Local-Regional News May 18

 

The City of Durand will spend just over $100,000 to make some needed repairs to the waste water treatment plant. The city will be using money that was deposited over 20yrs ago into the Local Government Savings Account program. Durand Mayor Patrick Milliren says the money was deposited for sewer projects.  The city hopes to have the repairs done by the fall.

The City of Mondovi would prefer the four corners intersection in downtown be re-constructed during the Hwy 10 reconstruction project. The WI Department of Transportation is considering reconstructing the intersection during the Hwy 37 project. Mondovi Mayor Brady Weiss says the city would prefer to keep the intersection open during the Hwy 37 project.  Hwy 37 south of the four corners is to be reconstructed in 2027 and the Hwy 10 project to start in 2030.

Two people were hospitalized after a Friday night head-on collision in Trempealeau County. The accident happened shortly before 10 p.m. on State Road 121 and involved a car and a minivan. Authorities say the car was traveling eastbound in a westbound lane when it hit the SUV. Both drivers were injured. The injuries suffered by the driver of the car are described as serious.

The United States Postal Service released the Bald Eagle: Hatchling to Adult Forever stamps during a ceremony at the National Eagle Center amphitheater on Thursday. Illustrated by wildlife artist David Sibley, the five unique designs depict the eagle from its time as a hatchling to adulthood.

A facility that offers services to those impacted by homelessness in Eau Claire is receiving funding through a newly-announced grant. The Day Resource Center began operations last December in the city's downtown area and offers showers, laundry machines and other services to those in need. The facility is receiving 600-thousand dollars through the Western Dairyland Economic Opportunity Council and the One Better Way Campaign.

In La Crosse County, an August 7th sentencing date has been set for Josie Dikeman. Dikeman was convicted Friday in the 2023 death of her boyfriend's six-year-old son A.J. Jurors convicted the defendant on charges including 1st-Degree Reckless Homicide, Chronic Neglect of a Child resulting in death and Physical Abuse of a Child.

A Western Wisconsin school official is still employed after pleading guilty to embezzling nearly 200-thousand dollars from her previous school district. Danielle Mittermeier pled guilty to stealing from the Alma Center-Humbird-Merrillan School District after she was charged in January. The Cadott Community School District placed her on administrative leave when they were made aware of the indictment, but still works for them as of today. If convicted, she faces up to ten-years in prison and a 250-thousand dollar fine.

ATV and UTV riders need to get certified before hitting the trails. Anyone 12 or older, born after January first, 1988, must complete a Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources approved safety course and carry proof while riding on public trails and some private lands. Many ATV/UTV crashes involve riders who never took a class. Safety courses, available online or in person focus on preventing accidents and building real-world skills. New rules also require seatbelts in UTVs and ban towing people on trails. More info can be found on the DNR's website.

A brown bat in Adams County has tested positive for rabies. Health officials are urging local citizens to make sure pets are vaccinated and to report suspicious animal behaviors to the health department. Rabies can be fatal if left untreated. The last rabies case in Adams County was reported in 2010.

The Madison V-A Hospital is receiving millions of dollars for infrastructure improvements and modernization projects. The Department of Veterans Affairs says the William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital will receive more than eight-and-a-half million dollars in funding. This comes as part of a nationwide V-A investment to modernize health care facilities. Planned upgrades include ambulatory care, sterile processing, air handling, security, and energy improvements. Hospital leaders say the funding will keep the facility safe, efficient, and equipped to provide high-quality care for veterans.

Wisconsin's largest school districts ask state lawmakers to reconsider the $1.8 billion budget surplus allocation plan they rejected Wednesday. The proposal brokered by Democratic Governor Tony Evers and Republican legislative leaders would have provided over $600 million for funding of schools and special education programs. WISN-TV in Milwaukee reports that a Thursday statement from the school districts of Milwaukee, Racine, Kenosha, Green Bay and Madison warned of immediate consequences due to the bill's failure. Milwaukee Public Schools Superintendent Brenda Cassellius told the station that special education costs that aren’t reimbursed by the state are taken from her district's general fund. MPS is currently in the midst of a $46 million budget deficit.

The McFarland Police Department is no longer moving forward with the purchase of automated license plate reader technology. ALPR, also known as flock cameras, allow the automated detection of license plates to help law enforcement identify stolen cars, as well as identify missing or endangered persons. Officials say the removal of the cameras will provide police with less data. The department is exploring alternative uses for the unspent funds put aside for the cameras.

A suspect is in custody following a deadly shooting in Rochester. The crime happened Thursday in the 900 block of 41st Street Northwest. Officers arrived at the scene and found 31-year-old Carlton Gardner with a gunshot wound near an apartment building. The man died later in the evening. Police say Derrel Williams was arrested and he faces homicide charges. Rochester authorities say the details of what led to the shooting are under investigation.

Wisconsin once again leads the nation when it comes to safely getting rid of unused prescription drugs. The Wisconsin Department of Justice says more than fifty-seven thousand pounds of unwanted prescriptions were collected during the spring Drug Take Back Day. That’s the tenth straight time Wisconsin has led the country. Attorney General Josh Kaul credits strong community participation and partnerships statewide. Since 2010, Wisconsin has collected nearly one-point-five million pounds of medications. There are more than five hundred permanent drop boxes available year-round across the state.

Local-Regional News May 15

 

Firefighters from Durand and 15 other departments responded to a large multiple structure fire south of Ella yesterday. The first call came in that a barn was on fire at the Allen Anderson Farm on Hwy N. Firefighters found a barn fully engulfed and spreading to other structures. One person was taken to the hospital. The cause of that fire is still under investigation.

The City of Durand approved four new lots on the CSM maps that were requested by Xcel Energy. The company is in the process of selling off the old railroad right of way through the city. Durand Mayor Patrick Milliren says the land is usually sold to an adjacent property owner.  Milliren says the company can do four lots at a time when adding them to the certified survey maps.

Mondovi City leaders recently met with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation to discuss the upcoming Hwy 37 reconstruction project. The city is wanting to limit how long the downtown area is closed off to traffic during the project. Mondovi Mayor Brady Weiss says the city is also concerned about access for emergency services.  The Hwy 37 project is expected to begin in spring of 2027.

A Menomonie teen charged in connection with a deadly Dunn County hit and run is again pleading guilty. The body of 54-year-old Ann Seidl was found lying in a ditch along County Highway Y on March 29th of last year. Authorities say that then-17-year-old Addison Bowell was the driver of the vehicle that hit Seidl and failed to stop. Bowell pleaded guilty earlier this year to charges including homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle. Thursday, she pleaded guilty in the case to charges that include hit and run involving death. She will be sentenced at a later date.

With fire danger at Critical levels across Northern and Western Wisconsin, the Department of Natural Resources asks the public to avoid outdoor burning through Saturday evening. DNR burning permits are suspended in 31 counties with additional suspensions possible with worsening conditions forecast heading into the weekend. Find updated information on DNR burning permit suspensions on the DNR's WisBurn tool. Fire risk is increased by ongoing dry vegetation, low humidity, warming temperatures and gusty winds forecast heading into the weekend, with Very High fire danger anticipated in areas where vegetation has not fully greened up. The DNR has responded to nearly 500 wildfires thus far in 2026, with 45% of those caused by debris burning. Fire danger is high in Pepin, Pierce, Buffalo and Dunn Counties and very high in Eau Claire and Chippewa Counties.

Jurors in La Crosse County are deliberating in the trial of Josie Dikeman. Dikeman is charged in the 2023 death of her boyfriend's six-year-old son A.J. In the trial, Dikeman took the stand in her own defense -- denying that she committed abuse that led to the boy's death. In closing arguments yesterday, her attorney called the matter a case of how innocent people get convicted of murder.

La Crosse city leaders this week are saying it isn't their fault that the community's fire and police departments have gone over budget for three consecutive years. The departments have gone over budget by nearly 250-thousand dollars each year. Council Member Erin Goggin says overtime is to blame but that its not a matter of waste but of necessity. She says when officers work OT, it's out of concerns for public safety.

No one is injured after a semi caught on fire on I-94 in Jackson County. Authorities were called Wednesday evening and found the semi tractor was fully engulfed and had started a wild fire. Crews arrived on the scene and extinguished the fire. The flames extended into a trailer that was carrying soup cans.

Governor Tony Evers is issuing new rules to protect public trust in state government. Evers signed an executive order that bans Wisconsin state employees from using or sharing nonpublic insider information they learn on the job to make money. It also prevents losses in prediction markets or other betting. The order covers helping themselves, a spouse or family members profit from bets tied to government actions, elections or other events. Evers said there's no known cases in Wisconsin, but cited growing national concerns and similar moves in other states and the U.S. Senate.

A conservative law firm is suing to block Wisconsin’s ban on conversion therapy. A state administrative rule prohibits “employing or promoting any intervention or method that has the purpose of attempting to change a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity.” The lawsuit was filed in federal court by the Wisconsin Institute for Law and Liberty on behalf of licensed counselors Terri Koschnick and Joy Buchman, who offer clients Christian counseling. WILL Deputy Counsel, Rebecca Furdek, said Wisconsin’s rule is materially indistinguishable from a Colorado statute held to be “viewpoint discrimination” by the U.S. Supreme Court, and that Wisconsin counselors have every right to provide Christ-centered talk therapy to clients who seek them out.

Police in Superior address recent officer-involved shootings. A Tuesday press conference addressed two officer-involved shootings in the past five weeks. According to Northern News Now, the most recent occurred Sunday night after Superior officers responded to a report of a person armed with a knife. A police officer fired, hitting the person with the knife and another adult. Both are expected to recover. Police also released body camera footage of a fatal officer-involved shooting from April, showing a struggle between officer Ibrahim Carson and 42-year-old David Menton, whose family members are demanding answers in his death. A DCI investigation into the Menton shooting is now in the hands of the Douglas County District Attorney.

Allegiant is buying Minnesota's Sun Country Airlines for one-point-five billion dollars. The deal was finalized on Wednesday, ending Sun Country's 43-year run as a local airline. The outcome was expected after shareholders from both airlines approved the deal last week. Executives say the two will continue to fly under separate banners for at least several months while waiting for final federal approval. The plan is to eventually drop the Sun Country name and operate as Allegiant.

A black bear cub is recovering after being rescued in Marathon County. The sheriff's department says officers and wildlife experts responded last week after the cub was spotted on Highway 29 west of Wausau. Deputies say the cub's mother was struck and killed by a vehicle. The cub is now at a Rhinelander area rehab facility and is reportedly doing well. You are reminded to leave young wildlife alone, even if you think the animal is in distress. Be sure to contact your local police or sheriff's office and they'll be able to assess the situation and send someone qualified to assist.

Wisconsin residents have a chance to help protect an endangered butterfly this summer. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is seeking volunteers to survey the Karner blue butterfly starting in July in select counties. The effort pairs the public with scientists to track sightings of the endangered species—data that helps monitor population trends and guide recovery efforts. The DNR says Wisconsin is home to the largest remaining population of Karner blues. The information collected supports a federal plan aimed at eventually removing the butterfly from the endangered species list. More info is available on the DNR's website.

Local-Regional News May 14

 

The Durand City Council approved issuing a $2.6 million general obligation promissory note for the Madison Street Project. Durand Mayor Patrick Milliren says the note is interim financing for the project.  There were 8 bidders for the note, and Waumandee State Bank was the winning bidder with an interest rate of 3.85%.

A big step forward for the creation of a dog park in Pepin County. On Monday, the Pepin County Land Conservation Committee approved to build a park within Holden Park in Arkansaw. The park is currently being cleared of invasive species and will be approximately 1.5 acres with hiking trails surrounding the area. The new Durand-Arkansaw Dog park is expected to open this fall.

Fountain City residents will loose parking on Hwy 35 next week. Due to construction on Hwy 35 the will be no parking on either side of Hwy 35 in Fountain City next Tuesday and Wednesday. All vehicles will need to be removed both days, and any vehicles left on Hwy 35 will be towed at the owners expense. Parking will be available at the Catholic Church lower parking lot.

Motorists in Lake City will need to find an alternate route next week. County Highway 2 north of Hwy 60 will be closed starting next Monday for culvert replacement work. The road will be closed for two weeks while the culverts are replaced and after the road re-opens the road will remain gravel until final patching is completed in the Fall.

A Minnesota man convicted in a fatal shooting in the Town of Buffalo is learning his fate. The incident happened on March 30th of 2024 in the parking lot of George's Lounge. Suspect was later arrested in Minnesota. Winn later pleaded guilty to charges including attempted homicide and now has been sentenced to 17 years in prison.

Prison for a man who was the subject of a manhunt in May of last year. Eau Claire County Authorities say that Leo Lacey pulled a firearm on another individual at the Smokeclaire Tobacco shop. The incident was reported to police and a search for the suspect began. Lacey was arrested a day later. Lacey pleaded no contest this week to charges including recklessly endangering safety and possession with intent to deliver cocaine. He was sentenced to five years in prison.

In Chippewa County, a Cadott Community School District staffer is pleading guilty to theft charges. The case against Danielle Mittermeyer dates back to her time facing legal troubles stemming from her time working for the Alma Center-Humbird-Merrillan School District. Danielle Mittermeyer had been indicted that she mishandled nearly 195-thousand dollars in district funds between March of 2021 and August of 2025. She will be sentenced at a later date.

Bison are coming back to the St. Croix Valley. A herd of 30 animals will be released onto the land around 12:30 p.m. on Saturday. A spokesperson for the Belwin Conservancy says bison are a keystone species that help support other plants and wildlife. The day includes a five-K run followed by a performance by Imnizaska Drum Group. In late September, they'll be sent to Northstar Bison, a ranch in Rice Lake, Wisconsin.

Overnight, the Wisconsin Senate voted 15-18 against the bipartisan bill to provide additional funding for schools and a tax rebate for Wisconsin Residents. In a statement, 23^rd State Senator Jeff Smith said it was simple, “we do nothing and have a potential $500 million surplus or pass the bill leaving the state with a $3 billion deficit in three years.” 29^th Assemblyman Trig Pronschinske said he was disappointed the billed failed and said the bill had many positives for a majority of Wisconsin residents.

The Wisconsin Department of Justice has reached a settlement with Neenah Foundry concerning alleged air pollution violations. DOJ on Monday announced the $200,000 settlement, resolving a civil environmental enforcement action. The maker of familiar manhole covers and gratings is alleged to have violated conditions of air pollution control permits and Wisconsin DNR and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulations for Neenah’s two foundry plants in Winnebago County. The complaint contains 18 total alleged violations related to alleged failures to maintain and operate air pollution control devices and monitors, alleged inadequate recordkeeping, and alleged failures to report deviations from permit requirements to DNR.

The Department of Natural Resources is looking for its next class of wardens. The deadline is Thursday to apply to the DNR for conservation warden positions statewide. The agency expects to hire up to 14 full-time wardens for its 2027 class. Those selected will begin training in either January or April of 2027, depending on experience. Conservation wardens serve as law enforcement officers, protecting wildlife, natural resources and outdoor recreation areas, while also educating the public. The DNR says no prior law enforcement experience is required, and paid training is provided.

The Badger State is not among the best places to be a nurse. That's according to a recent study by finance website WalletHub, which ranked all 50 states for some of society's most unsung heroes. The study compiled a list of the best places to be a nurse by looking at job openings, salaries, the quality of nursing homes, and more. Wisconsin was ranked 29th overall on the list, and was ranked in the middle of the road for opportunity and work environment. In case you were wondering, Maine topped the list.

A new headache for Ridglan Farms. The DNR is investigating whether the beagle breeding facility in Blue Mounds contaminated private wells with a manure filled trench the breeder built to try and deter animal rights activists from breaking into the facility last month. The DNR is working with Public Health Madison-Dane County. Initial sampling of wells on site didn't turn up coliform bacteria, but they recommend nearby landowners get their wells tested. Ridglan was ticketed for installing the trench without a proper permit.

Rural hospitals are fighting to survive as Minnesota lawmakers consider the future of the drug discount program. On Tuesday, hospital leaders were asking legislators to preserve the program that helps keep their facilities afloat. It allows them to purchase drugs at a discount and pocket the profits by billing insurers full price when the prescriptions are filled. State protections would end in July of 2027, allowing Minnesota hospitals to contract with multiple pharmacies to fill prescriptions under the program. The drug manufacturing industry has lobbied strongly against Minnesota's open-ended approach to distribution in pharmacies.

Wisconsin Public Service announces news-inspired names for peregrine falcon chicks. A record 22-thousand votes helped name this year’s peregrine falcon chicks in central Wisconsin. WPS even extended its “Name the Chicks” contest through Sunday because of the high interest. The winning names are “Matt Tweet”, “Kyle Prey-zorski”, “Featherson Lehmann”, and “Jade Eggshell.” The four chicks are being raised by peregrines Sheldon and an unbanded female at the Weston Power Plant in Rothschild. The eggs were laid in early April and started hatching this week.

Local-Regional News May 13

 

The Durand City Council is meeting tonight. Items on the agenda include discussion and possible action on the issuance of $2.6 million in general obligation promissory notes, create an ordinance to allow water, serwer and storm utilities to charge TID 3 for debt service payments and repairs for the sewer plant to not exceed $110,000. Tonights meeting begins at 6pm at Durand City Hall and will be live streamed on the WRDN Website.

The Mondovi City Council learned of the discontinuation of the CDBG Housing Revolving Loan Fund. Mondovi Mayor Brady Weiss believes the ending of the fund will not be a net loss for Mondovi Residents.  The program would allow eligible homeowners get a loan for home repairs and improvements and not have to pay the loan back until the home was sold.

Students from Durand-Arkansaw and two other school districts will be in Durand tomorrow at the Pepin County Heritage Center learning about the Civil War. Pepin County Heritage Center member Bob Zika says a civil war reenactment group from Red Wing will be on the courthouse lawn.  The public is invited to attend the event from 2-4pm.

The daughter of Wisconsin State Senator Jesse James is taking a plea deal. James' 31-year-old daughter -- Elizabeth Johnson -- had been accused of stealing more than 30-thousand dollars from the senator's campaign. She was charged earlier this year but has now pleaded no contest to charges of theft in a business setting and filing false campaign finance reports. She will now enter a 36-month diversion program. Senator James represents the state's 23rd Senate district -- a district that includes Barron, Clark, Price, Rusk, and Taylor Counties and portions of Chippewa, Dunn and Marathon Counties.

An Eau Claire North High School employee has resigned after accusations of creating inappropriate AI images of staff. NHS families were sent a message saying the administration received a report of the staff member generating the images on a personal computer. The district noted no student images were involved. The employee was placed on unpaid administrative leave and later resigned. No other details have been released.

Dave Solberg is returning to familiar territory in Eau Claire. City Council on Tuesday named him interim city manager following the resignation of Stephanie Hirsch. Solberg has previously served as Eau Claire's interim city manager and deputy city manager.

A pair of Regal Beloit employees are facing charges with accusations that they stole close to three-hundred-thousand dollars from the company. Patti Krahenbuhl and Ginger Heath are charged in the alleged embezzlement. Investigators say the duo used corporate credit cards to cover personal expenses over an eight-year-period between 2017 and 2025.

Possible human remains were found in northern Wisconsin last week. A release from the Rusk County Sheriff’s Office says bones were recovered after the department received a call from a forester who discovered them while marking trees last Friday. State and local officials were led through the woods to the spot where the bones were located. Investigators are working with the Rusk County Medical Examiner’s office and a forensic anthropologist to confirm their identity.

Two prominent voices from either side of the State Senate are not happy with a compromise deal on how to spend Wisconsin's budget surplus. Governor Tony Evers and Republican leaders announced the 1 point 8 billion dollar plan on Monday. Madison Democrat and candidate for governor Kelda Roys calls it a "backroom deal" and says the surplus is actually money that's been stolen from Wisconsinites by Republicans. Roys says she wants to see all of the funding go towards education. Whitewater Republican Steve Nass also calls the plan a backroom deal, and says spending any of the surplus risks a structural deficit going into the next fiscal year. He also says the plan should have come with school reforms. Lawmakers could vote on the deal as soon as Wednesday.

Fewer Wisconsinites are expected to make a long journey for the extended Memorial Day weekend. Triple-A projects 834-thousand residents will travel at least 50 miles or more for the holiday, which is a slight dip from the year before. Officials say increasing gas prices are having an influence on travel plans, as most of the projected traveling number will get to their destination via car. The Memorial Day holiday period runs from Thursday, May 21st to Monday, May 25th.

Health officials say it’s shaping up to be a bad spring for ticks, with the CDC tracking a rise in emergency room visits for bites. UW Health infectious disease specialist Dr. Greg DeMuri says mild winter conditions helped more animals survive—giving ticks more chances to feed and multiply. Experts urge prevention: wear long sleeves and pants, use insect repellents with DEET or picaridin, and check pets for ticks. Watch for symptoms like a bullseye rash, fever, fatigue, or joint swelling. Doctors say if symptoms appear—or you’re unsure how long a tick was attached—contact your healthcare provider.

The Oconto Falls Public School District is filing a motion to dismiss a lawsuit saying they let multiple teachers go unpunished after being accused of sexually abusing students. The suit includes claims from multiple adults who were once students in the district. It also said the school district should've known what the teachers were doing and taken more direct action to address the inappropriate behavior. The district denies those claims in its motion and is asking the judge to throw out the lawsuit. A decision hasn't come down yet.

The Minnesota Senate is voting to bar ICE agents from wearing masks and allow residents to sue. On Monday, the legislature passed them as part of a comprehensive package aimed at responding to Operation Metro Surge. After hours of debate, the bills narrowly passed along party lines by a vote of 34 to 33. It now heads to the tied Minnesota House, where it faces dim prospects. Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth and other Republicans have voiced opposition.

Local-Regional News May 12

 Mondovi residents will be seeing an increase in garbage fees. The city says the fees will increase of $1.70 to $2.25 depending on the size of the garbage container. The increase is due to increased costs to provide garbage services by GFI. The new rates go into effect with the June billing.

The Mondovi City Council is meeting tonight. Items on the agenda include approval of the offer to purchase two lots in Peeso Creek Terrace, approval of the discontinuation of the CDBG Housing RFL program and reports from the Mayor and Department heads. Tonights meeting begins at 5:30 at the Marten Center in Mondovi.

A Rochester man has been sentenced to prison for murdering a woman in Wabasha County last year. 45Yr old Craig Hameister pleaded guilty to second-degree murder with intent in Wabasha County Court and was sentenced to 34yrs in prison on Monday. In June of 2025, authorities found 36yr old Melissa Hunt with significant injuries. Hunt later died at the hospital.

Firefighters from Wabasha, Kellogg and Lake City responded to a large hillside grass fire on Saturday. Firefighters were able to save a home. “Dry conditions have created an environment where flames can advance quickly, said Fire Chief Darren Sheeley. Moderate to high fire conditions continue in Western Wisconsin and Eastern Minnesota.

Osseo police are searching for a suspect after a high-speed chase. An OPD officer was patrolling the area of Harmony Street and 10th Street early last week when he saw a motorcycle speeding. The officer attempted to stop the vehicle, but the driver drove away at a high speed, reaching around 130-miles-per-hour. Officials say a K9 officer later tracked the suspect, but was not arrested. OPD is looking for information on the suspect's location so they can take him into custody.

Officials say a pair of batteries charging in a kitchen is the likely cause of a weekend house fire in Eau Claire County. A residence in the town of Wilson went up in flames and was destroyed on Saturday. A dog died as a result of the fire though no other injuries were reported.

A Sparta man is in custody after a woman reported her husband strangled her. The Monroe County Sheriff's Office first responded to a report of a domestic disturbance in April, with the victim saying her husband, Randal Cuntiz, tried to kill her. Deputies observed red marks across her neck and bruising on her left temple. Cuntiz was arrested on multiple charges, including attempted first degree intentional homicide. His initial court appearance is scheduled for June 1st.

A former U-W-L student accused of sexually assaulting teen girls in his dorm room is pleading no contest to charges in the case. Caden Atkinson was originally charged in February of last year and had pleaded not guilty to charges of sexual assault. He changed that plea to no contest on Monday and has been allowed to enter into a diversion agreement that could result in all charges in the matter being dismissed.

Rusk County authorities have identified the body of a man missing since Saturday on Fish Lake. According to the Rusk County Sheriff’s Department, on Monday, divers found the body of 19yr Stanley Lang of New Auburn. On Saturday night authorities received a call about a possible drowning on Fish Lake in Rusk Township. The investigation in the Lang’s death is underway.

Tony Evers reaches an historic agreement with Republican legislative leaders. A bipartisan deal will invest more than $600 million in schools, provide property tax relief and eliminate taxes on overtime and tips. The agreement was announced Monday after months of negotiations between the Democratic governor, Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, and Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu, none of whom are running for reelection this fall. It will use a portion of the state's surplus to increase K-12 special education reimbursement to 50 percent — the largest in state history. The package provides more than $850 million in direct payments, with individuals receiving $300, and married couples filing jointly receiving $600 or their net tax liability, whichever is less. The Joint Committee on Finance is set to take up the proposal Tuesday. With the Assembly and Senate expected to vote on Wednesday, Evers could sign the bill as early as next week.

A woman is dead and a man is in custody in a Sauk County shooting. Sauk County Deputies found the woman dead in the parking lot of Pewitt's Nest Nature Preserve in Baraboo on Friday afternoon, after receiving several calls about a man pulling a woman from a vehicle, shooting her multiple times and fleeing. An hour later, a man allegedly fired several gunshots into the front door and vestibule of the Sauk Prairie Police Department headquarters. Following that shooting, officers took the alleged gunman into custody after stopping his vehicle. An investigation found that the man was the suspect in both shooting incidents. There were no other injuries. He’s being held in the Sauk County Jail.

An 11th offense OWI arrest in Columbia County. 58 year old Robert Ramsey of Winnebago Wisconsin, was arrested Sunday night near Poynette. The State Patrol says they started getting complaints earlier in the evening that Ramsey was swerving and nearly crashed into other drivers and guard rails on I 39 in Marquette County. Another trooper spotted Ramsey's SUV in Columbia County and pulled him over near a truck stop. During the stop, the state trooper learned Ramsey was on parole for 10 prior OWI convictions.

The Minnesota House is passing a bill to create an office of inspector general. On Thursday, the bipartisan legislation was created to oversee public funds and to investigate fraud allegations. Fraudsters have bilked hundreds of millions of dollars from state-supervised safety net programs. With the midterm elections coming in November, Republicans see the issue as one of their best campaign issues. While Democrats seem anxious to show they're taking action to combat the theft of public money.

Catalytic converter thefts are on the rise in Madison. Police officials say older model Toyota Priuses are being targeted around Midtown district. More than a dozen converters have been stolen so far this year, and nearly half of the thefts have taken place since May 2nd.

Monona police are showing off a new piece of technology to make vehicle pursuits safer. The department gave a demonstration last week of a new tool called a "Grappler," which can be used during police chases. It allows police to fire a net in an attempt to catch a tire and axle of the vehicle, allowing them to slow a suspect car down in a controlled manner. Officials explained there will be two squads with the grappler in the field, thanks in part to funding by the asset forfeiture program. The city approved the purchase back in December.

Local-Regional News May 11

 

A Dunn County high school student is receiving a ten-thousand-dollar scholarship to put towards his college education. Boyceville High's William Engel is receiving Olympiad Founders' Scholarship. He is one of just five students nationally to receive the science award this year. An estimated four-thousand students applied for the scholarship which is award based on academic achievement, community engagement and commitment to Science Olympiad.

The City of Wabasha will be holding the annual spring clean up event on May 16^th from 8-Noon at the Old Athletic Field. The event will be for Wabasha and Kellogg residents only. No yard waste, garbage or hazardous waste will be accepted. For a complete list of acceptable items, contact Wabasha City Hall.

The City of Wabasha has closed Lawrence Boulevard East at the Baily Avenue intersection due to road construction. The road was closed as construction at the intersection of Main Street, Washington Avenue, and Market Street may not always allow thru traffic.

In closed session today, members of Eau Claire City Council will receive a list of those who have expressed interest in serving as the community's interim city manager. Stephanie Hirsch resigned from the post last month. An announcement on the position is expected tomorrow.

Charges are being filed against an Illinois man following a Saturday traffic stop in Eau Claire. Wisconsin State Patrol says that Ramon Gonzalez Gonzalez was driving at twice the posted speed limit when pulled over on I-94 and that he showed signs of impairment. The suspect had two minors with him inside the vehicle. Gonzalez Gonzalez was arrested for suspicion of OWI.

A former Winona high school teacher who pleaded guilty to sexually assaulting three students is going to prison. Eric Birth was sentenced yesterday to 90 months behind bars. The 32-year-old defendant also served as a track coach at the high school before he became a licensed teacher and gym teacher. Prosecutors say all three of the victims, were between ages 16 and 18, were on Birth's track team.

The rapid expansion of data centers is raising concerns over the permanent loss of prime agricultural land and the immense strain on local power and water resources. An agricultural policy expert thinks local county boards shouldn't have to face pressure, alone, from multi-billion-dollar tech companies wanting to build facilities. Jonathon Coppess, Professor of Agriculture Policy at the University of Illinois is concerned bout data-centers being sited on land zoned for agricultural use.  In Coppess' view, siting of data-centers, because of the resource demands, is too much to ask of a board alone. He says while it could be handled by state legislators, this type of land-use question will ultimately need to be addressed by the federal government.

A Republican running for Wisconsin governor is getting an endorsement from a man who used to hold the office. Former Governor Tommy Thompson announced his endorsement of Tom Tiffany on Friday, calling him the right leader for the Badger State's future. Thompson added he looks forward to campaigning with Tiffany and other Republicans ahead of this November's contest. Thompson served as Wisconsin's governor until 2001 when he was picked to serve in the George Bush administration.

Wisconsin drivers could see a sharp rise in diesel prices soon. Gas-Buddy analyst Patrick De Haan says the state's average diesel price could top six-dollars per gallon. The current diesel average is about five-dollars-and-66-cents per gallon. De Haan says fuel prices increased across the Midwest, though Wisconsin saw smaller increases than some neighboring states.

Wisconsin health officials say new training for first responders is helping drive a sharp drop in overdose deaths statewide. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services recently wrapped up a first-of-its-kind Overdose Prevention Summit series for first responders. More than 250 emergency workers from nearly 130 agencies took part in five regional summits, sharing local strategies and learning about a changing drug supply, including fentanyl and the emerging sedative medetomidine. DHS says partnerships with first responders are key, as overdose deaths in Wisconsin dropped more than 42 percent from 2023 to 2024.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency is continuing its assessment of flooding damage along the Wolf River in Shiocton. FEMA Spokesperson Nicole Wilson says any information they gather will be sent to Governor Tony Evers' office for review and the state will have to make a request to the agency for relief funding. And if the governor decides that they do need more assistance than what the state can provide, the request still has to be approved by President Trump. Wilson says FEMA will stay in the area until it has a total understanding of the impact.

Appleton is dropping its contract with Flock Safety. Mayor Jake Woodford announced Wednesday the city would not renew its contract with the security company. Flock Safety provides automated license plate readers to communities, but has faced increasing criticism from the public over privacy concerns. Mayor Woodford thanked Flock for helping the city solve crimes, but said that any regulations the city sets on the use of the data Flock is collecting cannot be enforced on the company itself or on other departments that might get access to Appleton's data.

A man is facing 21 charges in connection with an animal abuse case in Marathon County. Investigators say deputies found seven dead dogs, three dead goats, and ten malnourished dogs at a property in the Town of Day. Court documents say surviving dogs showed signs of severe malnutrition and were living in unsanitary conditions without food or water. The complaint says 29-year-old Joseph Carey told authorities he fell into a depression and stopped caring for the animals. Carey is expected back in court later this month to learn whether the case will proceed to trial.

Wisconsin dairy farmers and business leaders are urging the U.S. to maintain its trade deals within the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The Treaty is about to be reviewed by the three nations. Wisconsin dairy leaders say trade deals are essential for exports and supply chain stability and growth.

A large African stork is drawing attention across the state. Witnesses say the marabou stork has been sighted all week and has two rings on its left leg. A representative with natural resources says the bird is not wild and likely escaped from captivity. The stork appears healthy and can fly. 

Local-Regional News May 8

 

Students at U.W. River Falls, Stout and Eau Claire are among those being impacted by a hacking incident. CANVAS -- a cloud-based digital hub for classrooms used by colleges, universities and other school systems across the country -- including the University of Wisconsin system -- was recently the victim of a security breach. U.W. says an investigation is underway to determine the full impact of that breach.

A Welch man is accused of illegally killing a bobcat. Leslie Grinsteinner has been charged with gunning down the wild animal out of season, failing to register and tag a deer he shot and deer hunting without a license. Authorities say the defendant shot the bobcat because it was eating his cats. Grinsteinner made the kill three weeks before the hunting season opened for that animal. The defendant was charged by summons and is due in Goodhue County Court on June 11th.

A Lake City Teacher is being recognized for their work. Marie Kruse was named the 2026 Minnesota Agriculture in the Classroom Teacher of the year. The award recognizes Kruse for her work in helping students know where their food comes from. Kruse will receive an expense-paid trip to the national Agriculture in the Classroom conference in Providence, Rhode Island, in June.

Wabasha’s Bike Share is up and running with a new program thanks to the Wabasha Rotary, and Wabasha Main Street. Wabasha Bike/Walk Advocates have secured six Republic Bikes for the City of Wabasha Public Bikes program.  Bikes are free for the first 10 hours and need to be returned by 10 pm each day. Bikes are located downtown Wabasha on Main Street at Heritage Park by the sidewalk under the Wabasha Interstate Bridge. A credit card and a smartphone are all that is needed to unlock a bike. No charge will be generated if the bike is returned within 10 hours.

The Buffalo County Dairy Promotions Committee is now accepting applications for the 2026 Buffalo County Dairy Princess. The princes attends the Buffalo County Dairy Breakfast and other events throughout the year representing the Dairy Industry in Buffalo County, and receives a scholarship. For more information email buffalo co dairy breakfast at outlook dot com.

The Durand Improvement Group has released the bands for this years music in the park. Half Shebang will perform on June 17^th, Left Wing Burbon is July 15 and Chris Kroeze is August 19. Other event will be held in conjunction with Music in the Park. The Touch-A-Truck event is June 17, Craze Daze July 15 and Taste of Durand on August 19. Music it the Park will be held from 6-9pm at Memorial Park in Durand.

Wisconsin Congressman Derrick Van Orden took part in a roundtable discussion about veterans' issues Thursday in Sparta. Staffing at V.A. facilities was among the items talked about with local vets. U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins was also on-hand for the event.

Two men are facing charges with authorities saying they gained unlawful entry to the Eau Claire Children's Museum. According to reports, Shaun Craig and Ethan Guilhas got in after business hours on Tuesday and made a mess of things though no real damage was done. The duo was arrested at the scene.

Charges are being considered against a Stanley-Boyd High School student who police say had multiple weapons and rounds of ammunition in their vehicle. Stanley Police were called to the school yesterday after staffers were informed by students a classmate potentially had a weapon in their vehicle in the school parking lot. The weapons and ammo were found during a search by officers. The matter is being referred to the Chippewa County Juvenile Court.

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency is expecting two weeks' worth of wildfire smoke alerts this summer. A strong El Niño is expected to bring in warmer and drier conditions as well as intense storms that increase the chances of fire activity in Minnesota. The agency predicts local wildfires and those in Canada and across the West will bring 12 to 16 days of wildfire smoke. Smoke from wildfires can contain fine particles that pose health risks for everyone. The highest-risk areas include the Twin Cities suburbs and parts of southeastern Minnesota, near Rochester.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency is canvassing flood damaged areas. Fox 11 News reports FEMA staff are knocking on doors in the Shiocton area to see how much damage was done by last month's record flooding. The Wolf River crested its banks and threatened to burst a dam.

A surprise celebration honored one of Wisconsin’s newest Teachers of the Year. The Department of Public Instruction this week named Wauwatosa East High School English teacher Jonathan Etter the first of five 2026–27 Wisconsin Teachers of the Year. The announcement came during a schoolwide surprise celebration. Etter has taught English since 1996 and has spent the past 19 years at East, where he’s helped expand advanced academics and dual enrollment opportunities. He also teaches college credit courses through UW–Green Bay. Etter will receive a three-thousand-dollar award from Herb Kohl Philanthropies.

A man accused in the death of a Lincoln Hills youth counselor has withdrawn his previous pleas. Officials say Javarius Hurd assaulted two staff members at the youth prison in June 2024, fatally injuring counselor Corey Proulx. Hurd previously pleaded guilty but not guilty by reason of mental disease or defect to second-degree reckless homicide and battery charges. A judge granted Hurd's request to withdraw those pleas during a hearing yesterday in Lincoln County. Court records show the homicide charge has been upgraded to first-degree reckless homicide. A hearing is scheduled for next month.

The Trump administration is reportedly turning over evidence in the case of an ICE agent shooting and killing of Renee Good early this year in Minneapolis. The deadly incident happened during a traffic stop at East 34th Street and Portland Avenue on January 7th. Attorneys for Good's family say they're cautiously optimistic that the evidence was turned over and have concerns about full compliance. Last month, Minnesota state and county officials sued the federal government alleging they are being blocked from investigating the shootings of Good, Alex Pretti and Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis by federal agents.

Sentencing is being ordered for a man convicted in a deadly Prairie du Chien stabbing. Sixty-five-year-old Daniel Welsch was killed in 2024. Forty-year-old defendant Jessie Slaughter pleaded no contest to a 1st Degree Reckless Homicide charge in February of this year. He has now been sentenced to a term of 25 years behind bars.

Minnesota is banning cryptocurrency ATMs. On Tuesday, Governor Tim Walz signed the bipartisan bill into law. It bans kiosks that sell virtual currencies like Bitcoin. There are around 350 kiosks in Minnesota. The Department of Commerce estimated that state residents lost about one million dollars to kiosk scams in the last three years.