Council approves $2,000 for Blackduck Area Toys for Kids; senior center seeks help, History Center withdraws request

The Blackduck City Council voted to donate $2,000 to the Blackduck Area Toys for Kids program after hearing from organizer Erica, who said the program served 255 children last year and is trimming toy allotments this year because of rising costs.

Erica, who said she buys toys year‑round to stock the program, estimated toy costs at about $30 per child this year and told the council 16 families (38 children) had already signed up. "We have 16 families already signed up and 38 kids," Erica said, describing storage and volunteer challenges; council members voted to approve a $2,000 donation to support the program.

Shortly after the toys request, representatives of the senior center — including R. Anderson (president) and board member Georgia Plumber — requested assistance to replace worn flooring. Council heard an earlier estimate near $25,500 for a preferred flooring option and a scaled option of about $19,000; members discussed whether to reallocate previously earmarked funds (including amounts set aside for a local restoration project) and whether to wait until the senior center has a full window‑treatments budget before approving additional city funding.

Rob Anga, representing the Blackduck History and Art Center, told the council he reviewed the center’s finances and "is withdrawing my donation request," saying the History Center can cover its insurance bill this year and declining to pursue a city contribution.

Council members praised volunteers and urged community participation in donation and wrapping days; staff will record the appropriation for Toys for Kids in the city ledger and coordinate any further requests from the senior center at a future meeting.