New Richland-Hartland-Ellendale-Geneva School Board Meeting Highlights: Bus Purchase and Insurance Reimbursement

Overview: The New Richland-Hartland-Ellendale-Geneva School Board recently convened to address issues including future transportation needs and a health insurance reimbursement for an administrative staff member. The board discussed purchasing new buses as part of a long-term replacement plan and decided to reimburse a deductible expense incurred by an employee due to an insurance change, among other topics.

New Richland City Council Approves Transition to New Ambulance Billing Consultant

Overview: The New Richland City Council, in their first meeting of 2025, made several decisions, including the approval of a new billing consultant for the ambulance department, consolidating the city’s membership in a regional safety group, and addressing a new labor contract for the city’s police department. Despite the absence of Mayor Janda Ferguson and Council Member Matt Economy due to an emergency, the council moved forward with a quorum.

Steele County Board Faces Challenges with Pickleball Court Location and Road Project Planning

Overview: The Steele County Board of Commissioners meeting addressed several issues, with the potential establishment of a pickleball court and road project planning taking center stage. The board grappled with site selection for the pickleball court amidst concerns about land availability and community support. Additionally, road maintenance projects were discussed, highlighting the urgency of planning and funding allocation.

Owatonna School Board Approves New Member Allowances Amid Financial Concerns

Overview: The Owatonna School Board convened for its organizational meeting, addressing various administrative matters including the approval of a new allowance structure for board members. Despite financial concerns expressed by some, the board voted in favor of the proposal, which included a 4% increase to align with recent contract negotiations.

Steele County Allocates ARPA Funds for Security Upgrades and Courthouse Improvements

Overview: In a special meeting, the Steele County Board of Commissioners focused primarily on allocating American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, targeting security upgrades, a fueling system, and courthouse improvements. The board unanimously approved a motion to direct the remaining ARPA funds towards these priorities.