The Chatfield City Council, after considerable debate, voted to open the swimming pool to everyone, at their June 16 special meeting. The motion was approved by a 4-1 vote (Mike Urban voted no). The pool will be open to everyone, the “Open to Chatfield School District Only” sign will be removed. Starting Friday June 19, everyone must have an account with MyRec and all funds … [Read more...]
2018 Audit Presentation
The Fillmore County Board met in person with the availability of electronic participation for their June 9 meeting. The 2018 audit prepared by CliftonLarsonAllen, LLC was presented by Craig Popenhagen, Laura Buechner, and Miranda Wendlandt. The county received an unmodified, clean, opinion on its financial statements. The 2018 audit was delayed, normally it should be filed … [Read more...]
Swimming Pool Preparedness Plan approved
At the June 8 Chatfield City Council meeting, a COVID-19 Preparedness Plan was approved for the swimming pool, which is one of the last steps needed to open the pool. Brian Burkholder said the pool has been inspected and once the Preparedness Plan is submitted to Olmsted County the pool could open at 50% capacity (189 people). The plan details how the pool will operate during … [Read more...]
Preston 2021 street and utility improvements
City Engineer Brett Grabau reviewed the feasibility report for potential 2021 street and utility improvements at the Preston City Council’s June 1 meeting. Grabau explained the report was put together to give the council the ability to pick and choose project areas to keep within financial limitations they had set some months ago. The city’s capital financing plan was updated … [Read more...]
Interim county assessor’s final report
Winona County’s Assessor Stephen Hacken served as an interim assessor for Fillmore County for four months. A letter he sent to the Fillmore Board of Commissioners was reviewed at the board’s June 6 meeting. He began by thanking the board and employees for their support during this time. Hacken used his time with Fillmore County to help the department’s staff and to add … [Read more...]
City Charter amendment discussed
The Charter Commission has recommended certain amendments to the Charter of the city of Chatfield. A public hearing was held regarding the commission’s proposal at the May 26 city council meeting held via WebEx. The Charter Commission is an independent/separate body made up of 15 Chatfield citizens. When the commission makes a recommendation to the city council to amend the … [Read more...]
Public access to Fillmore County facilities as of June 1
The Fillmore County Board met on May 26 via WebEx. COVID-19 issues were attached to almost every item on the agenda. A third extension of the county’s State of Emergency for continuing operations regarding the coronavirus was approved unanimously, extending the declaration to June 23. Public access to county facilities will be allowed as of June 1. Safety precautions will … [Read more...]
Approval recommended for electric substation upgrade
The Fillmore County Planning Commission met via WebEx for their May 21 meeting. A conditional use permit applied for by ITC Midwest, LLC to rebuild an existing substation in Sumner Township was considered. During the public hearing David Gross, representing ITC Midwest, explained they are proposing to rebuild an existing substation. They will be adding additional land … [Read more...]
Preston extends liquor licenses to outdoor seating
The Preston City Council held a special meeting, via Go To Meeting, on May 26. A third amendment to the option agreement with the state of Minnesota was approved unanimously for the property that could be the future location of a veterans home. The option agreement was to expire on May 31. A regular Preston City Council meeting will be held on June 1. However, the state did … [Read more...]
Preston designated as TelecommuterForward city
The Preston City Council, during their May 18 meeting, unanimously supported the Economic Development Authority (EDA) recommendation for Preston to become a Minnesota city with a TelecommuterForward! Community Certification. City Administrator Joe Hoffman explained that the EDA will coordinate with telecommuting stakeholders, including broadband providers, realtors, economic … [Read more...]