St. Pete Beach Faces Permit Delays Amid Hurricane Recovery and Infrastructure Challenges

Overview: The recent St. Pete Beach City Commission meeting concentrated on several issues, including significant delays in permit processing and ongoing community recovery efforts following hurricane damage. The city is grappling with the aftermath of storms, with concerns ranging from permit processing inefficiencies to the complexities involved in infrastructure upgrades and the regulation of short-term rentals.

Kandiyohi County Faces Budget Strain Amid Rising Property Taxes and Costly Youth Crisis Services

Overview: The Kandiyohi County Board of Commissioners meeting on December 2, 2025, primarily addressed the county’s financial challenges, including a proposed 7.1% levy increase and the substantial financial strain on youth crisis services. Public concern over rising property taxes dominated the Truth and Taxation hearing, with residents expressing frustration over the doubling of taxes in recent years. Additionally, the board discussed increasing rates for youth crisis services at Woodland Centers to manage a significant operational deficit.

Delanco Town Council Celebrates Longtime Clerk’s Retirement Amid Student Involvement and Infrastructure Updates

Overview: The Delanco Town Council meeting on December 1, 2025, centered on the retirement of Janice Lur, the municipal clerk, after 33 years of service, as well as the introduction of newly elected student officials and various infrastructure project updates.

Lakeville Select Board Approves Route 79 Road Project and Discusses Resource Impact of Data Centers

Overview: The Lakeville Select Board meeting on December 2, 2025, focused on approving significant infrastructure projects, revising environmental policies, and addressing potential impacts of future data centers on local resources. Key decisions included the approval of the Route 79 roadway improvement project, adoption of a revised environmentally preferred products policy, and discussions on earth removal bylaws and data center regulations.

Halifax Moves Forward with Mental Health Initiative Despite Financial Concerns

Overview: The Halifax Board of Selectmen meeting on December 2, 2025, was marked by notable decisions on enhancing mental health services and community engagement. The board approved a collaborative intermunicipal agreement to participate in a mental health clinician program, funded through a recently secured grant by Kingston. This initiative, involving the towns of Kingston, Plimpton, and Halifax, aims to restart a co-response program that had previously ended. The agreement includes a financial contribution from Halifax of $9,834 for a mobile trailer to serve as the clinician’s office, with other costs covered by Kingston and Plimpton. The clinician will not only assist police operations but also engage with local schools, focusing on individuals with mental health issues and substance use disorders.