“Are all men idiots?” That was a challenging question and one with epic consequences. It was my wife who had asked. I couldn’t pretend I hadn’t heard her. I’d just had my ears cleaned. It might have been the first time, although I’d had uncles blow smoke in an ear or two to quell an earache. Fortunately, my ears never became hooked on smoking. The nurse hit each ear canal … [Read more...]
Houston High School to get new gym projector
At the regular Houston School Board meeting on January 8, the board decided to proceed with the purchase of a new projector for the high school gym. Superintendent Mary Morem informed the board that it was not feasible to repair the current ancient projector. The new projector is an upgrade and has future capabilities; it will have a laser lens and no bulbs to replace. The … [Read more...]
State of city/community in Chatfield
Mayor Russ Smith commented on the state of the city and the community at Chatfield’s first council meeting of the new year held on January 9. He listed a number of improvements in the city, including the care center, remodeling of the Center for the Arts, and other development projects, which will improve the quality of life for many residents. There are other issues to be … [Read more...]
No feathers ruffled as City of Canton begins process to allow chickens in town
Canton residents Robert and Christina Schmidt approached the Canton City Council on Wednesday night, January 12, about owning chickens within city limits. Robert Schmidt explained he and his wife have 10 chickens at their Canton residence that they consider to be pets. “We hold them everyday, we play with them. They are part of our family,” he said. Schmidt explained he and … [Read more...]
Houston rezones lots to accommodate Apple Auto
At their regular January 10 meeting, the Houston City Council passed a resolution to rezone lots 6-9 in the Westgate Industrial Park from Industrial 1 to Commercial C-2. Kort Kistler, sales manager at Apple Auto explained that his company was working on purchasing the parcels, but wanted to make sure the zoning would allow for his business. He informed the council that the … [Read more...]
What will Minnesota do with a $7.7 billion budget surplus?
Right now, Minnesotans are talking about a huge pile of money – a projected $7.7 billion general fund budget surplus. That’s equivalent to $1,350.88 for each man, woman, and child in Minnesota, based on the U.S. Census Bureau’s estimated population of a little over 5.7 million. The money in Minnesota’s state government accounts gives the State Legislature plenty of dough to … [Read more...]
Harmony Council awards refuse and recycling contract
Representatives from Harter’s, Richard’s Sanitation, and Hanson Waste Removal were present at the January 11 Harmony City Council meeting to discuss contract options with the council. At the December meeting, the council had awarded the contract to Harter’s but approved a motion to reconsider. Both Harter’s and Richard’s Sanitation would switch residents over to using garbage … [Read more...]
Mabel to offer tree program again in 2022
Mabel’s City Council met on January 12, with all members participating (Adam Wilder, Corey Wilson, Kirsten Wyffels, Terry Torkelson, and City Clerk Karen Larson). Mayor Jim Westby participated via phone, so Wilder led the meeting. Also in attendance were Deputy Clerk Kendra Spalla and Jeff Rein. Spalla addressed the council, saying, “I just want to say thank you to the council … [Read more...]
Caledonia City Council chambers gets a facelift
Caledonia Council members returned after the holidays on January 10 to an incredible makeover in the council chambers. Accolades to the staff for all their work; walls, doors, and windowsills painted, carpet replaced, the Chamber desk repaired and painted, new desks purchased, and paperwork organized and filed. Council members in attendance included Mayor DeWayne “Tank” … [Read more...]
Whalan council sets Slate of Office for 2022
As the new year begins, the Whalan City Council performed it’s due diligence and set the Slate of Office for the City of Whalan for 2022, at their January 10 meeting. Present at the regularly scheduled city council meeting were Mayor Marlys Tuftin, council members Kim Berekvam, Thore E. Johnson, Sheila Higbe (via Zoom), Owen Lewis (via Zoom) and City Clerk/Treasurer Michele … [Read more...]