In a meeting marked by transitions and community initiatives, the St. Croix County Community Development Committee gathered on September 18, 2025, to discuss key updates and future plans. As the meeting unfolded, it became clear that change was in the air, particularly with the announcement of a leadership transition. The current chair, who has guided the committee through numerous discussions, revealed that this would be their last regularly scheduled meeting. With the upcoming county board meeting in October, the vice chair, Scott, will take the reins, setting the agenda for future discussions and overseeing the election of a new chair.
Among the notable announcements was the receipt of a $10,000 grant aimed at groundwater monitoring. This funding will support efforts to evaluate the effectiveness of water treatment systems, particularly in removing nitrates from local water supplies. The project, a collaboration with public health officials, is expected to be completed by July 2026, highlighting the county's commitment to environmental health and safety.
Additionally, the committee shared updates on community events, including a new initiative for disposing of upholstered furniture. Residents can drop off items like couches and recliners at Olsen's Sanitation in Somerset for a fee of $10 per item, reflecting a cost-sharing approach between the county and property owners. This initiative follows a successful electronic waste collection event that attracted 585 participants, demonstrating the community's engagement in sustainable practices.
As the meeting wrapped up, the committee set the date for their next regular meeting on October 16, 2025, leaving members and attendees with a sense of anticipation for the changes ahead and the ongoing efforts to enhance community development in St. Croix County.