The Spring Valley City Council met in regular session on March 9, with all members present (Mayor Tony Archer, Luan Ruesink, Chris Danielson, John Dols, Mike Hadland and City Administrator Deb Zimmer). The council considered two requests for conditional use permits (CUPs) within the city. The first request was from Holly Hutchens, to be allowed to run a ballet studio at 112 … [Read more...]
Coronavirus update
At the March 10 Fillmore County Board meeting, Jessica Erickson, director of nursing, reported on COVID-19, the new strain of coronavirus. Erickson reported that there were two cases in Minnesota, one in Ramsey County and one in Carver County. Later this day there was a third case reported in Anoka County. It takes two to 14 days after exposure for a person to show … [Read more...]
Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation in partnership with local Ace Hardware stores offer free paint for community projects
Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF), in partnership with 12 local Ace Hardware stores, will be accepting applications for free paint and coating products for community mural, community welcome sign, or historic structure projects through its Paint the Town Grant program. This grant opportunity is available to communities with a population under 10,000 throughout … [Read more...]
Ostrander hears clean audit report
During the Ostrander City Council meeting on March 10, the council heard an annual audit report given by Andrew Forliti, representing Smith Schafer & Associates, Ltd. Council members in attendance included Stephanie Start, DJ Start, Vernon Thompson, Mayor Pam Kunert, and city clerk Wendy Brincks. Dan Hellerud was absent. Forliti summarized that the audit resulted in an … [Read more...]
Red Cross urges healthy individuals to give blood amid coronavirus concerns Low donor turnout could hurt U.S. blood supply
The American Red Cross strongly urges healthy, eligible individuals who are feeling well to give blood to help maintain a sufficient blood supply and prevent shortages as concerns about the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019, or COVID-19, rise in the U.S. Cold and flu season has already impacted the nation’s ability to maintain its blood supply. As the number of … [Read more...]
Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation seeking applications for Early Literacy Grants Applications due April 6
Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF), in partnership with publishing companies Capstone and ABDO, is accepting applications for the Early Literacy Grant Program. This grant is designed to support early literacy efforts that enhance school readiness for children birth to age five by providing children with books. Organizations working with these children in SMIF’s … [Read more...]
LACF announces annual banquet with special guest speaker
The Lanesboro Area Community Foundation (LACF) announces its Annual Banquet including a special guest speaker. The LACF Annual Dinner is scheduled for Sunday, April 5, 2020. Social hour and silent auction will begin at 4:30 p.m., with dinner and guest speaker starting at 5:30 p.m. in the Lanesboro Community Center. The LACF Board of Directors is proud to announce the … [Read more...]
Fountain wastewater plant runs into pH problems
Discouraging news for the City of Fountain, as low pH numbers continue to show up during wastewater treatment plant testing. Having worked for several years to establish and implement a plan to bring its plant back into compliance with the state, the news is discouraging. Public Works, working with Mike Morris, of MMS Environmental, has been able to maintain compliance, but its … [Read more...]
Kingsland Board takes “Funding 101”
On March 2, the Kingsland School Board met for their monthly “work session.” Members present included Board Chair Jackie Horsman, Maranda Emig, Natasha Howard, Noella Lund, and Kyle Rader. Superintendent James Hecimovich, Business Manager Amber uhlenhake and Principal Scott Klavetter were also in attendance. Tiffany Mundfrom was absent. The board heard a presentation … [Read more...]
Future ownership of Crown Hill Cemetery
Crown Hill Cemetery Association members updated the Preston City Council on cemetery financial issues at the council’s March 2 meeting. Kevin Ostern recalled that they had first approached the city council in July of 2017 about the dwindling financial resources and the possibility of the city taking over ownership and maintenance of the cemetery. City Administrator Joe … [Read more...]