Question 1

How do you pronounce "Stoesz"?

Accepted Answer

With a name like mine, it’s no surprise people ask how to pronounce it. Though it’s spelled 'Stoesz,' it’s pronounced 'Stace—like face.'

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Question 2

How to vote!

Accepted Answer

Absentee Voting has begun

Absentee Voting by mail: Request an absentee ballot from the Secretary of State’s office online at https://loom.ly/F2kaYpE(https://loom.ly/F2kaYpE?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExbTI3YjJOOFRzR0dQUU9tZwEe0BJQGpZsoxkhlvhKXqvIfC_tKh2BMgup4ZN1LfMInTzE1LIY7MDk367crh4_aem_e1RiKzS5FKxdSe7XO1_OSA)
In-person Absentee Voting will be hosted by Anoka County Elections at the Government Center, located at 2100 3rd Avenue, Suite 160, Anoka, MN. For questions, call Anoka County Elections at 763-324-1300.
**Please note: In 2025, City Hall will not be issuing or accepting returned absentee ballots.
Learn more about the 2025 Election on the City website at https://loom.ly/YBWVFgI(https://loom.ly/YBWVFgI?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExbTI3YjJOOFRzR0dQUU9tZwEeG1cku2BBwRE-NCZXMRFPA6RcF3uJmynRLwxV4QUo5stNqQ5ImE_OsAbqgfw_aem_UAH5_L87NWzC-IeiXkrFmQ)

Question 3

What did Dale Stoesz submit to the North Metro TV page I am curious what he submitted?

Accepted Answer

•	About the Candidate:
Raised on a small farm in Mountain Lake, Dale Stoesz learned early the value of hard work, resourcefulness, and conservative stewardship. Since 2012, he has served Lino Lakes through 14 years of civic leadership—including City Council (2012–2015, 2018–present) and Planning & Zoning (2016–2017).
Dale holds a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from the University of Minnesota–Mankato and a master’s in Organizational Leadership from Bethel University. His career spans IT roles in banking and his current position as a purchasing administrator for a family-run manufacturing business, where he manages supply chains and vendor relationships.
From 2023 to 2025, Dale worked as a Direct Support Professional, assisting non-verbal individuals with profound disabilities—an experience that deepened his commitment to compassionate care and mental health advocacy.
He serves as Vice-Chair of North Metro TV and as a member of the Statewide Emergency Communication Board, helping guide Minnesota’s public safety communications.
As a longtime resident and parent of Centennial graduates, Dale is ready to serve from day one—with proven leadership and a deep respect for Lino Lakes.

•	Important Issues:
I envision a community where families feel safe, infrastructure is modern and reliable, and growth reflects long-term values. Public safety remains my top priority, backed by budget support and strong leadership from Police Chief Curt Boehme and Fire Chief Dan L’Allier.
I oppose using taxpayer funds for a municipal cannabis store. Legalization is a state issue—our city should stay focused on core services, not retail ventures.
I support responsible development that aligns with our comprehensive plan, protects housing quality, and preserves local control.
Broadband choice matters. I’m working to expand fiber-optic access and reduce reliance on single-provider agreements that limit competition.
Our budget reflects essential services: public safety, infrastructure, clean water, and community development. With over $32 million invested in a new water treatment plant, we’re building a resilient future.
Lino Lakes deserves leadership rooted in stewardship, transparency, and action.

Goals if Elected:
• Deliver Maximum Value from Tax Dollars
I’ll continue advocating for responsible budgeting that reflects community priorities.
• Complete the Water Treatment Plant
I’ll help ensure this $32 million investment provides clean, safe water for generations.
• Strengthen Public Safety
I support our updated model led by Chief Boehme, Chief L’Allier, and Administrator Anderson. I’ll work to separate fire and police operations for better service.
• Expand Broadband Choice
I’ll use city authority to bring fiber-optic providers to Lino Lakes and end single-provider restrictions.
• Lead with Integrity and Transparency
I’ll protect taxpayer interests and keep government focused on core services.
• Enhance Tower Park
I’ll support expanded amenities to make it more accessible and family-friendly.
• Maintain City Trails
I’ll ensure our trails remain safe and well-maintained.
• Support Business Growth
I’ll champion development that strengthens our economy and reflects our city’s long-term vision.

Question 4

I missed the Quad Press voters' guide - What did Dale submit for the voters' guide?

Accepted Answer

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Name: Dale Stoesz - stoesz.com
City of residence: Lino Lakes
Occupation: Purchase Administrator for a family-run manufacturing business with under 100 employees
List 3 most recent civic involvement roles:
·         Lino Lakes City Council (2012-2015, 2018-Current), Planning and Zoning (2016-2017) for a total of 14 years of civic involvement.
·         North Metro TV Vice-Chair – provides public access content for school sports, elections, and local news.
·         Statewide Emergency Communication Board (SECB) – provides leadership to set the vision, priorities, and technical roadmap for interoperable public safety communications, alerts, and warnings across the state.
QUESTIONS
Why do you want to serve on the City Council?
My desire to serve on the Lino Lakes City Council today is rooted in the same values that inspired me in 2012. I want to help shape a city that future generations are proud to inherit—and where lifelong residents feel the strength of what we’ve built together. That means fostering a safe, vibrant community with modern infrastructure, abundant parks and trails, and fiscally responsible tax policies that hold real value for residents.
Today, we face pressure from outside influences seeking to reshape our city to fit their vision. But Lino Lakes should be shaped by the people who live here. While we must operate within federal, state, and Met Council regulations, our city charter gives us meaningful authority to make decisions that reflect our community’s values. Let’s use that authority to ensure Lino Lakes remains a city built by its citizens.
What are your top three priorities for the city?
I support our updated public safety model led by Chief Boehm, Chief L’Allier, and City Administrator Anderson. Public safety is the largest budget item, and I remain committed to keeping it a priority. I don’t believe a city-run cannabis storefront aligns with our community values. Cannabis is a statewide issue, and we should separate regulation and enforcement from retail operations.
We’re investing in a water treatment plant to ensure clean water for generations. I was the only council member to oppose the $48 stormwater fee, which I view as a hidden tax not reflected in the Truth-in-Taxation Notice. This is one example of how I stay transparent and advocate for responsible budgeting that protects residents.
While developers may benefit from projects without living here, growth should reflect the long-term vision of Lino Lakes residents. I support landowner rights and believe development must align with our city’s comprehensive plan.

If elected, how would you involve the public in making major decisions?
In The Speed of Trust, Stephen M.R. Covey reminds us that trust is painstakingly built over time yet can vanish in a moment—underscoring the need for leaders to lead with consistency, transparency, and integrity. Transparency is essential to building and maintaining trust, especially in local government. 
I believe residents deserve clear, consistent communication about what’s happening in our city—and I’ve made that a priority. Social media has been a key tool in that effort. Since July 28, 2015, I’ve maintained the page “Lino Lakes City Happenings Dale Stoesz,” on Facebook which has received over 75,000 views in the past 90 days. I also make myself accessible by listing my cell number on the official Lino Lakes city page, because open communication matters.

Question 5

Where did you grow up?

Accepted Answer

I spent my first 18 years in Mountain Lake, Minnesota—a place my mom still calls home. Life on our family farm meant early mornings and hands-on work, tending to corn, soybeans, and a few head of cattle. I started my education at Mountain Lake Christian School and later graduated from Mountain Lake High School, shaped by a community that valued faith, hard work, and resilience.

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Question 6

What did I learn while working in a Lino Lakes group home?

Accepted Answer

Between 2023 and 2025, I worked part-time as a Direct Support Professional at a remarkable organization in Lino Lakes. This role gave me the opportunity to serve some of the most vulnerable members of our community.

I supported four non-verbal male individuals who required full assistance with daily living activities—including preparing meals, eating, personal hygiene, dressing, and household care. Their cognitive abilities were extremely limited, and they relied entirely on others for their well-being.

This experience deepened my understanding of mental health challenges within our community and highlighted the critical importance of compassionate care for those in greatest need—even in places like Lino Lakes.

Question 7

Are you a Republican or Democrat?

Accepted Answer

While this is a nonpartisan role, I lead with a foundation of thoughtful, strategic conservative values that reflect who I am at my core. These principles guide my decisions and my vision for Lino Lakes. I also believe that leadership is personal—so I invite you to reach out, get to know me, and see firsthand what drives my commitment to this community. I think you’ll find it speaks for itself.

Question 8

What was your first job?

Accepted Answer

I grew up a small-town kid and spent time working on a dairy farm at the base of the Mountain Lake mountain, earning $5 an hour. That’s where I learned the true meaning of hard work, the value of a good pair of farming pliers, and just how much you can fix with a piece of wire and duct tape. I helped milk over 80 cows, loaded silos, and fed calves—hands-on work that taught me grit, responsibility, and the kind of skills you only pick up on a farm.

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Question 9

What church do you attend?

Accepted Answer

We attend The North Church (https://thenorthchurch.com/)in Mounds View where we volunteer and are involved in a Lino Lakes small group and are members.

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Question 10

Why are you so transparent?

Accepted Answer

Transparency and consistency come naturally when the truth remains unchanged—there’s no need to revise the story when you're committed to honesty.

Question 11

Wait - do I see two?

Accepted Answer

Nope—I grew up as a twin, and it just is what it is. Everyone should have someone who looks just like them and says, “Wow, that guy’s annoying,” knowing full well they’re basically the same. It’s a humbling and hilarious experience. Ugh.

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Question 12

Where do I volunteer?

Accepted Answer

I’ve been honored to support our church’s disability ministry and currently volunteer with Lyngblomsten, where I help by driving the bus and providing technical support. It’s a joy to serve in ways that connect and empower others.

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Question 13

I want to support Dale Stoesz for Lino Lakes how can I help?

Accepted Answer

Thank you for your support of Dale Stoesz for Lino Lakes!

There are several great ways you can help spread the word:
• Host a yard sign: Just send me your address, and I’ll deliver one to you—free of charge. Signs will go up starting 30 days before the November 4 election.
• Introduce me to your neighbors: Consider hosting a small gathering or neighborhood event. I’d love the chance to connect and listen.
• Contribute to the campaign: Every donation helps us reach more residents and keep our message strong.

I’m truly grateful for the incredible team standing with me. Your support means the world.

Question 14

How much do Council Members get paid?

Accepted Answer

Pursuant   to M.S. § 415. 11 and Per City Code Chapter 203 salary of Councilmember is $9,497 annually.  Link to resolution. (https://linolakes.us/DocumentCenter/View/1724/Ordinance-No-03-23-Amending-Chapter-203-of-the-Lino-Lakes-City-Code-by-Adjusting-the-Salaries-of-the-Mayor-and-Councilmembers-PDF)

Do I still have to pay the government? Yes. Here's how it breaks down:

Income Tax:
Estimated 15% on $9,497 income = $1,424

Property Tax:
I pay $5,479.06 out of pocket

Water & Sewer Bill:
Estimated at $600

Storm Water Fee:
$48/year, even though I voted against it

Travel to City Hall:
Approx. 72 miles total, reimbursed at $0.70/mile = $50.40

I don't do it for money but after paying government I earn: $1,895.54

Still, I’m committed to serving my community. My heart is in making this city a place my kids will be proud to live in.

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Updated on September 8, 2025, this resolution was approved for 2026-2027 term.

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Question 15

How do I see the North Metro TV interview?

Accepted Answer

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ClqcbLBwvg

Question 16

What is North Metro TV?

Accepted Answer

I have been in leadership, including chair and vice chair for more than 6 years with North Metro TV since 2012.

North Metro TV has two meetings monthly that I attend. Chances if you are seeing some local news story or content you have seen some of the great content at North Metro TV.

Check out some of the content.(https://northmetrotv.com/) You may even see a council member forum being recorded there shortly.

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Question 17

What does the board of the North Metro TV look like?

Accepted Answer

The current commission found here. (https://northmetrotv.com/cable-commission/meet-the-commission/)

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Question 18

How does North Metro TV get funded?

Accepted Answer

You may for it!

It really is a tax, but it is hidden as a franchise fee. You see the bill in your Xfinity bill. About $100 per house per year. I am on the board to make sure the funds you have entrusted us with are used responsibly.

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Question 19

What is the SECB Board that Dale votes on?

Accepted Answer

The Statewide Emergency Communications Board provides leadership to set the vision, priorities, and technical roadmap for interoperable public safety communications, alerts, and warnings across the state.

Mission The Board’s mission is to enable emergency responders and citizens to communicate easily and respond immediately in critical emergency situations by providing reliable, robust systems for interoperable communications across counties, state, federal, and tribal regions.

Vision The Board’s vision is to accomplish the safety of Minnesota’s emergency responders, citizens, and visitors through state-of-the-art interoperable public safety communications systems.

Priorities

• Ensure advances in technology are implemented to enhance the ability for all residents to call for help.
 • Provide confidence that responders in every corner of the state can communicate with each other during an emergency.
 • Enable all counties to effectively alert and warn residents and visitors of impending danger.
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Question 20

So you are on the SECB board - who else is on this board?

Accepted Answer

I fill the position title of "League of Minnesota Cities Ten-County Metro"

I have equal vote to the following roles:
 • Commissioner of Public Safety
 • Association of Minnesota Counties - Greater MN
 • Minnesota State Fire Chiefs Association - Metro
 • Commissioner of Transportation
 • State Chief Information Officer
 • Commissioner of Natural Resources
 • Chief of the Minnesota State Patrol
 • Chair of the Metropolitan Council
 • League of Minnesota Cities Ten-County Metro
 • League of Minnesota Cities Greater Minnesota
 • Association of Minnesota Counties - Metro
 • Minnesota Sheriffs Assoc: Ten-County Metro
 • Minnesota Sheriffs Assoc: Greater Minnesota
 • Minnesota Chiefs of Police Association - Metro
 • Minnesota Chiefs of Police Association - Greater MN
 • Minnesota State Fire Chiefs Association - Greater MN
 • Minnesota Ambulance Assoc. - Metro
 • Minnesota Ambulance Assoc. - Greater Minnesota
 • Chair, Regional Emergency Services Board - Metro
 • Representative, Greater MN

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Question 21

So does the SECB board manage the 911 fees for the entire state?

Accepted Answer

Per Minn. Statute. 403.11, ​ subd. 1 Emergency telecommunications service fee; account. (a) Each customer of a wireless or wire-line switched or packet-based telecommunications service provider connected to the public switch network that furnishes service capable of originating a 911 emergency telephone call is assessed a fee.

The law is here. (https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/403.11)

The full explanation of all the fees can be found here. (https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/ecn/911-program/service-provider-and-telephone-fees)

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Question 22

What is ARMER?

Accepted Answer

SECB manages the ARMER system:

Allied Radio Matrix for Emergency Response (ARMER)
ARMER was first built in the Twin Cities in 2004, then moved to St. Cloud and Rochester and has since migrated throughout the rest of Minnesota. ARMER currently serves as the primary communications tool for the majority of state, county and local public safety entities in Minnesota.

The Minnesota Department of Transportation owns the core infrastructure, providing the ARMER backbone and 95 percent mobile coverage. Many local units of government own local enhancements providing improved local and in-building coverage.

Participation
Participation on the ARMER radio system is open to all public safety entities based in Minnesota as well as city, county, state, federal and tribal governments.

Formal ARMER Participation may be in the form of:

Full Participation Plan
Limited Participation Plan
Interoperability Participation Plan

Plan Types
Full Participation Plan 
The Full Participation Plan entities are fully integrated into the ARMER backbone and use the ARMER radio system for primary voice communications.

For example: An entity such as a county or city with its own Public Safety Answering Point that primary dispatches its law, fire and/or emergency medical services via ARMER through a fully integrated console or a control station.

Limited Participation Plan
Limited Participation Plans are generally a temporary solution as an entity migrates from its legacy radio system to a Full Participation Plan. The primary voice communications of Limited Participation Plan entities are integrated with the ARMER system via patches, audio gateways or other means.

For example: An entity such as a county or city with its own Public Safety Answering Point that primarily dispatches its law, fire and/or emergency medical services via a legacy (non-ARMER) radio system, but is integrated with ARMER by way of a patch or via a temporarily-installed control station.

Interoperability Participation
Interoperability Participation Plan entities obtain access to the ARMER system via subscriber equipment, for purposes of interoperability. However, they do not use the ARMER system as the entity's primary voice communication system. Interoperability participants may be authorized to maintain and operate subscriber equipment programmed to talkgroups in accordance with the standards adopted by the Statewide Emergency Communications Board.

Examples:

A federal law enforcement agency working in Minnesota
A fire department in a neighboring state that is a mutual aid responder to Minnesota
The State Patrol of a neighboring state that may provide mutual aid to Minnesota

Participation Plan Amendments
Participation Plans need amending from time to time and such amendments must be approved by the Statewide Emergency Communications Board.  A common reason to amend a participation plan is when seeking additional radio or talkgroup IDs.  While there is no amendment prescribed form, minimum expectations have been established. Providing the requested information as part of the amendment initial request will help speed your amendment along.

More information here. (https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/ecn/networks/armer)

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Question 23

How did you get to be acting mayor?

Accepted Answer

For over two years, I have been unanimously elected to serve as acting mayor, a role in which I preside over meetings whenever the mayor is unavailable.

Question 24

What is the role of city administrators and what have they taught you?

Accepted Answer

City administrators are the glue that hold the city leadership together. I have had the great experience of working under and being mentored by many city administrators along the way. Starting with Jeff Karlson, Sarah Cotton, David Pecchia, and now Karen Anderson.

Question 25

So, who’s our Mayor right now, and who’s on the City Council? How long does each person serve?

Accepted Answer

In Lino Lakes,(https://linolakes.us/165/City-Council-Members) the Mayor is elected for a two-year term, and Council members serve four-year terms.

The mayor serves a two-year term; council members serve four-year terms.  Terms are staggered, with elections taking place every two years. Pursuant to City Charter, Section 4.01: A regular municipal election shall be held on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November of each odd numbered year commencing in 1983 at such places as the City Council shall designate.

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Question 26

How do I watch the city council meetings?

Accepted Answer

You can watch on North Metro TV.(https://trms.northmetrotv.com/internetchannel/?site=9)

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Question 27

What is the League of Minnesota Cities?

Accepted Answer

The League of Minnesota Cities is a membership association dedicated to promoting excellence in local government. The League, governed by a Board of Directors consisting of local elected and appointed city officials, serves its more than 800 member cities through advocacy, education and training, policy development, risk management, and other services.

Their mission
The League of Minnesota Cities promotes excellence in local government through effective advocacy, expert analysis, and trusted guidance for all Minnesota cities.

Their vision
We envision a future for Minnesota and the League where: All cities are thriving, taking advantage of new opportunities, and successfully meeting ongoing challenges. The League continues to provide premier service to its members, and is recognized as the trusted, authoritative, and unified voice on issues affecting cities.

They provide insurance, policy guidance, investment tools, and they lobby at the state of Minnesota on behalf of Lino Lakes.

They also have annual events, and I try to go to them every year. The most recent one was in July in Duluth where I learned about the policies that affect Lino Lakes.

Question 28

How much cash does the city of Lino Lakes have?

Accepted Answer

$52,475,356
Our city has multiple funds and you can see the balances below. It is the reason we have a high bond level. Banks give us really good interest rates when we ask for money for large projects.

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Question 29

How do I find out about projects going on in Lino Lakes?

Accepted Answer

The city currently maintains this page and is a good resource. (https://linolakes.us/552/Development-Projects)

Question 30

Roles of Mayor & Council, City Administrator & Department Heads, and City Employees compare?

Accepted Answer

MAYOR & COUNCIL
The Mayor and Council Members are responsible for developing and communicating the organization's mission, vision, and values, which serve as the foundation for the culture. They also need to ensure that their own behavior aligns with these values and that they model the behaviors they expect from others.

CITY ADMINISTRATOR AND DEPARTMENT HEADS
The City Administrator and Department Heads are crucial in translating the vision and values into daily practice. They are responsible for ensuring that their teams understand and adhere to the organization's culture, and they need to be active participants in shaping the culture within their own teams.

EMPLOYEES
While Elected Officials and City Administrator play a primary role, all employees contribute to the culture through their interactions and behaviors. They are responsible for upholding the organization's values, respecting their colleagues, and contributing to a positive work environment.

Question 31

What is the current budget?

Accepted Answer

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Question 32

How can I see the current agenda and minutes to council meetings?

Accepted Answer

We just moved to a more modern site called civic clerk system and you can see the current agenda and minutes here.(https://linolakesmn.portal.civicclerk.com/)

We also have a document management system (kinda obsolete) called LaserFiche (https://miweblink.metro-inet.us/llpublic/welcome.aspx?cr=1)and you can find all the documents there.(https://miweblink.metro-inet.us/llpublic/welcome.aspx?cr=1)

Question 33

How Property Taxes Work in Minnesota?

Accepted Answer

🏡 How Property Taxes Work in Minnesota
Ever wonder how your property tax bill is calculated—and where that money goes? Minnesota’s property tax system helps fund vital services like schools, cities, counties, and townships. In 2023 alone, local governments will collect over $11 billion to keep communities running strong.
Here’s the breakdown:
 • Assessment & Classification: Local assessors estimate your property’s market value and assign a class (like residential or commercial), which affects your tax rate.
 • Tax Capacity: Your property’s value is multiplied by a class rate to determine its “tax capacity.”
 • Levy Setting: Cities subtract non-tax revenues (like state aid) from their budgets to set the annual levy.
 • Tax Rate Calculation: Counties divide the levy by the city’s total taxable capacity to determine the local tax rate.
 • Your Tax Bill: Multiply your property’s tax capacity by the total local rate. Voter-approved levies (like school referenda) are based on market value.
The state also collects taxes on commercial and seasonal properties. Credits and refunds—like the Homestead Exclusion and circuit breaker programs—can reduce your final bill.

https://www.lmc.org/resources/property-taxation-101/

Question 34

How does Lino Lakes taxes compare to other cities in Minnesota - Property Tax Calculator?

Accepted Answer

The Property Tax Calculator is an interactive tool that allows users to compare the property tax data by year, city, regions, and population:

• Data on homestead property taxes is available for the last five years.
 • Users can compare multiple years and property values.
 • Cities can be selected by name, region or population.
If you need additional data, contact Rachel Walker — see “Your LMC Resource” for contact information.

How to use the Property Tax Calculator:
 • To add a city, double click on the city name, or select the city name and click the add button.
 • To select cities by region:
 • Select the region by either clicking on the map or selecting the region from the list.
 • Select the population range and then click the add button.
 • Cities meeting the criteria you have selected will be added to the list.

Go here to launch the Property Tax Calculator (https://www.lmc.org/resources/property-tax-calculator/)

Question 35

Further information on taxes!

Accepted Answer

This summer, I had the opportunity to attend a city conference in Duluth, MN. One of the standout sessions was led by Kelly Horn, Interim Finance Director at Ehlers. Her presentation offered a clear and insightful look at how property taxes work—well worth checking out if you're curious about where your tax dollars go and how they're calculated.

Question 36

What is the Wilkerson Waters project?

Accepted Answer

Wilkerson Waters project is a project that I am watching. It is still in preliminary plans but I think it will be good for our community. It will put density in an area that is close to the freeway but I am still watching and learning.

You can see this and other developments here. (https://linolakes.us/552/Development-Projects)

Question 37

What is going on with the Northwest Main area?

Accepted Answer

Reitering many of the things on the Mapping Northwest website:(https://mappingnwmain.com/) https://mappingnwmain.com/

Planning for our future: As Lino Lakes continues to attract new investments and development opportunities, the city must plan for future growth. That includes meeting increased demand for housing, infrastructure, and city services as well as the requirements set by the Metropolitan Council (Met Council), the regional planning agency that helps guide development across the seven-county metro.

A guiding vision: Lino Lakes follows the City’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan that outlines a long-term vision for responsible growth and development. This legally required document, which has been approved by the Metropolitan Council, helps ensure thoughtful decision-making and good stewardship of public resources as the community evolves.

Master planning process: In response to multiple development proposals for 982-acres of land in the northwestern quadrant of the city and based on the recommendation of the 2040 Comp Plan to complete a master plan for this corridor, the City Council approved a one-year moratorium to undertake a planning process. This process included listening to input from residents, key stakeholders and other local governments and agencies and creating a detailed master plan for this area that will help guide development over the next 30+ years.

Planning with purpose: The most critical part of this process was creation of potential development scenarios and review of their associated environmental impacts.
Ensuring responsible growth: An Alternative Urban Areawide Review (AUAR) evaluated potential environmental impacts of these development scenarios and identified required steps developers will need to take to mitigate impacts to wildlife, traffic, noise, groundwater, and other factors for each studied scenario.

Completing an important step: After a year refining potential development scenarios with input from residents, experts and stakeholders, a 572-page AUAR report is complete.
Shaped by public input: The City of Lino Lakes listened carefully to resident input throughout this process. The result is a proposed master plan for this area that balances new growth with environmental protection, meets all local, county, and state requirements, and positions the City to continue offering residents a valued quality of life.

Next: The City Council approved the proposed master plan area based on the preferred development scenario resulting from resident and expert input.
This process has fulfilled all city, county, and state guidelines and procedures for creating a development master plan. A master plan will allow the city to confidently guide proposed developments to meet the needs of future generations.

What guidelines does the master plan for land development set?
A master plan establishes guidelines for:
 • Where different types of property and residential densities can be sited within a study area.
 • Street, bicycle, and pedestrian routes.
 • Parks and greenways.
 • Surface water drainage.
 • Municipal utilities.
The guidelines do not prescribe the locations of specific businesses or homes – only what types of development can occur on the land. Developers are required to follow the framework and mitigation strategies outlined in the master plan.

What are the city’s goals for the Lino Lakes Main Street Master Plan?
Lino Lakes offers natural beauty with convenient access to urban amenities. Known for its lakes, parks, and wildlife, Lino Lakes is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking quiet and spacious living.

The master planning process for the 962-acres of land in the northwest quadrant of the city was initiated to go above and beyond traditional pre-development processes to guarantee potential concerns were heard and addressed.

The end goal of this process was to create a master plan for the area to serve as a set of development guidelines that balance private property rights, resident priorities, and regional requirements—positioning Lino Lakes for thoughtful, sustainable growth over the next 30+ years.

How does the draft master plan differ from guidelines already outlined in the City’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan?
Though the City’s 2040 Comp Plan provides a high-level look for development across the city, the draft Lino Lakes Main Street Master Plan provides a more detailed set of guidelines for a specific area.

The proposed draft master plan:
 • Was developed and refined based on resident input, prioritizing green space and changing locations of commercial/industrial uses within the 962-acre area.
 • Adds additional street connections between higher-density housing and commercial properties located on the westernmost side of the study area near the intersection of Main Street and Sunset Ave., rather than having traffic limited to the edge of the study area along the Main Street corridor.
 • Moves lower-density housing to the eastern side of the study area adjacent to existing low-density housing.
 • Establishes a new transportation framework with six street corridors to improve walkability and create passive recreational enjoyment areas.
 • Expands the parks and trails system by incorporating the county system to create a cohesive recreational network.
 • Identifies possible road improvements necessary to address traffic demands.
 • Modifies municipal utility plans to match routing and sizing, ensuring efficient and orderly growth and development over the next 30+ years.
 • Guides development over the next 30+ years.

Why was a master plan for this area developed?
The City’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan, approved by the Metropolitan Council, identifies the intersection of Sunset and Main Street as a key gateway into the community and recommends that a master plan for the corridor between Sunset Avenue and Main Street be completed. Development proposals in this area covering roughly 400 of the 962 acres raised questions about how development could impact the environment, water and sewer systems, traffic, and community identity.
The master plan will serve as a more detailed guide for future development than the Comp Plan. The larger scale planning effort taken to create the master plan allows for a more comprehensive approach to address land use, transportation, environmental resources, parks and open space, surface water management, and sewer and water utility issues.
The City Council approved a one-year moratorium to provide the necessary time to study the area and work towards the preparation of the master plan. The study process behind the master plan took place during that one-year period.

What is the history of the 962-acre area of land?
The majority of the study area is currently agricultural land with rural residential uses along the north, east, and south sides, and low- to medium-density housing in the southwest corner.

How was the draft Lino Lakes Main Street Master Plan developed?
The process of developing the master plan for land in the northwest quadrant of the City included:
 • Screening the study area
 • Stakeholder engagement
 • Resident, agency, and developer input
 • Creation and refinement of development scenarios
 • Community meetings
 • A voluntarily conducted Alternative Urban Areawide Review (AUAR)
 • Feedback from the Environmental Board and Planning & Zoning Board
 • A public hearing on the proposed master plan
Once completed, staff presented the preferred development scenario—including mitigation strategies identified in the AUAR—for City Council review and consideration.

Does the master plan change current zoning guidance?
No. The Master Plan does not change current zoning requirements.

Are there themes or main thoughts/concerns being shared by residents?
Some key themes expressed by residents include:
 • Prioritizing parks, green space, trails, and connectivity
 • Preserving natural resources
 • Preference for scenario design/layout
 • 
Concerns expressed included:
 • Density discussions (levels and placement)
 • Community impacts (school system, traffic patterns, taxes)
 • Traffic and vehicle safety
 • Environmental and property impacts
These topics were reviewed as part of the AUAR process, which includes associated mitigation measures to be taken by developers.

How did the City incorporate input from residents into the draft master plan?
Feedback from residents helped the City narrow four initial development scenarios down to one. This scenario was further refined to incorporate feedback heard from residents before being evaluated by the AUAR process alongside the existing Comprehensive Plan guidelines. The Comprehensive Plan scenario was included in the AUAR to provide a baseline to compare the new development scenario against.

Throughout this process, the City kept residents informed and engaged through:
 • Community Open Houses: Three open houses were held in Spring 2025 for public review and feedback on four proposed development scenarios. Approximately 236 residents attended.
 • Meetings With Residents: City officials met individually with residents near or adjacent to the study area to gather specific feedback and concerns. This was offered to all property owners within the study area.
 • Meetings With Other Jurisdictions: Officials met with leaders from Rice Creek Watershed, Anoka County, and the Centennial and Forest Lake school districts.
 • Meetings With Interested Developers: Officials engaged with developers who had submitted or expressed interest in proposals for the study area.
 • Dedicated Project Website: The City launched http://mappingNWmain.com as an informational hub for the planning process. It includes FAQs, community meeting records, and detailed layouts of proposed scenarios.
 • Digital And Print Updates: Regular updates were shared via social media, local media, and the quarterly newsletter. Over 450 residences received mailed notices about open houses, the AUAR public comment period, and the master plan public hearing. Notices were also published in the Quad Community Press.

Why is the city allowing developer(s) to purchase land and build in the Mapping NW Main area?
The city does not control who private owners sell to or which properties developers seek to purchase. The City’s role is to review development plans to ensure they meet the requirements of the established land use plan. If a proposed development plan complies, it may proceed; if not, it must be adjusted to comply.

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Question 38

What if I don't win the election on November 4?

Accepted Answer

This has always been a funny video to me.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wzjRwNUQDRU