April 28, 2021
We've had our share of April showers lately, which means May flowers are on the way! Take a stroll or break out the bike for a cruise down the Goodhue Pioneer State Trail to enjoy local spring greenery in bloom!
Photo of a paved trail leading through a wooded area
Sharing the History of He Mni Can - Barn Bluff
Red Wing is grateful and humbled to be a partner with Prairie Island Indian Community on this stunning project at the base of He Mni Can-Barn Bluff. The new entrance is rich in history and stories and celebrates two communities coming together. The panels reflect connections both communities feel to the bluff. Push the buttons on the large "storyteller" panels and you will hear words spoken in Dakota by Arthur Lockwood, Prairie Island Dakota Language Program Director. This beautiful landmark is here for everyone to enjoy, so visit soon. Final touches and landscaping will be complete in mid-June. If you have feedback or questions, send us an email.
Youth Commission Chair Headed to Washington
Alainn Hanson
Very few high schoolers can say they’ve met the president, but Red Wing’s Alainn Hanson is one of them. She was one of only two students chosen to represent Minnesota at the United States Senate Youth Program this year. Alainn’s work founding Red Wing’s Youth Commission and serving as a student advisor on the Human Rights Commission and School Board helped earn her spot at the conference, and a $10 thousand dollar scholarship, as well. That scholarship will come in handy when she heads to American University in Washington, D.C. this fall to study Political Science. Alainn spoke at the last City Council meeting about her experience at the conference and her future plans. She’s definitely made her hometown proud!
Citywide Homelessness Plan to Begin
Red Wing's nonprofits and volunteers have worked incredibly hard over the years to decrease homelessness and the risk of homelessness locally. Now is the time to create a citywide plan to address the issue long-term. Council just approved hiring Alison Niemi of North Star Policy Consulting to bring her vast experience and knowledge to Red Wing through an in-depth study and community planning process so Red Wing has a concrete plan by the end of the year. Read the staff report and consultant's qualifications. If you would like to be part of the process, please contact us.
Rental License Program: May 20 Public Meeting
Mark this date on your calendar: Thursday, May 20 at 6:30 p.m. If you're interested in learning more about the proposed Rental License Program and want to give your feedback, ideas, and ask questions, this meeting is for you. Tenants, landlords, neighbors, and the entire community is invited. Here's a link to the virtual meeting, and remember, you can always join by telephone, too. To read background and details on the proposed program and see the draft inspection checklist, visit our website page. Questions? Contact Dan Rogness. See you on the 20th!
New Use for an Old Building
Bremseth Building
Historically referred to as the Mrs. N. S. Messick House, and more recently called the Bremseth Building, this two-story Greek Revival at 621 West 4th Street may soon have yet another new name. During Monday’s Council meeting, members voted to rezone this well-known property near Central Park so it could potentially hold up to four residential housing units. You'll see from the report, this development is in its early stages so watch for updates in a future City Beat to see what ultimately becomes of this historic beauty.
Adding Clarity to the Recall Issue
For those wondering about the details and legal questions surrounding the recall campaign in Red Wing, City attorney Amy Mace provided a summary at the most recent Council meeting. Here she explains the grounds the resident committees brought forward, what's required for a recall to go ahead, and what will happen next. You can also read the recent City Q&A article summarizing the issue and the process.
Utility Payments Made Easier
Handling City utility payments just became more convenient. The City's online payment portal now accepts PayPal and Venmo (mobile only) payment options. Want to see how it's done? We've got a video for that!

Also, if you or someone you know has been struggling with City utility bills due to COVID-19, the Utility Assistance Program still has funds ready to help with past-due bills.
City 101 - Pet Licensing in Red Wing
You register the family vehicles--how about the family pets? In Red Wing, both dogs and cats are required to be registered with the River Bluff Humane Society. Here's the good news: It's easy, affordable, and will help protect your cat or dog if they ever get lost! Learn about pet licenses and why they're important in the newest edition of City 101.
6 Projects, 5 Years, 1 Major Highway
Close up photo of a yellow Road Work Ahead sign shot from below
Over the next few years, Highway 61 will be getting significant attention thanks to the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT). During Monday's Council meeting, Project Manager Chad Hanson presented on several upcoming Highway 61 projects, including a new roundabout at the Highway 316 & Highway 61 juncture and a new bridge over Withers Harbor Drive. First up, though, is the mill and overlay of Highway 58 this year, complete with pedestrian crossing improvements and sidewalk repairs. City Beat will keep you in the loop on project updates and public meetings so you know what's happening and when!
All in a Career's Work - Gordy Boldt
Photo of Gordy Boldt laughing
After almost 25 years with the City, Gordy Boldt is heading into a well-earned retirement. From beginning with the City working on the sewer separation project in the '90s to retiring as a Waste Water Operator this May, Gordy has been working quietly behind the scenes of Red Wing's utilities. In retirement, Gordy says he will spend lots of time with his wife, kids, and grandkids and work on the family farm. "I'm 6'3" and I've got a honey-do list about that tall," he says. We wish him all the best!
We'll Save You a Seat (at home)
Port Authority Meeting
Meeting virtually via Webex.
Tuesday, May 4 at 5:30 p.m.

Heritage Preservation Commission Meeting
Meeting virtually via Webex
Wednesday, May 5 at 5:30 p.m.
Airport Board Meeting
Meeting Held Virtually
Wednesday, May 5 at 4 p.m.
Library Board Meeting
Meeting virtually via Webex.
Monday, May 10 at 4:30 p.m.
City Council Meeting
Meeting virtually via Webex
Monday, May 10 at 6 p.m.
Board of Appeal & Equalization Meeting
Meeting virtually via Webex
Tuesday, May 11 at 5:30 p.m.