A bonding bill is expected to come out of the legislative session this year, and one project under consideration for funding through the bill is the Northwest Minnesota Rural Water Project. R&J News had the chance to visit with Senate Minority leader Mark Johnson, who explains the benefit of rural water and how it’s gaining attention at the capital.

On top of rural water, Johnson says there are a lot of entities across Northwest Minnesota that are seeking funds through a bonding bill. This includes flood projects and hospitals.

That full interview with Senator Johnson:

By: Graham Scher | R&J Broadcasting Inc.

Warroad, Minn — Warroad Townhall meeting met in regular session Tuesday night at the Warroad High School Theater. City leaders and community members gathered to discuss how Warroad can continue to grow and stay competitive in Northern Minnesota.

In a small, rural community, Warroad Community Development stays focused on financial growth. WCD’s Executive Director Sarah Carling spoke with us about what economic growth would mean for a rural community like Warroad.

Efforts to support local businesses, attract new investment, and create jobs are seen as critical to keeping families in the area and maintaining a strong tax base. Carling spoke on how the community continues to work together at driving economic growth and what resources are available.

By prioritizing continued economic development, Warroad is far less at risk of falling behind neighboring communities that are also competing for residents, workers, and tourism.

Minnesota FFA inducted MN Ag Commissioner Thom Petersen into the Minnesota FFA Hall of Fame at their State Convention earlier this week. Commissioner Petersen says he is honored to be inducted. 

Despite not being a member of FFA in his youth, Petersen says FFA is a very valuable organization.

Peterson says FFA teaches students numerous leadership skills, but one that always stands out to him in his profession is that they teach students how to conduct a meeting. 

According to the Minnesota Department of Ag website, Thom Petersen was appointed Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Agriculture in 2019 and reappointed in 2023. Before being appointed Commissioner, Petersen served as the Director of Government Relations for Minnesota Farmers Union.

The Minnesota National Guard is made of Approximately 13,000 people, and recruiters are always looking to add to this number. Minnesota National Guard 1st Sergeant Lance Meyer says joining the Minnesota National Guard makes you eligible for a number of different benefits, including their famous education benefits. 

Meyer says the relationships and connections made through the National Guard are also a priceless benefit that enlistees receive. 

More information about the Minnesota National Guard and enlistment can be seen on their website at mn.gov/mnng.