Freeborn County and the City of Albert Lea report more continued success at securing grant money to build the Songbird Trail along 15 miles of a former rail line between Albert Lea and Hartland. “Development of the Songbird Trail has received wide support from residents since the original purchase of the abandoned rail line in…

Freeborn County officially recycled more than it trashed last year, diverting 22,280 tons of material away from landfills. While a major win for the environment, the community still sent 18,693 tons of garbage to landfills, a number that local officials are challenging residents and businesses to cut even more this year. To help increase recycling…

ANNOUNCED AT MARCH 23 CITY COUNCIL MEETING: Glenville American Legion Post 264 makes history this May as the first Minnesota post to launch the Nation of Patriots motorcycle tour. This 115-day journey carries a single American flag through all 50 states to raise funds for veterans and their families. Join the festivities! Friday, May 15:…

Blue Zones Albert Lea invites local residents to keep stepping toward a longer, healthier life with a community walk on Saturday, April 18, beginning at 10 a.m. at the Marion Ross Theater, 147 N. Broadway Ave., Albert Lea. After a short program on Blue Zones healthy habits, participants will walk part of the Blue Zones…

On March 21, 2026, at approximately 5:08 p.m., Albert Lea Police Department (ALPD) officers were dispatched to a residence on Broadway Avenue South for a reported assault. Initial reports indicated that a 77-year-old resident was bleeding from the head after being attacked. Upon arrival, officers confirmed the victim was suffering from a head wound. Witnesses…

The Albert Lea Board of Appeals, photo above, plays an important role in reviewing requests for zoning variances, which are exceptions to rules that guide land use and development, including building height, size and setbacks. These rules are designed to protect public health, safety and neighborhood character. However in a community with a long history…

The City of Albert Lea is inviting developers, builders and other interested parties to submit proposals for developing affordable housing on several properties owned by the city or the Albert Lea Economic Development Agency. This initiative is part of an ongoing effort to expand housing options and strengthen neighborhoods throughout the community. The Request for…

After recently increasing its limit on cannabis businesses from two to four, the Albert Lea City Council will vote on registrations for two more applicants at its meeting on Monday: Big Dream Organics is an existing retailer of CBD products at 1039 S. Broadway Ave. The registration would allow It to expand its line of…

Chief Darren Hanson, left, honors Sgt. Alex Kunkel for his role in the life-saving rescue of an abducted child. Alex was recognized at Monday’s City Council meeting for his tactical judgment and commitment to duty. Officer Josh Knudtson, right, receives a formal commendation from Chief Darren Hanson. Josh was one of the primary officers who…