International Falls City Council Tackles Ambulance Service Challenges Amid Ongoing Community Needs

Overview: In the recent International Falls City Council meeting, attention was directed towards the future of the city’s ambulance service, while officials also tackled issues related to cannabis licensing, property negotiations, and the potential sale of city property. The council additionally addressed the need to appoint an interim police chief as part of broader governance efforts.

St. Peter City Council Unanimously Approves 2026 Budget Amid Discussions on Public Funding and Employee Wages

Overview: During its recent meeting, the St. Peter City Council approved the 2026 budget and tax levy, discussed potential increases in employee wages, and examined policy adjustments for the Paid Family Medical Leave Act. The council’s agenda included a variety of topics, but the primary focus was on financial matters, including the approval of a 6.9% increase in the city levy, which will lead to a modest rise in property taxes for local homeowners.

Madison Borough Council Weighs New Climate Action Recommendations and Leaf Blower Concerns

Overview: During the recent Madison Borough Council meeting, the council focused on climate action recommendations, leaf blower regulation, and various community and infrastructure projects. Discussions revolved around improving the borough’s electric utility management, responding to public concerns about gas-powered leaf blowers, and advancing sustainability initiatives.

Conway Weighs Cemetery Tree Removal Amidst Environmental Concerns and Historical Preservation

Overview: The Conway Selectboard meeting focused heavily on a controversial proposal to allocate $69,000 from the community preservation fund for the removal of large trees at Howland Cemetery, sparking extensive discussion on environmental impact, historical preservation, and the logistical challenges of such an undertaking. Additional topics included funding allocations for various town needs, including health insurance costs, electronic infrastructure upgrades, and public safety improvements.

Conway Selectboard Debates $69,000 Tree Removal in Historic Cemetery

Overview: During the Conway Selectboard meeting, the most discussed topic was the proposed allocation of $69,000 from the community preservation fund for the removal of several trees at Howland Cemetery. The trees, labeled as hazardous due to falling limbs during storms, pose potential threats to the graves below. The proposal was met with debate, particularly concerning the cost and the impact on the cemetery’s historical significance.