Several Northwest Minnesota mayors are speaking out about Minnesota’s fiscal direction. The Grand Forks Herald reports that mayors Dan Fabien, Mike Lorenson, and Tom Goldsmith joined nearly one hundred mayors statewide in signing a letter to Governor Tim Walz and state lawmakers. The letter raises concerns over state spending decisions, unfunded mandates, and fiscal management as cities prepare 2026 property tax levies.
According to preliminary Minnesota Department of Revenue figures, city property tax levies are expected to increase by an average of 8.7 percent statewide next year. Local leaders say when costs are shifted without funding, residents and businesses feel the impact.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has released its 2025 highlights, including completion of a new master plan for the Roseau River Wildlife Management Area. The plan outlines future management of habitat, wildlife populations, and public access.
Ice fishing has started strong on Lake of the Woods and the Rainy River. The Lake of the Woods Tourism Bureau reports solid ice conditions, with resorts opening ice roads and trucks accessing fishing areas. Early catches include walleyes, saugers, jumbo perch, northern pike, and eelpout.
Officials say fishing has been best in twenty-three to twenty-eight feet of water using jigging spoons tipped with minnows.
The Roseau County Board approved its 2026 detention center nursing services contract with LifeCare Medical Center, ensuring continued medical coverage at the Law Enforcement Center.
The Roseau School Board met December 15, approving district bills and continuing work on the 2026 tax levy. Enrollment remains steady at just over one-thousand students.
The City of Roseau reminds residents of a special post-holiday garbage pickup from December 29th through January 2nd, with extra bagged garbage and boxes accepted. January 1st routes move to January 2nd. Missed items can be dropped off for ten dollars.
Last modified: 01/04/2026
