April 11, 2024

Thursday, April 11, 2024

Vol. 159, Issue 15

Decorah, Iowa 52101 www.decorahnewspapers.com

One Section email: news@decorahnewspapers.com

By Zach Jensen

P&Z board discusses façade colors, aging mural at former Donlon’s Pharmacy location Decorah Planning & Zoning Commission held its monthly meeting Monday at 5:30 p.m., at Decorah City Hall. The lone item on the agenda was discussion and action regarding C-3 design plans for the old Donlon’s Pharmacy location at 201 and 205 West Water Street and 101 Winnebago Street.

The site plan was submitted by Caleb Ulring with JNC LLC, and consists of repainting the entire exterior, adding trim molding around the second-floor windows, re-addition of a commercial door on Water Street, the addition of two murals and rehabilitation of the current mural.

From the plan specifications, the objective of the building — which was previously three buildings opened to create one large space — is to split the single space into three again, creating more small-business-friendly spaces downtown. Each of the three buildings would be painted different colors, with consistent simple trim molding with consistent simple trim molding added to second-floor windows, and doors with transom windows installed at the 205 West Water Street location.

Ulring explained the three colors selected for the façades were inspired by Norwegian wharfs like Bergen and Trondheim, chosen by a local Folk Art Teacher and assistant to Norwe-

gian artist Sigmund Aarseth.

The large mural on the Winnebago side of the building is around 40 years old and is peeling. Ulring asked the Decorah Chamber of Commerce to contact the original artist to discuss restoration options, but several months passed without any reply. Ulring is currently working with local muralist and artist Hannah Tulgren and StoryPeople’s Ellen Rockne to create additional murals that will harmonize with the building and downtown atmosphere and history.

City Manager Travis Goedken explained to the commission that the site plan was reviewed by the city’s Historic Preservation Commission, who

were ultimately split, with several HPC members voicing the colors were too different from the rest of downtown and should be more muted. They did vote unanimously to endorse the entryway at 205 West Water Street, the second story window trim and the owner’s desire to paint the exterior.

Goedken did point out the HPC members would also like to see the historic-themed mural redone, and Ulring assured the P&Z board he would contact Carl Homstad to discuss options for the mural restoration.

The site plan passed unanimously and will be presented to Decorah City Council at their

Another wall may have been built between some members of the Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors during Monday morning’s regular meeting, when one supervisor questioned others about a wall that was built in the new Community Services Building (formerly Spectrum) without the entire board’s knowledge or approval.

After the county’s purchase of the building last month, someone from Spectrum reportedly reached out to one of the supervisors to have a dividing wall built to separate space for the both Spectrum and the Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging (NEI3A). Because the non-load-bearing wall was so inexpensive, County Auditor Ben Steines said the expense didn’t require board approval.

Supervisor Co-Chair Mark Vick subsequently ordered the construction of the wall by Dave Hanson of Fixxit LLC of Decorah. The wall was completed in the last couple weeks, but Supervisor Shirley Vermace didn’t agree with Vick’s course of action.

“The only thing we’ve decided as a group is to purchase the building,” Vermace said during Monday’s discussion. “I haven’t seen a master plan. Is there a master plan developed by all key players here?”

“That’s what’s in process,” replied Supervisor Steve Kelsay. “We’re trying to determine what is needed.”

Kelsay said the Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging (NEI3A) has said it wants four offices and use of the common areas in the building.

“That’s an architecturally-designed building,” said Vermace.

“I would hate to see us just randomly put up walls and dividers. As a county, we need to keep the aesthetics in mind, the capacity in mind, and there’s no

The Decorah Community School District (DCSD) wants to hear from the public…and soon.

In their continuing strategic planning efforts regarding a new elementary school, board members said the purpose of a survey, which is being mailed to area residents this week, is collecting information regarding the replacement of the 60-year-old John Cline Elementary School and West Side Early Childhood Center.

DCSD Superintendent Tim Cronin informed school board members Monday night that the survey postcards will arrive in

master plan.”

“I agree with you, Shirley” replied Kelsay.

“So, where is it?” Vermace asked.

“We don’t have one yet, because we don’t know what peoples’ needs are,” Kelsay rebutted. “The first thing we have to have is an understanding of possible tenants, what their space requirements are, how that could possibly fit within the space, and we’re not even close to that yet. The conference room where the wall was put up was 30-some-feet long, so we still have a conference room of about 19 by 20, which is somewhat like this room right here.”

“But, if we’re gonna start putting walls up or hallways or anything else,” Vermace said, “I’d think we would talk about that publicly in a meeting, together, before we move forward with that. We didn’t know what was going on.”

Supervisor Mark Faldet then suggested the county should consult an architect when deciding on what changes to make to the interior design, but that idea didn’t go over so well with the other side of the table.

“No, we don’t have to do that,” said Vick. “We don’t need to hire an engineer to come and tell us where we can put a wall.

It’s a waste spending that kind of money. It’s just a wall.”

“We’re talking about design,” Faldet replied. “It needs to look … The flow, the HVAC …”

“We didn’t disrupt anything,” Vick said.

“None of that was disrupted,” Kelsay said. “All of that was taken into consideration.”

“I think these discussions need to be taking place around this table with all of us,” Vermace interjected. “Two people should not be making decisions on how or what should be

Visit us online - www.decorahnewspapers.com Supervisors Former Donlon location

Visit us online - www.decorahnewspapers continued on page 3

School district surveys residents about improving aging facility

By Roz Weis

fax: 563-382-5949

Freeport property sale public hearing May 6

ISU Extension and Outreach and Winneshiek County Conservation co-hosted a Solar Eclipse Watch Party Monday afternoon April 8. Nearly 50 attendees learned about the solar eclipse, then put on their viewing glasses to watch the eclipse catching glimpses during gaps in the cloud cover. Winneshiek County Conservation Education Coordinator, Hanna Meyer, provided the educational program and Winneshiek County ISU Extension and Outreach provided viewing glasses. For more information about upcoming Winneshiek County Conservation events, visit www.winneshiekwild.com/upcoming-events and for more information about upcoming events with ISU Extension and Outreach in Winneshiek County, visit www.extension.iastate.edu/winneshiek. Pictured from left to right- Carol and Chase Hopp get comfortable at the grassy area near the Luther College campus in Decorah Monday; Delaney Clark, representing Winneshiek County Extension and Outreach, at right, hands out one of the safety glasses to Darlene Martin of Decorah; Violet Hatfield of near Burr Oak waits in anticipation for the first signs of the solar eclipse at the watch party April 8.

By Denise Lana

phone: 563-382-4221

New wall built at former Spectrum building further divides county supervisors

Clouds part just in time for local eclipse viewing

Driftless Multimedia photos by Roz Weis

Price One Dollar

5,000 community mailboxes this week. Surveys will help architects and administrators as plans for the new school move forward prior to a proposed November bond issue.

Board members agreed that it is important for the entire community to engage in conversations about the future of District schools and the students served at those schools.

“This is why the Decorah Community School District Board of Education wants to hear from you as it explores constructing a new elementary school,” board members noted in the survey cards.

The postcards feature a QR code and a website with direc-

tions to complete the survey online. The website is www.

DecorahSurvey.org. A paper copy of the survey also can be picked up at the District Administration Office at 1732 Old Stage Road. Questions can be directed to the office at 563382-4208.

DCSD board members and administrators have explored potential improvement options for John Cline Elementary School and West Side Early Childhood Center for the past 16 years.

Information detailed on the survey website explains much of the history of the proposal.

The renovation of John Cline School was estimated at ap-

proximately $9 million but would not meet the needs of the district. New construction is estimated at approximately $13 million.

According to the information included in the public survey, “This extensive evaluation has included discussions and visioning through board meetings, facility assessments by architects and engineers, consultation with teachers and staff, and communication with community partners. After consideration of renovation and new construction options, constructing a new elementary

School survey

continued on page 5

SUBSCRIPTIONS START AT JUST 71¢ A WEEK

Kristi Roffman, DCSD Administrative Assistant, shows a sample survey going out to 5,000 area households this week. The postcards encourage community members to complete a short survey regarding the proposed new facility.

(Driftless Multimedia photo by Roz Weis)

continued on page 5

2 Decorah Public Opinion Thursday, April 11, 2024

Learn about local food Saturday

The public is invited to the Local Food Fair this Saturday, April 13, at Convergence Ciderworks in Decorah from 2 to 4 p.m. This informal event will include live music and host farmers, the Iowa Food Hub, the Decorah Community Food Pantry, Seed Savers Exchange and more to share how to choose locally-harvested food this season.

According to event coordinator and Convergence taproom

manager Norah Hummel, the event will look like a farmers market with booths featuring familiar local farmers, however the producers will be offering education during this prelude to their growing season.

“The goal of the Local Food Fair is to connect the Decorah community with resources about how to shop locally this growing season,” said Hummel.

“Decorah is so unique in its robust local food system. Farmers

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Former Decorah Farmers Market manager Kristen Eggen welcomes visitors to last year’s Local Food Fair. (submitted) markets, farm dinners and farm to table restaurants draw tourists to the region. We are working on highlighting community supported agriculture and the many passionate players behind this network. Convergence Ciderworks is excited to host this event because it fosters community we are invested in. We use locally-grown apples in all of our cider; creating a product that’s a taste of the Driftless Region.”

Food Pantry For its part in the local food conversation, the Decorah Community Food Pantry will be on hand Saturday to discuss food waste and the pantry’s efforts rescuing food from six local partners (Fareway, HyVee, Walmart and all three Kwik Stars) and redistributing it to families in need. In 2023, a total of 199,957 pounds of food was rescued by the Decorah Community Food Pantry.

“We can not successfully address food insecurity without addressing food waste,” explained Decorah Community Food Pantry director Matt Tapscott.

Volunteers sort the rescued food and send the scraps to local farms to feed livestock or to compost. Every ounce of food is used locally.

Learn more about food waste and how food pantry clients have access to Decorah Farmers Market Products during the Local Food Fair Saturday.

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Participants In addition to the Decorah Community Food Pantry, representatives from the Decorah Farmers Market, Iowa Food Hub and Blazing Star will be on hand Saturday along with

Did you know...

Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) is a way for consumers to buy food directly from a farmer. A farmer offers shares (aka a “membership” or a “subscription”) consisting of a box of vegetables and other farm products. Consumers purchase a share and in return receive seasonal produce each week throughout the farming season.

CSA memberships not only mean ultra-fresh food for consumers – benefits to producers include opportunities to spend their time marketing the food early in the year, before their 16 hour days in the field begin. They receive payment early in the season, which helps with the farm’s cash flow.

Thinking about signing up for a CSA but want to learn more about the idea before committing? Saturday’s Local Food Fair will include CSA sign up and education. the following producers: Driftless Seed Supply, Seed Savers Exchange, Patchwork Green Farm, Humble Hands Harvest, Sweet Season Farm, River Root Farm, Oak and Olive Flowers and Canoe Creek Produce along with “There isn’t one right way to shop locally, and we are hoping that this event can help folks choose the best way to shop local for themselves and their families,” said Hummel. “The folks participating at this event are by no means the only local producers in the region. This is just a slice of the pie. If you want to eat local but don’t know where to begin, this is the event for you.”

The 22nd annual Women’s Weekend Out in Decorah (April 5-7) featured a full calendar of shopping, dining and entertainment opportunities throughout town.

ABOVE- Enjoying a shopping stop at Ace Kitchen Place during the Women’s Weekend Out festivities were, from left, Lauren Ude from Minneapolis, Minn., and Sarah Orton, Michelle Blake and Ashley Burtnett, all from Webster City.

(Driftless Multimedia photos by Roz Weis)

Linda Danielski takes part in the Kissable Lips contest at Revelation.

Customers were invited to try out a new Merle Norman lip color and kiss an entry form to be included in a drawing.

The mother-daughter shopping duo of Linda Christopherson and her daughter Carmen Johnson, both of Decorah, are pictured during a stop at KL Design in downtown Decorah during Women’s Weekend Out. The store offered locally handcrafted items and homemade lefse samples during the weekend.

Letter ‘… needs of the people should be served by the supervisors’

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Dear Editor: The Freeport Controversey has created such unhappiness and threads of hatred. Something needs to happen to bring the people together. One idea would be to allow the residents of Freeport or a community group the opportunity to do a fundraiser to see if they can raise the money to purchase the land. The supervisors would give the people a reasonable amount of time in order to fund

the project.

No one can predict what the flooding situation will be in the future. Anyone who has had to live through a flooding situation will say that the aftermath of a flood is devastating.

The needs of the people should be served by the supervisors.

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There will be an open house for Rick Bohr’s retirement as Assistant Water Superintendent at Decorah City Hall on Friday, April 12, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

The public is invited to attend.

Bohr has served the City of Decorah for 39 years.

Flowers for Barnetimen Laurie Worcester Decorah Children’s Hour April 16

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Vesterheim welcomes preschoolers and their caregivers to Barnetimen Children’s Hour Tuesday, April 16, at 10 a.m.

Meet in the lobby of the Museum Building to look for colorful flowers blooming in the patterns and decorations on objects in the museum’s collection. Then make flower-inspired art before enjoying a snack.

Barnetimen programs are free and geared toward 3- to 5-year-olds, but all ages are welcome. New programs are offered in person at the museum the third Tuesday of the month from 10-11 a.m., September through April. No reservations are needed, but larger groups of 10 or more are asked to contact the museum the day before the program to help with planning.

For more information, please contact Vesterheim Collection Manager Jennifer Kovarik at 563-382-9681 or jkovarik@ vesterheim.org.

Decorah Public Opinion Thursday, April 11, 2024

WED announces new director

Aase Haugen breaks ground for next-level senior care facility

The Winneshiek Energy District (WED) Board recently announced the appointment of Kristin Eggen as its new Executive Director, effective April 2. Eggen has been active in the Decorah community since 2015 when she joined the Green Iowa AmeriCorps team to help provide energy efficiency services in northeast Iowa. Eggen later joined the WED staff, supervising the AmeriCorps team and coordinating WED communi-

cations and fundraising efforts.

Since 2020, she has been a gift officer for Seed Savers Exchange and has been a manager of the Decorah Farmers Market.

Eggen replaces Andy Johnson, who was WED founder and director since its beginning in 2010. Johnson is now full time director of the Clean Energy Districts of Iowa (CEDI), an association of the current 12 Energy Districts in Iowa and one in Wisconsin.

• TRIMMING • REMOVAL Aase Haugen Senior Services broke ground on the new 72,000 square-foot nursing and assisted living facility on Monday, April 8. More than 85 community members participated in the event, including board members, staff, local leadership officials • STORM and members of the design and construction team. Pictured from left, Karen Berg, Thea Hartzel, Rex Nelson, Greg Brickl, DAMAGE Kim Berns, Mayor Lorraine Borowski, Jacob Bauer, David Robinson, Grant Soper, Patty Casterton, Pastor Mike Wilker, DECORAH BASED Wanda Askelson, Pastor Peter Kowitz, Kevin Sand, M.D., Tyler Wright, Sam Boeke, Mardy Holst, John Dambek, Rev. Roger • UTILITY Buhr, Brian Huinker, Steve Langland, Rebecca Hanna, Cindy Hoyme, Joel Farley and Pat Ries. (submitted) FULLY INSURED LINES FREE ESTIMATES Aase Haugen broke ground that will positively impact the community,” said Boeke. “We rooms and bathrooms for each dotzenrodtreeservice@gmail.com • CLIMBERS Monday, April 8 on its new long-term care needs for seniors appreciate the businesses and resident. senior care facility, which will who have built this beautiful individuals who made today’s The date of the groundbreakAVAILABLE 319-361-6856 feature 78 private rooms for community we have the benefit groundbreaking possible, and ing, April 8, was the birthday nursing and skilled care and 12 assisted living apartments.

With more than 72,000 square feet near Aase’s independent senior living neighborhoods of Vennehjem and Nabotunet, the new facility will replace the existing facility on Ohio Street in Decorah.

“Today was a special day,” said Sam Boeke, Aase Haugen executive director. “The groundbreaking marks the longplanned beginning of a facility

International programs are focus of Woman’s Club meeting

Jon Lund and Victoria Christman will explore Luther College’s mission statement at the next meeting of the Luther College Woman’s Club April 16 at 1:30 p.m. in the Peace Dining Room on the Luther campus.

Shuttle service from the Decorah Swimming Pool is available and leaves at 1:10 p.m. In addition to the program, a short business meeting with refreshments and music will be held.

In their presentation, “Into a Larger World: Insights on Luther’s International Students and International and Off-Campus Programs,” Lund and Christman will discuss Luther’s international students and international and off-campus programs.

For information, visit luther. edu/alumni-friends/engage/ stay-connected/womans-club.

of enjoying.”

The new facility will provide a variety of care levels in a home-like setting. This includes caring for those without the funds to pay for care themselves. With the “A New Place to Call Home” capital campaign, Aase Haugen is working toward raising $3 million. More than $1.5 million has already been raised.

“We are truly grateful for the support we’ve seen from the

Depot Outlet funds will be used towards a reconnaissance survey of historic barns in Winneshiek County. The survey will include the listing of the historic names of these properties, locations, dates of construction, dates of usages and other relevant historical information. The grant funds will assist the commission in hiring a consulting firm to conduct the survey.

According to the Winneshiek County Assessor’s Office, while 1,400 barns still exist in the county, every year increasing numbers are being torn down. The completed survey results will be downloaded onto the Winneshiek County Historic Preservation Commission’s website where it will be publicly available for all researchers.

The Winneshiek County Historic Preservation Commission

ited to three-minute time slots to allow as many people to participate as possible. Whether a seasoned writer or a first-time performer, all are welcome to express their creativity in a supportive and engaging atmosphere.

This special event, formerly hosted by local writer and comedian June Melby, promises a night where local voices come alive. For more information, contact Zach Row-Heyveld, Assistant Director at Decorah Public Library at zrow-heyveld@ decorahlibrary.org.

Former Donlon location regular meeting Monday, April 15, at 5:45 p.m.

Can and bottle redemption Before the meeting adjourned, Goedken mentioned someone had reached out to him regarding a possible can and bottle redemption business in the C-1 district. He questioned if it could possibly fall under a Permitted Principle Use umbrella and asked that members share their thoughts informally with him.

One member asked if it would be indoor only or an indoor/outdoor redemption center, and Goedken reported it seemed it would be all indoors.

When asked if P&Z was open to adding code specifically

of the benevolent founder, Aase Haugen, who was born in Eggedal, Norway, and immigrated to the United States in 1854. She donated the entire Haugen estate to build a home for the aged, as she said, “so that no one would die alone.”

Aase Haugen Homes has been serving seniors in the area for more than 109 years.

For more information, visit https://www.aasehaugen.com/.

Depot Outlet awards funds to the Winneshiek County Historic Preservation Commission

‘Word Salad’ April 16

Join ArtHaus and Decorah Public Library in celebrating the power of the written word and the magic of storytelling at Word Salad. This evening of writing will be held in the Pulpit Rock Events Room April 16 at 7 p.m.

The event is free and open to the public and is hosted by Holly Moore.

Participants will have the opportunity to take the stage and share their original works – be it poetry, short stories or excerpts from their writings. The theme for this month’s Word Salad is “Emerge.” Readers will be lim-

we look forward to how these contributions will improve care for our community’s aging population.”

At more than 60-years-old, the current building presented challenges including near-constant repairs with antiquated mechanical systems and inefficient workflow. The new facility will take care of those problems while also maximizing care and offering a cozy feel, with ample natural light, along with private

continued from front

relating to can and bottle redemption, Goedken said yes, and explained that because the zoning code has an exhaustive list of PPUs, he didn’t want to tell them no if there are reasons why the city should have a redemption center.

He continued, saying that they could maybe get it considered in code or include it under “or similar use” in the PPU with a possible draft ordinance regarding this item on the next P&Z meeting’s agenda. Goedken added that he would put into code that nothing could be stored outdoors.

The Planning & Zoning Commission’s next meeting is slated for May 13 at 5:30 p.m. at Decorah City Hall.

Decorah Public Opinion

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4 Decorah Public Opinion Thursday, April 11, 2024

Decorah Public Opinion Thursday, April 11, 2024 5

A salute to

g n i m r o f r e P Arts

Turkey Valley Large Group Ensemble Acting (front, l-r): Luella Reicks, Anna Reicks, Jenna Throndson, Mariah Throndson, Adysen Wurzer; (back) Ella Drilling, Brooklyn Kuennen, Kinsey Reicks, Kinek Reicks, Emersyn Hoffert, Karstyn Lukes, Grace Bouska; missing is Annie Raymond.

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In Large Group Speech, Brady Lensing (left) and Max Moonen reached state-level competition in the category of ensemble acting.

Many of South Winneshiek’s large group students tried their hand at individual speech this year as well. Pictured are those a group shot of those who participated at the district level. They include (front, l-r): Annie Ondrashek, Rachel Meyer, Josie Tieskoetter, Autumn Schmitt (back) Madalyn Desselle, Jordan Peterson, Matthew Horstman, Evan Ellingson and Amy Andera. Missing is Julia Carnesi.

South Winn Large Group Speech: The group improv team of (l-r): Henry Schmitt, Autumn Schmitt and Matthew Horstman also made it to state level competition, Turkey Valley Individual Speech group, (front, l-r): Anearning a division I rating. nie Raymond, Megan Blong, Kaitlyn Schroeder. (back) Kinek Reicks, Isabella Gruenberg and Russell Nieman.

Of those that earned straight-1 ratings for Individual Speech, South Winn’s Josie Tieskoetter was awarded Performing All-state Honors in the category of Public Address at the University of Northern Iowa on March 25.

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South Winn Large Group Speech (l-r): Josie Tieskoetter, Aubrey Willey, Annie Ondrashek, Rachel Meyer and Hannah Pahl. They performed a version of Charlotte Perkins Gilman’s “The Yellow Wallpaper” in Readers Theatre, earning three division-1 ratings at state competition this year.

Turkey Valley Large Group One Act, (l-r): Addison Steinlage, Isabella Gruenberg, Halle Weber, Mariah Throndson, Karstyn Lukes; missing: Megan Blong and Russell Nieman.

DHS Individual Speech All-State (front, l-r): Natalie Goodner: Expository Address, Hayley Stowe: Acting, Jensen Korsness: Reviewing, June Breitenbach-Dirks: Solo Musical Theatre; (middle) Anders Lovstuen: Radio News Announcing, Corina Timm: Spontaneous Speaking, Libby Phillips: Solo Musical Theatre, Mikayla Hiner: Acting, Caleb Johnson: Improvisational Acting; (back) Simon Kutz: Radio News Announcing, Alex McGohan: Public Address, Ezra Vorvick: After Dinner Speaking, Andy Kruger: After Dinner Speaking, Lucas Hanson: Expository Address.

DHS Readers Theater “The House in the Cerulean Sea” (front, l-r): Luke Arendt, Nora Lesmeister, Klara Kelly, Elliana Brodbeck; (middle) Mikayla Hiner, Abbie Valkosky, Annika Keefe, Greta Jones; (back) Ansel Kowitz, Davis Coppola, Henry Weis, Sydney Kipp, Jameson LaBelle and McKenzie Riley.

South Winn Large Group Speech (l-r): Madalyn Desselle, Jordan Peterson, Amy Andera (not pictured), Evan Ellingson and Ava Witt participated in group improvisation and Television News. Though their improv performance received a division 2 at districts, their TV news made it to state competition.

Well done!

DHS Solo Mime “Magnificent Malvolio’s Mishaps” by Nat Roberts (left). DHS Solo Mime “Midnight Madness” by Jensen Korsness (right).

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DHS 9th grade Television Newscasting “Iowa Roots: Indigenous Heritage” (front, l-r): Nina Sessions, Olivia Rissman, Kaelyn Kuhn, Thomas Davis, Sawyer Courtney, Clarence Nimrod; (back) Ava Hanson, Lulu Bellrichard, Thatcher Brown, Colin Thompson, Carter Riley and Kyan Oftedahl. Missing are Claire Storhoff and Oskar Swanson.

DHS Acting “The Day the Internet Died” (front, l-r): Klaara Short, Kathryn Kelly, (back) Karmyn Bakken, Liam Chamberlain, Davis Coppola and Lucas Hanson.

DHS Television Newscasting “Breaking Barriers: The Rise of Girls Wrestling” (l-r) Beau Newhouse, Kamryn Steines, Annaleissa Arnold, Karmyn Bakken, Jensen Korsness, Grant Zilka. Missing are Jack Sovern, Will Robinson, Naomi Simon, Ana Simon, Leah Holland, Kelby Kerndt and Lauren Luzum.

DHS One Act Play “She Kills Monsters” (front, l-r): Hayley Stowe, Kaylie Wemark, June Breitenbach-Dirks, Nora Lesmeister, (middle) Libby Phillips, Elliana Brodbeck, Kathryn Kelly, Annika Keefe; (back) Julia Severtson, McKenzie Riley, Gabriel Hiner, Ezra Vorvick and Andy Kruger. Missing is Cody Carolan.

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DHS Group Improv One, (l-r): Anders Lovstuen, Henry Weis, Beau Newhouse, Oliver Brummel and Joe Stammeyer from Group Two. Missing from Group Two are Tommy Hammel and Jack Sovern.

DHS Musical Theater “Tick, Tick…Boom” - Banner Winner (front, l-r): Gwen Thompson, Bethany Hanson, Libby Phillips, Hayley Stowe; (back) Lucas Hanson, Oliver Brummel, Connor Evelsizer and Ezra Vorvick.

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DHS Television Newscasting “Close Encounters: Strangers from Space” (front, l-r): Natalie Goodner, Paige Wrightsman, Gwen Thompson, Eily Hegdahl, Elizabeth Pritchard, Braunwyn Darrington; (back) Peter Essa, Nathan Swarbrick, Simon Kutz, Caden Branum and Brynn Storhoff. Missing are Naomi Pedlar, Sam Cline and Mara Branum.

DHS Musical Theater “Newsies” (front, l-r): Elsa Christman, June Breitenbach-Dirks, Abbie Valkosky, Mikayla Hiner; (back) Gabriel Hiner, Caleb Johnson, Jameson LaBelle and Andy Krueger.

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DHS Radio Broadcasting “KWAK” - Banner Winner (l-r): Jerald Thompson, Hannah Arendt, Lily Sandhorst, Camryn Holland, Addison Wicklund and Alex McGohan. Missing is Tommy Hammel.

DHS 9th grade Choral Reading “Walt’s Guide to a Happily Ever After” (front, l-r): Myla Leitz, Isis Timm, Jayden Lundtvedt, Jillian Volz, Emma Cline, Naomi Kutz; (back) Lawrence Christman, Carter Riley, Clarence Nimrod, Thatcher Brown, Lulu Bellrichard, Olivia Rissman and Ava Hanson.

DHS Choral Reading “The Eras of Taylor Swift” (front, l-r): Bethany Hanson, Kaylie Wemark, Hannah Arendt, Paige Wrightsman; (middle) Grace Blikre, Evon Leitz, Natalie Goodner, Julia Severtson; (back) Nathan Swarbrick, Elizabeth Pritchard, Caden Branum, Alex McGohan and Caleb Johnson. Missing is Lexy Walker.

(All submitted photos)

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DHS Group Mime “Night at the Art Museum” (l-r): Kathleen Delphey, Evynne Downing, Brynn Storhoff, Ariana Albert and Camryn Holland. Missing is Anopa Mtisi.

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Supervisors happening in a building that is owned by the taxpayers. Have the discussions in public. You may still end up at the same spot, but have open discussion about it.”

“We can do that, Shirley,” Kelsay replied. “We can have work sessions right here, at the annex, on multiple days of the week.”

“We knew that we wanted to keep Spectrum in the building, and they needed a wall to separate their space,” added County Auditor Steines. “John Halverson is in charge of our building maintenance, and his budget was paying for it. If you put in a new sink, or if you put in a new drinking fountain, do you want John Halverson to come meet with you every time?”

Vermace replied to Steines by suggesting that, because the Community Services building is in the City of Decorah, it is subject to the city’s building permit requirements. Vick and Kelsay disagreed, saying that county buildings fall under the county’s jurisdiction.

“I think we just need to be sure we’re making sure we’re giving the permits…” Vermace said.

“That would be John Halverson’s department,” Steines said, “but I don’t think we’ve ever gotten a permit.”

“We did not have a permit for the roof on the courthouse,” Kelsay added. “We didn’t have a permit for the renovation of the courthouse building.”

Vermace reiterated her suggestion about discussing future renovations with the rest of the supervisors, and Kelsay said he agreed.

“We have been in contact with Mr. Donohue (NEI3A) to find out their exact needs,” Langreck said. “Once we obtain their exact needs, we will bring them to the board and discuss them.”

Other business • Decorah resident Tom Hansen made a short presentation

continued from front

to the supervisors, inviting the public to a program entitled “Defy Tyrants” by Matthew J. Trewhella, author of “The Doctrine of the Lesser Magistrates: A Proper Resistance to Tyranny and a Repudiation of Unlimited Obedience to Civil Government”. Trewhella will be speaking from 6-8 p.m., Tuesday, April 16, at the Arlington Community Center in Arlington, which is in Fayette County. Hansen said Trewhella is holding a special session for city and county government officials earlier that day.

• Tom Madden of SEH Engineering gave an update to the supervisors on the Festina sewer project. Madden said they plan to break ground on the project in May and are scheduled to be finished by Sept. 30.

• A public hearing on the proposed sale of approximately seven acres of land in Freeport will be held at 10:30 a.m., May 6, in the Winneshiek County Courthouse annex.

• Following the April 1 meeting, County Engineer Michael Kueny was notified that the Middle Calmar Road project was not eligible for federal funding, because it is considered a “minor collector” and not a “major collector”. As such, federal funds that were previously going to go to the Middle Calmar Road project, which is proposed to take place in 2029, are now designated for a County Road W42 project, from Ossian to Iowa Highway 9, which is proposed to be done in 2028. Kueney discussed some aspects of his proposed five-year plan but didn’t want to get into more specifics publicly until after the plan is approved by the state. He said the five-year plan is more of a wish list than a guarantee.

The next meeting of the Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors will be held at 9:30 a.m., Monday, April 15, at the courthouse annex.

School survey building and tennis courts in the Heivly Island location (where John Cline Elementary is located) was identified as best for our kids and best for our community, considering city streets and infrastructure. Land was purchased in fall 2023 from the City of Decorah for $1.97 million, and a facility committee was formed earlier this year.

During Monday night’s monthly board meeting, members stressed the importance of the public completing the survey upon receipt.

The survey instructions state, “We now look to gather your feedback and input through a survey to help guide decision making about the proposed construction of a new elementary school. You are encouraged to take the survey, which is anonymous and requires about 5-10 minutes to complete. The survey (found online at www.

DecorahSurvey.org) will be available April 9-23.”

Teacher salaries In other business at Monday’s meeting, Supt. Cronin informed the board of the recent passage of Iowa House File 2612 into law, which establishes a new minimum salary for teachers. Last year, the DCSD board approved raising teacher minimum salaries in the district to $40,000.

Under the new law, effective July 1, 2024, the salaries for new teachers must be at least $47,500, and the salaries for teachers with at least 12 years of experience must be at least $60,000. Effective July 1, 2025, the salaries for new teachers must be at least $50,000, and the salaries for teachers with at least 12 years of experience must be $62,000.

The legislature will provide additional funding allocations through Teacher Salary Supplement funds to assist school districts in reaching these minimum salaries.

“While this is great news (fantastic for some) there will be some challenges in that this will create some compaction of salary schedule,” Cronin pointed out. “We will work with the

continued from front

Decorah Education Association (DEA) for a solution to what is best for our staff and students.”

Other business The significant investment in the proposed new elementary school keeps growing, as the board continues to consider the option of hiring a “construction manager at risk” (CMAR) to work in tandem with architects.

In the past, projects have been overseen by a general contractor. Following considerable discussion, board members tabled action on the proposal to allow for further investigation into the process.

Cronin also updated the board on the upcoming decision by the Upper Iowa Conference (UIC) member schools regarding Decorah’s formal request to join the conference. The conference meeting was scheduled for Wednesday, April 10.

The board learned the final day of school has been extended and is now tentatively scheduled for Friday, May 24, due to two recent snow days.

The board approved a proposal to streamline online school registration through PowerSchool website, allowing parents to select an option to opt in or out of school field trips for students. It is hoped the online parental permission will cut down on paperwork.

Parents will still be alerted prior to any scheduled field trip.

Also discussed Monday was a listing of proposed summer capitol projects in the district, including the new middle school roof, estimated at $2.1 million; two new buses, at a total cost of $300,000; the renewal of the Bowling Center rental fee at Kingpin Entertainment of $15,750; Luther College swim pool rental fee of approximately $4,000; and additional expenditures for copy machines, student computer leases, orchestra and band instruments, adaptive seating for the high school auditorium, and mini splits (also known as split air conditioning systems) for John Cline School interior rooms (if necessary) at a cost of approximately $163,000.

6 Decorah Public Opinion Thursday, April 11, 2024

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Parks and Recreation Director The City of Decorah is accepting applications for the position of Parks and Recreation Director. Minimum qualifications include having high school diploma or equivalent with post-secondary education preferred. Must have five years supervisory or management experience. Experience in parks or recreation operations preferred. Position is subject to post-offer physical examination including drug testing, background check and motor vehicle records check. Competitive benefit package offered.

Applications and complete job description may be obtained at the City Clerk’s Office, Decorah Municipal Center, 400 Claiborne Drive or online at www.decorahia.org.

For more information call 563-382-3651. Return city application and resume to: City of Decorah, Attn: Travis Goedken, City Manager, PO Box 138, Decorah, IA, 52101 or citymanager@decorah. iowa.gov. Applications will be received until position is filled, with first review of applications 4:00 PM, April 30, 2024.

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IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF LUKE JOSEPH HACKMAN, DECEASED. PROBATE NO. ESPR 016284 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF ADMINISTRATOR AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS To All Persons Interested in the Estate of Luke Joseph Hackman, deceased, who died on or about November 27, 2022: You are hereby notified that on the 21st day of March 2024, the undersigned was appointed administrator of the estate.

Notice is hereby given that all persons indebted to the estate are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned, and creditors having claims against the estate shall file them with the clerk of the above named district court, as provided by law, duly authenticated, for allowance, and unless so filed by the later to occur of four months from the second publication of this notice or one month from the date of the mailing of this notice (unless otherwise allowed or paid) a claim is thereafter forever barred.

Dated this 21st day of March, 2024.

Brandi Leigh Hackman Administrator of Estate 1686 Valderes Road Decorah, Iowa 52101 Samuel H. Braland Attorney for Administrator 115 E. First Street P.O. Box 370 Earlham, Iowa 50072 Date of second publication: April 11, 2024 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion April 4 & 11, 2024 On April 20, 2024 at 4:00 cdt, a sale of personal property of Bradley Scholbrock will be held at unit #55, Store-it-Storage, 2340 East Ridge Rd, Decorah, IA. The item will be sold to the highest bidder who must be present. Item includes but not limited to John Deere push mower, snowblower, TV, printer, men’s and children’s clothing, toys, tools, mattress, kitchenware, etc.

Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion April 4 & 11, 2024 Ordinance No. 1324 AN ORDINANCE CREATING CHAPTER 2.10 PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE OF THE CITY OF DECORAH WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Decorah finds that a public works model will best serve the residents of Decorah; and WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Decorah finds that a public works model will not only be a financial savings, but also increase efficiency in daily operations; and WHEREAS, the Street Superintendent, Water Superintendent, Wastewater Treatment Plant Superintendent, and City Forester shall report to the Public Works Director; and WHEREAS, the Public Works Director serve as a department head and be a direct report of the City Manager.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Decorah, Iowa, that Chapter 2.10 -Public Works Director, is hereby created with the following chapter and sections: Chapter 2.10-PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR 2.10.010 -Appointment.

The public works director shall be appointed by and work under the direction of the city manager.

2.06.020 -Duties.

A. Plans, organizes, and directs the functions of the public works department staff, including streets, stormwater systems, urban forestry, water systems, sanitary sewer systems, and wastewater treatment plant.

B. Works with the city engineer to evaluate city infrastructure and make recommendations regarding repairs/maintenance, reconstruction, and new construction.

C. Provides administrative support in a staff capacity for the city manager; plans, monitors and coordinates the development of projects, programs, and activities on a city-wide basis and performs related work as required.

D. The public works director shall have such other powers and perform such other duties as may be provided by the city manager, city council, the ordinances of the city, or the laws of the state.

BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Decorah, Iowa, that the Street Superintendent, Water Superintendent, Wastewater Treatment Plant Superintendent, and City Forester shall report to the Public Works Director.

Repealer. All Ordinances or parts of Ordinances in conflict with the provisions of this Ordinance are hereby repealed.

Severability Clause. If any section, provision, or part of this Ordinance shall be adjudged invalid or unconstitutional, such adjudication shall not affect the validity of the Ordinance as a whole, or any section, provision or part thereof not adjudged invalid or $1,000 SIGNING BONUS unconstitutional.

When Effective. This Ordinance shall be in effect upon its passage, approval and publication as provided by law.

Date of First Reading: March 18, 2024 Date of Second Reading: April 1, 2024 Roll Call Vote: Enjoy working outside and Miculinich, looking Councilmen Voting Aye: Schissel, Parker, Olson, Hadley, for aZittergruen, change? We provide on the Neal Councilmen Voting Nay: None job training!

Class A or B CDL PASSED AND ADOPTED this 1st day of April, 2024. No CDL, no problem, we desirable.

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Lorraine Borowski, Mayor ATTEST: Decorah, IA • 563-382-2953 Keri Sand, City Clerk-Finance Officer www.olsonexplosives.com Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion April 11, 2024 info@olsonexp.com

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TRUST NOTICE IN THE MATTER OF THE TRUST: THE BUCHHEIT FAMILY REVOCABLE TRUST .To all persons regarding Elmer Buchheit, deceased, who died on or about March 19th, 2024. You are hereby notified that the trustee listed below is the trustee of The Buchheit Family Revocable Trust dated on May 1st, 2018. Any action to contest the validity of the trust must be brought in the District Court of Winneshiek County, Iowa, within the later to occur of four (4) months from the date of second publication of this notice or thirty (30) days from the date of mailing this notice to the spouse of the decedent settlor, and to all heirs of the decedent settlor whose identities are reasonably ascertainable. Any suit not filed within this period shall be forever barred.

Notice is further given that any person or entity possessing a claim against the trust must mail proof of the claim to the trustee at the address listed below via certified mail, return receipt requested, by the later to occur of four (4) months from the second publication of this notice or thirty (30) days from the date of mailing this notice if required or the claim shall be forever barred unless paid or otherwise satisfied.

Dated on March 27th, 2024.

Jeanette Buchheit 2149 County Road B32 Ossian, IA 52161 Joseph P. Braun #AT0001120 ELWOOD, O’DONOHOE, BRAUN & WHITE, LLP 217 North Elm Street PO Box 377 Cresco, Iowa 52136 Attorney for Trustee Date of second publication: April 11, 2024 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion April 4 & 11, 2024

Miculinich, Zittergruen, Olson, Parker, Hadley, Neal. Nays: None. Motion carried.

City Manager, Travis Goedken, discussed a letter received from Winneshiek County Raceway. This communication was to inform the council of the schedule that the raceway plans for the 2024 racing season. This will be seven fewer events than the 2023 season.

Goedken reminded the council that the City of Decorah does not have any authority over the raceway since Winneshiek County has ownership.

Mayor Borowski gave the council notice that she is considering Tim Felton for appointment to the Decorah Civil Service Commission. This consideration needs to be announced 30 days prior to appointment.

Mayor Borowski announced that the Decorah Human Rights Commission has two openings, Board of Adjustment has one opening, and the Decorah Sustainability Commission has one opening. She encouraged applications.

Park and Recreation Department Head, Andy Nimrod, announced that after 33 years he will be retiring. Nimrod’s last day with the City of Decorah will be April 30th.

Meeting adjourned at 6:03 PM Keri Sand City Clerk-Finance Officer Monday, April 1, 2024 Payroll, Payroll For 3/29/24..........178,159.89 Delta Dental, April 2024 Dental.......1,236.00 Ups, Postage........................................... 13.72 Kruse, Andy, Reimbursement Fuel Training ............30.00 Nelson, Kevin, Reimbursement For Ltap Training.......75.00 Petty Cash, Refund For Shelter #8......... 36.00 Connell Flying Service, March 2024 Services ...................... 3,683.31 Milligan, Cole, Road Scholar Reimbursement For Chris Ness........... 75.00 Row-Heyveld, Zach, Reimbursement Room For Sophie Nall..................................409.48 Sophia Nall, Reimbursement Conference............... 332.37 Ups, Postage........................................... 12.39 Alliant Energy, Elec Bills.................. 7,345.96 Anderson Wilmarth Van Der Maatten, Legal Fees....................................... 4,008.00 Arthaus, Program Expenses................... 25.00 Axon Enterprises Inc., Basic Instructor School......................495.00 Baker & Taylor, Books.......................... 17.06 Bodensteiner Implement, Parts ........ 1,097.40 Brunton Architects & Engineers, City Hall Study............................. 11,000.00 Capital One, Walmart.............................33.21 Cardboard Robot, Supplies.................... 16.15 Caroline Allen, Program........................75.00 Casper Plbg & Htg, Boilers/Services.............................. 3,505.49 Cdw Government, Equipment..........1,106.68 Center Point Large Print, Books.......... 119.25 Cima, Volunteer Ins.............................. 301.96 Croell, Sidewalk / Concrete..............1,080.00 Dalco, Supplies.................................... 159.78 Decorah Area Chamber Of Commerce, Parklet Ssmid Contrabution.......... 20,000.00 Decorah Tire, Tire Repair...................... 56.48 Dell Marketing, Eq............................... 580.30 Dle Certifications, Dle Certification.... 430.00 Driftless Multimedia, Media Publication..............................404.84 Erdman Engineering, W Heivly Street Design..................9,880.50 Fbinaa - Iowa Chapter, Training Reg Spring........................... 150.00 Feld Fire, 4:1 System Amd Prusik Cord........................................ 680.00 Fire Service Training Bureau, Ff1 Testing Bundy, Iverson, Schisssel..................150.00 Fixxit Llc, Labor/Parts.........................388.06 Fortres Grand Corp, Software License................................151.30 Galls Llc, Uniform.................................34.13 Hacker Nelson, Fye 2023 Audit ..... 42,325.00 Hawkins, Tank Rental............................ 50.00 Hovden Oil, Oil.................................1,029.60 Impact Coffee, Program Expense.......... 42.50 Iowa Attorney Generals Office, Ia Attorney General Charging Manual.................. 220.00 Iowa Dept Of Natural Resources, “Npdes Stormwater Permit”........................... 175.00 Iowa Dept Of Public Safety, Dept Public Safety-Oct-Dec 2021......................... 967.50 Iowa Law Enforcement Academy, Mmpi Officer Eval............................. 300.00 J Robert Hopson, 2022/2023 Chapter 509A................... 600.00 Kingpin Entertainment Center, Middle School Bowling..................... 658.00 Lydon Electric Motors, Supplies.......... 291.08 Malcom Enterprises Inc, Garbage........ 393.50 Mississippi Welders Co. Inc., Shop Supplies.................................... 207.77 Mvtl Laboratories, Soil Samples............ 33.00 Napa Auto Parts, Shop Supplies............21.22 Natalie Naber, Refund..........................170.00 Perry Novak Electric, Street Light Repair............................. 291.00 Postmaster, Bulk Water Bill Postage... 398.69 Racom Corp., Parts/Labor.................... 121.70 Randy’s Auto Parts Llc, Supplies........143.90 Rock Creek Crates, Crates...................988.19 Route 3 Press, Book................................. 9.00 Secretary Of State, Notary - Hill............30.00 Sherwin Williams, Park Rec Painter/Paint.................... 3,285.83 Spahn & Rose Lumber, Supplies ..... 1,798.01 Stanard & Associates, Entry Level Officer..............................90.50 Steve’s Car Care, Car Wash...................52.50 Storey Kenworthy, Supplies................... 85.97 The Landing Market, Program Supplies.................................24.00 Transunoin Rick & Alternative Data, Transunion Tlo................................... 223.40 Truck Equipment, Bucket Truck - Boom Drifting Diagnosis.............................. 130.00 Windridge Implements, 100C Tractor Service Items And Battery................. 529.36 Windstream, Phone Bill......................... 38.15 Winn Co. San. Landfill, Building Debris ..................................... 5.18 Ziegler Inc, 938G - Washer Fluid Passthrough And Knob........................ 41.88 Revenue To Date March 29, 2024..................

General Fund.............................. 6,453,124.07 Local Option Sales Tax..............1,046,772.52 Road Use Fund.............................. 784,913.06 Employee Benefits..................... 1,211,250.80 Hotel/Motel...................................275,000.00 Ssmid..............................................14,925.61 Park Special Gifts.............................9,312.12 Library Special Gifts..................... 131,491.66 Street Equip Fund...........................13,935.87 Debt Service Fund.........................845,440.23 Special Projects.............................149,496.85 Water Utility Fund.....................1,291,716.25 Sewer Utility Fund.....................1,007,326.20 Enterprise Project Interest............... 12,235.31 Metronet.......................................... 69,667.00 Forest Utility................................... 89,942.15 Storm Sewer Utility......................134,476.90 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion April 11, 2024

April 1, 2024 The regular meeting was called to order by Mayor Borowski at 5:45 PM. The meeting was held at the Decorah Council Chambers and electronically.

The meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance.

Members present: Randy Schissel, Emily Neal (Zoom), Kirsten Olson, Christopher Miculinich, Steven Zittergruen, Ross Hadley, and Brent Parker Consent agenda was presented. a. Minutes of the March 18, 2024, and March 25, 2024, Meetings b. Claims c. Resolution 3440 Setting Public Hearing on Proposed Fiscal Year 2025 Budget-April 15th d. Amendment to Special Class C Retail Alcohol License-Vesterheim Museum e. Renewal of Class C Retail Alcohol License-B.P .0. Elks #443 f. Appointment of Hailey Abbey to Sustainability Commission Olson made a motion to approve the consent agenda as presented, Miculinich seconded the motion. Roll call vote. Ayes: Olson, Miculinich, Zittergruen, Parker, Hadley, Neal, Schissel. Nays: None. Motion carried.

Schissel made a motion to approve the second reading of an ordinance to amend Chapter 2.08 City Engineer and creating Chapter 12.06 Street Superintendent of the Decorah Municipal Code. Olson seconded the motion. Roll call vote. Ayes: Schissel, Olson, Zittergruen, Parker, Hadley, Miculinich, Neal. Nays: None. Motion carried. Schissel made a motion to waive the third reading and adopt Ordinance 1323 regarding Chapter 2.08 and 12.06; Hadley seconded the motion. Roll call vote. Schissel, Hadley, Miculinich, Neal, Zittergruen, Parker, Olson. Motion carried.

Miculinich made a motion to approve the second reading of an ordinance to create Chapter 2.10 Public Works Director of the Decorah Municipal Code, Schissel seconded the motion. Roll call vote. Ayes: Miculinich, Schissel, Parker, Olson, Hadley, Neal, Zittergruen. Nays: None. Motion carried. Schissel made a motion to waive the third reading and adopt Ordinance 1324 creating Chapter 2.10 Public Works Director, Miculinich seconded the motion. Roll call vote. Ayes: Schissel,

IN THE MATTER OF THE LAVERNE HAGEMAN TRUST NOTICE OF TRUST To all persons regarding LAVERNE HAGEMAN, deceased, who died on or about March 11, 2024: YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that Alice Hageman is the Trustee of the LaVerne Hageman Trust dated August 28, 2012, and Amended September 26, 2012. ....Any action to contest the validity of the Trust must be brought in the District Court of Winneshiek County, Decorah, Iowa, within the later to occur within four (4) months from the date of second publication of this notice, or within thirty (30) days from the date of mailing this notice to all heirs of the decedent settlor and the spouse of the decedent settlor whose identities are reasonably ascertainable.

Any suit not filed within this period shall be forever barred.

Notice is further given that any person or entity possessing a claim against the trust must mail proof of the claim to the trustee at the address listed below via certified mail, return receipt requested, by the later to occur of four (4) months from the second publication of this notice or thirty (30) days from the date of mailing this notice if required, or the claim shall be forever barred unless paid or otherwise satisfied.

Dated this 8th day of April, 2024.

LAVERNE HAGEMAN TRUST dated August 28, 2012, and Amended on September 26, 2012 Alice Hageman, Co-Trustee 2486 State Hwy 24, Fort Atkinson, IA 52144 ATTORNEY FOR TRUST: Jana M. Evelsizer Olson ANDERSON, WILMARTH, VAN DER MAATEN,FRETHEIM, EVELSIZER OLSON, NOBLE, NOBLE, LYNCH & ZAHASKY 212 Winnebago P.O. Box 450 Decorah, IA 52101-0450 (563) 382-2959 jana.olson@andersonlawdecorah.com Date of second publication: April 18, 2024 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion April 11 & 18, 2024

IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MARK C. BENSON, DECEASED PROBATE NO. ESPR 016286 NOTICE OF PROBATE OF WILL, APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTOR, AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS To All Persons Interested in the Estate of Mark C. Benson, Deceased, who died on or about January 9, 2024: You are hereby notified that on March 25, 2024, the Last Will and Testament of Mark C. Benson, deceased, bearing date of March 12, 2019, was admitted to probate in the above-named Court and that Marvel Benson was appointed executor of the estate. Any action to set aside the Will must be brought in the district court of said county within the later to occur of four months from the date of the second publication of this notice or one month from the date of mailing of this notice to all heirs of the decedent and devisees under the Will whose identities are reasonably ascertainable, or thereafter be forever barred.

Notice is further given that all persons indebted to the estate are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned, and creditors having claims against the estate shall file them with the Clerk of the above named district court, as provided by law, duly authenticated, for allowance, and unless so filed by the later to occur of four months from the second publication of this notice or one month from the date of mailing of this notice (unless otherwise allowed or paid) a claim is thereafter forever barred.

Dated March 25, 2024.

Marvel Benson, Executor of estate Address: 2411 18th Lane SE, Rochester, Minnesota 55904 Nathaniel W. Schwickerath, ICIS#: AT0007110 Attorney for executor 2069 170th Street New Hampton, Iowa 50659 Date of second publication: April 11, 2024 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion April 4 & 11, 2024 IN THE IOWA DISTRICT COURT FOR WINNESHIEK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF VIOLA MARIE BOHR, DECEASED PROBATE NO. ESPR 016285 NOTICE OF PROBATE OF WILL, APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTORS, AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS To All Persons Interested in the Estate of Viola Marie Bohr, Deceased, who died on or about February 26, 2024: You are hereby notified that on March 22, 2024, the Last Will and Testament of Viola Marie Bohr, deceased, bearing date of May 12, 2015, was admitted to probate in the above-named Court and that David Lechtenberg and Julie Kip have been appointed Executors of the estate. Any action to set aside the Will must be brought in the district court of said county within the later to occur of four months from the date of the second publication of this notice or one month from the date of mailing of this notice to all heirs of the decedent and devisees under the Will whose identities are reasonably ascertainable, or thereafter be forever barred.

Notice is further given that all persons indebted to the estate are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned, and creditors having claims against the estate shall file them with the Clerk of the above named district court, as provided by law, duly authenticated, for allowance, and unless so filed by the later to occur of four months from the second publication of this notice or one month from the date of mailing of this notice (unless otherwise allowed or paid) a claim is thereafter forever barred.

Dated March 27, 2024. /s/ David Lechtenberg David Lechtenberg, Executor of Estate 106 North Park Court West Union, IA 52175 /s/ Julie Kipp Julie Kipp, Executor of Estate 1262 227th Avenue Fort Atkinson, Iowa 52144 /s/ Jeremy L. Thompson Jeremy L. Thompson, ICIS#: AT0009569 Attorney for Executors Putnam, Thompson & Casper, P.L.L.C. 801 Commerce Drive, Suite 1 P.O. Box 70 Decorah, IA 52101 Date of second publication: April 11, 2024 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion April 4 & 11, 2024

RIDGEWAY CITY COUNCIL MINUTES April 2, 2024 The Ridgeway City Council met in regular session April 2, 2024, at the Ridgeway Community Center, at 6:20 p.m. with Mayor Schnur calling the meeting to order. Council persons present were: Linderbaum, Novotny, Engelhardt, Schnur, and Hauber. Absent: None.

Engelhardt made a Motion to approve the consent agenda, and the March 12, 2024, bills and claims, seconded by Hauber. All aye.

Nay: none. Motion carried.

A Motion was made by Linderbaum, seconded by Novotny to set a public hearing on the 2024-2025 proposed City budget for April, 23, 2024, at 5:45 p.m. at the Ridgeway Community Center. All aye. Nay: none. Motion carried.

A Motion was made by Schnur, seconded

by Hauber to approve and adopt Resolution #04-02-2024-1, a Resolution to Approve the City of Ridgeway to Apply for a Matching Funds Grant with Farmers Win Co-op for the Ridgeway Fire Department. Ridgeway Firemen Novotny and Engelhardt abstained from voting. A roll call vote was taken: Linderbaum-yes, Schnur-yes, and Hauber-yes.

Motion carried.

A Motion was made by Engelhardt, seconded by Novotny to approve entering into a Contract For Services between the City of Ridgeway and Upper Exploreland Regional Planning Commission for services with the Wastewater Treatment Facility Improvements Project – WTFAP. All aye. Nay: none. Motion carried.

A Motion was made by Linderbaum, seconded by Schnur to approve a building permit submitted by Scott Engelhardt to build a 24 x 48 addition to his storage unit on his property at 1525 Main Street, Ridgeway, Iowa. Engelhardt abstained from voting. All aye. Nay: none. Motion carried.

The maintenance man report was given.

The next City Council meeting will be April 23, 2024, at 5:45 p.m. at the Ridgeway Community Center.

Hauber made a Motion to adjourn, seconded by Engelhardt. All aye. Nay: none.

Motion carried. Meeting adjourned.

Sharla Berns City Clerk WARRANTS FOR CITY OF RIDGEWAY – April 2, 2024 Alliant Energy, Utilities................. $1,558.09 Black Hills Energy, Utility................$202.05 Cardmember Services, Shop-postage and supplies................. $42.90 Carquest, Shop parts.......................... $315.66 Clet Koshatka Farm Equipment, Skidloader part...................................$20.19 Cresco Fire Safety, Annual extinguisher inspection........$120.00 Dan Pitz, Insurance & phone reimbursement..................$550.00 Driftless Multimedia, Publishing ......$154.50 Iowa DHS, Support payment............$ 596.28 IPERS, Ipers...................................$1,243.84 Marv Schnur, Help office floor & trip.................... $125.00 Midwest Patch, Street repair$.............. 884.50 Pat Sands, Com. cen. cleaning ..........$180.00 Payroll ............................................$5,518.00 Payroll tax ...................................... $1,740.59 Scott Engelhardt, Brooming................. $80.00 Sharla Berns, Reimbursement............ $100.00 Utility Equipment, Manhole/parts..... $655.44 Upper Exploreland, Wastewater Improvement Project........................ $880.78 Expenditure Accounts Summary to date: General Fund................................... $3,840.19 Community Center ............................ $516.65 Cemetery ...........................................$100.00 Road Use........................................ $2,736.09 Water Fund .....................................$1,002.00 Sewer Fund .......................................$980.76 Revenue Accounts Summary to date: General Fund................................... $1,720.84 Community Center.............................$300.00 Road Use Tax Local Option Sales Tax Water Fund.........................................$898.18 Sewer Fund..................................... $1,422.71 Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion April 11, 2024

RIDGEWAY CITY COUNCIL MINUTES April 2, 2024 The Ridgeway City Council met in special session April 2, 2024, at the Ridgeway Community Center, at 5:45 p.m. with Mayor Schnur calling the meeting to order. Council persons present were: Linderbaum, Novotny, Engelhardt, Schnur, and Hauber. Absent: None.

Engelhardt made a Motion to approve the consent agenda, and the minutes of March 12, 2024, seconded by Schnur. All aye. Nay: none. Motion carried.

This being the date and time for a public hearing on the Budget Year 2024-2025 Proposed Property Tax Levy, the public hearing was called to order by Mayor Schnur. A discussion was held. There were no written or oral objectors. The Mayor declared the public hearing closed. No Resolution is needed for the property tax levy hearing, only to approve the budget after the budget adoption hearing.

The next City Council meeting will be April 2, 2024, at 6:20 p.m. at the Ridgeway Community Center.

Engelhardt made a Motion to adjourn, seconded by Schnur. All aye. Nay: none. Motion carried. Meeting adjourned.

Sharla Berns City Clerk Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion April 11, 2024

The Spillville City Council held a Special Meeting at the Spillville City Hall at 5:45 PM. on Tuesday, April 2, 2024. Mayor Wermers called the meeting to order with the following councilmen present Backes, Kelsay, Taylor, Schmitt, and Straube.

Public Hearing: The Purpose of soliciting Written or Oral Comments in the City’s Proposed Property Tax Levy for Fiscal Year 20242025 • Motion was made to open the public hearing at 5:45 p.m. by Kelsay, seconded by Schmitt. Roll call vote: Ayes, unanimous.

Nays, none. Motion carried.

• No oral or written comments were received from the public.

• Motion was made to close the public hearing at 5:48 p.m. by Kelsay, seconded by Straube. Roll call vote: Ayes, unanimous.

Nays, none. Motion carried.

Adjournment: Motion by Kelsay, seconded by Taylor to adjourn at 5:50 p.m. Roll call vote: Ayes, unanimous. Nays, none. Motion Carried. Attest: Nikki Wagner, City Clerk Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion April 11, 2024

Board Minutes April 1, 2024 The Board of Supervisors met at 9:30am April 1, 2024 with all members present. The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag was recited, and the meeting was called to order.

Michael Kueny, County Engineer, met with the Board to discuss road department topics.

Moved by Faldet and seconded by Vick to approve the amended FY24 5-year Road Construction program. Motion carried unanimously.

Jon Lubke, GIS/IT Director, met with the Board to discuss options for filling the open IT position. With consensus of the Board, Lubke will reopen the System Administrator position as well as look for a short-term intern to help with workload.

The Board discussed the options for further consideration of the land sale in Freeport.

Moved by Vick and seconded by Kelsay to direct the County Attorney to prepare public hearing and bid paperwork to offer the land for sale with the same “flood plain fringe” restrictions, all parcels as one bid, and a minimum bid amount of $210,000. Motion carried with Kelsay, Vick, and Langreck voting aye; and Vermace and Faldet voting nay. Further action will be taken at a future meeting to set the public hearing and bid procedures.

Andy Van Det Maaten, County Attorney, met with the Board to discuss county issues.

Moved by Vick and seconded by Kelsay to approve the minutes of the last meeting.

Motion carried unanimously.

Moved by Faldet and seconded by Vick to adjourn to 9:30 am Monday, April 8, 2024.

Motion carried unanimously.

ATTEST Benjamin D Steines, County Auditor Daniel Langreck, Chair Board of Supervisors Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion April 11, 2024

Decorah Public Opinion Thursday, April 11, 2023 7

John Cline second graders publish their own book

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Law Enforcement Winneshiek Sheriff Caeden-Phillip Nyanjenga, 18, of Decorah, turned himself into the Winneshiek County Jail April 2, where he was arrested and booked on an arrest warrant for violation of pretrial supervision.

Following a driving complaint of a vehicle driving on Pole Line Road, a Cresco Police Officer located the vehicle and initiated a traffic stop on Highway 9, April 7 at 11:04 p.m. Subsequently, Lucas O’Neill, 41, of Waukon, was arrested and booked into the Winneshiek County Jail for operating while under the influence. The Cresco Police Department assisted the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office.

Bree Jore, 23, of Decorah, turned herself into the Winneshiek County Jail April 3 and was arrested on a Fayette County arrest warrant for violation of probation. Jore also

was charged with aggravated misdemeanor possession of controlled substance, second offense.

Alexander Logan, 38, of Austin, Minn., was arrested on Panoramic Road in Decorah at 9 p.m. April 4, and booked into the Winneshiek County Jail for aggravated misdemeanor operating a vehicle without owner’s consent.

Martin Herrera, 23, of Marshalltown, was cited for failure to stop in assured clear distance following an accident April 6 near Fort Atkinson. The Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office responded to a two-vehicle collision at the intersection of Highway 24 and County Road B32. A vehicle driven by 61-year-old Janet Cutsforth of Fort Atkinson was southbound on Highway 24, and was slowing down to execute a left turn onto County

Service Notices

JOYCE NELSON, 80, of Decorah, passed away Tuesday, April 2, 2024, at her home surrounded by her family.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, April 13, at Glenwood Lutheran Church with Rev. Matthew Rossler presiding. Burial will be in the Pontoppidan Cemetery. Visitation will be from 3-7 p.m., Friday, April 12, at Helms Funeral Home, 306 E. Water St., Decorah, and after 10 a.m. at the church on Saturday morning.

SHIRLEY ANN CASTERTON, 86, of Decorah, passed away Jan. 15, 2024. Funeral services will be held at Waterloo Ridge Lutheran Church in rural Dorchester at 11 a.m., April 20, with visitation one hour before the service.

Burial will be at the Highland Lutheran Cemetery in rural Decorah.

ROSE ANN NIENHAUS, 86, passed away Friday, April 5, 2024, at Wellington Place in Decorah. Mass of Christian burial was held Monday, April 8, at St. John’s Catholic Church in Fort Atkinson with Rev. Ivan Nienhaus presiding.

Burial was in the church cemetery.

CLAUDE HAYES, 84, of Dec-

orah and formerly of Corning, Iowa, passed away Sunday, April 7, 2024, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Rochester, Minn.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, April 13, at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Decorah with Rev. David Wrightsman presiding.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the time of service on Saturday at the church.

JEROME HENRY, 84, of Decorah, died Saturday, April 6, 2024, at Evans Memorial Home in Cresco. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m., Monday, April 15, at St. Bridget’s Catholic Church in Bluffton with Rev. Dan Knipper presiding. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the time of the service at the church on Monday morning.

ANITA LANSING, 98, of Decorah, passed away Tuesday, April 9, 2024, at WinnMed Hospital in Decorah. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 1:30 p.m., Friday, April 12, at St. Benedict Catholic Church, 307 West Main Street, Decorah, with Rev. Donald Hertges presiding. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be from 12:30 p.m. until the time of service at the church on Friday.

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Road B32. Cutsforth was yielding for a UTV in the northbound lane before attempting to safely make the left turn. Herrera’s vehicle was southbound on Highway 24 behind Cutsforth’s vehicle, and did not slow down, rear ending the other vehicle at a high rate of speed.

Both vehicles sustained extensive damage. Cutsforth had complaints of pain but was not transported to the hospital. Herrera had complaints of neck and shoulder pain and was transported to WinnMed Emergency Department. Damages totaled $10,000 to the 2019 Chevy Silverado driven by Herrera and $10,000 to Cutsforth’s 2023 Chevy Equinox SUV.

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Public Notices

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING -- PROPOSED BUDGET Fiscal Year July 1, 2024 - June 30, 2025 City of: RIDGEWAY The City Council will conduct a public hearing on the proposed Budget at: Ridgeway Community Center 690 County Street Ridgeway, IA 52165 Meeting Date: 4/23/2024 Meeting Time: 05:45 PM At the public hearing any resident or taxpayer may present objections to, or arguments in favor of , any part of the proposed budget. This notice represents a summary of the supporting detail of revenues and expenditures on file with the City Clerk and County Auditor.

City budgets are subject to protest. If protest petition requirements are met, the State Appeal Board will hold a local hearing. For more information, consult https://dom.iowa.gov/local-budget-appeals.

The Budget Estimate Summary of proposed receipts and expenditures is shown below. Copies of the the detailed proposed Budget may be obtained or viewed at the offices of the Mayor, City Clerk, and at the Library.

The estimated Total tax levy rate per $1000 valuation on regular property

10.86290

The estimated tax levy rate per $1000 valuation on Agricultural land is

3.00375

At the public hearing, any resident or taxpayer may present objections to, or arguments in favor of, any part of the proposed budget.

Phone Number (563) 379-0964

City Clerk/Finance Officer's NAME Sharla Berns

Revenues & Other Financing Sources Taxes Levied on Property Less: Uncollected Property Taxes-Levy Year Net Current Property Taxes Delinquent Property Taxes TIF Revenues Other City Taxes Licenses & Permits Use of Money and Property Intergovernmental Charges for Fees & Service Special Assessments Miscellaneous Other Financing Sources Transfers In Total Revenues and Other Sources Expenditures & Other Financing Uses Public Safety Public Works Health and Social Services Culture and Recreation Community and Economic Development General Government Debt Service Capital Projects Total Government Activities Expenditures Business Type / Enterprises Total ALL Expenditures Transfers Out Total ALL Expenditures/Transfers Out Excess Revenues & Other Sources Over (Under) Expenditures/Transfers Out Beginning Fund Balance July 1 Ending Fund Balance June 30

Budget FY 2025

Re-estimated FY 2024

Actual FY 2023

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15

148,972 0 148,972 0 0 44,136 1,050 22,000 654,258 219,400 0 0 625,521 0 1,715,337

135,706 0 135,706 0 0 43,065 1,012 34,996 45,618 219,712 0 0 0 0 480,109

135,707 0 135,707 0 0 43,065 1,012 21,888 67,074 211,362 0 0 0 0 480,108

16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

6,001 124,900 0 18,960 2,000 84,896 23,439 0 260,196 1,648,016 1,908,212 0 1,908,212 -192,875 314,666 121,791

6,001 105,629 0 39,221 2,400 86,672 22,941 0 262,864 134,761 397,625 0 397,625 82,484 232,182 314,666

6,000 127,310 0 46,751 2,917 91,492 0 0 274,470 134,429 408,899 0 408,899 71,209 160,973 232,182

Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion • April 11, 2024 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING -- PROPOSED BUDGET Fiscal Year July 1, 2024 - June 30, 2025 City of: SPILLVILLE The City Council will conduct a public hearing on the proposed Budget at: 438 South Main Street at the Spillville Council Chambers Meeting Date: 4/23/2024 Meeting Time: 06:00 PM At the public hearing any resident or taxpayer may present objections to, or arguments in favor of , any part of the proposed budget. This notice represents a summary of the supporting detail of revenues and expenditures on file with the City Clerk and County Auditor.

City budgets are subject to protest. If protest petition requirements are met, the State Appeal Board will hold a local hearing. For more information, consult https://dom.iowa.gov/local-budget-appeals.

The Budget Estimate Summary of proposed receipts and expenditures is shown below. Copies of the the detailed proposed Budget may be obtained or viewed at the offices of the Mayor, City Clerk, and at the Library.

The estimated Total tax levy rate per $1000 valuation on regular property

11.35973

The estimated tax levy rate per $1000 valuation on Agricultural land is

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Katie Casterton’s second grade class at John Cline Elementary School recently published their own animal book.

This was made possible by the McElroy Excellence in Education Enrichment Grant through Keystone AEA. Casterton applied for the grant and received enough money for each student to have their own hardcover book published by School Mate Publishing.

The students spent time researching an animal of their choice, creating a rough draft, revising with a peer and adult, and then turning their polished writing into a page of the book.

“The students enjoyed learning more about an animal of their choice and seeing their work turned into a real book,” Casterton said.

City Clerk/Finance Officer's NAME Joane Kulish

Revenues & Other Financing Sources Taxes Levied on Property Less: Uncollected Property Taxes-Levy Year Net Current Property Taxes Delinquent Property Taxes TIF Revenues Other City Taxes Licenses & Permits Use of Money and Property Intergovernmental Charges for Fees & Service Special Assessments Miscellaneous Other Financing Sources Transfers In Total Revenues and Other Sources Expenditures & Other Financing Uses Public Safety Public Works Health and Social Services Culture and Recreation Community and Economic Development General Government Debt Service Capital Projects Total Government Activities Expenditures Business Type / Enterprises Total ALL Expenditures Transfers Out Total ALL Expenditures/Transfers Out Excess Revenues & Other Sources Over (Under) Expenditures/Transfers Out Beginning Fund Balance July 1 Ending Fund Balance June 30

Budget FY 2025

Re-estimated FY 2024

Actual FY 2023

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15

134,849 0 134,849 0 0 61,013 800 27,950 588,085 212,000 0 70,600 1,194,000 48,726 2,338,023

118,508 0 118,508 0 0 58,791 500 18,000 60,500 213,500 0 75,600 82,712 9,974 638,085

109,894 0 109,894 0 0 67,242 688 6,937 107,525 176,267 0 97,406 98,120 45,958 710,037

16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

11,601 153,098 700 205,605 9,200 67,261 16,738 0 464,203 1,893,893 2,358,096 48,726 2,406,822 -68,799 473,369 404,570

14,001 116,000 200 203,348 10,000 70,040 16,973 0 430,562 228,774 659,336 9,974 669,310 -31,225 504,594 473,369

19,157 155,465 0 198,246 9,254 79,993 0 0 462,115 229,177 691,292 45,958 737,250 -27,213 531,807 504,594

Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion • April 11, 2024

Ordinance No. 1323 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 2.08 - CITY ENGINEER AND ADDING CHAPTER 12.06 STREET SUPERINTENDENT OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE OF THE CITY OF DECORAH WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Decorah finds that the Street Superintendent shall no longer be a duty nor direct report of the City Engineer; and WHEREAS, the City will be implementing a public works model where the Street Superintendent shall report to the Public Works Director; and WHEREAS, the change in the organizational structure will not only be a financial savings, but also increase efficiency in daily operations.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Decorah, Iowa, as follows: SECTION 1. That Chapter 2.08- City Engineer, of the Municipal Code of the City be amended by deleting Sections 2.08.030 Street commissioner and 2.08.040 Assistant street commissioner, in their entirety; and SECTION 2. That Chapter 12.06 - Street Superintendent, is hereby created with the following chapter and sections: Chapter 12.06- STREET SUPERINTENDENT 12.06.010 -Appointment.

The street superintendent shall be appointed by the city manager and work under the direction of the public works director.

12.06.020- Duties.

A. Superintend and supervise all improvements, maintenance and repairs upon the streets, alleys and public grounds within the city.

B. .. Report to the public works director all persons refusing to comply with, or violating, any ordinance in relation to the streets, alleys or public grounds.

C. Maintain and make all necessary repairs upon the streets, alleys and sidewalks and keep them in a reasonably safe condition for travelers and see that they are so kept.

The street superintendent shall immediately investigate all complaints of the existence of dangerous or impassable conditions of any sidewalks, street, alley, bridge, underpass, or overpass and is charged with the duty of correcting unsafe defects in them.

D. See that the streets and alleys are kept free and clean of all deposits of rubbish, grass, wood, brush or other refuse, and snow or ice. The street superintendent shall notify the parties causing, or responsible for, or owning the property adjoining such deposit to remove the same, and if not removed within twenty-four hours, shall file an information against such parties.

E. The street superintendent shall have such other powers and perform such other duties as may be provided by the city manager, city council, the ordinances of the city, or the laws of the state.

BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Decorah, Iowa, that any reference in Decorah City Code to Street Commissioner shall be the same as Street Superintendent.

Repealer. All Ordinances or parts of Ordinances in conflict with the provisions of this Ordinance are hereby repealed.

Severability Clause. If any section, provision, or part of this Ordinance shall be adjudged invalid or unconstitutional, such adjudication shall not affect the validity of the Ordinance as a whole, or any section, provision or part thereof not adjudged invalid or unconstitutional.

When Effective. This Ordinance shall be in effect upon its passage, approval and publication as provided by law.

Date of First Reading: March 18, 2024 Date of Second Reading: April 1, 2024 Roll Call Vote: Councilmen Voting Aye: Schissel, Olson, Hadley, Neal, Miculinich, Parker, Zittergruen Councilmen Voting Nay: None PASSED AND ADOPTED this 1st day of April, 2024.

CITY OF DECORAH Lorraine Borowski, Mayor ATTEST: Keri Sand, City Clerk-Finance Officer Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion April 11, 2024

April 1, 2024 The public hearing was called to order by Mayor Borowski at 5:00 PM. The meeting was held at the Decorah Council Chambers and electronically.

The meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance.

Members present: Randy Schissel, Emily Neal (Zoom), Kirsten Olson, Christopher Miculinich, Steven Zittergruen, Ross Hadley, and Brent Parker Mayor Borowski opened the public hearing regarding the proposed property tax levy for fiscal year 2025 at 5:03 PM. No public comment. Mayor Borowski closed the public hearing at 5:08 PM. Meeting adjourned at 5:09 PM Keri Sand City Clerk-Finance Officer Decorah (Iowa) Public Opinion April 11, 2024

Coming up in varsity sports April 11 – Dec b golf hosts tnmt. (Oneota), 1 p.m.; Dec g golf at New Hampton, 4 p.m.; SW g/b golf vs. Clayton Ridge/Waukon (Guttenberg), 4 p.m.; TV g/b golf at West Central (Fayette), 4 p.m.; SW b tr at MFL MarMac, 4:30 p.m.; TV g/b tr at New Hampton, 4:30 p.m.; Dec b tr at West Delaware, 4:30 p.m.; Dec/SW g tr at Decorah, 5 p.m.; Dec g soc at Mason City, 5 p.m.

April 12 – Dec b golf at Waukon with NFV, 4 p.m.; Dec b ten vs. Aplington-Parkersburg, 4:30 p.m.; Dec b soc vs. Charles City, 5 p.m.

April 13 – SW g/b golf at Dike tnmt., 10 a.m.

Sports Editor: Becky Walz

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PAGE 8

THURSDAY APRIL 11, 2024

DECORAH, SOUTH WINNESHIEK, TURKEY VALLEY

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Split squad wins Hudson Invite The Decorah girls track team split its squad Tuesday night, taking the “varsity” to Hudson and the “JV” to Waukon.

Complete results from both meets will be posted online at decorahnewspapers.com.

Fashioning a 36 Monday, Viking senior Ben Bockman was the medalist of the day.

(Driftless Multimedia photo

by Becky Walz)

Season opens for linksters

Nearly a week after the Decorah boys’ golf team was to have opened the season, the Vikes finally were on the course in competition Monday, battling both New Hampton and gusty winds at Silvercrest Golf Club.

In the end, the Vikings prevailed over both, winning 164 to 172 over the Chickasaws.

Senior Ben Bockman was the medalist of the meet, carding a 36. Working the way down the scorecard Jackson Pipho and Andrew Rhodes fashioned 42s for Decorah with Carter Dlhy concluding the team score with a 44. Others on the varsity scorecard were Caden Hubka with a 46 and Andrew Olson with a 48.

On the course in junior varsity action were Louis Bucksa (41), Bradan Darling (45), Hunter Quandahl (46), Kash Turner (48), Brody Hanson (51) and Kaden Alstad (52). New Hampton only had two JV golfers.

Decorah will host a nine-team tournament Thursday, April 11, at Oneota Golf and Country Club starting at 1 p.m., then travel to Waukon Friday, April 12, for a make-up meet against the Indians and North Fayette Valley at 4 p.m.

Tops at Hudson Decorah tied with Grundy Center with 92 points to share the Hudson title, with Union third.

Audrey Essa won the 100-meter dash in 12.73 seconds, the lone individual to win gold. Two relays took first including the 4x100 which produced a time of 50.85 seconds.

The shuttle hurdle relay took the title in 1:09.24.

Renae Wilson garnered a pair of runner-up finishes, tossing the discus 115 feet 6 inches and in the 100-meter hurdles in 16.03 seconds. Bringing home

bronze was McKenzie Riley in the 400-meter dash and the 4x800 relay.

Shining in Waukon At Waukon, Decorah put up 81.5 points to finish fourth with just one top finish. The 4x200 relay posted the winning time of 2:01.09.

Brylee Hanson was second in the high jump at 4 feet 6 inches and Annika Schmelzer won bronze in the discus with a throw of 97 feet 2 inches. Natalie Stevens crossed the finish line third in the 3000-meter run in 12:45.06, as the 4x100 rounded out the top three finishes in 55.93 seconds.

Coming up Thursday, April 11, Decorah will celebrate its senior members at the Decorah Relays as the meet gets underway at 5 p.m.

SW finally gets on the course

The South Winn girls and boys golf teams finally got to get out and play competitive golf Tuesday in Jordan Baumler an 18-hole tournament with North Fayette Valley and Clayton Ridge at Big Rock Country Club in Fayette. Both Warriors teams came out on top.

With a 340, the Warrior boys won the day as NFV finished second with 361 and Clayton Ridge 369.

Jordan Baumler picked up right where he left off last season and won medalist honors with Cole Moser of NFV with an 83. The third place medalist was another Warrior, Cale Kleppe, with an 84. Carson Streeter came through with an 85, with Carver Wenthold rounding out South Winn’s scorecard with an 88. Also on

the course for the Warriors were Jackson Goltz and Braiden Todd, both firing 90s.

The South Winn girls also came through for the win with a 467 over NFV’s 476 and Clayton Ridge’s 493.

Medalist for the girls was Warrior senior Katrina Hageman with a 104, with Clayton Ridge’s Kaci Kregel the runner-up with a 109. Others swinging the clubs for SW were Paige Jaster, 117; Annie Ondrashek, 122; Bailee Frana, 124; Avery Luzum, 129; and Brooke Steffans, 129.

Next up for South Winn is a 9-hole triangular against Clayton Ridge and Waukon at Guttenberg Golf and Country Club on Thursday, April 11, at 4 p.m., and a tournament Saturday, April 13, at Fox Ridge Golf Course in Dike Saturday, April 13, at 10 a.m. Monday, April 15, the Warriors will host MFL MarMac and Waukon at the South Winn Golf and Country Club at 4 p.m.

Warrior runners Eric Greve (left) and Brady Ohrt make the first exchange in the sprint medley relay at Decorah Monday night.

Decorah takes title at home relay event; SW sixth Decorah Relays team scores 1. Decorah 221; 2. Waukon 78; 3.

MFL MarMac 70; 4. West Delaware 70; 5. New Hampton 53; 6. South Winn 46; 7. Kee 25; 8. Central Elkader 19

After last week’s home meet was cancelled, the weather conditions turned around and it was a near perfect night for competition Monday as the Decorah boys’ track and field team hosted the Decorah Relays.

The Vikes overwhelmed the competition in the team race with 221 points. Waukon was a distant second with 78 points.

South Winn came in sixth with 46 points.

The home squad Decorah picked up 15 victories on the night. Peyton Webb tied for first in the high jump with Kaden Barton-Franzen of South Winn as both athletes cleared the bar at 5 feet 10 inches. In the long jump it was Gavin Groux winning the gold, having soared 20 feet 3 inches. Rounding out the field event wins was William Hahn in the shot put, with a throw of 47 feet 3 inches.

In the individual events, the Vikings crowned five different athletes. Kelley Gates reigned over the 100-meter and 200-meter dash fields for double gold. In the shorter race, he broke the tape in 10.91 seconds and later went 200-meters in 22.56 seconds. In 54.57 seconds, Karter Orris was

After having its initial outdoor meet cancelled, the South Winn girls’ track and field team slid into the Hudson Relays Tuesday, finishing with 22 points in 14th place. Decorah and Grundy Center claimed the top spot in the team standings

with both squads garnering 92 points.

Junior Abby Wagner was the lone winner for the Warriors as she topped the high jump field with the bar at 5 feet 4 inches.

Teammate Alyssa Holthaus provided fifth-place points in the event as well as she cleared 5 feet even.

Other top-10 performances included Cloey Zweibohmer in the 100-meter (8th, 13.75) and 200-meter dashes (7th, 28.85), as well as a pair of seventh place finishes in the 4x100 and 4x800 relays. Rounding out the list was the 4x200 relay.

Vikes continue to score wins

Ian Giddings (22) makes a pass as an Independence defender steps in the way Monday. (Photo courtesy of Heather Benzing) After two early losses, the Decorah boys’ soccer team (4-2) is rolling over teams as of late, including back-to-back wins to start the week over Independence and Postville.

Monday, the Vikes were on the road against the Mustangs (1-1), earning a 5-0 victory. Decorah was back at home Tuesday as the Vikes hosted Postville (3-2) and claimed the 2-1 win. No other stats from the matches were made available at press time.

The next chance to catch the Vikes in action is Friday, April 12, at home against Charles City at 5 p.m.

Complete results from the Hudson Relays will be posted online at decorahnewspapers. com.

The Warriors are back closer to home Thursday, April 11, as they compete in their second meet at Decorah at 5 p.m. South Winn returns to Hudson Monday, April 15, at 4:30 p.m.

RIGHT: Annie Hageman races down the track in a relay during a recent competition in Decorah. (Driftless Multimedia photo by Becky Walz)

Riveros leads Vikes linksters

Getting on a course for their second competition of the young season, the Decorah girls’ golf team faltered at Independence.

The Mustang varsity squad defeated the Vikes 208 to 221. Firing a 47, Decorah’s Maria Riveros was the medalist of the meet. Others on the course for the Vikings were Sophia Fahey, 55; Lulu Bellrichard, 58; Riann Oberbroeckling, 61; Olivia Brynsaas, 65; and Shelby Hageman, 71.

Decorah is at New Hampton Thursday, April 11 and will host Charles City Monday, April 15, at Oneota Golf and Country Club. Both nights the team will tee off at 4 p.m.

first to cross the finish line in the 400-meter dash. Decorah also had the top long-distance runners as Garrett See won the 1600-meter race in 4:53.03 and Grant Zilka won the 3200-meter run in 10:27.51. Circling the track in the 400-meter hurdles for the win was Dakota Johnson. The senior speedster posted a winning time of 56.21 seconds.

The Vikings also won six relay events. Teaming up for the gold in the shuttle hurdle relay were Joshua Adam, Tommy Sextion, Groux and Johnson. The quartet had the best time of 1:02.24. Both the 4x100 and 4x100 weightman races went to Decorah. In the weightman race it was Cash Riehle, Fisher Tweten, Luke Franzen and Hahn putting together a run of 50.55 seconds. In 44.47 seconds, the quartet of Adam, Webb, Groux and Kaiden Quandahl took the “normal” 4x100 relay win. Webb, Trevor Kuennen, Montana Jump-Gerleman and Cade Averhoff combined for a time of 1:36.22 in the 4x200 relay. In 1:37.65, the sprint medley relay of Johnson, Gates, Brayden Hartl and Kuennen took the gold.

Rounding out the winning performances was the distant medley relay. Kyle Pattison, Grant Remington, Landon Quandahl and Oliver Bollinger teamed up to finish in 3:58.38.

Warrior highlights South Winn worked hard to

put points up as well with Kaden Barton-Franzen splitting the top spot in the high jump with Decorah’s Peyton Web. Both jumpers cleared the 5’10” bar and had a jump-off that ended in a tie. Fellow Warrior Irving Flores earned bronze in the same event.

While the Warriors had no runner-up finishes, they did have a trio of bronze. Lukas Weiss collected third-place points for the Warriors in the 110-meter hurdles; completing the race in 16.96 seconds. The junior also finished fourth in the long jump with a leap of 18 feet 2.5 inches.

In the shuttle hurdle relay Weiss teamed up with Parker Timp, Barton-Franzen and Brady Ohrt to garner third in 1:08.65. The 4x100 posted a time of 47.30 seconds. This time it was Ohrt, Timp, Weiss and Chandler Riehle joining forces.

Complete results from the Decorah Relays will be posted online at decorahnewspapers. com.

On the track again Decorah is at West Delaware Thursday, April 11, at 4:30 p.m.

The Vikes host the final home meet of the season Monday, April 15, at 4 p.m.

South Winn will be at MFL MarMac Thursday, April 11 at 4:30 p.m., and will take part in the Decorah Invite Monday, April 15.

New line-up provides depth

South Winn’s Wagner wins HJ at Hudson Hudson team scores 1. Decorah 92; 1. Grundy Center 92; 3. Union 70; 4. West Delaware 69; 5. AGWSR 60; 6. Jesup 54; 7.

Dike-New Hartford 49; 8. Denver 44; 9. Wapsie Valley 41; 10. Aplington-Parkersburg 37; 11. Hudson 28; 11. Waverly-Shell Rock 28; 13. Cascade 26; 14. South Winn 22; 15. Independence 16; 16. Gladbrook-Reinbeck 13

Luke Franzen sends the discus sailing during Monday’s meet in Decorah.

(Driftless Multimedia photos by Becky Walz)

Lady Vikes fall to Mustangs

Facing yet another top-10 team, the Decorah girls’ soccer team (0-3) suffered another defeat by the feet of Class 2A No. 6 Independence (3-1) Monday on the road.

The Vikings held firm in the first half to keep the score even at 0-0. However, the second half was a different story as the Mustangs wore down Decorah’s defense with constant pressure, putting four goals on the board.

“We actually played better in the second half, but it was too little, too late to make a difference. We need to work on playing without panicking on the ball,” said Coach Loren Hendrickson.

Decorah will be back in action Thursday at Mason City at 5 p.m. The Vikings will return to their home pitch against Dubuque Senior Monday, April 15, at 5 p.m.

On Tuesday, April 9, the Decorah girls’ tennis team went 8-1 in their meet against the Charles City Comets.

The lineup for this match was arranged to allow twelve different girls to play a varsity spot; this meant many girls played their first varsity match and gained valuable experience playing with the extra pressure of earning the team a meet point.

In singles, sophomore Olivia Huinker stepped into the No. 1 spot successfully. Defeating Rylee DeBoest, 8-3, Huinker showed solid groundstrokes and ball control. Camryn Holland moved into the No. 2 position, targeting her Sophia Alinea’s weaknesses and emerging with an 8-4 victory. At No. 3 singles, stepping into the singles lineup for the first time this year, Klaara Short ultimately fell to Hannah Hoffman, 4-8.

Varsity newcomers in singles, freshman Myla Leitz (No. 4 singles) and sophomores Mara Branum (No. 5 singles) and McKinley Massman (No. 6 singles) each scored a victory for the Vikings. Solid topspin groundstrokes had M. Leitz in full control and led her to a fast 8-1 victory over Jada Litterer.

Branum worked hard to keep her groundstrokes deep and Marissa Avelar on the move; her efforts resulted in an 8-2 win. Last on the court, Massman got off to a quick lead. While Anya Ruziska fought back to 5-6, demonstrating her mental strength and determination, Massman gave up only one point during the last two games of play and ultimately won, 8-5.

In doubles, Evon Leitz and Kaitlyn Bjork partnered for

Jaidyn Duvel serves up the ball in doubles competition at Charles City Tuesday. (Photo courtesy of Amy Averhoff) the first time at No. 1 doubles and earned themselves an 8-4 win. Moving into the No. 2 position, Jaidyn Duvel’s and Leah Holland’s ability to find the openings when hitting groundstrokes and volleys led them to an 8-5 victory. Finally, varsity newcomers, Addie Maki and Dylin Thompson secured a quick win (8-1) at No. 3 doubles.

The Vikes will be on the road again for their next meet Monday, April 15, as they travel to Independence for a 4:15 p.m. start.

The TV track teams were in action Tuesday at NashuaPlainfield; however, results were not available at press time and will be published online at decorahnewspapers. com when they become available.