Loading...
2023 Spring NewsletterNewsletter 03 | Local Board of Appeal and Equalization 05 | Utility Billing Payments 06 | City of Albertville Budget 08 | Recycling 09 | Illicit Discharge 13 | Fire Department Awards 15 | Albertville Royalty Update 16 | Meeting Calendar 2023 SPRING ISSUE Fehn Companies: Calling Albertville, MN Home Since 1971 In May of 1971, Dennis and Bertha Fehn started a business in a small shed in the backyard of the home they had recently purchased in Albertville. They bought a couple of pieces of equipment and a truck, and the company that would eventually become Fehn Companies was born, starting in the sand and gravel industry and providing snowplowing services in winter months. Over the years, more land was purchased behind their home for a shop and an office, both of which were expanded to accommodate growth many times. The children of Dennis and Bertha also worked for the company. In 2008, their sons Mike and Gary purchased the company, which had expanded to include excavating services and a small fleet of trucks. Fehn continued to grow alongside the Albertville community, expanding their shop and office many times to meet the needs of their growing fleet and workforce. In 2019, Gary Fehn became the sole owner. Since then, the company has not only grown in size, but has also adopted a new operating system that allows for growth in additional ways. They have completed work on familiar projects such as STMA Middle School West, County Road 19 upgrade, Albertville Outlet Mall, STMA ice arena, Towne Lakes housing development, and many smaller projects in town. In 2021, Fehn Companies celebrated their 50th anniversary and started construction on a new office building in Albertville. When looking for land for the new office, it was important to stay in Albertville, the City Fehn Companies has called home for so many years. The company worked closely with the City on their latest expansion project, and says it has been a privilege to provide employment and services to the local community. Over the years, Fehn Companies has been greatly involved with many Albertville events and activities, including the Friendly City Days parade and fireworks, the Albertville Royalty program, and Music in the Park. The company takes pride in giving back to a community that has supported them for so many years. “I can’t say enough about the City’s support for our headquarters expansion project,” said Gary Fehn. “They were easy to work with and very supportive of our growth in the community. I’d recommend Albertville to anyone looking for a new home.” Learn more about the company at fehncompanies.com. Local Board of Appeals and Equalization Meeting April 17, 2023 See page 3 for more information. 2 | ci.Albertville.mn.us © Copyright 2023. City of Albertville and Prime Advertising + Design, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be 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 of 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 pm • PARKS COMMITTEE MEETING Held the fourth Monday of the month, 7 pm • PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING Held the second Tuesday of the month, 7 pm • ARENA BOARD MEETING Held the second Monday of the month, 6 pm Notary Available A notary is available at City Hall Mon.-Thurs., 7 am to 5:30 pm. *Reminder, please do not sign document before coming into City Hall + bring a photo id* For advertising opportunities, call 763.551.3705 or email community@primeadvertising.com. primeadvertising.com CITY HALL 5959 Main Avenue NE, PO Box 9, Albertville, MN 55301 763.497.3384 | Fax: 763.497.3210 | www.ci.albertville.mn.us CITY HALL HOURS Monday - Thursday | 7 am - 5:30 pm Closed daily from 12 - 12:30 pm CITY COUNCIL Mayor Jillian Hendrickson, Aaron Cocking, Rob Olson, Bob Zagorski, John Hayden PLANNING COMMISSION Rick Anderson, Paul Buhrmann, Blair Huggins, Stacee Smith PARKS COMMITTEE Leroy Berning, Larry Boller, Tim Guimont, Terrill James, Lauryn White, Pat Adamski ARENA BOARD MEMBERS Aaron Cocking, Kari Dwinnell, Ryan Gleason, Tim Lewis, Travis Weber, Keith Wettschreck, Bob Zagorski PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT 763.497.3145 | After Hours: 763.496.6809 11822 63rd Street NE, Albertville, MN 55301 SEWER/WATER DEPARTMENT 763.497.3384 x 132 | 11728 63rd Street NE, Albertville, MN 55301 LAW ENFORCEMENT Emergency: 911 | Non-Emergency: 763.682.1162 FIRE DEPARTMENT Emergency: 911 | Non-Emergency: 763.497.3384 x107 11350 57th Street NE, Albertville, MN 55301 STMA ICE ARENA 763.497.6749 | 5898 Lachman Avenue NE, Albertville, MN 55301 FREQUENTLY CALLED NUMBERS FYCC: 763.496.6820 | www.myfycc.com Crow River Senior Center: 763.497.8900 | www.crowriverseniorcenter.com Great River Regional Library: 763.497.1998 | www.griver.org Recycling provided by Republic Services: 952.941.5174 ISD #885 STMA Schools: 763.497.3180 | www.stma.k12.mn.us ISD #728 Elk River Schools: 763.241.3400 | www.isd728.org Post Office: 1.800.275.8777 | www.usps.com Wright County Government Center: 763.682.3900 | co.wright.mn.us FOR ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES 763-684-8300 | stellishealth.com SAME-DAY APPOINTMENTS Right in your neighborhood Spring 2023 | 3 Welcome John Hayden to Albertville City Council! With the election of Councilmember Walter Hudson to Minnesota State Representative for District 30A, the Council has appointed John Hayden to complete the remaining two years of Councilmember Hudson’s term. Councilmember Hayden was sworn into office by City Clerk Kris Luedke on February 6, 2023. John Hayden was a member of the Albertville Planning Commission and is excited to continue his involvement within the community. He can be contacted via email at jhayden@ci.albertville.mn.us. Local Board of Appeal and Equalization Monday, April 17, 6:15 pm 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 763.682.7367. 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 pm on Monday, April 17 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. Gas Franchise Fee – Ordinance 2022-10 For many years, Albertville has had a franchise agreement in place with CenterPoint, but has not imposed a charge. This past fall during the City’s budget process, and working closely with CenterPoint, the City did impose the 5% franchise fee on all CenterPoint customers in Albertville (residential and commercial). The revenue generated from the fees will be used to offset the tax levy and will be designated to a specific fund, such as street maintenance. Albertville has not used special assessments to fund street maintenance and with aging infrastructure and rising costs, a predictable revenue source such as franchise fee will help fund these types of projects. Additionally, the fee is charged to all gas customers including tax exempt properties (non- profits, schools, churches, etc.) that use the street and the public infrastructure. CenterPoint estimates the fee will generate approximately $125,000 annually. Similarly, Albertville has franchise fees in place with two electric companies and the area cable companies. of Albertville 6050 LaBeaux Avenue NE, Albertville 763-497-4211 | acehardware.com WE CARRY ALL THE BEST BRANDS in bar-b-que grills and outdoor power equipment Stop in today and check out our selection of Grill & Patio and Lawn & Garden Mon-Fri 8am-8pm Sat 8am-6pm, Sun 9am-6pm Our dentists o er the utmost care to moms, dads and kids of all ages. 11091 Jason Ave NE Suite 3 | Albertville 763-497-2822 Park Dental Albertville-St. Michael 4 | ci.Albertville.mn.us What is Storm Water? Storm water is water from precipitation that flows across the ground and pavement when it rains or when snow and ice melt. The water seeps into the ground or drains into what we call storm sewers. These are the drains you see at street corners or at low points on the sides of streets. Collectively, the draining water is called storm water runoff. GOOD RAIN GONE WRONG Storm water becomes a problem when it picks up debris, chemicals, dirt, and other pollutants as it flows or when it causes flooding and erosion of stream banks. Storm water travels through a system of pipes and roadside ditches that make up storm sewer systems. It eventually flows directly to a lake, river, stream, wetland, or coastal water. All of the pollutants storm water carries along the way empty into our waters, too, when storm water does not get treated! Pet wastes left on the ground get carried away by storm water, contributing harmful bacteria, parasites, and viruses to our water. Vehicles drip fluids (oil, grease, gasoline, antifreeze, brake fluids, etc.) onto paved areas where storm water runoff carries them through our storm drains and into our water. Chemicals used to grow and maintain beautiful lawns and gardens, if not used properly, can run off into the storm drains when it rains or when we water our lawns and gardens. Waste from chemicals and materials used in construction can wash into the storm sewer system when it rains. Soil that erodes from construction sites causes environmental degradation, including harming fish and shellfish populations that are important for recreation and our economy. Stormwater Utility Update In the fall of 2022, the City underwent an extensive examination of its Stormwater Utility accounts. Specifically, all commercial accounts were reviewed in regards to acreage and percentage of impervious (hardcover) coverage. The Stormwater Utility is charged as a line item on the monthly Utility Billing for each account. A single-family residential parcel is billed a flat rate regardless of size. All other parcels are billed based on the acreage of the parcel and the amount of impervious surface on the site. Stormwater funds are used to fund street permitting requirements, state reporting requirements, ditch maintenance, and storm sewer repairs. 2023 COMMERCIAL STORMWATER RATES: 0-5% Impervious $6.29 per acre monthly 6-35% Impervious $11.85 per acre monthly 36-65% Impervious $16.66 per acre monthly 66-100% Impervious $29.98 per acre monthly • The City has 174 non-residential stormwater accounts. • The City has 2,518 residential stormwater accounts. • As part of the review, all non-residential properties were measured using GIS for size and impervious areas. Medicare Help? Dan Pfeifer Located in Otsego Contact your local Independent Agent Dan Pfeifer at 763.310.7627 pfeiferinsurancesolutions@gmail.com We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options. ATTORNEYS AT LAW Understanding Your Needs, Protecting Your Rights BusinessesBusinesses Litigation & Dispute Resolution Business & Corporate Law Real Estate Nonprofit Law Employment Law Individuals & FamiliesIndividuals & Families Estate Planning Probate • Elder Law Family Law • Custody Conservatorships 763.560.5700 | hennsnoxlaw.com 6900 Wedgwood Road, Suite 200 Maple Grove, MN 55311 Spring 2023 | 5 Utility Billing Payments must be received on or before the 15th of each month at City Hall HOW TO MAKE A PAYMENT: • Drop box within the City’s parking lot located at 5959 Main Avenue NE. • Payment at the front counter within City Hall between the hours of 7 am-5:30 pm Mon.-Thurs. • ACH Direct Payment through the City with an additional discount offered on each of your monthly billings when set up ($2.03 credit applied) – the ACH Direct Payment form can be found on the City website ci.albertville.mn.us. 2023 ALBERTVILLE WATER & SEWER RATES: Water base rates: 0 - 3,333 gallons $8.22 Water usage rates: 3,334 - 6,667 gallons $0.87 per 1,000 gallons Water usage rates: 6,668 - 11,667 gallons $0.93 per 1,000 gallons Water usage rates: over 11,668 gallons $0.96 per 1,000 gallons Sewer base rate: 1 - 5,000 gallons $24.19 Sewer usage rate: Per 1,000 over 5,000 gallons $4.25 Reminder: Monthly utility bills are sent the 3rd week of the month. Payments are due on the 15th of the following month. A 10% late charge will be added if not received by the due date. 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. Jaclyn Prall Title Closing Manager 763-271-5520 edinarealtytitle.com Monticello & Buffalo Offices And the Surrounding Areas BUFFALO: 763-682-3434 311 10th Ave. S EdinaRealty.com MONTICELLO: 763-295-3456 9240 Hwy. 25 Shelly Matuska Managing Broker 763-221-7050 shellymatuska.edinarealty.com Jeffrey Stephens Mortgage Consultant - NMLS 400831 612-743-7315 edinarealtymortgage.com shellymatuska@edinarealty.com jacklynprall@edinarealtytitle.com jeffreystephens@edinarealtymortgage.com 23 6 | ci.Albertville.mn.us City of Albertville Budget 2023 Below is a summary of the 2023 General Fund Budget. A complete budget may be examined at the Albertville City Hall, 5959 Main Avenue NE, Albertville, MN 55301. The City Council approved this budget on December 5, 2022. Revenues 2022 2023 Expenditures 2022 2023 Property Taxes (excludes MV Credits) $ 2,326,925 $ 2,519,337 General Government (board, admin, etc) $ 860,336 $ 935,264 Franchise Fees $ 195,000 $ 188,000 Public Safety $ 1,742,684 $ 1,977,032 Licenses & Permits $ 210,500 $ 263,000 Streets/Highways (excludes construction) $ 470,435 $ 524,900 State General Purpose Aid (MV Credits, etc) $ 115,251 $ 50,391 Culture & Recreation $ 484,909 $ 524,238 State Categorical Aid $ 120,700 $ 156,700 Misc. Current Expenditures $ 72,000 $ 52,000 Charges for Service $ 636,988 $ 705,756 Total Current Expenditures $ 3,630,364 $ 4,013,434 Fines and Forfeits $ – $ – Debt Services $ 749,908 $ 637,969 Miscellaneous Revenues $ 25,000 $ 10,000 Capital $ 1,455,887 $ 1,601,861 General Fund Reserves $ 25,000 Revenues $ 3,630,364 $ 4,013,434 Total Expenditures & Other Financing Uses $ 5,836,159 $ 6,252,991 Current Debt $ 749,908 $ 637,696 Capital $ 1,455,887 $ 1,601,861 Total Revenue $ 5,836,159 $ 6,252,991 Additional information on the 2023 budget can be found on the City website: ci.albertville.mn.us/services/finance-193. The final budget and tax levy was certified to the Wright County Auditor on December 6, 2022. If residents have questions regarding the 2023 Budget and Levy, please contact Tina Lannes, Finance Director, at 763.497.3384 or tlannes@ci.albertville.mn.us. Spring 2023 | 7 2023 City Budget continued… Each year cities are required to prepare and adopt an annual budget. The budget is one year of estimated revenue, money coming into the City, and expenditures, money going out. It captures City activities and services supported for the coming year. Preparing a City budget involves policy decisions by the Council necessary to assign funding to specific services. Council and staff review the past year and look to the coming year and what City activities may be changed, dropped, or increased. The process of preparing the annual budget typically starts during the summer months. Since property taxes are the primary source of revenue for cities and collected by the County, cities must submit their property tax levies to the county auditor. By the end of September, cities must adopt their proposed budget for the following year and certify their proposed levy to the county auditor. The budget is approved early December by the City Council. n Debt (Annual General Obligation Bond Payments) n General Government (All Other Depts. & Buildings) n Public Works (Building, Streets, Lights, etc.) n Economic Development (taxes) n Planning & Zoning n Public Safety (Police & Fire, Animal Control) n Culture & Recreation (Parks, Library, Senior Center, etc.) n Capital Reserves (set aside for future purchases) EXPENSES n Operations Tax Levy n Licenses & Permits n Intergovernmental n Charges for Services n Misc. Revenue n Capital Tax Levy n Debt Levy REVENUES sainttherese.org/communities/corcoran 952.512.2019 For additional information or to make a reservation for an apartment. A Unique Senior Living Community in Corcoran OPENING IN SPRING 2024! Independent Living | Assisted Living | Memory Care New urbanism is an urban design concept that allows for: • Environmentally friendly habits in a walkable and bikeable space • Featuring a variety of amenities for dining and entertainment • The look and feel of Main Street • Areas open to the public to enjoy a cup of coffee, swim in an indoor pool, attend an outdoor concert, and much more • Residents will have access to all the convenient amenities of an urban location while still enjoying Corcoran’s rural setting • Opportunities for intergenerational interaction • Meaningful connections with the greater community As residents’ needs evolve, access to all the care they need provides reassurance and peace of mind. Featuring Key Elements of New Urbanism A Continuum of Care SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY! CHOOSE FROM A WIDE RANGE OF FLOOR PLANS. RESERVE YOUR APARTMENT TODAY! Do ordinary things with extraordinary love. 8 | ci.Albertville.mn.us Never bag rec yclables Empty. Clean. Dry. Keep all recyclables free of food and liquid Don’t bag it Never put recyclables in containers or bags 2 3 Know what to throw Cardboard, paper, metal cans, plastic bottles and jugs 1 Recycling Basics Designing with Vision. Creating with Quality. REQUEST AN ESTIMATE TODAY (320) 558-4445 JKLandscape.com 19512 Hubble Rd., Clearwater SHORELINE RESTORATION • Rip rap• Erosion control• Barging services• Natural planting buffer LANDSCAPING SERVICES • Landscape lighting• Sod, seed, and mulch• Landscape design/ softscapes• Decorative rocks and plants OUTDOOR LIVING • Outdoor kitchens• Paver patios• Decks• Pergolas and gazebos SCANMEYour DREAM landscape is just around the corner. “Your Total Floor Store Since 1986” 763.441.4181 9310 Parrish Ave NE, Otsego LefebvresCarpet.com MORE MOMENTS ARE MADE ON MOHAWK Carpet | Wood Floors | Laminate | Vinyl Luxury Vinyl Tile | Ceramic Tile | Countertops 10% OFF Carpet Purchase Excluding promotional products, labor and stocked items. Coupon must be presented at the time of the order. ALNLSP2023 Spring 2023 | 9 Six Easy Ways That You Can Keep Illicit Discharges Out of the Watershed 1 Used oil, antifreeze, and batteries can be recycled. Clean up any spills immediately – kitty litter or sawdust will absorb the spill. Be sure to sweep these up as well to prevent them from washing into storm sewers. 2 Wash your car on the grass so that the water, detergent, and dirt can be filtered through the soil. Or an even better option is to take your car to a commercial car wash, where the dirty water is sent to the wastewater treatment plant. 3 Empty bottles of household cleansers, pesticides, and weed killer should be disposed of according to the label directions. 4 Grass clippings in the street should be swept up after each mowing. Grass clippings left in the street can be washed away into the storm sewers. 5 Many household products such as paints, paint thinners, and solvents can be taken to local drop-off sites. Paint brushes used with water-based paint can be rinsed in the sink. If you have a small amount of leftover paint in a can, put some kitty litter in the can to soak it up and then let the paint dry out completely. The paint can then be put in the trash. 6 When walking your pet, use a bag or use a scooper to clean up your pet’s waste. In order to keep animal waste from contaminating our community, anyone who walks a pet should properly dispose of waste by picking it up. Reporting of Illegal Dumping or Suspicious Discharges: Reporting will, in great part, rely on participation from the public. Residents who observe illegal dumping or observe pollutants within waterways or storm sewers should contact the City of Albertville at 763.497.3384 to report a stormwater violation. This program cannot succeed without strong public participation. What is an Illicit Discharge? An illicit discharge is defined as “any discharge into a municipal storm sewer system that is not composed entirely of stormwater.” Some of the pollutants that are considered illicit discharges are: • Car wash wastewater • Gas and motor oil • Grass clippings • Household cleansers • Paints • Pesticides • Pet waste • Solvents • Weed killer Sometimes these pollutants can be transported through the storm drainage system by rain, wind, or improper disposal that ends up in a river. This can result in serious health and water quality problems. 10 | ci.Albertville.mn.us Minnesota Lions Diabetes Foundation Physical Activity Challenge Minnesota Lions Diabetes Foundation is challenging Minnesotans and beyond to a three-month physical activity challenge to raise funds for diabetes research and education. “Physical activity, as well as healthy food and drink choices, help prevent diabetes, and help maintain and restore health,” says Lion Mike Edwards, an Albertville Lions Club member and Minnesota Lions Diabetes Foundation (MLDF) Trustee. “Between February 1 and April 30, be active indoors or outdoors at least 15 miles each month," says Lion Mike. “It may not seem like much, but for some it is a start and others can exceed it as much as is healthy. Walk, swim, curl, roll, run, ski, snowshoe, cycle, bowl, shovel snow – the possibilities are endless.” Register for the Physical Activity Challenge by going to MNLionsDiabetes.org and selecting the STRIDES icon. Register as an individual or create a team and register. The Minnesota Lions Diabetes Foundation’s fundraising site also provides information about diabetes, diabetes screening, converting steps and activity time into miles, personal journey diabetes stories, and more. Net proceeds from STRIDES for Diabetes Awareness registration fees benefit Minnesota Lions Diabetes Foundation, Inc. (MLDF), a 501(c)(3) organization. Founded by Lions members in 2008, the Foundation’s vision is to be a part of finding a cure for diabetes. MLDF raises funds and collaborates with partners to conduct research for a cure for Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, provide diabetes education, and sponsor preventive health activities. Since 2010 MLDF has provided nearly $2 million to fund research and diabetes education. Recreational Motor Vehicle Permit The City of Albertville has updated its Recreational Motor Vehicle Ordinance. The changes allow for more opportunities to use recreational vehicles as well as a new permitting system for Class 1 all-terrain vehicles (ATV) (4-wheelers), Class 2 all-terrain vehicles (ATV) (side-by-side), and golf carts. The permit cost is $50 and lasts for three years. Applications for permitting are available at the Albertville City Hall; please bring your driver’s license, proof of insurance for the ATV and/or golf cart, and your DNR registration number. Upon completion of the registration, residents will be given a permit sticker, which they must display on the back of their authorized recreational vehicle. Permits are required for golf carts and all-terrain vehicle (ATV) both Class 1 and Class 2 for use within the city limits. Permit holders are required to be familiar with the provisions of the Albertville Ordinance, and applicable Minnesota statutes and federal regulations. Applicant must meet Minnesota statute with regards to lighting, licensing, seat belt use, and helmet use. Questions? Contact City of Albertville’s City Clerk at 763.497.3384 or kluedke@ci.albertville.mn.us. Free Area Food Programs HANOVER FOOD SHELF 11024 Church St., Hanover 763.498.0086 Hours: Tuesdays & Fridays 12 Noon to 2 pm Wednesdays 10 am to 2 pm First & Third Mondays 5 pm to 7 pm ALLELUIA LUTHERAN CHURCH & CROSS FOOD SHELF FREE Produce and Bakery Distribution Alleluia Lutheran Church Parking Lot 10401 30th St. NE, St. Michael (south of St. Michael near the intersection of Cty. Rd. 19 & 30th St.) Hours: Second & Fourth Saturdays 10 to 11:30 am FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS. Call us today 763-220-8329 or visit our website dezielhvac.com and get to know us better! • After hours/ emergency service available • Upfront competitive pricing • Financing available • 429 Google & 202 Facebook 4.9 Stars And We’ll Come Running to Your Rescue Spring 2023 | 11 Understanding Radon WHAT IS RADON? Radon is a colorless and odorless gas found in the soil and common throughout Minnesota. Because soil is porous, radon moves up from the soil and into the home. The gas can accumulate in the air we breathe, becoming a health concern. Radon gas decays into fine particles that are radioactive. When inhaled, these fine particles can damage the lung. Exposure to radon over a long period of time can lead to lung cancer. WHAT ARE THE LEVELS IN MINNESOTA? Radon is a serious public health concern in Minnesota. The average radon level in Minnesota is more than three times higher than the U.S. radon level. In Minnesota, more than two in five homes have radon levels that pose a significant health risk. WHAT IS A SAFE LEVEL? Any radon level poses some health risk and it is not possible to reduce radon to zero. The best approach is to lower the radon level as much as possible. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set the action level at 4 pCi/L (picocuries of radon per liter of air). At 4 pCi/L or higher it is recommended to install a radon mitigation system to reduce the radon levels. WHAT CAN I DO? MDH recommends all Minnesotans test their home for radon. A radon test is the only way to find out how much radon is in your home. You can test your home yourself. Start with a short-term test. Your local health department or government agency may offer test kits at reduced prices. You can also order a short-term radon test kit at mn.radon.com. If the radon is high, hire a licensed radon professional to install a radon mitigation system. Licensed radon professionals are on MDH’s website at mn.gov/radonpro. You can find more information on radon, including ordering a radon test kit and how to understand your radon test result, at mn.gov/radon. Radon: Leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers.radon radon SOIL In Minnesota, 2 in 5 homes have high radon. 16 - 35% 36 - 50% 51 - 64% 65 - 80% ( Years 2010 - 2020) Percent of MN Properties Tested D I S C O V E R Y O U RDREAM H O M ETODAY! T H E P R E S E R V E A T A L B E R T V I L L E .C O M (8 4 4 ) 6 9 3 -0 6 8 6 A Brand New Luxury Single Family Home Rental Community S C H E D U L E Y O U R T O U R T O D A Y ! 12 | ci.Albertville.mn.us Albertville Building Department – 2022 Year-End Report Tabulated below is a summary of permit activity in 2022. A total of 863 permits were issued in 2022. The total valuation of this work is approximately $71,888,411 and associated permit fees paid is approximately $845,614 (building permit and plan review fees only). In 2022, there were 74 new single-family permits, a new apartment complex (148 units), six new townhome buildings (five 4-plex buildings and one 6-plex building), five new commercial permits, and 22 commercial addition/remodel permits. In 2022 approximately 1,640 building inspections were completed. The 2022 Permit Log is on file and available at City Hall. Permit Summary Comparison 2019 2020 2021 2022 Total Permits 526 696 837 863 New Homes (single family)19 36 51 74 Multi Family 0 0 0 8 New Commercial 0 2 2 5 Commercial Addition/Remodel 26 11 18 22 Total Valuation $10.17M $21.22M $42.88M $71.88M Apply for benefits easily online. www.mnbenefits.mn.gov APPLY TO THESE PROGRAMS Food assistance (SNAP) SNAP helps Minnesotans get the food they need. You'll get an EBT card that you can use like a debit card to buy groceries at most stores and farmer's markets. Cash programs Cash assistance helps people meet their basic needs until they are able to support themselves. You will get an EBT card that you can use like a debit card. Here are the most common cash programs: • Diversionary Work Program (DWP) • General Assistance (GA) • MN Family Investment Program (MFIP) • MN Supplemental Aid (MSA) • Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA) Emergency Assistance Emergency Assistance helps with shelter payments, such as past due rent, to stop evictions, or foreclosure. It can also be used for utilities when there is a threat of disconnection. Housing Support (GRH) The Housing Support program used to be called Group Residential Housing (GRH). The program helps seniors and adults age 65 or older and/or adults with disabilities who have low income pay for housing costs and things people need to stay housed in certain group settings or in the community. It helps prevent people from living in institutions or becoming homeless. Child Care Assistance Child Care Assistance helps families pay for day child care so that parents can pursue employment or education. It is for children age 12 and younger. For more information, see mn.gov/dhs/child-care. We Are Ready To Help You Today! 763-497-3099 • www.glalawfirm.com 12725 43rd St. NE, Ste. 201, St. Michael, MN 55376 9298 Central Ave. NE, Ste. 418, Blaine, MN 55434 | 7760 France Ave. S, Ste. 1110, Bloomington, MN 55435 Highly experienced attorneys offering estate planning and elder law services: Wills | Trusts | Probate | Conservatorship Power of Attorney | Guardianship | Healthcare Directives Peggy S. Schumm, CPA, President E-mail: peg@cpapss.com 750 Central Avenue E, Suite 201, St. Michael, MN 55376 763-497-7817 | Fax: 763-497-9995 | cpapss.com LET OUR EXPERIENCE WORK FOR YOU! Spring 2023 | 13 2022 Albertville Fire Department Annual Report Summary To review the complete Annual Report, please visit: ci.albertville.mn.us/services/fire-187 On Monday, February 6, 2023, the Albertville Fire Department and City Council recognized Fire Department members for their years of service and for the 2022 Annual Awards. 2022 FIRE DEPARTMENT RECOGNITIONS 2022 Retirements • Deputy Fire Chief J. Davis = 20 years • Firefighter S. Olson = 16 years 2023 Service-Year Awards • 5 Years -Firefighter B. Verville • 10 Years -Firefighter J. Kreutner • 15 Years -Lieutenant K. Anderson -Firefighter D. Eull • 20 Years -Firefighter P. Gonsior -Firefighter R. Tiernan ALBERTVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT AWARDS • 2022 Top Volunteer Hours -Firefighter C. Follett = 99 Volunteer Hours -Department Average = 22 Hours • 2022 Top Caller -Firefighter T. Gonsior = 397 Calls / 72.31% -Department Average = 208 Calls / 37.89% • 2022 Paul Heinen Above and Beyond Award -Winner: Lieutenant G. Gerads -Nominations: N. Dording, D. Eull, J. Eull, C. Follett, K. Gammell, G. Gerads, P. Consior, C. Holzerland, N. Ose The City of Albertville is now seeking Planning Commission Applicants! The Planning Commission is an advisory commission to the Albertville City Council. It is responsible for reviewing the City’s Comprehensive Plan, making recommendations to the City Council involving development projects and zoning issues. The Planning Commission consists of five members who are each appointed by the Albertville City Council. The Commission meets at 7 pm on the second Tuesday of the month. Meetings are held at the Albertville City Hall in the Council Chambers and are open to the public. If you are interested in being considered, please submit a letter of interest by March 24, 2023 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 2023. Please submit your letter of interest to: City of Albertville Attn: City Clerk 5959 Main Avenue NE, Albertville, MN 55301 If you have any questions, you may call 763.496.6801 or email kluedke@ci.albertville.mn.us. Whether for you, your business, or both, we have the skills to meet your unique accounting and tax needs for year end and tax preparation. Your One-Stop Accounting And Tax Shop Offices in St. Michael and Cloquet, MN 14 | ci.Albertville.mn.us ©NFPA 2022 The Problem • Damaged or defective batteries can over- heat, catch fire, or explode. • Lithium-ion battery fires give off toxic gases and they burn extremely hot. Safety Tips • Only purchase and use devices, batteries, and charging equipment that are listed by a nationally recognized testing lab and labeled accordingly. • Always follow the instructions from the manufacturer. • Only use the battery and the charger that were designed for, and came with, the device. • Do not keep charging the device or device battery after it is fully charged. • Only charge one device or device battery at a time to prevent overloading the circuit. • Keep batteries at room temperature when possible. Do not charge them at tem- peratures below 32°F (0°C) or above 105°F (40°C). • Do not store batteries in direct sunlight or inside hot vehicles, and keep them away from children and liquids. • Store e-bikes, e-scooters, and batteries away from exit doors and anything that can get hot or catch fire. • Only have device repairs performed by a qualified professional. • Do not put lithium-ion batteries in the trash. Recycling is always the best option. Take the batteries to a battery recycling location or contact your local waste department for disposal instructions. Signs of a Problem Stop using the e-bike or e-scooter if you notice any of these problems with the battery: unusual odor, change in color, too much heat, change in shape, leaking, smoking, or not keeping a charge. The popularity of electric bikes and electric scooters (e-bikes and e-scooters) has taken off over the past few years. Lithium-ion batteries are usually the source of power for both, and if not used correctly, or if damaged, those batteries can catch on fire or explode. Whether you use e-bikes or e-scooters as your main way of getting around, or just for fun, there are important safety tips to keep in mind when charging or storing these devices. Visit nfpa.org/ebikes LEARN MORE SafetySafety E-Bike and E-ScooterE-Bike and E-Scooter If you see a fire … Leave the building immediately. Don’t try to fight the fire. Call 911. ! ! ! Spring 2023 | 15 Happy 2023, Albertville! We cannot believe another year has come and gone and that it’s time to kick off our 47th year serving our incredible community. Each and every year that passes, we deepen our connections with those in our friendly city and meet new people who leave a lasting impact on us, whether through their friendship, their volunteerism, their philanthropy, or something as simple as a conversation. Along with the nicer weather and longer days, spring brings our Candidate Experience Programs for the youth in our community. Registration for the Junior and Senior Candidate Experience, for current boys and girls in first grade and young ladies aged 16-19, closes the week of March 12. If you or someone you know is interested in joining us, reach out today to Albertville Royalty for more information or to get signed up! We completed our first year’s commitment for the Beyond the Crown initiative, which benefited our 2022 spotlight organization, the Ronald McDonald House. The 2023 spotlight organization is St. Jude’s Childhood Research Hospital. The impact, the history, the moments, and the memories of our program would not be possible without each and every one of our friends and neighbors in Albertville and beyond. From our city staff to the various businesses, groups, and organizations that allow us to volunteer as well as our 46 years of alumni, and all the people who come out to support not only our program but our community at large, we appreciate you and look forward to serving you for years to come! Thank you, Albertville Royalty Back row: Jr. Miss Carly and Emma B. Middle row: Jr. Miss Emma D, Princess Rose, Miss Albertville Hannah, Princess Josie Front row: Jr. Commodore Callan Moody's Upgrades Albertville's Bond Rating On January 25, 2023, Moody’s Investors Service assigned an Aa2 issuer and outstanding general obligation limited tax ratings, upgrade from Aa3, for the City of Albertville, MN. The Aa2 issuer rating reflects the City’s robust financial position, limited and somewhat concentrated tax base, and long-term leverage that is manageable, but expected to grow. The issuer rating also reflects the City's exceptionally strong reserves, which are expected to remain steady. It is expected the City’s financial position to remain a credit strength, given strong budget management. In addition, the City has pledged its full faith, credit, and taxing power for repayment of the bonds. The bonds also benefit from a dedicated ad valorem tax, levied against all taxable property in the City without limitation as to rate or amount. Link to the full press release on ci.albertville.mn.us/services/finance-193. “WHO WE ARE. WHERE WE’VE BEEN. WHERE WE’RE DESTINED. WE TRAVEL TOGETHER.” - DON REGAN, PREMIER BANKS FOUNDER Bank Local. Bank Premier. Albertville Office | 763.497.8224 | premierbanks.com 5702 Lachman Ave. N.E., Albertville 763.432.1912 albertville@lilexplorerschildcare.com LIL’ EXPLORERS, ALBERTVILLE OPENING AUGUST 2023! We provide a safe environment for children ages 6 weeks through Pre-Kindergarten. This new expansive facility will offer plenty of room for your children to learn, grow, and develop, while our caring staff provides a nurturing and enriching atmosphere. WWW.LILEXPLORERSCHILDCARE.COM Prime Advertising + Design, Inc. 6450 Wedgwood Road N., Suite 100 Maple Grove, MN 55311-3649 PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PRIME PERMIT NO. 2 **ECRWSSEDDM** POSTAL CUSTOMER Su M Tu W Th F Sa Su M Tu W Th F Sa Su M Tu W Th F Sa 1 H 2 CC 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 8 Ice 9 PC 10 11 FR 12 13 14 5 CC 6 7 8 9 10 11 5 CC 6 7 8 9 10 11 15 H 16 CC 17 18 19 20 21 12 Ice 13 PC 14 15 16 17 18 12 Ice 13 PC 14 15 16 17 18 22 JP23PK 24 25 26 27 28 19 H 20 CC 21 22 23 24 25 19 CC 20 21 22 23 24 25 29 JM 30 31 26 JP27PK 28 26 JP27PK 28 29 30 31 MAY Su M Tu W Th F Sa Su M Tu W Th F Sa Su M Tu W Th F Sa 1 CC 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 2 CC 3 4 5 FR 6 7 8 7 Ice 8 PC 9 10 11 12 13 4 CC 5 6 7 8 9 10 9 Ice 10 PC 11 12 13 14 15 14 CC 15 16 17 18 19 20 11 Ice 12 PC 13 14 15 16 17 16 CC 17 18 19 20 21 22 21 JP22PK 23 24 25 26 27 18 CC 19 20 21 22 23 24 23 JP24PK 25 26 27 28 29 28 H 29 30 31 25 JP26PK 27 28 29 30 30 Su M Tu W Th F Sa Su M Tu W Th F Sa Su M Tu W Th F Sa 1 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 2 3 H 4 5 6 7 8 6 CC 7 PC 8 9 10 11 12 3 H 4 CC 5 6 7 8 9 9 Ice 10 PC 11 12 FR 13 14 15 13 Ice 14 15 16 17 18 19 10 Ice 11 PC 12 13 14 15 16 16 CC 17 18 19 20 21 22 20 CC 21 22 23 24 25 26 17 CC 18 19 20 21 22 23 23 JP24PK 25 26 27 28 29 27 JP28PK 29 30 31 24 JP25PK 26 27 28 29 30 30 31 Su M Tu W Th F Sa Su M Tu W Th F Sa Su M Tu W Th F Sa 1 CC 2 3 4 FR 4 6 7 1 2 3 4 1 2 8 Ice 9 PC 10 11 12 13 14 5 CC 6 7 8 ~H 9 H 10 11 3 CC 4 5 6 7 8 9 15 CC 16 17 18 19 20 21 12 Ice 13 PC 14 15 16 17 18 10 Ice 11 PC 12 13 FR 14 15 16 22 JP23PK 24 25 26 27 28 19 CC 20 21 22 ~H 23 H 24 25 17 CC 18 19 20 21 22 23 29 JM 30 31 26 JP27PK 28 29 30 24 H 25 JP26PK 27 28 29 30 31 CC City Council Meeting, 7 pm PC Planning Commission, 7 pm Ice STMA Arena Board, 6 pm H Holiday (City offices closed) JP Joint Power Water Board, 6 pm AFCD Albertville Friendly City Days PK Parks Committee, 7 pm JM Joint Governance Meeting, 6 pm FR Fire Relief Association Meeting, 6 pm FB Fire Department Annual Business Meeting, 8 pm DECEMBER JULY MARCH APRIL JUNE AUGUST SEPTEMBER City of Albertville 2023 Official Meeting Calendar ~ City Hall Closed Thurs., PW Closed Fri. JANUARY FEBRUARY OCTOBER NOVEMBER 2023 Official Meeting Calendar