Speech students advance to state

Last week at the section 2A speech meet, the Fairmont High School Speech team advanced ten students to the state tournament which will take place on April 23. Fairmont’s speech program has had a very successful track record and we’re proud of this year’s team for continuing with tradition. Good luck and have fun at state!

Council hears from Foundation, YMCA

Earlier this week at the Fairmont City Council meeting, members of the YMCA presented information on the programming they could bring to Fairmont. It was great to hear from the management team on how they would work with existing businesses in Fairmont. We’re excited to see how it progresses.

Ambiance appeal granted

The Fairmont City Council revisted the appeal of a denied variance request at 2319 Albion Ave. this week and ultimately voted to grant it. It was evident that Planning and Zoning official, Peter Bode, had done his work. Both Planning and Zoning and the DNR said no because of the potential risk to the bluff and the road. The location is different than the variance granted for the Marina Lodge. We love to see new and expanded businesses but it’s important to go by the guidelines and follow the recommendations of people who are doing their jobs.

GHEC board talks insurance, SRO

The Granada-Huntley-East Chain School Board discussed the position of its School Resource Officer this week as his contract is coming to an end. Deputy Chris Gerhardt of the Martin County Sheriffs Office has been in the role for three years with the district paying for 66 percent and the county 33 percent. Moving forward, the district is looking at having an SRO work fewer days or hours. We think that’s a wise move considering the size of the school, but there’s no doubt the SRO is a valuable role at the school.