Council debates Fargaze Meadows
Northfield Council held a public hearing regarding the reconveyance of 4.6 acres of land in Fargaze Meadows, a portion of the 41 acres of forfeited land the City acquired 3 years ago for public purpose. Councilor DeLong had sent a number of questions to staff before the meeting, “one of my questions is Show me where it says the City does not want this 4.6 acres and directs staff to take the appropriate measures to do this”. He’s referring to the 39 page resolution they were poised to vote on last night. There’s questions about swapping land as well. Councilor Zweifel said she believes council gave clear direction to staff regarding
the 4.6 acres and that land could be developed for housing, which she says, it’s currently zoned for. During open comment, Planning Commission Chair Richard Schulte said this item looks to be a land use matter. He questioned, “why isn’t this before the Planning Commission? Why do you have this issue in front of you without a recommendation from the Planning Commission?” He added that these are matters that normally come to the Planning Commission. Public works Director Dave Bennett said that it was before the Commission but no decision was made as they asked for more information but never received it. Council moved forward with a Master Plan. Mayor Graham said this morning, “according to staff they satisfied all statutory requirements and the Planning Commission did hold a public hearing”. So legally they’re covered. Councilors did choose to send it back to the Planning Commission. Mayor Graham’s interview is posted on kymn.net. Councilors DeLong and Zweifel were on air this morning on the Wayne Eddy Affair. That will be posted by tomorrow.
Martig talks Liquor Store
KYMN’s Jeff Johnson talked with new City Administrator Ben Martig this morning. He discussed his experience in Marshall as their Administrator which included several capital projects including a liquor store. While he’ll bring his experience, he added that Northfield’s market is different, “you have a lot more competition just down the road”. He added that every situation is unique. Martig said, as you look at the current store, there’s a need for some improvement, certainly expanded space and better accessibility. Martig had been tracking the discussions in Northfield before he started as Administrator. Two sites have been selected, the Q-block and Econofoods. He said, “but I would also keep in mind that we do want to continue to make progress but we won’t rule out any other options out”. He expects to bring more information back to council within 30 to 45 days. Martig’s full interview is posted on kymn.net.
Four seats will open up on School Board
It’s an election year for the Northfield School Board. Filing begins August 2nd through 5pm August 16th. For more information go to the schools website. Four members terms are up, Noel Stratmoen, Rob Hardy, Ellen Iverson and Fritz Bogott.
Richardson’s final interview on KYMN as Superintendent
This Board meeting was Superintendent Dr. Chris Richardson’s last as Superintendent of Nfld. Schools. Incoming Superintendent, Dr. Matt Hillman shared that before the meeting began each of the Board members shared a very positive memory of Richardson’s work here. He was presented with a document from Governor Mark Dayton also thanking him for his service. Richardson received a commemorative Raider brick. Hillman wrapped it up saying, “Chris, thanks so much for your service to the students of Northfield”. He commented on Richardson’s steadfast focus on a quality education for all children. Jeff Johnson thanked Richardson for his dedication to coming into KYMN studios after every Board meeting to keep our listeners informed. Richardson’s retirement begins July 1st.
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