Minutiae of Gov’t agency counter intuitive to action of firefighters – still they push forward
The NAFRS joint powers Board met yesterday. While they continue to work through the growing pains of becoming a government agency answerable to the public, efforts are being made to navigate the intricacies of the annual operating budget and capital improvement plans. They approved 3 motions after whittling down the language. They accepted the Fire Station study without the additional language of reviewing the timeline and budget. They approved the 2016 operating budget at $525,000. Again, removing language about when the budget needs to be put in front of the JPA partners, Northfield, Dundas and Rural. They are well on their way to reaching their goal of a 33% fund reserve. There was some discussion as to the whole process of committees bringing forward information to the full Board for approval and concern by both City Administrators about voting on material not present in the packet. The Board unanimously approved joining the Houston Galveston Purchasing Cooperative. The City of Northfield used this coop to purchase the $750,000 ladder truck they bought in 2013. There is no fee to join but they’re obligated to use their service. The plan is to purchase their main fire truck, the one that responds to all calls, in 2016. Chair Glen Castore said the truck will cost about $550,000. Discussion over the financing the fire facility was moved to their August meeting. The minutiae and slow workings of a government agency, such as a JPA, is vastly different than the immediate and commanding action of a firefighter!
NDDC presents mid-year report
NDDC Director Scot Covey gave a mid-year update to Council. He spoke with over 100 downtown businesses and had 80 in depth conversations with some. Covey said there were few consistent issues and concerns across business owners. However, parking was a concern, primarily involving enforcement of existing laws, and lack of clear signage. He began building a database that includes businesses, offices and residential. While City staff and the Chamber have access to it the public does not. Covey touched on business recruitment saying there’s little space left in downtown. Adding too full is also a problem as some businesses wish to expand. The report he gave to Council is posted on the city’s website under the City Council meeting packet.
Drug Court enters 2nd year with high hopes
Rice County drug court is heading into year 2. Drug Court Coordinator Carolyn Mnichowicz collects information on the participants, makes sure they have the resources they need for their sobriety and coordinate with all the stakeholders. The priority of drug court is treatment. Mnichowicz comments that they spend $40,000 a year just for incarceration. The idea is to reduce recidivism and cost. She said if you add up everything, there is “immense savings” using drug court. Rice County is focusing on high risk/high needs people. The program is very individual and not just anybody can qualify for drug court. The goal is to retrain their brain for recovery and become a productive individual. Currently they have 9 participants with the goal of 25. The program is about 18 months long. Summing up Mnichowicz said it’s amazing to see someone at rock bottom lifted up to their potential. She encourages those facing the issue within the court system to get in touch with their attorney or probation agent.
Drunk Buster Karts and Safe Ride Home from the Rice County Fair
The Safe Roads Coalition, is co-sponsoring with the Sheriff, Project Prevention (CHC), MADD, and Minnesotans for Safe Driving to bring the Drunk Buster Karts to the fair on Friday evening, 7-9 pm. Test your driving skills and ride the kart through the course, first while texting and then while wearing the fatal vision goggles. Free root beer for those participating. If you stayed too long at the fair and had too much to drink, call First Choice Shuttle at 507-333-0090 for a safe ride home.
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The post Today’s news update – Minutiae of Gov’t agency counter intuitive to action of firefighters – still they push forward; NDDC presents mid-year report; Drug Court enters 2nd year with high hopes; Drunk Buster Karts and Safe Ride Home from the Rice County Fair appeared first on KYMN Radio - Northfield, MN.