The Cottonwood County Sheriff’s Office reported 49 calls in the week of October 4th to October 10th. Among the calls were one fatal motor vehicle accident, one gunshot wound report, one assault, one report of terroristic threats, and one suicide threat. Deputies also responded to three theft reports, three animal calls, two disturbances, two driving complaints, two noise complaints, two juvenile offender incidents. and a disorderly conduct complaint. The Sheriff’s Office also conducted four traffic stops, handled nine civil processes, and assisted with prisoner transport, court security, and other law enforcement duties. A full listing of all calls in the Cottonwood County Sheriff’s Office Weekly Citizens Report is available by clicking the link below.
————————————-
The Business, Arts, & Recreation Center also known as BARC is celebrating 25 years of friendships, memories, laughter, and bringing people together. What an achievement worth celebrating! For 25 years, BARC, the Business, Arts and Recreation Center in Windom, has been more than just a building. It has been a place where people gather, friendships grow, talents are shared, and memories are made. Behind those 25 years are countless volunteers, generous supporters, and community members who have given their time, talents, and hearts to help make BARC what it is today. And now, it’s time to celebrate not just a milestone, but the people who helped make it possible. BARC is inviting everyone to join in its 25th Anniversary Celebration on Sunday, October 18th, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the BARC West Gym in Windom. The celebration will feature a baked potato bar, sweet treat, and beverage for just $10. Whether you’ve been part of BARC’s journey from the beginning or have recently discovered all it has to offer, you’re invited to come together and celebrate. Because when you look back over 25 years, it’s not just about the programs, activities, or events. It’s about the people, the connections, and the difference one community can make when everyone comes together. Congratulations to BARC on 25 years of making Windom and the surrounding communities a better place! And three cheers to the memories still waiting to be made!
————————————————————
The Windom Economic Development Authority’s scheduled meeting yesterday, was canceled due to a lack of quorum, meaning there were not enough board members present to conduct official business. Several items were on the agenda, including a discussion on possible rent adjustments at River Bluff Townhomes. The EDA had tabled the discussion in September. Property manager Scott Van Binsbergen has traditionally recommended small annual adjustments of $10 per month for two-bedroom units and $15 for three-bedroom units. Any changes would require a 60-day written notice to tenants. Another item scheduled for consideration was a $1,000 retail trade analysis through the University of Minnesota Extension. The study, requested by various community organizations, would provide information about Windom’s retail economy and is expected to be completed by February 1st, 2027. The Board was also scheduled to review new marketing photographs, receive updates on economic development activities, and review financial reports for River Bluff Townhomes. According to an EDA Board member, there are hopes of scheduling a special meeting as early as Monday, October 19th, to address time-sensitive agenda items. However, that date has not been confirmed, as officials are still working to determine board member availability.
———————————————————
The school year is moving right along at Windom Area Schools, and during last night’s School Board meeting, administrators shared how things are going in the classrooms and where they’re focusing their attention. Elementary Principal Corey Barfknecht said fall testing has wrapped up, and teachers are now taking a closer look at the results to help students who may need a little extra support in reading and math. At the Middle School level, Principal Dane Nielsen shared that while there have been some behavior challenges early in the year, staff are working closely with students and families to reinforce expectations and help students make positive choices and High School Principal Brian Joyce reported a good start to the school year, although attendance continues to be an area of focus. Currently, about 86.5 percent of high school students are meeting the district’s attendance goal. Special Education Director Amanda Wilson noted that the district has 10 paraprofessional positions available across its buildings and welcomes applications from anyone interested in working with students. Substitute opportunities are also available. Throughout the reports, one common theme stood out, making sure students have the support, encouragement, and opportunities they need to succeed. The first quarter of the school year wraps up October 29th.