St. Paul City Council Deliberates on Budget, Public Safety, and River Corridor Amendments

Overview: The St. Paul City Council meeting focused on budget approvals, public safety funding, and amendments related to the Mississippi River Corridor. The council also addressed concerns surrounding community engagement and the implications of ordinance changes, emphasizing transparency and collaboration in decision-making processes.

Yarmouth Planning Board Deliberates on New Library Site Amidst Parking and Design Challenges

Overview: The Yarmouth Planning Board meeting on December 3, 2025, was dominated by discussions on the proposed new library project, focusing on site selection, parking issues, and architectural design. Despite initial challenges, the library building committee has made progress in selecting a suitable site, addressing parking requirements, and navigating design complexities to meet the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners’ deadlines.

St. Paul Library Board Approves 2026 Budget with Key Restorations and Private Support

Overview: The St. Paul Library Board approved the 2026 budget, emphasizing the restoration of library services and the role of private funding. A crucial part of the budget includes maintaining library hours and bolstering library collections, partially funded by private contributions from the Friends of the Saint Paul Public Library.

Cannon Falls Tackles Lead Service Line Notifications and “Forever Chemicals” Amid Community Concerns

Overview: The Cannon Falls City Council meeting on December 2nd addressed several topics, with a substantial focus on infrastructure and environmental issues. The council discussed the city’s ongoing efforts to manage lead service lines and the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), known as “forever chemicals,” in the city’s wastewater discharge.

Beltrami County Faces Funding Challenges: Libraries and Tax Increases at the Forefront

Overview: During a recent Beltrami County Board of Commissioners meeting, the issues of library funding and a proposed property tax levy increase dominated the agenda. The board grappled with budgetary constraints, state mandates, and the implications of a 9.63% property tax levy increase. Public comments underscored concerns about significant cuts to essential services, including libraries, amid ongoing fiscal pressures.