>>Governor Walz Orders Flags at Half Staff to Honor Firefighter Timothy Bertz
(St. Paul, MN) — Governor Tim Walz has ordered all U.S. and Minnesota flags at state buildings to be flown at half-staff on Monday, December 29th, in honor of Saint Paul Firefighter Timothy Bertz, who passed away on December 22nd. “Tim Bertz was the true definition of a public servant,” said Governor Walz. “From serving as a Navy SEAL to joining the Saint Paul Fire Department, his dedication left a lasting impact. Minnesota extends our deepest condolences to his wife, Andrea, and to all who knew him.” Bertz began his firefighting career in 2017, serving with the Harris and Lino Lakes fire departments before graduating from the Saint Paul Fire Academy on December 17th. Though new to the department, he was widely respected for his leadership and commitment. The Governor encourages individuals, businesses, and organizations across Minnesota to lower their flags in honor of him.
>>Cities Push for Boost in Local Government Aid as Property Taxes Rise
(Undated) — Many Minnesota cities are planning property tax increases next year to help cover the rising cost of services and local projects. Leaders with the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities say the pressure on local budgets is one reason they’re urging lawmakers to increase Local Government Aid. Coalition lobbyist Bradley Peterson notes that LGA funding hasn’t changed in two years. “The appropriation for the program is currently at 644 million dollars a year. The last time that was increased was in 2023 when there was a big surplus, and at that time they put in an additional 80 million dollars,” he said. Cities rely on LGA to support essential services, including police and fire, libraries, employee health insurance, and a range of community programs.
>>Zupancich Running for State Senate
(Babbitt, MN) – The mayor of Babbitt, Andrea Zupancich, announced she is running again for Minnesota Senate District 3. Besides mayor, the Republican is also a mother and local business owner. Zupancich says her platform will include restoring balance in state government and common-sense solutions to make life more affordable for families. Current DFL Senator Grant Hauschild defeated Zupancich in the 2022 election by getting 50.8 percent of the vote. Hauschild has said he is not running for Congress in 2026, setting up a possible rematch for the state senate seat in District 3.
>>Hastings American Legion Rejects Closure Rumors, But Will Temporarily Shut Down
(Hastings, MN) — The Hastings American Legion is shutting down temporarily to come up with a strategic plan. The American Legion Post 47 dispelled rumors that they were closing their doors permanently when they shut down on Christmas Eve. Hastings Legion officials released a Facebook post stating that they decided to take a step back to evaluate their current situation and develop a plan to shape how the club does business moving forward. The post also says that more updates on the future of the club would follow.
>>Plea Hearing Scheduled for Minnesota Appeals Court Judge Charged With DWI
(Hastings, MN) — A Minnesota Court of Appeals judge accused of driving while intoxicated is set to appear in court next week. Renee Worke, 67, was arrested in Owatonna last month and now faces two gross misdemeanor DWI charges. According to investigators, Worke allegedly struck a snowbank shortly before being taken into custody. Her plea hearing is scheduled for January 2 in Steele County Court.
