HomeMy WebLinkAbout2023 Spring NewsletterLetter from the Mayor
Our city has been growing year after year as a direct result of all that Hugo has to offer to
new residents. The Hugo City Council has been hard at work ensuring that we are growing
responsibly by expanding our infrastructure, creating new amenities that will keep people
coming, and maintaining a fantastic place to live for our current residents. A responsibly
growing city is not only welcoming, but ready to handle all of the new businesses and
residents who want to call Hugo home.
In July of last year, the Metropolitan Council released its
population estimates for 2021, giving Hugo an estimated
population of 16,071. Now, contrast that with the
population of the 2000 Census, which was 6,363.
Seemingly right before our eyes, the City has nearly
tripled in size and is well on its way to reaching an
estimated 29,000 residents by 2040. Being able to
manage this type of growth involves planning and
infrastructure to ensure that development coming to
Hugo can thrive. In 2022, the City saw 109 new homes
constructed, most of which were in the city’s newest
housing developments. The Community Development
Department has been working hard with developers to
being even more excellent neighborhoods to Hugo with
intentional design to be great places to live.
Despite facing the tail end of difficult and uncertain
times, the City of Hugo has had plenty of accomplish-
ments to celebrate within the past year. Directly across
from City Hall, the Lions Park reconstruction project has
been completed and now named Lions Volunteer Park.
The name change acknowledges the hundreds of volunteers who made the project possi-
ble. The state-of-the-art accessible playground, pickleball and tennis courts, skate park, and
walking paths create a destination for visitors from all over. The park also features the new
community building Peder Pedersen Pavilion, named to honor a longtime volunteer who has
tangibly made the City a better place to live. The pavilion saw its first public event being held
in December with the first annual Santa Party, and is now open for private rental through our
new online facility rental service. With the opening of North Star Elementary School this past
fall, we continue our partnership with the White Bear Lake Area School District and welcome
an other cutting edge elementary school to our city. The past year’s accomplishments set us
up well to have plenty to look forward to this year.
(continued on next page)
“A responsibly
growing city
is not only
welcoming, but
ready to handle
all of the new
businesses
and residents”
SPRING2023
In this issue...
Welcome New Commissioners ...... 2-3
Park Play Days ...................................3
The Jolly Pops ....................................3
Public Works ...................................4-5
Irrigation Controller Program ............5
Birch Tree Ponds Project ...................6
Hugo Spring Cleanup.........................7
Highway 61 Visioning ........................8
Hopkins School & Heritage Center ....9
Hugo Historical Commission .............9
Sheriff’s Office Updates ...................10
Cryptocurrency Crime Prevention ....10
Updates from the Fire Chief ............11
Compost Bin / Rain Barrel Sale ........12
Recycling at Home ...........................12
Hugo City Hall
14669 Fitzgerald Avenue North
Hugo, MN 55038
651-762-6300 • www.ci.hugo.mn.us
Fire Department
651-762-6362
Washington County
Sheriff’s Office
911 • Non-emergency: 651-439-9381
Public Works
651-762-6301
TUNE INTOGovernment Channel 16
for community updates and to watch City meetings
If you have a question you would like to ask the Mayor,
send it to info@ci.hugo.mn.us
Your question could be featured in the next newsletter!
Letter
from the
Mayor
(cont’d)
As I mentioned in my State of the City address, the City
is committed to preserving and expanding our public
spaces. The Parks Commission has been working
through several projects to make our open space more
enjoyable with trail construction. Clearwater Creek
Preserve is set to receive a major upgrade to its trails,
designed to make the space more easily enjoyed
by all. Additionally, the Parks Commission has been
advancing toward making the concept for the Bernin
Tree Farm property master plan a reality, opening
up the western shore of Oneka Lake to the public.
Meanwhile, the Planning Commission has been
having important discussions surrounding the future
of residential development, with particular focus on
how the City should approach apartment proects. The
Planning Commission has also been setting several
neighborhood developments in motion, which will
welcome more neighbors to Hugo.The Economic
Development Authority has been working hard to
create a thriving business environment. It is import-
ant to recognize the difficulty and risk of starting
a business from square one, therefore the City is
also dedicated to supporting those who make the
choice to invest in our community. The Historical
Commission has been hard at work ensuring
that Hugo’s history is well preserved as we grow
and progress toward our future, as well as
celebrating the 20th anniversary of the commission’s
creation! Needless to say, volunteers who serve on the
City’s commissions are instrumental in keeping Hugo a
fantastic place to live, work, and play. At the end of
2022, the City Council selected some of the many
candidates interviewed to serve on City Commissions.
I would like to thank them all, and introduce three of
them to you now.
Tom Weidt, Mayor
WELCOME NEW COMMISSIONERS!
Mike Granger
PLANNING COMMISSION
What do you consider the best part
of living in Hugo?
The best part of living in Hugo (for me)
is that I live within walking distance to
both a gun range and a golf course!
I think this is a great example of the
culture of the city. While the city has
grown significantly in the last 20 years,
over half of the city is still rural-resi-
dential and agricultural. This creates a
unique blend of excellent trails/ parks
for the residential communities along-
side open spaces for farming, fishing,
and hunting.
Why did you decide to volunteer for the Planning Commission?
I decided to volunteer for the planning commission because I’ve lived in Hugo
for 30 years, and thought it was time to give back to the community. While
the city has grown significantly over that time period, I love that fact that it still
has that “small town” feel. As a planning commissioner I will work to support
the growth of the city as well as preserve the culture in any way that we can.
The residential development will continue, and with that, we will see more
commercial development in the downtown area (stores, restaurants, etc...).
Like many Hugonians, I am looking forward to closer proximity to amenities
such as these. While this all takes time, I am excited to see it develop and grow
in the coming years.
Mike Kelly
PLANNING COMMISSION
Why did you decide to volunteer
for the Planning Commission?
In October of 2018 my wife, Arlene,
and I made our move to Adelaide
Landing in Hugo to be closer to our
two daughters and their families. I
decided to volunteer for the Planning
Commission because I have a back-
ground in real estate, planning and
development. I am looking forward to
staying current on today’s issues.
2
Mike Kelly, Planning Commission
Mike Granger, Planning Commission
Valerie Boyd
PARKS COMMISSION
Why did you decide to volunteer
for the Parks Commission?
Hugo has always been a part of my life.
My Grandparents JoAnne and Lorne
Friend lived here for most of their lives
and it was where my Dad was raised
and now we (my husband, myself, and
our Great Dane) live in that very same
house. I felt passionate about volun-
teering for the city (parks and rec com-
mission) because I care about the city
of Hugo and how it continues to grow
and develop.
What is your favorite feature of the Parks system?
It’s hard to name just one. When it comes to our parks system, there’s so much
more than meets the eye. Although I could be considered a long-term resident,
I am really learning about all that our parks have to offer from a fresh perspec-
tive as a parks commissioner. I think the commission has done an amazing job
to provide for our community and really think about what they want and need.
From the passive Rice Lake Park to the newly redesigned Lions Park there
is truly something for everyone and I encourage those interested in learning
more to visit our Parks and Rec webpage on the city website to read all about
the eighteen parks featured in the parks and trails link.
Thank you to all of our
Volunteer Commissioners!
Planning Commission
Bronwen Kleissler – Chair Corky Lessard
Matthew Derr – Vice-Chair Mike Kelly
Steve Andress Cindy Petty
Mike Granger Scott Arcand – Alternate
Economic Development Authority
Tom Weidt – President Tom Denaway
Phil Klein – Vice President Frank Puleo
Neil Arcand Mike Roberts
John Chrun
Parks Commission
Meredith St. Pierre – Chair Mat Rauschendorfer
Cathy Moore-Arcand – Vice-Chair Ranell Tennyson
Valerie Boyd Jim Compton, Sr. – Alternate
Emily McGinnity
Historical Commission
Cynthia Schoonover – Chair Bradley Letourneau
Kathy Brevig Craig Moen
Scott Cregan 3
Mike Kelly, Planning Commission
Valerie Boyd, Parks Commission
Mike Granger, Planning Commission
The YMCA is offering children ages 4-12 the
opportunity to come play and learn at the
park. There will be a variety of crafts, games
and activities.
Participating children will be split into
two age groups: ages 4-7 and ages 8-12.
Cost per child per session $120
Session One: June 12- July 13
(no program July 3 or 4)
Session Two: July 17- August 17
Hours: 8:30 am- 11:30 pm (M, T, W and TH)
Hanifl Athletic Park (Space is limited)
7032 137th Street N.
Register online at:
ymcanorth.org/forestlakesummer
Bring your friends for children’s music,
movement and fun learning with the
Jolly Pops and puppet friends!
Peder Pedersen Pavilion/
Lions Volunteer Park
5524 Upper 146th Street
Friday, August 11 • 3:00 pm
A WORD FROM PUBLIC WORKS
4
Hydrant Flushing
Starting April 25th
(weather dependent)
As part of many other spring projects, the Public
Works Department will be flushing hydrants. It is
expected to take about two weeks to complete
all hydrants. Flushing purges rust and stagnant
water from the distribution system and iden-
tifies hydrants in need of maintenance. Some
residents may receive rust colored water that could
stain laundry. During this time, please check that
water coming into the house is clear and let the tap
water run, if necessary.
Prevent Stormwater Pollution
Report Illicit Discharges
An illicit discharge is an unlawful act of disposing, dumping,
spilling, emitting or other discharge of any substance other
than stormwater into the streets, gutters, ditches, and ponds
that make up our stormwater drainage system, or directly into
streams or lakes themselves. As a community member, you play
a large part in identifying and reducing illicit discharges in our
community.
What can you do about illicit discharges?
If you see anyone discharging
any material other than rain-
water in roadside ditches or
storm drains, please report it
to Public Works at 651-762-
6301. For potentially hazard-
ous materials and petroleum
spills, call 9-1-1 FIRST when
there is an immediate threat to
life or property.
Disposable Wipes
We need your help! Although many brands of disposable
wipes are labeled “flushable,” please do not flush them!
Disposable wipes cause major problems when flushed down
toilets. Because they don’t break down the way toilet paper
does, these wipes clog homeowner and municipal sewer
pipes, put stress on community wastewater collection
equipment, and cause cities to spend thousands
of dollars on premature
equipment repair and
replacement.
Your help in this matter is
greatly appreciated by your
Public Works Department!
Smart Irrigation Controller Program
About the Discount Program
In an effort to help residents save money by saving
water, the City of Hugo has created the Smart Irriga-
tion Controller Program with the help of the Metro-
politan Council an the Clean Water Land & Legacy
Amendment. Through this program, Rachio 3 Irriga-
tion Controllers are being offered to homeowners for
a discounted price of $50 (retail $200)
What is the benefit of a
Smart Irrigation Controller?
The Rachio 3 Irrigation Controller is Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) WaterSense certified to
save your home at least 20% of your outdoor
water use. The controller works by connecting to
your home’s WiFi and reading local weather reports
and forecasts to decide whether or not your
lawn needs additional water. The controller does
this automatically and can be controlled by your
smartphone! The controller can accommodate up
to 8 zones. Most irrigation systems use 8 zones or
fewer.
To purchase an irrigation controller
for $50 by cash or check, visit City Hall
while supplies last.
5
2 0 2 1 S M A R T I R R I G A T I O N
C O N T R O L L E R P R O G R A M
H O W T O P U R C H A S E A
C O N T R O L L E R : 1.Complete an application
form, which can be found
on the back of this page,
and write a check for $30,
made out to City of Hugo.
2.Either mail in the
application and check to
Hugo City Hall, or place
them in the drop box
located near the front doors
of City Hall.
3.Once received, City staff
will process your application
and deliver your irrigation
controller to your doorstep!
H u g o C i t y H a l l
i s o f f e r i n g
R a c h i o 3 S m a r t
I r r i g a t i o n
C o n t r o l l e r s f o r
$3 0 !
*Re tai l v a l u e of $2 3 0 *
F or mo r e in fo r mati on
Ca ll : 6 5 1 -762 -6 3 1 1
V is i t :
www.c i .h ugo .m n .u s /20 20 g ran t
Smart Irrigation Controller
Application
Hugo City Hall ● 14669 Fitzgerald Avenue North, Hugo, MN 55038 ● (651) 762-630 ● www.ci.hugo.mn.us/2020grant
Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 am – 4:30 pm
Applicant: _______________________________________________ FOR OFFICIAL OFFICE USE ONLY
Property Address:_________________________________________ Staff Approval: _________________
City: __________________ State: ____________ Zip: ____________ Date: ________________________
Phone: __________________________________________________ Irrigation Number: _____________
Cell: ____________________________________________________ Cash: □ OR Check: □
Email: ___________________________________________________ Check Number: ________________
Are you connected to City water? Yes: □ No: □ Receipt Number: _______________
My signature indicates that the information provided is true, I have read and understood the grant program
guidelines, and that I comply with the City of Hugo grant program requirements. I will allow a
representative of the City of Hugo to verify the installation if requested.
Signature: ______________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
ELIGIBILITY GUIDELINES
• Must be a resident of the City of Hugo.
• Must be connected to City water.
• Must currently have a functional
irrigation controller.
• The existing controller must have been
installed prior to 2019.
• Must have a smartphone (necessary to
program and to operate the controller).
• Must have in-home Wi-Fi strength at
your existing controller by making sure
that your smartphone picks up at least
two bars. Failure to have sufficient Wi-
Fi at the controller location may result
in compatibility or functionality issues
with your controller.
• Installation and programming of your new controller is the
responsibility of the property owner.
• The City reserves the right to inspect the irrigation controller for
proper installation.
• Smart controllers will be distributed on a first come, first served basis
and at the discretion of the City of Hugo. The City reserves the right
to refuse any application for any reason it sees fit.
• Limit one controller per property address.
• If your controller is located outside, you will need to purchase an
outdoor enclosure. The City is not responsible for providing an
outdoor enclosure.
• The City is not responsible for sensor performance or water savings.
No warranty or guarantee is provided.
• The City has the right to discontinue or amend the grant program at
any time.
• All applications must be completed and turned in at Hugo City Hall.
Pet Waste
Pollutants from improperly
disposed pet waste may be
washed into storm sewers by
rain or melting snow. When
pet waste is washed into lakes
or streams the waste decays,
using up oxygen and some-
times releasing ammonia.
Low oxygen levels and ammonia combined with warm tem-
peratures can kill fish. Most importantly, pet waste carries
diseases which make water unsafe for swimming
and drinking.
Pet wastes may not be the largest or most toxic pollutant
in urban waterways, but it is one of the many little sources of
pollution that add up to a big problem. Fortunately there are
some things we can all do to help keep our water clean. It’s pet
owner’s responsibility to “scoop the poop” but it’s a small price
to pay to protect our water quality.
(Ordinance No. 2023-520 Sec 10-38)
Grass Clippings
The City maintains many stormwater ponds, control struc-
tures, ditches, and wetlands. We ask residents to help us keep
these features in good condition, please do not blow grass
clippings into the roadways or stormwater ponds.
These clippings decompose and turn into phosphorus which
cause algae blooms in the ponds.
If you live on a stormwater feature and you notice a structure
is plugged please call (651) 762-6301 so maintenance crews
can remove the obstruction.
Watering Restrictions - What Are They?
Property owners within the City using water from the City of
Hugo’s municipal water system, may only water lawns,
trees or other vegetation on an odd-even basis.
Specifically, property addresses which end in an odd number
may only water on odd calendar days. Properties having ad-
dresses which end in an even number may only water on even
calendar days. An exemption from the odd-even restriction of up
to 30 days is available for new sod, seed, or plantings. You may
call Hugo City Hall at (651) 762-6300 to be added to a
30-day exemption list.
2 0 2 1 S M A R T I R R I G A T I O N
C O N T R O L L E R P R O G R A M
H O W T O P U R C H A S E A
C O N T R O L L E R : 1.Complete an application
form, which can be found
on the back of this page,
and write a check for $30,
made out to City of Hugo.
2.Either mail in the
application and check to
Hugo City Hall, or place
them in the drop box
located near the front doors
of City Hall.
3.Once received, City staff
will process your application
and deliver your irrigation
controller to your doorstep!
H u g o C i t y H a l l
i s o f f e r i n g
R a c h i o 3 S m a r t
I r r i g a t i o n
C o n t r o l l e r s f o r
$3 0 !
*R e t a i l v a l u e o f $2 3 0 *
For more inform a t i o n
Call : 6 5 1 -7 6 2 -6 3 1 1
V is i t :
ww w .c i.h u g o .m n .u s /2 0 2 0 gran t
BIRCH TREE PONDSBIRCH TREE PONDS STREET IMPROVEMENT PROJECT
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140th St N
135th St N135th Ct NF o x h illAveN138thStN
Geneva Ave N
Fla
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AveNFountainAveNFreelandAveNEgg
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FreelandCtN Document Path: K:\020855-000\GIS\Maps\Birch Tree Ponds\BirchTreePondPRO\ProjectLocationMap Date Saved: 12/28/2022¯1 inch = 400 feet
0 400
Feet2023 Birch Tree Ponds Area Street Improvements
Hugo, MN
Figure 1 - Project Location Map
Project Location
Parcel Boundary
6
Project Background
The proposed project consists of
partial reconstruction of Fountain Ave
(north of Egg Lake Rd), 135th Street,
135th Court, 138th Street, Foxhill
Avenue, Geneva Avenue, Freeland
Avenue, Freeland Court and stub
streets and a urban roadway mill and
overlay of Fountain Avenue south of
Egg Lake Rd. all within the Birch Tree
Ponds Neighborhood.
Fountain Ave (south of Egg Lake Rd)
- Milling of Pavement Surface
- Partial Repair/Replacement of Curb and Gutter
- Repair Storm Structures
- Resurfacing of the Roadway
Utility Improvements
- Add watermain isolation valves
- Remove and replace deficient sanitary sewer
casting and manhole lids
- Complete Pavement Removal
- Subgrade Correction as Needed
- Replacement of Concrete Curb and Gutter
- Storm Sewer Repair, and Storm
Water Management Improvements
- Paving of New Roadway Section
- Installation of Concrete Curb and
Gutter on Fountain Ave (North of Egg Lake Rd) The construction
is anticipated to
start in June.
Please check the
City of Hugo’s
website for
future updates
on the project.
Project Scope
Fountain Ave (north of Egg Lake Rd), 135th Street,
135th Court, 138th Street, Foxhill Avenue, Geneva
Avenue, Freeland Avenue, Freeland Court
and stub streets
BIRCH TREE PONDSBIRCH TREE PONDS STREET IMPROVEMENT PROJECT
7
Hugo Cleanup Day
Saturday, May 6 · 8 am – Noon
Hugo
Public Works Building
8220 140th Street
Location
Questions? Call the Hugo Public Works at 651-762-6301
The City’s Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan will be available for comment at this event.
Cash (small bills) or checks only. Please make payable
to City of Hugo. (Proportional rates may be applied to
partial loads and overloaded trucks)
Car load of trash $10 and up
Pickup load of trash $30 and up
Trailer load of trash $35 and up
Lawn mower (Push) $15/unit
Lawn mower (Rider) $30/unit
Household appliance $25/unit
Commercial appliance $75 and up
Air conditioner $30/unit
Water softener $25/unit
Mattress or box spring $30/unit
Upholstered furniture $35/each
Carpet $1/yard
Bicycle with tires $5/each
Bicycle without tires FREE
Scrap metal FREE
Tires $2.50 and up
Spring 2023
Drop-off Items for Hugo residents only
Drop-off Procedures
•See attendant for fees.
•Follow attendants directions for location for your waste
by type.
IMPORTANT
CHANGES
Hazardous household waste will not be collected
at Hugo Public Works. Hazardous waste will be
collected at the Forest Lake Transit Center 8:00
AM - 2:00 PM on May 6, and June 3, 2023.
There will NOT be another City cleanup
event in 2023.
Fountain Ave (south of Egg Lake Rd)
- Milling of Pavement Surface
- Partial Repair/Replacement of Curb and Gutter
- Repair Storm Structures
- Resurfacing of the Roadway
Utility Improvements
- Add watermain isolation valves
- Remove and replace deficient sanitary sewer
casting and manhole lids
120th Street N
180th Street N
Onek
a
P
kwy
N
Oneka Pkwy NGoodview Ave. NFenway Blvd NJ
ROAD
COUNTY
50
ROAD
COUNTY202nd Street
Headwaters Pwky
190th Street N
170th Street N
165th Street N
O n e k a L a k e B l v d NFrench
m
a
n Rd
Egg Lake Rd N
8
Oneka Lake
Egg
Lake
Clearwater Creek Preserve
Rice
Lake
61
Highway 61 Visioning Study
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Washington County, MnDOT and the City of Hugo are partnering on a corridor visioning study of Hwy 61
through Hugo city limits. A traffic, land use and engineering analysis, along with community input will help
identify the long-range vision for the corridor that will be used to define future improvements and guide a
potential jurisdictional transfer of the roadway from MnDOT to Washington County.
Maddie Dahlheimer
Washington County Senior Planner
651-430-4338 |madeline.dahlheimer@co.washington.mn.us
STUDY GOALS
• Define a corridor vision that supports economic growth, community investment and long-term transportation
goals while increasing safety for all users.
• Evaluate access and intersection locations onto Hwy 61 and recommend future improvements at key locations.
• Determine right-of-way needs for the corridor based on the needs of each travel mode (e.g., cars, trucks, transit,
pedestrians, bicyclists).
• Identify pedestrian and bicycle safety and connectivity improvements
throughout the corridor.
• Determine a financial plan and timeline for the Hwy 61 jurisdictional transfer
through Hugo and Forest Lake.
SCHEDULE
Explore
Winter/
Spring 2023
Evaluate
Summer
2023
Define
Fall/Winter
2023
Collect data and assess existing/forecasted conditions.
Consider future development in Hugo and Forest Lake.
Explore corridor issues and opportunities.
Develop and evaluate corridor improvement
alternatives with consideration to community priorities
and traffic engineering solutions.
Define a preferred corridor vision.
Compile study report summarizing process and
outcomes.
Outline jurisdictional transfer plan including
implementation, financial and timeline considerations.
Rachel Juba
Hugo Community Development Director
651-762-6304 |rjuba@ci.hugo.mn.us
WANT MORE INFO?
Visit the project webpage for more information, study updates and to sign up for email notifications!
STUDY AREA
www.co.washington.mn.us/Highway61
8
CELEBRATING THE HUGO HISTORICAL COMMISSION
9
Join us in celebrating the 20-year anniversary
of the creation of the Hugo Historical
Commission! The commission was created
when the City Council voted in favor of its
establishment on December 16, 2002, charged
with preserving and protecting
the history of Hugo.
The mission of the Hugo Historical
Commission is to connect our
community to its past by:
• Locating, collecting, and preserving
historical information about our
community.
• Educating the community, encouraging
personal and community responsibility for
preserving our past, and fostering an un-
derstanding and appreciation of our history.
The Hugo Historical Commission has
worked on several projects that have greatly
enhanced the collective understanding of
community history, and preserving it for
generations to come. A notable recent
accomplishment was the Hugo Namesake
Project, which sought to answer the age-
old question; was Hugo named for Duluth
Mayor and Marine Engineer Trevanion Hugo,
or French writer of Les Misérables fame
Victor Hugo? A few other research projects
the Historical Commission completed detailed
Eugene Peltier the Village Blacksmith, the dev-
astation of the Polio Epidemic, and the history
of railroad transportation in Hugo.
All of these projects, and the fascinating
stories that come with them, are available
for the public on the city website.
The work of the Hugo Historical Commission
has had an incredible impact on our collec-
tive understanding of the community’s past,
present, and future, and would not have been
possible without the hard work of the
Commission’s volunteers for the past two
decades.
We would like to give special
recognition to Cynthia Schoonover,
who has been a member of the Hugo
Historical Commission
since its founding
in 2002.
Cynthia has chaired
the Hugo Historical
Commission since
2015, and has been
an instrumental force
in keeping Hugo’s
history alive. Please
join us in thanking
Cynthia for her
decades of service!
The Hugo Historical Commission
has been very involved with an on-
going project led by local community
members to save and restore the Hop-
kins Schoolhouse. The schoolhouse
was constructed in 1928 near the inter-
section of 170th St N and Highway 61,
and served as an “ungraded elemen-
tary school.” After its use as a school,
the building saw service as the town
hall for Oneka Township until 1972,
when the township incorporated with
the Village of Hugo forming the City
of Hugo. Although the schoolhouse
saw brief use as a youth meeting cen-
ter, the building has remained vacant
since the early 2000s.
In 2022, a group of volunteers
formed a steering committee to
create a nonprofit organization to be
known as the Hopkins Schoolhouse &
Heritage Center, envisioning the space
as a museum of Hugo history and
community gathering place. The City
Council approved a request from the
steering committee to not remove the
schoolhouse, to enter an agreement
with the Forest Lake Area Historical
Society as the temporary fiscal host for
the project, and to transition the agree-
ment to the new non-profit organiza-
tion once formed. Since the approval,
City staff has been working with the
steering committee on details for this
agreement, which will be reviewed at
a later date by the City Council. Mean-
while, the steering committee is work-
ing on a capital campaign and other
plans to secure funding.
For more information or to inquire
about ways to support the Hopkins
Schoolhouse & Heritage Center, visit
hopkinsschoolhouse.org or on
Facebook.
Hugo HIstorical Commission
Cynthia Schoonover,
HIstorical Commission
From gift cards to lottery winnings,
a “warrant for your arrest” or a loved one
in jail, scammers will stop at nothing to get
their hands on your money. Unfortunately,
crytocurrency-related scams have become
increasingly common in Washington County,
and our investigations unit has been working
diligently to educate the public and provide
resources to avoid falling victim.
Cryptocurrency, like “Bitcoin” is a digital or
virtual currency that uses cryptography to se-
cure and verify monetary transactions. Unlike
traditional currencies that are issued and reg-
ulated by central authorities like governments
and banks, cryptocurrencies are decentral-
ized and operate independently of any gov-
ernment or financial institution. Cryptocurren-
cy has gained legitimate popularity with the
potential for high returns, making it an attrac-
tive option for investors. Cryptocurrencies can
be used for online transactions, as a store of
value, or as an investment.
As the popularity of cryptocurrency continues
to rise, so do cryptocurrency-related scams.
These scams come in various forms, and they
can be difficult to detect for those who are
not familiar with the cryptocurrency market.
Washington County victims are typically
contacted by phone by individuals claim-
ing to be investment managers or using other
traditional scam tactics to request crypto-
currency transactions. Victims of cryptocur-
rency crimes are generally instructed to create
an online cryptocurrency account or told to
deposit money at cryptocurrency ATMs,
usually located at specific locations through-
out the metro. Money lost in cryptocurrency
scams is highly untraceable, ending up in
accounts overseas within seconds.
Protect yourself and your information
by being cautious when answering calls
from unknown numbers, avoid giving out
any personal information over the phone,
and trusting your instincts. Scammers often
impersonate reputable organizations, such
as banks, government agencies, or crypto
currency exchanges, to gain your trust. They
also tend to use high-pressure tactics to con-
vince you to send them money or share your
sensitive information, using fear or urgency to
make you act quickly. It’s wise to consider any
unsolicited form of contact asking for money
or personal details, including those related to
cryptocurrency, as a potential scam. If you’re
interested in investing in cryptocurrency, it’s
advisable to seek out a reliable financial man-
ager or investment firm with expertise in this
field.
We understand the devastating impact that
these scams can have on individuals and
families, and we are committed to helping
those affected. By working together, we can
raise awareness about the risks associated
with cryptocurrencies and help prevent these
types of scams from occurring in the future.
For questions about these scams,
including more information, please
feel free to call our non-emergency
dispatch at 651-439-9381, or email
sheriff@co.washington.mn.us.
Detective
Anthony Jaring
Detective Jaring has been with the Washington
County Sheriff’s Office for the past seven years,
six of those as a deputy sheriff. Starting his
career as a correctional officer, he later joined
the patrol division in 2017 and worked the
midnight shift for two years. He continued his
patrol duties and was assigned to the afternoon
shift in the Lake Elmo contract before assuming
the position of Hugo Detective in November of
last year.
In addition to being a member of the SWAT
team, Detective Jaring is also a defensive tac-
tics instructor and has experience serving as a
Field Training Officer for new deputies. In his
free time, he enjoys practicing mixed martial
arts and has a love for food, especially macaroni
and cheese.
10
UPDATES FROM FIRE CHIEF Jim Compton Jr.
jrcompton@ci.hugo.mn.us
Meet Our New Firefighters
The Hugo Fire Department would like to welcome our newest
member’s probationary fire fighters Jen, Cory and Tom. They
officially joined our department on December 1, 2022. They
started this process back in August of 2022 and successfully
completed all phases of the hiring process by November 2022.
Jen, Cory and Tom started their fire fighter training at Century
College and will complete that by the end of May 2023. They will
then start on their medical training which will take another 6 to
8 weeks to complete. The first year of a Hugo Probationary Fire
Fighter is filled with Training and classes along with responding to
calls for some on the job training.
Join Our Team!
Hugo Fire will be accepting applications until end of business
May 5, 2023. Applications are available on the City of Hugo
Website or at City Hall.
Any questions please contact Assistant Fire
Chief Colin Emans at cemans@ci.hugo.mn.us
or 651-755-2056.
Fridays with Firefighters
Spend a Friday afternoon with the Hugo Fire Department. Learn
about fire prevention, tour the Fire Hall, and participate in fun
activities! This event will be held on Friday, June 16, July 14, and
August 11 from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm. Please visit the Hugo
Fire and Rescue Facebook page for more information.
11
Burn Restrictions
The Hugo Fire Department asks that residents use caution while
having recreational fires and to have a water source nearby. Burning
permits are required for any fire over 3 feet by 3 feet when there is less
than 3’’ of continuous snow on the ground.
During spring months get informed by visiting the City website at
www.ci.hugo.mn.us/hfd and/or the DNR website at www.dnr.
state.mn.us/forestry/fire/fireratingrestrictions.html
(L to R) Jen Verplaetse, Cory Albertson, Tom Robinson
Hugo Firefighters
responding to vehicle
fire emergency.
PRSRT STD
U.S. Postage
PAID
Permit No.
Twin Cities, MN
SPRING2023
Hugo City Hall
14669 Fitzgerald Avenue North
Hugo, MN 55038
651-762-6300 or info@ci.hugo.mn.us
Office Hours
8:00 am - 4:30 pm Monday - Friday
Closed weekends and holidays
www.ci.hugo.mn.us
THIS ISSUE IS
RECYCLABLE
PLEASE HELPPLEASE HELP
SAVE TREES. SAVE TREES.
12
www.co.washington.mn.us/publichealth | 651-430-6655
Recycling at Home
No Tanglers
(No hoses, wires,
or string lights) NO!
Glass Metal Plastic Cartons Paper & Cardboard
Bottles & Jars Food & Beverage Cans Bottles & Containers
Do Not Bag
Recyclables
No Plastic
Bags or Wrap
No Shredded
Paper
When in doubt, keep it out. Putting these items in your recycling cart does more harm than good.
Empty and rinse all containers
1 2 5
www.co.washington.mn.us/publichealth | 651-430-6655
Recycling at Home
No Tanglers
(No hoses, wires,
or string lights) NO!
Glass Metal Plastic Cartons Paper & Cardboard
Bottles & Jars Food & Beverage Cans Bottles & Containers
Do Not Bag
Recyclables
No Plastic
Bags or Wrap
No Shredded
Paper
When in doubt, keep it out. Putting these items in your recycling cart does more harm than good.
Empty and rinse all containers
1 2 5
www.co.washington.mn.us/publichealth | 651-430-6655
Recycling at Home
No Tanglers
(No hoses, wires,
or string lights) NO!
Glass Metal Plastic Cartons Paper & Cardboard
Bottles & Jars Food & Beverage Cans Bottles & Containers
Do Not Bag
Recyclables
No Plastic
Bags or Wrap
No Shredded
Paper
When in doubt, keep it out. Putting these items in your recycling cart does more harm than good.
Empty and rinse all containers
1 2 5
Washington County is partnering with the
Recycling Association of Minnesota to sell
discounted compost bins and rain barrels
to Washington County residents.
• Home Composter compost bin
Discounted price: $56
• Rain Catcher rain barrel
Discounted price: $70
Compost Bin and Rain Barrel Sale
Coming Soon!
Scan to learn more! WashCoRecycles.com/Barrels | 651-275-7475
Items will be available to purchase online in late March. Pre-ordered items
must be picked up at the Environmental Center within 90 days of purchase.
Washington County is partnering with the
Recycling Association of Minnesota to sell
discounted compost bins and rain barrels
to Washington County residents.
• Home Composter compost bin
Discounted price: $56
• Rain Catcher rain barrel
Discounted price: $70
Compost Bin and Rain Barrel Sale
Coming Soon!
Scan to learn more! WashCoRecycles.com/Barrels | 651-275-7475
Items will be available to purchase online in late March. Pre-ordered items
must be picked up at the Environmental Center within 90 days of purchase.
Washington County is partnering with the
Recycling Association of Minnesota to sell
discounted compost bins and rain barrels
to Washington County residents.
• Home Composter compost bin
Discounted price: $56
• Rain Catcher rain barrel
Discounted price: $70
Compost Bin and Rain Barrel Sale
Coming Soon!
Scan to learn more! WashCoRecycles.com/Barrels | 651-275-7475
Items will be available to purchase online in late March. Pre-ordered items
must be picked up at the Environmental Center within 90 days of purchase.
Washington County is partnering with the Recycling Association of Minnesota to sell
discounted compost bins and rain barrels
to Washington County residents.
• Home Composter compost bin
Discounted price: $56
• Rain Catcher rain barrel
Discounted price: $70
Compost Bin and Rain Barrel SaleComing Soon!
Scan to learn more! WashCoRecycles.com/Barrels | 651-275-7475
Items will be available to purchase online in late March. Pre-ordered items
must be picked up at the Environmental Center within 90 days of purchase.
SCAN TO
LEARN
MORE!
WashCoRecycles.com/Barrels | 651-275-7475
www.co.washington.mn.us/publichealth | 651-430-6655
Recycling at Home
No Tanglers
(No hoses, wires,
or string lights) NO!
Glass Metal Plastic Cartons Paper & Cardboard
Bottles & Jars Food & Beverage Cans Bottles & Containers
Do Not Bag
Recyclables
No Plastic
Bags or Wrap
No Shredded
Paper
When in doubt, keep it out. Putting these items in your recycling cart does more harm than good.
Empty and rinse all containers
1 2 5
Recyclingat Home
Empty and rinse
all containers