HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-0708 July-AugVolume 29, Issue 4 July/August 2026
ANDOVER TODAYNEWSLETTER
YMCA / Comm. Center GroundsMain
Stage
2 - 3
Pan - Handlers
4 - 5
Hot Dog Eating Contest Sponsored by Beef O'Bradys
6 - 8
Whiskey & Water
Main
Grounds
9:30
Baby Crawling
Contest
Sponsored by Essentials of Life
12 - 8
Community
Booths
1-3 & 4-6
Craig Carlson
Strolling Entertainment
1 - 4
Safety Demo by
Connexus Energy
1:30
Beanbag
Tournament $
2 - 6:30 Silent Auction $
Food Vendors
Friday 5 - 11 PM
Saturday 10 am - 11:30 PM
Lions Beer Tent
Friday 5 - 11 PM
Saturday 12 - 11:30 PM
Saturday 10pm
12 - 2
Craig Ebel &
DyVersa Co.
3 - 4
Divas through the
Decades
5 - 6
Bambi
Alexander
8 - 11:30
Street Dance
“The Law”
Events Schedule
July 10 - 11, 2026
https://andoverfamilyfunfest.com Andover Family Fun Fest
Entertainment TentDINING Tent
SATURDAY 8 am-11:30pm
2:30 - 5:30
Airbrush Tattoo &
Balloon Art
6 - 8
Baron of Bubbles
Andover ElementarY
5k Fun run/walk
Sat:8am*
Kids 1/2 mile fun run
9:15am
*Pre-reg req’d
Parade
Saturday 11:00
Route follows crosstown blvd
from Andover HS to Tower Dr.
Friday 10pm Sunshine park
10 - 9:30
Jump City $
12 - 12:30
National Karate
1 - 2
Brian Richards
Magic Show Sponsored by Connexus Energy
2:30 - 4:30
Jam Hops
Demonstration
2 - 5
Classic Car Show
5 - 5:30
Premier Karate
9 - 3
Chalk Art (by Public Works)
10 - 5
Craft & Gift Show (indoors)
12 - 1:30
Emrgncy Vehicle Display
12 - 3
Empowered Percussion
12:30 - 2:30
Meet & Greets (indoors)
Spiderman & Bat Girl
1 - 3
Raptor Center (indoors)
4 - 6
Puzzle Contest $ (indoors)
Drone show | Fireworks show
Friday 5-11pm
5:00 8:00 Community Booths
5:00 6:15 Battle of the Bands by Bach to Rock (Main Stage & Entertainment Tent)
5:30 6:30 The Big Fun Show (Jump City Entertainment Tent)
5:30 7:30 Caricature Artist (dining tent)
5:30 7:30 Princess Ariel Meet & Greet (outside Dining Tent)
5:00 9:30 Jump City $
7:00 8:00 Todd Anderson as Elvis (Entertainment Tent)
7:00 9:00 Baron of Bubbles (Jump City Entertainment Tent)
8:00 11:00 Street Dance “Rockin’ Hollywoods”
*Sponsored by Andover Football Association*
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
FRIDAY, JULY 3RD
INDEPENDENCE DAY
OBSERVED
Scott SchueCOUNCIL MEMBER’S REPORT
Planning for Andover’s Future: Managing
New Growth Areas and Protecting Existing
InfrastructureThe Andover City Council is actively
examining the city’s long term development
patterns to ensure growth remains responsible,
sustainable, and financially sound. This
spring, that work moved forward on two separate fronts: finalizing environmental
planning for a future growth area known
as the Fields of Andover and evaluating
infrastructure capacity within our existing
Metropolitan Urban Service Area (MUSA) boundary.
The Fields of Andover AUAR: A Roadmap
for Future Growth
The Council recently wrapped up the Alternative Urban Areawide Review (AUAR)
process for the Fields of Andover, which
was officially adopted on June 2, 2026. This
state-regulated environmental planning study
evaluated approximately 808.2 acres located north of Coon Creek, east of Round Lake
Boulevard, and south of 161st Avenue NW.
Rather than signaling a predetermined
direction, the AUAR represented a massive fact finding effort. It gives the Council and
residents a clearer picture of how growth
interacts with water capacity, sewer systems,
stormwater management, and road networks.
Andover continues to experience steady
residential and commercial interest. With
that growth comes increased demand for the
city’s infrastructure. The AUAR allowed the
city to evaluate two development scenarios at once, ensuring future decisions are based on
transparent, data driven analysis rather than
piecemeal project reviews.
The review allowed the city to look at cumulative environmental and utility
impacts proactively, ensuring the city has
solid guidance before considering any future
zoning or development proposals for the
area. A key benefit of this forward-looking planning is that if development is proposed
within this 808-acre study area in the future,
it would be served by a dedicated sanitary
sewer line to handle wastewater needs.
Findings: Long-Term Trunk Water and
Sewer Projects
The AUAR also helped identify why and where major capital investments will be
needed city-wide, especially in our water
and sewer systems. As Andover continues
to evolve, several trunk-level improvements
will eventually be required:• Water System: Additional well capacity, a
future water tower or storage expansion to
maintain pressure and fire-flow standards,
and treatment and distribution line upgrades
in targeted growth areas.• Sewer System: Trunk sewer lines serving
developing areas will eventually approach
capacity; lift station upgrades or expansions
may be required, and coordination with the
Metropolitan Council will be needed to ensure regional capacity aligns with local
growth.
These projects represent significant long-term investments. While the AUAR data provides
the necessary framework for technical cost
estimates and capital planning, the City
Council will continue to discuss project
timing, developer impact fees, and potential funding frameworks into the future.
Addressing Capacity: The Temporary
Residential Pause
While the AUAR successfully established a planning roadmap for the 808-acre Fields of
Andover study area, the City is concurrently
focusing on our existing, built-out suburban
neighborhoods. Within the currently sewered
MUSA boundary, Andover still features several larger unbuilt parcels.
To address potential infrastructure bottlenecks,
the City Council considered an interim
ordinance at its June 16, 2026, meeting to place a temporary pause on certain new residential
land-use applications. It is important to note
that this pause does not apply to the newly
adopted Fields of Andover AUAR study area,
which is planned to be served independently. Instead, it targets the remaining undeveloped
tracts within the existing MUSA boundary.
Planning for Andover’s Future Continued on Page 3
AndoverToday Page 3
Choose a safe location.
Place your grill on a flat, stable surface at least 15 feet away
from your home, garage, deck railings, or overhanging
branches. Grills should never be used indoors or in enclosed
spaces, carbon monoxide buildup is dangerous and invisible.
Check your equipment.
Before each use, inspect your grill for wear and tear. Look for cracks, rust, or loose parts. For gas grills, examine hoses
for leaks or brittleness.
Test for leaks.
Mix equal parts of water and dish soap, then brush it on the
hose and connections. Turn on the gas (without lighting the
grill). If you see bubbles forming, you’ve got a leak that
needs repair before use.
Open the lid before lighting.
Lighting a gas grill with the lid closed can cause gas buildup and a dangerous flare-up.
Turn off the gas first. When you’re done grilling, turn off the gas at the tank before
turning off the burners. This prevents leftover gas from
lingering in the lines.
Charcoal Grill Safety EssentialsUse the right starter.
Only use charcoal starter fluid designed for grilling. Never
use gasoline or other flammable liquids.
Don’t add lighter fluid to hot coals.
This is one of the most common causes of grill-related
injuries. If the coals need a boost, use a chimney starter
instead.
Dispose of ashes safely. Let ashes cool completely, this can take up to 48 hours then
place them in a metal container. Never dump hot ashes in the
trash or on the ground.
Fire Safety While CookingKeep a safe zone.
Create a three-foot “kid and pet-free zone” around the grill.
Curious hands and wagging tails don’t mix with open flames.
Stay close.
A grill should never be left unattended. Fires can flare up in
seconds.
Have tools ready.
Keep a fire extinguisher, a bucket of sand, or a spray bottle
of water nearby. Water is fine for small flare-ups on charcoal grills but never use water on a grease fire.
After the Grill Is Off
Clean the grates.
Built-up grease is a major cause of grill fires. Clean after each use while the grill is still
warm.
Store fuel safely.
Keep propane tanks upright and outdoors. Store charcoal in
a cool, dry place.
When Something Goes Wrong
If a fire gets out of control, step back and call emergency
services immediately. Trying to fight a large grill fire yourself
can be extremely dangerous.
OUTDOOR GRILLING SAFETY
Andover Fire Department
As the region looks toward higher-density frameworks like the Metropolitan Council’s Imagine 2050 plan, this short-term
pause establishes a temporary timeout to allow the city to:
• Verify Density Thresholds: Thoroughly study existing capacity constraints within our localized sewer infrastructure to be confident in the volume and density of homes these
specific parcels can support.
• Protect Taxpayers: Ensure that new neighborhood developments do not outpace or overwhelm the local sewer mains that current residents rely on.
• Align with Long-Term Planning: Update long-term capital
improvement plans to safeguard existing infrastructure while responsibly planning for regional growth guidelines.
Clarity and AccountabilityBy wrapping up the environmental study for the Fields of
Andover and analyzing our existing neighborhood systems,
Andover is ensuring that all potential growth—whether
a new proposal or a new project on an open neighborhood
parcel—remains aligned with infrastructure capacity, financial sustainability, and community expectations.
To review the final adopted maps, environmental analysis,
and the official mitigation plan for this project, visit the City’s
dedicated page at andovermn.gov/546/Alternative-Urban-Areawide-Review-AUAR.
To follow up on whether an interim ordinance or “moratorium”
was adopted by the City Council at its June 16, 2026, meeting,
visit andovermn.gov.
Planning for Andover’s Future Continued from Page 2
Page 4 AndoverToday
ANOKA COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORT
E-BIKES, E-SCOOTERS & MORE: WHAT OUR COMMUNITY NEEDS TO KNOW
Electric-powered personal transportation like e-bikes, e-scooters, motorized bicycles, and e-motos
has become increasingly popular across Minnesota. These devices offer convenience and fun, but
they also come with important safety rules and legal requirements that many families aren’t aware
of. Below is an overview of what residents need to know to stay safe and comply with state law.
Understanding the Different Types of VehiclesNot all electric-powered bikes and scooters are treated the same under Minnesota law. In fact, the type of device you
or your child rides determines where it can be used, what safety gear is required, and whether a license is needed.
E-Scooters
Minnesota defines a motorized foot scooter as a small device with handlebars, powered by an electric or small engine,
that can reach up to 15 mph. Riders must be at least 12 years old, may not ride on sidewalks, and must use headlights and taillights. Helmets are required for anyone under 18. E-Bikes
Electric-assisted bicycles must have pedals, a motor of 750 watts or less, and meet specific safety and speed standards.
Riders must be at least 15, and helmets are required for those under 18. E-bikes may be used anywhere regular bicycles
are allowed.
It’s important to note that modifying an e-bike such as adding switches, altering motors, or using apps to override speed
limits can disqualify it from being considered an electric-assisted bicycle.
Motorized Bicycles
These are not e-bikes. Motorized bicycles may be powered by gas or electric motors, can reach up to 30 mph, and
require a driver’s license or motorized bicycle permit. Riders must be at least 15 and may not use sidewalks. Helmets are required for those under 18. E-Motos (Electric Motorcycles)
High-power electric motorcycles can exceed 50 mph and do not have pedals for human propulsion. Riders must be
at least 16 and hold a motorcycle license or endorsement. They follow the same rules as traditional motorcycles and
cannot operate in parks or on sidewalks. Why This Matters: Real-World Consequences
Minnesota and communities nationwide have seen tragic incidents involving these vehicles. In Hastings, a pedestrian
suffered a permanent brain injury after being struck by a 14-year-old on an e-bike.
Locally, the death of a 15-year-old male in Coon Rapids underscored the risks of riding gas-powered dirt bikes in areas
where they are not allowed. The young man was riding a vehicle classified as a motorcycle requiring registration, licensing, and restricted from sidewalks when he swerved into traffic and was fatally struck. Why So Much Confusion?
Many parents and young riders are unaware of the laws. Retailers often give incorrect information, products are easy to
buy online, and even inexpensive models can reach high speeds. Law enforcement also faces challenges due to limited
resources and the fast-growing number of devices on the roads. How We Can Keep Our Community Safe
• Learn the laws. Knowing whether a device is an e-bike, motorized bicycle, or motorcycle can
prevent accidents and legal issues.
• Talk to your children. Help them understand where they can ride, what safety gear is needed,
and why the rules exist.• Model safe behavior. Use helmets and follow roadway rules.
• Reach out if you’re unsure. For questions or concerns, contact local law enforcement.
The Anoka County Sheriff’s Office continues working to enforce state laws related to e-bikes, e-scooters, motorized bicycles, and other electric-powered vehicles. In addition to enforcement, ACSO is committed to educating riders and families about
these regulations to help prevent injuries and improve safety in our community.
By staying informed and encouraging responsible riding, we can help prevent injuries and protect everyone who shares our roads, trails, and sidewalks.
ARE YOU THINKING ABOUT A NEW HOME PROJECT THIS SUMMER?
The Building Department has construction guides and helpful information on the city’s website to help you with your project. These handouts include information on basement finishes,
residential accessory structures, re-roofing, residing (including how to remove a water meter
radio), swimming pools, additions onto your house or garage, and more. These handouts
are on the City of Andover’s website andovermn.gov/384/ Construction-Guides-Helpful-
Information under the Building Department. The Building Department may be able to assist you with a copy of your survey if one is on file (they are for reference only. A new survey
or location of lot lines and easements may be required). If you have any questions about your upcoming project, please
call the Andover Building Department. If you have any electrical questions please call our electrical inspector Andy.
ANDOVER BUILDING DEPARTMENT ANDOVER ELECTRICAL INSPECTOROffice Hours: M-F 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Office Hours: M-F 7:00 a.m, - 8:30 a.m.
(763) 755-8700 (763) 421-2360
Online Permit Applications available at: Electrical Inspections can also be scheduled online:
andovermn.baselinegov.com northerninspect.com
Email: Building@andovermn.gov
AndoverToday Page 5
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.
Do you have large, bulky items like an appliance, treadmill or mattress that you want to recycle but you don’t have a way to
transport them? The City of Andover has teamed up with Certified Recycling to coordinate a city-wide curbside recycling
event for the collection of the above listed and more. Simply call Certified Recycling at (952) 894-1448 to schedule the
pickup between August 3rd - 14th. Deadline is end of business day August 14th. Advance Payment to Certified Recycling is required. The $25 trip charge fee is being covered by the City of Andover Recycling and is funded by the Anoka County Board of Commissioners and State SCORE. For a list of acceptable items and pricing, visit andovermn.gov/268/Curbside-
Recycling-Pickup-Event. Additional questions, contact Certified Recycling (952) 894-1448. Andover Residents Only.
SAVE THE DATE! CURBSIDE RECYCLING COLLECTION
MONDAY - FRIDAY, AUGUST 3rd - 14th
Call Certified Recycling at (952) 894-1448 to schedule a pickup. All items must be curbside and are paid for directly by the resident.
ANDOVER 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. The next monthly recycling event will take place Saturday, August 8th, from 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Drop o old school supplies at the Anoka County
Field Operations Building or Andover City Hall. For list of accepted items and event information
scan the QR code or call 763-324-3400.
DROP OFF SUPPLIESJULY 6 - JULY 238:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Pick up new-to-you supplies from our reuse event at the Anoka County Field Operations Building.
For more event information scan the QR code.
SCHOOL SUPPLIES EVENTSATURDAY, JULY 2510:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Anoka County Field Operations Building | 1530 Bunker Lake Blvd. NW, Andover
PRIMARY ELECTION
A Primary Election will be held in the City of Andover on Tuesday, August 11, 2026. The polls will be open from 7:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. for the purpose of nominating candidates for federal, state, county, local and judicial offices.
Precinct #1 Hope Lutheran Church
16180 Round Lake Boulevard NW
Precinct #2 Grace Lutheran Church
13655 Round Lake Boulevard NW
Precinct #3 Riverdale Assembly of God Church 3210 Bunker Lake Boulevard NW
Precinct #4 Crooked Lake Elementary School
2939 Bunker Lake Boulevard NW
Precinct #5 Andover Christian Church
16045 Nightingale Street NW
Precinct #6 Transform Church
1657 - 161st Avenue NW
Precinct #7 Andover Community Center
15200 Hanson Boulevard NW
Precinct #8 Andover Community Center 15200 Hanson Boulevard NW
Precinct #9 Bunker Hills Activity Center
550 Bunker Lake Boulevard NW
Precinct #10 Andover Elementary School 14950 Hanson Boulevard NW
If you are unsure of where you vote, you can access the Secretary of State’s website at sos.mn.gov/elections-voting/ to find your correct polling place or call City Hall at (763) 755-5100. For more information about elections, go to the City’s website or
anokacounty.us/elections.
If you have not voted in Andover or have moved, you must first register before voting. A valid driver’s license with your new address will allow you to register and vote. Please take care of this before Election Day. Minnesota State Law requires you to
update your license within 30 days of moving.
Voters who prefer to cast their absentee ballot in person may vote at the city hall of the city in which they reside during regular
office hours. Primary Election – August 11, 2026 In Person Absentee Voting Hours
Monday through Friday, June 26 – August 7 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, August 8 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Monday, August 10 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Voters who wish to vote absentee by mail can download the absentee ballot application any time at anokacountymn.gov/224/
Vote-Early. Voters also can call (763) 324-1300 to have an absentee ballot application sent to them.
MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL FILINGS
Filings for the following offices will open Tuesday, July 14, 2026 at 8:00 a.m. and will close at 5:00 p.m., Tuesday, July
28, 2026:
• Mayor (One seat - Two-year term)
• Council Members (Two seats - Four-year term)
Candidates must be eligible voters and reside in the City of Andover. A $5.00 filing fee shall be paid at the time of filing.
CELEBRATE NIGHT TO UNITE!
TUESDAY, AUGUST 4th
Strengthening neighborhoods. Building connections. Enhancing safety.
Join the Anoka County Sheriff’s Office for Night to Unite, an annual community event in August that brings neighbors
together to promote safety, partnership, and a stronger
community.
Host a Neighborhood Gathering!Neighborhoods across Anoka County are encouraged to host block parties,
cookouts, or small gatherings. Deputies and your local fire department will visit registered events throughout the evening.
To register your event go to anokacountymn.gov/486/Neighborhood-
Watch and click on the Night to Unite link.
Cities served: Andover, Bethel, Columbus, East Bethel,Ham Lake, Linwood, Nowthen and Oak Grove.
Page 6 AndoverToday
PHOTO CONTEST!
Enter our Photo Contest and
showcase your creativity - send us your best summer photos!
Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or
simply enjoy taking pictures, there’s a category for everyone. This is your chance to share your
work, celebrate the beauty around us, and connect with fellow photography enthusiasts.
Contest begins July 1st, visit our website at andovermn.gov/548/Andover-Photo-Contest
to learn more about the contest categories,
submission guidelines, and deadlines. We can’t wait to see the world through your lens!
GOLF SIMULATOR - Summer sale,
save 25% now through the end of
August. Only $30/hr + tax. For more
information and to reserve your time visit
andovermn.gov/532/Simulator.
OPEN HOCKEY - Weekday Adult Hockey 18+ gloves
and helmets are required. Goalies skate for FREE.
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.
ICE SKATING LESSONS - Fall lessons for youth ages 3 -
15 will be held Sunday evenings, October 4th - November 14th
(6 sessions) $102 per skater. Lessons include 30 minutes of
instruction and 30 minutes of optional on-ice practice. Online
registration opens August 6th.
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 $62 per skater. Two
sessions will be offered this fall, starting on October 4th and
November 1st. Online registration opens August 6th.
ACC INDOOR SOCCER PROGRAM - The Fall Indoor
Youth Soccer Program is for youth ages 4 -
9. Program will be held Saturday mornings,
October 3rd – November 14th (6 sessions) $93
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. Online
registration will open August 4th.
acc.finnlyconnect.com/registration/activitylist
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
AndoverToday Page 7
ANDOVER FAMILY FUN SKATE NIGHTS
Join Andover Skate School Director, Ashley and coaches for family fun ice skating nights at the Andover Community
Center. Dress in your PJs and your favorite princess or superhero outfits! Receive tips to improve your skating skills, enjoy
refreshments, music, and prize drawings for youth ages 15 and younger. Fun for the entire family!
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
INCREASING COMMUNITY ACCESS TO HEALTHY FOOD
ACBC STARTS NEW OUTDOOR FOOD LOCKER PICK UP PROGRAM
Shortly after the snow melted this spring, work was underway for the installation of the new Outdoor Temperature Refrigerated
Food Lockers at ACBC Food Shelf.
After more than a year of preparation, the program recently started at ACBC with the goal of providing more community members with food access.
The idea of adding food locker pick up to ACBC programs
came as a result of participant surveys. “One of the barriers our neighbors expressed experiencing was the option to have more flexible, evening, and weekend access – especially for households
who face various barriers when seeking assistance,” ACBC CEO
Stephanie Lehman said.
With the outdoor food locker pick up as an alternative to a monthly in-person food shelf appointment, it makes it easier for people to find food support while still being able to self-select their own food. Participants choose their food items through
an online ordering system and ACBC staff/volunteers pack and stock the lockers for pick up.
“ACBC is excited to be able to create additional opportunities for our community to access food – especially people facing barriers making it hard for them to visit. We’re grateful to the partnerships that not only made it possible to have this innovative program but will also allow us to build capacity by an additional 30%,” Lehman shared, stating “the lockers will
move us in the direction of helping more people experiencing food insecurity.”
ACBC has been providing food, clothing, and resources to residents in Anoka County and surrounding communities since 1971. Information: acbcfoodshelf.org.
Outdoor food lockers at the ACBC Food Shelf