ECRT (trail) gets the green light
The E. Cannon River trail was green-lighted by Northfield Council last night. The controversial trail has been on and off Council agendas a number of times but, last night the Council worked through 4 items related to it including a cooperative agreement with Dundas. Northfield will “loan” Dundas the money for their share of the 2.6 mile trail. 1.8 miles will be new paved asphalt and .8 will run along Dundas city streets. The lowest bidder for the asphalt surface was Crane Creek of Faribault for $619,579.62. Votes were 6 to 1 and 5 to 2 in favor with Councilors Ludescher and DeLong voting no on different points. Ludescher maintained that the City is acting illegally by “loaning” money to Dundas and the preemptive cutting down of trees in the wetland area before threatened bats could nest.
DeLong was not pleased with the process. Mayor Graham commented that he felt it important that Councilor questions were answered, saying, “we have a responsibility to the citizens of Northfield to ask these questions. We can’t just do any project or every project at any cost”. He reiterated his idea for a “Lessons Learned” report after the project saying, “so that we can get better for the next one”. He said by challenging and asking the questions, they get more information. The trail is expected to be complete this summer. Follow this LINK which will take you to video of the meeting and all the meeting materials.
A first filled with recognitions, Council work session and meeting
The new Northfield City Administrator started on Monday. Ben Martig was hired in February but wasn’t able to start until this week. He was the City Administrator in Marshall, MN. Mayor Graham commented, “he’s anxious to jump in with both feet, he’s getting himself up to speed on the issues and last night was his first meeting. We gave him a busy day.. with several things before the Council”. Council started their Tuesday evening by recognizing Employees, volunteers and resigned or retired board and commission members with a short program and reception in Council Chambers. Graham added that City Clerk Deb Little celebrated 30 years with the City. The list: 1 – 2016 Employee and Volunteer Recognition Program
Fossum comments on drug sentencing reform
Minnesota’s Sentencing Guidelines Commission last December proposed drug sentencing reform as Minnesota’s prisons become overpopulated with nearly double the number of drug offenders. Rice County Attorney John Fossum said the concern is whether people are being incarcerated for their addiction or for public safety. He and the County Attorneys Association opposed those changes but last Friday, they endorsed a new proposal before legislature. He said, “I was not a big fan of the sentencing guidelines proposal so I was looking for something that I think better fit, better protected public safety and I think this proposal does that”. The changes include increased amounts for first degree possession of cocaine and methamphetamine from 25 to 50 grams. Heroin remains at the lower threshold. First Degree sale moves from 10 grams to 17 grams. Fossum said the point is to focus on higher level dealers. Marijuana thresholds also move up significantly. If this passes it will go into effect August 1st.
Northfield Prays
Northfield’s 20th Prayer breakfast is tomorrow morning at the Northfield Ballroom beginning at 6:20. The program begins at 7 and it’s wrapped up by 8:30. Tickets are $10. On Saturday there will be a Solemn Assembly at City Light Church from 8am to noon. For more details go to northfieldprays.com.
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