Local Headline News

Wednesday- April 23, 2025

The Windom Police Department reported in the week of April 13th to the 19th there were 87 calls. Officers had 2 Dogs at Large, 3 Motorist Assists, 2 Noise Complaints, 3 Suspicious Activity calls, checked on 3 Suspicious vehicles and conducted 28 Traffic Stops. For a full listing of the Windom Police Departments Weekly Citizens Report by clicking link below.

Windom Police Dept Weekly Citizens Report 4-13th to 4-19th

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Windom Police Department reported on the 16th at approximately 2:40pm an officer received a message from a Windom female regarding a message that her mother, had posted on Facebook. The Reporting Party has an active harassment restraining order against the party who made the post. This case has been forwarded to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for review for possible Gross Misdemeanor Violation of a Harassment Order on an 83-year-old Dudley MA (Massachusetts) female, because of a previous violation conviction.  On the 18th, at 1:37 pm an officer spoke with two Windom residents at the Law Enforcement Center for a report of a package that was taken from their front door of their apartment in the 100 block of 6th Avenue. According to the reporting party, the package had been delivered while they were at a doctor’s appointment at about 10am when they got home at approximately 11am, the package was gone. The merchandise missing is approximately $50 in value. This matter is under investigation.

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As of April 21st, Cottonwood County and surrounding areas in southwest Minnesota are under burn bans due to heightened fire risks. These restrictions are vital for public safety and environmental protection.​ Burn bans are implemented when conditions—such as dry vegetation, low humidity, and strong winds—create an elevated risk of wildfires. In southwest Minnesota, these factors can cause fires to spread rapidly, endangering lives, property, and natural resources. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) enforces these bans to prevent accidental wildfires and to protect both residents and firefighters.​The DNR has issued Red Flag Warnings for several counties, including Cottonwood, Jackson, Murray, Nobles, Pipestone and Rock due to extreme fire risks. During these warnings, open burning permits are not activated, and campfires are discouraged. Residents are urged to ensure any previous fires are completely extinguished and to avoid burning during these high-risk periods. ​To reduce fire risks, the DNR recommends alternatives to open burning, such as composting, chipping, or transporting yard waste to designated collection sites.

Residents should stay updated on current fire conditions and burn restrictions by visiting the Minnesota DNR’s fire danger and burning restrictions page. This resource provides real-time information on fire risks and guidelines for safe outdoor activities. ​By adhering to burn bans and understanding the reasons behind them, residents can play a crucial role in preventing wildfires and ensuring the safety of their communities.​

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The City of Mountain Lake and the Economic Development Authority (EDA) are excited to announce a collaborative effort with Federated Rural Electric to bring high-speed fiber internet to Mountain Lake and greater Cottonwood County. This initiative aims to significantly improve internet connectivity for residents, businesses, and local institutions—boosting access to essential digital services, enhancing business operations, and promoting community growth. As part of this important project, they are reaching out to the local business community to ask for your support. One way you can help is by providing a letter of support to Federated Broadband. These letters play a crucial role in demonstrating community backing and strengthening grant or funding applications that will help make this project a reality. If your business relies on reliable internet—or would benefit from faster speeds and better service—we encourage you to share your story and voice your support. Together, we can ensure Mountain Lake and Cottonwood County are ready for a connected future. For more information or to submit a letter of support, you can contact Tabitha Garloff at (507)427-2999, Ext. 3 or by e-mailing tgarloff@mountainlakemn.com or letters can be mailed directly to rasmussen@federatedbroadband.coop

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