FEDA

The Fairmont Economic Development Authority released its first-quarter report for the year 2021, and the report is good. Compared to last year there has been an increase in the three categories of building permits, planning, and zoning permits, and land disturbance permits.

Under the building permits in the residential category, in each subcategory, the numbers have doubled.

We agree with Economic Development Coordinator Linsey Preuss, who said the numbers are

exciting. We couldn’t agree more.

Parks

Fairmonts parks are open for the summer season. It will be good to see people enjoying their time outdoors, especially with Governor Walz’s recent decision to begin lifting restrictions. Fairmont has a wide variety of parks and recreational spaces, but we think Streets and Parks Superintendent Nick Lardy is right to issue a word of caution.

Our parks must be respected as public property, meaning that they exist for everyone to enjoy. They need to be kept clean.

COVID restrictions

Minnesota will lift nearly all its COVID-19 restrictions just before Memorial Day weekend and drop its statewide mask requirement no later than July 1, according to Governor Walz. He also said the mask mandate could end even sooner if 70 percent of residents age 16 and older get their first dose of vaccine.

Minnesota has led the way in vaccines and now is the right time to restore the rights and freedoms we should all enjoy.

Mental Health

May is mental health awareness month, and Human Services of Faribault and Martin Counties is engaging in efforts to help raise awareness about mental health and resources in rural communities. Behavioral Health Program Manager for Human Services Anna Garbers notes CDC reports that those struggling with mental health issues has surged because of the pandemic, and it’s good to see that there are resources available to help.