The URL can be used to link to this page

Home My WebLink About2026-0506 May-JuneVolume 29, Issue 3 May/June 2026 ANDOVER TODAYNEWSLETTER Category: Architecture and City Life Rainbow Over Nightingale by Roger Hanson Category: Overall Favorite Silence after the Snow by Marilyn Sullivan Category: Nature and LandscapeBarred Owl by Dave Knapp Category: People and Parks Andover Youth Hockey Tryouts by Tom Siemsen ANDOVER PHOTO CONTEST 2026 Thank you to everyone who participated in the recent January/February City of Andover Photo Contest. Your creativity, effort, and enthusiasm truly made it a success! We loved seeing the wide range of entries across all our categories. Each submission brought something special, and we’re incredibly grateful for the time and passion you shared with us. As we celebrate this round of talent, we’re already looking ahead to our next contest, which will open July 1st. Start gathering your ideas and inspiration now, we can’t wait to see what you’ll create next! 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 MEETING AGENDAS & MINUTES andovermn.gov QCTV qctv.org/andover REPORT A PROBLEM andovermn.gov CITY WEBSITE andovermn.gov Page 2 AndoverToday CITY OFFICES WILL BE CLOSED MONDAY, MAY 25TH IN OBSERVANCE OF MEMORIAL DAY. FRIDAY, JUNE 19TH IN OBSERVANCE OF JUNETEENTH Jonathan ShaftoCOUNCIL MEMBER’S REPORT STAYING CONNECTED AND CELEBRATING COMMUNITY IN ANDOVER As we approach spring and summer, there is a lot on the horizon here in Andover. With that in mind, I want to take a moment to highlight two things that keep our community strong: staying engaged with your local government and coming together for community events that make Andover feel like home. Join us at City Council & Commission Meetings! Each month, the City of Andover hosts a regular cadence of City Council meetings, workshops and commission meetings that guide the decisions shaping our city’s future. These meetings are open to the public, and we would love to see you there! If you can’t join us in person, these meetings are also livestreamed and archived so you can watch anytime at qctv.org/andover. • City Council Meetings: Held in the City Council Chambers on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. This is where the Council sets policy, holds resident forums, approves budgets and makes decisions that guide Andover’s long-term direction. • Council Workshops: Scheduled on the fourth Tuesday at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall (Conference Rooms A/B). These provide an informal setting for in depth discussion and long range planning. • Economic Development Authority (EDA): Meets on the third Tuesday of each month at 6:00 p.m. to focus on business growth, redevelopment, and economic vitality. • Planning & Zoning Commission: Meets on the second and fourth Tuesday at 7:00 p.m. to review development proposals and land use items. • Park & Recreation Commission: Meets on the first and third Thursday at 6:00 p.m. to discuss park improvements and recreation programming. • Natural Resources Commission (coming soon!): We are excited to announce the transition from the Nature Preserve Commission to the newly formed Natural Resources Commission! Established to manage and enhance our City’s natural assets, this commission will play a vital role in protecting Andover’s environment. Meeting dates are currently being set - please check the City’s website for the most up-to- date meeting schedules and information on how you can get involved. Specific dates can always be found at andovermn.gov. These meetings are where ideas become action. I encourage you to join us, ask questions, or simply observe the process. Your engagement strengthens our work and ensures we remain grounded in the values and priorities of the people we serve. What’s on the Agenda? We strive to be as transparent as possible. You can easily access meetings agendas, detailed information packets, past meeting minutes and City budget info by following these steps:1.Visit the City website at andovermn.gov.2. Click on the “Agenda & Minutes”. Family Fun Fest: 30th Anniversary! Family Fun Fest remains one of Andover’s signature celebrations. This year, the festival will be held on Friday & Saturday, July 10 & 11, 2026. Perhaps the most exciting news is the return of the parade after a one year hiatus! While construction on the new roundabout required a pause last year, we are thrilled to welcome this tradition back now that the project is complete. I am looking forward to seeing everyone there–please swing by the City Hall booth and say hi! More information can be found at andoverfamilyfunfest.com. Looking Ahead Together Andover continues to grow, evolve and invest in its future. Whether you join us at a Council meeting or simply come out to enjoy the parade, your involvement is what makes this City such a special place to live. It’s an honor to represent you, and if you ever have questions or ideas, please feel free to reach out. AndoverToday Page 3 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. The Anoka County Sheriff deputies are proactively educating the public and enforcing the statutes that apply to the use of these vehicles on City streets, sidewalks, and trails. 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. 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. KNOW THE RULES, BE SAFE! ELECTRIC BIKES, SCOOTERS AND MOTORCYCLES RECREATIONAL BURNING IN ANDOVER • Recreational fires are allowed from 12:00 p.m. until 1:00 a.m. Sunday through Saturday • Recreational fires are not allowed for more than 3 consecutive days at the same location • Fires must always be attended by a responsible person who understands the rules for burning, and who can extinguish the fire.• The fire can be no larger than 3 feet x 3 feet and flames no higher than 3 feet. • The fire must be constructed in a “fire ring” and/or pit at least 25 feet away from any structure. • Wind speed must be below 10 miles per hour. • Flammable liquids may not be used to start the fire.• If a burning ban is in effect, all recreational fires are prohibited. • Only clean, dried wood or charcoal is permitted to be burned. Absolutely no grass, leaves or brush can be burned. MONTHLY RECYCLING Andover residents recycle appliances, electronics, mattresses, box springs, paper shredding and more the second Saturday of every month (except for July). For more information and fees associated with recycling, visit andovermn.gov/266/ Recycling. Upcoming Recycle Event Dates 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. May 9th June 13th Page 4 AndoverToday andovermn.gov/559/Clothing-Exchange PARK PLACE The picnic shelter at Pine Hills North Park, 3535 - 161st Avenue NW, is available for reservations for spring and summer. This shelter has a covered seating area, indoor bathrooms, and a concession area with a service window and sink. The rental of the shelter includes use of the concession area that has a prep sink, countertop, service window, and plenty of outlets. It is a perfect spot for birthday parties or graduation parties. Use of the shelters must be consistent with the Rules and Regulations adopted by the City in regard to usage in the park. The user fee is $200/4 hours and $40 per additional hour. A $500 fully refundable damange deposit is also required. Additional information and applications are available at andovermn. gov/558/Pine-Hills-Shelter-Rental. EVERBRIDGE MASS ALERTING HOW WE KEEP OUR COMMUNITY INFORMED The Anoka County Emergency Communications Center uses the Everbridge mass alerting system to quickly send important information during emergencies. This system helps us reach people the moment something serious happens, whether it’s a missing person, a dangerous situation, or critical public safety information. How Everbridge Sends IPAWS Alerts (Federal System): Everbridge is connected to FEMA’s Integrated Public Alert & Warning System (IPAWS). This allows us to send official emergency messages to: • Wireless Emergency Alerts (the text messages you receive automatically on your phone) • Television and radio broadcasts IPAWS alerts are reserved for urgent, life safety situations and do not require you to sign up, everyone in the affected area receives them automatically on a smart device if enabled in notifications. Citizen Alerts (Resident Connect): For all other important notifications like road closures, police activity updates, community safety information, or non life threatening updates that don’t meet IPAWS criteria, we use Everbridge’s Resident Connect system.These community alerts require residents to opt in, and they can be delivered to via phone, email, or text message. Why Opting In Matters: IPAWS is only used for the most critical emergency situations. But many important updates never rise to that level. If residents don’t opt in, they may miss timely information that helps keep citizens safe and informed. How to Sign Up: It only takes a couple of minutes to enroll in Citizen Alerts. Simply visit anokacountymn.gov/4635/Community-Notifications. ADOPT A PARK PROGRAM The Adopt-a-Park Program is a great community service activity that gives the citizens of Andover the opportunity to participate in helping to keep the parks clean and looking good. Individuals or community groups that adopt a park are responsible for picking up litter twice a year, spring and fall. If your group, organization, family or yourself are interested in doing something to make the community a better place to live, work and play, consider Adopting-a-Park. Contact the Public Works Administrative Assistant at (763) 767-5175 or d.lenzmeier@ andovermn.gov for more information. ANIMAL CONTROL No person shall own, keep, harbor or have custody of any dog over six (6) months of age without first obtaining a city dog license, (City Code 5-1A-2). Licenses are issued upon presentation of a current rabies certificate and the license fee of $6.00 per year. Licenses are available at the front desk at City Hall. Dogs or cats may not run at large and must be under effective control (City Code 5-1A-6B). Owners are required to clean up and dispose of their pet’s excrement (City Code 5-1A-6B). It shall be considered a nuisance for any animal to habitually or frequently bark or cry (City Code 5-1A-1). No person, firm or corporation shall harbor more than three (3) dogs or cats over the age of six (6) months in any one-family residence unit or place of business (City Code 5-1A-3). Animal pick up is handled by Companion Animal Care & Control (CACC). To report an animal that is contained for animal control, call 911 and specify that the situation is not an emergency. This ensures the call is routed efficiently through the dispatch system to CACC. Companion Animal Care & Control 1480 Helmo Avenue North Oakdale, MN 55128(651) 200-3054 For a complete FAQ, including facility hours, detailed fee information and information on lost/found animals go to companionanimalcontrol.com. Owner Responsibility: Impound, boarding and care fee for reclaimed animals are the responsibility of the owner, paid directly to CACC at the time of reclaim. In addition, the City will seek owner restitution for any applicable service fees paid by the City. 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. ASH INJECTION PROGRAM The City has once again hired a contractor who will offer a discounted rate for injecting eligible ash trees to help protect them from falling victim to Emerald Ash Borer (EAB). If you have ash trees that are worthy of saving, now is the time to get them treated or retreated. For more information, visit andovermn.gov and click on the links “Your Government” “Natural Resources” “EAB,” “2026 Ash Injection Program” IT’S THE ANNUAL ARBOR DAY EVENT “TREE TIME” Free saplings will be dispersed to Andover residents on Saturday, May 9th from 9:00 a.m. to Noon. Visit andovermn. gov/227/Seedlings for more information including event location map, species of trees to be handed out and helpful tips prior to arrival. If you have any questions, contact Kameron with Natural Resources at (763) 767-5137. AndoverToday Page 5 Page 6 AndoverToday HOW HEALTHY IS YOUR HOMES SEPTIC SYSTEM Emptying a septic tank is important because its main purpose is to collect and treat wastewater from your home. Over time, solids and sludge accumulate in the tank, and if it’s not pumped out regularly, it can cause blockages or overflow, which could lead to sewage backups or even system failure. A well-maintained septic system ensures that wastewater is properly processed and filtered, preventing contamination of the environment and potential health hazards. Regular pumping keeps the system functioning efficiently and helps avoid expensive repairs. Here are some reminders to keep your system working properly:• Pumping your septic tank on a routine basis could help to avoid backup into your property causing damage. • The MPCA recommends pumping every 3 years or as recommended by your septic management plan. • Avoid putting anything in your septic system other than human waste or toilet paper. • Do not put food or grease down your drains. • Avoid overusing laundry and dishwasher-this adds extra strain on your septic system. • The toilet is not a garbage can-nothing should be flushed except human waste and toilet paper.• Repair all leaking faucets, toilets and fixtures or change out to low flow water use models to reduce strain on your septic system. Licensed Septic Pumpers can be found on the MPCA or City website. Questions, call the Building Dept. at (763) 755-8700. WATER RESTRICTIONS The City has in place watering restrictions that will allow everyone to water their grass and shrubs and maintain an adequate water system. These restrictions start every year on May 1st and run through August 31st. For more information about the restrictions, please visit the City’s website at andovermn.gov/145/Water-Department. Summer Water Restriction Information - City of Andover Code 10-1-13 Deficiency of Water or call City Hall at (763) 755-5100. 2026 WATER QUALITY REPORT The 2026 Water Quality Report or otherwise known as the Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) is available on the City of Andover website. If you would like a hard copy of the report you can get it by printing it off the website, stopping by City Hall to pick it up or by calling (763) 755-5100 and requesting a copy to be mailed to you. The direct link to the CCR is: andovermn.gov/DocumentCenter/View/9646/2026-MDH-Water-Quality- Consumer-Confidence-Report-for-2025. COMMUNITY GARDEN UPDATE Please review your garden rules before planting. For those that have rented a Garden Plot this year, planting begins May 4th. Weather Permitting. NOTE: If you purchased a plot but do not plant anything in the plot by May 25th, your plot will be offered to others on our waiting list. Happy Planting! IRRIGATION CONTROLLERS: SAVE MONEY AND WATER Water is essential for maintaining a healthy lawn, but watering wisely helps protect our aquifers and save money. Depletion of aquifers is a local concern, and saving money is generally loved by everyone. Residential soil moisture sensors and smart controllers cost a few hundred dollars and can be added to any system. They prevent unnecessary watering, and reduce costs for water, electricity, and pump maintenance. Worst: Clock based irrigation—Waters on a set schedule, regardless of weather or soil conditions. Better: Soil moisture sensor—Overrides scheduled watering when there is enough soil moisture. Best: Weather-based “smart” irrigation controller—Automatically adjusts watering based on recent and predicted rainfall, evapotranspiration, and other weather data. Many systems also offer convenient app-based control. In Minnesota, automated irrigation systems are required to have a bypass moisture sensor such as a soil or rainfall sensor. “Smart” irrigation controllers an optional upgrade. This program is part of water management efforts by the Lower Rum River Watershed Management Organization, a special purpose unit of government made up of Andover, Anoka and Ramsey. LRRWMO.org. OPEN HOCKEY - Weekday Adult Hockey 18+ gloves and helmets are required. Goalies skate for FREE. BASKETBALL - All ages shoot hoops. No full court games, team practices or training equipment allowed. ½ court games allowed if space allows. OPEN SKATE - All ages welcome. Skate rental available for $5 per pair, sizes available youth 8 – adult 13. Skate sharpening 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 especially during the summer months. 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 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. 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. Website: AndoverMN.Gov/ACC • Email: accinfo@andovermn.gov • Main Phone: (763) 755-3238 NORTH SUBURBAN CONCERT BAND 2026 POPS CONCERT AndoverToday Page 7 SUNDAY, MAY 3, 2026 3:00 P.M. COURTYARDS OF ANDOVER 13545 MARTIN ST NWANDOVER, MN northsuburbanconcertband.org 30TH ANNIVERSARY: A CELEBRATION YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS! Summer is on it’s way and our committee is excited to celebrate 30 years of the AFFF with you on Friday, July 10th and Saturday, July 11th! NEW this year for the milestone festival, we are thrilled to welcome a drone show on Friday night at 10:00 p.m., a new polka band, chalk art exhibition, and a TV giveaway! Alongside the full weekend of family- friendly activities, parade, great food, live music and fireworks, there’s something for everyone. Visit the AFFF Facebook page or website at andoverfamilyfunfest.com for registration links to the community booths, parade, Fun Run 5k, baby crawling contest, and bean bag tournament. For more updates and information regarding the AFFF, please follow our Facebook page, Andover Family Fun Fest, and website for updates. ONLINE REGISTRATION ONLYandoverfootball.orgMay 1st - June 12th Grades K-8 ANDOVER’S ANNUAL CITY WIDE GARAGE SALE May 7th - 9th (Thursday – Saturday) Sale hours 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Maps available on the City’s website at andovermn.gov/456/Garage-Sale and at City Hall by May 6th. If you are hosting a sale, please remember to be respectful to your neighbors and most importantly don’t forget to take down your garage sale signs. 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 Page 8 AndoverToday MOSQUITO CONTROL ACTIVITY IS UNDERWAY FOR 2026! Seasonal staff at the Metropolitan Mosquito Control District have begun working throughout the seven-county metro area to reduce the overall number of mosquitoes and protect people from diseases caused by mosquitoes and ticks. Based on weather forecasts and other data, MMCD predicts that 2026 will be an average year with a high number of cattail mosquitoes emerging in early July. Field mosquito technicians will be working in coordination with the entomology lab to determine which areas are the “hot spots” for mosquito activity. Each year the start of the mosquito season depends on snowmelt, rain, air temperatures, and several other factors. This year, seasonal field staff began working April 13th and residents of the seven-county metro area may notice green or white trucks with the MMCD logo or staff on bikes or on foot wearing brightly colored “Public Health Mosquito Control” vests. Helicopter treatments are likely to begin the week of April 20th, but may begin sooner depending on weather. At times MMCD employees may need to cross private property to access and check areas for mosquito larvae. If you have questions about mosquito control activities or concerns about an employee, please call the MMCD front desk at (651) 645-9149 or visit mmcd.org.Rosa M. and Mikki S.Dipping for Cattail Mosquitos