Winnebago County weighs backups after local newspaper closure for legal notices

County staff told the board that the county’s only local newspaper has closed, prompting discussion about where to publish legal notices and other statutory postings.

Carla Weiss (county staff) said the paper's closure arrived suddenly and asked what the county should do for legal notices. Board members discussed temporary options including using the Northwood paper as a backup, posting minutes and legal notices on the county website, and physically posting notices at the courthouse. One board member noted that the Northwood newspaper delivers into Buffalo Center and could serve as an interim option.

Members also said they would explore whether the county can purchase a paper, and whether alternative local publications might fill the gap. A county official noted there may be legislative proposals to allow electronic posting in lieu of print, but said they did not want to see local businesses disappear.

County staff said they will return with a recommendation and identify a backup publication for next week's posting if needed. No formal policy change was adopted at the meeting; staff will follow up to ensure legal-notice requirements are met.