There have been some significant drug arrests in Rice County recently. As reported, just last week there was a major heroin bust. After months of investigation by Cannon River Drug Task Force agents, they identified 33 year old Antonio Levell Washington as the main source of heroin into Rice County. Sheriff Dunn said yesterday they’re working with local, state and federal agencies. He added, “so we might see Federal charges out of that. There’s significant amounts of money, cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine taken off the street”. Dunn said the Task Force works because the
community is saying they won’t tolerate it and are informing law enforcement. Now it’s in the hands of the County attorney or Attorney General if it goes to Federal court. Washington Complaint
Chief Nelson says incident highlights importance of Steve’s Law
A Northfield police officer used Narcan a few weeks ago to save someone from overdosing. The drug counteracts effects of opioids without side effects. Police Chief Monte Nelson said this incident highlights why Steve’s Law is so important. The young woman who was overdosing had a friend who called police. She gets a 2nd chance and her friend faces no charges but Nelson says, “the most important thing is to call immediately”. And stay on scene. It’s very important to get further details. Nelson said, “staying on scene and being helpful is part of the law and part of the requirement for the amnesty and this is really a good example of why the law was written the way it was to give that amnesty and how important it is that people stay on scene and help us”. Those details inform first responders on a course of action. The woman recovered fully. Don’t run, call 911.
City sets $ amount for Fire facility bonds – will consider refi of Police facility
The City of Northfield will issue general obligation bonds to pay for the renovation and expansion of the Fire Hall at Hwy 3 and 5th st. Administrator Ben Martig said they set the maximum amount that they can issue at $4.25 million for the project although the budget is $3.9 but they want “wiggle room”. Once set, the dollar amount cannot be raised. At the same time, in conjunction with the City’s debt, Martig said they’re looking to refinance the Police Station. Martig says they’re looking at saving about 3{b5761be34e80a16b6d0e4dabc1869c131a263f96a745c82bebdd3b8a4330bfa9}. Right now the City pays about $400,000 per year in debt service on the facility. The hearing will take place at the first meeting in January. The two other partners in the NAFRS Joint Powers, Rural and Dundas, will be voting on payments to Northfield for their share of the cost of the fire facility.
Nordine named “50 for the next 50”
Congratulations to Kyle Nordine, President and CEO of Northfield Retirement Community, was just recently named to LeadingAge Minnesota’s “50 for the next 50”, recognizing innovative and influential leaders who are charting a new course to empower our aging community. Nordine has served the NRC since 2002 and has helped to shape the future of senior care in rural communities. The full story is on at northfieldretirement.org.
Winter Walk a delight
Bridge Square was a bustle of busyness and businesses were benefitting. Last night’s Winter Walk was well attended, despite the colder temps, and included all the regulars such as Rudolph, Santa and Mrs. Claus and the horsedrawn carriage. There was a large crowd for the lighting of the community Christmas tree and the 6th grader choir led the crowd in song. The Magic of Trains was, as always, a hit at the Library and the warm beverages offered along the downtown stroll were welcomed.
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