Sheriff John DeGeorge, Emergency Management director Don Kullot, and Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) manager Jon Whitney addressed the county board at their February 27 meeting. They requested approval to purchase the Vesta Next Generation 911 phone system to make the county Next Generation 911 compliant. The one-time cost for system setup in the amount of $40,283.61 … [Read more...]
Fillmore Central Kids Celebrate “I Love to Read Month”
At the February 27 Fillmore Central school board meeting, Superintendent Heath Olstad reported that I Love to Read Month is wrapping up. The students experienced fun events and programs, dress up days and more to celebrate over the month of February. Thanks were extended to the Preston Fire Department for their donation that will allow each student to receive a free book at the … [Read more...]
Caledonia Council Meeting Short on Attendance
In an unusual turn of events, neither Caledonia Mayor DeWayne (Tank) Schroeder nor former Mayor Robert (Bob) Burns could recall a time when the Caledonia City Council lacked a quorum for a council meeting. However, on Monday evening, February 26, 2024, it happened. With only the mayor and Councilmember David Fitzpatrick present, the council found itself without the required … [Read more...]
Chatfield Approves Updates for Wastewater Treatment Facility
At the February 26 meeting of the Chatfield city council, Steve Schlichter, WWTF superintendent, explained the current UV disinfection system is 18 years old and parts are no longer available and/or difficult to find. Councilor Mike Urban was absent. Schlichter recommended the lower of two quotes submitted by Great Northern Environmental in the amount of $145,000 for … [Read more...]
Caucus Night for DFL and GOP
On the eve of Tuesday, February 27, 2024, politically interested individuals gathered at caucus precincts throughout the State of Minnesota. In total, caucuses were held in 4,002 precincts across the state. This grassroots process presents an opportunity for residents to share their thoughts with hopes of influencing which candidates and issues gain support for their … [Read more...]
Rushford Village Maintenance Work Continues
At the February 20 meeting, the Rushford Village Council learned from Public Works Supervisor that upgrades for the maintenance shed are nearing completion. The budget for 2024 includes $20,000 for it and projected work includes blown-in insulation, steel and equipment rental for the insulation. Estimates included for insulation and accessories were $8,532, while steel walls … [Read more...]
Mindy Jones Jailed Prior to Sentencing
Mindy Jo Jones was scheduled to appear in Fillmore County District Court for sentencing on Monday, February 12, but was unable to appear due to a medical emergency. Due to Jones’ unavailability on Monday, February 12, a continuance of the sentencing hearing was scheduled for February 16. Found Guilty Fillmore County Judge Jeremy L. Clinefelter found Mindy Jo Jones guilty … [Read more...]
Preston Approves CUP for Vacation Rental
The Preston City Council, at their February 20 meeting, continued the discussion that began during the Planning Commission meeting, regarding a conditional use permit (CUP) application submitted by Pauline Orban to use her single-family home for boarding and lodging. The Planning Commission held a public hearing prior to the council meeting and recommended approval of the … [Read more...]
Mabel-Canton’s Kuphal Not Giving Up
At the February 20 Mabel-Canton School Board meeting, Superintendent Gary Kuphal updated the board on the latest interactions with Decorah School District. Decorah declined to meet with the Mabel-Canton full board as Kuphal had requested in a recent letter sent to all Decorah board members. “They have resisted any effort so far,” Kuphal explained. Kuphal stated that … [Read more...]
Amish Buggy Accident – Hit and Run
According to the Fillmore County Sheriff’s Office, on Friday, February 16, 2024, at approximately 10:05 p.m., the department received 911 calls indicating there was a crash in the 29000 block of County Road 1 in rural Spring Valley, Minn. The news release stated, “Initial reports indicated that a vehicle had struck and Amish buggy with several occupants. Deputies responded to … [Read more...]