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Blaine March/April 2015 March/April 2015 The City Council approved the formation of the community center task force in May 2014 to explore if citizens have an interest in adding indoor recreational facilities in the City. On January 22, the Blaine City Council authorized the hiring of a consultant for $22,000 to conduct a citizen survey for indoor community facility amenities as part of a Community Center. The Community Center Task began meeting in June 2014. The Community Center Task Force is comprised of community residents from youth associations, the Metro North Chamber, Blaine Senior Advisory Council, Blaine Park Board, local school districts and residents at large. The group meets monthly at City Hall and will continue its work until a possible November 2016 citizen referendum. This past summer the task force toured community centers in the north metro communities of Maple Grove, Andover and Shoreview. More tours will take place in the coming months as amenities and areas of need are identified through the survey process. “This as much as anything is a public engagement process, to get people talking,” said Todd Olson, task force chairperson. Olson said the Community Center Task Force will work with the survey consultant over the next few months to compile a list of questions. When the City Council set up the task force last year, they said the project should be community driven and the city’s involvement limited to paying for consultants and having a City staff member attend meetings. Last fall the council authorized up to $115,000 for two surveys and a consultant. The projected cost of each survey was $15,000 to $20,000, and consultant could be $75,000. The Community Center Task Force will now begin the process of creating a request for proposal for an overall project consultant with the potential to have them in place in the coming months. The overall project consultant will lead the task force in analyzing survey results, develop a conceptual plan, identify potential sites, formalize partnerships, develop construction costs, assist in projecting operating costs as well as long term revenue projections. The overall project consultant would require council approval and would also facilitate public meetings as possible amenities are identified by the work of the task force and the survey process. All task force meetings are open to the public and are normally conducted the first Monday of the month at City Hall. For more information, contact the Manager’s Office at 763-785-6123 . 6th Annual Green Expo will be held April 25 at the NSC North Metro Region Leads MN to a More Sustainable Future The 6th annual Green Expo is bigger and better than ever this year. After the success of last year’s partnership, the City of Coon Rapids, the City of Blaine, and the National Sports Center (NSC) have decided to team up again to produce an even larger event. The expo will take advantage of the NSC’s expansive exhibition space in order to showcase the best ideas, products and services in sustainable living that will save Minnesotans money and our precious natural resources. Admission to this great event is free and open to the public. April 25, 2015 9 am to 2 pm Schwan Center, NSC The Green Expo is a community event designed to give the public a better understanding of what “sustainability” really means. By bringing together local businesses, environmental experts and representatives who work in areas of conservation, this event strives to educate the public on the many environmental topics that affect our everyday lives. Whether a community member is passionate about growing groundwater concerns, reducing the amount of waste they produce, or purchasing local foods, the Green Expo is the right venue to continue educating and empowering themselves. cont’d on Page 4 CityConnect CityConnect Bicycle Recycling Returns April 19 Blaine holds its monthly recycling drop-off day on the third Saturday of each month, from 10 am until 2 pm at Aquatore Park. See page 7 for more information about Blaine’s monthly recycling drop-off day. Correction to 2015 Recycling Calendar The 2015 recycling calendar that was recently sent out by Advanced Disposal contained two errors. Please note that service WILL NOT be delayed by one day on the Friday before Independence Day, which is on Saturday, July 4. There is NO delay that week. Also, ONLY Friday service will be delayed for Christmas Day, on Friday, December 25. Thursday, December 24, will be a normal collection day.

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Page 1: Blaine CityConnect - 2015 Mar/Apr

BlaineMarch/April 2015March/April 2015

The City Council approved the formation of the community center task force in May 2014 to explore if citizens have an interest in adding indoor recreational facilities in the City. On January 22, the Blaine City Council authorized the hiring of a consultant for $22,000 to conduct a citizen survey for indoor community facility amenities as part of a Community Center. The Community Center Task began meeting in June 2014.

The Community Center Task Force is comprised of community residents from youth associations, the Metro North Chamber, Blaine Senior Advisory Council, Blaine Park Board, local school districts and residents at large. The group meets monthly at City Hall and will continue its work until a possible November 2016 citizen referendum.

This past summer the task force toured community centers in the north metro communities of Maple Grove, Andover and Shoreview. More tours will take place in the coming months as amenities and areas of need are identified through the survey process.

“This as much as anything is a public engagement process, to get people talking,” said Todd Olson, task force chairperson. Olson said the Community Center Task Force will work with the survey consultant over the next few months to compile a list of questions.

When the City Council set up the task force last year, they said the project should be community driven and the city’s involvement limited to paying for consultants and having a City staff member attend meetings. Last fall the council authorized up to $115,000 for two surveys and a consultant. The projected cost of each survey was $15,000 to $20,000, and consultant could be $75,000. The Community Center Task Force will now begin the process of creating a request for proposal for an overall project consultant with the potential to have them in place in the coming months.

The overall project consultant will lead the task force in analyzing survey results, develop a conceptual plan, identify potential sites, formalize partnerships, develop construction costs, assist in projecting operating costs as well as long term revenue projections. The overall project consultant would require council approval and would also facilitate public meetings as possible amenities are identified by the work of the task force and the survey process.

All task force meetings are open to the public and are normally conducted the first Monday of the month at City Hall. For more information, contact the Manager’s Office at 763-785-6123 .

6th Annual Green Expo will be held April 25 at the NSCNorth Metro Region Leads MN to a More Sustainable FutureThe 6th annual Green Expo is bigger and better than ever this year. After the success of last year’s partnership, the City of Coon Rapids, the City of Blaine, and the National Sports Center (NSC) have decided to team up again to produce an even larger event. The expo will take advantage of the NSC’s expansive exhibition space in order to showcase the best ideas, products and services in sustainable living that will save Minnesotans money and our precious natural resources. Admission to this great event is free and open to the public.

April 25, 20159 am to 2 pm

Schwan Center, NSCThe Green Expo is a community event designed to give the public a better understanding of what “sustainability” really means. By bringing together local businesses, environmental experts and representatives who work in areas of conservation, this event strives to educate the public on the many environmental topics that affect our everyday lives.Whether a community member is passionate about growing groundwater concerns, reducing the amount of waste they produce, or purchasing local foods, the Green Expo is the right venue to continue educating and empowering themselves.

cont’d on Page 4

CityConnectCityConnect

Bicycle Recycling Returns April 19Blaine holds its monthly recycling drop-off day on the third Saturday of each month, from 10 am until 2 pm at Aquatore Park.

See page 7 for more information about Blaine’s monthly recycling drop-off day.

Correction to 2015 Recycling CalendarThe 2015 recycling calendar that was recently sent out by Advanced Disposal contained two errors. Please note that service WILL NOT be delayed by one day on the Friday before Independence Day, which is on Saturday, July 4. There is NO delay that week. Also, ONLY Friday service will be delayed for Christmas Day, on Friday, December 25. Thursday, December 24, will be a normal collection day.

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Blaine City Hall10801 Town Square Drive

Blaine, MN 55449

763-784-6700763-785-6156 (fax)

CITY COUNCILMAYORTom Ryan

12147 Radisson Road NEBlaine, MN [email protected]

WARD 1Wes Hovland

8650 Van Buren Street NEBlaine, MN [email protected]

Dick Swanson8702 Hastings CircleBlaine, MN [email protected]

WARD 2Dave Clark

10833 Fillmore Street NEBlaine, MN [email protected]

Mike Bourke83 103rd Avenue NEBlaine, MN [email protected]

WARD 3Jason King

424 - 122nd Avenue NEBlaine, MN [email protected]

Russ Herbst12875 Lever Street NEBlaine, MN [email protected]

CITY MANAGERClark Arneson

[email protected]

Police and Fire ..................................................... 911Police (non-emergency) ......................... 763-785-6168Fire (non-emergency) ............................. 763-786-4436Anoka County Dispatch .......................... 763-427-1212Advanced Disposal ................................ 763-786-7233Building Inspections .............................. 763-785-6170Cable Channel 15 ................................. 763-780-8241City Cable Channel 16 .......................... 763-785-6192City Clerk ............................................ 763-785-6124City Manager ........................................ 763-785-6120Community Standards ........................... 763-785-6187Crime Prevention .................................. 763-785-6113Economic Development ......................... 763-785-6180Engineering .......................................... 763-785-6172Fire Inspections ................................... 763-785-6187Forestry .............................................. 763-717-2660Housing Services ................................. 763-785-6146Human Resources ................................ 763-785-6109Job Line .............................................. 763-717-2679Newsletter .......................................... 763-785-6192Operator .............................................. 763-784-6700Parks and Recreation ........................... 763-785-6164Planning & Zoning ................................ 763-785-6180Public Works ........................................ 763-785-6165Recycling & Solid Waste ....................... 763-785-6192Senior Citizens Center .......................... 763-786-9375 Sewer Backup ...................................... 763-785-6165Streets ............................................... 763-785-6165Stormwater .......................................... 763-785-6188Utility Billing ........................................ 763-785-6141Water & Sewer System ......................... 763-785-6165Web..................................................... 763-717-2638

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CityConnect is published bimonthly by the City of Blaine and distributed to all residents and businesses. Past copies of the city newsletter are available at:WWW.CI.BLAINE.MN.US/GO/NEWSLETTER Feedback can be directed to:NEWSLETTER @ CI .BLAINE.MN.US

All city legal notices are published in the city’s official newspaper, the Blaine/Spring Lake Park Life.

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WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/BLAINE.MN WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/BLAINEBIZMN WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/BLAINEPARKSMN

WWW.CI.BLAINE.MN.US/GO/EMAILUPDATES

WWW.TWITTER.COM/BLAINEMINNESOTA WWW.TWITTER.COM/BLAINEBIZMN WWW.TWITTER.COM/BLAINEPARKSMN

WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/ CITYOFBLAINE

WWW.LINKEDIN.COM/COMPANY/ CITY-OF-BLAINE-MINNESOTA

WWW.FLICKR.COM/PHOTOS/CITYOFBLAINE/

WWW.PINTEREST.COM/BLAINEMINNESOTA/

PLUS.GOOGLE.COM, THEN SEARCH BLAINE MINNESOTA

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City Council*Mar. 5 | Mar. 19 | Apr. 2 | Apr. 16 7:30 pm | City Hall Council Chambers

City Council WorkshopsMar. 5 | Mar. 12 | Mar. 19 Apr. 2 | Apr. 9 | Apr. 166:30 pm | City Hall Cloverleaf Room

Planning Commission*Mar. 10 | Apr. 147 pm | City Hall Council Chambers

Park Board*Mar. 24 | Apr. 287 pm | City Hall Council Chambers

Nat’l Resource Conservation Board Mar. 17 | Apr. 217 pm | City Hall Cloverleaf Farm Room

Arts CouncilMar. 10 | Apr. 145:30 pm | City Hall Lunch Room

Historical Society Mar. 10 | Apr. 146:30 pm | City Hall Sanctuary Room

*Meetings can be seen live on cable channel 16.

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Expect great speakers and vendors knowledgeable about a variety of topics applicable to the older adult population. Keynote speaker: Marcus Kubey-awarded the purple heart, will talk about his experiences while deployed in Iraq, and touch on the topic “choice during tough times”.

Space is limited. Registration forms available at the Mary Ann Young Senior Center

9150 Central Avenue NE, Blaine, MN 55434For additional information contact Shelley at 763-786-9375

or Connie at 763-767-4003 .

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You Need More Than a Leash to Walk Your DogUnder City ordinance pet owners are required to clean up after their dogs when taking them for a walk. Dog owners must carry a plastic bag or some other means of picking up after their dog whenever they are off their own property. The ordinance was enacted in response to multiple complaints regarding the amount of feces accumulating within our park systems and along our walkways. Please be a courteous pet owner and clean up after your pet.

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Don’t Let Your Dogs Run Loose!As spring approaches, and more people are out using Blaine’s sidewalks, trails, and parks, we would like to remind residents that all dogs must be kept under restraint by their owners at all times. The term “restraint” means: Controlled by a leash or by a competent person and immediately obedient to that person’s commands, or within a vehicle being driven or parked on streets or within the property limits of its owner restricted by a secure “tether” which limits the dog’s movement on the property, or within a secure enclosure on the property of the owner which confines the dog. An unattended dog or other domestic animal on the property of another, without the consent of such property owner, is “at large” and not under “restraint”, even if it is on a leash. Also, immediately obedient means right beside or within a couple of feet of the competent person, not down the block, out in the woods, or running in the park.Dogs over six months of age must have a City dog license. If the City picks up an “at large” licensed dog, we will return it to the owner the first time. Any time after that, the “at large” dog will be taken to the dog pound where the owner will have to pay to get it back. All unlicensed “at large” dogs that are picked up will be taken to the dog pound.

For more information onanimal ordinances in Blaine

or on how to get a dog license,please contact the Blaine Police

Department at 763-785-6168.

City of BlaineOpen HouseTuesday, April 213:30 – 8:00 pm

Get to know your City, services, and staff at the City of Blaine’s Open House on April 21. Explore a fire truck, police car, snow plow, maintenance trucks and more; tour the police department; sit in the Mayor’s chair and be on TV; put on fire fighter, police, and city worker uniforms and take a selfie; browse City departments and find out information: on where your tax dollars go, the life of an election ballot, recycling information, safety displays, home improvement permits, and more! Find out how you can get involved at the Community Involvement Expo. Check out Blaine’s Past, Present, and Future Art Show.

Schedule of Events3:30–6:45 pm

Open House Community Involvement Expo3:30–6:30 pm

Vehicle Displays and Concessions6:30 pm

Essay Contest Awards in the Council Chambers

7:00 pmConcert with Route 3 in the Atrium

BlaineEvents.com/50

Blaine Safety Services Division wants to ensure the safety of bicyclists in the community. In April and May, we will be distributing AND PROPERLY FITTING helmets.Bike helmets will be sold, while supplies last, for $10 each. Helmets are available in a variety of colors and sizes ranging from toddler to adult. All Bell® helmets comply with U.S. CPSC Safety Standards. Bring the whole family; we will fit adults also. Safety Services Specialists will also fit helmets you already own at no charge. No appointments necessary. This event is open to everyone. Cash or check only.

For more information, please call Crime Prevention Specialist Andrea

Hunt, 763-785-6113 , or [email protected] .

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Open House Annouced for Trails and Nature Center ProjectThe City of Blaine is pleased to announce a public open house to introduce the construction phase for the Blaine Wetland Sanctuary. Scheduled for Thursday, March 26, 2015 from 5:00PM to 7:30PM in the city hall atrium, residents will have the opportunity to view designs of the proposed project, its components and phases, and provide input on the details. A formal presentation will begin at 6:45PM.

The concept design was approved in July 2014 by the Blaine City Council. In the concept phase, recommendations were made for trails and other amenities for the large open space north of 109th Ave. and west of Lexington Ave. Under the direction of the Natural Resources Conservation Board, this 500 acre property is one of a dozen other open spaces in Blaine being managed by the 2008 Open Space Management Plan, controlling invasive trees and plants, promoting the growth of plants native to this area, and restoring pre-development conditions.

In the construction phase of the project, trail heads, parking areas, trails, bird watching blinds, overlooks and other features to enhance the enjoyment of the unique ecosystem of this area will be built over the next five to seven years. While this area mainly consists of wetlands there are also many upland areas and in total they create habitat for a wide variety of birds, mammals, amphibians and a diverse community of native plant species. One of the end goals of this project is to build a nature center that will provide interpretive information as well as educational opportunities for families, school groups and others. The proposed location for the center is on Lexington Ave. just west of the new athletic complex that will be completed later this year.

Portions of the open space area have been identified for restoration to improve and preserve the plant quality and diversity, and to protect endangered plant species. One project has been underway since 2009 and will be completed in 2015. A second project was approved at the same time as the new improvement project. This restoration project should get started in late 2015 with a completion date of 2020-2021.

After a rigorous review process, the project proposal from Stantec, a consulting firm from Roseville, MN, was recommended to the City Council and approved at the December 4, 2014 council meeting. Stantec has a wealth of experience in designing and constructing open space amenities and working with the public to incorporate features to meet a variety of needs.

Look on the City of Blaine website at WWW.CI.BLAINE.MN.US for project updates. For additional information you can call 763-785-6188.

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Special Board of Review Convenes April 20Minnesota law requires that all property be appraised at “estimated market value” for tax purposes. The market value represents a reasonable estimate of what your property may sell for based on current market conditions and information relating to your property.Although your local Special Board of Review (also referred to as the Local Board of Appeal and Equalization) cannot adjust property taxes or unrelated complaints, it can address problems concerning estimated market value or property classifications, which cannot be resolved by the County Assessor’s Office. Steps that must be followed in the appeals process:1. If you believe the estimated market

value and/or classification of your property has been determined incorrectly, you have the right to make an appeal. The first step in the appeals process is to direct inquiries concerning valuation or property classification to the Anoka County Assessor’s office.

Many times questions and concerns can be addressed

informally, prior to the local Board meeting. Contact the

Anoka County Assessor’s Officeat 763- 323-5400.

2. If you still believe your valuation or classification is incorrect, or you are not satisfied with the resolution offered by the assessor’s office, you may bring your case to the local Special Board of Review.You may appear in person, by letter or be represented by an authorized agent. It is required that you first attend the local Special Board of Review prior to attending the County Board of Appeal.

The local Board of Review convenes at 7 pm, on Monday, April 20,

in the City Council Chambers at Blaine City Hall.

Mayor Tom Ryan’s Office HoursMayor, Tom Ryan, has new offices hours.

Tuesdays, 2:30 to 4:30 pmWestwood Conference Room

Visits with Mayor Ryan are held in the Westwood Conference Room located on the first floor of Blaine City Hall on a first come, first served basis.

6th Annual Green Expo (cont’d from Page 1)Activities this year include:• Booths, displays and activities from local and regional sustainability-focused businesses.• Make your own non-toxic cleaner station.• Kids’ hands-on project presented by Home Depot.• The wellness center – the best place to learn and try out alternative healing such as:

massage, chiropractic work, acupuncture, yoga, and herbal consults.• Prize giveaways including rain barrels, compost bins and more.• Gear Grab – donate items that no longer fit or pick up some new-to-you gear for the upcoming

season! Items such as helmets, shin pads, balls, sticks, cleats, gloves, rackets and more.About the Green ExpoThe Green Expo started in 2010 as a partnership between the City of Coon Rapids and its Sustainability Commission. The commission is made up of residents with an interest in the environment and sustainable living practices for the future. From the beginning, the goal of the expo has been to educate and empower others to live sustainably and responsibly. In 2014, the NSC approached the cities of both Coon Rapids and Blaine about producing a Green Expo together. With Coon Rapids’ prior experience leading the way, the event has grown to provide more information to a much larger community. We understand that sustainability does not stop at city borders, and we hope that in years to come the expo continues to expand its audience and exhibitors.

For more updates about the Green Expo,visit us on the webat WWW.MNGREENEXPO.ORG or WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/MNGREENEXPO .

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Ditch ObstructionsWe need your “eyes” to help monitor the public drainage ditches in Coon Creek Watershed District (CCWD). Look for blockages of water flow or blocked culverts.Notice backed-up water, especially after snowmelt? It may be the result of an obstruction. Please call CCWD at 763-755-0975 or email us at [email protected]

if you see an obstruction in a creekor drainage ditch.

Thank you for your help.

Volunteer Van DriverHave some time on your hands? Looking to give back to your community? We have a great opportunity for you to join our fleet of drivers to bring participants to and from the Senior Center for programs and lunch. Be a regular driver or be on the substitute list. Hours vary slightly from day to day based on riders registered and time of last event.

Call 763-786-9375 for further details. Training provided.

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Blaine Arbor Day Tree Sale-Marc Shippee, City Forester

“I looked up my family tree, and found out I was the sap.” ~Rodney DangerfieldAhhh, good ole Rodney, he never did get any respect. But you can respect the fact that this is your opportunity to purchase and plant one of the world’s longest living organisms. It’s true, some individual trees are over 5,000 years old, and some clonal tree colonies are over 80,000 years old. Wow! If I were a tree that old, I would have to cut down a buddy, just to use as a cane ... but I digress.

when Saturday, May 9,20159 am to 1 pmMother’s Day Weekend

where Blaine Public Works10801 Town Square Drive NE

To reserve a tree, you can contact Public Works at 763-785-6165or by email at [email protected] .

These are bareroot trees, and there is no warranty. The sale is limited to two trees per residence, and you must be a Blaine resident to order. Order now, and pay for the trees when you pick them up (cash or check only). At the end of the sale, we’ll sell any remaining trees on a first come/first served basis. Bring your appetite because our friends at Advanced Disposal will be providing a barbeque lunch for everyone.Without further adieu, let’s meet this year’s timeless candidates:

SpecieS Size coSt*Sugar Maple 1.25 inch $40

Autumn Blaze Maple 1.5 inch $57River Birch 5 foot clump $20Blue Beech 1.25 inch $45Shademaster® Honeylocust 6 foot $30

Japanese Tree Lilac 6 foot clump $37Honeyscrisp Apple Std. 1.25 inch $19Sweet Sixteen Apple Std. 1 inch $17

Parker Pear 1 inch $17

Summerscrisp Pear 1 inch $17Mount Royal Plum Std. 11/16 inch $14

(Haralson and Honeycrisp will pollinate each other)*Sales tax included in price

If you ever have a tree question or concern, please feel free to contact Marc Shippee at 763-717-2660 or [email protected] .

Sewer Backup? Contact Public WorksResidents experiencing a sewer backup should immediately contact the City of Blaine Public Works Department. Public Works will check the sewer main for blockages, as tree roots in the line can cause backups for neighbors as well. Call 763-785-6165, during normal business hours from 7 am to 3 pm.

Call 763-427-1212, outside of normal business hours.

Community Garden PlotsThe Blaine Community Garden is located adjacent to Blaine City Hall’s south parking lot and consists of 48 plots. The City will prepare the soil for planting, mark each plot, and provide water access. Plots are approximately 15 feet by 20 feet; half-plots are 15 feet x 10 feet. Plots will be ready for use in early May. One plot per household. Registration forms are available online at Blaineparks.com and at Blaine City Hall.The registration dates and priority for renting a garden plot are included on the right.All rental fees include tax.

MARCH 2 – 6 - New resident gardeners and returning gardeners request different plots.MARCH 9 – UNTIL FULL - Non-resident gardeners.APRIL 29 - Community Garden MeetingREGULAR PLOTS (15X20)

Resident .................................... $68.57Senior Resident (55+)................$57.85Non-Resident ............................$80.34HALF-PLOTS (15X10, LIMITED NUMBER)

Resident .................................... $44.85Senior Resident (55+)................$32.14Non-Resident ............................ $53.56

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More information about Parks & Recreation programs is available at 763-785-6164 or in the current Recreation Connection online at BLAINEPARKS.COM .

FACEBOOK.COM/BLAINEPARKSMN

TWITTER.COM/BLAINEPARKSMN

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2015 Summer Recreation Connection

Registration begins at 8 am March 16! Visit BLAINEPARKS.COM.

Summer EmploymentIf you have enthusiasm, energy and excitement to work with kids, then this is the job for you! We offer great hours, competitive pay, excellent training and a fun work environment. Applicants must be 17 years of age or older. Applications are available in our office or online at blaineparks.com. Deadline is March 27. Interviews will take place in early April. Call 763-785-6164 for more information.

Spring Egg HuntFAMILIES WITH CHILDREN AGES 10 & UNDER

DATE: Friday, March 27 TIME: 6:30 pm FEE: FREE LOCATION: Airport Park 105th & Radisson RoadPlastic eggs filled with candy are hidden on 3 different softball fields. Kids can gather at least 8 eggs. Egg hunt begins promptly at 6:30. No registration; check-in by 6:20.

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Community Outings

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Debutante’s BallHISTORY THEATER

DATE: Thursday, March 26 TIME: 9 am – 2 pm FEE: $32

Dirty Rotten ScoundrelsOLD LOG THEATHER

DATES: Thursday, April 16 TIME: 11 am – 4:45 pm FEE: $59

St. Paul’s FinestREGISTER BY APRIL 6

DATES: Tuesday, April 21 TIME: 8:45 am – 2:45 pm FEE: $55

St. Croix CasinoTURTLE LAKE

DATE: Wednesday, April 15 (Register by April 8) TIME: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm FEE: $7 ($5 back in play)

All community outings depart from and return to Blaine City Hall unless noted

otherwise and include motor coach transportation. Times include pick-up and

return. Outings include lunch and ticket (unless noted otherwise).

For more information on these trips, please call 763-785-6164 .

This casino trip departs from and returns to the Senior Center, 9150 Central Avenue NE,

and includes motor coach transportation and coffee & donuts prior to departure.

Time includes pick-up and return.

763-785-6164

Parks and RecreationBlaine

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Youth Activities Adult ActivitiesCookie DecoratingAGES 8 W/PARENT/ADULTHeld at Blaine City Hall lunchroom. DATE: Thursday, March 26 SESSION 1: 5:30 – 6:30 pm SESSION 2: 6:45 – 7:45 pm FEE: $9/resident; $10/non-resident

Amazing AthletesAGES 3 & 4 AND 4 THRU 6Held at Sunnyside Park Building. DATES: Wed., March 11 – April 15 AGES 3 & 4: 5:45 – 6:30 pm AGES 4 – 6: 6:30 – 7:30 pm FEE: $57/resident; $63/non-resident

Robotics: Jedi & Imperial DroidsGRADES 2 THRU 6Held at Blaine City Hall. DATE: Saturdays, April 11 & 18 TIME: 9 am – Noon FEE: $72/resident; $79/non-resident

BabysittingAGES 11 & UPHeld at Blaine City Hall. DATES: Saturday, May 2 TIME: 9 am – 4 pm FEE: $70/resident; $77/non-resident

Zumba & Zumba Gold ZUMBA AT QC DANCE STUDIO DATES: Thu., March 26 – April 23 TIME: 7:15 – 8 pm FEE: $28/resident; $33/non-resident ZUMBA GOLD AT QC DANCE STUDIO DATES: Wed., March 25 – April 22 TIME: 7:15 – 8 pm FEE: $28/resident; $33/non-resident

Zumba Jam!Held at QC Dance Studio.

SPRING BREAK BEACH THEME DATE: Sat., March 14 TIME: 9 – 10:30 am

ZUMBA JAM! DATE: Sat., April 18 TIME: 9 – 10:30 am

MOTHER’S DAY DATE: Sun., May 10 TIME: 3 – 4 pm FEE: $10/each session

Adult SoftballLeagues for Men’s Women’s, Co-Rec and Church teams are offered. Games are played at Airport and Aquatore Parks. Registration materials are available after Jan. 1 and registration begins Feb. 2.

Adult Co-Rec KickballRoster limit is 20 players. Entry fee includes one game ball, umpires and 16 games. Games are played at Airport and Aquatore Parks. Eight week season begins May 10. Teams play double headers each week. Register by April 24.

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The City of Blaine sponsors a recycling drop-off day the third Saturday of each month in the parking lot at Aquatore Park. The parking lot is near the City water tower and treatment plant. The collection event runs from 10 am until 2 pm and is open to anyone. You do not need to be a Blaine resident to bring items to partcipate.Please Note: No garbage will be accepted.

BLAINE

JR’s Appliance Recyclers651-454-9215•Appliances, florescent lamps,

electronics, rechargeable batteries, and tires.

There is a fee for some items. Most appliances $5 ea. Most electronics are between $2 and $25 depending on size. Drop off most tires and rechargeable batteries for a small fee. Free items include scrap metal and car batteries.

Bikes 4 Kids (Returns April 19)Drop off any size bike. Bikes are refurbished or used for parts on other bikes. Bikes are donated to people in need. No charge to drop off a bike. For more information visit BIKES4KIDSMN.ORG.

Randy’s Environmental Services 763-972-3335•Free paper shredding.

Aquatore Park, 9150 Central Ave

RECYCLINGSATURDAYS!

10:00 am - 2:00 pm3rd Saturday of Each Month

7

Other City Recycling Opportunities763-785-6192• Call for more information about

recycling opportunities available in Blaine or visit:

WWW.CI.BLAINE.MN.US | search keyword RECYCLE

Advanced Disposal763-786-7233For Information regarding curbside yardwaste service or to report missed garbage, recycling or yardwaste pick-up.

Recycle to the Max and Save!Can You Really Put Most of Your Refuse in Your Recycling Cart? Yes, You Can! Did you know that most regular household waste is recyclable? IT IS! You can join the thousands of Blaine households that recycle the maximum amount of their household refuse and save money by using a smaller garbage cart. The following materials are all recyclable in Blaine’s single-family recycling program with Advance Disposal. Recycle these materials to Recycle to The Max and Save!• Newspapers, and all inserts• All magazines and catalogs• Phone books• Training manuals• All mixed mail including envelopes (if it

comes in the mail and is paper, you can recycle it!)

• All office and school papers, file folders, fax sheets, notebooks, etc

• Paperback books• Corrugated cardboard boxes cut up to fit

in recycling cart (or flatten and bundle 3 feet by 3 feet by 1 foot thick, and place 3 feet from the recycling cart)

• Box board (cake, cereal, cracker, tissue, and shoe/shirt boxes)

• Brown paper bags• Aluminum cans• Tin/steel cans• Glass bottles and jars (clear, brown, and

green)• Plastic containers and packaging number

1 through 7

Do not recycle the following items:• Plastic bags• Styrofoam • Plastic motor oil bottles • Pizza boxes• Any type of used tissue product

If you need an additional recycling cart to handle all of the recycling material, you can get one AT NO ADDITIONAL COST! That’s right; you can put out as much recycling as possible without an increase in cost. In fact, it will save you money by allowing you to use a smaller garbage cart. Join the thousands of Blaine residents that are recycling to the max and saving money on their garbage bills!

To change your level of garbage service, call 763-785-6141 . For an additional or larger recycling cart, call Advanced Disposal at 763-786-7233 .

Garbage and Recycling Rates Increaseby 25 Cents per MonthTo keep pace with increasing collection, transportation, and processing costs, Blaine residents in single-family housing will see a small increase in their garbage and recycling rate. The rates will increase by $0.25 per month, or $0.75 per quarter. The new garbage and recycling rates are $43.95 per quarter for unlimited service, $37.95 per quarter for the 64-gallon garbage cart, and $27.45 per quarter for the 32-gallon cart. The new senior rate is $21.97 per quarter (see more information below). Remember, recycling is ALWAYS unlimited, so recycle as much as you can!

Recycle to the Max and SaveOne of the best ways to save money on your garbage and recycling bill is to Recycle to the Max. Under Blaine’s curbside recycling program, ALMOST ALL of your household waste is actually recyclable. Putting more recyclables in your recycling cart will not cost you any more money! In fact, it can make it possible to SAVE MONEY by using a smaller garbage cart.Senior Garbage Rate Available to Seniors Who QualifyBlaine has a reduced garbage rate for seniors that meet the age and financial qualifications. In order to get the reduced garbage rate the resident must be:• 65 years of age or older and meet the following hardship condition.• The annual gross income of the household according to its most recent federal income tax

return does not exceed the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines for a family of four, plus $3,000. If no such return was filed, the City shall require the applicant to submit other documentation to show that this qualification is met.

If you are interested in the reduced garbage rate for seniors, and meet the conditions, call 763-785-6141 for more information.

Page 8: Blaine CityConnect - 2015 Mar/Apr

10801 Town Square Drive NEBlaine, MN 55449-8101

763-784-6700

PRSRT STDU.S. Postage

PAID TWIN CITIES, MNPermit No. 29418

ECRWSSPOSTAL CUSTOMER

DATED MATERIALPREPARED BY THE OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER

POSTMASTER: TIME SENSITIVE MAIL

The Parks and Recreation Department is excited to conduct the fourth annual triathlon in the City of Blaine on a NEW DATE Saturday, September 12, 2015, beginning at 8:00a.m. The venue for the Blaine Triathlon will be held at beautiful Lakeside Commons Park located at 3020 Lakes Parkway. The race is sanctioned by USA Triathlon. From novice to veteran triathletes, the Blaine Triathlon will be a fun and challenging race consisting of a 0.3 mile swim, 16.7 mile bike ride, and a 3.5 mile run. If swimming or biking or running is not your favorite exercise, participants can register a relay team of two or three individuals whereby they choose the leg of the race they want to com-pete. The registration fee is $75 for individuals and $100 per relay team and includes a dry fit race tee shirt, swim cap, post race refreshments, and all finishers receive official race hardware.

For registration and more informationabout the Blaine Triathlon,

go to WWW.BLAINETRIATHLON.COM. We are also seeking enthusiastic volunteers to help out at the triathlon that will include a wide range of duties throughout the race.

For more information, go to WWW.BLAINETRIATHLON.COM

and select VOLUNTEERS for details. We always welcome community businesses and organizations that are interested in a sponsor-ship opportunity for this exciting event. Please check out the sponsorship brochure on our web-site under the sponsors tab to see how you can be part of the Blaine Triathlon.

Thank you to our generous sponsors!Ages 15 and up

Saturday, September 128:00 am

Lakeside Common Park

www.BlaineTriathlon.com

Join us for the 8th annual Blaine World Fest as we celebrate the rich diversity of our community. Blaine World Fest promotes the sharing of cultural experiences and expands our community’s cultural

understanding through entertainment, delicious cuisine, art, conversation, and exhibits.

May 16, 2015 • 1-4 pm • Town Square ParkNow accepting applications for: Food Vendors • Sponsors • Cultural Exhibits • Volunteers

New Date!New Date!

FestW rldFestBlaine ‘15

W rldBlaineEvents.com/World-Fest

New Date!New Date!