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Into compliance: ALPD and health department inspect cannabis retailers
The Albert Lea Police Department (ALPD) and Minnesota Department of Health recently brought several local retailers into compliance with regulations on selling cannabis products. No citations were issued because business owners were cooperative in taking corrective actions. In response to complaints about Albert Lea retailers selling illegal cannabis products, the ALPD and health department inspected…
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Trails in Albert Lea lead to fun

Blazing Star State Trail The Blazing Star State Trail runs about 6 miles from Frank Hall Park, 505 Frank Ave., in Albert Lea to Myre-Big Island State Park, 19499 780th Ave. The trail is open to hiking, biking, in-line skating and wheelchairs. Users will enjoy rural views along the way and excellent birding spots in…
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Get to know the Albert Lea Police Department: Applications open for 2024 Citizens Academy
The Albert Lea Police Department invites residents to participate in its upcoming Citizens Academy program, offering an inside look into the daily operations of local law enforcement. Classes are scheduled for Thursdays from 7 to 9:30 p.m. beginning March 14 and continuing through May 13. Sessions cover various topics including DWI/traffic enforcement, use of force…
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Serve your community and learn about elections: Become an election judge in Albert Lea

Albert Lea is seeking applications for election judges for the upcoming 2024 election. This is a great opportunity for citizens to learn more about the election process and serve their community. The city of Albert Lea is encouraging all eligible voters who can read, write, and speak English to apply for the position. Election judges…
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Shape the future of fun: Volunteer for Parks and Recreation Advisory Board

The City of Albert Lea is seeking candidates for an open seat on its Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. This is a great way to volunteer and shape the community’s recreational opportunities, park amenities and overall image. Jodi Hartman began serving on the board while a stay-at-home mom. She says it gave her a chance…
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Albert Lea Public Library seeking volunteers for advisory board

The Albert Lea Public Library is seeking applicants to fill an open seat on its advisory board. This group helps the library connect residents with books they want, the information they need and the community they live in. Jamaira Escobar, a current member of the advisory board, finds the volunteer work to be rewarding by…
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DEED announces cleanup grant for Blazing Star Landing in Albert Lea

The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) announced today that nearly $2.15 million in Contamination Cleanup and Investigation grants were awarded to six communities statewide. The grants will help the awarded communities assess and clean up contaminated sites for private or public redevelopment and create or retain more than 100 jobs. The City…
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Man arrested after stabbing in Albert Lea
At 10:25 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 9, a reporting person contacted Freeborn County Dispatch indicating his 23-year-old brother was stabbed in the leg with a knife by their uncle. Albert Lea Police Department, Fire Rescue and Mayo Clinic Ambulance Service responded to 1014 Garfield Ave. Upon arrival, responders located the 23-year-old male victim outside the residence…
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Filings open May 21 for Albert Lea City Council seats
Filings open Tuesday, May 21, at 8 a.m. for three of the seven Albert Lea City Council seats. The following are up for election: Wards 1, 3, and 5, now held by Rachel Christensen, Jason Howland and Robert Rasmussen, respectively. Ward 1 voters elected Christensen in 2022 to finish the term of Rich Murray who…