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Have overdue or missing item fines kept you away from our public library? If so, we have great news! On Monday, Mayor Dowse proclaimed Red Wing's library is going "fine-free." That means that beginning January 1, 2021, outstanding fees for currently lost items are covered and the Library Board is waiving late fines--permanently. What does the Public Library think of these changes? "The core value of a library is to provide equitable access to information," says Library Director Jessica McGee. "We strongly believe that by eliminating fines we will be encouraging lifelong learning, exploration, and innovation for all of our community members."

This season is known for being merry and bright, and Xcel Energy wants to help local businesses stay that way. For small and medium businesses affected by COVID-19 or civil rights protests, Xcel Energy may be able to provide assistance.

Learn more and apply on Excel Energy's website.

The City Council voted 5-2 Monday night to approve constructing the proposed bike-pedestrian bridge and trail in 2021. The bridge, which will connect the Bay Point Park recreational area to the West End District is slated to be complete in late fall of next year. Catch the Council's discussion and read the full project report. For more information, check out the project's website page for plans, videos, and background.

5-Year Capital Improvement Plan for 2021-2025. Capital improvements are one-time purchases or upgrades like vehicles, equipment, and park improvements. City Council members approve the 5-year plan annually based on their knowledge of the community's needs, plans, and priorities, and you as a resident can give input into the plan throughout the year--especially during budget workshops. Things change each year and are revised as needed. If you have comments or questions, contact Administrative Business Director Marshall Hallock or your Council members and mayor here.

Budgeting--it may not seem like an exciting topic, but it's a crucial part of how our city operates. The 2021 Budget was approved by the Council during its Special Meeting on December 7. A lot of consideration went into the challenges of this year and what the coming year may bring, but there is good news as well: the 2021 Collectible Tax Levy is about $500,000 less than it was in 2020. That's a 5% decrease from last year. Want to learn more? The budget, tax levy, and more are available to view.

If part of your New Year's Resolution is to become more involved in the community, why wait? The Red Wing Sustainability Commission is looking for new members right now. Joining this commission means you'll play an integral part in planning for Red Wing's future sustainability and energy practices. And not just for 2021; we're talking DECADES in the future. Sounds pretty cool, right?

Get started on your application today and consider your New Year's Resolution complete.

The Red Wing Port Authority has $250,000 available through its CARES Relief 911 Grant Program. Local small businesses and non-profit organizations with 30 or fewer employees are eligible for up to $7,500 in grant assistance. Local home-based businesses are eligible for up to $4,000 in grant assistance. Applications are open through December 31, 2020. Visit the Port Authority's website to download the program summary, application, and grant expense spreadsheet.