HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-0910 Sept-OctVolume 28, Issue 5 September/October 2025
ANDOVER TODAYNEWSLETTER
MATERIALS THAT HAVE CHARGES:
• APPLIANCES: Most - $10 each; Camper refrigerators - $75; Gas/Ammonia (Servel) refrigerators - $150 and up• ELECTRONICS: Charge is determined by item/size • FLUORESCENT LAMPS: First 5 free per household for Andover residents • MATTRESSES & BOX SPRINGS: Dry and not moldy. $25 each
CASH OR MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO: City of Andover
For a complete list of items accepted and their charges, please visit www.andovermn.gov
• TIRES: Price depends on sizeCASH OR MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO: First State Tire
MATERIALS THAT ARE FREE:
• BATTERIES: Lead acid car, boat and motorcycle rechargeable batteries - The Knights of Columbus collect these batteries• BICYCLES: Any condition. They are repaired and given away• DOCUMENT SHREDDING• PROPANE TANKS• SCRAP METAL: All metals must be free from other materials• USED EYE GLASSES: The Andover Lions collect these. This is an ongoing project.
We can NOT accept any furniture.
Do not bring Household Hazardous Waste. Anoka County HHW Facility (763) 324-3400
Call (763) 767-5114 with recycling questions.
ANDOVER FALL RECYCLING DAY Saturday, September 13th
9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.Andover Public Works - 1785 Crosstown Boulevard NW
JOIN THE ANDOVER FIRE DEPARTMENT
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be the calm in the chaos-the one who runs toward danger when others retreat?
Everyday members of the Andover Fire Department stand ready to put their lives on the line to protect people and property
in our community. If you are looking for a way to serve your community, challenge yourself, and earn a little extra income,
the role of Paid On-Call Firefighter just might be what you are looking for. Paid On-Call Firefighters are an essential part of our community’s emergency response system. They respond to fires, medical emergencies, car accidents, hazardous material incidents, natural disasters and more. These calls often come out during nights, weekends or in between life’s daily routines. It’s not just a job, it’s a commitment to something bigger than yourself.
The City of Andover will provide all necessary training which includes certifications in Firefighter
1, Firefighter 2, Haz Mat Ops and Emergency Medical Technician. We also provide all the
protective equipment and uniforms you will need. The commitment on your part would be to
complete the required training, respond to 25 percent of the calls on your shift per quarter and
work 14 hours a month on duty crew. You would also need to live within a 5-minute or 5-mile
drive to one of our three fire stations. If you have any questions, call Carl Johnson at (763) 767-5195. Applications can be found on the City’s webpage, at City Hall or at Andover Fire Station 1.
We are hoping to have an informational night, April 2026.
ANDOVER CITY OFFICIALS
MAYOR
Jamie Barthel (612) 669-7512
cm.barthel@andovermn.gov
COUNCIL MEMBERS
Rick Engelhardt (612) 889-8097
cm.engelhardt@andovermn.gov
Karen Godfrey (612) 670-3186
cm.godfrey@andovermn.gov
Scott Schue (763) 276-3493
cm.schue@andovermn.gov
Jonathan Shafto (651) 387-2728
cm.shafto@andovermn.gov
CITY HALL
1685 Crosstown Boulevard NW
Main Phone: (763) 755-5100
Fax Number: (763) 755-8923
COMMUNITY CENTER
15200 Hanson Boulevard NW
Main Phone: (763) 755-3238
Email: accinfo@andovermn.gov
POLICE & FIRE
All Emergencies: 911
Police: (763) 427-1212
Fire: (763) 755-9825
CITY OFFICES WILL
BE CLOSED
SEPTEMBER 1ST
IN OBSERVANCE
OF LABOR DAY.
COUNCIL MEMBER’S REPORT
Karen Godfrey
Exploring Andover’s beautiful trails on a crisp fall day can be fulfilling and educational for the whole family. Before you head out, be sure to check the laws governing the use of electric-
assisted bicycles, motorized foot scooters and electric or gas motorcycles.
First, let’s generally define the characteristics of these vehicles.
• Electric-Assisted Bicycles (E-Bikes): These are generally similar to a traditional bicycle, with two (sometimes three) wheels, a saddle seat, and operable pedals for human propulsion.
The electric motor delivers 750 watts or less of power. There are three classes of E-Bikes, based on whether the motor assist is activated with or without pedaling and the maximum
speed of 20 or 28 miles per hour (MPH). Motorized bicycles/mopeds with motors over 750
watts or capable of speeds exceeding 28 MPH are regulated like motorcycles.
• Motorcycles (including some small vehicles that are called Mopeds): These are powered
by electric or gas motors over 1500 watts or two horsepower.
• Motorized Foot Scooters: These vehicles are designed for a person to stand on and be propelled by a motor.
Now that we’ve defined these vehicles, let’s explore the Minnesota state laws that govern their
operation on public roadways and trails.
Generally, electric-assisted bicycles and motorized foot scooters may be used in the same manner as traditional bicycles, with a few specific requirements. You must be 15 years old or
older to operate an electric-assisted bicycle. The minimum age to operate a motorized scooter is 12, and protective headgear is required for scooter operators under 18 years old. Motorized
scooters must be equipped with a headlight and a taillight.
Motorcycles (electric or gas) are NOT allowed on sidewalks or bike paths. Operators must have valid vehicle registration, a motorcycle endorsement on a valid driver’s license, and insurance.
Motorcycles must have operational headlights and taillights, and at least one rear-view mirror.
All traffic laws apply to their use on public roadways.
Deputies are proactively educating the public and enforcing the statutes that apply to the use of
these vehicles on City streets, sidewalks and trails.
Here is a quick reference guide, based on information provided by Anoka County Sheriff’s Office, Commander Lenzmeier:
If you or your children use any of these motorized vehicles, please ensure that your whole
family understands the applicable rules for safe operation. We can all enjoy safe travels through
Andover by applying common sense and courtesy.
Access Andover City park and trail maps on the City website or at Andover City Hall.
If you have immediate public safety concerns, please call 911. If you have non-time-sensitive
public safety questions, please call Anoka County Sheriff’s Office Crime Prevention Specialist
Laura Landes at (763) 324-5179. Page 2 AndoverToday
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PARK PLACE
Jason Baumunk, Parks and Streets Operations Manager
It’s been a productive summer for the Parks Department at the City of Andover, marked by exciting new additions to our parks and trail systems. In addition to our regular maintenance, we’ve completed two significant projects that we’re eager
to share.
New Park in Fields of Winslow Cove
We’re pleased to announce the completion of a new park in the Fields of Winslow Cove development, located off Prairie Road NW. The Fields of Winslow Cove East Park is a scenic addition to our community, featuring a new playground, a
picnic table, a park bench and newly planted trees. A walking trail wraps around the park, offering a peaceful route through
the development while overlooking a natural wetland. We encourage residents to visit this wonderful new space.
Reservable Shelter at Pine Hills North ParkAnother major addition is the new reservable shelter at Pine Hills
North Park, located at 3535 - 161st Avenue NW. This new shelter is
nestled among the trees, providing a beautiful and private setting
away from the park’s soccer fields. It offers covered seating for up
to 50 people, an outdoor grill, indoor restrooms and a food service area with electrical outlets for appliances. This makes it an ideal
venue for birthday parties, graduation celebrations and other small
gatherings. We anticipate opening the shelter for reservations soon
and will post details on the City of Andover’s website and social
media channels once the final contractor work is complete.
Share Your Input with the Park & Recreation Commission
The Park & Recreation Commission regularly meets to discuss and make recommendations on improvements and changes
to our parks and trails. Public input is highly valuable to both the Commission and staff as we plan for the future of
Andover’s park system. If you have suggestions or input regarding park and trail enhancements, additions, or changes, we invite you to attend a meeting. The Commission meets at City Hall on the first and third Thursdays of most months at 6:00
p.m., with time set aside at the beginning of each meeting for resident input.
For more information on these projects, or if you have questions about our park system, please contact me at (763) 767-
5178. A free park and trail map is available on the City’s website, www.andovermn.gov, or you can pick one up at City
Hall.
Pine Hills North Park Shelter
ADOPT-A-PARK AND
ADOPT-A-STREET PROGRAMS
The City of Andover has an Adopt-A-Park Program which
allows individuals or community groups to adopt a park
and keep it litter free for a two or four-year commitment. A sign will be placed in the park recognizing your
contribution to the park system.
The City also has an Adopt-A-City Street Program which
allows residents/groups to adopt and clean up a two-mile stretch of road on one of our City Streets. Cleanup
involves a two-year commitment, and cleanup is done
twice a year, spring and fall. A sign will be placed on the
street with your name or group name of who is responsible
for cleaning that street.
If you are interested in adopting one of the available streets
or parks, please contact the Public Works Administrative
Assistant at (763) 767-5175 or d.lenzmeier@andovermn.
gov. Thank you for helping us keep the City of Andover looking great!
FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
Whether you have a full, empty or expired fire extinguisher,
please do not throw it in your household trash or recycling
bin.
In addition to many other hazardous household items.
The Household Hazardous Waste Facility Site in Blaine,
MN accepts fire extinguishers. There is no charge to use
the site. Bring identification, such as a driver’s license, as proof of residency.
For more information, visit https://
www.anokacountymn.gov/369/
Household-Hazardous-Waste-Facility.
The Household Hazardous Waste
Facility is located at 3230 - 101st
Avenue NE, Blaine, MN.
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COON CREEK CORRIDOR TRAIL EAST OF PRAIRIE ROAD NW
A new section of trail is planned on the north side of Coon Creek and will start at Prairie Road NW running east and end
with a bridge crossing south of the Shadowbrook North development. The design for the project will be completed this fall and construction is anticipated to begin in the spring of 2026. This project will be partially funded through the MNDNR
Local Trail Connection grant.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact David Berkowitz, Director of Public Works/City Engineer at (763)
767-5133 or Jason Law, Assistant City Engineer at (763) 767-5130.
SNOWPLOWING
CURB STAKING GUIDELINES
To assist snowplow drivers during early season snowfalls, residents are encouraged to place wooden stakes along the
curb line. These stakes help drivers identify the edge of
the street, ensuring safer and more efficient plowing.
Wooden stakes with the top four inches painted orange will be available at City Hall from the second week of
October through the end of November. When placing the
stakes, please use wooden stakes and not steel posts. They
should be positioned no more than six inches behind the
curb and spaced approximately 25 feet apart.
Please note that the City is not responsible for any damage
to items placed within the right-of-way, including but
not limited to landscaping, sod or irrigation systems. The
right-of-way is the designated area for snow storage after plowing.
America honors its veterans because they have
served with courage, honor and commitment.
Make someone’s memories last forever. A beautiful
gift that keeps on giving. If you are a veteran or have
a loved one who is a veteran, be a part of our memorial by having your name or veteran of your choice engraved
in a granite plaque. Our beautiful Veterans Memorial is
the perfect place to honor those who have served in the
military for our country. For more information, please
refer to Veterans Memorial Policy on the City’s website https://www.andovermn.gov/488/Veterans-Memorial.
VETERANS MEMORIAL PLAQUES
Website: www.AndoverMN.Gov/ACC • Email: accinfo@andovermn.gov • Main Phone: (763) 755-3238
The Andover Community Center offers drop-in activities open to the public, no pre-registration required. Admission is
$7 per person. Cash, credit, ACC Punch Cards and Free Andover Resident Passes accepted for activity admission fees. Monthly activity calendars provide specific dates and times of ACC activities. Visit www.AndoverMN.Gov/ACC for more
information. Register for programs at https://acc.finnlyconnect.com/registration/activitylist.
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OPEN HOCKEY - Weekday Adult Hockey 16+. Gloves
and helmets are required. Goalies skate for FREE.
BASKETBALL - All ages shoot hoops. No full court
games, team practices or training equipment allowed. ½court games allowed if space allows.
OPEN SKATE - All ages welcome. Skate rental available for $5 per pair, sizes available youth 8 – adult 13. Skatesharpening available $8 per pair.
PICKLEBALL - Drop-in open pickleball times include weekday, evening and weekend hours. Graphite paddle rental available $3 ea.
VOLLEYBALL - Volleyball is for participants who are 14 years of age or older.
WALKING TRACK - The indoor walking/jogging track is open daily. Hours may vary based on private rentals
and facility hours of operation. Admission is free for
Andover residents, however, those utilizing the track
between the hours of 6:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday - Friday
must check in at the information desk to show proof of
residency. Create your household account at https://www.
andovermn.gov/494/Andover-Residents for easy check-
in. Individuals using the track evenings and weekends are
not required to check-in. Non-resident admission fees are
$2 per person, Monday – Friday, 6:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
ACC INDOOR SOCCER PROGRAM - The Fall Indoor Youth Soccer Program is for youth ages 4 - 9. Program will
be held Saturday mornings, October 4th – November 15th (6
weeks) $87 per player. This recreational program focuses on
individual skill development and having fun. All players will
be organized into age-appropriate teams with each player
receiving a team t-shirt and an award. Teams will practice
skills for the first 30 minutes then scrimmage against another
team for the remaining 30 minutes of the program. This program is a great start for beginners and fun for those who have already played organized soccer.
ICE SKATING LESSONS - Fall lessons for youth ages 3 - 15 will be held Sunday evenings, October 5th - November 16th (6 sessions) $96 per skater. Lessons include 30 minutes
of instruction and 30 minutes of optional on-ice practice.
INTRODUCTION TO ICE SKATING - Introduces the
sport of ice skating to youth ages 3 - 5 who have little to
no skating experience. Classes held Sunday evenings, 30
minutes in length and features age appropriate, off and on-
ice activities. Program meets for 3-weeks and cost is $56 per
skater. Fall Session I begins October 5th and Session II begins
November 2nd.
https://acc.finnlyconnect.com/registration/activitylist
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Incorporated 1974
Date Exported: 6/2/2022 2:32 PMPath: H:\GIS\Working\Projects\CommunityDevelopment\Planning\GeneralMapping\GeneralMapping.aprx Andover GISData Credit: Anoka County GIS, ESRI, MN Geospatial Commons, City of Andover
This map is intended for referencepurposes only with mapping gradeaccuracy of the data. The City of Andoverdoes not make claim that the featuresdepicted represent true locations;therefore the City assumes no liability forany errors or omissions herein.
0 10.5 Miles
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Prohibited Zone
Restricted Zone South
Restricted Zone North
City Limits
Hunting / Discharge
Map
WEAPONS/HUNTING REQUIREMENTS
With hunting season approaching, the City wants to remind
residents of the restrictions regarding the discharge of ¿rearms
and bows in Andover. Hunters must always have permission
from the property owner and meet all regulations listed below. The information below is a summary of City Code 5-4 Weapons.
For complete regulations please refer to the City Code. Contact City Hall or visit the City’s website at www.andovermn.gov for
copies of City Code. The map below indicates the various zones
within the City.
Prohibited Zone: The discharge of ¿rearms and bows is
prohibited.
Restricted Zone North: To discharge a ¿rearm a minimum of ten (10) acres is required. To discharge a bow, a minimum of
two and one-half (2.5) acres is required. A Deer Hunting Permit
is not required for this zone regardless of weapon.
Restricted Zone South: Early Goose and Regular Waterfowl
Season To discharge a ¿rearm a minimum of ten 1 acres is
reTuired. Refer to the MN DNR for speci¿c dates and regulations. No permit is required for goose/waterfowl hunting.
Deer Hunting - Bow: To discharge a bow, a minimum of two and one-half (2.5) acres is required. Bow hunting does not
require a Deer Hunting Permit.
Deer Hunting - Firearm: To discharge a ¿rearm shotgun only), a minimum of forty (40) acres is required as well as a
City-issued Deer Hunting Permit. A permit is required for each
hunter and all rules/regulations established by the MN DNR apply. No discharge shall occur within one-quarter mile of any
urban development, park, or institutional use.
Deer Hunting Permit: In order to receive a Deer Hunting Permit, an individual must be the landowner or an immediate
family member and have written permission from at least ¿fty (50) percent of adjacent landowners.
If you are applying for a Deer Hunting Permit or have any
additional questions, please contact Aidan Breen at (763)
767-5142 or a.breen@andovermn.gov.
Scan for Hunting & Discharge of
Weapons Map
ANDOVER COMMUNITY GARDEN
PLOT RENTERS
Now that the season is close to being over, we want to remind the gardeners that all Garden Plots must be cleaned and cleared
out by the end of the day on Sunday, October 19, 2025, please
refer to your guideline paperwork for all rules and regulations
regarding clean-up. We hope you had a great season!
ANDOVER SENIOR GROUP
COME JOIN US We meet for
social interaction and fun in the afternoons of the 1st and 3rd
Mondays of the month and every Friday for game day at the Senior
Center next door to City Hall.
If you wish to join seniors for fun and want more information you
can call (763) 767-5159 and leave your name/number and
we will return your call as soon as we retrieve the message.
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HOMESTEAD FILING
New homeowners are reminded that December 15, 2025 is
the deadline to file for Homestead Classification. You can file at the Anoka County Government Center. A copy of the deed and Certificate of Real Estate Value is needed to file. If you
have any questions, contact Anoka County at (763) 323-5400.
SOLICITORS
Solicitors, peddlers, transient merchants and food trucks are required to carry a permit approved by the City. If someone approaches you at your home or if someone is selling at a location (parking lot, street corner), you can ask if they have a permit from the City. If they do not, call the non-emergency police number at (763) 427-1212 to report them.
Each approved solicitor is issued a City badge with the following information on the badge: license number, expiration date, company they are representing and their name. A current list of licensed solicitors is located on the City’s website.
ANDOVER FAMILY FUN FEST:
REMINDER OF A GREAT COMMUNITY
TO CELEBRATE!
For one weekend every
summer, we all get together
with our neighbors, friends,
family, classmates and coworkers to embrace
community: we eat some
great fair food, join in on some healthy competition, and enjoy
some spectacular fireworks in our own backyard. As a wrap-
up for this year, here are some highlights:
A big congratulations to our AFFF Winners:
5K Top Finishers
1. Men’s: Tom Breuckman, Andover (25) time: 15:262. Women’s: Isabelle Yuhanna (19) time: 20:27
Medallion Hunt
Congratulations to Lexi Mahlum for finding this year’s
medallion after 4 clues during her first year searching! She had visited several parks, ending her day finding it in a Starbucks
wrapper tied to an evergreen tree in Oak Bluff Park.
A huge thank you to Premier Banks of Andover for sponsoring
the Medallion Hunt.
Above: Kayleah Heffron from Premier Banks presents Lexi Mahlum with her prize money.
This festival would not be possible without the volunteers on
the AFFF committee and our generous community businesses
and organizations for their donations and involvement. Also,
thank you to Andover City Hall & Public Works, Andover Community Center, Anoka County Sheriffs, Andover
Fire Department and many other community leaders who
volunteered their time and talents to make this a special and
safe weekend for our community.
For feedback, photos and to stay connected for next year,
please visit our Facebook page: Andover Family Fun Fest!
We’re already looking forward to next year – mark your
calendars for the 30th Anniversary of the Andover Family Fun
Fest which will be held on July 10 & 11, 2026!
ECRWSSRESIDENTAndover, MN 55304
POSTMASTER: TIME SENSITIVE MAIL
1685 Crosstown Blvd. N.W.
Andover, MN 55304
DATED MATERIAL
PRSRT STDU.S. PostagePAIDPermit No. 26 Anoka, MN
Andover TodAyAndover TodAy
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