St. Francis Area School Board Faces Concerns on Educational Assistants’ Pay and Library Resources

Overview: The recent St. Francis Area School Board meeting was dominated by discussions on the critical roles of educational assistants (EAs) and the state of library resources within the district. Public comments highlighted the indispensable contributions of EAs to the educational environment, calling for increased recognition and compensation, while a report on library conditions revealed outdated collections and declining circulation among older students.

Coon Rapids City Council Allocates Funds to Autotheft Prevention and Housing Programs

Overview: The Coon Rapids City Council meeting on September 15, 2025, addressed issues including the acceptance of grants for autotheft prevention and DWI enforcement, an amendment to the housing budget, and updates to the parks and recreation master plan. The council also amended the city’s ice center fees and approved a gambling premises permit for the Rapids Cardinal Little League.

Spring Lake Park School Board Discusses Significant Bond Savings and Student Achievement Trends

Overview: During the recent meeting of the Spring Lake Park School Board, the discussion of the general obligation school building refunding bonds series 2025A emerged as the most significant topic. The board evaluated the pre-sale report presented by Amy Schultz, Executive Director of Business Services, and Aaron Bushberger from Ellers, the municipal advisor. The potential refinancing is projected to save taxpayers upwards of $800,000, surpassing the board’s established minimum savings threshold of $500,000. The refinancing process, akin to mortgage refinancing, leverages the state’s credit enhancement program, which offers cost-effective benefits without additional charges.

Anoka-Hennepin Faces Tough Decisions on Literacy Program Amid Budget Cuts

Overview: The Anoka-Hennepin School Board meeting on September 8, 2025, was dominated by discussions on budget constraints and the potential impact on literacy intervention programs. The district is grappling with the necessity to trim approximately $8 million from its budget, stirring concerns over how these cuts could affect critical educational services.

East Bethel City Council Clashes Over Long-Standing Facility Use Dispute with BDM Construction

Overview: During the recent East Bethel City Council meeting, discussions were dominated by a contentious dispute with BDM Construction over the use of city-owned facilities, alongside deliberations on the 2026 preliminary budget and levy, and the introduction of a new peer support program for public safety personnel. The council also addressed the probationary period extension for the city planner, variance requests for a property owned by Troy and Lorie Slater, and rezoning plans for Cliffs Anderson Acres.