By Rich Wicks On April 4, a regular meeting of the Fountain City Council was held, with all members in attendance (Mayor Richard Kujath, Bryan Ostby, Jim Schott, David Gudmundson, Chad Wangen, and City Clerk Rhonda Flattum). The council discussed the idea of adopting the “Minnesota basic code” which would provide ordinances to cover the vast majority of issues a small city … [Read more...]
Thompson appointed to Ostrander council
During the Ostrander City Council meeting on April 3, Vernon Thompson was appointed to fill the vacancy on the council since Erin Volkart’s departure. The council heard from all three citizens interested in serving on the council. Jeremy Runkel explained to the council his interest in serving, stating, “I’ve got time, and I’m concerned about what happens in town.” Stephanie … [Read more...]
Journal team recognized with 14 awards at MFCP
On Friday, March 9, 2018, two Fillmore County Journal employees attended the Midwest Free Community Publications (MFCP) conference in Des Moines, Iowa, and hauled back 14 awards. The membership of MFCP encompasses 141 free distribution publications in nine states in the Midwest, including Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Nebraska, Ohio, South Dakota, and … [Read more...]
Give blood with the Red Cross during National Volunteer Month
The American Red Cross encourages eligible donors to give blood during National Volunteer Month this April. Donating blood is a simple way for those who are short on time to make a life-changing difference. Kay Whaley knows the impact of blood donations. When she was nine, she was in an accident and received many transfusions. That experience inspired her to become a blood … [Read more...]
Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation seeking applications for Early Childhood Literacy Grants
OWATONNA, MN, February 19, 2018 - Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF), in partnership with ABDO Publishing and Capstone, is accepting applications for the Early Childhood Literacy Grant Program. The Literacy Program is designed to support early literacy efforts that enhance school readiness for children birth to age five by providing children with books. … [Read more...]
Commissioners will soon decide on potential veterans home location
Commissioners discussed all the “ifs” related to a proposed state veterans home for Fillmore County at their March 27 meeting. During committee reports at the end of the meeting, commissioner Duane Bakke reported on a March 21 hearing held by the Minnesota State Government Finance Committee. Up to 240 veterans home beds have been authorized by the federal government for … [Read more...]
Mabel daycare gets closer to becoming a reality
The Mabel City Council held a special meeting on March 26 to determine financing for the proposed daycare center and a contractor to construct it. Mayor Jim Westby said that Foresight Bank of Plainview is willing to finance the $450,000 loan to the City at 4% for three years via General Obligation (GEO) Bonds. After the daycare is completed in September, the City will … [Read more...]
Chatfield City Manager?
Curt Sorenson, Charter committee chair and former Chatfield mayor, reported at the March 26 city council meeting that members of the Charter commission have proposed amending the city charter to add the position of “city manager.” During a public hearing, the issue that troubled some was the authority to hire and fire public employees that would be part of a city manager’s … [Read more...]
Fillmore Central Kindergarten Round-up on April 3
The Fillmore Central Elementary School will have its annual Kindergarten Round-up Information Meeting for parents and visitation for students on Tuesday, April 3 at 6:30 p.m. in the elementary gym. Please use elementary entrance. Fillmore Central School is all day everyday kindergarten Parents whose children will be attending kindergarten during the 2018-19 school year are … [Read more...]
Vacant home in Spring Valley burns
On March 17, 2018, at approximately 2:44 p.m., the Fillmore County Sheriff’s Office Emergency Communications received multiple 911 calls reporting a house fire at the corner of Courtland St. and Huron Ave (308 W. Courtland) in Spring Valley. Spring Valley Fire, Spring Valley Ambulance, and the Fillmore County Deputy working the City of Spring Valley all responded. Upon arrival, … [Read more...]