Text that says Connections, a weekly update from the City of Hopkins

Central Park Open House is November 17

Come out to Hopkins Pavilion on Monday, November 17, from to 6 to 8 p.m., to learn more about elements of the Central Park Master Plan. There will not be a formal presentation – come anytime during the event to speak with project staff and give your input. Learn more about the plan on the City website.

Thanksgiving Meal Delivery Nominations Due November 17

The Hopkins Police Department has joined together with the Hopkins Fire Department, the Hopkins Rotary, and the Hopkins Business and Civic Association to deliver Thanksgiving meals, provided by Driskill's Downtown Market, to those in need. If you, your family, a friend or a neighbor are in need of a Thanksgiving meal, submit an online nomination form by 6 a.m. on Monday, November 17. If you are unable to submit a nomination online, please contact Anne Buck at 952-548-6407.

Last Week of Free Leaf and Yard Waste Pick-Up
is November 17-20

The last week of free fall leaf and yard waste bag pick-up will be on your regular garbage day November 17-20. You do not need to schedule this pick-up. Find more information about leaf and yard waste pick-up.

Hopkins Community Connection Project Visioning Sessions are November 22

The Hopkins Community Connection Project wants your feedback! The Community Connection Survey is collecting resident thoughts, experiences, and ideas related to engagement and belonging in the Hopkins community. All residents – including youth – are encouraged to participate to inform future programs and opportunities in Hopkins. More information about the project can be found on our website.

Two in-person visioning sessions will be held on Saturday, November 22, from 1 to 2:30 p.m., and 4 to 5:30 p.m., at the Hopkins Pavilion. This will be a space to share experiences in the Hopkins community and imagine ways to become more inclusive, connected, and engaged with fellow residents. Light refreshments and activities for children will be provided. Youth are highly encouraged to participate.

Yard Sign Recycling Drop-Off Runs Through November 26

Now that the 2025 election season has wrapped up, check with the campaign to see if they are collecting yard signs for reuse. If the yard sign can’t be reused, yard signs can be dropped off at the Minnetonka/Hopkins Recycling Center, 11522 Minnetonka Boulevard, through November 26, 2025. The signs will be brought to Choice Plastics, where they will be turned into pellets and then recycled into new material.

Reminder for Hopkins Center for the Arts Members!

Hopkins Center for the Arts members have early access to purchase tickets for the first round of the Center's announced 2026 concerts now until sales open to the general public on Tuesday, November 18:

February 13: Sierra Hull + The Milk Carton Kids
March 6: The Lone Bellow
April 25: Los Lonely Boys.

Learn more and purchase tickets on the Hopkins Center for the Arts website.

Rebates for Energy Efficiency Projects Close in December

Have a home improvement project in mind that improves energy efficiency, electrifies gas equipment or adds renewable energy? Apply for the Hopkins Climate Solutions Fund by December 1 to receive a rebate. Projects must be pre-approved before work begins and completed by the end of 2025. The program is open to Hopkins residents and businesses. Projects awarded in the past include heat pumps, insulation and air sealing, electric dryers, EV charging stations, and solar panels. Learn more about the program on the City website.

Energy Assistance Available

Community Action Partnership of Hennepin County’s Energy Assistance Program can help pay your utility bills between October 1, 2025 and May 31, 2026. If you’re an eligible applicant, you may receive a grant paid directly to your utility provider that reduces your expenses. Learn more and apply online.

Recycle Sidewalk Salt at Public Works

Hopkins Public Works is offering a sidewalk salt recycling program this winter. Bring your leftover, old or used salt to Hopkins Public Works, 11100 Excelsior Boulevard, and dispose of it in the black garbage bin located near the front door (all salt must be shaken out of the bag or other original container - no packaging accepted). All recycled salt will be mixed in with City road salt and used on Hopkins public streets.