FALL 2020 City Newsletter92EFCBF5... · 2020. 7. 28. · informational emails to HOA’s, and...

FALL 2020 City Newsletter

www.linolakes.us | 651.982.2400

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

2020 ELECTIONS Page 3MANGANESE UPDATE Page 6NIGHT TO UNITE 0

A NEW STARTAt the beginning of this my 11th year as an elected member of the City Council – I started this term as Mayor. I am joined by returning councilmember Dale Stoesz and three newly elected councilmembers Mike Ruhland, Chris Lyden, and Tony Cavegn.

Much has happened since the beginning of the year. The Council has approved plans and awarded contracts for projects from one side of the city to the other. There are multiple road projects, like the Cedar Street and Elmcrest project, which are nearing completion. In addition, the City has started trail projects, including the new trail connection along 12th Avenue. A new park, in the Woods Edge development near the City Hall complex, is nearing completion that will be a wonderful addition to our park system. Water Tower No. 3 is rising near Fire Station #2 to serve our growing community. Residential development remains strong as new homes appear in the Watermark and Eastside Villas developments and construction starts on the recently approved Nadeau Acres development.

The City has recently welcomed new staff members in Public Safety, Community Development and Administration. In addition, we welcome Sarah Cotton to the role of City Administrator. Sarah may be new to this position, but yet has served in the role of Finance Director for the City since 2015.

In the midst of all this, the City declared a Local State of Emergency in response to the Coronavirus pandemic. As council, we are proud of the job our City staff has done. They have put in long hours preparing a Pandemic Response Plan. They did so in the effort to make things work like business as usual, in the most unusual of times.

At the start of 2020, I thought the council mission would be simple:• Quality of development over quantity; • Understand the facts; • Consider all viewpoints; and • Determine the best direction for all.

It is most definitely all of that, yet so much more, for we have a wonderful city that we have been elected to serve. I assure you Council will do that, without reservation, while representing you.Thank you,

Rob RaffertyMayor of Lino Lakes

ELECTIONS JUDGES NEEDED!Serving as an Election Judge is an excellent way to get involved within your community. You will learn election procedures and ensure that elections are administered in a fair manner.

ELECTION JUDGE STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

• Eligible to vote • Able to read, write and speak English • Attend a training class

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Able to communicate clearly with voters

• Physical & emotional stamina • Attention to detail • Simple math skills

ELECTION JUDGE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Open and close polls • Register and sign in voters • Distribute and collect ballots • Operate voting equipment

ELECTION JUDGE PAY

Lino Lakes Election Judges are paid an hourly wage to attend a training session and for service on Election Day.

Also State law allows for time off from work without loss of wages to serve as an Election Judge.

HOW CAN I SIGN UP?

The need for election judges will be greatest for this coming November. Please see the City website linolakes.us to register on line, or email [email protected].

2 | Lino Lakes Newsletter

2020 ELECTIONSSTATE PRIMARY - Tuesday, August 11TH GENERAL ELECTION - Tuesday, November 3RD

The 2020 election year is going to be a little different. The Minnesota Secretary of State’s Office is encouraging all eligible voters to Vote From Home, to reduce spread of disease and keep our communities healthy. Voting from home is easy and available to any Minnesota voter through our absentee balloting system.

ABSENTEE VOTING

Lino Lakes residents who would like to cast an absentee ballot for either the August 11th primary election or the November 3rd general election may request/submit an application for a mailed ballot by going on-line at mnvotes.org. Residents may vote an absentee ballot in person at City Hall, 600 Town Center Parkway, Monday through Friday during office hours (or the Saturday before Election Day from 10am-3pm or until 5pm on the Monday before each election day).

REGISTER TO VOTE

To register or update your registration, you may pick up a Voter Registration Application at city hall or download the application from the Secretary of State’s web site at mnvotes.org. To register at your polling place on Election Day you will need identification with your current name and address. If your identification isn’t current, you may present a photo id with additional documentation indicating your current name and address (a list of acceptable documents available at mnvotes.org). Minnesota Law also allows confirmation by a registered voter in your precinct, known as vouching.

If you have questions about voter registration, absentee voting, where to vote, contact City Clerk Julie Bartell at 651-982-2406 or [email protected].

VOTING AT YOUR POLLING PLACE

All seven of Lino Lakes polling places will open for voting on Election Day from 7 a.m. through 8 p.m. Safety precautions will be in place for in person voting, following the CDC Guidelines. Throughout Minnesota, cities are busy planning for the safest polling situation possible, including the following:

• Setting up each polling place to minimize contact between people (poll workers and public)

• Allowing a limited number of people in the polling place at a time and having a separate entrance and exit door when possible

• Monitoring lines that form to ensure distancing

• Including Plexiglas shields at the tables where our poll workers must meet the public

• Offering masks, hand sanitizer and gloves

• Routine sanitizing of any touched surfaces (doors, equipment)

• Single use pens

www.linolakes.us | 651.982.2400 | 3

n Public Services

NEW! WOODS EDGE PARK COMPLETEDWoods Edge Park is a neighborhood park adjacent to the YMCA on regional park property. This park creates a more “natural” type feel that aesthetically fits with the natural surroundings. There is a natural-themed playground & nature trail and this fall, natural play elements including a fort building area, log balance beams will be added. We look forward to seeing everyone enjoying this new park while following social distancing and CDC guidelines.

WOODS EDGE PARK

12TH AVENUE TRAILThe City received resident requests to construct a trail along 12th Avenue. The trail was discussed at City Council work sessions throughout 2019 and as a result the City Council budgeted for this project within their 2020 budget with funding through the park and trail improvement fund and through state aid.

The 12th Avenue Trail Project includes construction of a new trail between White Oak Road and the existing trail head approximately 720 feet south of White Oak Road, pedestrian ramp improvements, and ditch grading and culvert repairs to facilitate drainage in the project area (location map at right). Construction will be completed this fall. The City hopes that this trail will be widely used and enjoyed by residents in that area.

TRAIL REMINDERSA few friendly reminders while you are out enjoying the many trails Lino Lakes has to offer this fall:

• Unauthorized motorized vehicles and recreation equipment are not allowed on the trails. This includes, but is not limited to, snowmobiles, ATVs, etc.

• When walking your pet, clean-up after them to ensure everyone can continue to enjoy the trail.

• If your property is located near a trail, take a moment to check that your landscaping is pruned and not encroaching onto the trail. Trail maintenance equipment requires an 8 foot overhead clearance and 1 foot cleared area around the trail to properly clear and maintain the trail.

PARKS & TRAILS MAPS

Visit https://linolakes.us/parkinfo to view or download a map and review each park and their amenities.

• Please be aware of where cars are parked when parking on the street. Blocking a trail entrance/exit hinders the Parks Department from properly maintaining the trails.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding any of the Lino Lakes trails or parks contact the Public Services Department at 651-982-2440.


FALL MAINTENANCEHYDRANT FLUSHING

Each spring & fall, the city flushes hydrants to ensure that all hydrants are operating properly and to clear sediment build-up. This causes turbulence of water in the water mains and may cause dark colored water. Although the water is safe for human consumption, please check for discolored water before laundering clothes as it may stain certain fabrics. If clothes develop stains, do not dry, but rewash immediately to remove stains. If discoloration of water appears, run water for 2-3 minutes until it appears clear.

Please note the city requests that residents park their cars further away from hydrants during early spring so utility workers can easily access hydrants.

STREET SWEEPING

All city streets are swept in the spring and fall each year. The city has about 104 miles of streets (center lines miles), or 208 mile of curb line to sweep. Areas of the city served by city water are swept first to keep ahead of hydrant flushing, which can wash sand into wetlands. Residents can help by getting vehicles off city streets when sweeping crews are in their neighborhoods. The streets supervisor would also like to remind residents not to rake leaves into the city street as leaves and dirt can build up along the curb lines and plug storm drains. With good weather, and no breakdowns, it will take about seven to eight weeks to complete sweeping all city streets.

FALL RECREATION PROGRAM UPDATEDue to uncertainty caused by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the City has canceled all fall recreation programs, activities, and events. This includes fall Soccer, fall Flag Football, Gobbler Games, and Senior Trips. Registration refunds are currently being processed and may take up to four weeks to complete. Refund checks will be mailed out to the current address we show on the registration file.

The Senior Center remains closed until further notice.

Lino Lakes Parks and Trails will continue to be open for the enjoyment of all! Please continue to practice social distancing and follow CDC guidelines when using the parks and trails.

Park Shelter Rental permits will continue to be processed for groups up to 25.

The Centennial Soccer Club offers a fall soccer program. For additional information www.centennialsoccer.org.

Please continue to check the City’s website and our Recreation Facebook page for updates.


n Public Services

MANGANESE UPDATE The City of Lino Lakes continues to work with engineering consultants and MDH professionals on short-, mid-, and long- term plans to reduce the manganese levels in the City’s municipal drinking water. The City has already taken steps to reduce the manganese levels in the water supply by limiting the use of wells with high manganese levels. While this practice has lowered the manganese levels to below 300 ppb, a level that is safe for adult and child consumption, it is still recommended to consider bottled water for formula fed infants under the age of 12 months.

In addition to odd-even sprinkling restrictions, watering lawns is also prohibited every day between 6:00am - 6:00pm. The rationale behind this decision is driven by the highest volume demand for water occurring in the early morning hours. This results in the need to turn on additional (higher manganese level producing) wells. Reducing the daily peak water demand should minimize the frequency/duration of operating higher manganese producing wells.

City staff will continue awareness efforts to educate all municipal water supply consumers on the importance of limiting water use to help keep manganese levels down. This includes updates on the City website, sending out informational emails to HOA’s, and placing door tags when staff observes residences/businesses not complying with the current sprinkling restrictions.

A copy of the Water Treatment Plant Feasibility Study, as well as additional information and updates, are available at www.linolakes.us. Click on Public Water Advisory.

On March 9, 2020, the City Council authorized the preparation of a Water Treatment Plant feasibility study to evaluate future water treatment options. The purpose of this feasibility study was to evaluate alternative water supply options to address the high manganese levels in the City’s drinking water and provide acceptable water quality that meets current and proposed drinking water standards. The study included:

• Evaluation of Alternative Water Supply Options to address short to mid-term needs

• Analyze Source Water

• Evaluation of Water Treatment Options

• Review of Potential Plant Sites

• Preparation of Centralized Water Treatment Plan Preliminary Drawings

• Evaluation of future system needs and phasing

• Water Treatment Plant Impacts

• Determine Estimated Costs

The City Council reviewed the feasibility study during the July 6, 2020 City Council work session. A more detailed financial analysis is currently underway to identify possible funding sources and potential impacts to user rates. It’s expected that the City Council will continue discussions during an upcoming City Council work session.


WATERING RESTRICTIONS IN EFFECTIn addition to odd - even sprinkling restrictions, watering lawns is also prohibited every day between 6:00am - 6:00pm. This is in response to the Public Water Advisory related to manganese levels in the City’s water supply. For additional information, please visit www.linolakes.us and click on “Public Water Advisory”.

WATER QUALITY REPORTThe 2019 Water Quality Report is posted on the City of Lino Lakes website. To view the report online visit https://linolakes.us and scroll down to “Quick Links”. Paper copies are available upon request by calling 651-982-2401.

LOOKING AHEAD TO THE WINTERWINTER PARKING RESTRICTIONS

Winter parking restrictions take place between November 1st – April 1st of each year in Lino Lakes. Parking vehicles on any public street within the City is prohibited between the hours of 2:00am – 6:00am in the above time frame. In addition, parking in not allowed on any public street when 2 inches or more of snow has fallen until the street has been plowed. Vehicles in violation of the Winter Parking Restrictions may be towed at the owner’s expense and the vehicle owner could be charged a petty misdemeanor (See Lino Lakes City Code Chapter 802 Section 6).

HELP PROTECT YOUR LAWN AND SPRINKLER HEADS

It’s not too early to start planning for the winter plowing season. To help prevent plow damage to your turf and irrigation heads, it’s very helpful to mark the edge of the road prior to the first snowfall. Snowplow operators must often plow the roads when visibility is hampered by blowing snow, fog, or darkness. These conditions make it difficult for the operator to gauge where the edge of the street ends and the turf begins, especially when there are no existing snowbanks to visually assist the drivers. Simply mark the edge of the road with 24” high reflective or brightly colored stakes at about 20 foot intervals. Also, lathe is available FREE of charge for delivery by contacting Streets Supervisor Tim Payne at 651-982-2455.

LATHE AVAILABLE

Contact Justin Williams, Utilities Supervisor at 651-982-2452 if you have

questions about Lino Lakes drinking water. You can also ask for information

about how you can take part in decisions that may affect water quality.

Lead

You may come in contact with lead through paint, water, dust, soil, food, hobbies, or your job. This can cause serious health problems for everyone. There is no safe level of lead. Babies, children under six years, and pregnant women are at the highest risk.Lead is rarely present in drinking water at the source, but it can get in your drinking water as it passes through lead service lines and your household plumbing system. Lino Lakes provides high quality drinking water and there are no lead service lines in its public water distribution system, but it cannot control the plumbing materials used in private buildings.

To limit exposure to lead in drinking water, run your water for 30-60 seconds before using it for drinking or cooking when the water has not been used for over six hours. Use cold water for drinking, making food, and making baby formula as hot water releases more lead from plumbing than cold water.In most cases, these actions should keep lead levels low

in your drinking water. If you are still concerned about lead, you may arrange with a laboratory to test your tap water. A lab test is the only way to know if the lead concentration is reduced. Testing your water is important if young children or pregnant women drink your tap water.Contact an MDH accredited laboratory to get a sample

container and instructions on how to submit a sample to the Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program:www.health.state.mn.us/accreditationThe Minnesota Department of Health can help you

understand your test results. If your test results show that your water has high levels of lead after you let the water run, treat your water.Read about water treatment units: www.health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/water/factsheet/hometreatment.html

To learn more about lead in drinking water:www.health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/water/contaminants/lead.htmlwww.epa.gov/safewater/leadCall the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791.

To learn about how to reduce your contact with lead from sources other than your drinking water:www.health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/lead/sources.html

FluorideFluoride is nature’s cavity fighter, with small amounts present naturally in many drinking water sources. There is an overwhelming weight of credible, peer-reviewed, scientific evidence that fluoridation reduces tooth decay and cavities in children and adults, even when there is availability of fluoride from other sources, such as fluoride toothpaste and mouth rinses. Since studies show that optimal fluoride levels in drinking water benefit public health, municipal community water systems adjust the level of fluoride in the water to a concentration between 0.5 to 1.5 parts per million (ppm), with an optimal fluoridation goal between 0.7 and 1.2 ppm to protect your teeth. Fluoride levels below 2.0 ppm are not expected to increase the risk of a cosmetic condition known as enamel fluorosis.

Lawn WateringOn summer days, Lino Lakes water consumption increases to more than 4 times that of other seasons. When we work together to decrease our peak consumption periods, we minimize our reliance on wells that produce water of lesser quality. Thoughtful watering habits protect both the quality and cost of our drinking water.

Best Watering Practices• Only irrigate on weeks with less than 1 inch of rainfall

• Irrigate only mornings before 6am • Soak 6-8 inches of soil (takes ~1 inch of water)• Aim nozzles so all water falls on lawn, not streets, sidewalks or driveways

Lino Lakes Watering Restrictions• Lawn watering is prohibited between 6:00 am - 6:00 pm year round• Odd/even ban in place from May 15-September 15• Exemptions to the odd/even ban for new sod or

seed permitted by calling 651-982-2440• Restrictions do not apply to hand watering or for properties using a private well for sprinkling

*Highest quarterly average **Lowest-highest monthly average

Substance(units) test dateMCL MCLG Level

DetectedRange Major Source of Contaminant Meets Standard

Barium(ppm) 2017 2 2 0.13 N/A Discharge of drilling wastes; Discharge

from metal refineries; Erosion of natural deposits. P

Fluoride(ppm) 4 4 0.87* 0.69-0.89** Erosion of natural deposits; Water additive

to promote strong teeth. P

Total Chlorine(ppm) 4 4 0.49 0.21-0.67 Water additive to control microbes.

P

Total Haloacetic Acids HAA(ppb)

60(MRDL)

N/A 3.1 1.1-3.1 By-product of drinking water disinfection.P

Total Trihalomethanes(ppb)

80(MRDL)

N/A 4.7 4.3-4.7 By-product of drinking water disinfection.P

Substance(units) test dateAL MCLG 90%

LevelSites

Over ALMajor Source of Contaminant Meets Standard

Copper(ppm) 9/7/17 1.3 0 0.34 1 of 30

sitesCorrosion of household plumbing.

P

Lead(ppb) 9/7/17 15 0 1 1 of 30

sitesCorrosion of household plumbing.

P

Aesthetic Water PropertiesCalcium- 57.3 ppmIron- 2.7 ppmTotal Hardness- 13.7 grains

Understanding the TableLevel Detected: This is the value used to determine compliance

with federal standards. It sometimes is the highest value detected

and sometimes is an average of all the detected values. If it is an

average, it may contain sampling results from the previous year.MCL: Maximum Contaminant Level. The highest level of a contaminant that is allowed in drinking water. MCLs are set as close to the MCLGs as feasible using the best available treatment

technology.MCLG: Maximum Contaminant Level Goal. The level of a contaminant in drinking water below which there is no known

or expected risk to health. MCLGs allow for a margin of safety.MRDL: Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level. The highest

level of a disinfectant allowed in drinking water. There is convincing evidence that addition of a disinfectant is necessary for control of microbial contaminants. MRDLG: Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level Goal. The

level of a drinking water disinfectant below which there

is no known or expected risk to health. MRDLGs do not

reflect the benefits of the use of disinfectants to control

microbial contaminants. AL: Action Level. The concentration of a contaminant which, if

exceeded, triggers treatment or other requirements which a water system must follow.90% Level: This is the value obtained after disregarding 10

percent of the samples taken that had the highest levels. For example, in a situation in which 10 samples were taken, the 90th

percentile level is determined by disregarding the highest result,

which represents 10 percent of the samples.

ppm: Parts per million or milligrams per liter (mg/l). One ppm is like one drop in one million drops of water, or about one cup in a swimming pool.ppb: Parts per billion or micrograms per liter

(μg/l). One ppb in water is like one drop in one billion drops of water, or about one drop in a swimming pool.N/A: Not Applicable (does not apply).HAA6Br: A group of 6 haloacetic acids.HAA9: A group of 9 haloacetic acids.

Unregulated Substance(units) Level

Detectedrange

Comparison Value

Manganese(ppb) 36782.7-367

100HAA6Br(ppb) 0.9

0.42-1.39N/A

HAA9(ppb) 2.9

1.9-3.89 N/A

Read more about Manganese in Lino Lakes water at:https://tinyurl.com/LinoLakesPublicAdvisory

The table on the next page lists the contaminants we found last year or the most recent time we sampled for that contaminant. It also displays the levels of those contaminants and the EPA’s limits. Substances that we tested for but did not find are not included in the tables.We sample for some contaminants less than once a year

because their levels in water are not expected to change from year to year. If we found any of these contaminants the last time we sampled for them, we included them in the tables below with the detection date.We may have done additional monitoring for contaminants

that are not included in the Safe Drinking Water Act. To request a copy of these results, call MDH at 651-201-4700 or 1-800-818-9318 between 8:00 am and 4:30 pm (M-F).In addition to testing drinking water for contaminants regulated under the Safe Drinking Water Act, we sometimes also monitor for contaminants that are not regulated. Unregulated contaminants do not have legal limits for drinking water.Detection alone of a regulated or unregulated contaminant should not cause concern. The meaning of a detection should be determined considering current health effects information. We are often still learning about the health effects, so this information can change over time.The table on the next page shows the unregulated

contaminants we detected last year, as well as human-health based guidance values for comparison, where available. The comparison values are based only on potential health impacts and do not consider our ability to measure contaminants at very low concentrations or the cost and technology of prevention and/or treatment. They may be set at levels that are costly, challenging, or impossible for water systems to meet (for example, large-scale treatment technology may not exist for a given contaminant).A person drinking water with a contaminant at or below the

comparison value would be at little or no risk for harmful health effects. If the level of a contaminant is above the comparison value, people of a certain age or with special health conditions - like a fetus, infants, children, elderly, and people with impaired immunity – may need to take extra precautions. Because these contaminants are unregulated, EPA and MDH require no particular action based on detection of an unregulated contaminant. We are notifying you of the unregulated contaminants we have detected as a public education opportunity. More information is available on MDH’s A-Z List of

Contaminants in Water: https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/water/contaminants/index.htmland Fourth Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule

(UCMR 4):www.health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/water/com/ucmr4

Some people may be more vulnerable to contaminants in drinking water than the general population.

Immuno-compromised persons such as persons with cancer undergoing chemotherapy, persons who have

undergone organ transplants, people with HIV/AIDS or other immune system disorders, some elderly, and infants

can be particularly at risk from infections. These people should seek advice about drinking water from their health

care providers. EPA/CDC guidelines on appropriate means to lessen the risk of infection by Cryptosporidium

and other microbial contaminants are available from the EPA’s Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791.

Regulating Drinking WaterThe U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets safe drinking water standards. These standards limit the amounts of specific contaminants allowed in drinking water. This ensures that tap water is safe to drink for most people. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration regulates the amount of certain contaminants in bottled water. Bottled water must provide the same public health protection as public tap water.Drinking water, including bottled water, may reasonably be expected to contain at least small amounts of some contaminants. The presence of contaminants does not necessarily indicate that water poses a health risk. Get more information about contaminants and potential health effects by calling the EPA’s Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791. Results of MonitoringWe work with the Minnesota Department of Health to test

drinking water for more than 100 contaminants. It is not unusual to detect contaminants in trace amounts as no water supply is ever completely free of contaminants. Drinking water standards protect Minnesotans from substances that may be harmful to their health.Learn more by visiting the MDH webpage Basics of Monitoring and Testing of Drinking Water in Minnesota www.health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/water/factsheet/sampling

Water Quality ReportLINO LAKES

2019

Source Water information

from MDH

Minnesota’s primary drinking water sources are

groundwater and surface water. Groundwater is

the water found in aquifers beneath the surface

of the land. Groundwater supplies 75 percent

of Minnesota’s drinking water. Surface water is

the water in lakes, rivers, and streams above

the surface of the land. Surface water supplies

25 percent of Minnesota’s drinking water.

Contaminants can get in drinking water sources

from the natural environment and from people’s

daily activities. There are five main types of

contaminants in drinking water sources.

Microbial contaminants, such as viruses,

bacteria, and parasites. Sources include sewage

treatment plants, septic systems, agricultural

livestock operations, pets, and wildlife.

Inorganic contaminants include salts and metals

from natural sources (e.g. rock and soil), oil and

gas production, mining and farming operations,

urban stormwater runoff, and wastewater discharges.

Pesticides and herbicides are chemicals used to

reduce or kill unwanted plants and pests. Sources

include agriculture, urban stormwater runoff, and

commercial and residential properties.

Organic chemical contaminants include

synthetic and volatile organic compounds.

Sources include industrial processes and

petroleum production, gas stations, urban

stormwater runoff, and septic systems.

Radioactive contaminants such as

radium, thorium, and uranium isotopes

come from natural sources (e.g. radon

gas from soils and rock), mining

operations, and oil and gas production.

LinoLakes.us

Lino Lakes works hard to provide you with safe

and reliable drinking water that meets federal

and state water quality requirements. This report

is meant to inform you about your drinking water

and ways to protect our precious water resources.

Inside, you’ll find results of the water quality monitoring

performed from January 1 to December 31, 2019.

Lino Lakes Water Source

Lino Lakes drinking water comes from a

groundwater source: six wells which range from 258

to 338 feet deep, that draw water from the Prairie Du

Chien-Jordan and Jordan-St. Lawrence aquifers.

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH)

provides information about your drinking water

sources in a source water assessment which

addresses ways Lino Lakes is protecting your

drinking water sources, nearby threats to your

drinking water sources, how easily water and

pollution can move from the surface of the land into

drinking water sources based on natural geology

and well construction.

Call 651-201-4700 or 800-818-9318 between

8:00am and 4:30pm (M-F) to request a copy of

your source water assessment or find it online at:

www.health.state.mn.us/communities/

environment/water/swp/swa


PAID-ON-CALL FIREFIGHTERS NEEDEDThe City of Lino Lakes is accepting applications for Paid-On-Call Firefighters. No experience is necessary. Applicants must be willing to obtain the following certifications upon hire: Firefighter I, Firefighter II and HazMat Awareness. Applicants are eligible for the fire training compensation program upon completion of each phase of training. In addition, applicants must successfully pass a background investigation, physical and psychological examinations.

Application packets are available on our website. Completed applications can be mailed to: Lino Lakes City Hall / Human Resources Department 600 Town Center Parkway Lino Lakes, MN 55014 or emailed to [email protected]

CARBON MONOXIDE is an odorless, tasteless, and invisible gas.

SIGNS OF CO POISONING include headache, nausea, fatigue, and disorientation.

COOKING AND HEATING UNITS that burn fuel and are not properly ventilated or

that malfunction can be a source of CO in the home.

DID YOU KNOW?

CO ALARMS: What You Need To Know

• Install carbon monoxide alarms within 10 feet of each sleeping room or inside each sleeping room.

• Test CO alarms monthly. Replace alarms every five to seven years.

• Evacuate immediately and call 911 from outside your home, if a CO alarm sounds.

• Clear snow and debris from furnace, dryer, fireplace or oven vents around your home to prevent a CO buildup.

n Public Safety Partnership


Police Explorers is a program designed to educate youth about a career in law enforcement. It provides an opportunity to learn about law enforcement procedures through a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on training. Areas of training include:

Search & Arrest

Crime Prevention

Burglary in Progress

Traffic Accidents

Crime Scene Investigation

White Collar Crime

Domestic Crisis Intervention

Hostage Negotiation

Traffic Stops

Bomb Scene Investigation

First Aid

Firearms Training

Shoot/Don’t Shoot Situations

Defensive Tactics

Volunteering in the community is also an important aspect of Explorers. We assist in various community activities, such as Night to Unite, the Blue Heron Days parade, officer training, and Safety Camp, along with other events throughout the year.

POLICE EXPLORER REQUIREMENTS

• Must be ages 14-20

• Must pass a formal back ground check

• Must be a resident of Lino Lakes or surrounding areas

• Must have a GPA of 2.0 or higher

• Must have good morale, dedication, and the willingness to serve their community

• Must complete an application and interview

• Attend weekly meetings

To learn more about our post and decide if Police Explorers is right for you contact Melissa Christensen at 651-982-2308 or [email protected]

IS YOUR FUTURE IN LAW ENFORCEMENT?

Are you a 14-20 year old who is interested in a career in Law Enforcement?

Do you want to give back and volunteer in the community?

Join the Lino Lakes Police Explorers and gain insight into the world of policing and community partnerships.


Night to Unite occurs every year on the first Tuesday of August. Night to Unite is a great way for first responders and the community to come together and build relation-ships. This year because of COVID 19, Night to Unite is being changed to October 6th, 2020. The Lino Lakes Public Safety Department looks forward to being a part of your Night to Unite party again this year. Officer Adam Halverson will be heading up the planning for Night to Unite, so if you have any questions please reach out to him at [email protected] or 651-982-2357. Officer Adam Halverson will be reaching out to the neighborhoods that hosted parties last year in August, so we can start planning the events.

1 Building relationships with your neighbors, which allows you to get to know one another.

2Encouraging and fostering neighborhood involvement by bringing police and communities together.

3Bringing awareness to crime prevention and local law enforcement efforts by giving you the opportunity to meet and speak with officers from your police department.

Night to Unite celebrates and strengthens neighborhood and community partnerships by:

Tuesday Evening – October 6th, 2020

NOTICE A New Date is Set for NIGHT TO UNITE

Officer Adam Halverson #117 / Lino Lakes Police Dept. 640 Town Center Parkway, Lino Lakes, MN 55014 Office: 651-982-2357 Email: [email protected]


PERMITS ARE REQUIRED BY THE CITYAs many residents are staying home during the COVID-19 pandemic, thoughts turn to those long put-off home improvement projects. The City would like to remind residents that permits are required for many of those projects. The following permits are required prior to work commencing:

BUILDING PERMIT

Per MN State Building Code requirements: No structure can be erected, constructed, enlarged, altered, repaired, moved, improved, removed, converted or demolished unless a building permit has been obtained from the city. This includes fences over six feet in height.

ZONING PERMIT

Accessory buildings 200 sq. feet or under in size, driveway replacement, fences six feet or under in height, earth grading, or lawn sprinkler/irrigation systems.

PLUMBING PERMIT

A plumbing permit is required for all work effecting drain, waste and vent piping and water supply lines. This includes septic installation or repair.

MECHANICAL PERMIT

A mechanical permit is required for installation or replacement of a furnace, air conditioner, water heater, gas line and gas fireplace.

SIGN PERMIT

Sign permits are required for commercial and business properties in the city. Please contact the City Planner at 651-982-2426 regarding signage in residential areas.

ELECTRICAL PERMIT

Electrical permits are required for all electrical work. Electrical permits are issued by the State of Minnesota. Please contact www.dli.mn.gov/business/get-licenses-and-permits/permits or call Lino Lakes Building Department for information.

Permit applications are available on the City website at www.linolakes.us or at City Hall. The Building Department is open from 8:00a.m. to 4:30p.m., Monday through Friday.

For more information on building permits, contact the Building Department at 651-982-2420.

Gopher State One Call: Protect yourselves and your property against underground utility damage. Anyone working in Minnesota must call before excavating. This is a free service provided by gopherstateonecall.org.

DRIVEWAYSThinking of replacing your driveway? Please remember a permit is required for driveway replacement. Be sure to verify with your contractor if they are obtaining the permit. Driveway regulations include setbacks from property lines, maximum width at the front property line, and surfacing materials.

If you have questions, please contact the City Building Department or check out our driveways info sheet at https://linolakes.us/vertical/sites/%7B92EFCBF5-B800-4B28-AD6A-B8C3B7009FB0%7D/uploads/Info_Sheet_-_Driveway(1).pdf

www.linolakes.us | 651.982.2400 | 11

FREE BUSINESS ADVICE The Open to Business program helps residence and business owners with business advice ranging from marketing and financial management to leasing and purchasing property. Are you in need of business advice to start or grow your business here in Lino Lakes? If so, Business Advisor, Kathleen DuChene, would be happy to meet with you!

If you are a Lino Lakes business owner or looking to open a business in the city, you’re invited to participate in this FREE opportunity. Interested entrepreneurs can schedule an appointment with Kathleen DuChene by calling 763-438-7315 or emailing [email protected].

Examples of how Open to Business has helped other clients:

• A prospective business owner received help in applying for financing and publicity once the store was open propelling the business to success.

• An existing business owner received advice about real estate issues and expansion plans.

• A resident received help in evaluating his target market and received suggestions on how he could expand his product into new markets.

More information about this program can also be found online at www.opentobusinessmn.org.

COVID-19 BUSINESS RESOURCESThe COVID-19 pandemic has impacted local businesses throughout the Anoka County region. Anoka County Regional Economic Development, in partnership with the City of Lino Lakes Economic Development, has provided a quick link to development resources and programs available to local businesses. If your business needs assistance or help navigating all the available programs, please visit https://www.anokacountysuccess.org/covid-19-anoka-county-business-resources/.

If you have further questions, please email Michael Grochala, Community Development Director, at [email protected].

ARE YOU A RENTAL PROPERTY OWNER?As part of the City’s Housing Maintenance Code, owners of multi-dwelling rental properties within the city are required to obtain a Rental Dwelling License. Why? This program supports the City’s goal of preserving stable neighborhoods and property values. A licensing program enables a community to ensure that these units and properties are maintained in a manner that provides decent housing for residents and upholds the property maintenance standards of the community.

Owners can obtain a license application via the City’s website or by contacting Building Department at 651-982-2420. The purpose of the license is to ensure that rental properties are maintained in a safe, secure, and sanitary manner.

n Community Development


STORMWATER PONDS: REDUCING FLOODING, KEEPING OUR WATERS CLEAN, BUT NOT FOR SWIMMING!Stormwater ponds remove pollutants from our waters and help prevent flooding downstream. They can provide wildlife habitat, but this is not their main purpose.

Stormwater ponds are man-made or modified basins designed to capture and hold stormwater runoff to reduce flooding and improve water quality. They are a requirement for most building projects like streets, houses, or projects when the amount of open land where water can soak into the ground is reduced.

When rainwater can’t soak into the ground, it flows over the land “looking” for someplace to go. It picks up pollutants from sidewalks, roadways, and yards as it flows. Stormwater runoff is one of the greatest threats to our water! Stormwater runoff flows into the stormwater pond and is stored. The stored water is released slowly while pollutants settle to the bottom of the pond instead of running off into our lakes, streams, and other waters.

Residents sometimes think that their neighborhood stormwater pond is a lake or pond for recreating. They mow to the edge or treat the area like their private property. These activities hurt the stormwater pond’s ability to clean and hold stormwater. Swimming in these ponds is also gross! Stormwater ponds have a dirty job to do.

Dirt, fertilizer, pet waste, salt, car oil, pesticides, and trash are some of the pollutants that stormwater ponds keep out of our rivers and lakes. Buffers of native plants around stormwater ponds can also help remove these pollutants. It is normal to see some algae growth in stormwater ponds; this means the pond is doing its job!

It is important to remember rules about stormwater ponds. Do not mow around a stormwater pond or dump trash, leaves, grass clippings, or fish into them. Do not build docks or swim in stormwater ponds and never drink water from a stormwater pond. These ponds and the areas around them are doing their job to prevent water pollution and reduce flooding!

LINO LAKES L-I-N-G-O!What language are they speaking at City Hall? Learn the meaning behind common terms you’re hearing at City Hall or during City Council and advisory board meetings. Stay tuned – each newsletter will feature new vocabulary words.

• Animals, Domestic. Any animal commonly accepted as a domesticated household pet. Unless otherwise defined, such animals shall include dogs, cats, caged birds including pigeons, gerbils, hamsters, guinea pigs, domesticated rabbits, fish, non-poisonous, non-venomous and non-constricting reptiles or amphibians, and other similar animals.

• Animals, Farm. Any animal commonly associated with a farm or performing work in an agricultural setting. Unless otherwise defined, such animals shall include members of the equestrian family (horses, mules), bovine family (cows, bulls), sheep, poultry (chickens, turkeys), fowl (ducks, geese), swine (excluding Vietnamese pot-bellied pigs), goats, bees, and other animals associated with a farm, ranch, or stable.

• Buffer. The use of land, topography, difference in elevation, space, fences or landscape plantings to screen or partially screen a use or property from another use or property or to shield or mitigate noise, lights or other impacts.

• Buildable Land, Contiguous. Land area occurring within the property lines of a parcel or lot excluding wetlands and/or water bodies.

www.linolakes.us | 651.982.2400 | 13

7 EASY WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR LINO LAKES ENVIRONMENT1. Find better alternatives to single-

use plastic items. Refillable water bottles and reusable grocery bags are alternatives that keep tons of plastic out of landfills.

2. Do not “Wish Recycle”. If you are not sure if an item can be recycled, it is better to throw it in the garbage. “When in Doubt, Throw it Out”.

3. Only recycle plastic with numbers 1, 2, and 5. Before recycling plastic containers, view the number on the bottom of the container.

4. Try local, organic produce. You’ll support local farmers who use eco-friendly agricultural practices, and you’ll cut down on fuel use and emissions from trucks that haul produce long distances.

5. Protect our water by picking up after your pet, limiting fertilizer and deicing salt use, and keeping grass clippings off of the street to prevent them from entering the storm drains.

6. Conserve water. Most lawns only need an inch of water per week. If it rains an inch that week, no need to water.

7. Plant native! Native trees and landscape plants benefit pollinators and improve the quality of our water and air.

Lino Lakes Environmental Board Meets at City Hall the last Wednesday of each Month

n Community Development

RESIDENTIAL RECYCLING OPTIONSThe City of Lino Lakes provides a number of recycling opportunities to residents. In 2019, residents helped divert approximately 2,400 tons of recyclables and organic material from landfills.

RESIDENTIAL ORGANICS RECYCLING

• Organic Site Drop-off Program: Offered to all Lino Lakes residents - sign-up required for access.

1) Free sign-up at linolakes.us on the Solid Waste/Recycling page found under Environmental Services.

2) Visit City Hall to collect your FREE kitchen compost pail and compost bags.

3) Fill your compost pail and bring your green compost bags to one of the drop-off locations:

Birch Park - 6520 Pheasant Run South Clearwater Creek lift station - 2200 Cedar Street Lino Park - 7850 Lake Drive Marshan Park - 7204 Lake Drive Anoka County Rice Creek Compost Site – 7701 Main Street

• Walters Blue Bag Organics Program: Offered to Walters Customers

1) Contact Walters at [email protected] or 763-780-8464 to sign up.

2) Fill your blue bags and place inside your regular trash can. Blue Bag Organics are separated from other trash at the processing facility.

For more information, contact [email protected] or call 651-982-2423.


EMAIL: [email protected] CALL: 651.982.2423 www.linolakes.us/recycling

ACCEPTED ITEMS*

ALUMINUM CANS (Donated to City Park’s Fund)APPLIANCES

Containing Freon ($15) Not Containing Freon ($10)

BATTERIES

Automotive (FREE) Household ($1 small box) Rechargeable ($1 small box)

BICYCLES (FREE)COMPUTER MONITORS ($15)COUCHES ($40)

Sectional ($30 PER PIECE)

FLUORESCENT BULBS ($1)

GRILLS: CHARCOAL(FREE) / PROPANE ($5)

HIDE-A-BED ($50)

HARD DRIVE DESTRUCTION ($5)

MATTRESS / SMALL FURNITURE ($25)

MISCELLANEOUS ELECTRONICS

Unlimited Small Items ($5) One Large Item ($10) Unlimited Large Items ($20) Holiday Lights (FREE)

PAPER / CONFIDENTIAL SHREDDING (FREE)Onsite Service | Limit to 3 Banker Boxes Per Month / Per Vehicle

SCRAP METAL (FREE)SMALL ENGINE EQUIPMENT (FREE)TIRES ($1 for Tires on the Rim)TELEVISIONS

19" and Under ($20) 20" – 29" ($30) 30" and Up ($50) Console & Projector (Wood $60/Plastic $50)

WHEELCHAIRS (FREE) - DonatedWINDOWS / METAL FRAMES (FREE)

*Prices are subject to change — Place small items in containers/boxes

LINO LAKES

RECYCLING SATURDAYS

Lino Park • 7850 Lake Drive • 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

SMALL BUSINESSES WELCOME!

2020 SCHEDULE - EVERY 3RD SATURDAY OF THE MONTH

August 15th

September 19th

October 17th November 21th

December 19th

www.linolakes.us | 651.982.2400 | 15

CITY OF LINO LAKES Lino Lakes City Hall 600 Town Center Parkway Lino Lakes, MN 55014

Office Hours: Monday through Friday 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Main Phone: 651-982-2400Main Fax: 651-982-2499 www.linolakes.us

MAYORRob Rafferty 651-982-2492 [email protected]

COUNCILMEMBERSTony Cavegn 651-982-2491 [email protected]

Chris Lyden 651-982-2490 [email protected]

Mike Ruhland 651-982-2493 [email protected]

Dale Stoesz 612-581-2047 [email protected]

CITY ADMINISTRATORSarah Cotton 651-982-2410 [email protected]

CITY DIRECTORYDEPARTMENT CONTACTS

Emergency Police/Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 911

Non-Emergency Police/Fire. . . . . . . . . . . 651-982-2323

Police/Fire Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 651-982-2399

Police/Fire Tip Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 651-982-2303

Assessments. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 651-982-2415

Elections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 651-982-2406

Finance Department . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 651-982-2410

Human Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 651-982-2413

Parks & Recreation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 651-982-2440

Engineering . . . . . . . .651-982-2430 or 651-982-2428

Sewer Back-ups . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 651-982-2452

After Hours Sewer Back-ups . . . . . . . . . . 763-427-1212

Street Maintenance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 651-982-2455

Public Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 651-982-2440

Boulevard Tree Trimming . . . . . . . . . . . . . 651-982-2465

Build/Plmb/Mech Permits & Insp. . . . . . 651-982-2420

Electrical Insp/Ted Hagfors . . . . . . . . . . . 320-396-2648

Code Enforce/Prop Complaints . . . . . . . 651-982-2463

Recycling Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 651-982-2423

Zoning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 651-982-2426

Lino Lakes News is published three times a year. Cover photo taken by: Ken Holvig of Lino Lakes.Please submit your photo for the Community Pride Photo Contest.

600 Town Center ParkwayLino Lakes, MN 55014

PRSRT STDU.S. Postage

PAIDPermit No. 32324Twin Cities, MN

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