We are finally getting the weather we have been waiting for after a long winter. It feels like we jumped right into summer, FINALLY!
Things continue to be very busy. I attended the bi-annual Stearns County Township Officials meeting, the Stearns County City Officials quarterly meeting, and the Stearns County Firemen’s quarterly. It’s these men and women who serve our communities on the closest level of government for the people, and I want to continue to assist them in serving the people we all represent in a cooperative partnership. County Board meetings and work sessions to discuss the Justice Center proposed building have also been held. I also continue to attend the committee meetings I have been appointed to as a Commissioner.
I also attended several Town Hall meetings regarding issues of the day, especially our 2nd Amendment’s right to bear arms, and a request for the County to pass a Resolution supporting that right. I support passing a Resolution. I’m not getting a lot of willingness from the Board to go on record supporting this right. I’ll keep listening to the people, and keep trying to convince the Board to at least discuss the issue, but I can’t get that done alone. More than 20 counties have already gone on record with their support.
The Stearns County Parks Department has begun an update of our County Park Plan. As part of that plan, there is a survey on our county website that I would encourage you to complete. If you use our parks, and especially if you don’t, take the survey so we can learn what can be done better to increase park usage.
The ROCORI Trail Board will have a trail dedication Saturday, June 17, beginning at 1 p.m. with fun activities, including two pedal pubs. Watch for more details, and join in on the celebration marking the completion of this great trail. Now the ROCORI Trail Board and the Lake Koronis Trail Board will join forces to complete the seven miles of the Glacial Lakes Trail between Richmond and Roscoe.
The County Board conducted a road tour throughout Stearns County to review the five-year road plan, and begin to identify future projects. The -Stearns County Highway Department is seeking input on that plan and that too is on the County website. We stopped at Rotochopper in
St. Martin for a very interesting tour of their plant. A lot of great things are happening in Stearns County.
Xcel Energy made a presentation to the Board, at my request, regarding their transmission line they are planning to cross a large part of the state, and -Stearns County. I’m trying to make sure Stearns County residents are informed and have a right to share their questions and concerns. I have been assured there will be an open house on this issue in the Kimball. St. Augusta area where the line will have its largest impact. Watch for an open house announcement, and look for more information on that project on Xcel’s website at MNEnergyConnection.com.
I am honored to have been asked to speak at the Cold Spring Legion area Memorial Day programs held at several local cemeteries and locations. Please join us in a fitting way to remember those who have served our Country in such an honorable way.
The parade and community celebration season will start soon, and we look forward to being there enjoying the events and visiting with area residents. I feel it is so important to stay connected to the people I represent. Thank you for that privilege.
Please continue to contact me at:
Jeff Bertram, Commissioner
Stearns County – District 3
(320) 250-6999