The Houston School Board met for its regular meeting at 6 p.m. on Thursday, February 1 in the library of Houston Public High School. In attendance were Superintendent Abraham and Board members Norlien, Bonner, Stillin, Evenson, Lundak and Carlson. Following the Pledge of Allegiance, the board unanimously approved the evening’s agenda along with a resolution for a closed … [Read more...]
PeopleService addresses Ostrander concerns
A regular meeting of the Ostrander city council was held on February 6, with all members in attendance (Pam Kunert, Mayor Pat Nesler, City Clerk Wendy Brincks, and Heidi Jones and DJ Start). Rick Whitney (PeopleService) addressed the council regarding issues that he’s heard have been concerns, related to PeopleService’s work at the Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP). He … [Read more...]
Mabel sets fee for snow removal violators
At its February meeting, Mabel council members voted on a standard rate that will be charged to businesses and residents who are not in compliance with the snow removal ordinance. The city ordinance states that snow must be removed from sidewalks within 24 hours after a snowfall. If the snow is not removed, the city has the right to remove the snow at the property owner’s … [Read more...]
County reports its legislative priorities
Rep. Greg Davids and Senator Jeremy Miller were at the February 6 county board meeting to hear the county’s legislative priorities for the 2018 legislative session. County Coordinator Bobbie Vickerman thanked legislators for 2017 legislation that stabilized and added funding for county program aid. Fillmore County’s CPA increased by $90,000. The county noted its opposition … [Read more...]
State Auditor Otto releases report on city finances
ST. PAUL, MN – State Auditor Rebecca Otto released the 2016 Minnesota City Finances Report on December 28, 2017. The report summarizes, through data tables and charts, the financial operations of 850 Minnesota cities for calendar year 2016. “The City Finances report is issued each year to help local government officials, policy makers, and the public better understand city … [Read more...]
Preston purchase agreement with Dairy & Farm
Preston City Attorney Dwight Luhmann discussed proposed updates to a purchase agreement for the Dairy & Farm property at the February 5 meeting. Originally, the proposed purchase price was $100,000. Dairy & Farm now wants $115,000 for the property; the additional funds requested are to help pay for the remediation, clean-up of the property. The city wants Dairy & … [Read more...]
Fountain looks to policy changes ahead of utility increases
Following up on discussion from an informational community meeting held January 10, the Fountain City Council considered two utility related changes at its Wednesday, February 7 meeting. The city is planning utility rate increases and changes to usage minimums for sewer and water. City Clerk Ronda Flattum suggested consideration for the handling of past due notices and … [Read more...]
Lanesboro council agrees to hold public hearing for Zenith Street paving project
Brian Malm presented a feasibility study for the proposed Zenith Street paving project to the Lanesboro City Council at their February 5 meeting. The study was done because of a petition presented to the city by the homeowners who live on the gravel stretch of Zenith Street. The study gave two estimates for the project, one with 100% assessments to the homeowners and the … [Read more...]
Canton Veterans Memorial taking shape
In small towns, it can be a challenge to find enough people and/or funding to get things done. This is an ongoing challenge regarding the Canton Veterans Memorial, but Nick Prestby is spearheading the efforts. And, he expects 2018 to be the year when things really take shape. He said, “My projection is to try to get it all done before the big five-year celebration in … [Read more...]
TEXT-TO-911 now available in Minnesota statewide A direct line to help for those with hearing loss; Alternative when the reporting party must remain quiet to stay safe
ST. PAUL — In an emergency, dialing 911 is a call for help. But people with hearing loss or those who must remain quiet in a dangerous situation aren’t able to place a call safely or at all. That’s why the Department of Public Safety Emergency Communication Networks (DPS-ECN) has worked with stakeholders around Minnesota to develop Text-to-911 on Minnesota’s Next Generation … [Read more...]