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Land O’Lakes, Inc. is considering a significant expansion of its corpo- rate headquarters in Arden Hills. The Fortune 200 company has doubled its earnings in the past seven years, and its existing facilities cannot accommodate Land O’Lakes’ planned future growth. The company has contemplated relocat- ing its headquarters, but would prefer to remain in Arden Hills if public financial assistance can be secured for its expan- sion. Land O’Lakes plans to invest approxi- mately $80 million into their Arden Hills headquarters, expand their facilities by up to 145,000 square feet, add 200 new employees, and move employees currently working in the former Shoreview Deluxe Check buildings to the Arden Hills cam- pus. The company has requested City tax abatement assistance in which the City’s portion of the property tax attributed to the building expansion will be refunded to the Company over a period of not more than 15 years. The total amount of City abate- ment assistance would be approximately $650,000. Land O’Lakes has also request- ed that the City support the company’s application for up to $2 million of State assistance through the Job Creation Fund and a $1 million loan through the Minne- sota Investment Fund. Chris Policinski, president and CEO of Land O’Lakes, Inc. has remarked, “We have enjoyed a strong partnership with the City of Arden Hills. Our 1,800 headquar- ters employees who call the City home during the workday actively engage in the local community through volunteering in the schools and other local organizations. It’s our goal and our desire to build on this partnership with the City of Arden Hills and create a workplace that continues to attract and retain top talent in a growth industry.” The City Council will hold a public hear- ing and consider the abatement agree- ment on April 11. If public assistance is approved, Land O’Lakes intends to begin construction by the end of 2016 and be completed by December 31, 2018. Land O’ Lakes considering expansion plans Find out what you can recycle by con- tacting your hauler and know how to throw out items. There are many items like plastic bags, Sharps and other products that can’t be placed in your curbside cart. Help the recycling process by making sure recyclables are ready for the materials recovery facility (MRF): • Rinse out containers. • Crushing cans and containers actually makes them harder for machines to sort. • Break down cardboard boxes. • Keep unusual items that can’t be re- cycled at home (like batteries and plastic shopping bags) separate to be brought to facilities or drop-off locations. Remember to look for recyclables in your bathroom, kitchen, laundry, garage, and storage area. Many items, such as sham- poo, soap, lotion, dishwashing liquid and detergent bottles can be recycled. So can boxes from toothpaste, medications, phone books, and junk mail. Also remember to buy products with re- cycled content as it com- pletes the recycling loop. Encourage recycling at parties or events by set- ting out labeled containers for your guests to use. Recycle when you shop. Did you know that many retail stores accept items for recycling, such as cell phones, plastic bags, and ink cartridges? Consider bringing items that can be recycled at retail locations the next time you are running errands. What happens next? Check out www.iwanttoberecycled.org to see the life cycle of various recyclables. There are a wide variety of recycled-con- tent products made in Minnesota—these recycled materials save energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Looking for ways to step up your recycling efforts? Citizen volunteers are sought to serve on the Planning Commission; Commu- nications Committee; Parks, Trails and Recreation Committee; and the Economic Development Commission. More information about the commissions and the committees, as well as an applica- tion form can be found on the City website (click on “Committees & Commissions” under the “Government” tab). Interested residents also can call or stop by City Hall. Here’s your chance to make a difference in Arden Hills! from Land O’ Lakes Want to learn more? Check out RamseyRecycles.com or call 651-633-EASY (3279) answered 24/7. 4