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Local sales tax ending, renewal up to Legislature
The Albert Lea City Council will vote Monday on ending the half-cent sales tax implemented in 2005 to fund watershed projects. The city expects the sales tax to reach its maximum amount of $30 million late this summer so is proposing to end the tax on Sept. 30. This schedule gives the State of Minnesota…
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Council vote: Rezone land to make way for business expansion?
At its meeting Monday, the Albert Lea City Council will vote on approving a plat change for 4 acres at 1822 Viking Avenue. The council will also vote on changing the zoning from residential to industrial. The property owners are requesting the changes for potential sale to Vortex Cold Storage in the Jobs Industrial Park.…
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Filings close for Albert Lea City Council: 3 face challengers, 2 unopposed
Albert Lea will hold a primary on Tuesday, Aug. 11 for the Ward 4 city council seat with three residents filing for the office: Charles Alkula, Joey Neely and incumbent Reid Olson. On the Nov. 3 general election ballot, Mayor Rich Murray will face challenger Tiffany Fearing and Ward 2 Councilor Larry Baker will face…
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City of Albert Lea invites residents to serve as election judges for 2026 elections
The City of Albert Lea is accepting applications for election judges for the upcoming 2026 election cycle. Serving as an election judge offers residents a meaningful opportunity to give back to the local community, ensure fair and accurate voting, and gain firsthand insight into the democratic process. To qualify, applicants must be eligible to vote…
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Summer fun to sizzle in Albert Lea
With school out for summer, the Albert Lea Recreation Department offers several recreational programs for kids and families to have fun, stay safe and try new activities. On Sunday, May 31, at 2 p.m., kids of all ages can try hockey for free at the City Arena, 701 Lake Chapeau Drive. The Albert Lea Hockey…
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Council updates pet regulations, including new limit
At its May 26 meeting, the Albert Lea City Council introduced updates to its animal ordinance, including a new limit allowing up to 4 animals of any combination of dogs and cats per household. The measure passed on a 4-3 vote. The previous limit was 2 dogs and 2 cats. Other changes include: The changes…
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Solar installation at City Hall begins May 26
Contractors will begin installing solar panels on City Hall on Tuesday, May 26. On Tuesday, crews will stage equipment and materials in the parking area in front of the old fire station doors on Fountain Street. On Thursday, May 28, a crane will arrive on-site to lift equipment to the roof. Crews will also park…
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Albert Lea house fire
Albert Lea Fire Rescue (ALFR) responded to 1700 Eberhart St on May 17 at 12:52 a.m. for the report of a house fire. Upon arrival, firefighters found a small fire in the kitchen on-top of the stove and nearby cupboards. The residents were all out of the home. Fire crews quickly extinguished the fire and kept…
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Filings open Tuesday for 5 of 7 Albert Lea City Council seats
Filings open Tuesday, May 19 for five of the seven seats on the Albert Lea City Council. The following seats are open: Mayor and Ward 2, 4 and 6 city council seats, now held by Rich Murray, Larry Baker, Reid Olson and Brian Anderson, respectively. These seats are for 4-year terms. Voters will also elect…
