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
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
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
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...]
Preston Lions Club celebrates 75 years
In the grasslands of Africa, a group of lions is called a “pride.” The term “pride” also definitely fits when talking about a group of Lions that prowl the Preston area. The local Lions Club has been proudly serving since 1944, and on November 22, 2019, they held an open house for the community to help commemorate their milestone anniversary. The event included refreshments … [Read more...]
Rushford takes input on UTV/ATV usage
The City of Rushford is in the early stages of researching the potential benefits and ramifications of allowing the use of certain recreational vehicles within the city limits. Currently, Class 1 all-terrain vehicles and Class 2 utility task vehicles are not allowed on Minnesota State Highways, three of which converge in Rushford. Additionally, the state DNR law does not allow … [Read more...]
Vacant seat on Lanesboro School Board filled
At the November 21 Lanesboro School Board meeting, Sarah Peterson was nominated to fill the vacant seat on the board left by Lolly Melander. Melander resigned in September after serving on the board for nearly nine years. A roll call vote to appoint Peterson passed unanimously. Steve Storhoff was nominated and appointed as the board treasurer to replace Melander. The … [Read more...]
Mabel-Canton Booster Club receives award
The Mabel-Canton Booster Club was nominated by Village Farm and Home in Mabel for a $500 award from Sioux Steel Company. The company awards eight monetary gifts each year to a non-profit that makes a difference in their community. The Mabel-Canton Booster Club contributes to all aspects of student activities at Mabel-Canton Schools. They have helped with athletics, arts, choir … [Read more...]
Spring Valley Library donation bins removed
Spring Valley City Council held a regular meeting on November 25. Members present included Mayor Tony Archer, Luan Ruesink, Chris Danielson, John Dols, and City Administrator Deb Zimmer. Mike Hadland was in his sheriff’s department uniform, so although he was in the room, he was not performing in his role on the council. No citizens asked to address the council. Library … [Read more...]
Maddie Smith represents U of M in Minnesota Farm Bureau Collegiate Discussion Meet
Maddie Smith, from Preston and attending the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities, majoring in agricultural education and agricultural communications and marketing, qualified for the final four in the Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) Collegiate Discussion Meet during the MFBF 101st Annual Meeting at the DoubleTree Hotel in Bloomington November 23. The Collegiate … [Read more...]