The upgrades to the City Arena are nearing their final stages with contractors planning to complete the new refrigeration system for both the Nystrom and Colstrup rinks in early March. Approved by voters in a 2024 referendum, the refrigeration system is the largest part of the project. It will serve both rinks and improve energy…

At its Feb. 9 meeting, the Albert Lea City Council appointed Ted Herman to serve as the Ward 3 city councilor for the remainder of 2026. In his application, he noted his skills in collaboration, problem-solving and decision-making. Also, as a retiree, Herman said he offers flexibility in taking on more civic responsibilities.  He served…

The Albert Lea City Council voted Feb. 9 to introduce changes to local cannabis ordinances, including raising the local limit from two to four registrations within City of Albert Lea limits. The city has registered two cannabis businesses so far, neither of which has opened yet due to issues with product availability. Other changes would…

On Feb. 12, 2026, at approximately 9:29 a.m., the Albert Lea Police Department (ALPD) assisted the Minnesota Department of Corrections (DOC) Fugitive Apprehension Unit in locating and apprehending a wanted supervised releasee. The fugitive was a passenger in a vehicle being followed by Minnesota DOC agents. ALPD initiated a traffic stop near Fountain Street and…

The Albert Lea City Council will vote Monday on appointing a resident of Ward 3 to serve on the council for the remainder of 2026. After receiving many applications and interviewing six candidates, Mayor Rich Murray is recommending Ted Herman, a former school resources officer with the Albert Lea Police Department. Herman also served as…

Albert Lea Fire Rescue responded to 923 Lakewood Ave. on Monday, Feb. 2, at 3:41 a.m. for the report of a space heater on fire. Fire crews arrived on scene and found the resident had extinguished the fire by unplugging the space heater and pouring a cup of water on it. Both residents received smoke inhalation and…

Six residents of Ward 3 have applied for the Albert Lea City Council seat recently vacated by Jason Howland: Scott Christensen, David Enser, Nicholas Hanke, Elizabeth Harty, Ted Herman and Todd Utpadel. Mayor Rich Murray is interviewing the candidates before making a selection. Under city ordinance, he may appoint a Ward 3 resident to serve…

The Albert Lea City Council recently accepted feasibility reports for the following street projects and set public hearings on the project for its Feb. 23 meeting. These projects aim to improve ride quality, enhance safety and update aging infrastructure throughout Albert Lea. The Engineering Department will hold neighborhood meetings on the projects to provide information…

Freeborn County and the City of Albert Lea are inviting residents and visitors to take a short online survey by Feb. 13 about the proposed Songbird Trail to help guide future planning, improvements, and decision-making related to the trail. Access the survey by going to https://hdr.jotform.com/253483965770066. The proposed 50-mile regional trail would support walking, biking…

The Albert Lea Police Department (ALPD) invites community members to go behind the badge during its upcoming 8-week Citizens Academy. The program, which began in 2001, is designed to provide residents with a transparent, hands-on look at the policies, challenges and daily operations of local law enforcement. Classes will meet Monday evenings March 16 through…