Fillmore and Houston counties, which faced a drought last year, are now contending with excessive rainfall this summer. The change in weather resulted in flooding in both counties. Neither county has reported any injuries due to flooding. However, both counties are experiencing significant cleanup efforts and are replacing gravel on roadways due to runoff. Fillmore County … [Read more...]
Houston County Human Resources Director Tess Kruger Announces Retirement
After the regularly scheduled Houston County Commission meeting on July 2, Human Resources Director Tess Kruger shared a copy of a letter she gave to the commissioners on Monday, July 1, announcing her retirement effective September 6. In her official letter, Kruger proudly stated, “I have spent 36 years in public service, and it has been a pleasure to have served the … [Read more...]
Village Wades Through Flood Damage
At the July 2 Rushford Village meeting, the council learned the extent of the flooding from three days of flooding that began June 21. “There’s definitely been plenty of excitement there,” said Public Works Supervisor Trenten Chiglo. Issues began with the lift station where one float was non-functioning and the station saw high water over the weekend. As of the meeting, … [Read more...]
Lanesboro Council Considers Ordinance Amendments
At the July 1 meeting, Lanesboro resident Bonita Underbakke addressed the council to consider a proposed expansion of the minimum lot size. Underbakke felt that it would make building in Lanesboro less affordable. The consent agenda was approved and included the accounts payable, a donation to the Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation, a city office closure on July 5, a … [Read more...]
Rushford Rezones Former Windswept Inn
Following a public hearing on June 12, the Rushford City Council approved rezoning the former Windswept Inn at their regular June 24 council meeting. The new owners, PPS Properties, LLC., intend to create apartments rather than operate a motel. The zoning has been changed from Arterial Commercial to Multi-Family Housing. The plan is to create eight efficiency apartments from … [Read more...]
30-Day No Wake Zone in Place Along the Mississippi River
At its June 25 commission meeting, Houston County Commissioners authorized a temporary 30-day emergency no wake zone on the Mississippi River within the county. Sheriff Brian Swedberg explained that he spoke with County Attorney Samuel Jandt, and they proposed extending the no wake zone to cover the entire Mississippi within Houston County during flood conditions. It will be … [Read more...]
Spring Grove Discusses Virtual Learning
Spring Grove Public School board members met Monday, June 24 at Spring Grove School’s Learning Resource Center room. Chairman Aaron Solum called the meeting to order at 7:02 p.m. then conducted roll call. Board members present included Solum, Stephanie Jaster, Kelly Rohland, Aric Elton and Rhan Flatin. Board member Angie Solie attended the meeting virtually. District employees … [Read more...]
Fillmore County Planning Commission Hears Rezoning and Quarry Expansion Requests
At the June 20 meeting of the Fillmore County Planning Commission, public hearings were held on a rezoning request and a conditional use permit application. Peter Swartzentruber, section 5 of Preston Township, applied to rezone his property from Ag to General Commercial (B-1). The property is on the edge of the east city limits of Preston. Swartzentruber, who was not present … [Read more...]
Caledonia Mayor Schroeder Not Seeking Re-election
Mayor DeWayne (Tank) Schroeder confirmed that he is not seeking re-election at the June 24, 2024, regularly scheduled meeting of the Caledonia City Council. As discussed in a prior council meeting, Councilmember Amanda Ninneman has confirmed her candidacy for re-election, while Councilmember Robert (Bob) Klug has yet to announce his decision regarding re-election. Mayor … [Read more...]
Chatfield Approves Motorized Golf Cart Ordinance
After considerable discussion during past city council meetings, Ordinance 471 was approved at the city council’s June 24 meeting. Councilor Dave Frank was absent. This ordinance regulates the use of motorized golf carts on public streets and public areas within the city. A permit is required for the operator; the issuance and use of a disabled permit is allowed in certain … [Read more...]