Minn. Voters Denied Right to Decide Fire Dept.'s Future
Source Pioneer Press, St. Paul, Minn.
Aug. 23--Residents in Lino Lakes will not see a ballot question in November on the city's decision to withdraw from the Centennial Fire District.
An Anoka County judge Friday denied a request that would have ultimately put the fate of the city's fire services in the hands of voters, according to the written order released by Anoka County District Court Judge Tammi Fredrickson.
The group of firefighters and residents filed a lawsuit against the city Monday after the city rejected its petition demanding that a question be put on the November ballot.
The question would have asked Lino Lakes residents if they wanted to vote on the pending withdrawal from the joint fire district.
Lino Lakes, Centerville and Circle Pines have been members of the Centennial Fire District since 1990.
The Lino Lakes City Council opted to pull the growing city out of the collaborative in January because of its sizable financial contribution and limited decision-making authority.
The decision has been controversial, with some asserting the move will create gaps in the city's fire services as it moves from three to two stations operated by fewer and potentially greener firefighters.
The city rejected the residents' petition on the grounds that the council's decision was an administrative one that was not subject to repeal by petition.
The group maintained the decision was a legislative one that could be undone by petition.
Fredrickson agreed with the city's interpretation.
Erick Kaardal, an attorney representing the residents, said the group was disappointed but would likely circulate another petition. He said the group also was considering appealing the judge's decision.
A new petition would more explicitly relate to legislative actions taken by the council in relation to the fire service change, Kaardal said, giving it sturdier legal legs.
City Administrator Jeff Karlson said the city was pleased but not surprised with the order.
"We felt all along that we had a very strong defense and that council members had acted appropriated within their duties," Karlson said.
Sarah Horner can be reached at 651-228-5539. Follow her at twitter.com/hornsarah.
Copyright 2014 - Pioneer Press, St. Paul, Minn.
