Justice Center

Earlier this week, Martin County Commissioners approved 2021 representation on Capitol Bonding as they seek further funding for a new justice center. We’re glad the commissioners are continuing with this much-needed project. While some may question further spending after voting for a new addition to the high school and a new public works facility, the current justice center is woefully out of date.

Former commissioners were good about restraining their spending and keeping taxes low but the justice center can has been kicked down the road far enough, and now it’s time to deal with the issue.

National Merit finalist

Congratulations to Fairmont High School Senior Ethan Grunewald for having been named a National Merit Scholarship finalist. Congratulations are also in order for FHS, for having a number of kids receive the honor since 2006.

The National Merit Scholarship program has been around since 1995, with the goal of identifying and honoring academically talented U.S. high school students. Our schools are obviously providing a quality education, and we don’t see that changing anytime soon.

Kids back in school

On Wednesday, Gov. Tim Walz said that middle and high school students can return for hybrid or in-person learning starting next Monday if the schools are ready and follow required safety protocols such as masking and social distancing.

It’s about time. The Governor has taken a lot of precautions that were both necessary and good, but we’re past that point now. Kids have got to be in school. It’s good that we’re getting back to a semblance of normalcy, and we should continue to follow safe practices and guidelines. But what Walz gives, he can take away. Let’s hope that future steps move us further forward and not back.