A number of Minnesotans are headed to the huge motorcycle rally in Sturgis, South Dakota that begins tomorrow (Fri), despite COVID warnings from state health officials. Commissioner Jan Malcolm says, “There are people coming in to the event from high-incidence states and… it’s just a pretty ripe environment for further spread and folks bringing the […]
Investigation blames MN Natl Guard helicopter crash on incorrect repair, test pilot error
A military investigation blames the December crash of a National Guard Blackhawk helicopter that took the lives of three soldiers on incorrect installation of an engine part… an inspector not catching the error… and the maintenance test pilot not taking proper action when critical problems developed during the test flight. Chief Warrant Officer 2 Charles […]
Proposal to replace Minneapolis Police Department will *not* be on ballot this fall
A controversial city council proposal to replace the Minneapolis Police Department with a “Community Safety and Violence Prevention” agency will *not* be on the ballot this fall after the Charter Commission voted 10-to-5 Wednesday evening to further study the issue. Commissioner Toni Newborn voted against the delay, saying change must happen now: “I hear gunshots […]
Congresswoman Omar taps supporters for tough primary election battle
Fifth District Congresswoman Ilhan Omar is tapping support from community leaders and elected officials as she faces a tough primary election battle next Tuesday against fellow Democrat Antone Melton-Meaux. D-F-L Party leaders have filed a federal elections complaint, alleging his campaign set up mysterious shell companies to hide millions of dollars in spending. A Melton-Meaux […]
Drone hovering over center field delays Twins game at Target Field
Minneapolis police are investigating after a drone hovering over Target Field delayed the Twins game against Pittsburgh for about nine minutes this afternoon. Players were taken off the field as a precaution. There were no fans in the stands because of COVID-19. A Twins official says the drone hovered over center field for a few […]
Will state prison closures at Willow River, Togo increase COVID threat at other facilities?
State officials for budget reasons are closing Minnesota’s two smallest prisons, in Willow River and Togo, and will move inmates to two other facilities — either Stillwater, Faribault, Lino Lakes or Red Wing. And what about COVID concerns at those facilities? Corrections Commissioner Paul Schnell says, “We will increase the density but we will manage […]
Bonding bill likely won’t be on MN Legislature’s agenda during expected August special session
Don’t expect state lawmakers to try a fourth time to pass a bonding bill for state public works projects, when the legislature likely has another special session around the middle of this month. House Speaker, Democrat Melissa Hortman says because the state is selling previously-authorized bonds in August, that special session will be “a very […]
Officials look at other LRT routes for NW metro after BNSF talks prove fruitless
Officials said today they’ll look at other routes for a proposed Blue Line light rail extension in the northwest metro, after Burlington Northern Santa Fe said for years it won’t share its right-of-way with passenger service. Metropolitan Council Chairman Charles Zelle says a different route could actually serve the area better. “This area of the […]
State to close prisons in Willow River, Togo due to budget shortfall
Minnesota corrections officials say they’ll close the state’s two smallest prisons — in Willow River and Togo — to help plug a 14-million-dollar budget gap. They says most of 100 state employee positions at the two facilities will be eliminated, however some personnel must be retained to support programs at other minimum-custody prisons. Corrections Commissioner […]
Dems at Minnesota Legislature roll out campaign agenda
Paid family and medical leave for all Minnesotans… expand pre-kindergarten… allow anyone to buy health insurance through Minnesotacare — among Minnesota Democrats’ top priorities as they go on the campaign trail. To move that agenda in 2021, they must keep their majority in the Minnesota House and take control of the state Senate — which […]