Today’s news update | First National Bank of Northfield enters agreement with OCC

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For the top news briefs,

• First National Bank of Northfield has entered into a formal agreement with the office of Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) to enhance the quality of its loan administration. The OCC regulates nationally chartered banks like First National. A similar action was taken with Community Resource Bank of Northfield in January. Bank CEO, David Shumway, says the action will have a minimal effect on customers. Shumway says he expects all of the loan issues to be resolved within the next few months.
• Northfield will not receive funds from a Federal Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) grant. In September, Northfield applied for the grant to help finance the installation of pedestrian crossings on Highways 3 and 19 and a transit hub off of Laurel Court. The U.S Department of Transportation announced on Wednesday it is providing $1.5 billion dollars worth of grants, ranging from $4 million to over $100 million, for more than 50 high-priority transportation projects across the country. UPDATE: Click here to view the US DOT’s report.
• Governor Pawlenty’s 2010 budget proposal could mean cuts up to $740,000 in Northfield for 2010. Northfield has already seen cuts to local government aid up to $697,000. City administrator Joel Walinski has met with city staff to plan for the possible government aid reduction. He’s asked city department heads to look at ways of cutting their 2010 budgets by 8 to 10%. He says city staff is also considering how this would affect city services. The governor’s budget is designed to make up a $1.2 billion shortfall.
• 2^nd District Congressman John Kline hosts a town hall meeting tonight in Faribault. The meeting will give constituents an opportunity to express their views on a variety of issues. The town hall is scheduled to run from 6:30 to 8:00 in the Michael Hanson Auditorium at Faribault High School. Kline is in his 4^th term and is the senior Republican on the House Education and Labor Committee. He also serves on the House Armed Services Committee.
• You’ll be able to head south for the winter on Saturday—without leaving Northfield. Carnivale is coming to Northfield. To Brasil and Back is a celebration of Brazilian music, dancing, culture and food. KYMN’s Will Healy is the master of ceremonies. in addition to all the fun you can have, by paying the $20 admission fee, you’ll be helping out a worthy cause—proceeds go to the Rotary Youth Exchange program. The festivities start at 5:30 Saturday night at Northfield Middle School. You can buy tickets at Present Perfect or at the door.
• The Northfield Fireman’s Benefit Dance is tomorrow night. The money raised will help buy new tools and other essential gear. The Killer Hayseeds will provide the music. The benefit gets underway at 7:00 at the Grand. Tickets are $10.