Liquor License Concerns Dominate Southwick Select Board Meeting

Overview: During the recent meeting of the Southwick Select Board, the main topic of discussion was the contentious liquor license renewal for Lake View Tavern. The establishment faced scrutiny due to late submissions of renewal applications, outstanding taxes, and incomplete inspections. These issues led to a consensus among board members that renewing the license under current conditions was inadvisable. The owner, who plans to transfer management to a more experienced individual, acknowledged these challenges but was unable to provide necessary documentation, including a certificate of good standing, due to the outstanding taxes. The board decided to postpone any decisions until the next meeting, allowing time for these issues to be addressed.

Belmar Borough Council Prepares for Affordable Housing Developments and Bids Farewell to Key Members

Overview: In the final meeting of 2025, the Belmar Borough Council addressed updates regarding affordable housing developments and bid farewell to outgoing council members. Progress was reported on the borough’s compliance with state affordable housing mandates, while departing council members reflected on their service.

Townsend Finance Committee Explores New Budget Software and Reconsiders Constable Role

Overview: In a recent Townsend Finance Committee meeting, members focused on evaluating budget software options and reconsidering the previously eliminated constable position. The committee discussed transitioning from Excel spreadsheets to more robust budgeting software and deliberated on the potential reinstatement of constables, which could offer cost savings over police officers for election duties.

New Ulm Secures $20,000 Grant for Critical Wellhead Protection Efforts

Overview: In a recent meeting of the New Ulm Public Utilities Commission, the city received a $20,000 grant from the Minnesota Department of Health aimed at supporting wellhead protection goals outlined in the 2017 plan. This funding will aid in the assessment and planning for the reconstruction of wells 22 and 23, a project expected to surpass the grant’s financial scope.

Norton Select Board Welcomes New DPW Director Amidst $1.5 Million Grant Announcement for Water Cleanup

Overview: In a notable development for the Norton Select Board meeting, the town was awarded a $1.5 million grant from the EPA to address emerging contaminants in the water supply, specifically targeting wells one and three along with enhancements at the water treatment plant. This comes as the town continues its efforts to resolve ongoing water quality issues, a topic that remains at the forefront of community concerns.