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Otsego View Spring 2017
2017 SPRING NEWSLETTER WHAT'S INSIDE! 03 Mayor’s Corner 04 Spring Clean Up 06 Development Process 08 Community Spotlight Doug Schroeder 10 PARKS & RECREATION Spring/Summer Programs www.ci.otsego.mn.us • cityhall@ci.otsego.mn.us • 13400 90th Street NE, Otsego • 763.441.4414 NORTHWOOD PARK GRAND OPENING MAY 18, 6-7:30PM The City of Otsego is very proud to be hosting a grand opening for Northwood Park. (1600 72nd St. NE) on Thursday, May 18. There will be a meet and greet with City Council members and Park & Recreation Commissioners, games, and bouncies. Come on over to Otsego’s newest park, meet neighbors and have a whole lot of fun. Mayor Jessica Stockamp Takes NWF’s MAYORS’ MONARCH PLEDGE To Help Save the Monarch Butterfly On October 10, 2016 the City of Otsego Mayor, Jessica Stockamp took the National Wildlife Federation’s Mayors’ Monarch Pledge, committing to take three specific actions to help the monarch and other pollinators. This new, national campaign will work with mayors and local government chief executives to help save the declining monarch butterfly. While monarchs are found across the United States — numbering some 1 billion in 1996 — their numbers have declined by approximately 90 percent in recent years, a result of numerous threats, particularly loss of habitat due to agricultural practices, development and cropland conversion. Degradation of wintering habitat in Mexico and California has also had a negative impact on the species. “Mayors and other local government officials play a pivotal role in advancing monarch butterfly conservation in urban and suburban areas,” said Collin O’Mara, president and CEO of the National Wildlife Federation. “By working together we can ensure that every American child has a chance to experience majestic monarchs in their backyards and communities.” Through the National Wildlife Federation’s Mayors’ Monarch Pledge, cities and municipalities commit to creating habitats and educating citizens on ways they can make a difference in their very own home. Mayors who take the pledge commit to at least three specific actions to help save the monarch butterfly. These actions include creating a monarch-friendly demonstration garden at city hall, converting abandoned lots to monarch habitat, changing mowing schedules to allow milkweed to grow unimpeded and 22 other possible actions. The City of Otsego has committed to the following three actions: 1. Plant milkweed and native nectar plants in medians and public rights-of-way. 2. Launch a public communication effort to encourage citizens to plant monarch gardens at their homes or in their neighborhoods. 3. Facilitate or support a milkweed seed collection and propagation effort. CITY HALL Address: 13400 90th Street NE Phone: 763.441.4414 Website: www.ci.otsego.mn.us Email: cityhall@ci.otsego.mn.us Hours: Monday-Thursday 8 am to 5 pm & Friday 8 am to 12 pm PRAIRIE CENTER (Council Chambers) 8899 Nashua Avenue NE TELEPHONE NUMBERS Department of Building Safety: 763.441.2593 Utility Billing: 763.441.2310 After Hours Emergency Service: 1.877.274.6492 Parks and Recreation: 763.235.3148 CITY COUNCIL MAYOR Jessica Stockamp: jstockamp@ci.otsego.mn.us COUNCILMEMBERS Vern Heidner: vheidner@ci.otsego.mn.us Tom Darkenwald: tdarkenwald@ci.otsego.mn.us Jason Warehime: jwarehime@ci.otsego.mn.us Corey Tanner: ctanner@ci.otsego.mn.us CITY STAFF Interim City Administrator: Adam Flaherty City Planner: Daniel Licht City Engineer: Ron Wagner City Clerk: Tami Loff Finance Director: Adam Flaherty Parks and Recreation Director: Ross Demant Street Operations Manager: Kevin Lamson Utility Manager: Kurt Neidermeier MEETING SCHEDULE City Council: 2nd and 4th Monday of the Month. Planning Commission: 1st and 3rd Monday of the Month. Parks & Recreation Commission: 3rd Tuesday of the Month. Heritage Preservation Commission: 2nd Tuesday of the Month. Public Safety Commission: 2nd Tuesday of the Month . *Meeting dates are subject to change; call the city office to confirm dates and times. EDITOR Otsego View Editor: Tami Loff FOR ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES Call Greg Anzelc at 763.551.3726 or email Community@PrimeAdvertising.com PrimeAdvertising.com • MyPrimeGuide.com © Copyright 2017. City of Otsego 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 Otsego 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 Otsego 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. 2 | 2017 Spring Otsego View Please visit our website at dojokarate.com Mighty Dragons Spring Classes Also Enrolling for Kids Ages 3+ $1495 Open for Spring Enrollment Expires 6.15.17 1 Month of Training withFREE Uniform! Dojo Karate!Spring atIt’s Buffalo • Elk River • Maple Grove • Medina Monticello • Rogers • Waconia• [ Mayor’s Corner ] GREETINGS NEIGHBORS! The City Council has always made the safety of the community a top priority. Unfortunately, we have seen a number of residential fires recently. Our fire departments, along with the Wright County Sheriff’s Office, responded immediately to protect life and minimize property damage. Otsego contracts with established fire departments to provide fire protection services to the community. Albertville, Elk River and Rogers Fire Departments each serve a designated area of Otsego (a map of which is available on the City’s website). The fire services provided by the three departments serving Otsego is strengthened by in-place mutual aid agreements by which area fire departments will provide assistance in the event of multiple fire calls. The Albertville Fire Chief is also designated by the City Council as the Otsego Emergency Manager to coordinate emergency services responses in the event of a major event, together with the Wright County Emergency Management Division. Contracting for services has been the most cost effective way for the City to obtain comprehensive fire protection in the community. With continued growth and development, the City Council recognizes the need to expand services and to reduce response times as part of its strategic planning goals. Expanding services and improving response times will include one day building local fire stations. The City has identified sites for future fire station locations, including property at the City Campus, a City owned lot near Parrish Avenue (CSAH 42) and 85th Street, and is searching areas for a third location on the west side of the community. The Capital Improvement Plan, a long-range budgeting tool used by the City Council to plan for future expenditures and investments, includes preliminary cost estimates and identifies funding sources for development and capital purchases for the fire station. The City Council will continue to work with our partner fire departments to move this issue forward. The American Red Cross supports government emergency services to assist residents in a time of need, including providing temporary housing for residents in the City who were victims of a recent townhouse fire. The American Red Cross launched the Home Fire Campaign, a multi- year initiative that aims to reduce nation-wide fire- related deaths and injuries by 25 percent. As part of the campaign, the American Red Cross will conduct home safety visits, install smoke detectors, replace batteries in smoke detectors, prepare evacuation plans, and provide preparedness information. To receive any of these services please call 1.320.251.7641 (option 7) and someone will return your call to set up the appointment in your home. Otsego is served by the Central Minnesota Regional Office. For more information about American Red Cross assistance or to become a volunteer, visit www.redcross.org. Best wishes to you and your family for a happy Spring season! MAYOR Jessica Stockamp VARTY’S GREENHOUSE Committed to providing qualityplants, flowers and organic vegetables at affordable prices! Family Owned & Operated Mon-Sat 8am-8pm Sunday 11am-4pm 13192 192 Ave NW Elk River 763-441-2519vartysgreenhouse.com Landscapes that Capture the Spirit of Your Lifestyle. Contact Us for a FREE Consultation 612.242.5039 www.SignaturePatio.com www.ci.otsego.mn.us | 3 4 | 2017 Spring Otsego View SPRING CLEAN-UP Wednesday-Friday, May 3-5, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The City will again partner with Metro Appliance Recycling to provide residents an opportunity to do some spring cleaning of their yard and home. Clean-Up Week with Metro Appliance Recycling offers City residents discounted rates for disposal of unwanted goods for recycling that cannot be handled in the regular trash. People will need to present identification to verify residency and drop items off at Metro Appliance Recycling at 16403 60th Street NE in Otsego. Items not accepted include: paint, oil, antifreeze, Camper fridge, yard waste and household garbage. The following is a list of items accepted and the cost for residents: Residential Appliances $10 ea.; CRT Televisions/ Monitors $35 ea. up to 32”; CRT TVs over 32” and consoles $65 ea.; Miscellaneous electronics $.35 lbs.; Mattress/box spring $25 ea.; Stuffed chair/couch $35 ea.; Sleeper Sofa $45 ea.; Wood furniture $15 ea.; Passenger Car tires $8 ea.; Passenger truck tires $12 ea.; Fluorescent bulbs $1 ea.; Trash load $45 pickup load to bed rails; Scrap metal, Batteries, and Cell phone FREE. Questions? Call Metro Appliance Recycling at 763.241.8787. HYDRANT FLUSHING The Utility Operations Department will be flushing fire hydrants throughout the City in April. Flushing the hydrants removes sediment and mineral build up within the City’s water lines to maintain water quality and also tests the system for adequate flows. Note that the cap may be left off of some hydrants after the water is turned off to allow the fixture to drain completely but City staff will return to replace the cap. The schedule for flushing is as follows: April 6 Riverwood National: April 10-14 East Otsego: April 17-21 West Otsego. Appliances • Computers Electronics • Bulbs • Ballasts Batteries & More • We Pick Up! 763.241.8787 ThinkGreenMN.com Located off of 101 in Otsego Computers & Electronics Starting At $11$11 EEO/AA Coming to Otsego in 2018! Call today for more information. 763.746.3400 PROPERTY MAINTENANCE REMINDERS Grass must be regularly mowed to less than 8 inches except as allowed by City Code, and noxious weeds (and dandelions) must be eliminated before plants go to seed. Planting within the boulevard or public right-of-way (generally 16 feet behind the curb or street) is limited to deciduous trees with minimum clearance requirements for vehicles and pedestrians. Note that the City is not responsible for any damage to plants or trees within the boulevard or public right-of-way. For more information, please contact City Hall or visit the Code Enforcement page on ci.otsego.mn.us where you can take a property self-test to help evaluate the condition of your property and neighborhood. www.hennsnoxlaw.com For Business For Individuals & Families Estate Planning • Probate • Family Law • Custody Conservatorships • Personal Injury • Worker’s Comp Business & Corporate Law • Real Estate • Nonprofi t Law Employment Law • Litigation & Dispute Resolution 6900 Wedgwood Road, Suite 200, Maple Grove | 763.560.5700 “Understanding Your Needs,Protecting Your Rights” www.ci.otsego.mn.us | 5 READY FOR SEVERE WEATHER? Minnesota Severe Weather Awareness Week is April 17-21 Two of the most important events during Severe Weather Awareness Week are the annual statewide tornado drills. These drills are scheduled for Thursday, April 20, 2017 at 1:45 p.m. and 6:55 p.m. Outdoor warning sirens and NOAA Weather Radios will sound in a simulated tornado warning. The first drill is intended for institutions and businesses. The evening drill is intended for second-shift workers and families. Take advantage of Severe Weather Awareness Week to review your own and your family’s emergency procedures and prepare for weather-related hazards: • Build an emergency kit. • Purchase a NOAA All Warnings Radio for your home. • Wireless Emergency Alerts are able to sound on all newer-model cell phones during an actual tornado warning. Severe Weather Awareness Week is a great opportunity to learn about these new alerts. This fact sheet can assist you in explaining this new technology. • The City has installed warning sirens throughout the City as an emergency alert only for people outdoors. The sirens are controlled by Wright County and will sounded for severe weather including sustained winds over 54mph or hail larger than three-quarters of an inch in diameter or other emergencies and can be controlled based on specific weather patterns. Residents may hear sirens being sounded in adjacent communities that are not controlled by Wright County. There are also emergency sirens within Otsego related to the Monticello Nuclear Generating Plant, which are also sounded for non-power plant related incidents. Residents should be aware that all of these sirens are interconnected so if one is needed to be set off due to an emergency in Clearwater, these sirens in Otsego will also sound. Sirens are tested by Wright County on the first Wednesday of each month by sounding them at approximately 1:00 p.m. The week of April 17-21 is a great time to make and practice your emergency plan and build an emergency kit. Specific information about these severe weather topics, including factsheets, checklists, data and other resources is available on the Minnesota Department of Public Safety website at https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/hsem/weather-awareness- preparedness/Pages/default.aspx and www.ready.gov.763.575.8086 • VandaCounseling.com Individual Therapy • Couples Therapy Family Therapy • Children’s Services Bilingual Services • Addiction Services Trauma Therapy • Group Therapy Psychological Assessments At Vanda, we believe that everyone deserves a life full of meaning, happiness and the ability to create positive connections with others. We are here to help. Live. Your. Life. 763-274-9945 | KnightHeatingAndAirMN.com 13535 89th Street NE, Otsego Protecting YOU from theElements SERVICES WE OFFER: • Furnace Safety Check, Repair, and Installation • Central Air Tune Up Repair, and Installation • Ductwork • Mitsubishi Mini-Split Systems • Gas Lines • Humidifiers • Thermostats • Electronic Air Cleaners • Garage Heaters DEVELOPMENT PROCESS The City often receives questions about how new developments are initially proposed and reviewed by City staff, the Planning Commission and City Council. The City adopts a Comprehensive Plan to establish community goals and policies for development, including the natural environment, land use, parks and trails, transportation and infrastructure. The Comprehensive Plan is implemented by adoption of a Zoning Ordinance to regulate development including lot requirements, performance standards and designation of districts where various land uses are to be allowed. It is not generally the City’s role to determine or solicit specific land uses for specific locations within the community, such as the number of gas stations, restaurants, retail stores, but to identify a range of uses that will compatibly exist within a given area. Therefore, City staff regularly meets with developers regarding potential projects within the City. Some of these proposals proceed to having a development application be submitted and others not. The discussions address the development regulations applicable to a site, development related fees, approvals required for the proposed development to occur, and the review process for consideration of the development. City staff will also identify potential issues with a proposed development that the developer must address to the City’s satisfaction if they proceed to submit an application. A development application requires submission of detailed plans prepared by professional architects, landscape architects, civil engineers, and surveyors for all site and building improvements as outlined in Section 20-9-6 of the Zoning Ordinance and Section 21-6-2 of the Subdivision Ordinance. The need to prepare the required plans for submission of an application means that there may be activity on a property prior to application for surveying, wetland delineation, soil borings, etc., to establish the existing physical characteristics of the site as a basis for the plans for a proposed development. This activity is an up-front cost for the developer that in no way is presumptive of project approval. Applications for a Zoning Map amendment, conditional use permit, interim use permit, or variance require a public hearing, with notice mailed to all property owners within 350 feet of the site and published in the Elk River Star News in accordance with State Statute, as well as posted on the City website and at Prairie Center. A public hearing is the formal record of information for considering a development application, and the opportunity for the public to learn about a proposed development, ask questions, and make comments; written comments may also be submitted in advance of the public hearing for inclusion in the record. The City Attorney advises that comments regarding a proposed development are only taken at the public hearing, and that the Planning Commission and City Council are not to discuss applications (or potential applications) outside of public meetings to avoid legal challenges by either those for or against a proposed development. The Planning Commission conducts the public hearing and, at its conclusion, makes recommendations to the City Council. City staff will prepare technical memorandums reviewing the proposed development and provide recommendations that are presented to the Planning Commission at the public hearing. The City Council makes the final decision to approve or deny a request based on public testimony from the public hearing, the report and recommendations of City staff and the Planning Commission, and their own opinions. The Zoning Ordinance includes specific criteria for consideration of development applications that are useful to the public in considering their own opinions regarding a proposed development and comments that may be made at the public hearing. Neighborhood opposition is not a legally sufficient basis for the City Council to deny a development application. The criteria also intentionally omit the effects to property values as a basis for land-use decisions, as determining property values is based on many factors. Given the authority that rests with the City Council in establishing the Comprehensive Plan and the range of allowed uses within the various zoning districts of the Zoning Ordinance, future land uses of an undeveloped parcel cannot always be assumed by surrounding owners as a basis for their own property values. We hope this information is helpful in understanding the development review process and land use decision making in Otsego. The Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Ordinance are available for review on the City’s website as are Planning Commission and City Council meeting dates, agendas, and information packets. Residents are also encouraged to contact City staff with any questions or comments you may have regarding land uses and development in Otsego. 6 | 2017 Spring Otsego View It is not generally the City’s role to determine or solicit specific land uses for specific locations within the community, such as the number of gas stations, restaurants, retail stores, but to identify a range of uses that will compatibly exist within a given area. 2017 BUDGET & TAX LEVY OVERVIEW The Otsego City Council held its annual Truth-in-Taxation meeting on December 12, 2016. The meeting is held to provide a forum for input and questions from the public regarding the proposed budget and property tax levy. At this same meeting, the Otsego City Council adopted: 1) 2017 Operating Budgets; 2) Property Tax Levy for Taxes Payable in 2017; and 3) 2017-2026 Capital Improvement Plan. More information on each of these items follows. Operating Budgets: The General fund accounts for all of the day-to-day operations of the City, excluding utilities. The City Council adopted a balanced General fund budget for 2017. The primary funding source is property taxes, which account for 75% of the revenues. Budgeted expenditures for 2017 total $5,040,565, which represents a 3.28% increase from 2016. The most significant factors for the change include: • Wages and benefits increased $127,326 and is representative of 18 full-time and (10-20) part-time employees depending on the season. A compensation and classification study was completed during 2016 to ensure all City wages are within market ranges. • Public Safety contracts, including: Wright County Sheriff and Albertville, Elk River & Rogers Fire Departments accounted for an increase of $77,407. • A $33,513 reduction was made to the General fund Contingency account. • Combining all other items accounted for a decrease of $10,917. The City also prepares 12 additional operating budgets for: Above Standard Street Lighting, Economic Development Revolving, Debt Service (7 funds), Water Utility, Sanitary Sewer Utility and Storm Water Utility funds. More details regarding these budgets can be found on the City website, or by contacting the Finance Director. Property Tax Levy: The City of Otsego continues to see significant population growth, with the 2015 estimate (most recent available) being 15,472, which is a 14% increase since the 2010 U.S. Census. This growth is being driven by continual residential construction, with 947 new construction permits from 2012-2016. The new residential construction along with commercial-industrial developments provides significant growth in the City’s tax base. The City’s tax base, otherwise known as tax capacity increased more than 12% for taxes payable in 2017. City staff approximates that 60% of this growth in tax capacity is from new development, with the remainder being the result of increased property values. The following chart outlines tax capacity by type of property for the past five years and is a fairly accurate depiction of the portion of property taxes paid by each property type. The City Council adopted a total levy in the amount of $5,629,745 for taxes payable in 2017. This equates to a City property tax rate of 37.879, a slight reduction from 2016, and the lowest rate since 2012. What this means is that an increase in the City portion of property taxes will be the effect of your respective properties increase in market value. Otsego’s tax rate is very competitive, and actually below some of the surrounding comparable communities. Below is a chart that outlines on a per capita basis how each property tax levy dollar is used. Capital Improvement Plan: The City of Otsego has developed a ten-year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). The CIP identifies capital projects and equipment purchases as well as the proposed financing source for such expenditures. This plan is reviewed annually to reexamine City priorities and reevaluate cost estimates and funding sources. The full CIP can be viewed on the City website or by contacting the Finance Director. The budgeted capital expenditures for 2017 total $5,374,250, with the significant projects summarized as follows: • $1,029,941: Street Maintenance & Reconstruction • $850,000: New Street Construction • $771,556: Park Development • $399,946: Vehicles & Equipment • $1,970,498: Water Tower Rehabilitation & Water Main Extensions Contact: The full budget document as well as the Truth-in- Taxation presentation is available on the City’s website. Click on the Finance page under the City Departments tab at the top of the page. Always feel free to contact the City Finance Director, Adam Flaherty at (763) 441-4414 with any questions. www.ci.otsego.mn.us | 7 243 23 5 11 10 - 43 250 31 5 15 10 10 42 - 50 100 150 200 250 300 General Revenue Pavement Management Parks & Trails Fleet & Equipment Fire Department Reserve Capital Improvement Plan Debt Service 2017 Per Capita Tax Levy -By Levy Purpose 2016 2017 Community Spotlight DOUG SCHROEDER Ask former Otsego City Council member Doug Schroeder what he loves best about Otsego, and watch his face light up. “So many things. When the kids were growing up, it was the parks and youth sports associations. We’ve got great shops and restaurants, and the people in the community are so nice – not because they have to be, but because they are genuine.” Schroeder and his wife moved to Otsego from Crystal in 1993. They’d looked at other cities in the area, but felt that the homes were too close together. When they got to Otsego, they had one of those moments when they just knew that Otsego would be the perfect place to raise a family. At the time, Otsego had only recently incorporated as a city. Since then, Otsego has experienced tremendous growth, which Schroeder has seen as both a resident and as a member of city council. Appointed to a mid-term vacancy on the council in September of 2010, Schroeder didn’t think Otsego was moving in the wrong direction or that it should go in a different direction. “I just wanted to be a part of it, whatever direction it was going.” The role came naturally to him. As a business representative and vice-president with the Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers Local Union 1 – Minnesota/North Dakota, he is used to wearing different hats, and the training he’s received applies to his work on the city council. “When you walk into a room, whatever you were on the outside, you take that hat off and you have to put on a different hat when you sit down at that table. It’s not about you. It’s about the group and what’s best for the group.” Highlights of Schroeder’s time on the council include improvements to the city’s water treatment facility to keep up with area growth, the establishment of the downtown area with more retail and restaurants, and the addition of the industrial park along 101. Creating a point of interest. Your home! 5600 Queens Ave., Otsego (2 miles north of I-94 on Highway 101)763-497-4407 FocalPointFlooring.com 12550 W. Frontage Road, Burnsville, MN 55337 • 952-808-1412 Flooring • Cabinets • Countertops • Hunter Douglas Blinds • Design Assistance 10% DISCOUNT! IF YOU SHOW THIS AD 8 | 2017 Spring Otsego View “The industrial park was huge, and the timing was good. Before the market crash, we were seeing five hundred to six hundred homes being built a year. Then, nothing. We’ve rebounded pretty quickly,” Schroeder said. Part of that he credits to the city’s commercial growth. Otsego continues to attract new businesses and new residents, and Schroeder easily names many reasons for this. “It’s a young community with a friendly atmosphere. There’s a big emphasis on making sure that every new development has a city park, and the parks and rec department does a great job of maintaining them and trying different things.” Overall, Schroeder says that Otsego is a beautiful place to live, and he’s grateful to have had the opportunity to serve the community as a member of the city council. His most recent term ended in December of 2016, but, he says, that’s not to say that he won’t be back. “I encourage anybody to try it if they’ve got the time,” Schroeder stated. “It opens your eyes to how a city runs. At the end of the day, it’s more than just the taxes you pay. It’s the people that work for your city and the things that they do.” www.ci.otsego.mn.us | 9 Olive to TAN… 19262 Freeport St, Elk River 763-633-8826 450 Jefferson Blvd, Big Lake 763-263-8826 Visit us on Facebook.com Upgrade Tanning at Entry Level Pricing! New Customer Purchase 3 Level-3 Tans $19.95 Expires December 2018. New customers only. One coupon per customer. Must present coupon at time of purchase. Cannot be combined with any other offers. 3 Level-3 Tans expire 7 days after purchase. See store for details. MY LITTLE LIBRARY STORY TIME Coming to a park near you! The Little Library Story Time will be rotating through Otsego Parks throughout the summer. Kids, bring your parents and come and play with friends, read stories, make an art project, play some games, and have a snack! WEDNESDAYS June 14 - August 23 (Not meeting July 5) 10:00-11:00 a.m. at Otsego Prairie Park THURSDAYS 10:00-11:00 a.m. At the following Parks: June 15, Frankfort Park June 29, Beaudry Meadows July 13, School Knoll Park July 27, Zimmer Park August 10, Kittredge Park August 24, Frankfort Park YOUTH GOLF PROGRAM Fun is the number one rule with the parks and recreation youth golf program. Riverwood National golf pros will provide in- depth instruction and supervision in proper swing, chipping, putting rules, and etiquette. TUESDAYS, 4 SESSIONS July 25-August 15, 6:00-7:30 p.m. Riverwood National Golf Course $45 TAEKWONDO PROGRAM AGES 5 & UP Looking to help build your child’s confidence and focus while battling the summertime blues? This Introductory Taekwondo class is the place for you! Our program is designed to build confidence, discipline, and self-defense with real, proven martial arts while having fun in a safe and positive environment. The World Taekwondo Academy of Rogers has been teaching students to expect excellence from themselves in a challenging and supportive way since 1969. Come see why we have been voted the #1 Taekwondo Program in the country! THURSDAYS, 4 SESSIONS August 3-August 24, 10:00- 10:45 a.m., World Taekwondo Academy of Rogers 20965 S. Diamond Lake Rd. Suite 105 $40 TINY T-BALL AGES 3-4 WITH PARENTS Tiny T-Ball is a fun league where parents will be right next to their child as they experience one of their first sporting experiences. Kids will learn how much fun playing sports can be while refining their skills in hand-eye coordination, running, and sportsmanship. Kids will get a t-shirt and a hat. A parent or adult must be with your child on the field at all times and for safety, no other children are allowed on the field during practice or games. TUESDAYS June 6-July 18 (No games July 4), Otsego Prairie Park SESSION 1 5:00-5:45 p.m. | SESSION 2 6:00-6:45 p.m. $45 | Registration Deadline May 23 10 | Registration is Required for most programs, please visit otsegorecdesk.com or call 763.235.3148. 2017 SPRING & SUMMER PROGRAMS Otsego Parks & Recreation, through its employees and volunteers, is committed to preserving heritage while providing quality and innovative services, parks, and programs to residents and visitors. Registration is available online or call 763.235.3148. T-BALL AGES 5-6 T-Ball is an entry-level league to introduce young players to baseball. Players will develop their skills while focusing on the basic fundamentals of throwing, fielding and hitting. Team sizes are small at about 8-10 players per team. Players all hit from an adjustable batting tee. All participants will receive a t-shirt and hat. TUESDAYS June 6 -July 18 (No games July 4) 7:00- 8:00 p.m., Otsego Prairie Park $45 | Registration Deadline is May 23 Save $10 by signing up for both T-ball and Flag Football programs today, your reduced fee for both classes will be $80. FLAG FOOTBALL K-FIRST GRADE & SECOND-THIRD GRADE Otsego Parks and Recreation Flag Football League is for girls and boys ages kindergarten to third grade. This program provides players an opportunity to engage in non-contact continuous action while learning lessons in teamwork. Players learn skills that help them succeed on and off the field. Kids will get a jersey. TUESDAYS August 1 – September 5, 6:00-7:00 p.m., Otsego Prairie Park $45 | Registration Deadline July 18 CHEER & POM CAMP AGES 4-6 Your child will learn basic cheer and Pom routines. This camp promotes physical fitness, self-confidence, and teamwork in a safe and fun environment. The highlights of this camp will be when your child performs cheer routines at the Flag Football games.(Prairie Park). Each child will receive their own pom-poms and a t-shirt. TUESDAY August 1-September 5, 6:00-7:00 p.m., Otsego Prairie Center $35 | Registration Deadline July 18 SOAR THEATER SPONSORED BY The St. Michael, Otsego, Albertville, Rogers (SOAR) Regional Arts Group along with the Teen Advisory Group (TAG) will be hosting a night of theater in the Park. The night will begin with storytelling, games and a costume contest followed by the performance. CURIOUS GEORGE: THE GOLDEN MEATBALL Tuesday, July 25, Otsego Prairie Park, 6:30 P.M. Games, Storytelling and Costume Contest, 7:00 P.M. Performance www.ci.otsego.mn.us | 11 Overnight Boarding 1st dog $32/day 2nd dog $26/day 3rd dog $15/day Overnight Boarding 1st dog $32/day 2nd dog $26/day 3rd dog $15/day Grooming Self Bath $15 Staff Bath $25 Nail Trim $7 Grooming Self Bath $15 Staff Bath $25 Nail Trim $7 Doggie Day Care 1/2 day (1-6 hrs) $15/day Full day (6-12 hrs) $23/day Doggie Day Care 1/2 day (1-6 hrs) $15/day Full day (6-12 hrs) $23/day Open from 7am to 7pm, 7 days a week. Call 763.441.8102 or visit RinTinInnKennel.com Ask about our Doggie Day Care Packages! Ask about our Doggie Day Care Packages! Our Area’s Preferred Eye Care Specialists We Know Eyes! With over 60 years’ combined experience, we have seen it all so that you can see it all! Let Gregory Optical be your first stop for vision. ENTERTAINMENT IN THE PARK TUESDAYS 10:00 A.M. AT PRAIRIE PARK SHELTER, FREE JUNE 13 | Raptor Center: Program includes four raptors including a bald eagle JUNE 20 | Tricia and The Toonies: Family Fun Show JUNE 27 | Circus Manduhai: Mongolian Circus Act JULY 11 | Brodini Family: Comedy & Magic Show JULY 18 | Jack & Kitty: Award winning Duo in kids music JULY 25 | Schiffelly Puppets: Entertaining puppet show AUGUST 1 | Brian Richards Magic Show: Fun and interactive AUGUST 8 | Zoo Mobile: See a variety of different animals AUGUST 15 | Kiddance: Interactive DJ Party AUGUST 22 | Alphabits: Children’s Interactive Music SOCCER CAMP AGES 4-6 This program is designed to teach kids the fundamentals of soccer in a fun, supportive environment. Skills that will be worked on are: dribbling, shooting, passing, and team work. Participants will also have chance to scrimmage. MONDAYS & WEDNESDAYS 9:00-9:45 a.m., Otsego Prairie Park SESSION 1: June 19 - July 19 (No Class the week of July 4) SESSION 2: July 24-August 16 $30 MULTI-SPORT CAMP AGES 4-6 This camp gives an introduction to girls and boys to the fun and excitement of sports. There is no pressure, just lots of fun! Sports that will be introduced will be soccer, flag football and basketball. MONDAYS & WEDNESDAYS 10:00-10:45 a.m., Otsego Prairie Park, SESSION 1: June 19-July 19. (No Class the week of July 4) SESSION 2: July 24-August 16 $30 ARCHERY CLASS AGES 8-16 Young Archers come out and learn or refine your archery skills this summer. Otsego Parks & Rec and Archery Country of Rogers are working together to provide a quality archery program. Kids will learn archery with the instruction of the professional staff of Archery Country. THURSDAYS June 15-July 13 (Not meeting on July 6), at Archery Country BEGINNER CLASS: 10:00-11:00 a.m. INTERMEDIATE: 11:15-12:15 p.m. $55 OTSEGO MOVIE NIGHT SPONSORED BY Bring the family out and enjoy an outdoor movie on our 16’ movie screen. All the movies are free and begin around sunset. In case of inclement weather, movies will move inside to Prairie Center. Please call the Rec Info line at 763-235-3148 the day of the movie. Remember to bring chairs, blankets and snacks. Sponsored by: Bank of Elk River AUGUST 3: 4 Christmases (PG 13), Otsego Regional Park AUGUST 23: Finding Dory (PG), Northwood Park,1600 72 St NE DATE NIGHT COUPLES CANOE TRIP Couples will park at the Otsego County Park and be bussed to a landing on the Mississippi River. Canoes, paddles and life jackets are also included so sit back and enjoy an evening on the river. At the completion of the canoe trip, a picnic dinner will be served in the park. After dinner, plan on staying and watching the movie “4 Christmases” PG13 on our large outdoor movie screen. You will have VIP seating (please bring your own chairs or blankets) THURSDAY, AUGUST 3 5:30 p.m., Otsego Regional Park, 15186 96th Street NE $80 PER COUPLE INTRODUCTION TO TUMBLING AGE 2 In this toddler-and-me class, your child will be introduced to gymnastics and will develop coordination by learning balance, flexibility, rhythm and mat exercises. Students should wear leotards or shorts, sweatpants, and t-shirts. Parents are expected to participate with their child. THURSDAYS, 6 SESSIONS March 23-May 4 (Not Meeting April 13), 5:30- 6:00 p.m. July 13-August 17, 9:00 -9:30 a.m. July 13-August 17, 5:30 -6:00 p.m. $35 TUMBLING BASICS AGES 3-4 In this class, children will learn the basic skill of gymnastics in a safe environment by learning a variety of mat exercise, low balance beam, vault and tumbling exercises. Students should wear leotards or shorts, sweatpants and t-shirts. Please tie back long hair. THURSDAYS, 6 SESSIONS March 23-May 4, (Not Meeting April 13), 6:00-6:40 p.m. July 13-August 17, 9:30 -10:10 a.m. July 13-August 17, 6:00 -6:40 p.m. $35 12 | Registration is Required for most programs, please visit otsegorecdesk.com or call 763.235.3148. SPONSORED BY ADULT FITNESS CLASSES ALL CLASSES HELD AT PRAIRIE CENTER FREE NIGHTS OF FITNESS MARCH 29 & JUNE 7 6:00-6:30 p.m. Bootcamp 6:30-7:00 p.m. Zumba 7:00-7:30 p.m. Yoga Sculpt 7:30-8:00 p.m. Turbo Kick ZUMBA Ditch the workout and join the party. Come dance your way to a firmer, better body with motivating music and fun dance moves. It is a “feel happy” workout and you’ll love the results. WEDNESDAYS April 12-May 31, 6:15-7:00 p.m. $28 YOGA SCULPT FUSION A fun and challenging class that fuses Vinyasa yoga, strength training and flexibility. This unique workout incorporates hand weights and is designed to tone and shape your body. Come burn some extra calories, build healthy bone density, and leave feeling strong, refreshed and rejuvenated. This is an energetic upbeat class. (Please bring your own 3-5 pound dumbbells). WEDNESDAYS April 12-May 31, 7:00-7:45pm, $28 TURBO KICK LIVE Turbo Kick Live combines traditional kickboxing moves with high-intensity interval training (HIIT) for an unbelievable calorie burn. From the amped-up music, to the incredible energy, you’ll leave every class ready to conquer anything. SUNDAYS March 19 - May 7, 7:00pm - 7:45 p.m. (not meeting April 16) $25 NEW BUDDY BOOT CAMP What’s better than transforming your body? Doing it with a friend. Come experience a fun and challenging new workout. This class is upbeat and catered to all fitness levels. Let’s focus on losing body fat, gaining muscle and improving confidence together. SATURDAYS April 15 - May 6, 7:45-8:15 a.m. $20 EACH OR $30 FOR TWO (must register together) Park Nicollet Clinic—Rogers 13688 Rogers Drive Internal Medicine and Pediatrics appointments: 952-977-0300 parknicollet.com/rogers Same-day appointments available. www.ci.otsego.mn.us | 13 ENJOY SPRING–GET OUT AND RIDE! $10 OFF Spring Bike Tune-up RamseyBicycles.com 6825 Highway 10, Ramsey 763.323.6666 $5 OFF a $25 Parts & Accessories Purchase TENNIS LESSONS With instruction for beginners on strokes, strategy, rules, terms, and equipment, participants will be introduced to tennis by qualified and experienced local instructors. All classes will be held at School Knoll Park Tennis Courts WEDNESDAYS June 14, 21, 28, July 12, 19, 26 Ages 5-8 (9:00-10:00 a.m.) Ages 9-12 (10:00-11:00 a.m.) $39 JUMP JAMBOREE Jump Jamboree is all about jumping and having fun. You won’t want to miss out on the fun! Jump City will be setting up oodles of bouncies in Prairie Park for a summer evening of unlimited jumping. For inclement weather, please check website. WEDNESDAYS June 21 & August 9, 5-8 p.m., Otsego Prairie Park $10 online registration or $13 at the event (online registration closes the day before event) SPRING FLING DANCE Come out and have a blast at our “Spring Fling Dance” for young adults with disabilities. Your PCA or chaperone is also welcome to join you! Dance will be from 7-9pm. Refreshments will be for sale at the event. A photo prop area will also be available...so cameras are welcome! Reserve your spot or buy your tickets at the door. FRIDAY MARCH 31, 7-9 p.m., Prairie Center, $5 OTSEGO TOUCH-A-TRUCK A fun-filled, free family event where kids of all ages get the chance to touch, explore and climb on just about any vehicle they can imagine. From sheriff’s squads and fire trucks to ambulances and snowplows. The highlight of the evening will be a helicopter visit. There will be other fun activities for the whole family to enjoy. Concessions will be available. Special Thanks to Elk River Fire Department; Albertville Fire Department; and Wright County Sheriff TUESDAY JUNE 6, 6:00-8:30 p.m., Otsego Prairie Park, FREE NORTHWOOD PARK GRAND OPENING The City of Otsego is very proud to be hosting a grand opening for Northwood Park. There will be a meet and greet with City Council members and Commissioners, games, and bouncies. Come on over to Otsego’s newest park, meet neighbors and have a whole lot of fun! THURSDAY MAY 18, 6:00-7:30 p.m., 1600 72nd St. NE, FREE ADVENTURE CAMPS AGES 6-10 At our camps, kids will have tons of fun and many adventures. Activities include sports, games, crafts, and many themed outdoor activities. Guaranteed to make friends, get wet and dirty! $25 each Camp or sign up for all 4 camps $90 WARRIOR BOOT CAMP Your child will participate in adventurous games, activities and an awesome and challenging obstacle course. We will focus on fitness and having fun This boot camp is for kids of all fitness levels. Expect to get wet! TUESDAY JUNE 20, 9:00 a.m.-Noon, Prairie Center SUPERHEROES CAMP Calling all superheroes! Join us and unleash your superpower strength! TUESDAY JULY 11, 9:00 a.m.-Noon, Prairie Center DETECTIVE CAMP Calling all spies! Your mission, if you choose to accept, is to help solve the mystery at Otsego Prairie Park. TUESDAY AUGUST 1, 9:00 a.m.-Noon, Prairie Center WET & WILD Join us for an awesome watery day of fun! TUESDAYS AUGUST 15, 9:00 a.m.-Noon, Prairie Center NEW! PAWS IN THE PARK Introducing our newest program, Otsego Parks and Rec will be hosting community events for our four-legged friends and their owners throughout the year. HOPPIN’ HOUNDS EGG HUNT FOR DOGS Saturday April 8, Prairie Park Dog Park, 8899 Nashua Ave NE 12:30 P.M. Egg Hunt, 1:00-2:00 P.M. Photos with the Easter Bunny Mark your calendars for other upcoming Paws in the Park programs: Howlin’ Halloween in October, Santa Paws in December. Please visit our website for more info. EASTER EGG HUNT Kids are invited to hunt for hidden Easter Eggs as well as visit with the Easter Bunny. A bike giveaway, face painting, stickers and tattoos are also planned. SATURDAY APRIL 8, 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., Prairie Center, FREE! WEDNESDAYS August 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Ages 5-8 (9:00-10:00 a.m.) Ages 9-12 (10:00-11:00 a.m.) $29 14 | Registration is Required for most programs, please visit otsegorecdesk.com or call 763.235.3148. SPRING CRAFT & MERCHANT SHOW Save the date for a fun day of shopping for unique gifts you can’t find in stores, for you or for someone else. Everything from health and fitness to purses and more! Support local artisans, crafters and small business owners. SATURDAY APRIL 29, 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m., Prairie Center, FREE CRUSIN’ THE CITY Join the Otsego Staff and Commissioners on a tour of Otsego. Learn the history, tour the parks and learn about all the amenities that the City has to offer. TUESDAY MAY 16, Bus leaves at 5:30pm, Prairie Center, $5 ELK RIVER/OTSEGO SAFETY CAMP AGES COMPLETED KINDERGARTEN, 1, 2 & 3 GRADES Learn how to stay safe and keep your cool in all types of situations and environments. Safety Camp includes interactive games, hands-on experiences, and sessions taught by a variety of safety experts. Campers will receive lunch, snacks, a t-shirt, bike helmet and a goodie bag. Join us for a great day of safety and fun. There will be a graduation ceremony at 3:45 p.m. – parents are encouraged to attend! WEDNESDAY JUNE 21 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. $20 New this year, Safety Camp will be held at the Elk River Fire Department (13073 Orono Pkwy NW). Campers will be bused, leaving Prairie Center at 7:30 a.m. and return at 4:30 p.m. OTSEGO NATIONAL NIGHT OUT National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make our neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live. Together, we are making that happen. National Night Out enhances the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community and provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances. If you are interested in hosting a neighborhood party and would like the fire department and Wright County Sheriff to visit, please visit our website to register. TUESDAY AUGUST 1 ACTIVITIES FOR 55+ Prairie Center will be home to the Otsego 55 and Over Activity Center. We will be posting a calendar of events which will includes activities, speakers, and exercise classes. Please visit our website and click on the Adults 55+ button for more information. MONDAY & WEDNESDAY, 10:00-2:00pm, Otsego Prairie Center www.ci.otsego.mn.us | 15 Serving the Northwest Communities for More Than Two Decades Dreaming of a Beautiful Lawn? Call Jeremy’s Lawn Service Today! Mowing | Trimming | Weed Control | Fertilizing | Shrub Trimming Ground Maintenance | Mosquito Control | Snow Removal 612.685.0392 JeremysLawnService.com Residential | Townhome | Commercial Maintenance Best Lawn Care Service! $50 OFFTUNE-UP OR REPAIR SAVE MORE When You Sign a Planned Service Agreement! SAVE Up To $1,375! Available Rebates Gas Utility: Up to $425 Electric Utility: Up to $550 Coupon: Up to $400 Call for Details! Not valid with other offers. Must present coupon at time of service. Not applicable toward diagnostic charges. Exp. 5/31/17. OTNLSP2017 FURNACES • AIR CONDITIONERS • WATER HEATERS • IN-FLOOR HEATING ZONING • INDOOR AIR QUALITY • DUCT SEALING • GEOTHERMAL SPECIALISTS MN Lic# PC691106 763.428.3677 heatcool2.com Specific models only. Call for details. Exp. 5/31/17. OTNLSP2017 UP TO $400 OFF Furnace & AC Installation BUILDING PERMITS Residents planning improvement projects should check with the Department of Building Safety about building permit requirements. The Department of Building Safety works with residents and business owners to ensure structure safety in accordance with Minnesota Building and Fire Codes, which requires building permits for roofing, siding, decks, and sheds. Permits are also required by the City for fences and swimming pools. For more information or to obtain a building permit, please call the Department of Building Safety at 763.441.2593. ASSESSING UPDATE The Wright County Assessor’s Office will be inspecting properties in 2017 within a 2 mile strip east of Cty. Rd. 19 and south of Cty. Rd. 39, except Pleasant Creek townhomes, as they were done last year. They will evaluate the estimated market value and tax classification of each property as required by Minnesota State Statutes. The Assessors’ determination of market value represents a reasonable estimate of what your property may sell for based on market conditions and information relating to your specific property. The estimated market value is the basis for calculating property taxes. The appraisers will carry personal and county identification and will usually be driving a county vehicle. Additionally, they will very often be wearing Wright County logo shirts. More information is available about the property assessment process on the Assessors page at the Wright County website: www.co.wright.mn.us or by calling 763.682.7367. Member FDIC NMLS #495076 on April 8th and get a FREE PHOTO with the Easter Bunny! Watch for us at the OTSEGO EGG HUNT Otsego Office | 15800 88th Street NE 763-441-7700 www.thebankofelkriver.com | Member FDIC Let’s talk. The Bank of Elk River is a proud partner of The City of Otsego bringing you free Entertainment in the Park and free Movies in the Park this summer! Watch for our new, sponsored program, SOAR Theater, coming this July. Home Care • Hospice • Private Pay Christian Mission † Community Based † Continuity of Care HomeCare • Skilled Nursing • Physical erapy • Occupational erapy • Speech erapy • Home Health Aides • Chronic Disease Management Hospice • Whole Team Approach • Music erapy • Massage erapy • We Honor Veterans Private Pay • Medication set-up • Home Health Aides (personal care, bathing, dressing) • Homemaking services (cleaning, cooking, errands) Bualo - 763-682-2726 Elk River - 763-241-0654 Cambridge - 763-552-2160 EASTER EGG HUNT The annual Easter Egg Hunt is planned for Saturday, April 8 from 11 AM to 1 PM at Prairie Park, 8899 Nashua Avenue (behind Prairie Center). This free event is sponsored by the Otsego Parks and Recreation Commission. Kids are invited to hunt for hidden Easter Eggs (replenished throughout the event) as well as visit with the Easter Bunny. A bike giveaway, face painting, stickers and tattoos are also planned. For more information, visit the City’s website or call City Hall. 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 ECRWSS POSTAL CUSTOMER