The Heritage Preservation Committee looked for support from the Planning Commission to expand Northfield’s downtown historic district. In 2016, a grant allowed them to bring in a consultant who recommends 4 properties be included. City Planner Scott Tempel said three of the properties are on the south end of Division Street. They are 515, 517 and 519. The new Tattoo shop, Willie’s Shoe and the Armory. The other property is Mark Quinnell’s Insurance on Water St. The HPC also amended the boundary of the district to more closely follow the parcel lines. While there’s
been reluctance in the past for some business owners to take the historic designation believing the “rules” to any renovations is cost prohibitive; but Tempel said, after talking with owners, there’s been none opposed although they’re lukewarm on the idea. Tempel explained some advantages to being a part of the district include insulation from the fluctuations of value and increased property value. The consultant felt the Public Library, however, had undergone enough changes through their renovations to remove it from the Historical listings, however City staff disagreed, citing the Division Street side maintained it’s historic facade and the HPC approved the building changes. Commission members talked through several items for clarification and then recommended approval with an amendment to include the dam wall to Bridge Square Park. It passed unanimously and will now move onto the Council. For more information click HERE. 2 – New Historic District Map 1 – Northfield Commercial Historic District Survey (1)
No more cupcakes at school
School Districts are required to update their Wellness Policy by June 30th to align with Federal and State policy. Superintendent Dr. Matt Hillman said there will be changes including no more candy treats as rewards. Another change, no more homemade or store bought cupcakes (or sugary treats) during school day celebrations in Elementary School. Hillmann said it’s a break in tradition but a healthier one. He says they’ve seen it coming for a while now with the different dietary needs and people being more intentional about what their children eat. Hillmann said they’re not taking the fun away, however, they are adhering to the new guidelines. These rules DON’T apply after school hours.
Langer named 2017 Heywood Award winner
The Defeat of Jesse James Days Committee announced the 2017 Joseph Lee Heywood Distinguished Service Award Recipient last night, Greg Langer. Greg’s entire professional career was at Northfield Equipment on Highway 3. Starting at age 19, he filled several roles till becoming co-owner in 1981 until selling in 2009. Greg joined Sertoma, the Knights of Columbus, Northfield Area Chamber of Commerce and has been a very active member of the Defeat of Jesse James Days committee. Langer’s been a Greenvale Township supervisor and a member of various ag-related organizations. He’s the 35th recipient of this very prestigious award and will be honored on September 6th as part of the Defeat of Jesse James Days celebration. DJJDHeywoodAwardCandidate-GregLanger DJJDPressRelease2017HeywoodRecipient
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