The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development announced more than $91 million in awards under the Public Facilities Authority.
A large portion of the funding is dedicated to replacing nearly 1,000 lead service lines in 15 cities across the state.
Crosby is receiving $309,000 in funding to replace 34 lead lines with copper, and Thief River Falls will also receive more than $930,710 in funding to replace 75 lead lines.
“The [Authority’s] work in keeping our water clean, drinkable and accessible is an investment in Minnesota’s health, environment and economy,” stated Minnesota PFA Executive Director Steve Walter in a Dec. 10 news release.
“By providing crucial financing and technical assistance to communities that might not have access to it otherwise, the MPFA encourages economic growth and protects the health of Minnesotan communities, creating the infrastructure for long-term prosperity.”
The Public Facilities Authority aims to help cities replace aging infrastructure and make system improvements to protect public health and improve water quality.
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Contributed/Peggy Flanagan for U.S. SenateThe retiring senator's endorsement in the race between Flanagan and U.S. Rep. Angie Craig comes just before party members share their thoughts on Caucus Night, Feb. 3, 2026. -
Contributed/Pixabay via PexelsThe State Fire Marshal is investigating the cause of the explosion in a six-unit building near the Duluth Airport. -
Scott Rodgerson/UnsplashDouglas and Tiffany Stewart died Jan. 30, 2026, after a train struck their vehicle west of Cass Lake in rural Hubbard County. The incident is under investigation. -
Contributed/Tony Webster via Wikimedia CommonsU.S. District Court Judge Kate Menendez said the court could not grant a pause of the surge based on the arguments in the case. -
Plus: Two deans were removed from their positions at Bemidji State University; the Bagley City Council is no longer considering disbanding its police force; and the DNR is seeking 200 summer interns. -
Plus: Caucus Night is coming on Tuesday — here's what to expect.
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Lorie Shaull/KAXEAbout 80 students walked three blocks to the Crow Wing County Judicial Center in downtown Brainerd to line both sides of Laurel Street. Many carried anti-ICE signs and chanted together. -
Contributed/St. Louis County Sheriff's Office Facebook pageMichael Hart, 40, previously escaped state custody at the Northeast Regional Corrections facility in St. Louis County in September 2025. -
Chelsey Perkins/KAXECriminal histories include a 2002 DWI conviction for one, and a 2010 underage drinking conviction for the other. Two others arrested without warrants are being held pending removal proceedings. -
Lorie ShaullCaucus night is the first step of the political party organizing process, where you can help shape the party platform, support candidates and learn ways to get more involved.
