Alexa Shapiro, trail director for the Minnesota Driftless Hiking Trail, requested approval to place signage for the trail through Chatfield at the city council’s July 13 meeting.
The proposed route of the trail through Chatfield was approved in December 2025. The eastern starting point for the trail is at the Groen Park parking lot. It will follow Third St. SW across Main St. heading towards Winona St. SE at Henricks Park. The trail continues south on Winona St. SE towards Enterprise Dr. following Enterprise Dr. until it reaches Hillside Dr., then turning up hill to the water tower in Hillside Park.
A kiosk will be installed at Henricks Park. Most of the signage will be arrows directing hikers along the designated trail. The installation of signage was approved as requested.
SMIF
Aaron Johnson, Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation, explained how the council’s support is an investment in rural southeast Minnesota. In Fillmore County for every dollar invested, $32 has been invested back into local communities. Investments in Olmsted County have strengthened the broader regional economy.
SMIF is a donor supported foundation. It’s mission is to support entrepreneurship, early childhood development, and community vitality through grants, lending, and trainings.
Chatfield has been a partner for 30 years. Johnson requested that Chatfield continue to gift $2,000 as it has in the past.
Other Business in Brief
•The city’s 2025 financial statement, for the year ending December 31, 2025, has been filed with the State Auditor’s office; confirmation has been received from CohnReznick.
•Library donations were accepted in the amount of $98 from Stitch Witches. Fire department fund drive donations in the amount of $100 were accepted. Ambulance fund drive donations in the amount of $2,515 were accepted.
•An agreement with Olmsted County was approved that allows for contracting with the county for the maintenance blading of city streets, and the plowing of snow from city streets. This option applies only if requested by the city and will be used rarely, if ever.
•A resolution was adopted appointing 12 Chatfield election judges for the August 11 primary election.
•A new 2026 Off-sale Liquor License was approved for 52 Bottle Shop. The new owner is Raider Liquor LLC.
•Street closures for Western Days were approved. Councilor Pam Bluhm asked that Western Days applications to be in the parade be submitted.
•Christy Archer has been promoted to director of the Chatfield Public Library.
•Mayor John McBroom advised drivers to always pay attention, especially for kids on scooters; the kids do not always pay attention. Golf cart operators are required to be 16 years of age or older.
•City Administrator Michele Peterson reported that there has been a long-term significant water leak at the trailer park in Olmsted County. Property owners can be billed for lost water.
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