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/Karina Kafka / Report for MinnesotaBusinesses with fewer than 50 employees that operate a physical location, including licensed home businesses and small farms, would be eligible for aid. -
Contributed/Pequot Lakes High School via FacebookThe Patriots beat conference rivals Albany in the third-place game, and the Rebels lost to Henning to finish fourth. -
Contributed/freestocks.org via PexelsWhile spring burning restrictions are in place, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources will not issue open burning permits for yard waste. -
Contributed/Roseau County Sheriff's OfficeThe Roseau County Sheriff's Office reported it conducted a precautionary evacuation to the Patch Motel in Warroad. -
Canva illustrationThe Minnesota State Patrol reported alcohol was suspected to be a factor in the crash. -
Greater Minnesota Housing Fund's Nate Dorr discusses the next steps after a Beltrami County-specific housing study shows high demand for new housing builds across all categories. -
Larissa Donovan/KAXEThe Bemidji Public Library is cutting its staff and reducing its hours following significant reductions in funding from Beltrami County. -
Plus: MnDOT will host an open house Tuesday ahead of its 2026 construction season in Brainerd; and the Bemidji Public Library hosted a send-off Friday as it prepares to cut its staff and reduce its hours.
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Contributed/Smokey the Bear | National Forest ServiceThe National Weather Service says a red flag warning will be in effect from noon to 7 p.m. March 28, 2026. -
Contributed/Francesco Ungaro via PexelsThe Cass County Sheriff’s Office received the report about 10:45 p.m. at the sawmill east of Highway 371. Deputies found the kiln drying and storage building engulfed in flames.
