The first local special election of the year was Feb. 10, and two northwest Minnesota counties hosted special elections to fill vacancies on their county boards of commissioners.
Robert Durant will now represent Mahnomen County District 1, which is the city of Mahnomen’s district. He garnered 46 votes compared to his opponent, Brian Ose, with 40 votes. Julie Hanson earned all 19 of the special election’s write-in results.
Ross Pape was sworn in Tuesday, Feb. 17, after being successful in the Polk County special election for Commissioner District 5. The district includes wards in East Grand Forks and surrounding townships. Pape garnered 321 votes compared to his opponent, Brad Grunhovd, who received 79 votes.
Most special elections can only occur on specific dates, per state statute. For 2026 those dates are:
- Feb. 10
- April 14
- May 12
- Aug. 11
The next special elections in Northern Minnesota are April 14, when the Aitkin and Staples-Motley school districts will ask voters to approve building projects.
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Plus: the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission will host public hearings on Otter Tail Power Co.'s proposed electric rate increase; and the Brainerd Area League of Women Voters will host a Crow Wing County election official. -
Contributed/Rock Ridge Softball via FacebookFactoring in Virginia and Eveleth-Gilbert's histories, it's still the first appearance for the area since 2001. Brainerd, Sebeka, Red Lake Falls, Esko and Barnum will also compete. -
Contributed/Otter Tail PowerOtter Tail Power is proposing an 18% rate increase for customers as the utility invests in infrastructure, grid resiliency and the transition to renewable energy sources. -
Events this week include the First Friday Art Walk in Grand Rapids and programs at Lake Bemidji State Park.
