The push to address a growing childcare shortage in Windom took a major step forward this week, as the Windom City Council approved key funding commitments for the new “Soaring Eagles Child Care Center.” At Tuesday’s meeting, council members acted on recommendations from the Economic Development Authority, backing both short-term construction financing and long-term operational support for the project spearheaded by the Windom Way Forward (WWF) Committee. The council approved a $75,000 temporary loan to help bridge a funding gap and keep renovation work on schedule at the former Highland School building. The facility, now known as the Highland Early Childhood Center, is being transformed into a childcare hub that will offer at least 50 new childcare slots when it opens, with a target date of September 1st. In addition, the council committed to $28,000 per year for five years to help sustain operations at the center. Leaders say that support is critical, as childcare tuition alone won’t fully cover the cost of staffing and day-to-day expenses due to state-mandated caregiver-to-child ratios. The Soaring Eagles project has already secured about $125,000 in grants and donations toward its nearly $200,000 renovation goal, with additional funding still pending. Community partners, including businesses and local organizations, have been actively contributing, recognizing childcare as a key factor in workforce retention and future growth. The Windom Way Forward Committee, made up of community leaders, including city officials, identified childcare as its top priority. The group has also been working with First Children’s Finance to develop a sustainable model not just for the center, but for broader childcare expansion in the area. However, while the city has stepped up, similar support has not yet been secured at the county level. Earlier this week, the Cottonwood County Board of Commissioners heard a request to contribute to childcare efforts across the county, including Windom, Mountain Lake, and Westbrook-Walnut Grove. The proposal called for a combined $82,000 annual investment over five years. Commissioners expressed concerns about long-term financial sustainability and equity among school districts, ultimately choosing to table the request without action. Despite that setback, momentum in Windom continues to build. With city backing now in place, organizers say the Soaring Eagles Child Care Center is on track to become a cornerstone project, helping local families, supporting employers, and strengthening the community’s future workforce.
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The Mountain Lake Christian School 2026 Auction is coming Friday, April 10th!!!! This fundraising auction has been going for over 20 years and this year expected to be better then ever. Baskets, Certificates, Gift Cards and a live auction that will have you wanting to up the bids! Come over to Mountain Lake for a night of fundraising, fun and dinner. Mark April 10th on your calendar for dinner and entertainment. The meal deal promises to include delicious homemade bars and a drink. All funds raised are used for curriculum, classroom supplies, special events, building needs and tuition assistance. Come to Mountain Lake on Friday April 10th at the Mountain Lake Christian School which is located at 710 11th Street N in Mountain Lake. Doors open at 5pm for browsing and food. Live and Silent Auctions begin at 6:30pm. Don’t miss out on a fun evening of community and great deals.
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Happy First Day of Spring! Or as I have had to say my WHOLE LIFE… Happy Birthday to my big brother Mike on this wonderful day that brings joy to ones soul… I don’t know about you, but I am over the moon we are on the downhill slide to SPRING! All the massive snow is melting and yes I know, we live in this crazy state of Minnesota so I should not be too optimistic BUT I can’t help but smile at the word SPRING!!! We can all officially start our New Years Resolutions now! I get it, there is officially more to the first day of Spring… For those of you that don’t know… Today, the sun crosses the celestial equator, giving us nearly equal parts day and night. From here on out, the days in the Northern Hemisphere will keep stretching until the summer solstice. It’s the ultimate “reset” button for the planet. And for me!!! So Happy Birthday Mike and HAPPY RESET DAY to the rest of you!