Hide your cats, coyotes are on the loose in town. Northfield Police Chief Monte Nelson said in the last week, the coyotes are so bold as to come up on people’s decks. He talked with a wildlife expert who said it’s extremely likely the reason these animals are so prevalent in town, and especially losing their fear of people, is because they’re associating food with people and with their homes. He said, “if someone’s purposely feeding a coyote or a fox or
some other small carnivore, thinking they’re helping them live through the winter, one it’s illegal, two it creates this problem where they lose their fear of people”. He warns people not to leave cat food outdoors, the coyotes are attracted to their food and also cats as a food source. Experts add that many people feed birds in their yard which also attracts rabbits and squirrels. Wildlife have figured this out in some areas too and are eyeing that bunny as breakfast. It’s not just coyotes but for a couple of months now, foxes are appearing all over town. Nelson reminds people, you cannot shoot a firearm within city limits. If you’re having a problem with wildlife coming near your home, call their non emergency phone number. 507-645-4475
Sidewalks main topic of street reclamation
The City of Northfield will be reclaiming several streets this summer. At a public hearing this week, the main focus was on sidewalks proposed on both sides of Maple, Nevada and 9th Streets. Administrator Ben Martig said they have some site issues including mature trees, grading changes, steeper slopes and more. They’re looking to narrow the streets to accommodate the trees. The narrowing will also slow traffic. They put forth 2 options, number 1 would remove 22 trees, option 2, which narrows the road would remove 12. Marvin Lane will also undergo reclamation. A sidewalk was not proposed, however City Engineer Dave Bennett said there’s a gap in the sidewalks and they might want to consider adding them to Marvin or Sumner. Several community members spoke, most in favor of the sidewalks, however one woman,speaking of the assessments said she wants no more costs as she can “barely stay alive” now. One man was adamantly opposed while, Doug, who lives on Sibley View Lane, was concerned about the City making money off the people who are assessed. Safety was top priority for the other 5 people who spoke. A resident on Nevada court said she has 2 small children, 5 and 7, one of whom she walks to school. She said it’s very scary and added that she understands the hardship of some but safety should come first. Bennett mentioned that there are programs through the assessment process for hardship and also for qualified people through the HRA. The next step is to order Improvements at Council’s Feb. 21st meeting. A neighborhood meeting will be held April 5th.
Carleton Convocation welcomes mental health advocate
Bestselling author and mental health advocate Kevin Hines will present the Carleton convocation tomorrow morning from 10:50 to 11:50 a.m. in the Skinner Memorial Chapel. Titled “Cracked Not Broken,” his presentation will share his remarkable story chronicling his own suicide attempt and subsequent road to recovery. In September 2000 a 19 year old, Hines, who suffers from a bipolar disorder, attempted suicide by jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge. He is one of only 26 people, less than one percent, to survive the fall, and is the only current survivor actively advocating for mental health awareness around the world. Hines is the recipient of several national awards and honors in recognition of his efforts. Carleton convocations are free and open to the public.
