Updated information on rural Rice County burglaries
Rice County Sheriff Troy Dunn called this morning with more information on the reported daylight burglaries in rural Rice County on Wednesday. He said in 2 instances, the victims pulled up to their home to see a white vehicle, the people said they were lost and looking for (Veseli or a name of someone). The victims directed them out, they walked into their home and then discovered they’d been burglarized. Dunn asks the public to report ANY suspicious activity, get a license number even if it’s just a partial plate number, that helps them narrow their search. Neither homeowner got a license plate number of the vehicle. His feeling is that they may change vehicles, he also believes they’ll keep going until they’re caught. “That’s usually how it goes”. Just as in the recent Northfield burglaries, they are looking for cash, jewelry and small electronics. Dunn stressed how important the public’s role is in helping them apprehend these criminals. Report to law enforcement immediately anything suspicious. For the Sheriff’s department call 507-334-4391 or call 911 if appropriate.
Two telecom companies tangle over City contract
Approval of the telecommunications contract for the City was postponed when the competing companies started a bidding war during the Northfield council meeting 2 weeks ago. Jaguar Communications of Owatonna had been recommended by City staff but Arvig, who is in the process of buying St. Olaf Telephone, who has the current contract, was pressing to retain it. Each company can offer the same product. City Administrator Madigan told both companies on Tuesday “you have until noon today to give us your last and best proposal” and explain why you should have the contract. With the planned opening of the new Police Facility just around the corner, the City wants to finalize a contract as soon as possible.
Demographer says Northfield can expect fewer students in the future
Former State demographer, Hazel Rhinehart, presented her findings on the Northfield School district’s enrollment and facilities study. She said there’s been no growth in the last decade. The district has between 3850 and 3900 students. Rhinehart went further saying she estimates a decline in the future of about 150 students due to the recession of 2008. The reason, Superintendent Richardson says, is there was a baby bust during that time. Enrollment will drop in the middle school in the following 5 years. Another reason enrollment isn’t changing is the age of Northfield residents. Nearly 50% of our homes have 1 person age 55 or older. Northfield is also a destination for retirees. Rhinehart projected just 88 new homes would be built in Northfield in the next couple of years, which would not add many students. Bottom line is that enrollment will drop but not significantly, however, a school district’s lifeblood in terms of funding is the per pupil basic formula. Less kids generate less money. Richardson said they reduce staff if necessary. It will be a balancing act that they’ll keep a close eye on.
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The post Today’s news update – Updated information on rural Rice County burglaries; Two telecom companies tangle over City contract – Council to vote next week; Demographer says Northfield can expect fewer students in the future appeared first on KYMN Radio - Northfield, MN.