostable plastic bags are distinct from regular plastic bags because they are usually clear or a green- tinted opaque color. To be sure you are buying the right bags; look for the words “Compostable” on the box. The words “lawn and leaf” or “yard waste” do not guarantee the bag is acceptable under the new rule. The new law affects residents in the following counties: Anoka, Carver, Hennepin, (excluding City of Mpls.), Ramsey, Scott and Washington. For more information on the Compostable plastic bag requirements and how they will affect you, visit www.RethinkRecycling.com CCCoooyyyooottteeesss aaannnddd OOOttthhheeerrr WWWiiilllddd AAAnnniiimmmaaalllsss With large open areas in Corcoran, coyotes, foxes and other wild animals can find inviting places to live and forage for food. We don’t always see them but that doesn’t mean they’re not here; occasionally an alert citizen will spot one of them and call the Corcoran Police Department with questions. Typically, coyotes are opportunistic hunters and will take advantage of the easiest and most available food sources. This includes many different types of food ranging from garbage to small mammals and birds. Unfortunately, they may infrequently also prey on domestic cats, small dogs or livestock, so it’s always a good idea to monitor your pets while they’re outside, even if you aren’t aware of anything in your area. Although coyotes can be a threat to domestic pets, they are not a threat to humans. In fact, according to the Minnesota DNR, there has never been a documented coyote attack on a human in Minnesota. Statistics from around the country show people are far more likely to be bitten by a domestic dog than to be bitten by a coyote. The DNR has more information about coyotes on its website: Take these precautions to ensure the safety of your pet  Do not leave pet food or garbage outside and do not intentionally feed coyotes.  Pets should be leashed and attended when walking in any recreational area as required by Corcoran ordinance. Do not leave dogs or cats outside unattended for any long period.  If confronted by a coyote, persons should shout or make some other loud noise to frighten the animal away. Residents should call 911 to report any aggressive coyote behavior and be aware of the potential harm coyotes could inflict on pets and take the above precautions. The Corcoran Police Department is addressing nuisance coyote activity by providing awareness and public education. In additional, the Police Department maintains a list of local coyote trappers who may be able to assist. If you have further questions, please call the Police Department at (763) 525-6220. Applying Manure in Sensitive Areas/ Water Protection Contact MPCA for recommendations and regulations to keep surface water and ground water from becoming polluted when applying manure. “THINK GREEN” RECYCLING BILLS ARE IN THE MAIL The City has recently installed a new utility billing software program. With this program we are able to mail and record the payments with one data source. This software will also be used for collecting additional information for all the residents and businesses in Corcoran. Because this program is new to all of the staff, we ask that you be patient and understand that the recycling will be our first billing. There is a slight increase from last year to an annual fee of $33.00. It is required that all residents be offered this service and the bill is paid by the due date or additional fees will be added. If you have a concern about your billing, please contact Jeanie at extension 15. 10 EVENTS & ACTIVITIES Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 1st from 8am-12 noon for Corcoran’s annual clean up day held at City Hall in the parking lot. This is a great opportunity for residents (with ID) to get rid of unwanted items, such as appliances, tires and other hard-to-dispose-of items. Vendors will be accepting items for a collection fee listed below. All tires MUST be removed from bikes, mowers, tractors, etc. Additional fees may be charged for items not mentioned or disposal of large quantities. We accept residential refuse only--NO PAINT. Flammable products or commercial waste will be taken. Electronics Lawn & Garden/ Tires CCCOOOMMMEEE AAANNNDDD MMMEEEEEETTT TTTHHHEEE EEEAAASSSTTTEEERRR BBBUUUNNNNNNYYY!!! Rain or shine, 10:00 am SHARP at Corcoran City Hall, Saturday April 3rd, Corcoran Jaycees will once again sponsor their annual egg and candy hunt. Bring a basket or bucket to hunt for goodies and to meet the Easter Bunny. Find the right egg and win a prize. There will also be craft projects and coloring for fun! See their website at www.corcoranjaycees.org for more information on events or becoming a member of this organization. Appliances $10 Chain Saw $10 A/C, Water Softener $15 Lawn Mower (push) $10 PC Monitors up to 17” $15 Lawn Mower (rider) $25 PC Monitors 18” and up $25 Snow Blower $10 Sm. Printers/ Scanners $5 Weed Whacker $10 VCR/DVD $5 Leaf Blower/ Roto Tiller $10 TV up to 13” $15 Car Tires $5 TV 14” – 19” $20 Light Truck Tires $7.50 TV 20” – 27” $25 Semi $10 TV 28” and larger $45 Lawn/Garden Tires $2 Treadmill/ Exercise $20 Charge per rim $2 Fluorescents/ Bulbs Batteries 4’ and smaller $0.50 Lead-Acid (Cars) $5 Over 4 foot $0.80 Lead-Acid (trucks) $7.50 Light Fixtures $10 Lead-Acid (commercial) $10 Neon Bulbs $3.50/lb Cell phone Batteries $1 Lithium $1 Laptop Batteries $2 OOnnccee aaggaaiinn oonn tthhiiss ddaayy tthhee CCoorrccoorraann JJaayycceeeess wwiillll bbee ggiivviinngg aawwaayy ttrreeee ssaapplliinnggss FFRREEEE.. MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR CORCORAN COUNTRY DAZE The economy has been tough on everyone these last few years. Family fun and vacations may have been put on hold. One way to help you through this trying time is by taking your family to Corcoran Country Daze. This year Corcoran Country Daze promises to be a great one. Starting Friday, August 20th, Country Daze starts with a bang as the men’s evening softball tournament begins. Anyone interested in entering a team can contact Shawn Tharp at 763-443-9502. From August 20th to the 21st there will be music and fun for everyone! FREE on Friday night the MLC Band will play. Saturday is Family Day at the Corcoran Park and Ball Fields and again more FREE fun for everyone. While softball tournament play continues, there is a Country Store craft show and many more FREE games and activities for the kids. Stay for dinner and take in the music of High Noon. Don’t forget the fireworks display honoring our veterans on Saturday at dark! JAYCEES EASTER PLANT FUNDRAISER The Jaycees will be taking orders for Azaleas, African Violets and Ranunculus plants for Easter. The plants are in a 4 ½ “pot and sell for $11.00. For more information or to place an order, please call Amanda at 612-310-6940. For those last-minute thoughts there will be extra plants available for purchase on April 3rd at the Easter Bunny egg hunt. 11 CORCORAN BULLETIN BOARD CENSUS REMINDER With the U.S. Census process beginning, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) advises people to be cooperative, but cautious, so as not to become a victim of fraud or identity theft. The U.S. Census worker should have a badge, a handheld device, a Census Bureau canvas bag and a confidentiality notice. Ask to see their identification and badge before answering their questions. As a general rule, you should never invite anyone you don’t know into your home. Census workers are currently only knocking on doors to verify address information. Do not give out your Social Security number, credit card or any banking or financial information to anyone, even if they claim they need it for the U.S. Census. All they really need to know is how many people live at your address. Also know that the Census Bureau has decided not to work with ACORN this year on gathering information. No ACORN worker should approach you saying he/she is with the Census Bureau. The Census Bureau may contact you by telephone, mail or in person at your home. However, the Census Bureau will NOT contact you by email; never open any emails, attachments or links impersonating the Census Bureau. Also, keep in mind why it is important to answer the census since this will determine how numerous government funds and spending are allocated. The City of Corcoran would like residents to be aware of the membership it has with Community Mediation Services, Inc. The organization offers free mediation services to the community to settle various disagreements and conflicts, such as landlord/tenant issues, pets, shared parenting, feuding neighbors and more. This is a great opportunity to resolve matters out of court at no cost with experienced, trained professionals. Anyone can open a case by contacting the agency at the information listed below. Phone: (763) 561-0033 Email: staff@mediationprogram.com Website: www.mediationprogram.com CCHHAANNGGEE IINN AANNIIMMAALL TTAAGG OORRDDIINNAANNCCEE At a regular City Council meeting on February 25, 2010, the Corcoran City Council has amended its ordinance relating to dog licensing, Section 81.02 of the Corcoran City Code. The amendment will no longer require residents to obtain a city-issued dog license or register their dog with the city and pay the licensing fee. Dog owners in Corcoran will, however, still be responsible for providing their dog with an identification tag stating name, address and phone number of the dog’s owner in addition to a rabies vaccination tag showing date of vaccination. If you have any questions regarding the amendment, please call the police clerk at 763-420-8966. UPCOMING ELECTION INFORMATION Elections will be here before we know it! With that said, we would like to inform you that the City of Corcoran will have an open Mayor seat and two open seats for City Council. The Mayor seat is a two-year term and the Councilperson seat is a four-year term. The City Council meets every second and fourth Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. at City Hall. Voter’s registration cards are available at City Hall or you can contact Jeannie at 763-420- 2288 ext. 15 for more information. DRIVERS’ SAFETY PROGRAM The Minnesota Highway Safety Center will be offering a 55+ Driver Improvement Course again at City Hall on the following days: 4 Hour Refresher Course - April 13th from 5:30-9:30 8 Hour Beginner course – May 10th & 11th from 5:30 – 9:30 For more information or to schedule an appointment please call 1-888-234-1294. Persons age 55 and older who complete the course qualify for a ten percent discount on their auto insurance premiums for three years. THANK YOU Jaycee’s for your generous donation to the newsletter. CORCORAN SOCCER REGISTRATION Corcoran soccer is a co-ed, recreational league for children ages 5 – 14 years. Registration begins May 10th, 2010. Practices and games are held on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, starting at 6:30 p.m., from mid July to the end of August. Registration closes June 18th or when teams are formed, which ever comes first. For registration information visit www.corcoransoccer.org or contact Rachael Brolin at 763-478-3086. 12 DON’T FORGET TO SAVE THIS DATE Here are some of the exciting events to look forward to: Farm Animal Petting Zoo Pony Rides Kids Activities Creative Activities Great Fair Food Great Family Carnival Great Commercial Vendors 4-H Exhibits Fireworks (Sat.) Hennepin County Talent Contest Jack Pearson - Musician & Storyteller Demo Derby (Saturday Night) Nicks Kids Show 3rd Lair Skatepark At Corcoran Lions Park (Intersection of CO RD 101 and 10) Lions Park Calendar Tractor Pull Saturday June 5th 7:00 PM Hamel Rodeo July 7th to 11th Regional N.T.P.A. Tractor Pull Saturday August 28th 7:00 PM Demo Derby Saturday September 11th 7:00 PM For more information go to: www.corcoranlions.com HELP SUPPORT YOUR AREA BUSINESSES SSOOMMEE TTYYPPEESS OOFF HHOOMMEE OOCCCCUUPPAATTIIOONNSS RREEQQUUIIRREE CCIITTYY AAPPPPRROOVVAALL** Home occupations are businesses run out of the home, where the home is the primary use of the property. Home occupations are gaining popularity, but you should know that facts before you start your business. The City Code (Section 1030.100) defines three types of home occupations: Allowed, Special and Conditional. These uses are regulated in order to prevent them from becoming a nuisance to surrounding residents. Allowed Home Occupations. No permit is required if the business does not change the character of the home, there is no outside storage, no signage, and no noticeable increase in traffic or noise. Only persons who reside in the dwelling may be employed in the business. No customers or clients come to the home. Special Home Occupations. An Administrative Permit is required for these types of home occupations, which have more potential impacts than an allowed home occupation. These types of home occupations may have up to 10 trips to the home daily and may have a single vehicle up to 26,000 lb. GVW subject to certain conditions. Conditional Home Occupations. An Interim Use Permit is required for these types of home occupations, which are the most intensive type of home occupation. If residents wish to operate a home business that does not meet the requirements of an allowed or special home occupation, such as having more customer trips or more than one commercial vehicle, they may be eligible for a conditional home occupation license. For more information or a copy of the application form and other information, contact City Hall at 763.420.2288. *Daycare home facilities and group family daycare home facilities that are licensed by the State are exempt from the requirements of this Ordinance. Expires 05/01/2010 COUPON Corcoran Newsletter The Country Pizza Parlor 7565 CO RD 116 • Corcoran 763-420-5755 www.countrypizzaparlor.com RECEIVE $2.00 OFF Not valid with other offers A Large Country Deluxe Pizza WE DELIVER We offer take-n-bake pizzas for take out. Check Out Our Party Room! COUPON Authentic Thai Food HONG THAI RESTAURANT Dine In or Carry Out 21301 CO RD 81 (Main Street) Rogers, MN 763-425-8218 Bring in this ad and receive 1 order of Crème Cheese Wontons FREE with the purchase of one entree. Not valid with other offers www.hongthairestaurant.com Limit 1 coupon per family Expires 5/01/2010 CORCORAN NEWSLETTER This newsletter will be mailed to approx. 1,980 homes and business in Corcoran. Advertize your business in the Corcoran newsletter and your coupon or add will be inserted. Call 763-420-2288 ext. 10 for more information.