Houston County Chairman Eric Johnson presented Resolution No. 24-06 in “opposition to the recently redesigned Minnesota state flag and seal” at the January 9, 2024, commission meeting. The board unanimously adopted the resolution. Chairman Johnson shared a memo from Houston County Sheriff Brian Swedberg illustrating the financial impact on the county if the state moves … [Read more...]
Houston County Commissioners Elect New Chairman
The first order of business at the January 2, 2024, Houston County Commission meeting was the election of the 2024 board chairman and vice chair. Commissioner Eric Johnson will take the lead as chairman and Commissioner Bob Schuldt will step into the role as vice-chairman. Board Clerk Allison Wagner promptly called the meeting to order at 9 a.m. and led the board and the … [Read more...]
Brownsville to Continue Flying Current Minnesota State Flag
The Brownsville City Council unanimously approved to continue flying the current Minnesota State flag at the January 3, 2024, council meeting until further notified. Councilmember William (Bill) Fitzpatrick stated regarding the state’s decision to redesign the flag and the logo, “What a waste of time and money!” Mayor Jean Meyer summarized the proclamation included in the … [Read more...]
Houston County Employees Recognized for Service
Twelve Houston County employees were recognized for their years of service to the county at the county’s December 26 commission meeting. Thirty-five-year awards to David J. Bauer and Mary A. Zaffke; 30-year award to Julie A. Renk; 25-year award to Holly S. Felten; 20-year awards to Christopher C. Tuveson and Julie K. Von Arx-Abnet; 15-year awards to Anthony T. Dockter, William … [Read more...]
Mabel-Canton School Certifies Levy
The Mabel-Canton (M-C) school held its annual Truth in Taxation hearing on Tuesday, December 19, 2023, at the beginning of the regularly scheduled school board meeting. Time was allotted for public comment and discussion as required by state law. Business Manager Aimee Lake reviewed the process and the 2023-2024 school budget as it pertained to the certification of the … [Read more...]
Spring Grove Schools Approves Property Tax Levy
The Spring Grove Public Schools held its annual Truth in Taxation public hearing before the regular school board meeting on Monday, December 18. The board unanimously approved an increase in the property tax levy of $1,042.979.00 or 156.7%. Superintendent Rachel Udstuen thanked everyone for attending and explained that there would be time for questions at the end of the … [Read more...]
Houston County Commissioners to Get 3% Increase in 2024
Houston County Commissioners approved a 3% increase for themselves with meeting stipends staying the same at the December 19 regularly scheduled commission meeting. The vote was two to three in favor of increasing their annual compensation. Finance Officer Carol Lapham confirmed that a 3% increase is included in the 2024 budget. Commissioners Eric Johnson and Greg Myhre both … [Read more...]
Eitzen Considers Automating the Town’s Wellhouse and Lift Stations
Frustrated after hearing about the cost to replace the controls at the town’s wellhouse and the five lift stations, Eitzen Councilwoman Emily Burrichter wondered out loud how to get residents to understand that flushing wipes down the toilet are costing the town thousands of dollars. Discussion took place at the town’s December 12 city council meeting, The council heard two … [Read more...]
Mabel Struggling with Ambulance Coverage
Like every small town in Minnesota, Mabel Ambulance Service is struggling with ambulance coverage, Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) and Emergency Medical Responders (EMRs) are needed, specifically, to cover the day shift. At the December 13 city council meeting, Mayor Wilder said that he along with City Clerk Karen Larson and Ambulance Director Sarah Mengis will be … [Read more...]
Houston County Conducts End-of-Year Business
As the year winds down, the Houston County Commission was faced with a lengthy agenda, including 11 action items and one presentation at its last meeting of the month, November 28. All five Houston County commissioners were in attendance: Chairman Dewey Severson, Eric Johnson, Robert (Bob) Burns, Bob Schuldt and Greg Myhre. Chairman Severson promptly called the meeting to … [Read more...]