Denise Martin
Recent Stories
NEWS
When purpose, passion are behind the uniform
Over the course of decades with Lakes Area Police Department Detective Mike Merchlewitz received numerous personal letters of thanks, career awards and other recognition which he truly valued, he explains. His motivation to wear the uniform was founded on helping others and then, as a detective, in “bringing a measure of closure in challenging circumstances.”
NEWS
Taylors Falls gets sewer project aid
The inspection of the Taylors Falls standpipe reservoir system for the municipal water supply came back with a few recommendations for maintenance needs— but overall the long overdue once-over was positive. Council member Tim Grote, public works liaison, reported to city council last week no follow-up inspection is recommended for another five years, adding this outcome “makes me very happy.”
NEWS
County ARMER radio users, subscribers to be signing up soon
If you think the physical first responder and emergency radio system is complex, how about the process of setting a fee the county needs to charge to implement the looming equipment upgrade and replacement plan. Support for existing equipment phased out in 2019, and the slow fade when parts are still somewhat available is at its end.
NEWS
Road construction season full speed ahead
The proposed newly aligned intersection for Pleasant Valley Road at Highway 95 in Franconia Township is moving forward with a big financial boost from the LRIP fund. Chisago County Engineer Joe Triplett shared a notice with the county commissioners that the county had won the Local Road Improvement Program funds of $500,000, appropriated through the state legislature.
NEWS
Budget workshop scrutiny of county Teamsters contract terms
The county commissioners get together in a monthly work session every second Wednesday to devote an entire informal discussion to budgeting and capital needs. No action is taken, but if there’s sufficient information and consensus the item goes to a regular County Board business agenda. (Regular business meetings are the first and third Wednesdays at night.)
SCHOOLS
North Branch inks three year contract with Superintendent
The North Branch Area Schools Superintendent contract was adopted for another three years, by the school board, last week. The vote was 4-0 with members Naegele and Trampe absent.
NEWS
Attempted murder alleged in Wyoming assault
The Chisago County Attorney’s office is pursuing first degree attempted murder charges against a 73 year old Wyoming male, arrested by Wyoming Police on May 11.
NEWS
North Branch okays Flock license plate readers on split vote
The North Branch City Council split 3-2 on approving the use of automated license plate readers and contracting with equipment and service provider Flock for $3,000 per camera for seven devices at various well-travelled routes. Exact sites for the readers are still being worked out, council was advised.
NEWS
Building materials company to locate in North Branch
Louisiana Pacific’s new facility in North Branch will be welcomed and celebrated with a groundbreaking hosted by the company, June 23 on the new plant site site in the Interstate Business Park.
NEWS