Newport City Council Tightens Cannabis Regulations Amid Development Challenges and Infrastructure Issues

Overview: The Newport City Council meeting on December 19, 2024, tackled issues ranging from cannabis business regulations to local development challenges and infrastructure concerns. The council explored measures for cannabis and hemp retail businesses, discussed the extension of a development project facing economic hurdles, and addressed infrastructure repair efforts following a water main break.

Stillwater School Board Faces Community Divide Over Identity Harm Protocols

Overview: At a recent Stillwater Area School Board meeting, the proposed identity harm protocols became a focal point of discussion, highlighting community division on how bullying related to identity should be addressed. The protocols aim to address bullying based on race, gender, religion, and other aspects of identity, with opinions sharply split between those advocating for their implementation and those questioning their necessity and effectiveness.

Stillwater Area School Board Addresses Racial Harassment Settlement and Anti-Bullying Initiatives

Overview: The Stillwater Area School Board meeting highlighted a $65,000 settlement with the Pine City public school district over racial harassment claims involving a seventh-grade student, alongside in-depth discussions on enhancing anti-bullying protocols and fostering a supportive school culture.

Mahtomedi School Board Approves Significant Tax Levy Increase Amid Budget Challenges

Overview: The Mahtomedi School Board meeting on December 16th highlighted financial discussions, including the approval of a substantial increase in the district’s tax levy for the 2025-2026 school year. The meeting also addressed the departure of personnel and approved a new lease agreement for the district’s transition program.

Mahtomedi School Board Approves Significant Tax Levy Increase Amid Budget Challenges