Commissioners Dewey Severson, Eric Johnson, Robert Burns, Teresa Walter, and Greg Myhre were all present via Zoom on June 1, 2021, for the regular meeting of the Houston County Commission. Chairman Burns called the meeting to order at 9 a.m. The meeting adjourned at 9:53 a.m. Commissioner Johnson led the Pledge of Allegiance. Commissioners approved the agenda and amended … [Read more...]
Ostrander to mull enforcement officer
The June 1 Ostrander City Council meeting found all members present: (Stephanie Start, Dan Hellerud, DJ Start, Vernon Thompson, Mayor Pam Kunert), along with Jeremy Runkle and City Clerk Wendy Brincks. The council heard from the city’s insurance provider agent (Ann Keim) who addressed the council about whether or not the city wishes to waive the torte limit. This determines … [Read more...]
2020 medical examiner services
Dr. R. Ross Reichard, M.D. reviewed statistics related to 2020 Fillmore County medical examination services at the Fillmore County Board’s June 1 meeting. The Southern Minnesota Regional Medical Examiner’s Office provides services for eight counties, including Fillmore. The number of deaths reported to the medical examiner in Fillmore County were 134. Sixty-eight percent of … [Read more...]
Rushford Village refinances under suggestion of planner
It’s been several years since Rushford Village has had financial planner Mike Bubany, of David Drown Associates, at a meeting. Typically, he’s brought on board to discuss cost impacts for project planning. This time, it was Bubany who approached the city with a cost savings proposal. “We’ve got a possibility of refinancing debt for the sole purpose of lowering payments. We can … [Read more...]
MN Veterans Cemetery-Preston benefits from community support
PRESTON, MN. – As the veterans cemetery in Preston prepares for Memorial Day, the staff also acknowledge the benefits of a caring and generous community. “We are so fortunate to receive support from the community,” says Cemetery Administrator Robert Gross. “One example is an electric vehicle that improves access to visitors.” The six-passenger electric vehicle donated in … [Read more...]
John Sylling new Spring Grove utility director
Mayor Scott Solberg called the Tuesday, May 25 regular meeting of the Spring Grove City Council to order at 6 p.m., Tuesday, May 25, at the Spring Grove Communications meeting room. Members in attendance were Travis Torgerson, Trent Turner, Karen Folstad, and Chad Rohland. The council unanimously approved the consent agenda. Open forum The council was asked why the city … [Read more...]
Make tracks to Whalan Depot
The historical Whalan Depot in Whalan, Minn. is once again welcoming customers and travelers after decades of being closed up. Although the people that come to Whalan no longer come by rail, they do arrive by many other modes of transportation, and the Whalan Depot will give visitors and local residents another destination location. Kim Berekvam, who also opened Loubelle’s … [Read more...]
Minnesota Bound films in Preston area
Ron Schara and his black labrador retriever, Raven have been a staple on the Minnesota television airwaves since 1995. His show, Minnesota Bound, has showcased many of the favorite outdoor pastimes and destinations of the state, sharing them with its many fans. Recently, Ron’s daughter, Laura Schara, visited the Preston area to film an episode featuring fly fishing in the … [Read more...]
Houston School Board year end updates and decisions
Joe Ruskey of Dependable Solutions appeared before the board at the regular Houston School Board meeting May 20, 2021, to update them on the district’s technology. Ruskey told the board that they were trying to set a four- to five- year rotation for Chromebooks with about $33,000 spent this year and $48,000 to $50,000 in the following years. In addition, $5,000 will be spent on … [Read more...]
Spring Valley senior parade set for June 3
The Spring Valley city council held a regular council meeting on May 24. All members were present (Luan Ruesink, Chris Danielson, Greg Brooks, John Dols and Mayor Tony Archer). Also attending was City Clerk/Administrator Deb Zimmer. No visitors were on hand to address the council on any topics. Spring Valley’s annual “Senior Parade” was discussed. Troy Lange explained, … [Read more...]