Donation Accepted from Connexus Energy to Anoka County Parks
Representatives from Connexus Energy were at the board meeting to present Anoka County with a $25,000 donation, which will be used to support parks programming. For more than 36 years, Connexus Energy has provided generous support to the Anoka County Parks Department. Commissioners thanked Connexus for the donation, which will focus on the Heritage Lab and Wildlife Outreach program.
MetroNorth Chamber of Commerce Promotes National Civics Bee
Lori Higgins, president of the MetroNorth Chamber of Commerce, attended the meeting to inform the board and the public that MetroNorth is partnering with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation in support of the National Civics Bee. The competition is open to any 6th, 7th or 8th graders who apply by Tuesday, Feb. 3. The aim of this competition is for students to gain knowledge about American democracy, practice engaging respectively and constructively, and build trust in others and institutions. Students who respond to a 4-question essay and win at the state level can go on to compete nationally for the grand prize of a $100,000 five-twenty-nine scholarship program.
Grant Policy Approved
The board approved a grant policy for Anoka County –– the county does not currently have a grant policy. This new policy will guide the application, acceptance, and management of grant funding and intergovernmental revenue.
Transportation Coordinator Role Approved
The board approved a contract with the Anoka County Community Action Program (ACCAP) to fund a transportation coordinator role. The coordinator provides hybrid services, both virtually and in person, to discuss transportation services with county clients, including access to car repairs, insurance, and tabs. This position helps community members participate in job training, job search and employment activities.
Grant Approved for Violent Crimes Enforcement Teams
The board approved a contract between the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Office of Justice Programs, and the Anoka County Sheriff’s Office for the 2026 Violent Crime Enforcement Teams Grant. This grant funding is used for combating drug abuse and related violent criminal activities.
Joint Powers Agreement Approved for Investigation of Internet Crimes Against Children
The board adopted a resolution, on behalf of the Sheriff’s Department, to enter into a joint powers agreement with the State of Minnesota, Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, to utilize applicable state and federal laws to investigate and prosecute crimes committed against children and the exploitation of children that is committed or facilitated by the use of computers.
License Plate Reader Cameras to be placed in Coon Rapids
The board approved a contract with the City of Coon Rapids for the temporary placement of flock safety cameras on county-owned traffic control signals in the city. These license plate reader cameras will be placed at locations on a case-by-case basis.
Improvements to be Made Along Round Lake Boulevard
The board awarded a contract to Ti-Zack Concrete, LLC for the replacement and revision of traffic control systems and pedestrian ramp improvements along Round Lake Boulevard at the intersections Roosevelt Street/135th Avenue NW, 136th Avenue NW, Bunker Lake Boulevard NW, 138th Lane NW, 140th Lane NW, and 143rd Avenue NW, in the cities of Anoka and Andover.
Contract Awarded for Enhanced Mobility Transportation Services
The board approved a contract with the Transit Coordination Assistance Project to implement transportation services for the enhanced mobility of seniors, people with disabilities, and other transit-dependent populations.
Land Registration Application Approved for Gas Pipeline at Riverfront
The board adopted a resolution authorizing a land registration application to CenterPoint Energy for a new gas pipeline crossing under the Mississippi River at Riverfront Regional Park near I-694. Anoka County becomes the fee title owner of the parcels, which benefits the long-term status and security of Riverfront Regional Park.
Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Funding Accepted
The board adopted a resolution accepting $129,000 for 2026 in funding from the state, which is used to assist Minnesota counties in preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species.
New Assistant Director of Emergency Communications Hired
The board approved an employment agreement with Kevin McNallan, appointing him as the assistant director of Anoka County Emergency Communications. McNallan previously served as the county’s 911 systems manager.
The full County Board meeting is available for viewing.