Fillmore County Journal

"Where Fillmore County News Comes First"

County to move forward with jail needs study

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At the November 26 County Board meeting, the future of the county jail was again discussed. A contract with Tom Weber, independent contractor, to assist with a jail needs study was approved. The contract with the consultant/facilitator will run from December 1, 2019, to November 30, 2020. Sheriff John DeGeorge said we need someone during the needs study to ask the right … [Read more...]

Hunting never gets old

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John Finke, Cherry Grove, Minn., had a successful hunt Saturday, November 9, 2019.  John has hunted over the years and has harvested several deer.  It is always an exciting hunt when you come home with a deer!  This year was an especially special time, as John is 89 years old and had to walk a little slower and try a little harder to bring a deer home.  Jon East accompanied … [Read more...]

Christmas in Fillmore County is a good way to give locally

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As the name would suggest, Christmas in Fillmore County is an annual giving program that’s been helping needy citizens of the county for over 30 years.  Recently, Samantha Payne (Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development) and Lynn Mensink (Outreach Case Manager, Semcac) sat down to tell about the program, and its history.  Mensink stated, “The Rural Concerns Taskforce … [Read more...]

“Joy to the World” Christmas Music Open House at Faith Church, Spring Valley

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There will be a festive Christmas Open House on December 4 from 6-8 p.m. at Faith United Methodist Church in Spring Valley.  We will celebrate the sounds of Christmas by singing, piano music, handbell ringing, and other instrumental groups!  It will be uplifting and fun!  Christmas treats will be served in the fellowship hall area.  There is no cost for this happy Christmas … [Read more...]

Results of the Harmony Community Chest 2019 charity drive

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The 2019 Harmony Community Chest Drive has been completed. The total for Community Chest funds was $5,735, similar to last year’s total. Of this, $5,600 was distributed, with $150 going for expenses and $35 to cover any additional expenses. Proceeds from the Drive are given to local and regional organizations and charities.  The disbursement of funds to organizations went … [Read more...]

Minnesota unemployment holds at 3.2%

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According to data released today by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate held at 3.2% in October. The national seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for October increased to 3.6%.  Minnesota added 7,400 jobs in the month of October. Meanwhile, September’s employment growth was revised up to 1,600 … [Read more...]

Clarification

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To clarify a portion of the November 18, 2019, article titled “Mabel to accept credit/debit card payments,” during the council meeting on November 13, when discussing whether to purchase chains or new tires for the city’s payloader, Councilmember Gary Morken advocated for ways to lessen the cost, such as only buying one pair of chains, or by buying the chain components and then … [Read more...]

Chatfield grows its tax capacity

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At the November 25 Chatfield City Council meeting, City Clerk Joel Young reviewed the proposed 2020 budget/levy and financial plans for years into the future. Councilor Paul Novotny was absent. A reduction of $42,500 has been made since the preliminary budget numbers were approved. Young explained three items are notable for the effect they have on budget increases for … [Read more...]

Fillmore Central grad raises concerns about ADA accessibility

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Fillmore Central graduate Taryn Raaen attended the November 26 Fillmore Central School Board meeting to discuss the lack of accessibility to the weight room. She pointed out that the school is not ADA compliant because of the stairs leading to the weight room. Raaen suggested that it be moved to the stage area in the old gym and the theater department be moved into its own … [Read more...]