Breaking News

Letters to the Editor

Readers’ Views

We can’t afford to wait To the Editor: Last November, Martin County West School District voters went to the polls regarding a referendum with two questions: the first to approve $63 million for a new pre-K through 12 facility in Sherburn, and the second, contingent on the first passing, to approve a $9 million gym space (to replace what was lost with the closure of the Welcome building) and an auditorium. The proposed plan was developed after significant research, facilities assessments, and financial analysis regarding the future of the district. It was the right plan for the ...

Readers’ Views

New school will not resolve operations budget deficit To the Editor: Citizens of Martin County West (MCW) school district, are you aware the MCW school board is planning to have another building bond referendum election on May 14, 2024? Are you aware the school board will be asking for a larger amount for a smaller sized school than in November 2023? Are you aware this will result in even higher property taxes than what was proposed last year? The school board will need to vote to proceed with the May election before March 1st and will most likely vote at the next school board ...

Readers’ Views

Bees in Fairmont To the Editor: I recently inquired of the City of Fairmont if I could have bees at my residence in Fairmont to benefit plants in my yard and the surrounding area. I was advised that bees were not allowed by city ordinance. On Feb. 12, I appeared at the regular City Council meeting to formally request a change of ordinance to allow bees within the City of Fairmont. The council heard my request and I left a copy of the Model Beekeeping Ordinance prepared by the Minnesota Hobby Beekeepers Association. I also understand that Fairmont is considering a program to boost ...

Readers’ Views

Reasons to vote no on referendum To the Editor: I’m voting no on the MCW school referendum for three main reasons: 1. We simply cannot afford it. $63 to $72 million plus $40 million interest over 20 years is not fiscally responsible. MCW enrollment is 630 and declining. 2. It is devastating to the small towns who lose their schools. Welcome has already lost their school. If this proposal passes Trimont will lose their school. Sherburn will be the only community having a school. 3. If we vote yes, we are locked in. That’s it- no matter what happens we are locked in for 20 ...

Readers’ Views

Your voice matters To the editor: MCW CARE seeks an alternative bond referendum aimed at enhancing our existing facilities. These structurally sound facilities date back to the 1950s and 1960s, and the district still carries a substantial debt of $7.7 million from previous facility upgrades in 2015 (i.e., new boilers), which will not be fully paid off until 2035. The question that arises is whether it’s financially prudent to tear down something you’re still paying for. MCW CARE is unwavering in its commitment to ensuring that voters are well-informed about the 2023 bond ...

Raeders Views’

Vote No to the Martin County West (MCW) School Referendum by Nov. 7th To the Editor In 1988 the towns of Trimont, Sherburn, Welcome and Dunnell consolidated together to form Martin County West. For 25 years we have been showing others how to join together for success. One of our primary concerns with the current MCW Referendum is our own town of Trimont. We have been members of the Trimont community our entire lives. We are so incredibly proud of our community. Our homes and streets are well kept, our 4-H clubs keep our corners beautiful, we built our own Town Center with community ...