The Fillmore County planning commission has been developing language for a Renewable Energy Ordinance over the last several months. EDA director Marty Walsh had been directed to do some research on transmission lines and related capacity. He offered more information on the possible development of a 50 megawatt solar farm at the commission’s July 26 meeting. In regard to the … [Read more...]
Fountain rescinds motion; puts chicken ordinance on November ballot
After months of discussing whether or not to allow the keeping of chickens within city limits, the Fountain Council has taken steps to put the issue on the general election ballot Tuesday, November 6. Resident Emily Root first approached the council in May with a detailed plan for a secure coop in which to house 10 hens. At the time, the council did not have further questions … [Read more...]
Rep. Greg Davids honored as a 2018 Legislator of Distinction
July 17, 2018 — Saint Paul, MN, The League of Minnesota Cities has recognized 25 state lawmakers, including Representative Greg Davids, as 2018 Legislators of Distinction. Chosen legislators are honored for specific actions that aided efforts of Minnesota cities during the past year’s legislative session. Legislators of Distinction are approved annually by the League’s Board … [Read more...]
Swimming pool bonding proposal presented
Mike Bubany, David Drown Associates, presented a recommendation for the structure of General Obligation Bonds for the Swimming Pool Project during the Chatfield City Council’s July 23 meeting. The bonds were authorized (up to $4.4 million) by voters in a referendum in the November 2017 special election. Total capital costs, contingencies (additional needs like security … [Read more...]
State gains 6,600 jobs in June Overall unemployment rate steady at 3.1%, total jobs surpass 2.96 million, most in state history
Minnesota employers added 6,600 jobs in June, according to seasonally adjusted figures released today by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED). In addition, the agency said May’s employment figures were revised from 10,200 jobs gained to 10,700 jobs gained. Over the past year, Minnesota employers have added 45,517 jobs, a growth rate of 1.5%. … [Read more...]
County approves donation for veterans home
The July 24 county board meeting was attended by numerous veterans, demonstrating their support for the veterans home. The board’s agenda included a request for a veterans home donation. Commissioner Duane Bakke said the process for the veterans home is moving forward. The legislature approved $10.2 million for the Preston site in its bonding bill. Every local dollar brought … [Read more...]
Spring Valley limits ATV usage
The Spring Valley City Council held a public hearing and a regular council meeting on July 23, with all members present (Tony Archer, Todd Jones, Mayor Jim Struzyk, Jessy Betts, Mike Hadland and city administrator Deb Zimmer). The public hearing was opened at 6 p.m. regarding the council’s proposal to regulate ATV usage within city limits. No citizens attended to address the … [Read more...]
Rushford planning 2019 street and utility improvements; discussion on school sale
The City of Rushford has spent the last decade working to develop and proceed with a plan for maintenance and upgrading of streets and underground utility. Spurred by needs following the 2007 flood, the city has undertaken several sizable projects and another is potentially just around the corner. The city’s engineer, Bolton & Menk, presented an updated plan at the Monday, … [Read more...]
Lanesboro school board sets date for second community meeting
At the July 19 meeting of Lanesboro School Board, it was shared that the facilities committee has narrowed down the scope of the upcoming project to update, add to, and renovate Lanesboro public school and are ready for a second community meeting to discuss the plans with the public. Community members will also get the chance to see how their feedback at the first meeting had … [Read more...]
Mabel-Canton joint meeting held
On July 24, an informal “joint meeting” was held between the Mabel-Canton School Board and the city councils of Mabel and Canton. Attending the meeting were Canton council members Charlie Warner and Donivee Johnson, school board members Diane Wilder, Chris Miller, Jason Marquardt, Chris Loppnow, Superintendent Gary Kuphal and Principal Michelle Weidemann, and Mabel council … [Read more...]