Denise Martin
Recent Stories
NEWS
North Branch 2024 audit triggers carryover discussion
The 2024 audit of North Branch city finances raised a couple issues with non-compliance but for the most part, North Branch has a healthy fiscal situation. The city was advised the receipts needed to support credit card bills were missing in some cases and the cash reconciliation process needs improvements.
NEWS
Watershed District managers confront next year budget issues
A number of local agencies and government units are embarking on their 2026 budget planning a little extra early. The fiscal ocean is shaping up to be more difficult to navigate than usual— coupled with unknown state aid.
SCHOOLS
Wildcat Academy to open in September
Chisago Lakes School District opened up enrollment a few weeks ago for a new distance education opportunity, dubbed Wildcat Academy, and the roll was to be close to being finalized by the end of May. The district reports 20 students have signed up for the first session this fall. Director of Teaching and Learning Sarah Schmidt said any families who may still be considering remote classes for students in grades 9 to 12 can still contact her. The e-mail is [email protected] or call 651-213-2005.
NEWS
County opioid grants entering second round
It’s time for the second round of grant funding to be dispersed by the Opioid Action Council through final recommendations that will be approved by the Chisago County Board. There‘s $200,000 available for this total round.
NEWS
Sentence handed down in dual-death crash
The 64-year-old driver of a vehicle that crossed the centerline on Pioneer Trail, rural Wyoming in 2024 resulting in two fatalities—was sentenced last week to perform community work service.
NEWS
North Branch trail out for bids; more info needed on zone issue
The North Branch City Council did some lengthy review last week of a development that has single family homes included into a denser multiple residential zone (R3) and whether or not to revise city code to allow for this— or clarify the city’s guiding document be revised to not allow for this.
NEWS
Lindstrom preps for midsummer festivities
Lindstrom City Council met May 21 for a regular meeting. Council member David Waldoch was absent.
NEWS
Ice arena to partner with district, use grant
Someday soon there could be a space created inside of the unfinished hockey arena in Stacy, where an active caring environment will be open for youngsters, while their parents and guardians are earning a living. A $500,000 grant funneled through the Minnesota Department of Education has been earmarked and is “moving along’ according to a spokesperson at MDE. She said policy is that the department is unable to provide details until the grant is in the awardee’s hands — in this case the North Branch Area Hockey Association.
NEWS
Active year for SBDC in county
Calling it “one of the best things we do for business” Chisago County Small Business Development Center presenter Nancy Hoffman gave the County Board a yearly summary last week. She explained who the center serves and what they are looking for.
NEWS