Baudette Works to Strengthen Vendor Process for Future Events

By: Graham Scher | R&J Broadcasting Inc.

BAUDETTE, Minn — Baudette City Council members met last week and reviewed one issue that came out of the city’s Fourth of July celebration after a food truck operated during the holiday weekend without first obtaining the required city permit. Council members discussed the situation and how to handle it while continuing to support the events that bring residents and visitors together each year. Councilwoman Liz Weigel explains what happened and how the council responded.

Weigel says community celebrations like the Fourth of July are important for rural communities like Baudette, helping draw visitors, support local businesses and create opportunities for vendors. She says the city’s goal is to work with businesses ahead of time so everyone understands the permitting process and can be part of future events.

City officials say they hope the discussion helps strengthen future events by making the permitting process clear while continuing to welcome vendors and support community celebrations.

Minnesota DNR Offering $1.7 Million In Grants For Emerald Ash Borer Impact

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is offering $1.7 million in community grants to help address the impact of emerald ash borer on community forests. Applications for the 2026 Protect Community Forests Grants open August 3, with funding provided by the Minnesota Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund. The grants will support removing, treating or replacing infested trees, conducting tree inventories, developing management plans, and educational outreach.

Eligible applicants include tribal governments, nonprofits, educational institutions, and local government units, with maximum awards of $150,000. The application period closes September 14. Northwest Minnesota residents can attend an informational session on August 7 from 10:15 to 11:45 a.m. at the Bemidji Public Library, 509 America Ave. NW. More information is available at mndnr.gov/2026-protect.