Anoka County Fair is July 26-31
The board noted this year’s Anoka County Fair runs July 26 to 31. In addition to all its regular offerings, the fair is a fantastic opportunity to connect with neighbors and learn about the programs and initiatives of Anoka County government. The county has a booth at the fair that’s staffed by various employees from different county departments, so on any given day visitors can learn what Anoka County has to offer. To watch the video on this item, click HERE. For more information on the fair, click HERE.
County Likely to Add two Social Worker Positions
The County’s Community Social Services and Behavioral Health Department applied for $728,000 in grant funding from the Community Living Infrastructure Grant. The board supported this action. If awarded, the county plans to use the money to fully fund two full-time housing resource specialist positions. These positions would help with disseminating up-to-date information on affordable housing that is available, provide screening of individuals and families for housing team support services, coordinate various voucher programs, and more. For more information on this item, click HERE. To watch the video, click HERE.
Sight Distance to be Improved on Kettle River Blvd.
Anoka County, in partnership with the City of Columbus, acquired right-of-way to conduct tree and brush removal to improve the intersection sight distance in the northeast quadrant of the intersection of Kettle River Boulevard and Camp 3 Road NE. This is a short-term fix. A long-term solution involves geometric traffic enhancements at the intersection of Kettle River Boulevard and Lake Drive, with the closure of Camp 3 Road between Kettle River Boulevard and Lake Drive. For more information on this item, click HERE.
Roundabout Planned for 85th and Evergreen in Coon Rapids, Fridley
The board approved entering into a professional services contract with WSB Engineering for design services related to the construction of a roundabout at 85th Ave. NW and Evergreen Boulevard NW in the cities of Coon Rapids and Fridley. Construction on this project is scheduled for 2024. For more information on this item, click HERE.
Bridge to be Replaced Over Coon Creek
The board approved entering into a joint powers agreement with the City of Coon Rapids for the replacement of a bridge on Coon Creek Boulevard, over Coon Creek. This project is scheduled to commence in late winter of 2022-23 or late winter of 2023-24. For more information on this item, click HERE.
County to Seek Bids for Emergency Communications Center, Radio Shop
Commissioner Matt Look, chair of the Finance Committee, noted the county is now seeking bids for the construction of the county’s new Emergency Communications Center and Radio Shop. To watch the video on this item, click HERE.
Language Updated in Relation to Absentee Ballot Board
The board adopted a new resolution establishing the Anoka County Absentee Ballot board. The current ballot board resolution was passed in 2014. Language in that resolution was updated to clarify that the ballot board consist of a sufficient number of party balanced election judges, and that election judges will be used for all tasks where their participation is required by state statute. For more information on this item, click HERE. To watch the video on this item, click HERE.
Upcoming Sheriff’s Office Events Detailed
Commissioner Julie Braastad, chair of the county’s Public Safety Committee, noted there are several upcoming Anoka County Sheriff’s Office events:
Aug. 5 –– Community and Sheriff Together Fishing Event.
Sept. 14 –– Sheriff’s Office Open House.
Citizen Academy opportunities through Sheriff’s Office Sept. 21 to Nov. 2.
For more information on these items, visit the Sheriff’s Office website HERE or call 763-324-5000.
New Economic Development Director Hired
The board approved an employment agreement with Gregory Frahm-Gilles for services as the county’s new economic development director. The director is responsible for strategic planning, administration and the execution of programs developed to position Anoka County as a great place to grow and expand both small and large businesses. For more information on this item, click HERE. To watch the video, click HERE.
To watch the full board meeting click HERE.