Fall has arrived in Fillmore and Houston counties, making it the perfect time to explore not only the vibrant fall foliage but also the colorful murals that brighten Historic Bluff Country. The popularity of murals, a vibrant form of public art, is growing exponentially and is becoming increasingly popular in Fillmore and Houston Counties. This summer alone saw four new … [Read more...]
The Houston County Township Officers Association Holds Annual Dinner
The Houston County Township Officers Association (HCTOA) held its 64th annual fellowship dinner on Thursday, September 25, at the Four Seasons Community Center in Caledonia. Township officers and their guests from the county’s 17 townships, along with Sheriff Brian Swedberg, Interim Administrator Carol Lapham, Assistant County Surveyor Tammy Mauss, all five commissioners, … [Read more...]
Preston Brings the Past to Life with New Depot Museum and Riverfront Center
The Preston Historical Society (PHS) has been hard at work preserving and revitalizing the city’s historical roots – agriculture and railroad. Since its founding in 2002, PHS has led the effort to bring the former railyard back to life. Once a bustling hub of activity, the railyard lost its centrality when interstates replaced rail as the primary mean of transportation. But … [Read more...]
Caledonia Council Sets 12% Preliminary Levy
The Caledonia City Council set its preliminary tax levy during its regular meeting on Monday, September 22. The proposed levy reflects a 12% increase. While the levy may be reduced before the final approval in December, it cannot be increased once it is set. Mayor Jeremy Leis made a motion to approve the 12% levy along with the 2026 revised budget as presented. Councilmember … [Read more...]
Houston County Sets 7.905% Preliminary Levy
The Houston County Commissioners approved a 7.905% preliminary levy and adopted the 2026 budget at their regularly scheduled meeting on September 23. It was emphasized that the levy cannot increase once the preliminary levy is set, but it can decrease when it is finalized in December. The total levy, less County Program Aid (CPA), is $16,074,171. Administrator Carol Lapham … [Read more...]
Play Ball: Wykoff Fall Festival Hits It Out of the Park!
The Wykoff Fall Festival is stepping up to the plate this September 25-28, bringing a weekend of crowd-pleasing events, and all-ages of fun that’s sure to be a grand slam for the whole community. Festival organizers proudly boast that, “This year is bigger than ever!” This year’s annual classic is shaping up to be the biggest inning yet, as Wykoff celebrates the 150th … [Read more...]
Spring Grove School Board Approves Maximum Levy
The Spring Grove School Board approved setting the 2024 Payable 2025 Property Tax Levy Certification at the maximum level, on a motion by Board Member Rohland and seconded by Boardmember Olson at its board meeting on September 15. The Truth and Taxation hearing traditionally takes place in December prior to the regular school board meeting. Approving the maximum level … [Read more...]
Work Continues on Houston County’s 2026 Budget
Work on the Houston County 2026 budget continued during the September 16 commission meeting. Information Systems Director Andy Milde and Sheriff Brian Swedberg met with the commissioners to present their proposed budgets. Milde emphasized the importance of data security, noting that government organizations are frequent targets for cyber threats. Meanwhile, a key issue for … [Read more...]
The First Renovation Designs Unveiled at M-C Board Meeting
The Mabel-Canton School Board met on Tuesday, September 16, and were treated to several architectural drawings for the first time. These included the renderings for a new school entrance, CTE (Career and Technical Education) area, and locker rooms. Superintendent Gary Kuphal said that he and Michelle Weidemann meet every other week with ISG and Kraus-Anderson. Chair … [Read more...]
Fall Home and Garden: A Moving Experience
Moving a traditional farmhouse with a long history in Fillmore County was quite the experience for two local families. Brent and Brenda Afseth raised their two children, Cole and Marissa, in the farmhouse. When they decided to build a new home, they posted their old house on Marketplace, noting that it would need to be moved. Built in 1904, the two-story home had 1,602 … [Read more...]