To a bill introduced that would help cities pay for wastewater and drinking water infrastructure
projects.

A bill proposed this week at the state Legislature would allocate $167 million in state bonding dollars for three grant and loan programs administered by the Public Facilities Authority.

We support this bill, as cities such as Albert Lea could use this funding to upgrade outdated wastewater treatment plants.

The permit for the city’s wastewater treatment plant expired in 2014, and the city issued a request for a wastewater discharge permit in November of that year. The city is still waiting for a new permit and bracing for the potential of a phosphorous limit at the facility, which would result in millions of dollars of needed upgrades. 

The funds could also help Albert Lea with funding to connect water and sewer lines to the Stables area.

To exploring the idea for coordinated transit between Albert Lea and Austin.

Albert Lea city officials said this week they are looking into the possibility of a coordinated transit approach with Austin and Mower County to give residents the opportunity to get to and from Austin for medical services, Riverland Community College and other businesses.

This service would help many residents without transportation get to appointments in Austin easier once most inpatient services at Mayo Clinic Health System are transported there.

We encourage city officials in both communities to continue this discussion.

To warmer temperatures.

At this time of year, most people are a little eager for spring weather.

This past week, we have been lucky to see temperatures in the 30s and 40s, with temperatures forecasted to reach 45 degrees today and Sunday.

Though rain and possible snow are forecasted for early next week, we’ve enjoyed seeing some of the snow melt and some sunshine.

We look forward to spring’s real arrival — hopefully later this month or early next month, though it’s too soon to tell.

To Tigers wrestlers.

It has been fun as always to cheer on Albert Lea’s wrestling team at the state wrestling tournament in St. Paul.

On Thursday, wrestlers had the chance to compete as a team and came out winning fifth place in Class AAA. On Friday and today, wrestlers have competed individually, and we look forward to seeing the outcome of those matches.

Congratulations to all of the boys and their coaches, who have put in many hours of hard work and dedication. We are proud of your success.

To a lack of transportation funding.

Freeborn County is lacking about $5 million yearly in pavement funding. That becomes especially visible at this time of year as snow and ice are melting and potholes become more apparent.

We have said it before, and we will say it again: State and federal levels need to approve increased transportation funding. Our roads are critical to our community’s well-being and to our economic vitality.