Loading...
2021 Spring Issue1ii.in;i9m ra U. EEIUL� Assistant Fire Chief Tate Mills Retires After 23 Years Serving on Albertville Fire Department The Albertville City Council recently recognized Tate Mills for his the community and specifically the way that the paid -on -call 23 years of service. Tate spent eight of those years serving as the staff worked. Fire Chief and the last five as Assistant Fire Chief. Tate says he always knew he wanted to be a firefighter. "I wanted to be a firefighter since I was probably five years old. I'd always been drawn to the big scenes and big fire trucks and as cliche as it is, I like helping people," the Albertville husband and father of three recently shared. Fitting that he's involved in the fire service full-time, as he's worked for the Minnesota State Fire Marshal Division as Fire Service Specialist for the past four years. Tate is originally from Southern Minnesota but his wife, originally of St. Michael, brought him to the Albertville area over two decades ago. He's witnessed a lot of change around It's a bittersweet ending for Tate, who truly loved serving the community. "Twenty-three years of that pager going off and knowing that someone's not having a good day, it wasn't always terrible but there was a lot of terrible in there. Having good family support helped a lot," Tate said. Tate is leaving his firefighting days behind knowing he'll miss his fellow firefighters. "I won't miss the calls but I will miss the people I would go on the calls with." The City of Albertville thanks Tate for his service to our community these past 23 years! ►���IV W'• IVmr IVIVIV mrmr mrMVV, MFmr MFIVIV 0 "( * ht SAVING TIME SPRING FORWARD 'INDA" MARCH"' 2021 AT 2 A.N. Be sure to set your clocks ahead one hour before bed on Saturday night! '� 11 12 10 9 8 Albertville Smut T— IMn9. 919 -. Uf•. CITY HALL 5959 Main Avenue NE, PO Box 9, Albertville, MN 55301 763.497.3384 1 Fax:763.497.3210 1 www.ci.albertville.mn.us CITY HALL " F Monday - Thursday 1 7 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Closed daily from 12 - 12:30 p.m. CITY COUNCIL Mayor Jillian Hendrickson, Aaron Cocking, Bob Zagorski, Walter Hudson, Rob Olson PLANNING COMMISSION Rick Anderson, Paul Buhrmann, John Hayden, Blair Huggins PARKS COMMITTEE Leroy Berning, Larry Boller, Tim Guimont, Sarah Hansen, Andy Swanson ARENA BOARD MEMBERS Kari Dwinnell, Tim Lewis, Larry Sorensen, Keith Wettschreck PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT 763.497.3145 1 After Hours: 763.496.6809 11822 63rd Street NE. Albertville, MN 55301 SEWER/WATER DEPARTMENT 763.497.3384 x 132 1 11728 63rd Street NE, Albertville, MN 55301 LAW ENFORCEMENT Emergency:911 1 Non-Emergency:763.682.1162 FIRE DEPARTMENT Emergency: 911 1 Non -Emergency: 763.497.3384 x107 11350 57th Street NE, Albertville, MN 55301 ST. MICHAEL-ALBERTVILLE ARENA 763.497.6749 I www.stmayaorg 5898 Lachman Avenue NE, Albertville, MN 55301 FREQUENTLY CALLED NUMBERS FYCC:763.496.6820 1 www.myfvcc.com Crow River Senior Center: 763.497.8900 1 www.crowriverseniorcenter.com Great River Regional Library: 763.497.1998 1 www.griver.org Recycling provided by Republic Services: 952.941.5174 ISD #685 STMA Schools: 763.497.3180 1 www.stma.kl2.mn.us ISD #728 Elk River Schools: 763.241.3400 1 www.isd728.org Post Office: 1.800.275.8777 1 www.usps.com Wright County Government Center: 763.682.3900 1 co.wright.mn.us FOR ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES V For advertising opportunities, call 763.551.3705 PRIME' or email community(aprimeadvertising.com ADVERTISING + DESIGN primeadvertising.com. O Copyright 2021. City of Albertville and Prime Advertising & Design, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication maybe reproduced, stored, or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission of the publisher. Printed in the United States of America. This publication is a community service and the City of Albertville and Prime Advertising & Design, Inc. do not make any warranty cf any kind with regard to the services or products of the advertisers herein. The City of Albertville and Prime Advertising & Design, Inc. do not assume any responsibility or liability for any of the content within this publication and for any errors or omissions to such content and reserve the right to not publish any material. The costs of the publication are offset by the advertisers. Prime Advertising & Design, Inc. Is in control of the advertising content of this publication. City Meeting Calendar • CITY COUNCIL MEETING Held the first and third Monday of the month, 7 p.m. • PARKS COMMITTEE MEETING Held the fourth Monday of the month, 7 p.m. • PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING Held the second Tuesday of the month, 7 p.m. • ARENA BOARD MEETING / Held the second Monday of the month; 6 p.m. Notary Available A notary available at City Hall Mon - Thurs, 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. *Reminder, please do not sign document before coming into City Hall + bring a photo id* ItCE of Albertville 6050 LaBeaux Avenue NE, Albertville 763-497-4211 1 acehardware.com Mon -Fri 8am-8pm Sat 8am-6pm, Sun 9am-6pm WE CARRYALL THE BEST BRANDS in bar-b-que grills and outdoor power equipment BLACKSTONE Big Green Egg III �_i TRAEGER s �jt Husgvarna. =r.. CRRFTSMRN"��•r,•c W1Y)R12. Mike Potter Awarded Wright County Economic Development Partnership's Outstanding Citizen of the Year for 2020 Albertville Mayor Jillian Hendrickson .a — recently wrote a letter nominating former kt Commissioner Mike U I Potter for the Wright County Economic Development WRIGHT Partnership's [WCEDP] - cOMMISSIONER MICHAEL POTTER Outstanding Citizen -nl at the table f of the Year. HlMelgnleGiar t *t•••-�• Former Commissioner DISTRICT4 .........w , Potter was pleasantly 2013-2020 YEARS ~� ..�e surprised when he got the call that he was COUNTY being selected. "To say I wasn't expecting it was an understatement," Potter said. "I was told a county commissioner had never won this award so I was surprised and incredibly honored to be chosen." WCEDP Executive Director Jolene Foss said that Potter earned the distinction of winning the award because of his numerous efforts on behalf of the residents of Wright County in the areas of transportation and economic development, which often go hand in hand. Former Commissioner Potter has tirelessly served Wright County for eight years, not only representing District 4, but working on behalf of all of Wright County, Hendrickson wrote. During Potter's tenure, he served on many committees and policy boards including Region 7W Transportation, Highway 55 Coalition, Great River Regional Library, Wright County Extension Service, and the 1-94 West Coalition. "Over the past eight years, former Commissioner Potter has dedicated his time and energy and gone above and beyond. Wright County has seen many improvements thanks to the hard work of his and the County Board," Hendrickson wrote. In addition to his role as County Commissioner, Potter served as President of the Minnesota Transportation Alliance, Chair of the AMC Transportation Policy Committee, and Board Member of the 1-94 West Coalition. Potter's advocacy for transportation not only secured state and federal funding for many projects throughout Wright County, but it made the greatly needed 1-94 improvements in Wright County a reality. Albertville thanks former Commissioner Mike Potter for his eight years of service and congratulates him on his well -deserved award of WCEDP Citizen of the Year. 6) Not Acceptable •� 1 Carts Placed on Snow Banks • Acceptable Cleared Driveway with Accessible Cart Spacing When placing your recycling and waste out for collection, please be mindful of the plows and areas where heavy snow banks are present. Carts Covered with Excessive Snow W. REPUBLIC 416 SERVICES NEED A BIGGER CART, HAVE A BROKEN CART OR HAVING ISSUES WITH PICK UPS? Please contact Tracey in the Utility Billing Department at 763.497.3384 or tnubbe(aci.albertville.mn.us, Monday -Thursday 7 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. We specialize in you. Complete Women's Healthcare Family Medicine, Nurse Midwives & OB/GYN We strive to inform and empower our patients to live a healthy, well-balanced life. Our women's health services range from prevention, obstetrics and infertility care to breast health, abnormal periods, menopause and more. To learn more, go to stellishealth.com or call 763.684.8300. A Stellis Health , Article by: Wright County News DPS Warns Drivers About School Bus Stop Arms www.co.wright.mn.us The Minnesota Department of Public Safety is warning drivers about the dangers and penalties for ignoring stop arms on school buses. Last year, more than 500 tickets 11� STOppIS \ r n co" School bus stop arms exist to protect children as they are picked up or dropped off by a school bus. Passing a stopped school bus with the stop arm extended Is Illegal. were given to drivers who didn't obey stop arms. MDPS has a video explaining these dangers that can be seen here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=AwKQ2GpsNFE&feature=youtu.be (AmpsE4WIF E 0 1 All traffic coming from both directions must stop when a school bus extends Its r stop arm to pick up or drop off children on _ two-lane roadways. Cameras are turned on when a l{ 6' I_m m_ bus stop arm extends. AMW Violations are captured on camera and violators may face fines up to $300. The program is a partnership among the police departments of the cities of Rollingwood, West Lake Hills and Austin. Sarre Eenw SWC—nit/ Impact Nv pp, Peegn by M-d. Baker VU (31 U.4I Two-lane roadways with a center turn lane require vehicles In all lanes to stop. A four -lane roadway without a median On a highway of four lanes or more with separation requires all vehicles In the a median, only the traffic following the bus opposing and adjacent lanes to stop. Is required to stop. Wright County Crime Stoppers Tip Line www. co. wrigh t. mn. us/235/crime-stoppers- tip -line Crime Stoppers is an online tip reporting system for use by citizens to anonymously submit tips on unsolved crimes in Wright County. WEB TIPS Crime Stoppers of Minnesota is capable of receiving anonymous tips via the internet. In fact, ever since we introduced this capability, 85 percent of the tips received have come from this web tips application. We believe people feel more anonymity in giving tip information via the internet versus talking to a live person. T MidWestOne Bank. Simply better banking! 24/7 CALL CENTER Crime Stoppers of Minnesota utilizes a 24/7 call center that specializes in taking calls from crime stoppers programs throughout the United States. The call center staff has the capability of fielding calls from English and Spanish speaking callers. To contact the call center and to submit a tip, please dial 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). Please, if it is an emergency, do not submit an online tip. By the time we check the message, it may be too late. For emergencies, please dial 911. Peggy S. Sc6umm, CPA, Lt-d.- Certified Public Accountant Peggy Schumm, CPA, President E-mail: peg@cpapss.com 750 Central Avenue E, Suite 201, St. Michael, MN 55376 763-497-7817 1 Fax:763-497-9995 1 cpapss.com STMA Students Head Back to School ___,vTS ARE BACK I In mid -January, STMA Superintendent Dr. Ann -Marie Foucault announced that students would be returning to full-time in -person learning. The transition was set to take place gradually over the course of several weeks, from January 19 through February 16. The decision to bring students back for in -school studies came after parents were surveyed about learning models. More than 70 percent of parents replied, of which more than 90 percent preferred to have students return for in -person education. With K-12 students now fully back in school, administrators at ISD 885 have a firm plan in place to promote behaviors to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. Among other guidelines, that safety strategy consists of masks, regular hand washing, social distancing as much as possible, modified layouts of classrooms and cafeterias, and cleaning and disinfecting common touch- / point areas. Students and staff are also encouraged to take outside breaks r throughout the day, which will become more routine with the spring thaw and warmer temps just around the corner.' STMA schools are committed to students first, which includes their safety, well-being, and social welfare. The district started the 2020-21 year with a hybrid model and still offers distance learning for any student who feels uncomfortable returning to in -person schooling. To learn more about the STMA schools and learning models or to stay informed of news and COVID-19 updates, visit stma.k12.mn.us. I PCONSEC?UTIVE � YEARS DER Get real insights that get homes sold. When you're ready to make your next move, we're ready to put our insights to work for you. Edina Realty. V a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate 1 Shelly Matuska Managing Broker 763-221-7050 shellymatuska.edinarealty.com shellymatuska@edinarealtyxom Jaclyn Prall Title Closing Manager 763-271-5520 edinarealtytitle.com jacklynprall@edinarealtytitle.com i- Jeffrey Stephens Mortgage Consultant - NMLS 400831 612-743-7315 edinarealtymortgage.com jeffreystephens@edinarealtymortgage.com Q Monticello & Buffalo Off iceS And the Surrounding Areas EXCEPTIONAL BUFFALO: 763-682-3434 MONTICELLO: 763-295-3456 PROPERTIES 311 10th Ave. S EdinaRealty.com 9240 Hwy. 25_ Tips for Toilet Maintenance Toilets are the kind of appliance in your home that you don't put much thought into... until something goes wrong. Although your toilets usually do not require a whole lot of maintenance, there are a few things you can do to keep them working properly and catch problems before they become an issue. Listed below are six toilet maintenance tips for homeowners: 01 Don't use your toilet as a garbage can. Toilets are designed to only handle human waste and toilet paper. Things that do not belong in a toilet: • Avoid flushing • Cleaning wipes paper towels • Dental floss • Q-tips • Any other • Women's products bathroom products Inspect your toilet for leaks. Anytime you are cleaning your bathroom, take a minute to inspect your toilet for any signs of leaks. Look for stains or wet areas around the toilet as well as on the waterline that connects to the toilet from the wall. Undetected water leaks can cause major damage. 03 Test for leaks with food coloring. About once a year, you can check for leaks in your tank on your own. To do this, add about six drops of food coloring to your tank and let it sit for 30 minutes. When you return, check your toilet bowl to see if the water has changed color. If it has changed, you have a leak that should be repaired by a licensed plumber. 04 Check the watershut off valve. You should check the shutoff valve about once a year. To test the shutoff valve, simply turn the knob to ensure that it is working properly. A faulty knob might need to be replaced. 05 Make sure the fill valve is working properly. The fill valve is located in your toilet tank and is responsible for refilling your tank with water after it has been flushed. If you're having problems with your toilet, remove the tank lid, flush the toilet, and make sure after the tank has refilled that the fill valve has completely stopped dispensing water. If it doesn't and you cannot fix the problem on your own, please contact a licensed plumber. 06 Water Usage. To conserve water, you may want to purchase a water saver toilet not to exceed 1.6 gallons per flush. Non -water conserving fixtures and leaks will increase your water usage, which results in higher water bills. Have a new phone number, canceled a home -line, updated your email address, or changed your last name? Please contact Tracey in the Utility Billing Department and have your account updated. She can be reached at tnubbe(aci.albertville.mn.us or 763.497.3384 Monday -Thursday 7.00 a.m. - 5.30 p.m. 2020 Fire NisERryi� Department Awards I V1- VVI_U IV�CCI�I7V Vh.J FIRE • Top Volunteer Hours: t. Deputy Fire Chief Jeff Davis — 56.5 Volunteer Hours • Department average = 24 hours REscuE TOP CALLER 0 fSi.19 • Top Caller: Firefighter Jared Grove — 307 Calls — 75.62% • Department average = 38.28% FIRE INIM Premier Banks FDIC Bank Local. Bank Premier. Albertville Office 1 763.497.8224 1 premierbanks.com iAm, w'% I Am Welcome Bob Zagorski to Albertville City Council! With the resignation of Councilmember Rebecca Halling in early January, the City Council has appointed Bob Zagorski to complete the remaining 2 years of the term. Bob was sworn into office by City Clerk Kris Luedke on Thursday, January 28, 2021. Bob is very excited to continue his involvement within the community. He can be contacted via email at rzagorski(aci.albertville.mn.us. Discover the GA Advantage! T, E 4 I, We r Albertville Community! Guardian Angels SENIOR COMMUNITY Engel Haus Call Today - Apartments Available! 763-498-4594 5101 Kassel Ave NE, Albertville, MN Help us showcase the City of Albertville, MN WE ARE IN SEARCH OF BEAUTIFUL PHOTOS FROM THE COMMUNITY. Please submit any photos that highlight what you love about life in Albertville! HOW TO SUBMIT YOUR PHOTO(S) Email photos to ajones(dci.albertville.mn.us. Photos may be cityscapes, parks, activities, landscapes, events, plants, animals, pets, etc. highlighting the City of Albertville — let us know photographer name, location (or event name), and date of the photo for copyright credit. GUIDELINES Photos must be taken within Albertville city limits Entries must be submitted by the original photographer. Your submission of the photo and entry is your guarantee that you are the author and copyright holder of the photo. If photos contain people, we need written permission from those individuals. Photos submitted may be used in city publicity, including city publications, the city website, and city social media sites. Parts Special i 10% OFF until 12/31/2021 with this coupon! ■------------ QALBERTVILLE QELKO 877.949.2727 800.340.8724 6550 Karston Way NE 10405E 260th St. Your Guide to R.V. Trailers £r Truck Accessories since 1965 Tent Fr Travel Trailers ` 5th Wheels Campers Propane Fill Available Your Rockwood Headquarters for Over 25 Years! niemeyers.com 0 STMA Dome Days (zozi) posted on January 11, 2021 www.stmamom.com The STMA All -Purpose Facility opens again this winter for local families to enjoy! ECFE is hosting open play times for little ones on most Monday and Wednesday mornings starting in January. These open play times give kids a chance to run and jump out all their energy on the huge synthetic turf field. My kids and I love the feeling of being in the "grass" while the outside world is so bleak and cold. I recommend dressing in layers —the inside of the Dome can be chilly, but active kids and parents will warm up quickly. You can expect a few changes this year due to the pandemic. Masks are required for anyone over the age of 5. There are also no inflatables this year, and a few other close -contact toys such as tunnels have also been removed. Kids can still enjoy playing with balls, parachutes, bean bag toss, and more. Dome Days run from 8:15 to 9:30 a.m., and the cost is just $2 per child (max $5 per family), payable by cash at the door. The capacity is limited to 100 attendees, but I'd say it's safe to assume we'll never hit that. ECFE DOME DAYS Mondays & Wednesdays, 8:15-9:30 a.m. Over an hour of running, playing, and jumping for your active little ones! Age -appropriate game equipment such as balls, parachutes, and more for kids 0-6. ECFE staff will be on hand to join in the fun. $2/child or $5/family (Adults are free) Pay cash at the door. STMA ALL-PURPOSE FACILITY Located at St. Michael -Albertville High School 5800 Jamison Ave. NE, St. Michael Snowmobile Safety Tips www.dnr.state.mn.us/snowmobiting/safety.htmi WATCH THE WEATHER AND CHECK TRAIL CONDITIONS BEFORE RIDING Don't ride in adverse weather conditions. Plan your trip and check the trails you'll be riding prior to departure. Check trail conditions and trail maps at www.dnr.state.mn.us. DON'T DRINK ALCOHOL AND RIDE Alcohol is a factor in over 70 percent of all fatal accidents in Minnesota, as well as many non -deadly snowmobile accidents. Alcohol and drugs have a negative effect on the driver's vision, balance, coordination, and reaction time. Don't ride with people who drink and ride! Minnesota is part of a larger coalition of snowmobiling states that support "Zero Alcohol" consumption before or during your ride. NEVER RIDE ALONE Always ride with a friend on another snowmobile. This way if one machine is disabled, you have another to get help. DRESS FOR SAFETY & SURVIVAL Always wear a quality DOT helmet and face mask. Wear layers of clothing to keep warm and dry. Snowmobile suits, bibs, jackets, gloves, and mittens should cut the wind, repel water, and keep you ventilated. City Ordinance 1-3-4: RECREATIONAL VEHICLES: A. All Minnesota safety and required equipment laws apply to all recreational vehicles. B. All Minnesota state laws regarding prohibited conditions and operations apply to all recreational vehicles. C. The following are prohibited conditions and operations of recreational motor vehicles within the city: 1. On the private property of another without lawful authority or consent of the owner (or occupant) of such property. 2. On public sidewalks, walkways or trails provided or used for pedestrian travel. 3. On or across park lands or ice skating rinks, whether on lakes or flooded areas, nor shall such vehicles park on such area unless such areas have been specially designated for such use. 4. On any publicly owned lands and/or frozen waters, including, but not limited to, school grounds, playgrounds, it SCHERER R 0 BROS. LUMBER CO. Truss Design & Mfg Working at Scherer Bros. is more than just a job. It's a culture of excellence, craftsmanship, teamwork, and fun. f►y 1111591Ta.111111191TYJ 01 Excessive speed is a major factor in many accidents, especially at night. To help avoid accidents, keep your nighttime speed under 40 MPH. STAY TO THE RIGHT Almost every trail is a "two-way' trail. So stay to the far right of the trail, especially on hills and corners. Obey all trail signs and cross roadways with extreme caution. STAY ON THE TRAIL OR STAY HOME Trespassing is a major complaint about snowmobilers and can result in trail closure. Always stay on designated snowmobile trails. Venturing off of trails can result in accidents. Only ride on private property when you have landowners' permission. RIDING ON ICE - LAKES & RIVERS It is safest to avoid riding on lakes and rivers. If you must ride on ice, wear a life jacket over your outer clothing. Stay on the marked trail and stay off of ice that has moving water (current) near or under it - ice in these areas may be thin and weak. TAKE A SNOWMOBILE SAFETY TRAINING COURSE! Designed to educate the student on basic snowmobile operation, laws and regulations, and safety. www.dnr.state.mn.us/safety/vehicle/snowmobile/index.htmi and recreation areas, unless such areas have been specially designated for such use, except as provided in section 7-3-5 of this chapter. 5. While under the influence of alcohol, controlled substances, or combination of both. 6. At a speed greater than reasonable and proper under all the surrounding circumstances. 7. At any place in a careless, reckless or negligent manner so as to endanger the person or property of another or to cause injury or damage thereto. 8. In a manner so as to create a loud, unnecessary or unusual noise which disturbs, annoys or interferes with the peace and quiet of other persons. 9. In any cemetery. 10. In any planting or tree nursery in a manner which damages or destroys growing stock. (Ord., 1988; amd. Ord. 1997-5, 5-6-1997, 2005 Code) Please contact the Wright County Sheriff with any violations at 763.682.1162. i r f 1z Tke Best 7�S Creel In. Tke. -Fw Check out our current job opportunities online www.schererbros.com/careers/ ' Albertville - 763-488-8604 Spring Tree Trimming Routinely in the spring and fall, City crews trim trees located throughout the City. Trees maintained by the City are typically located in parks or along City streets in boulevards. Boulevard trees are generally located between the curb and sidewalk or are located within six feet from the back of the curb. Trees are trimmed with the goal of creating one central leader and for the lowest permanent branch to be at 14-16 feet above grade. This will make the tree stronger, less prone to wind damage, and also allows for safe pedestrian, car, and truck travel. The goal is easier to meet if pruning starts when the trees are young. However, if the tree is well established it may take several years of pruning. In some cases, as with much older and larger trees, trimming will be focused on removal of dead or broken branches and height clearances for pedestrians and vehicles. If you have any questions regarding a City tree or would like some advice regarding trees on your property, please feel free to call Tim Guimont (Albertville Public Works) at 763.497.3145. Henningson & Sn oxell LTD. ATTORNEYS AT LAW 0 Since 1981 Estate Planning M Probate Elder Law 7-v5 Family Law • Custody Conservatorships W, �� �--, J Litigation & Dispute Resolution Business & Corporate Law Real Estate Nonprofit Law Employment Law 763.560.57001 hennsnoxiaw.com 6900 Wedgwood Road, Suite 200, Maple Grove Now Seeking planning Commission Applicants! The City of Albertville is now accepting applications for the Planning Commission. The Planning Commission is an advisory board to the Albertville City Council. The group of five members meets once a month, on the second Tuesday of the month. WHAT DOES THE PLANNING COMMISSION DO? The commission helps advise the City Council on planning the city. From looking at the comprehensive plan of the city, planning, and zoning regulations, and land use plans, the members are able to conduct public hearings and hear from residents before voting and making a recommendation to the Council. Past projects have included discussion of city business regulations, sign code updates, and re -zoning requests. Regular meeting attendance is expected by all members. HOW TO BECOME PART OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION Please submit a letter of interest in becoming a member by April 1 explaining why you are interested, any relevant experience, and your history in the community. Review of letters of interest and interviews are tentatively planned for April 2021. Official appointment to the Planning Commission; will then be made by the City Council. Please submit your letter of interest to: City of Albertville Attn: City Clerk 5959 Main Avenue NE, Albertville, MN 55301 If you have questions, you may call 763.496.6801 or email kluedke(aci.albertville.mn.us. Via Albertville Lions Facebook Page 1125121: Albertville Lions Club Are Giving A Helping Hand! Lions provided FYCC with additional skate helpers for the young citizens of Albertville down at the rinks at Lions Parks. Six of these were delivered to the rink. Thank you to Kyle Hansen, Rick Anderson, Ron Goblirsch, and Pat Adamski for your help! Meals On Wheels meals SERVING OUR COMMUNITY WHEN n WE NEED IT MOST! U��'teels The Crow River Senior Center is the Meals on Wheels site for Albertville, Hanover, and St. Michael. If you know of a senior 60 and over who needs this service, please share this information with them. The cost is $4.50 per meal. Meals are delivered by volunteers Tuesday through Friday and are prepared by the River Inn of Hanover. Currently we are delivering to over 90 participants. The Meals on Wheels program is available for those seniors in need of a hot fresh meal unable to prepare for themselves and are homebound. Especially during Stay Safe MN statewide restriction, we are here to help fill the need. Meals on Wheels is an essential program that will keep running. If you are in need, please call right away to get signed up. It's quick to get signed up and is for any senior 60 and over. If there is a financial hardship, please call me; we have a program that may work for you. Please call and speak to Vonnie at 763.497.8936 or email for information at vwaters(dcrowriverseniorcenter.com. \ 1 We are always looking for 1iomore delivery drivers. Please inquire if you are interested. Meals on Wheels Just one day per month we rfWdZs delivering helps a great deal. "NOTICE: If you had purchased a meal punch card from the Center and are interested in picking up a to -go meal at the Center, we will continue with Thursday meal pickup at the Senior Center parking lot. Please call 763.497.8900 for more details. Local Board of Appeal and Equalization Meeting MONDAY, APRIL 5, 6:15 P.M. ALBERTVILLE CITY HALL On an annual basis, the Wright County Assessor's office reviews the estimated market value of your property to determine if changes in the real estate market or improvements to your property warrant a change in the estimated market value. Each spring, the Wright County Assessor's office will mail a valuation notice informing property owners of the estimated market value and classification. If a property owner believes the estimated market value and/or classification to be incorrect or has questions regarding the notice, please contact the Wright County Assessor's office at 763.582.7367. If you are not satisfied with the information provided by the Assessor's office, you are welcome to attend the Local Board of Appeals and Equalization meeting. The Board will convene at 6:15 p.m. on Monday, April 5 in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 5959 Main Avenue NE. The meeting is an opportunity for residents to question and contest the assessed value of the property. uul 2021 SPRING CLEANUP Wednesday, May 5 - Friday, May 7 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Residents of Albertville and Otsego will need to present identification to verify residency and drop items off at Metro Appliance Recycling at 16403 60th Street NE in Otsego. Items accepted and the cost for residents: Residential appliances ........... $10 / each Televisions/monitors .............. $25 / each up to 25" Televisions/monitors .............. $35 / each up to 32" TVs over 32" and consoles ........ $75 / each Electronics and computers ....... $5 / each Miscellaneous electronics ........ $.35 / pound Scrap metal ..................... FREE Batteries ........................FREE Passenger car tires ............... $6 / each Passenger truck tires: ............ $12 / each Fluorescent bulbs ................ $.50 / each Cell phone ...................... FREE Items not accepted include: paint, oil, antifreeze, camper fridge, yard waste and household garbage. Contact Metro Appliance Recycling at 763.241.8787 with questions. Lefebvre's Carpet "Your Total Floor Store Since 1986" 763.441.4181 9310 Parrish Ave NE, Otsego www.LefebvresCarpet.com A DOGGY TALE Written & Submitted by: Carmen Robeck, Albertville, MN 1114121 Folks love their pets We know that's true, They're family don't you know. We sleep with them We play with them We walk them in the snow. But come the Spring And flowers bloom The secret now is out You've left behind Unwelcome clues That makes me want to shout! So please pick up The "you know what" Your doggie hopes you will, So do the kid Just down the block And runners up the hill City Ordinance U••z-1:�: EXCREMENT REMOVAL: A. Owner's Property: The owner of any dog or any person having the custody or control of any dog shall be responsible for cleaning up any feces of the animal and disposing of such feces in a sanitary manner. B. Property Of Another; Public Property: 1. It is unlawful for any person owning, keeping, or harboring a dog to cause or permit said dog to be on property, public or private, not owned or possessed by such person, without having in his/her immediate possession a device for the removal of feces and depository for the transmission of excrement to a proper receptacle located on the property owned or possessed by such person. 2. It is unlawful for any person in control of, causing, or permitting any dog to be on any property, public or private, not owned or possessed by such person, to fail to remove feces left by such dog to a proper receptacle located on property owned or possessed by such person. C. Exemptions: The provisions of this section shall not apply to the ownership or use of seeing eye dogs by blind persons, dogs when used in police activities by the City, or tracking dogs when used by or with the permission of the City. D. Citation Issuance: Any animal control authority, or any duly authorized officer or agent authorized by the City Administrator, may issue citations. (Ord. 2007-04, 4-2-2007) Picking Up After Your Dog is More Important Than You Think! by Cara @ Doggy Do Good Responsible dog owners pick up after their pets in public places. However, there are times when owners neglect to pick up their dog's poop because they are in a rush, don't have poop bags, and so on. Because of this, you've probably stepped in more than your share of undisposed dog poop. Chances are you've stepped in dog poop and not even been aware of it until you smell a disgusting scent wafting through your car. This and other reasons are why it is so important to clean up after your dog. 1. IT'S COMMON COURTESY Picking up after your dog is not only common courtesy but your duty as a pet owner. When you take your dog for a walk away from your home, you are entering public property. Because you own your dog, what waste your dog makes is your responsibility to ► pick up. It is even the law to clean up after your pet in some 1 urban and suburban areas. Plus, it's just good manners. 2. DOG POOP IS NOT A FERTILIZER IE If you think, as many people do, that dog waste is a natural fertilizer, think again. Since most dogs' diets are high in protein, it has the reverse effect of fertilizer. Dog poop is exceptionally high in nitrogen and phosphorus, so if you let your dog's waste lay in your grass, it can actually cause burns in your lawn. Since it's so acidic, it will kill your grass if it isn't picked up. Dog waste isn't the same as cow manure since cows eat plant matter. While cow poop can be used as compost in gardens and fields, dog poop cannot. In fact, dog poop can contaminate fruits, vegetables, and surrounding areas with harmful bacteria. 3. DISEASE -CAUSING BACTERIA AND PARASITES The parasites and bacteria in dog waste can spread disease to other dogs and even you, if not properly picked up. E. coli and salmonella are some of the bacteria which are carried in dog waste, plus, Coronavirus, Giardiasis, Parvovirus, Cryptosporidiosis, Salmonellosis, and Campylobacteriosis, along with several types of worms. The parasites and bacteria can stay in the soil for years. By not picking up after your dog, you're putting other people's pets at risk for exposure to harmful bacteria. 4. IT WILL NOT WASH AWAY ON ITS OWN If you believe that dog poop will break down or just wash away, you're wrong. Dog waste can take up to 12 months to break down. Plus, when rainwater washes over dog poop, it flows into the drainage systems. Then the contaminated water is carried into lakes, streams, and rivers. What this means is the next time you go swimming in your favorite spot, you could be swimming in fecal water.. Off -Leash Dog Parks Surrounding Albertville www.bringfido.com Exercise and socialization for dogs help maintain their mental and physical health. There are 13 off -leash dog parks within 20 miles of Albertville. Below are references for local parks. Please contact the location/park directly with any questions. • Winter Park (fenced area) — Albertville, MN • Elm Creek Reserve Dog Park — Maple Grove, MN • Crow -Hassan Park Reserve — Hanover, MN • Fish Lake Regional Park Dog Park — Maple Grove, MN • Lake Orono Off Leash Dog Park — Elk River, MN • Lake Sarah Regional Dog Park — Rockford, MN • Carlson Dog Park at Cedar Knoll Park — Minneapolis, MN • Iron Horse Dog Park — Crystal, MN • Elm Creek Park Reserve — Maple Grove, MN • Lions Valley Place Dog Park — Crystal, MN • Long Lake Dog Park — Long Lake, MN • Watertown Dog Park — Watertown, MN • Monti Paws Park — Monticello, MN • Alpine Dog Park — Ramsey, MN PLEASE REFERENCE CITY CODE 6-2-4 DOGS AT LARGE PROHIBITED: No dog shall be allowed by its owner to run at large, and every owner of a dog shall cause the same to be: A. Confined to the owner's property by training, fencing, or leashing, and females in heat shall be confined in an enclosure and so kept and confined therein during such entire period and until such dogs shall not attract other dogs on account thereof. B. While in any public place, such as a school, playground, or a park, to be on a leash, chain, or cord of not more than six feet (6) in length and in the custody of a person of sufficient age to adequately control the dog at all times. C. While in all other areas, such as on a public street or in an automobile, to be in the custody of a person of sufficient age to adequately control the dog at all times, and to have and keep said dog under control. (Ord. 2007-04, 4-2-2007) Recycling Rate Increase The City's contract for recycling services with Republic Services will expire May 31 of this year. The City is currently negotiating a potential five-year contract extension with Republic. Due to increased recycling costs, it is anticipated recycling rates charged by the hauler will increase. The current rate is $3.32 per home. The increased recycling rate will begin June 1, 2021. For additional information regarding city utility rates, please call City Hall at 763.497.3384. month in the areas of Albertville, Hanover, St. Michael, and parts of Corcoran and Loretto. Located in the lower level of St. Paul's Lutheran Church 1024 Church St NE, Hanover HanoverAreaFoodShelf.org 763.498.0086 Fri: 12 00 - 2:00pm, Wed: 10:00am - 2:00pm, 1 st & 3rd Mon: 5:00pm - 7:00pm Fourteen Reasons Why Property Taxes Vary From Year To Year THE MARKET VALUE OF A PROPERTY MAY CHANGL. • Each parcel of property is assessed at least once every five years and a sales ratio study is done to determine if the property is assessed similarly to like properties. If not, the Commissioner of Revenue may issue an "order" that would affect the taxable value of a parcel. • Additions and improvement made to a property generally increase its market value. THE MARKET VALUE OF OTHER PROPERTIES IN YOUR TAXING DISTRICT MAY CHANGE, SHIFTING TAXES FROM ONE PROPERTY TO ANOTHER. • If the market value of a property increases more or less than the average increase or decrease in a taxing district, the taxes on that property will also change. • New construction in a taxing district increases the tax base and will affect the district's tax rate. THE STATE GENERAL PROPERTY TAX MAY CHANGE. • The state legislature directly applies a State General Property Tax to commercial/industrial and season/recreational property classes. THE CITY BUDGET AND LEVY MAY CHANGE. • Each year, cities review the needs and wants of their citizens and how to meet those needs and wants. This is called "discretionary spending" in the city budget. Also included in the budget is non -discretionary spending which is required by state and federal mandates and court decisions and orders. THE TOWNSHIP BUDGET AND LEVY MAY CHANGE. • Each March, townships set the levy and budget for the next year THE COUNTY BUDGET AND LEVY MAY CHANGE. • Each year, counties review the needs and wants of their citizens and how to meet those discretionary needs and wants. In addition, also included in the county budget is nondiscretionary spending which is required by state and federal mandates and court decisions and orders. As much as 60 to 85 percent of the county expenditures are used to deliver mandated services. THE SCHOOL DISTRICT'S BUDGET AND LEVY MAY CHANGE. • The Legislature determines basic funding levels for K-12 education and mandates services that schools must perform. On average, approximately 70 percent of school costs are • 7 ,� • paid by the state. ' • Local school districts set • • levies for purposes including safe school and community education, etc. A SPECIAL DISTRICT'S BUDGETAND LEVY MAY CHANGE. • Special districts such as the Metropolitan Council, hospital districts, watershed districts, drainage districts, etc. set levies to balance their budgets. SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS MAY BE ADDED TO YOUR PROPERTY TAX BILL. • Water lines, curb and gutter, and street improvements that directly benefit your property may be funded, in whole or in part, through a special assessment that is added to your tax bill. VOTERS MAY HAVE APPROVED A SCHOOL, CITY/TOWNSHIP, COUNTY, OR SPECIAL DISTRICT REFERENDUM. • Local referendums may be held for local government construction projects, excess operating levies for schools, or many other purposes. • Referendum levies may be spread on the market value or the tax capacity of a property depending on process and type of referendum levy. FEDERAL AND STATE MANDATES MAY HAVE CHANGED. • Both the state and federal governments require local governments to provide certain services and follow certain rules. These mandates often require an increase in the cost and level of service delivery. AID AND REVENUE FROM THE STATE AND FEDERAL GOVERNMENTS MAY HAVE CHANGED. • Each year the state legislature reviews and adjusts the level of funding for a variety of aids provided to local governments including Local Government Aid and County Program Aid. The formulas for how aid is determined and distributed among local governments may have changed. • While direct aid and revenue from the federal government to local governments has declined greatly in recent years, federal revenue continues to be a key portion of the local government revenue stream and that revenue stream may have changed. THE STATE LEGISLATURE MAY HAVE CHANGED THE PORTION OF THE TAX BASE PAID BY DIFFERENT TYPES OF PROPERTIES. • A change in class rates will require a change in the tax rate to raise the same amount of money. OTHER STATE LAW CHANGES MAY ADJUST THE TAX BASE. • Fiscal disparities, personal property taxes on utility properties, limited market value, and tax increment financing are example of laws that affect property taxes. G0Certificate of Achievement for c'ei'trfrcute Excellence in Financial Aclwevemelu ,;,,.,,,.;. Reporting Award Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) has awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting to City of Albertville for its comprehensive annual financial report for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019. The report has been judged by an impartial panel to meet the high standards of the program, which includes demonstrating a constructive "spirit of full disclosure" to clearly communicate its financial story and motivate potential users and user groups to read the report. The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management. The City of Albertville Finance Department has received this award for eleven consecutive years. Budget and Levy In December 2020, the City Council approved a 2.9 percent levy increase for 2021 and a budget of $4,782,871. Therefore, the city levy for taxes payable in 2021 are $4,317,153 (General Operations $2,247,305, Capital Levy $1,324,744, and Debt Levy $745,104) and increase of $121,673 from 2020. I ft0 tmverSneakers" by Tivity Health Sponsored Virtual Fitness Class If you are looking for a free virtual exercise class for seniors, please contact the SilverSneakers instructor, Lori Schoenborn, at theschoenborns@charter.net to be included in our ongoing class Monday and Wednesday mornings at 9:30 a.m. You will need an electronic device with a camera and a microphone, i.e. cell phone, computer, laptop, or iPad. To sign up or inquire, please call Lori Schoenborn at 612.636.0207 or email theschoenborn s(acharter.net. Church of St. Albert The Catholic Church in the Heart of Albertville Come and See Us! Fr. Joe Zabinski Parochial Administrator Mass Times Confession Times Saturday 4:00pm Wed 8:00-8:30am Sunday 9:00am Sat 2:30-3:45pm Tue & Wed 7:30am Sun 8:00-8:45am "Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for 1 am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for yourselves." Matthew 11:28-30 Our church is open for prayer Mon -Fri 9:00am-5:00pm Bible Study Tune in to our starts March 21. Livestream on our Give us a call parish website and and join us! Facebook page! 11400 57th St NE • Albertville 763-497-2474 parish website: churchofstalbert.org facebook.com/stalbertmn In Prime Advertising & Design, Inc. 6450 Wedgwood Road N., Suite 100 Maple Grove, MN 55311-3649 ECRWSS POSTAL CUSTOMER Safe Families For Children Expanding Reach in Wright County Article by: Wright County News, posted on January 25, 2021 Full story may be found at www.co.wright.mn.us. dN" Safe Families At a time in life when someone for Children feels isolated, overwhelmed, and alone from their normal life, having a friend to talk to or lend a helping hand can be critical. For a single parent or a family that is struggling to get from one day to the next, having someone to reach out to can make all the difference in the world. One such group that has successfully filled that void throughout the country is looking to expand its operations in Wright County — Safe Families for Children (SFFC). "We are an organization that is all volunteer driven," said Amy Peterson, SFFC Community Coordinator in Anoka, Sherburne, and Wright counties. "We step into the gap where Social Services could step in. No harm or neglect has been identified with a child, but those families are struggling. "We can step in and offer that support network and community based on what that family needs," Peterson said. "Sometimes, it's just simply a single parent who is just overwhelmed and they need a family friend to walk alongside them with parenting skills. We help with mental wellness support — sometimes when you're dealing only with a small child all day there are times you just want to talk to another adult and they don't have that social network." The people that SFFC assists come from a variety of backgrounds. Some are single parents that have become estranged from their families or peer group and feel overwhelmed with the responsibilities of making ends meet with a small child and little in the way of a support system. Some parents are recovering from addiction, but don't have somewhere for their child to go if they're going through an outpatient program. If a parent is in an inpatient recovery program, SFFC can provide a host home, where children are loved and cared for while the family deals with its struggle. PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAI D PRIME PERMIT NO. 2 What separates SFFC from a lot of organizations is that it takes a big -picture approach to assisting a family — the children as well as the parents. "The main thing that makes us unique is that Safe Families for Children isn't simply about keeping the kids safe, it's also about working with parents to help transform the lives of those parents," Peterson said. "We ask our parents to get some skin in the game. We do goal -setting to try to mend broken relationships if those parents want to and it is possible. It is really parent -driven in taking the steps to reach those goals." Most of the SFFC workload comes from referrals. The group has worked closely with Wright County Health & Human Services, other private community mental wellness programs, and even with law enforcement when it is clear that a family is in need of help. SFFC is looking for community support both in the terms of those volunteering their time and those offering donations. Less than 10 percent of SFFC's funding comes from the state. Most of its funding comes from donations. Those looking to donate or apply to become a volunteer can find that opportunity at www.safe-families.org or by calling the SFFC referral line at 651.762.2777. Peterson said she has spoken to almost every community service and faith -based organization in the county and is hoping that there are more people willing to volunteer for the program because there is a need. Peterson said that many times it can be a kind word or the willingness to listen that can make the biggest difference in the lives of some at an emotional crossroads. It can often be the little things that can provide the helpful nudge in the right direction to help end isolation and get both parent and child on the right track to starting a new, fulfilling chapter in their lives. Drivers Advised to Have Winter Emergency Kit In Their Vehicle Article by: Wright County News www.co.wright.mn.us Although the winter of 2020-21 has been mild by Minnesota standards, we're far from done with winter and the hazards winter weather can bring. All drivers should have an emergency kit in their vehicles in the event your vehicle breaks down or you get in an accident that forces you off the road without immediate help arriving. While it may be difficult to store bottled water in an emergency kit because of its likelihood to freeze, there are numerous items that can be packed and stored in your vehicle. These include: • Blankets, mittens, socks, and hats • An ice scraper or snow brush • A flashlight with extra batteries (batteries wear down quickly in the cold) • Jumper cables • A first aid kit (bandages, adhesive tape, gauze pads, medical wraps) • A multi -tool such as a Leatherman multi -tool or Swiss Army Knife • Road flares or reflective warning triangles • A bag of sand or non -clumping cat litter for tire traction Nobody ever wants to be stranded on the side of the road, but in winter in Minnesota, being on the shoulder or in a ditch can be potentially life -threatening, so having a winter preparedness kit in your vehicle when traveling can be vital in the event you need it.