Elected officials, community leaders, and project partners recently gathered in Blaine to celebrate the official start of construction on the Highway 65 reconstruction project. The ceremonial groundbreaking marked an important milestone for the region’s most significant transportation investment.
The project is designed to improve safety, reduce congestion, and increase long-term reliability along the Highway 65 corridor, a critical route for commuters, freight, and local traffic. Once complete, the improvements are expected to provide a smoother and safer travel experience for thousands of drivers each day.
The groundbreaking took place just a week after the Minnesota Department of Transportation held another round of project open houses. MnDOT plans to hold additional project open houses at the start of each construction season.
With construction now underway, residents and travelers can expect to see activity along the corridor as work progresses in phases. The majority of the 2026 construction will take place adjacent to Highway 65. Construction directly impacting Highway 65 will ramp up in 2027 and last through 2030. MnDOT and the City will continue to provide updates throughout the construction process.
Sign up for project updates at BlaineMN.gov/MnDOT65
Understanding Your City Government
How Development Projects Get Approved
As part of the City of Blaine’s Understanding Your City Government series, we are taking a look at how development projects move from an idea to a completed project in the community.
Whether it is a new business, apartment building, restaurant, or commercial development, projects do not happen overnight. Before construction can begin, proposals go through a review process to ensure they meet City requirements and comply with local and state regulations.
It Starts With an Application
Most projects begin with a meeting between the developer and City staff to discuss the proposal, application requirements, timelines, and any issues that may need to be addressed.
Once an application is submitted, City staff reviews the plans and coordinates input from departments such as planning, engineering, public works, fire, and building inspections.
Depending on the project, a neighborhood meeting may also be required to provide information to nearby residents and gather feedback as part of the application process.
When Does the City Council Get Involved?
Not every development project requires approval from the Planning Commission or City Council. Projects that involve requests such as rezoning, land use plan amendments, plats, or conditional use permits must go through a public review process. These applications are reviewed by the Planning Commission, which makes a recommendation to the City Council. The City Council then considers the application and makes the final decision.
Blaine City Hall
10801 Town Square Drive NE Blaine, MN 55449
763-784-6700
Communications@BlaineMN.gov
City Council
MAYOR
Tim Sanders
763-203-3286
TSanders@BlaineMN.gov
WARD 1
Chris Ford
612-494-8275
CFord@BlaineMN.gov
Tom Newland
651-271-3341
TNewland@BlaineMN.gov
WARD 2
Leslie Larson
612-489-9651
LeslieLarson@BlaineMN.gov
Jess Robertson
763-607-2233
JRobertson@BlaineMN.gov
WARD 3
Terra Fleming
612-513-5231
TFleming@BlaineMN.gov
Chris Massoglia
612-524-9447
CMassoglia@BlaineMN.gov
CITY MANAGER
Erik Thorvig
763-785-6120
EThorvig@BlaineMN.gov
Recycling Calendar
Upcoming Meetings
City Council*
July 6 | July 20
August 3 | August 17
7pm | City Hall Council Chambers
City Council Workshops
July 6 | July 13 | July 20
August 3 | August 10 | August 17
5:30pm | Cloverleaf Farms Room
Natural Resources Conservation Board*
July 21 | August 18
7pm | City Hall Council Chambers
Park Board*
July 28 | August 25
7pm | City Hall Council Chambers
Planning Commission*
July 14 | August 12
7pm | City Hall Council Chambers
As meeting frequency may change depending on the need, please check the City’s website for the most current information.
*Meetings can be seen on cable channel 16 and 799. Meeting agendas and live and on demand videos are available at BlaineMN.gov/Agendas
City Directory
Police & Fire
Police (non-emergency)
911
763-785-6168
Fire (non-emergency) ........... 763-786-4436
Public Works After Hours 763-427-1212
City Hall
763-784-6700
Mary Ann Young Center ....... 763-786-9375
Public Works
Building Inspections
City Cable Channel 16
763-785-6165
763-785-6170
763-785-6181
City Clerk 763-785-6122
City Manager
763-785-6120
Communications 763-785-6181
Community Standards
Community Outreach
Economic Development
763-785-6146
763-717-2692
763-785-6180
Engineering 763-785-6172
Finance 763-717-2677
Fire Inspections
763-785-6146
Forestry 763-785-6165
Housing
and distributed to all residents and businesses. Past copies of the City newsletter are available at BlaineMN.gov/Newsletter
How to Vote in the Primary Election
Blaine voters have several options to cast their ballot before the August 11 Primary Election. A new state law allows voters to vote in person at Blaine City Hall beginning July 24 and place their ballot directly into a tabulator, just like they would at their polling place on Election Day.
Voters who want to use the traditional absentee voting process can do so at the Anoka County Elections Office beginning June 29. This option includes completing and sealing an absentee ballot envelope.
If you receive a ballot by mail, you can return it to Blaine City Hall or Anoka County. Ballots dropped off at City Hall are placed in a secure ballot box and delivered to Anoka County for processing.
Regular early voting hours are Monday-Friday from 8AM-4:30PM. Blaine City Hall will also offer special voting hours on Saturday, August 8, from 9AM-3PM.
On Election Day, Tuesday, August 11, all Blaine polling places will be open from 7AM-8PM. Not sure where to vote? Find your polling place, view your sample ballot, and get election information at MNVotes.org
Understanding Your City Government
Continued from Page 1
Other projects that already meet all zoning and land use requirements do not typically require approval from the Planning Commission or City Council. In those cases, the project moves directly into the building permit review process, where staff review the plans to ensure they meet City requirements and applicable codes.
When Do Residents Get Involved?
While commenting on a public hearing notice on social media might feel like a way to voice your opinions about a project, it does not actually get you on the official record. The public hearing for most development projects takes place at the Planning Commission meeting. There, residents can share comments and become part of the official public record on a project. Planning Commission meetings are held on the second Tuesday of the month at 7PM at Blaine City Hall. You can also reach out to City staff and your Councilmembers by email or phone.
What Happens After Approval?
Receiving development approval does not mean construction can begin immediately. Before work starts, developers must obtain the necessary permits and submit detailed construction plans for review. Throughout construction, City inspectors verify that work is being completed according to approved plans and building codes.
Once all required inspections have been completed and approved, the City issues a Certificate of Occupancy, allowing the building to be occupied and used.
Why the Process
Matters
The development review process helps ensure that projects meet City standards and provides opportunities for public input when required. While every project is different, the goal is to support quality development that aligns with the City’s plans and regul ations.
Residents interested in learning more about development proposa ls can view upcoming agendas, attend meetings or watch Planning Commission and City Council meetings live or on demand, at BlaineMN.gov/Agendas
Expanding Access to Lifesaving Naloxone in Anoka County
Anoka County’s Opioid Solutions Initiative (ACOSI) has partnered with local organizations to place nasal naloxone (Narcan) with more than 500 AED units across the county. Naloxone is a safe, easy to use medication that can rapidly reverse an opioid overdose if administered promptly. Because opioid overdose is a leading cause of accidental death, having naloxone available alongside AEDs helps ensure quick access to this lifesaving tool.
If you know of an AED location that does not yet have naloxone and would like to request a free supply, please contact opioids@anokacountymn.gov
ACOSI also encourages individuals to have naloxone on hand. More than 30 naloxone access sites, including most libraries, are available throughout Anoka County where anyone can walk in and pick up free naloxone and fentanyl test strips.
A map and list of locations can be found at FacesOfHopeAnoka.org/ Resources#Pickup
Naloxone is not addictive, cannot be used to get intoxicated, and will not cause harm if given to someone who is not experiencing an opioid overdose. Minnesota state law allows anyone to carry and administer naloxone, making it an important tool for community safety.
Potting Soil Fire Safety
Potted plants may look harmless, but they are not ashtrays. Discarding a cigarette into potting soil can actually trap heat beneath the surface. The soil insulates the lit cigarette, allowing it to smolder unnoticed for hours and, in some cases, reach ignition temperatures. When oxygen becomes available, that hidden heat can quickly turn into open flame.
These fires are especially dangerous when planters are placed near decks, siding, or fences – where flames can easily spread to the home or surrounding structures.
If you smoke, always fully extinguish cigarettes in a sturdy, metal ashtray designed for that purpose. Never place them in plant containers, landscaping, or mulch. For any questions, reach out to the Spring Lake Park-BlaineMounds View Fire Department at 763-767-4003
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Blaine Fireworks
Independence Day Celebration
Saturday, 10pm National Sports Center
Wendy’s Wiggle, Jiggle and Jam!
Performance in the Park
Tuesday, 6pm - Aquatore Park
The Mooners
Concessions by Nautical Bowls
Performance in the Park Thursday, 6pm - Tom Ryan Park
10-18
Target USA Cup
The Largest Youth Soccer Tournament in the World National Sports Center
BlaineMN.gov/USACup
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Will Sings Songs
Performance in the Park Tuesday, 6pm - Aquatore Park
Vinnie Rose
Concessions by Nautical Bowls
Performance in the Park
Thursday, 6pm - Tom Ryan Park
Spellbinding Sky Dancers
Performance in the Park
Tuesday, 6pm - Aquatore Park
Run Lucy Run
Concessions by Nautical Bowls
Performance in the Park
Thursday, 6pm - Tom Ryan Park
20-26
3M Open
Minnesota Event of the Summer TPC Twin Cities
More information and discount tickets for Blaine residents available at BlaineMN.gov/3MOpen
Summer Bucket
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The Bazillions
Performance in the Park Tuesday, 6pm - Aquatore Park
The Mystery Mountain Boys
Concessions by Nautical Bowls
Performance in the Park
Thursday, 6pm - Tom Ryan Park
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Night to Unite
Blaine’s Biggest Community
Building Night of the Year
Tuesday, 6pm - Neighborhood Near You
BlaineMN.gov/N2U
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Bark in the Park
Mark the Start of the “Dog Days” of Summer with the Backyard Band Concessions by Smokin’ J’s BBQ Thursday, 5-7pm - Swanson Dog Park BlaineMN.gov/BarkinthePark
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LP and the 45s
Concessions by Nautical Bowls
Performance in the Park
Thursday, 6pm - Tom Ryan Park
Summer Bucket List
Featuring GB Leighton Saturday, 12-8:30pm - Tom Ryan Park BlaineMN.gov/Oktoberfest
RecConnect Summer 2026
Summer registration is open! Check out all the great program offerings at BlaineParks.com/Register.
Sign up for the RecConnect online at BlaineMN.gov/NotifyMe, and choose News: BlaineParks.
Citizens Academy
This fall you can learn more about the daily operations of the Blaine Safety Services Department at Blaine Citizens Academy. Step into the world of police officers and firefighters and experience firsthand what makes these jobs so unique.
This fast-paced academy includes both classroom and hands-on training in a fun and safe environment.
Led by safety services professionals, academy participants will have the opportunity to put out a live fire, conduct a mock vehicle traffic stop, use specialized equipment for motor vehicle extractions, and conduct simulated building searches.
For more information, visit BlaineMN.gov/CitizensAcademy
QC Dance
All Classes Held at QC Dance Studio, 9967 Ulysses Street NE, Blaine QC Dance strives to provide quality dance instruction and a variety of fun opportunities to learn and demonstrate dance skills while building self-esteem.
Magical Storybook Adventure
ages 0 to 5
Wednesdays, July 8-29
ages 0-3 (w/parent/adult - 9:35-10:10am
ages 2-5 (independent) - 10:10-10:45am
$50 res; $55 nr
More information about Parks and Recreation is available at 763-785-6164 or in the current
Ninja Camp ages 4 to 7
Mondays, August 3-24, 6:30-7:15pm
$50 res; $55 nr
For complete class descriptions, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register.
Tech Academy
All Classes Held at Blaine City Hall Cloverleaf Room B
Tech Academy is an exciting learning environment specializing in technology education (STEM) for children and teens ages 4 to 15. Camps are kid friendly and promote hands on learning experiences with time to experiment to foster creativity.
Extreme Robotics: Robo-Racers ages 8 to 13
Monday-Thursday, July 13-16, 9am-noon
$150 res; $160 nr
Jr. Engineering Games and Gadgets ages 6 to 11
Monday-Thursday, July 20-23, 9am-noon
$150 res; $160 nr
Game Design with Roblox ages 8 to 12
Monday-Thursday, July 27-30, 9am-noon
$160 res; $170 nr
For complete class descriptions, visit BlaineParks.com/Register
Mary Ann Young Center Programs
Looking for ways to stay active, social, and engaged? The Mary Ann Young Center (MAYC) offers a variety of programs and activities for older adults Monday through Friday. Whether you are interested in fitness, educational opportunities, games, social gatherings, or simply connecting with others, there is something for everyone. MAYC also serves lunch on weekdays, providing a welcoming place to enjoy a meal and spend time with friends.
Learn more at BlaineMN.gov/MAYC
Skyhawks Sports Camps
The progression of camps and programs, led by expert staff, are geared toward youth looking for a sport introduction or those who want to refine and master their sport specific skills. Skyhawks sports has proven to be the leader in youth sports since 1979. Skyhawks goes the extra mile to focus on safety and has a long-standing proven safety track record.
The following camps are offered this summer: Flag Football First Down Tots; Basketball; Hoopster Tots; Soccer Tots; Volleyball; Track & Field; Multi-Sport; Mini-Hawk Flag Football; Mini-Hawk T-Ball; Mini-Hawk Basketball; Pickleball; Beginning Golf; Cheerleading, Baseball; Baseball Tots.
For complete details including descriptions, fees, dates, times and locations, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register
Tenicity Tennis
ages 6 to 16
Tenicity is led by Head Coach, Harsh Mankad, a Gopher Hall of Fame inductee, former ATP professional player, and USTA award-winning tennis program leader. All of our coaches are personally trained and certified by Harsh to ensure they effectively teach stroke development and fundamentals in line with Tenicity’s proven developmental system.
For specific details, dates, times, locations and fees, please call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register
Paddleboarding
All Sessions Held at Lakeside Commons Beach, 3020 Lakes Parkway, Blaine, Ages 12 and up
Participants under 18 must have a parent or guardian sign a waiver before class.
Wednesday, July 29 - 6-7:30pm
Wednesday, August 19 - 6-7:30pm
$40 res; $44 nr
For more information, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register
Zumba
All Sessions Held at QC Dance Studio, 9967 Ulysses Street NE, Blaine
Love to dance? Join the party! This specialty course is designed for those just starting their journey to a fit and healthy lifestyle or the older active adult. Zumba fitness is for everyone, all shapes and sizes and just about any age. With Zumba, the fun comes first, and the physical benefits follow. This class will be a fat burning, body shaping, fun workout. Max 12.
Wednesdays, July 8 - 29, 7:15-8pm $40 res; $44 nr
For more information, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register
Fall Softball
All Games Played at Airport Park
The City of Blaine offers fall softball leagues for men’s, women’s, and co-rec teams. Fee includes 12 games, softballs, and umpires. All games are doubleheaders. Registration dates are July 6-31 or until leagues are full. League play begins the week of August 10.
Men’s D (DH) - Mondays, $625
Men’s D (DH) - Wednesdays, $625
Women’s (DH) - Thursdays, $625
CoRec (DH) - Tuesdays, $645
For more information, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register
Summer Days at the Beach
Make the most of summer at Lakeside Commons Beach. This popular Blaine destination features a sandy swimming beach, splash pad, playground, volleyball court, picnic areas, concessions, and kayak and canoe rentals. Whether you are looking to cool off, spend time with family, or enjoy a day outdoors, there is something for everyone.
Beach hours are 10AM to 8PM during the summer season. Blaine residents receive free parking with proof of residency. The beach and boathouse will be staffed until August 23, the swimming area will remain available through Labor Day.
For more information, visit BlaineMN.gov/ LakesideCommons Park
Connect with Your Neighbors
Tuesday, August 4 at Night to Unite
The first Tuesday in August is a night of community building and fun as Blaine celebrates Night to Unite. With more than 100 block parties across the City, there are chances to connect directly with your neighbors. These neighborhood block parties provide an opportunity to meet others who live in your neighborhood, strengthen existing relationships, and connect with city staff and elected officials. Members of the Blaine Police Department, Blaine Public Works, SBM Fire, and the Blaine City Council will be visiting as many block parties as possible to connect with the community. Make sure to register your party with the City to receive planning assistance and a visit during the event.
Register your party at BlaineMN.gov/NighttoUnite
Have Your Say with FlashVote
Want to help shape decisions in Blaine? FlashVote makes it easy.
The City of Blaine uses FlashVote to gather quick feedback from residents on topics that affect the community. From parks and events to city services and future planning efforts, FlashVote surveys give residents an opportunity to share their opinions directly with city leaders.
Participation is free and easy. Surveys are always limited to five questions and take less than a minute to complete. Residents can choose to receive surveys by email, text message, or phone, depending on their preference.
Recent surveys have focused on city communications and overall resident satisfaction. Upcoming surveys will seek feedback on the City’s park system and other important community topics.
One of the best features of FlashVote is how quickly results are shared. Surveys typically remain open for just 48 hours, and once they close, the complete results are made available to everyone who is part of the FlashVote survey panel. Participants can see how their responses compare with others in the community and gain insight into the feedback being shared with city leaders.
Residents from across Blaine have already joined the community panel. If you are not yet signed up, now is a great time to get involved and ensure your voice is heard.
Register today at BlaineMN.gov/FlashVote and be included in the next survey in July.
Summer Algae Growth
As temperatures climb and the sun shines, many of us look to our local waterways to cool off. The same conditions that drive us to the water in summer are the same conditions favored by algae. While algae is considered unsightly to many, most algae is harmless to people, pets, and wildlife.
The most common algae spotted in our waterways is filamentous algae. This algae often appears as bright green, stringy mats near shorelines or floating on the water surface. Filamentous algae is harmless to people, pets, and wildlife, and provides habitat and food to aquatic animals.
Blue-green algae (cyanobacteria), on the other hand, can produce harmful toxins that pose risks to people, pets, and wildlife. Blue-green algae is often described as looking like pea soup or spilled paint. Hot weather combined with lack of wind or rainfall increases the chance of blue-green algae developing. When in doubt, avoid contact with suspicious algae blooms and keep pets out of affected water when algae type is uncertain.
Algae growth can be reduced by limiting fertilizer use, picking up pet waste, reducing soil erosion, planting native vegetation near shorelines and drainage areas, and keeping leaves and grass clippings out of streets and waterways.
For more information, connect with the Coon Creek Watershed District at cooncreekwd.org
Night to Unite Civic Ready Test
Tuesday, August 4
The City of Blaine will conduct a test of the CivicReady notification system on Night to Unite. CivicReady is a service available to Blaine residents to receive emergency notifications from the City. Residents need to sign up to receive notifications and can customize how and where they receive them. Notifications can be received as a phone call, text message, and email. You can pick one notification method or all three. The City does not send weather related alerts, please follow the National Weather Service for those types of notifications. To sign up, visit BlaineMN.gov/CivicReady.
Year-Round, Odd-Even Sprinkling Days, No Sprinkling Between 10am-6pm
The City of Blaine lawn sprinkling ordinance regulates how often residents and businesses can water their yard with City water. Even when Minnesota is not experiencing drought conditions, it is important to conserve water.
• Residents with an even numbered address can water on even number dates. Residents with an odd numbered address can water on odd number dates.
• No sprinkling is allowed between 10AM and 6PM.
For more information, visit BlaineMN.gov/LawnSprinkling
