2022 Maintenance Overlay Program

The 2022 Maintenance Overlay Program involves the following routes in Wright County: County Road 113 from County Highway 12 to County Road 117; County Road 104 from State Highway 24 to County Highway 7 (maps below).

• CR 113 Overlays
• CR 104 Overlays

The type o...

2022 Seal Coat Construction

Wright County’s Seasonal Seal Coating is scheduled to begin on Tuesday, June 7, 2022 on approximately 26 miles of Wright County Highways.  Locations of seal coating routes are shown on the attached map.

The project will be completed around mid-Jun...

County Highway 37 Construction

County Highway (Hwy) 37, from Hwy 19 to Hwy 18, will be reconstructed beginning May 16th and is scheduled to be completed by October 15th, 2022.  The project will include an overall detour that directs thru traffic to Hwy 18.  Local resi...

Wright County Highway 7 Closure – Howard Lake

Closure Beginning:  Monday, April  18, 2022

Closure Ending: Mid-June

The City of Howard Lake and Wright County are partnering on an important pedestrian safety and pavement preservation project along County Highway 7 in Howard Lake.

The wor...

Roadside Spraying

Beginning on May 2, 2022 the Wright County Highway Department, as part of its vegetation management program, will be scheduling some roadside vegetation work along all Wright County highways.  The unwanted brush and noxious weeds will be cut and/...

Join the Bertram Chain of Lakes Advisory Council

Wright County and the City of Monticello invite Wright County residents to take part in the Bertram Chain of Lakes Advisory Council.

Applications for the vacant Citizen-at-large position on the Bertram Chain of Lakes Advisory Council are now being...

Otsego County Park Playground Replacement

On Monday, May 2, 2022 we will start the process of replacing the playground at Otsego County Park. We are excited about the changes that will be coming to the playground with new equipment, safety surfacing, and an expanded play area.

 What does ...

Wright County Sheriff’s Office Activity Report for Period Ending May 23, 2022

On May 16^th, Clayton Robert Kessler, 20 of Buffalo was arrested in Hennepin County on a Wright County warrant for Theft.

On May 16^th, Jordan Steven Lorentz, 33 of Cottage Grove was arrested in Buffalo on a Wright County warrant for Theft.

On May 16^th, Micha...

Wright County Sheriff’s Office Activity Report For Period Ending May 16th, 2022

On May 9^th, James Scott Beatty Jr, 55 of Dassel was arrested in Cokato on a Wright County warrant for Intent to Escape Tax on MV Registration.

On May 9^th, Sean Michael Bernier, 34 of St Bonifacius was arrested in Buffalo on a Wright County warrant for 5^th ...

Wright County Sheriff’s Office Activity Report for Period Ending May 9, 2022

On May 2^nd, Joshua Mogaka Achuka, 32 of Otsego was arrested in Otsego on a charge of Domestic Assault.

On May 2^nd, Justin Allen Ackerman, 27 of Buffalo was arrested in Buffalo on a Wright County warrant for 3^rd Degree DWI.

On May 2^nd, Arlesha Shalene Burch,...

Wright County Sheriff’s Office Activity Report for Period Ending May 2, 2022

On April 25^th, Steven Prescott Bairett, 49 of Sauk Rapids was arrested in Annandale on charges of 2^nd Degree Assault and Reckless Discharge of a Firearm.

On April 25^th, Joshua Jerell Kendrick, 36 of Cokato was arrested in Cokato on a charge of Domestic Ass...

Wright County Sheriff’s Office Activity Report for Period Ending April 25, 2022

On April 18^th, Emmanuel Atuah Addo, 29 of Oakdale was arrested in Buffalo on a Wright County warrant for Domestic Assault.

On April 18^th, Daniel James Berg, 20 of Elk River was arrested in Washington County on Wright County warrants for Violate Domestic Ab...

Wright County Sheriff’s Office Activity Report for Period Ending April 18, 2022

Wright County Sheriff’s Office Activity Report for Period Ending April 18, 2022

On April 11^th, Donald Joseph Hartmann, 32 of Minneapolis was arrested in Hennepin County on a Wright County warrant for 5^th Degree Controlled Substance.

On A...

Wright County Sheriff’s Office Activity Report for Period Ending April 11, 2022

On April 4^th, Austin Steven Alama, 25, of Annandale was arrested in Annandale on a charge of 2^nd Degree Assault.

On April 4^th, Donald Victor Chatman, 52, of Mound was arrested in Hennepin County on a Wright County warrant for Theft.

On April 4^th, Jonathan T...

Wright County HHS Seeking RFPs to Support Community Wellbeing

A Message from Wright County Health & Human Services

Wright County Health and Human Services Department recognizes that trauma, injustice, health inequities, and other systemic forces create persistent barriers to individual and community wellbeing. In...

Jury Impaneled in Ulrich Case

The jury has been impaneled in the trial of Gregory Ulrich, who is facing one first-degree premeditated murder charge, four counts of first-degree premeditated attempted murder and numerous other charges stemming from the shooting and bombing at the Allin...

MnDOT Promotes the Practice of Zipper Merging

With several projects going on throughout the state that are reducing lanes of traffic, the Minnesota Department of Transportation has taken sides on how drivers should merge in traffic – promoting the practice of “zipper merging.&...

Seven Jurors Seated in Ulrich Trial

Jury selection in the trial of Gregory Ulrich, accused in the Feb. 9, 2021 shooting and bombing of the Allina Crossroads Clinic in Buffalo, enters a third day today (Wednesday, May 18). To date seven jurors have been seated – five on Monday and ...

U of M Extension Offering Youth Tractor and Farm Safety June 14-15

University of Minnesota Extension will be offering a Youth Tractor and Farm Safety Certification at six locations across the state in 2022. The youth tractor and farm safety certification program provides youth 14 years and older the opportunity to learn ...

Zebra Mussels Confirmed in Lake Pulaski

In a statement released today by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the aquatic invasive species zebra mussels have been confirmed in Lake Pulaski north of Buffalo. To see the full DNR release, click here: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/news/2022...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report for the period of May 9-15. The full report can be seen here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=3357

License Center Now Offer Class D Written Driver's Testing

A Message from Wright County License Center:

Starting Monday, May 16, the Wright County License Center (3650 Braddock Ave. NE) will be offering the Class D Written Knowledge Exam. The test is offered electronically only and it can be taken in English or Sp...

Highway 12 in Montrose Closed for One Week Starting May 16

Highway 12 will be closed for construction starting Monday, May 16 and will be open to traffic by Monday, May 23. The road closure will occur at the intersection of Highway 12 and Center Avenue S. Highway 12 traffic will be detoured south of Montrose util...

Click It or Ticket Seatbelt Enforcement Campaign Coming

From May 23 to June 5, 2022, state and local law enforcement agencies across the nation are conducting enforcement efforts for motorists who aren’t wearing their seat belts. For this year’s Click It or Ticket seat belt mobilization eff...

Filing for Elected Offices Opens Tuesday, May 17

A Message from Wright County Elections

Candidate filing for the 2022 general election opens Tuesday, May 17, 2022. Office seekers may file their affidavit of candidacy until May 31. For more information about filing for office in Wright County, please visi...

Highway Department Announces 2022 Overlay Projects

A Message from the Wright County Highway Department:

The 2022 Maintenance Overlay Program involves the following routes in Wright County: County Road 113 from County Highway 12 to County Road 117 and County Road 104 from State Highway 24 to County Highway ...

First Half Property Taxes Due By Monday, May 16

Wright County Taxpayer Services would like to remind citizens that first Half Property Taxes are due on or before May 16, 2022. Wright County Taxpayers can pay their property taxes in several ways.

In Person: Our office is located at the new Government Cen...

Jury Selection in Ulrich Trial Begins Today

Jury selection in the trial of Gregory Ulrich begins today at the Wright County Justice Center. Ulrich is charged in the Feb. 9, 2021 shooting and bombing of the Allina Crossroads Clinic in Buffalo that left one person dead and three critically injured. H...

Highway Department Announces 2022 Seal Coating Sites

A Message from the Wright County Highway Department:

Wright County’s Seasonal Seal Coating is scheduled to begin on Tuesday, June 7, 2022 on approximately 26 miles of Wright County Highways. Locations of seal coating routes are shown a map availa...

License Center Ready as Fishing Opener Approaches

A Message from the Wright County License Center:

The Minnesota fishing opener is this weekend and the Wright County License Center wants those in need of boat registration/tabs or licenses that its drive-thru window is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekday...

Fatal Accident Monday in Maple Lake Township

A Message from the Wright County Sheriff’s Office

At approximately 4:11 p.m. Monday, May 9, Wright County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to a two-vehicle crash at the intersection of County Road 12 NW and County Road 37 NW in...

Segment of CSAH 7 in Howard Lake to Close for Two Days

The Wright County Highway Department has announced that beginning Monday, May 16, a section of CSAH 7 in Howard Lake will be closed for a drain tile repair. The location of the repair is 2,500 feet north of Imhalff Avenue SW on CSAH 7. This is expected to...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report for the period of May 2-8. The full report can be seen here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=3340

How to Get Involved in Elections in Wright County

A Message from Wright County Elections:

The Wright County elections team has fielded numerous questions about how to get involved with elections in Wright County. There are many ways to get involved with elections in the county depending on what kind of ti...

CSAH 37 Construction to Start Monday, March 16

A Message from the Wright County Highway Department:

County Highway 37 from Highway 19 in Albertville to Highway 18 at the boundary line of Otsego and Monticello Township will begin construction Monday, May 16 and is scheduled to be completed by Saturday, ...

First Half Property Taxes Due By Monday, May 16

Wright County Taxpayer Services would like to remind citizens that first Half Property Taxes are due on or before May 16, 2022.  Wright County Taxpayers can pay their property taxes in several ways.

In Person: Our office is located at the new Gove...

County Board Approves Updated Parks Master Plan

At its Tuesday, May 3 meeting, the Wright County Board of Commissioners approved the Parks & Recreation Department’s updated Master Plan – a comprehensive document that serves as a guide for the short-term and long-term goals of th...

Bertram Chain of Lakes Advisory Council Looking for At-Large Member

The Bertram Chain of Lakes Advisory Council is looking for Wright County residents to apply for a vacant at-large seat currently available on the council. Wright County Parks & Recreation has created a page with links explaining the Advisory Council a...

Highway Department Roadside Spraying Starts Today

Beginning today (Monday, May 2), the Wright County Highway Department, as part of its vegetation management program, will be scheduling roadside vegetation work along all Wright County highways. The unwanted brush and noxious weeds will be cut and/or trea...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report for the period of April 25 to May 1. The full report can be seen here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=3329

No Mow May Has Begun

Typically a homeowner in any neighborhood that doesn’t regularly mow the lawn is viewed as being lazy, inattentive and neglectful. However, homeowners are actually being encouraged not to mow their lawns this month because it can help bees and o...

Spring Load Restrictions to Be Lifted May 13

A Message from the Wright County Highway Department:

Spring Load Restrictions (SLR) will be removed on highways under Wright County’s jurisdiction at 12:01 a.m. Friday, May 13. 

Wright County highways typically follow the Minnesota Depart...

County Board Meetings Moving to New Government Center Tuesday

Despite delays due to supply chain issues, the Wright County Board of Commissioners meetings will now take place on the first floor of the new Government Center (3650 Braddock Ave. NE north of Buffalo) at 9 a.m. Tuesdays when regular board meetings are sc...

Sheriff's Office Announces Program to Combat Catalytic Converter Theft

A Message from the Wright County Sheriff’s Office:

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office is excited to announce the partnering with the Minnesota Department of Commerce with the Catalytic Converter Pilot Program. This program allows Wright...

Otsego Park Playground to Close for Replacement May 2

On Monday, May 23, 2022 we will start the process of replacing the playground at Otsego County Park. We are excited about the changes that will be coming to the playground with new equipment, safety surfacing, and an expanded play area.

What does this mean...

License Center Offers Tips on Getting Boat Registrations

A Message from the Wright County License Center

Memorial Day Weekend is a month away which means boating season is right around the corner (hopefully). Here are a few quick ways to renew your boat registration/tabs at the Wright County License Center.&...

CSAH 3 to Close May 9-12 for Railroad Track Repair

A Message from the Wright County Highway Department

The Wright County Highway Department has been informed that Canadian Pacific Railroad will close County Highway 3 at the railroad crossing south of State Highway 55 in Southside Township, May 9th-12th to ...

Board Proclaims May 1-7 as Correctional Officers & Employees Week

At its Tuesday, April 26 meeting, the Wright County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a proclamation naming May 1-7 as National Correctional Officers and Employees Week in Wright County.

Created in 1984 by President Ronald Reagan, corrections off...

Veterans Virtual Open House Coming May 10

Two Veterans Administration (VA) medical facilities that serve Central Minnesota – the St. Cloud VA Health Care System and the Brainerd VA clinic – will be conducting a virtual Veterans Town Hall meeting at 2 p.m. Tuesday, May 10.

The m...

MnDOT Announces Lanes Closures for Today, Thursday

Those traveling on I-94 between Clearwater and Monticello may be experiencing delays over the next two days. The Minnesota Department of Transportation has announced that there will be short-term topsoil and pond grading that will result in right lane clo...

County Board Approves Revised Commissioner Districts

At today’s (Tuesday, April 26) meeting of the Wright County Board of Commissioners, the board continued a public hearing concerning the potential redistricting of two county commissioner districts – a process that required a pair of 3-...

Taxpayer Service Addresses Tax Statements Being Returned

A Message from Wright County Taxpayer Services

Late last week, our office began getting reports of property tax payments mailed to the county being returned to the sender as undeliverable. The return envelopes had the former Government Center address (10 2...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report for the period of April 18-24. The full report can be found here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=3312

MnDOT Provides Monday Update on I-94 Construction

The Minnesota Department of Transportation has announced an update on the I-94 construction. As of this morning (Monday, April 25), all traffic from the westbound lanes between Hasty and Monticello have been shifted to the eastbound lanes of traffic. In a...

MnDOT Announces Off-Peak Hour Lane Closures for the Next Week

The Minnesota Department of Transportation has announced nighttime lane closures over the next week until the switch to head-to-head traffic begins on the westbound lanes of I-94 between Monticello and Hasty. Here is the schedule for the next week of lane...

DNR Advises Boaters About Danger of Cold Water

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has put out a news release dealing with cold-water boating. Air temperatures have been unseasonably cold and the same has been true with water temperatures. Ice-out periods came later than a typical year and c...

MnDOT Provides Update on I-94 Construction

The Minnesota Department of Transportation has announced a closure piece to its I-94 project in Wright County coming next week.

The closures will be in the St. Michael-Albertville portion of the project and will take place in the overnight hours of Sunday,...

U of M Extension Discusses Farm Safety

By Karen Johnson, University of Minnesota Extension 

Mother nature has been teasing us with what seems to be spring-like weather. Although we are not quite ready to hit the fields full force, now is an excellent time to think of what you can do to...

Earth Day Hike Postponed One Week

The Wright County Parks & Recreation Department’s scheduled “Hiking Wright: Earth Day” program scheduled for 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. tomorrow (Friday, April 22) at Harry Larson Memorial Forest has been rescheduled to 5 p.m. to 6...

Roadwork Ramping Up on I-94 Between Monticello and Hasty

Roadwork is picking up on the section of I-94 between Monticello and Hasty this morning. Work to divide the westbound lanes to accommodate two-way traffic starting next week has begun and westbound traffic has been reduced to one lane approximately two mi...

County Board to Discuss Potential Commissioner Redistricting

At its Tuesday (April 19) meeting, the Wright County Board of Commissioners conducted a public hearing regarding county commissioner districts. For the first time in 50 years, the populations of the five county commissioner districts were close enough in ...

County Board to Continue to Meet in Old Government Center

The Wright County Board of Commissioners announced Tuesday that its April 26 meeting will be held at the old Government Center – hopefully being the last before moving county board meetings to the new Government Center at 3650 Braddock Ave. NE n...

Husom Announces She Won't Seek Fourth Term

A Message from Christine Husom, Wright County District 1 Commissioner on not seeking a fourth term:

“I was one of four new commissioners sworn in January 2013, and fifth joined us four years later. We had goals, different things we hoped to accom...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its Activity Report for the period of April 11-17. To see the full report, click here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=3299

Traffic Diversion on I-94 Delayed One Week

Drivers on I-94 this morning (April 18) didn’t see what they were expecting – all lanes of traffic between Monticello and Hasty being shifted to the westbound lanes.

The Minnesota Department of Transportation has announced that, due to ...

CSAH 7 In Howard Lake to Close April 18

A Message from the Wright County Highway Department

Wright County Highway 7 Closure – Howard Lake

Closure Beginning: Monday, April 18, 2022

Closure Ending: Mid-June

The City of Howard Lake and Wright County are partnering on an important pedestrian safety and...

Daleiden Announces He Won't Seek a Fourth Term as County Commissioner

A message from County Commissioner Mark Daleiden

"I would like to announce that I will not be running for District 3 County Commissioner this year. It’s time for fresh new ideas to keep the County moving forward. I have enjoyed my time as co...

License Center Drive-Thru Now Open

The Wright County License Center Drive-Thru is now open for motor vehicle tab renewals and DNR renewals. You can also apply for a disability certificate or file your CDL medical certificate. Please remember insurance information is required to renew any v...

Prescription Drug Take Back Day Coming April 30

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office, Wright County Health & Human Services and MEADA (Mentorship, Education and Drug Awareness) are partnering to host National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, Saturday, April 30.

There will be two drive-up loc...

MnDOT Releases List of All 2022 Construction Projects

This week is Work Zone Awareness Week in Minnesota and the Minnesota Department of Transportation is reminding people that 2022 will be an active construction season. MnDOT advises anyone traveling this construction season to check out the path to their d...

MnDOT Seeks Input on Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Plan

The Minnesota Department of Transportation is looking for public input in its Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Plan (EVIP). In Minnesota, the state is expected to invest about $68 million for EVIP over the next five years with the early focus on fast charg...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report covering the period of April 3-9. The full report can be seen here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=3288

MnDOT Announces Closure Plans for I-94 Project

The Minnesota Department of Transportation has announced that a section of I-94 in both directions and another section off the interstate, but part of the same project, will be undergoing intermittent lane and shoulder closing as part of the final constru...

Deringer Announces He Is Running for Re-Election

A Message from Wright County Sheriff Sean Deringer

I, Sheriff Sean Deringer, am formally announcing my campaign for re-election as your Sheriff of Wright County.  Four years ago, I humbly asked for your vote to become the 28^th Sheriff of Wright Co...

Wright County Remains in Burning Restriction Area from DNR

For those looking to burn brush this spring, Wright County remains in the restricted category by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Despite being viewed as being in the Low category for fire danger, the county remains restricted and require va...

Community Dental Releases Promotional Video

Community Dental Care, a non-profit dental clinic that is leasing space in the new Wright County Government Center with the goal is helping those in financial need receive proper dental care, has put out a seven-minute promotional video about its expansio...

Assessor's Office Announces Local Boards of Review Start Today

Starting Monday, April 11, the Wright County Assessor’s Office will be conducting Local Boards of Review for residents who wish to challenge/appeal their property valuation or classification.

All cities and townships are listed below. Nine cities and three...

Department of Agriculture Looking to Identify Emerald Ash Borer Infestations

In 2018, the Minnesota Department of Agriculture confirmed the presence of Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) in Wright County. There are 32 counties in the state with Emerald Ash Borer. To help control the spread, the Minnesota Department of Agriculture enacted a q...

MnDOT Provides Updated Start Time on I-94 Construction

 The Minnesota Department of Transportation has announced a change to the road work that will be done in preparation of moving four lanes of traffic to the westbound lanes of I-94 between Highway 25 in Monticello and CSAH 8 in Hasty/Silver Creek ...

Public Health Releases Weekly COVID-19 Dashboard

Wright County Public Health had some encouraging news with its weekly COVID-19 dashboard, covering the period of April 1-7.

The number of new cases continue to remain at the lowest weekly levels since July 2021. Over the last seven days, there were just 47...

Severe Weather Awareness Week Focusing on Heat Today

Today (April 8) is the final day of Severe Weather Awareness Week and today’s safety topic is extreme heat. Although it’s a little difficult to imagine given the cold we’ve experienced through winter and spring arriving late,...

I-94 Work Between Monticello and Hasty Starting Friday

Although it doesn’t look even remotely springlike today, at 6 p.m. Friday, April 8, work on the fourth and final year of I-94 construction between Clearwater and Maple Grove will resume for the next four months.

Today (April 7), the Minnesota Dep...

Work Zone Awareness Week Coming April 11-15

At its April 5 meeting, the Wright County Board of Commissioners adopted a resolution naming April 11-15 as National Work Zone Awareness Week in Wright County.

The National Work Zone Memorial has more than 1,500 names on it from workers who were killed in ...

Severe Weather Awareness Week Focusing on Tornadoes Today

As part of Severe Weather Awareness Week, today’s focus is on tornadoes. On average there are more than 1,200 tornadoes each year in the United States. As part of the Severe Weather Awareness Week campaign, there will be statewide tornado siren ...

Severe Weather Alert Sirens to Sound Three Times in Two Days

There may some confusion over the next two days about weather alert sirens going off throughout the county. Despite ugly weather, it won’t rise to the level of being severe that would activate warning sirens. However, they will be going off thre...

Severe Weather Awareness Week Focusing on Flooding Today

This week (April 4-8) is Severe Weather Awareness Week in Minnesota. Today’s theme is flooding. Communities most at risk for flooding are those located in low-lying areas, near water or downstream from a dam, but this doesn’t mean floo...

Deputy Loomis, K-9 Grizz Have Great Showing at Competition

Last weekend (April 2-3), K-9 narcotic trials were hosted by the Brainerd and Baxter Police Departments. This was Wright County Sheriff Office Deputy Michael Loomis and K-9 Grizz's first trial outside of the small certification trials Grizz took ...

2022 Candidate Filing Opens May 17

A Message from Wright County Elections

Candidate filing for the 2022 general election opens on Tuesday, May 17, 2022.  Office seekers may file their affidavit of candidacy until Tuesday, May 31.  For more information about filing for offi...

Severe Weather Awareness Week Focusing on Storms, Lightning Today

This week is Severe Weather Awareness Week and, as today’s topic is lightning and severe thunderstorms.

Winds in thunderstorms can exceed 120 miles per hour, which is stronger than most tornadoes. What people refer to as “heat lightning...

County Board to Continue to Meet in Old Government Center

A reminder that, while all Wright County offices have moved into the new Government Center Building north of Buffalo, Tuesday’s Wright County Board of Commissioners meeting will be conducted at the old Government Center in downtown Buffalo. Boar...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report for the period of March 28 to April 3. The full report can be seen here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=3272

April 4-8 Severe Weather Awareness Week

April 4-8 is Severe Weather Awareness Week in Minnesota and there will be a pair of tornado warning drills conducted – one in the afternoon designated for businesses and an evening drill designed for second shift workers and families. The purpos...

Public Health Releases Weekly COVID-19 Dashboard

Wright County Public Health had some encouraging news with its weekly COVID-19 dashboard, covering the period of March 25-31.

For the fourth straight week, the number of new cases dropped to the lowest weekly numbers since July 2021. Over the last seven da...

All County Departments Now Located on Braddock Ave. Campus

As of 8 a.m. today (April 1), all Wright County offices and departments are on the county campus on Braddock Avenue north of Buffalo. The last office to reopen was the License Center, which is now fully open to customers. The old Government Center in down...

MnDOT Seeking Public Input for Long-Range Transportation Plan

The Minnesota Department of Transportation Region 7W, which serves Benton, Sherburne, Stearns and Wright counties are inviting residents who live and drive in the area to take an on-line map survey to pinpoint the issues for the area’s Long-Rang...

License Center Accepting Appointments

A Message from the Wright County License Center:

The License Center is scheduled to open at 8 a.m. tomorrow (Friday, April 1) and staff wants the public to know that, starting Monday, April 4, appointments will be accepted. Because more staff will be able ...

Parking Won't Be An Issue at the New Government Center

For years as Wright County outgrew the old Government Center, parking became a bigger issue, as the front parking lot could only handle about 15 vehicles at any given time. That won’t be an issue at the new Government Center. Given the volume of...

County Board to Conduct Public Hearing April 19 on Redistricting

At its March 28 meeting, the Wright County Board of Commissioners authorized setting a public hearing for the Tuesday, April 19 county board meeting prior to approving a redistricting documents to the Minnesota Secretary of State’s Office.

Howeve...

Recorder's Office Opens at New Government Center

The Wright County Recorder’s Office has announced that has opened for business at the new Government Center (3650 Braddock Ave. NE north of Buffalo). As a reminder, the public records room won’t open until 8 a.m. Monday, April 4.

County License Center Does Not Do Written, Road Driver Testing

A Message from the Wright County License Center

There has been some confusion surrounding the move of the Wright County Government Center offices and departments that the License Center is doing driver testing. The office hopes to start offering written te...

All County Offices, Departments Closed at Old Government Center

As of today (March 30), all Wright County offices and departments have vacated the old Government Center in Buffalo and have moved to the new Government Center at 3650 Braddock Ave. NE north of Buffalo.

All offices are open in the new facility with two exc...

Property Tax Statements Mailed Out Today

As of today (March 29), Wright County has mailed the 2022 Tax Statements for real and personal property. If you are a Wright County property taxpayer and do not receive yours, please call the Taxpayer Services Office at 763-682-7573 or 763-682-7574 or cli...

License Center to Close at 3 P.M. Tuesday, Re-Open Friday

An Important Message from the Wright County License Center

The Wright County License Center will close at 3 p.m. Tuesday, March 29 in preparation for the move into the new Government Center (3650 Braddock Ave. NE). The drive up drop box located on the east...

Roadside Spraying on County Highways to Start May 2

Beginning Monday May 2, 2022, the Wright County Highway Department, as part of its vegetation management program, will be scheduling roadside vegetation work along all Wright County highways. The unwanted brush and noxious weeds will be cut and/or treated...

County Board Meetings to Remain in Current Government Center

A reminder that, while the move from the old Government Center in downtown Buffalo to the new Government Center at 3650 Braddock Ave. NE north of Buffalo off Hwy. 25 will be completed this week, the Wright County Board of Commissioners meetings will conti...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report for the period of March 21-27. The full report can be seen here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=3253

Assessor's Office to Mail Out 2022 Valuations for Property Taxes Next Week

A Message from Wright County Assessor Tony Rasmuson

The Wright County Assessor’s office recently completed the 2022 property assessment. Proposed 2022 valuations for property taxes payable in 2023 will be mailed out Tuesday, March 29. Property owners recei...

Recorder's Office Closed Monday Through Wednesday

The Wright County Recorder’s Office will be closed Monday March 28 through Wednesday March 30 as the department moves into the new Government Center building. If the move is completed earlier than anticipated, the office may reopen Wednesday aft...

Planning and Zoning Office Closed Until Tuesday

Wright County Planning & Zoning closed for business at 2:30 p.m. today (March 25) as part of the move of county departments from the old Government Center in downtown Buffalo to the new Government Center at 3650 Braddock Ave. NE north of Buffalo. The ...

Both Eggs on DNR Eagle Cam Have Hatched

The first of two eggs hatched Tuesday for the pair of nesting eagles on the Minnesota Department of Natural Resource’s Eagle Cam. The second egg hatched this morning.

The Eagle Cam livestream can be found here: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/features/webcams/...

Public Health Releases Weekly COVID-19 Dashboard

Wright County Public Health has released its weekly COVID-19 dashboard for the period of March 18-24 and, for second straight week, the number of new cases over that seven-day period was the lowest since July 2021.

There were just 33 new confirmed cases ov...

MnDOT Looking for Input for Region 7W Long Range Plan

The Minnesota Department of Transportation is inviting residents in Region 7W (Benton, Sherburne, Stearns and Wright counties) to provide input to identify and develop the Region 7W Long Range Transportation Plan.

MnDOT has an interactive survey map that w...

Assessor's Office Closed at Old Government Center Friday

The Wright County Government Center will be moving (March 21-30) to its new location at 3650 Braddock Ave NE, north of Buffalo, next to the County Jail and Justice Center. The County Assessor’s Office will be closed Friday, March 25 at ...

City Street Sweeping to Begin March 28

Wright County has hired Pearson Bros. of Hanover, Minnesota to do street sweeping on our county highways this year. Street sweeping will begin Monday, March 28 on county highways that are within the city limits of Albertville, Annandale, Buffalo, Clearwat...

HHS Now Open in New Government Center

Wright County Health & Human Services has opened at its new location on the second floor of the new Government Center (3650 Braddock Ave. NE). The public in need of services will need to go to the new facility.

Finance/Taxpayer Services to Close at Noon Wednesday for Move

The Wright County Government Center will be moving (March 21-30) to its new location at 3650 Braddock Ave. NE north of Buffalo, next to the County Jail and Justice Center. The Finance/Taxpayer Services Office will close at noon Wednesday, March 23 to begi...

Vet Services, Admin Offices Moving Wednesday

The Wright County Veteran Services Department and Administration Office will be moving into the new Government Center at 3650 Braddock Ave. NE Wednesday, March 23. The Administration Office will have very little in the way of a disruption of service. Vete...

The Turn Announces Graduation Ceremony Set for March 24

The Turn, the Wright County Adult Drug Court is pleased to announce that a graduation ceremony for Brian Johnsted and Cody Bechtold will be held at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, March 24 at the Wright County Sheriff’s Support Services Building (north side...

HHS Limited to Customers Today and Tuesday During Move

Today (Monday, March 21) and tomorrow (Tuesday, March 22), Wright County Health & Human Services will be moving into the new Government Center at 3650 Braddock Ave. NE north of Buffalo. The office will no longer being conducting business at its previo...

Storm System This Week Expected to Remain Primarily Rain

There will be a slow-moving weather system moving through Minnesota starting tonight (Monday, March 21) and continuing through Wednesday morning (March 23). The current projection from the National Weather Service is that the system will be almost exclusi...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report for the period of March 14-20. See the full report at https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=3233

Public Health Releases Weekly COVID-19 Dashboard

Wright County Public Health has released its weekly COVID-19 dashboard for the period of March 11-17 and the number of new cases over that seven-day period was the lowest since July 2021.

There were just 53 new confirmed cases over the last seven days. In ...

Government Center, HHS Center Move Starting Next Week

A reminder that the Wright County Government and Health & Human Services Center will be moving beginning next week. During the move dates, departments will be closed or extremely limited for a day or two. Here is the full schedule of move dates, notin...

MnDOT Provides Update on I-94 Construction

In a meeting yesterday (March 16), the Minnesota Department of Transportation’s Maintenance of Traffic (MOT) Task Force laid out the tentative schedule for the final year of construction on I-94 between Monticello and Clearwater.

Among the highli...

Full Daylight Savings Time Will Bring Big Changes in Winter

Yesterday (March 15), the United States Senate unanimously passed a bill to keep Daylight Savings Time throughout the year instead of moving ahead an hour in March and dropping back an hour in late-October/early November.

While good in theory, if approved ...

Sheriff's Office Releases Statement on Fatal Crash Monday

A Statement from the Wright County Sheriff’s Office

On March 14, 2022 at approximately 5:58 a.m., Wright County Sheriff's Office (WCSO) Communications received a report of a motor vehicle crash with injuries at the intersection of Co. Rd. 37 NE/E...

Former Sheriff Profiled on KARE-11 Monday

Former Wright County Sheriff Joe Hagerty was featured last night on KARE-11 TV dealing with his transition from being sheriff to a beloved paraprofessional at St. Michael Elementary School. Hagerty was profiled in Boyd Huppert’s Land of 10,000 S...

Spring Load Restrictions on County Highways, Roads Begin Friday

The Wright County Highway Department has announced that spring load weight restrictions on Wright County highways and roads will take effect at 12:01 a.m. Friday, March 18.

The restrictions are put in place annually to preserve the life of roads, which are...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report for the period of March 7-13. The full report can be seen here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=3222

Fatal Crash This Morning in Monticello Township

The Wright County Sheriff’s Department was called to a two-vehicle accident at 6:01 a.m. this morning (March 14) the intersection of CSAH 37 and Edmonson Avenue NE in Monticello Township that resulted in a fatality.

A 2013 Ford F150 was traveling...

Public Health Releases Weekly COVID-19 Dashboard

Sunday (March 13) will mark the two-year anniversary of when COVID-19 first started appearing in Minnesota and Wright County Public Health began releasing its weekly COVID-19 dashboard. The most recent dashboard covers the period of March 4-10 and the num...

Spring Road Weight Restrictions Expected to Come Soon

With temperatures expected to approach 50 degrees early next week and daytime highs above freezing all week, at some point expect the Wright County Highway Department to enact its annual spring load restrictions for the county’s road system.

The county fol...

Daylight Savings Time Begins at 1 a.m. Sunday

At 1 a.m. Sunday, March 13 Daylight Savings Time will take effect. Remember to set your clocks one hour ahead when going to bed Saturday night.

2022 Township Election Results

On Tuesday, March 8, 15 of Wright County’s 18 townships conducted elections. Township elections are not administered by the county Elections Divisions, so there was a delay for the final results to be reported.

Most elections saw one candidate fi...

Open House in Buffalo Tuesday to Discuss Hwy. 25 Reconstruction

The City of Buffalo, in partnership with the Minnesota Department of Transportation, will host an open house from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 15 in the Buffalo City Council Chambers (212 Central Ave.) to discuss the 2023 reconstruction of Hwy. 25 betw...

Extension Looking for Farm Family of the Year Nominations

By Adam Austing, University of Minnesota Extension

University of Minnesota Extension is accepting nominations for the 2022 Wright County Farm Family of the Year. 

The Farm Family Recognition Program honors farm families from throughout Minnesota fo...

Numbers to Know During Government Center Move

Starting Monday, March 21, the offices currently in the Wright County Government Center and Health & Human Services Center will be moving to their new facility at 3650 Braddock Ave. NW. Most offices will see some minor disruptions during the move, but...

Wright County Social Workers Honored with Resolution

March is National Social Work Month, which honors those who work in the field as the largest group of mental health providers in the country.

As part of National Social Work Month, the Wright County Health & Human Services Board adopted a resolution sa...

Parks & Rec Has Record-Setting Day for Campsite Reservations

Wright County Parks & Recreation was expecting a big day Monday as the 2022 campground reservation portal opened. Parks & Recreation Operations Manager Brad Harrington has become accustomed to the flood of on-line, in-person and over-the-phone res...

Wright County Master Gardeners to Hold 2022 Spring Days March 26

A Message from University of Minnesota Extension

The Wright County Master Gardeners invite you to attend our 2022 Spring Days Gardening Workshop from 8 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. Saturday, March 26 at the St. Michael-Albertville Middle School West (11343 50^th St. N...

Feds Authorize Second Round of Free COVID Home Rapid Tests

With COVID-19 approaching its second anniversary of impacting the world, the U.S. federal government is allowing households to request a second round of four COVID rapid tests at no charge. Those who have already received four tests to a mailing address c...

County Provides Closure Dates for Departments Moving to New GC

Wright County departments currently in the existing Wright County Government Center in downtown Buffalo will be doing a phased move March 21-30 to the new Government Center at 3650 Braddock Ave. NE north of Buffalo. Below is the expectation of when specif...

Township Day Coming Tomorrow

Tomorrow (Tuesday, March 8) will be Township Day in Minnesota for all of the 1,780 townships in the state.

March 8 is Township Election Day, which coincides with township annual meetings where residents gather to express their concerns/opinions about local...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report for the period of Feb. 28-March 6. To see the full report, click here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=3203

Campsite Reservations for 2022 Open at 8 a.m. Monday

A Message from Wright County Parks & Recreation

Campground reservations for modern campsites will open at 8 a.m. Monday, March 7. Be sure to have your account active and ready for that morning. Just a couple of items to note.

1. We will pull down the maps ...

MnDOT Holding Virtual Open House March 9 for Hwy. 12 Project

The Minnesota Department of Transportation will be conducting a virtual open house Wednesday, March 9 concerning the Hwy. 12 project from Delano to Independence. This project will have traffic impacts on all that live along Hwy. 12 or use it for their dai...

County Board Meetings to Remain in Current Government Center

Offices and departments in the Wright County Government Center will begin to move into the Government Center on Braddock Avenue NE in two weeks. But due to supply chain problems, the sound system and livestream/recording technology needed for Wright Count...

Public Health Releases Weekly COVID-19 Dashboard

Wright County Public Health has released its weekly COVID-19 dashboard for the period of Feb. 25-March 3 and the number of new cases continue to remain low after peaking in January into early February.

There were 162 new confirmed cases over the last seven...

Lutes Announces Intent to Run for Re-Election as County Attorney

A Message from Wright County Attorney Brian Lutes:

I am pleased to announce my intention to continue to serve as Wright County Attorney.  I’m proud to live and work in Wright County where law enforcement is appreciated and law and order ...

Find an Office in the New Government Center

The offices currently housed in the Wright County Government Center will begin moving out the new Government Center (3650 Braddock Ave. NE) starting Monday, March 21 and running through Wednesday, March 30. For those looking to access a county department ...

MnDOT Preparing for Final Year of I-94 Project

The surest sign that we’re on the back side of winter is that construction on I-94 is getting ready to resume and, as the project enters its fourth and final year in mid-April, all the remaining work is going to be taking place in Wright County....

Township Election Day Information to Know Before March 8

A Message from Wright County Elections

Tuesday, March 8 is Township Election Day. Eligible voters in Townships holding March elections will be able to participate. Below is a list of Townships holding a March election, their polling location, and polling h...

Ulrich Has Hearing Today, Trial On Schedule to Start May 16

Gregory Ulrich, the accused shooter at the Allina-Crossroads Clinic in February 2021, had a preliminary hearing today (Monday, Feb. 28).

Wright County Attorney Brian Lutes laid out the timeline that will be coming over the next three months. At today&r...

Highway Department Has Job Opening for Sign Technician/Maintenance Worker

The Wright County Highway Department has an immediate opening for a Sign Technician/Highway Maintenance Worker. There is a positive combination of life balance, flexibility and variety to the position. During the summer months, the position is four 10-hou...

Public Health Releases Weekly COVID-19 Dashboard

Wright County Public Health has released its weekly COVID-19 dashboard for the period of Feb. 18-24 and the number of cases has once again dropped significantly after peaking in January into early February. Last week’s numbers represent the lowest weekly ...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report for the period of Feb. 21-27. To see the full report, click here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=3189

County Announces Move Schedule for Government Center Departments

The offices and departments in the Wright County Government Center will be moving into their new facility in March. As with many significant building projects, the county has learned firsthand about the supply chain issues and worker shortages among the t...

Township Election Absentee Ballot Drop Box Open at Government Center

A Message from the Wright County Elections Division

The Wright County absentee ballot drop box is available to all eligible Wright County voters participating in this March’s township elections. The drop box is located on the north side of the Wr...

Fish Houses Need to Be Removed from Lakes by March 7

Anglers who were looking to spend this weekend taking their fish houses off area lakes may not have to because of a calendar anomaly this year.

In previous years, the deadline to have fish houses removed from lakes has been earlier than it will be this yea...

Lantern Cross County Ski Event Coming to Ney Park Saturday

One of the final winter recreation opportunities through Wright County Parks & Recreation will take place from 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 26 at Robert Ney Memorial Park with Lantern Cross-Country Ski.

The event is free for those who have their own skis...

Rivers of Hope Brings Awareness to Teen Dating Violence

A Message from Rivers of Hope

February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. Every year people join together for a national effort to bring awareness about the issue of teen dating violence. Our advocates work with youth experiencing this on a regular b...

DNR Has EagleCam Up and Running

For those looking for a break in their day, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has started up its EagleCam, which follows the life of a nesting pair of eagles. Currently, the female has laid two eggs that she is caring for in the nest. Eagle eg...

Sheriff's Office Bids Farewell to 35-Year Employee

In an emotional ceremony at this morning’s (Feb. 22) Wright County Board of Commissioners meeting, family and work colleagues honored Captain Annette Habisch-Peterson with a retirement plaque after more than 35 years of service to the citizens o...

MnDOT Provides Safety Tips for Dealing with Snowplows

A Message from the Minnesota Department of Transportation:

Snowplows will be out in full force again today keeping our state, county and city roadways safe. 

Snowplows have a job to do and they need room to do it. Driving too close to plows can be ...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity report for the period of Feb. 14-20. The full report can be seen here: https://mn-wrightcounty.civicplus.com/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=3178&PREVIEW=true&fbclid=IwAR1pKIFyA17g...

Early Details of 2022 County Fair Coming Out

On a day like today with accumulating and blowing throughout Wright County, the last thought many have would be the Wright County Fair coming July 20-24, 2022. However, the fair is front of mind for the organizers and, while still months away, the prepara...

Winter Storm Could Bring Biggest Snow Totals of the Season

The Wright County Highway Department is currently in the “calm before the storm” stage of preparation for what may end up being the biggest winter storm of the season to date. Wright County is included in a Winter Storm Warning area th...

Legislative Redistricting Changes Many Jurisdictions

With the announcement of Minnesota’s redistricting maps, a lot of Wright County voters will find themselves in new legislative districts. Below are all the precincts in Wright County, the district they are currently in and the district they will...

Wright Offices, Facilities to Close Monday for Presidents Day

All Wright County offices and facilities will be closed Monday, Feb. 21 in observance of the Presidents Day holiday. All offices and facilities will reopen at 8 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 22

Public Health Releases Weekly COVID-19 Dashboard

Wright County Public Health has released its weekly COVID-19 dashboard for the period of Feb. 11-17 and the number of cases has dropped significantly in the last two weeks after peaking in January into early February. Last week’s numbers represent the low...

County Extends Local Option Sales Tax Through 2032

At its Tuesday, Feb. 15 meeting, the Wright County Board of Commissioners unanimously voted to extend the county’s half-cent Local Option Sales Tax through 2032.

Wright County adopted LOST in the fall of 2017 with a five-year end date of Dec. 31, 2022. If ...

Recorder's Office See Most Plats, New Parcels in 15 Years

The Wright County Recorder’s Office had its busiest year in the better part of the last two decades in 2021. It recorded 64 plats that represent 1,978 new parcels and lots – the most in both categories since 2006 and more than three ti...

Wright County to Remain Completely in Congressional District 6

Earlier today, the Minnesota Special Redistricting Panel released the new Minnesota Congressional District maps that occur following the U.S. Census every 10 years. While there were some critical changes to the map, which become the districts for Minnesot...

All 75 State Parks Allowing Free Admission Saturday

Every year, Minnesota state parks allow free admission to all 75 state parks. The first of these free days will be Saturday, Feb. 19. The other dates will be Saturday, April 23, Saturday, June 11 and Friday, Nov. 25. To learn more about the free state par...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report for the period of Feb. 7-13. The full report can be seen here https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=3168

Public Health Releases Weekly COVID-19 Dashboard

Wright County Public Health has released its weekly COVID-19 dashboard for the period of Feb. 4-10 and, similar to the rest of the country, it appears as though the omicron variant has reached its peak and is receding.

There were 628 new confirmed cases ov...

DNR Backlogged with Processing Boat, ATV Registration Renewals

A Message from the Wright County License Center

Due to a supply line shortage for cardstock, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has experienced delays in sending out renewal statements for boats and all-terrain vehicles. Some people received the...

National Weather Service Provides Storm Update

The National Weather Service has provided an update on the winter storm that is heading toward Wright County this afternoon.

The storm is expected have heavier amounts north of Wright County with the snow totals differing depending on where you live or wor...

Wright County Expected to See Snowy Evening Commute Thursday

The Wright County Highway Department is likely going to be out on the roads tomorrow afternoon if conditions warrant for what is shaping up to be a messy evening commute.

Wright County is currently expected to get an inch or two of snow from the storm Thur...

Parks & Rec Has Openings for Buckthorn Hiking Stick Program

Wright County Parks & Recreation has filled out almost all of its winter activities from its 2021-22 schedule. One of the few programs that still has openings – and they are very limited – is a free class to cut and make a buckthor...

Deringer Reflects on Tragic Events of Feb. 9, 2021

Feb. 9, 2021 started like just about any frigid February day in Buffalo. People were moving quicker than the usual to get out of the cold air as soon as possible. Smoke was everywhere – from the tops of homes and businesses to the plume of exhau...

Application Portal for Matching Broadband Grants Now Open

Wright County has allocated a portion of American Rescue Plan (ARP) State and Local Fiscal Recovery funds to a matching grant program for broadband projects. The purpose of the grant program is to support broadband projects that provide high-speed, reliab...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its Activity Report for the period of Jan. 31-Feb. 6. The full report can be seen here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=3159

Township Election Absentee Voting Opens Today

Today (Friday, Feb. 4) is the first day of absentee voting leading up to the Tuesday, March 8 Township elections. The County election office will begin mailing ballots to voters who have requested them, and in-person absentee voting is now available at th...

DNR Deems Vehicle Can Traffic Can Take Place at Maple Lake Fishing Derby

The 47^th Annual Maple Lake Ice Fishing Derby organizers have announced that, as of this afternoon (Friday, Feb. 4), Maple Lake has achieved the threshold of 20 inches of ice required by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to have vehicles drive ...

Foster Parent Recruitment Meeting Coming Feb. 7

Wright County has a pressing need for foster parents. For those interested in learning more about child foster care, Wright County Health & Human Services will be hosting a foster care informational/recruitment meeting from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday, Fe...

Public Health Releases Weekly COVID-19 Dashboard

Wright County Public Health has released its weekly COVID-19 dashboard for the period of Jan. 27-Feb. 3.

There were 1,320 new confirmed cases over the last seven days – a slight decrease from the previous week and a hopeful sign that the Omicron variant ha...

K9 Officer Grizz Gifted a Bulletproof Vest

A Message from the Wright County Sheriff’s Office:

Wright County Sheriff’s Office K9 Grizz has received donation of body armor

Wright County Sheriff’s Office K9 Grizz has received a bullet and stab protective vest thanks to a charitable donation from non-pr...

MnDOT Announces Winner of Name a Snowplow Contest

For the second straight year, the Minnesota Department of Transportation sponsored a “Name a Snowplow” contest for all eight MnDOT districts in the state. In its inaugural event, arguably the worst name that made the list of 50 finalis...

License Center Announces Appointment Openings for Feb. 14-25

The Wright County License Center has announced that it has opened appointment slots for the period of Feb. 14-25 for driver’s license renewals. Appointments can be made for other transactions like license tabs and title transfers, but those can be handled...

CMRP Offering Placemaking Microgrants

A Message from the Central Mississippi River Regional Planning Partnership:

Love your community? Creative? Want to contribute to the region's future? Get your project together and apply for a Placemaking Microgrant now. 

Placemaking is a c...

DNR Suggest Pruning Oak Trees in Winter Months

Wright County is in a high-risk area in Minnesota for the oak wilt, a deadly disease that impacts all species of oak trees that grow in the state. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources recommends that people prune oak trees during the cold winter ...

Precinct Caucuses Held Throughout the County, State Tonight

Precinct caucuses are going to be held throughout the state tonight (Tuesday, Feb. 1). Precinct caucuses are the first step used by Minnesota’s major political parties to select the candidates and issues they will support in the upcoming electio...

Buffalo Strong Day Coming Feb. 9

On Wednesday, Feb. 9 the City of Buffalo is going to commemorate the one-year anniversary of the shooting and bombing at the Allina Crossroads Clinic with Buffalo Strong Day.

Event organizers said that Buffalo Strong Day “is our opportunity to re...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report for the period covering Jan. 24-30. The full report can be found here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=3130

Elections Office Announces Township Election Absentee Ballot Dates

A Message from the Wright County Elections Office:

Fifteen townships in Wright County will be holding Township Officer elections Tuesday, March 8. Wright County voters located in those townships (Albion, Buffalo, Chatham, Cokato, Corinna, Franklin...

Flags to Fly Half-Staff Monday in Honor of South Haven Firefighter

Flags will fly at half-staff Monday, Jan. 31 in honor of Allen Fischer, a South Haven firefighter who died earlier this month due to complications from a medical condition that occurred in the line of service.

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz made the proclamation ...

MnDOT Announces Temporary Closure on I-94 Monday

The Minnesota Department of Transportation has announced a temporary lane closure that will be coming on I-94 Monday, Jan. 31. The temporary closure of the left lane and left shoulder is expected to be begin at 7 a.m. and conclude by 3 p.m. in the eastbou...

Public Health Releases Weekly COVID-19 Dashboard

Wright County Public Health has released its weekly COVID-19 dashboard for the period of Jan. 21-27 and the omicron variant continues to produce extremely high infection numbers in Wright County.

There were 1,503 new confirmed cases over the last seven day...

MDH Unveils 10-Year Plan to Improve Quality of Life for Those with Asthma

The Minnesota Department of Health has announced a 10-year strategic plan to improve the health care and quality of life for the more than 400,000 Minnesotans who have asthma. The primary goal is to create a robust network of partnerships with health syst...

Today Is Annual Point In Time Count of Homeless in Minnesota

Today (Jan. 26) is Minnesota’s annual Point in Time (PIT) Count – an annual count of all persons experiencing homelessness in both sheltered and unsheltered situations. To learn more about the PIT Count, click here: https://www.hmismn....

Wright County in Winter Weather Warning Overnight

The National Weather Service is projecting the coldest temperatures of the winter season – and bone-numbing wind chills – for this evening (Jan. 25) heading into Wednesday. Wright County is included in a Winter Weather Warning for toni...

County Board Sets Local Option Sales Tax Public Hearing

At its meeting today (Jan. 25), the Wright County Board of Commissioners approved setting a public hearing for 9:30 a.m. at its Tuesday, Feb. 15 to discuss the future of the county’s Local Option Sales Tax (LOST).

Enacted in Wright County in late...

Parks & Rec Offering Advice in Advance of 2022 Reservations Going Live

A Message from the Wright County Parks & Recreation Department:

The time is fast approaching to reserve campsites for the summer at your favorite Wright County Campground. The three camping parks, Schroeder (near Annandale, MN), Collinwood (near Cokato...

Wright County in Winter Weather Advisory Tonight into Tuesday

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory that includes Wright County for tonight into tomorrow morning (Tuesday, Jan. 25). Temperatures are going to drop significantly tonight, with air temperatures by sunrise Tuesday expected to ...

U of M Extension Hosting Gardening from the Ground Up Webinar Series

University of Minnesota Extension educators are excited to bring you the Third Annual Gardening from the Ground Up Zoom webinar series. Free virtual workshops will take place February 22-25, 2022 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. each afternoon. The series will cover a...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report covering the period of Jan. 17-23. The full report can be seen here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=3116

Winter Storms Expected to Drop Measurable Snow Next Three Days

The Wright County Highway Department is expected to be busy over the weekend as three separate clipper systems are expected to be snow producers that, when all is said and done, could drop four to eight inches of snow on Wright County.

The first system is ...

HHS to Host Child Foster Care Information Meeting Feb. 7

Wright County has a need for foster parents. Wright County Health & Human Services will be hosting an informational meeting for those interested in learning more about child foster care. The meeting will be held from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday, Feb. 7 at...

Public Health Releases Weekly COVID-19 Dashboard

Wright County Public Health has released its weekly COVID-19 dashboard for the period of Jan. 14-20 and the omicron variant continues to make its way to Wright County.

There were 1,491 new confirmed cases over the last seven days – the most in a one-week p...

Jan. 25 Is National Poll Worker Recruitment Day

Monday, Jan. 25 will be National Poll Worker Recruitment Day. Signing up to work the polls on Election Day is an amazing way to strengthen democracy, give back to your community and ensure safe, secure and accessible elections this November. To learn more...

County Board Sets Board of Appeal and Equalization for June 13

At its Jan. 18 meeting, the Wright County Board of Commissioners sets the annual Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting to run from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, June 13. The Board of Appeal and Equalization is the opportunity for residents to appeal their a...

County Launches Redesigned Website

Wright County has redesigned its website (www.co.wright.mn.us), which launched this morning. The changes are designed to make the site more user-friendly and provide easier access to what people are looking to find. It was determined that when most people...

MnDOT Reopens I-94 in Albertville

Eastbound I-94 was closed at approximately 5 a.m. this morning when a crash occurred involving a semi truck that dropped a load of potatoes on the freeway near CSAH 19 in Albertville. Crews came out to remove the potatoes, which almost immediate froze to ...

Eastbound I-94 Closed Near CSAH 19 in Albertville

The Minnesota Department of Transportation has announced that eastbound I-94 is closed near CSAH 19 in Albertville.

At approximately 5 a.m. this morning, a truck hauling potatoes crashed and the potatoes spilled onto the roadway, almost immediately freezin...

MnDOT Looking for Input on Transportation Services Survey

A Message from the Minnesota Department of Transportation

Travelers who depend on transportation services in the Region 7W area of Benton, Sherburne, Stearns and Wright counties, are invited to take an online rider survey. Service providers in the four-cou...

Federal Government Offering Four Free COVID Tests to All

The federal government announced last week that, as of today (Wednesday, Jan. 19), a website would go live that will allow every address (home or rental property) to order four at-home rapid tests for COVID-19.

That website (www.covidtests.gov) went live w...

County Board Approves Spring Road Weight Restriction List for 2022

The Wright County Board approved the annual Spring Weight Restrictions annually placed on Wright County roads. The restrictions are made to restrict heavy vehicles from damaging road surfaces when they are their most vulnerable in the spring. The weight r...

County Board Sets 2022 Committee, Advisory Board Appointments

At today’s (Jan. 18) meeting of the Wright County Board of Commissioners, the board conducted one of its most important jobs of the year – making selections to the 17 committees and 41 advisory boards the commissioners sit on.

The commi...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report for the period of Jan. 10-16. The full report can be viewed here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=3101

County Offices and Facilities Closed Monday for MLK Day

In observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, all Wright County offices and facilities will be closed Monday, Jan. 17. All offices and facilities will re-open at 8 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 18.

MnDOT Seeking Input on Railroad Crossing Safety Plan

The Minnesota Department of Transportation is looking for public input on a survey and local comment map to increase safety at railroad crossings. MnDOT’s Rail Crossing Action Plan is designed to increase safety where rails cross roads, sidewalk...

Public Health Releases Weekly COVID-19 Dashboard

Wright County Public Health has released its weekly COVID-19 dashboard for the period of Jan. 7-13 and it would appear the omicron variant has made its way to Wright County.

There were 1,251 new confirmed cases over the last seven days – the most...

Highway Department Plows On Roads Throughout Today's Storm

Wright County Highway Department Maintenance Superintendent Nate Helgeson said that, as of 9 a.m. today, all Wright County roads and highways have had a first pass from snowplows and that the entire county fleet of plows will be out throughout the duratio...

County Attorney Announces Charges Against Three in Drug Arrest

A Message from Wright County Attorney Brian Lutes:

In less than 24 hours, agents with the Special Investigations Unit of the Wright County Sheriff’s Office arrested three individuals on 1st degree controlled substance offenses in which more than ...

License Center Announces Appointment Openings for Jan. 31-Feb. 11

The Wright County License Center has announced that it has opened appointment slots for the period of Jan. 31-Feb. 11 for driver’s license renewals. Appointments can be made for other transactions like license tabs and title transfers, but those can be ha...

Highway Trucks On the Road This Afternoon, Evening In Advance of Storm

The Wright County Highway Department has announced that, in advance of the snowfall expected Friday (Jan. 14), the department will be pre-treating county highways and roads throughout the afternoon and into the evening. County Highway Maintenance Superint...

Snow System Rolling Through Wright County Friday

The National Weather Service has begun issuing advisories for winter weather coming Wright County’s way on Friday, Jan. 14.

While Wright County is expected to be spared the worst of the storm system – the current track has western and s...

A Pair of Lane Closures Coming Thursday in Clearwater/Hasty Area

The Minnesota Department of Transportation has announced a pair a lane closures for Thursday, Jan. 13 on I-94 in the Clearwater/Hasty area of I-94.

The first will be a short-term lane closure in the westbound lanes between County Road 7 east of Clearwater ...

Dates Set for Ulrich Pretrial Hearing, Jury Trial

Wright County Attorney Brian Lutes has announced the schedule for the trial of Gregory Ulrich, who will stand trial for the Feb. 9 shooting and bombing of the Allina Crossroads Clinic in Buffalo.

There will be a contested omnibus pretrial hearing at 9 a.m....

MnDOT Announces Three Lane Closures on I-94 for Wednesday

The Minnesota Department of Transportation has announced three areas of repair work that will be done that will reduce the available lanes of traffic on I-94 in Wright County Wednesday, Jan. 12.

The first is a westbound lane closure between Hwy. 8 in Hasty...

Extension Reminding Farmers to Renew Pesticide Applicator Certification

Source:  Adam Austing, University of Minnesota Extension

Farmers with Private Pesticide Applicator certifications (PPA) that expire on March 1, 2022, will need to renew that license for the 2022 growing season. The process to renew your license re...

MnDOT Releases 2022 Construction Project Schedule

There’s a saying that goes that there are two seasons in Minnesota – winter and construction season. We’re feeling the sting of winter at the moment, but road construction projects are right around the corner.

The Minnesota Department of Transportation has...

Sheriff's Office Releases Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report for the period of Jan. 3-9. The full report can be seen here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=3086

County Bids Farewell to Employee of 41 Years

Terrie Piram showed up for work today (Friday, Jan. 7) as office manager in the Wright County Planning & Zoning office much in the same way she has for just short of the last 15,000 days – a span of 41 years. What made today different was it would be ...

Parks & Rec Highlights Winter Experiences at Bertram Park

Bertram Chain of Lakes Regional Park is quickly becoming a top winter destination in Wright County. Location is key, and this wonderful park is located on the southwest side of Monticello and a little more than a mile off I-94. With easy access, the park ...

Husom Named Chair of Highway 55 Corridor Coalition

Wright County Commissioner Christine Husom was selected as Chairperson of the Highway 55 Coordinator Coalition for 2022. The coalition celebrated its 20^th anniversary in December. The mission of the coalition is to secure right-of-way and related infrastr...

Public Health Releases Weekly COVID-19 Dashboard

Wright County Public Health has released its weekly COVID-19 dashboard for the period of Dec. 31-Jan. 6.

There were 742 new confirmed cases over the last six days, along with 18 cases that required hospitalization, three cases that required treatment in an...

Wright County In A Wind Chill Advisory Through Saturday Morning

The National Weather Service has issued a Wind Chill Advisory for much of the state, including Wright County through 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 8. Temperatures will not get above zero today and air temperatures in the early morning hours of Friday, Jan. 7 are...

Park & Rec Releases Statement on Sharing It's Trail System

Wright County Parks & Recreation has issued a release regarding the parks trail system and how skiers, snowshoers and bike riders can share the trails while respecting the other trail users. To see the full release, click here: https://www.co.wright.m...

Minnesota Had Most Driving-Related Deaths Since 2007 Last Year

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety has issued a press release summarizing the traffic deaths that took place in 2021. There were 497 traffic deaths – the most in a year since 2007. This is a significant increase – from 2016-2020...

Highway 5 in Annandale to Close Today for Emergency Railroad Track Repair

Starting at 9 a.m. today (Jan. 6), the Canadian Pacific Railroad will be closing Highway 5 (Excelsior Avenue N.), just south of Highway 55 in Annandale for an emergency track repair. Work is scheduled to be completed by 3 p.m. today. This is expected to b...

Husom Named County Board Chair for 2022

At its first meeting of 2022 on Tuesday (Jan. 4), the Wright County Board of Commissioners elected Christine Husom as board chair. Husom, who doesn’t intend to run for re-election in November, was selected board chair for the second time in three years.

Wh...

U of M Extension Offering Summer Internship Program

By Karen Johnson, University of Minnesota Extension

Each summer, the University of Minnesota Extension welcomes undergraduate students interested in crops, livestock, horticulture, natural resources or communicating science to gain experience through inter...

License Center Announces Appointment Openings for Jan. 18-28

The Wright County License Center has announced that it has opened appointment slots for the period of Jan. 18-28 for driver’s license renewals. Appointments can be made for other transactions like license tabs and title transfers, but those can ...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report covering the period of Dec. 27-Jan. 2. The full report can be seen here: http://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=3071

Opportunities Available to View County Board Meetings

For those interested in knowing more about the actions taken by the Wright County Board of Commissioners, there are ways to keep up to date on the decisions made at the county board level.

Every Friday before a county meeting, the agenda and accompanying m...

MnDOT Increases Load Restrictions for the Central Frost Zone

The Minnesota Department of Transportation has announced that, as of 12:01 a.m. Friday, Dec. 31, winter load limits for vehicles will be increased by 10 percent on unrestricted highways in the Central frost zone, which includes all of Wright County.

Vehicl...

National Weather Service Issues Dangerous Cold Advisory

The National Weather Service has issued a warning for dangerously cold temperatures this weekend. Air temperatures in Wright County Friday night (New Year’s Eve into New Year’s Day) are expected to reach between 15-20 degrees below zer...

Public Health Releases Weekly COVID-19 Dashboard

Wright County Public Health has released its weekly COVID-19 dashboard for the period of Dec. 23-29. Due to a technical issue, the dashboard on the county website is unable to be updated. The problem is being worked on and may be fixed by later today.

Over...

County Offices and Facilities Closed Friday

All Wright County offices and facilities will be closed Friday, Dec. 31 in observance of the New Year’s holiday. All offices and facilities will reopen at 8 a.m. Monday, Jan. 3.

Wright County EDA Seeking At-Large Member for EDA Board

The Wright County Economic Development Authority currently has an opening for one at-large board member. Those interested in applying must be residents of Wright County. The term for the at-large board member is six years. Candidates must be experienced i...

County Seeking Quotes for Tree Removal in Stockholm Township

The Wright County Division of Agriculture and Drainage is seeking quotes for the removal of trees and other wood species for a section of Joint Ditch 15 in Stockholm Township, totaling 1,300 linear feet. All specified work must be completed by Friday, Mar...

Highway Trucks on the Road All Day Before Temperatures Plunge

The National Weather Service is warning those who will be out on the roads or traveling any distance in Minnesota to be aware of conditions that will be going from bad to worse in the coming days.

A storm system that is moving its way across the state star...

Deputy Involved in Motor Vehicle Crash in St. Michael

An announcement from the Wright County Sheriff’s Office:

At approximately 7 p.m. Thursday, December 23, 2021, a Deputy with the Wright County Sheriff’s Office was responding to an unknown medical call on the 400 block of Main Street Nor...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report covering the period of Dec. 20-26. The full report can be seen here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=3054

The Turn Announces Graduation Ceremony Set for Jan. 6

The Turn, the Wright County Adult Drug Court, is pleased to announce the graduation of Thomas Nickleby from the program. Established in 2016, The Turn is a voluntary program designed to hold participants accountable for their actions and providing with a ...

All County Offices Closed Friday, Dec. 24

All Wright County offices and facilities will be closed Friday, Dec. 24 in observance of the Christmas holiday. All departments and offices will reopen at 8 a.m. Monday, Dec. 27

Public Health Releases Weekly COVID-19 Dashboard

Wright County Public Health has released its weekly COVID-19 dashboard for the period of Dec. 17-22. Due to lack of staffing in Public Health of the holidays, the weekly counts for this week and next week will be released at the end of the day Wednesday, ...

Filing for Township Elections Opens Tuesday, Dec. 28

On Tuesday, Dec. 28, the candidate filing period will open for 15 Wright County township for the March 8 election. The candidate filing will end Tuesday, Jan. 11.

To file for a position, an affidavit of candidacy needs to be submitted to the local town cle...

DNR Issues Guidelines for Being Out on Ice

With colder temperatures arriving, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is reminding people about the different ice depths needed to walk or drive on ice-covered lakes. To learn more about this process and ice depths, click here: https://www.dnr....

Wright County Jail Graduates Three from Food Service Program

A Message from the Wright County Sheriff’s Office:

Recidivism continues to be a major issue for the United States correctional system. Studies have shown that education and job training have significant impact on reducing repeat offenses. As a re...

County Board Approves 2022 MCPP Participation

At its meeting this morning (Dec. 21), the Wright County Board of Commissioners approved participation in Minnesota Housing Finance Agency’s Minnesota Cities Participation Program. Wright County has been part of MCPP since 2008 – a pro...

Passport Fee to Raise by $20 Next Week

The U.S. State Department announced Monday (Dec. 20) that beginning Monday, Dec. 27, fees are going to go up for passports – raising the price of each $20 for its “security surcharge fee.”

Passports book prices vary by age. Tr...

Winter Storm Could Hit Wright County Tuesday During A.M. Commute

While the weather for Christmas weekend travel in Minnesota is expected to be good, the same likely won’t be the case tomorrow morning (Tuesday, Dec. 21). Depending on the track of a storm that is going to begin overnight in western Minnesota an...

U of M Extension Hosting 3-Part Pollinator Webinar in February

By Tarah Young, University of Minnesota Extension Educator

Are you interested in bees and pollinators, but you don’t know where to begin? Check out thisupcoming webinar series to help guide you in your apiary ambitions. University of Minnesota Ex...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report covering the period of Dec. 13-19. The full report can be seen here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=3041

Commissioners Competing at WCHS Festival of Trees

As part of its annual Festival of Trees, the Wright County Historical Society is running a competition among trees designed by Wright County Commissioners. The Historical Society has released a video of the four participating commissioners – Chr...

State Announces Supply Chain Issue with License Tabs

Over the last two years, we’ve all had to deal with supply chain disruptions, but one that is currently impacting Minnesotans who need to renew their license tabs or cab cards in 2022. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety has released a sta...

Public Health Releases Weekly COVID-19 Dashboard

Wright County Public Health has released its weekly COVID-19 dashboard. Over the past week, there were 573 new cases reported, with 27 hospitalizations, four cases that required treatment in an Intensive Care Unit and eight deaths. Since the pandemic bega...

License Bureau Announces Appointment Openings for Jan. 3-14

As of 8 a.m. today (Friday, Dec. 17) the Wright County License Center has announced the opening of approximately 600 appointment slots for driver’s license renewals covering the period of Jan. 3-14. Appointments can be made on the county website...

Highway Department Preparing for A Potentially Wild Night

When there is a weather emergency in December, the Wright County Highway Department typically has a plan in place before the storm arrives. But, with the unique set of circumstances coming this evening – severe thunderstorms, dangerously high wi...

Unprecedented Weather Day Expected Today

The National Weather Service and Wright County Emergency Management are preparing for an unprecedented series of winter weather events today (Dec. 15), some that will impact Wright County.

Dense fog in enveloping much of the area this morning as temperatur...

Stearns County Sheriff's Office Releases Statement About I-94 Incident

Anyone who was on I-94 yesterday afternoon between St. Michael and Hasty were aware of a massive traffic backup in the eastbound lanes of I-94. It was the result of a shooting in St. Cloud that led to a high-speed chase on I-94 that was initiated by Stear...

Random Drug Testing Request for Proposals

Wright County Health & Human Services has put forth a Request for Proposals seeking qualified applicants to provide random drug testing for clients of Wright County Health & Human Services. Please review the Request for Proposals (RFP) document fo...

Annie's Project Bringing Females in Agriculture Together

By Katie Drewitz, University of Minnesota Extension

University of Minnesota Extension is committed to supporting women in agriculture and the unique opportunities and challenges they face. Our collaboration with Annie’s Project brings these women...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report covering the period of the Dec. 6-12. The full report can be viewed here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=3029

CSAH 9 East of Waverly Lake to Be Closed to Traffic Tuesday, Dec. 14

A Message from the Wright County Highway Department:

On Tuesday, Dec. 14, CSAH 9 on the east side of Waverly Lake will be closed between North Shore Drive and Lake Avenue. Bear Care Tree Service and Wright County High Department maintenance staff will be r...

Highway Department Preparing for First Major Snow Event of the Season

The Wright County Highway Department is preparing for the first major winter storm of the season and all 26 plow drivers will be ready to get out on the roads beginning this afternoon and working throughout the overnight hours.

The amount of snow that come...

MnDOT Provides Final 2021 Update on I-94 Construction

The Minnesota Department of Transportation has provided an update on the I-94 project from Maple Grove to Clearwater, which has largely finished its work for the winter.

MnDOT reports that all lanes and ramps in Wright County between Highway 241 in St. Mic...

Wright County Public Health Releases Weekly COVID-19 Dashboard

Wright County Public Health has released its weekly COVID-19 dashboard for the period of Dec. 3-9. Minnesota has had one of the highest rates of new cases in the country over the last few weeks and Wright County was no exception. There were 879 new cases ...

Ice Fish House Licenses Can Use 'Fast Pass' Option at License Center

A Message from the Wright County License Center:

Those looking to get fish house licenses can use the “fast pass” at the Wright County Government Center to purchase their license. No appointment is necessary for the purchase of ice fish...

Friday Storm Now Expected to Impact Wright County

The National Weather Service has updated the track of a winter storm expected to arrive Friday afternoon (Dec. 10) to now include Wright County. As recently as yesterday, the storm track was expected to remain 50-60 miles south of Wright County, but the l...

MPCA Issues Air Quality Warning Through This Afternoon

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has issued a Poor Air Quality Warning for much of eastern and central Minnesota for the rest of today – with Wright County directly in the middle of the warning area.

The Air Quality Index (AQI) is at the Ye...

Truth in Taxation Hearing Tomorrow Night (Dec. 9)

The Wright County Board of Commissioners will be conducting its annual Truth in Taxation hearing at 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 9 in the Wright County Government Center in downtown Buffalo. At that time, County Administrator Lee Kelly will make a presentation r...

State's Driver Testing Station Reopens in Buffalo

As of this morning, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety has reopened the drivers testing station in Buffalo (15 1^st Avenue South). The testing station had been closed since March of 2020 due to COVID-19 and will be open two days a week. Tuesdays wil...

Parks & Rec Seeking Public Input On Comprehensive Master Plan

The Wright County Parks & Recreation Department is seeking the public’s help in providing input on the draft of the department’s Comprehensive System Master Plan. This plan will set the priorities and future of the Wright County pa...

County Offices to Move to New Government Center in Mid-January

In the coming weeks, those entering the Wright County Government Center in downtown Buffalo or the Health & Human Services Center at the intersection of Highways 55 and 25 will be seeing signage informing them of the move from those two buildings to t...

CSAH 3 Closed South of Hwy. 55 for Emergency Railroad Track Repair

A Message from the Wright County Highway Department

The Wright County Highway Department has been informed that Canadian Pacific Railroad has closed CSAH 3 at the railroad crossing south of Highway 55 in Southside Township today (Monday, Dec. 6) to make an...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report for the period of Nov. 29-Dec. 5. The full report can be seen here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=3013

WCSO: Suspect in Custody Following Event This Morning

A Message from the Wright County Sheriff's Office:

At approximately 11:30 a.m. today (Dec. 3), the Wright County Sheriff’s Office responded to a domestic disturbance in the area of Highway 55 and Nevens Ave. NW in Southside Township. The...

Public Health Releases Weekly COVID-19 Dashboard

Wright County Public Health has released its weekly COVID-19 dashboard. Because there wasn’t a dashboard released last week due to the Thanksgiving holiday, the numbers reflect a two-week period instead of a seven-day accounting.

Over the last tw...

MnDOT Announces Nightly Lanes Closures on I-94 in Wright County

The Minnesota Department of Transportation has announced that there will be intermittent nightly lane closures on I-94 in both directions and between Highway 241 and CSAH 19 between St. Michael and Albertville. The nightly closures will run through Tuesda...

MnDOT Returning For Another 'Name That Snowplow' Contest

Last year, the Minnesota Department of Transportation initiated a contest called Name a Snowplow, with the eight MnDOT regions all having a plow named by Minnesotans. MnDOT didn’t know what the response would be, but it was inundated with thousa...

U of M Extension Offering Food Safety Webinars In Winter Months

by Annalisa Hultberg, University of Minnesota Extension

Join University of Minnesota Extension and farmer trainer partners for the following on-farm food safety educational opportunities this winter. Dust off that food safety plan, bring your questions, an...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its Activity Report for the period covering Nov. 22-28. The full report can be seen here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=3003

County Offices and Facilities Closed Thursday and Friday

All Wright County offices and facilities will be closed Thursday, Nov. 24 and Friday, Nov. 25 in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday.

All offices, departments and facilities will reopen at 8 a.m. Monday, Nov. 29

Final Culvert Project Completed for 2021 Construction Season

Molnau Trucking, LLC. has finalized their work on the county ditch 10 project along CSAH 30, just one mile east of CSAH 5 and the highway is now open.

This final county ditch 10 project wraps up the CD10 culvert replacement projects for 2021 on Wright Coun...

Audubon Society to Conduct Annual Christmas Bird Count Jan. 1

The National Audubon Society invites birdwatchers to participate in the longest-running community science, the annual Audubon Christmas Count (CBC). On Saturday, Jan. 1, 2022, birders and nature enthusiasts in northern Wright County will take part in this...

U of M Extension Explains Indoor Hydroponic Winter Gardening

By Natalie Hoidal and Adam Austing, University of Minnesota Extension

As our gardens freeze over, many of us still have the gardening bug. Hydroponics, or growing plants in water, is a great way to keep growing fresh greens all winter long indoors. You can...

Public Health to Host COVID-19 Booster Shot Clinic Dec. 16

Wright County Public Health has announced that it will be hosting a vaccine clinic from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 16 at the Highway Department Building (3600 Braddock Avenue NE) to administer the Moderna booster shot. Individuals can now schedule an...

Deadline to File for Homestead Approaching

A Message from the Wright County Assessor’s Office

The December 31, 2021 deadline to file for homestead for taxes payable in 2022 is quickly approaching. If your property is not currently homesteaded, find out if you may qualify and what you must do to cha...

DNR Offering Winter Outdoors Webinars on an Array of Topics

From now through the end of February, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources will be offering free lunch hour webinars on a variety of outdoor topics. The webinars will be held at noon every Wednesday and are free to sign up for on the DNR website....

Drivers Advised to Be Aware of Increased Vehicle-Deer Accidents

Drivers are being warned to be aware of deer on the move, as deer-vehicle accidents have been on a steady climb since the end of September in Wright County.

Wright County Sheriff Sean Deringer said a combination of factors lead to an increase in vehicle-de...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report for the period of Nov. 15-21. The full report can be seen here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=2993

DPS Offering Advice in Winter Driving Safety

All week (Nov. 15-19) the Minnesota Department of Public Safety has been promoting Winter Hazard Awareness Week. Today is the final day of the campaign and the focus is on winter driving. Topics covered include having a winter survival kit in your vehicle...

Wright County Public Health Releases Weekly COVID-19 Dashboard

Wright County Public Health has released its weekly COVID-19 dashboard for the period of Nov. 11-18. Due to the Veterans Day holiday, in which numbers were not reported, this week’s dashboard contains eight days of reporting instead of seven. Mi...

License Center Announces Appointment Openings for Nov. 29-Dec. 30

The Wright County License Center has announced that, as of 8 a.m. today (Friday, Nov. 19) more than 1,000 appointment slots have opened for renewing driver’s licenses – covering the period of Monday, Nov. 29 through Thursday, Dec. 30. ...

Wright County Currently Tied for 69th Place in COVID Case Rate in U.S.

The New York Times conducted a study of the highest case rates of COVID-19 in the 3,006 counties in the United States. As of Wednesday, the New York Times' list of the 100 counties with the highest case rates in the country (counties with fewer t...

Winter Hazard Awareness Week Addresses Indoor Winter Safety

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety is sponsoring Winter Hazard Awareness Week Nov. 15-19. Today’s topic is Indoor Winter Safety and includes discussions about carbon monoxide, carbon monoxide alarms, radon and mold. To learn more about th...

Assessor, Taxpayer Services Departments Discuss Property Tax Discrepancy in Buffalo

A Message from the Wright County Assessor’s and Taxpayer Services Departments:

The annual Truth in Taxation notices were mailed out to Wright County property owners Monday, Nov. 15. Due to a technical glitch, property owners in the City of Buffal...

Winter Hazard Awareness Week Addresses Indoor Fire Safety

This week (Nov. 15-19) the Minnesota Department of Public Safety is sponsoring Winter Hazard Awareness Week. Today’s (Wednesday, Nov. 17) topic is winter home and fire safety. This includes safety checklists for your home and for after a storm, ...

Highway Department Provides Updates on Two County Road Projects

The Wright County Highway Department has provided a couple of project updates for County Road 118 (Fenning Avenue)/CSAH 37 in Monticello and CSAH 30 in Stockholm Township.

The County Road 118 (Fenning Avenue)/CSAH 37 project has been completed for the seas...

U of M Extension Offering Cottage Food Producer Workshop

By Suzanne Driessen, University of Minnesota Extension food safety educator

Do you get rave reviews on your homemade breads, cakes and cookies? Are family and friends asking to buy your yummy home canned salsa and pickles? Have you considered starting a fo...

Outdoor Weather Today's Topic for Winter Weather Awareness Week

As part of the Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s Winter Weather Awareness Week (Nov. 15-19). The topic for today (Tuesday, Oct. 16) is outdoor safety. This topic includes thin ice, keeping children safe, access to functional needs, winter ...

MnDOT Provides Update on I-94 Construction

The Minnesota Department of Transportation has announced that from 12:01 a.m. to 5 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 17 the eastbound lane of I-94 between CSAH 37 and Hwy. 241 will be closed intermittently for up to 15 minutes while overnight construction is going on....

Winter Hazard Awareness Week Addresses Winter Storms

This week, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety is promoting Winter Hazard Awareness Week Nov. 15-19. Today’s topic is winter storms, including how winter storms form, warnings and alerts that come in advance of a storm, issues related to extreme col...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report for the period of Nov. 8-14. The full report can be found here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=2977

DPS to Sponsor Winter Hazard Awareness Week Nov. 15-19

With the potential for the first significant snow of the winter season hitting Wright County over the weekend, the timing seems appropriate that the Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) has designated Nov. 15-19 as Winter Hazard Awareness Week in M...

Wright County Public Health Releases Weekly COVID-19 Dashboard

Wright County Public Health has released its weekly COVID-19 dashboard for the period of Nov. 5-10. Due to the Veterans Day holiday, this week’s dashboard contains six days of reporting instead of seven. There were 681 new cases reported in Wrig...

County Offices and Facilities Closed Thursday

All Wright County offices and facilities will be closed Thursday, Nov. 11 in observance of Veterans Day. All offices and facilities will reopen at 8 a.m. Friday, Nov. 12. Wright County would like to express its gratitude to the men and women who have defe...

CSAH 5 Construction Expected to Reopen to Traffic Thursday, Nov. 11

The construction project on CSAH 5 on the border of Stockholm Township and Victor Township is in its final stages. The segment of road has been closed since Tuesday, Oct. 26 for a culvert replacement. The culvert replacement has been completed and the seg...

Segment of Hwy. 241 in St. Michael to Close Tomorrow (Nov. 10)

The Minnesota Department of Transportation has announced that Highway 241 from Oakwood Parkway to O’Day Avenue in St. Michael will close starting tomorrow morning (Wednesday, Nov. 10) to repair the railroad track crossing. The segment of Highway 241 is ex...

U of M Extension Offers Tips for Bringing Houseplants Back Inside

By Julie Weisenhorn and Adam Austing, University of Minnesota Extension

We have had a very nice, very long fall with warm days and cool nights. If you are like me, your houseplants spend the summer outside. By now, you’ve most likely brought them...

MnDOT Warning About Frosty, Icy Bridge Decks, Overpasses and Ramps

With a wintery mix of precipitation expected later this week, the Minnesota Department of Transportation is reminding drivers to start taking precautions when you have frosty bridge decks, overpasses and ramps. Bridge decks are especially a problem becaus...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff's Office has released its weekly Activity Report for the period of Nov. 1-7. The full report can be seen here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=2968

Monticello Indoor Farmers Market Returns Saturday

The Monticello Indoor Farmers Market returns from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. tomorrow (Saturday, Nov. 6) at the Monticello Community Center.

Once a month vendors will set up inside the Center on the second Saturday of the month, including Dec. 11, Jan. 8, Feb. 12 a...

State Veterans Day Program to Be Conducted Virtually Nov. 11

The official State of Minnesota Veterans Day program will be held virtually again this year. A 30-minute recorded program will be available starting at 8 a.m. on Veterans Day (Thursday, Nov. 11) The Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) invites ...

Wright County Public Health Releases Weekly COVID-19 Dashboard

Wright County Public Health has released its weekly COVID-19 dashboard for the period of Oct. 29-Nov. 4. There were 818 new cases reported in Wright County – the most cases reported in a seven-day period since Dec. 4-10, 2020. In addition, there...

Daylight Savings Time Ends Early Sunday Morning

A reminder that Daylight Savings Time ends in the early morning hours of Sunday, Nov. 7. Be sure to turn the clocks back an hour and enjoy the extra hour of sleep you will be getting – even though having the sun go down before 5 p.m. will requir...

U of M Extension Conducting Farmland Rental Workshops

By Adam Austing, University of Minnesota Extension

Landlords, farmers and agri-business professionals should make plans to attend one of the informative in-person meetings being held across Minnesota in November and December. These free meetings are being ...

National OSHA Implements Vaccination Regulations for Businesses with 100+ Employees

This morning (Thursday, Oct. 4), the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued an emergency temporary standard (ETS) aimed to protect more than 84 million workers from COVID-19. In a release from OSHA...

Final Touches Being Put on Otsego Park Streambank Restoration

A Message from Wright County Parks & Recreation

Over the last three years Wright County Parks & Recreation in partnership with the Wright Soil and Water Conservation District has been planning a streambank restoration project at Otsego County Park ...

Thursday, Nov. 4 Is the Last Day for Citizen Input on Local Option Sales Tax

A Message from the Wright County Highway Department

Wright County residents have until Thursday, Nov. 4 to provide input in the county’s decision whether or not to continue its Local Option Sales Tax (LOST) by going to the Virtual Online...

Santa Coming to Bertram Park Dec. 4

Wright County Parks & Recreation has announced that pre-registration has opened for families to visit with Santa Claus at Bertram Chain of Lakes Regional Park from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will be a professional photographer on hand, horse drawn wagon ...

All School Referendum Special Election Questions Tuesday Failed

Four Wright County school district held special election referendums Tuesday, Nov. 2 and all ballot questions failed to pass. Here is a review of the four referendums. The count remains unofficial until verified.

Annandale (Independent School District 836)...

License Center Camera System Down

The Wright County License Center has announced that the program that captures photos for Driver’s License and ID card applications is currently not working. Applications requiring a new photo cannot be processed until the issue is resolved. The ...

"Don't Veer for Deer" Campaign Hitting Its Full Swing

With the calendar flipping to November, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) wants Minnesota residents to be aware of its “Don’t Veer for Deer” campaign.

November and December are consistently the worst months for d...

Four School Districts to Hold Special Elections Tuesday, Nov. 2

Tomorrow (Tuesday, Nov. 2) four Wright County school districts will be conducting special elections – Annandale (Independent School District 876), Delano (ISD 879), Monticello (ISD 882) and St. Michael-Albertville (ISD 885).

Below you will find the pertine...

DPS Offering Advice to Help Prevent Winter Heating Fires

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety is offering advice to help avoid heating equipment fires as the cold descends on Minnesota and the winter heating season begins. To learn more, click here: https://dps.mn.gov/blog/Pages/20211101-heating-season-beg...

MnDOT Provides Update on I-94 Construction

A message from the Minnesota Department of Transportation:

As the process of wrapping up the 2021 portion of the I-94 construction project, the Minnesota Department of Transportation is still having closures and detours as part of the project.

This week fro...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report for the period of Oct. 25-31. To See the full report, click here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=2951

Hunters May Have to Have Tested for CWD This Weekend

Saturday, Nov. 6 marks the opening of the 2021 firearms deer hunting season and, depending on where you hunt, if you shoot a deer on opening weekend, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources will require that the deer be brought to a sampling station...

Hiring Crisis Becoming A Concern for Sheriff's Office

Over the past year, several occupations have found it difficult to find staffing to keep their businesses open. Many have resorted to reduced hours or been forced to shut down because, as hard as they may try, people aren’t answering the &ld...

Buffalo Strong Accepting Donations for Construction of a Memorial Statue

A Message from Buffalo Strong

“Though months have passed, we have NOT FORGOTTEN the life lost, the warriors who survived, the heroes who emerged in the wake of the Allina Crossroads tragedy. Buffalo Strong is joining with the county, city, and th...

WCSO Dispatchers Receive Award for Actions During Allina Shooting

Earlier this week, the dispatchers in the Wright County Sheriff’s Office were presented with the Making a Difference Award from the Minnesota Chapter of the Association of Public Safety Communications Officials/National Emergency Number Associat...

Hunters Can Get 'Fast Pass' to Get Deer Hunting Licenses at License Center

The Wright County License Center has announced that individuals looking to get hunting licenses in advance of next week’s opening of deer hunting season will get a “fast pass” at the indoor location in the Wright County Gover...

Wright County Public Health Releases Weekly COVID-19 Dashboard

Wright County Public Health has released its weekly COVID-19 dashboard for the period of Oct. 22-28. There were 532 new cases reported in Wright County – a slight increase from the previous week (498), but down from the prior two weeks of report...

Highway Department Wins Award for CSAH 8 Construction Project

The Wright County Highway Department was the recipient of a prestigious award from the Minnesota Asphalt Paving Association (MAPA) as a road project from 2020 was deemed the best in the state by a MAPA review panel.

Wright County Highway Engineer Virgil Ha...

U of M Extension Offering Goat and Sheep Feeding Webinar

By Colleen Carlson - University of MN Extension

Due to drought conditions across much of Minnesota, many goat and sheep producers will find it necessary to take a closer look at the economics, nutritional content and availability of feedstuffs to better ma...

Parks & Rec Has Openings for Fall/Winter Camping at Two County Parks

It may seem like camping season is over, but Wright County Parks & Recreation wants outdoors types to know that there is also camping in the fall and winter at two of its most popular parks – Stanley Eddy Park and Bertram Chain of Lakes Regi...

County Celebrates Career of Chief Deputy Attorney Brian Asleson

At the Oct. 26 meeting of the Wright County Board of Commissioners, friends and co-workers had the opportunity to say goodbye to Chief Deputy Attorney Brian Asleson, who announced his retirement after 37 years working for the Wright County Attorney&rs...

License Center Has Numerous Openings to Renew Driver's Licenses

The Wright County License Center would like to remind those looking to renew driver’s licenses that there are currently openings available from now until Wednesday, Nov. 24 (the day before Thanksgiving). Instead of the typical two-week window to...

Mining Request Removed from Thursday's Planning Commission Agenda

A Message from Wright County Planning & Zoning

Wright County has received a completed citizens’ petition requesting that an Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW) be done for the MBE, Inc. mining request at the northeast corner of the inter...

Finance & Taxpayer Services Office to Close for Two Hours Wednesday

Wright County’s Office of Finance and Taxpayer Services will have its public window closed from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 27. The closure is so staff can attend the funeral of a co-worker who passed away last week.

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its Activity Report for the period of Oct. 18-24. The full report can be viewed here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=2935

Highway Department to Host LOST Open House Wednesday

A Message from the Wright County Highway Department

In 2017, the Wright County Board of Commissioners approved a 0.5% Local Option Sales Tax (LOST) for transportation projects to help cover the transportation funding gap for transportation. The current LOS...

MnDOT Announces Weekend Ramp Closure on I-94/Hwy. 101

The Minnesota Department of Transportation has provided an update of road construction on the I-94 project between Clearwater to Maple Grove.

Starting at 10 p.m. tonight (Friday, Oct. 22) through noon Sunday, Oct. 24 the ramp from eastbound I-94 to Hwy. 10...

Public Health Releases Weekly COVID-19 Dashboard

Wright County Public Health has released its weekly COVID-19 dashboard. Over the last week, there were 498 new confirmed cases, a drop of almost 200 from the previous week. There were 21 cases that required hospitalization, four that required treatment in...

Community Health Surveys Being Mailed Out This Week

Wright County and its dedicated community partners are in the process be conducting a community health survey.  

Starting this week, some residents across Wright County will receive a community health survey by mail. Four local organizations are w...

Portion of CSAH 5 to Close Tuesday for Culvert Replacement

A Message from the Wright County Highway Department

Construction on a culvert on CSAH 5 on the border of Stockholm Township and Victor Township is scheduled to begin Tuesday, Oct. 26 and will require a traffic detour.

The work will be done by Molnau Truckin...

A Pair of Prescription Drug Take-Back Days Scheduled Saturday

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office, Wright County Health & Human Services and MEADA (Mentorship, Education and Drug Awareness) will be sponsoring a pair of Prescription Drug Take Back Day events from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 23.

The c...

County Board Authorizes Thursday as Domestic Violence Awareness Day

At its Oct. 19 meeting, the Wright County Board of Commissioners heard a presentation from Wright County 2021 Emerging Leaders, 12 county employees from several different departments that take on a project each year to better the community. This year&...

DVS Announces Plan to Re-Open Buffalo Testing Station

In its weekly update today, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s Driver and Vehicle Services Division announced its plan to re-open several driver testing centers, including the one in Buffalo.

The Buffalo site is scheduled to open in Dece...

DNR Provides Field Reports In Advance of Deer Hunting Opener

The 2021 Minnesota firearms deer season is less than three weeks from opening (Saturday, Nov. 6) and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is providing field reports on deer numbers from throughout the state. To see the full report, click here: ht...

U of M Extension Offering Advice to Farmers About Storing Hay

By Joe Armstrong, DVM, University of Minnesota Extension educator, cattle production systems

Whether there is an excess of hay or a shortage in your system, efficiently feeding your hay can drastically affect the success of your operation.

Hay is expensive,...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its Activity Report for the period of Oct. 11-17. The full report can be viewed here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=2923

The Turn Celebrates National Recovery Month

The Turn, the Wright County Adult Drug Court, celebrated National Recovery Month in September by recognizing the gains made by those in recovery. 

Participants of The Turn were provided with a list of meetings, recovery events and activities that ...

Four Area Health Systems, Wright County Public Health Release Joint Statement

Four area hospital systems – Allina Health Buffalo Hospital, CentraCare, Ridgeview and Wayzata Children’s Clinic – and Wright County Public Health have released a joint statement regarding the reduction of the spread of COVID...

Highway Department Has Update on Co. Rd. 118/CSAH 37 Project

A Message from the Wright County Highway Department

Update on County Road 118 (Fenning Avenue)/CSAH 37 Construction

Work on the County Road 118 (Fenning Avenue)/CSAH 37 project is progressing.  Paving of the bituminous surface at the School Bouleva...

Public Health Releases Weekly COVID-19 Dashboard

Wright County Public Health has released its weekly COVID-19 dashboard. While the number of new cases remains as high as they have been since December 2020, for the first time in nine weeks, the number of new reported cases went down from the previous wee...

License Center Announces Expansion of Appointments, Walk-In Hours

The Wright County License Center has announced a pair of changes as it prepares for its transition from its location in the current Wright County Government Center to the new Government Center.

At 8 a.m. Friday, Oct. 15, appointments for the period of Oct....

MnDOT Announces Timeline for I-94 Project

The Minnesota Department of Transportation has provided an update on the construction on I-94 in Wright County for the segments of road between St. Michael and Albertville and Monticello to Clearwater.

St. Michael to Albertville

• Substantial completion by No...

Parks & Rec Announces Winter Activity Schedule

The Wright County Parks & Recreation Department has announced its Winter Programs for December 2021 through March 2022. Here is a summary of those offerings.

Saturday, Dec. 4 – Santa at Bertram Chain of Lakes Park (10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.). A family-orien...

Second Half Property Taxes Due by Friday, Oct. 15

The Wright County Finance and Taxpayer Services Department is reminding residents that second half property tax payments are due on or before Friday, Oct. 15. For those looking to pay in person, they can bring their payment to the Finance and Taxpayer Ser...

U of M Extension Offers Advice on Dealing with Fallen Leaves

By Katie Drewitz & Adam Austing, University of Minnesota Extension

Raking leaves is one of those fall chores that you likely aren’t thrilled about doing, especially if you have an abundance of trees. It seems that this time of year the questi...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report for the period of October 4-10, 2021. The report can be seen here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=2910

Grand Jury Indicts Ulrich on Multiple Counts

A Message from Wright County Attorney’s Office:

Brian Lutes, Wright County Attorney, convened a grand jury last week to investigate the February 9, 2021, shooting at the Allina Clinic in Buffalo, Minnesota, resulting in the tragic death of Lindsa...

Sheriff's Office Provides Details of Fatal Accident Saturday

A Message from the Wright County Sheriff’s Office:

At approximately 3:15 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 9, deputies were dispatched to a motor vehicle crash with injuries near 1851 50^th St NE in Buffalo Township. The driver of a 2018 Dodge...

MnDOT Announces Changes on I-94 Coming This Week

The Minnesota Department of Transportation has announced a pair of changes on the I-94 project between Clearwater and Maple Grove.

Starting Tuesday, Oct. 12, the westbound lanes of I-94 between Hwy. 25 in Monticello and CSAH 8 in Hasty will return to the w...

Highway Department to Host LOST Open Houses

A Message from the Wright County Highway Department

In 2017, the Wright County Board of Commissioners approved a 0.5% Local Option Sales Tax (LOST) for transportation projects to help cover the transportation funding gap for transportation. The current LOS...

Wright County Public Health Releases Weekly COVID-19 Dashboard

Wright County Public Health has released its weekly COVID-19 dashboard. There was a significant spike in new cases over the last seven days, with 758 new cases reported – the most in one week in Wright County since the Dec.10, 2020 dashboard. A ...

CSAH 30 to Close in Stockholm Township Starting Oct. 11

A reminder from the Wright County Highway Department that a culvert replacement project on CSAH 30 in Stockholm Township is scheduled to begin the morning of Monday, Oct. 11. The construction will take place west of the CSAH 5 intersection. Traffic lookin...

Emerging Leaders Spread the Word of Awareness of Domestic Violence

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and Wright County 2021 Emerging Leaders, county staff members from numerous different departments, has taken on the challenge of shining a light on the issue of domestic violence and raising awareness about the...

Explore 4-H Event Coming to Monticello Area Sunday

Wright County 4-H will be conducting an Explore 4-H Day open house event from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 10 at Fresh Acres Corn Maze (7385 Jason Ave. NE in Monticello Township). There will be free pumpkin painting. There is an additional cost for maze...

Parks & Rec Announces Bids Open for a Pair of Projects

A Message from the Wright County Parks & Recreation Department

Request for Sealed Bids – Basins and Grade Stabilization

Wright County Division of Agriculture and Drainage in partnership with the Wright Soil and Water Conservation District is s...

Red Hailstone Creeping Nearer to Wright County

A Message from University of Minnesota Extension

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has declared red hailstone (Thladiantha dubia) the October weed of the month. Also known as goldencreeper, there are known infestations of this herbaceous vine n...

A Pair of Prescription Drug Take-Back Days Scheduled Oct. 23

Most people who are prescribed opioids for pain relief after a surgery or injury have unused meds. Make sure they don’t get into the wrong hands. Safely dispose of opioids and other medications at this year’s Prescription Drug Take Bac...

Exit Ramp at Hwy. 241 to Change Starting Wednesday

Starting tomorrow (Wednesday, Oct. 6), the existing exit from westbound I-94 at Hwy. 241 in St. Michael will be closed and westbound traffic wanting to exit at Hwy. 241 will begin using a new loop ramp. The closure of the existing ramp is expected to rema...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report for the period covering Sept. 27 to Oct. 3. The full report can be seen here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=2890

Dense Fog Advisory In Place Overnight Until 10 A.M. Tuesday

The National Weather Service has issued a Dense Fog Advisory from 1 a.m. to 10 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 5, including Wright County. Visibility is expected to be as low as one-quarter of mile in many areas. The counties included in the advisory include Anoka, Be...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report for the period of Sept. 27-Oct. 3. The full report can be seen here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=2890

MnDOT Seeking Public Input for Hwy. 25 Corridor Survey

A Message from the Minnesota Department of Transportation

Travelers who drive, ride, walk or do business on Highway 25 from Buffalo to Monticello are invited to take an online survey that shows potential solutions for this corridor. The survey, part of an ...

Spotlight Story Focuses on Wright County Sheriff's Office Response to Allina Shooting

Feb. 9, 2021 started like most Minnesota days in February. That would change at 10:52 a.m. when the Allina Crossroads Clinic came under attack and changed the lives of Buffalo residents forever. Wright County Sheriff Sean Deringer and Chief Deputy Matt Tr...

Rockford Township Hosting Cleanup Day Saturday

Rockford Township will hosting Cleanup Day event from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 2. The township has a listing of items it will accept including appliances, tires, electronics and furniture. It should be noted that no brush/leaves or household hazardou...

DNR Releases Updated Fall Color Map

For those traveling north this weekend, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is highlighting its annual Fall Color Map. Updated today (Oct. 1), the map shows people where in Minnesota fall colors are currently at 75-100 percent of their peak &...

Public Health Releases Weekly COVID-19 Dashboard

Wright County Public Health has released its weekly COVID-19 dashboard, which included the seventh straight week of increased new cases. There were 473 new cases reported over the past seven days – the most in one seven-day period since April 15...

Highway Department to Host Two LOST Open Houses

A Message from the Wright County Highway Department

The Wright County Board approved a 0.5 percent Local Option Sales Tax (LOST) for transportation projects in 2017 to help cover the transportation funding gap for transportation. The current LOST authoriza...

License Center Announces Appointment Openings for Oct. 11-22

The Wright County License Center has announced that approximately 600 appointments for renewing driver’s licenses will open at 8 a.m. tomorrow (Oct. 1). The appointments will cover the period of Oct. 11-22.

Appointments are served on time and wal...

County Board Declares Oct. 3-9 4-H Week in Wright County

At its Sept. 28 meeting, the Wright County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a resolution proclaiming the week of Oct. 3-9 National 4-H Week in Wright County.

4-H has long been an empowering source for youth that teaches cooperation, achievement,...

DNR Provides List of Best Viewing of Fall Bird Migration

Minnesota is one of the best areas in the country to watch many species of birds as they make their annual migration down the Mississippi River Flyway. Approximately 325 species of birds and 40 percent of waterfowl use the Mississippi Flyway during their ...

Sheriff's Office to Host Level 3 Predator Notification Meeting Oct. 6 in Silver Creek Township

A Message from the Wright County Sheriff’s Office

Level 3 Predatory Offender Information

According to Minnesota Statute 244.052, the Wright County Sheriff’s Office is releasing information regarding David John Kangas Jr., a Level 3 regis...

County Board Approves 2022 Preliminary Levy

At its meeting this morning (Sept. 28) the Wright County Board of Commissioners approved the draft certified levy of $87,257,925, which represents a 5.75 percent levy increase from last year’s budget.

Wright County Administrator Lee Kelly explain...

U of M Extension Offers Tips on Ridding Grain Bin of Insect Pests

By Anthony Hanson, Extension Educator - Field Crops Integrated Pest Management and David Nicolai, Extension Educator - Institute for Ag Professionals Program Coordinator

Late summer and early fall are the times to ensure infested and spoiled grain in bins ...

CSAH 30 to Close in Stockholm Township Starting Oct. 11

A culvert replacement project on CSAH 30 in Stockholm Township is scheduled to begin the morning of Monday, Oct. 11. The construction will take place west of the CSAH 5 intersection. Traffic looking to stay on CSAH 30 or access the segments on either side...

Public Health, Health Care Providers Partnering for Community Health Survey

Wright County and its dedicated community partners will soon be conducting a community health survey.  

During October and November some residents across Wright County will receive a community health survey by mail. Four local organizations are wo...

U of M Extension Offering Advice in Dealing with Boxelder Bugs

By Karen Johnson, University of Minnesota Extension

As the weather begins to cool, several insects begin searching for a place to overwinter. Some insects, including the boxelder bug and lady beetles, become a nuisance as they decide to move into our homes...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report covering the period of Sept. 20-26. The full report can be seen here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=2873

COVID Vaccine Clinic Coming to Montrose Tuesday

A free COVID vaccine clinic will be held tomorrow (Tuesday, Sept. 28) from 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Montrose Community Center (200 Center Ave. S.). The clinic will be offering both the two-dose Pfizer vaccine and the single-dose Johnson & Johnson...

DNR to Hold Public Meeting to Discuss Proposed Fishing Changes

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources will be conducting a public meeting from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 7 at the Corinna Township Hall to discuss new proposed fish-limit restrictions on four Wright County lakes – Crawford Lake in ...

Public Health Releases Weekly COVID-19 Dashboard

Wright County Public Health has released its weekly COVID-19 dashboard, which included the sixth straight week of increased new cases. There were 447 new cases reported over the past seven days – the most in one seven-day period since April 15. In additio...

Wright County Receives Broadband Survey Report

On Wednesday, Sept. 22, Wright County hosted a broadband public informational meeting at the Wright County Government Center. At that meeting, Design Nine, the company hired by the county to conduct a broadband survey, presented its Broadband Survey Repor...

Broadband Survey Results Explained At Informational Meeting

Last night (Sept. 22), a public informational meeting was moderated by Jack Maytum of the consulting firm Design Nine, which was retained by Wright County earlier this year to conduct an extensive broadband survey. Among the survey results were that 86 pe...

Highway Department Announces CSAH 37 Closure in Monticello

The Wright County Highway Department would like to inform the public of the following highway closure in Monticello Township.  

County Highway 37 will be closed at the intersection of CR 118 (Fenning Avenue) to provide a safe work zone to construc...

Wright County Improves on U.S. Drought Monitor

Thanks to heavy rains over the past week-and-a-half, for the first time in two months, none of Wright County is deemed to be in severe or extreme drought conditions, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.

The entire state showed marked improvement in the l...

Broadband Informational Meeting Tonight at Government Center

As part of the American Rescue Plan (ARP), Wright County has committed funds to improve broadband accessibility to rural areas of the county. At 7 p.m. tonight (Sept. 22), Design Nine – the firm that conducted a broadband study for the county, w...

Second Half Property Taxes Due Oct. 15

Wright County Taxpayer Services would like to remind all property owners that second half property taxes for most properties are due Friday, October 15, 2021.

Payments can be mailed to:  Wright County Taxpayer Services, 10 2^nd St. NW Room 230, Buf...

DNR Has Fall Color Map as Autumn Officially Begins Tomorrow

With freeze warnings being issued tonight for much of northern Minnesota and tomorrow (Sept. 22) being the autumnal equinox, it’s a clear sign that colder weather is coming with the change of seasons. For those who enjoy the fall colors, with a ...

U of M Extension Honors National Farm Safety & Health Week

By Karen Johnson, Extension educator, University of Minnesota Extension – McLeod & Meeker counties

It’s National Farm Safety and Health Week. This year’s theme is “Farm Safety Yields Real Results.” This annual promotion initiated by the National Safety...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report for the period of Sept. 13-19. The full report can be seen here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=2858

HHS Shares Links as Part of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month and Wright County Health & Human Services wants people to know that we can all play a part in working toward preventing suicide.

Suicide in the 10^th leading cause of death in the United States and eighth ...

Those Seeking Hunting Licenses Won't Have to Wait In Line at License Center

The Wright County License Center has announced that, starting today, individuals looking to get hunting licenses this fall will get a “fast pass” at the indoor location in the Wright County Government Center. Hunting licenses are extre...

Public Health Releases Weekly COVID-19 Dashboard

Wright County Public Health has released its weekly COVID-19 dashboard. Over the last seven days, there have been 415 new confirmed cases reported – the most since the April 8 dashboard and the fifth consecutive week of an increased number of ne...

The Turn Announces Graduation Ceremony Set for Sept. 23

The Turn, Wright County’s adult drug court, is pleased to announce the graduation of Jonathan Hareid and Jeremiah Stueven. Established in 2016, The Turn provides intensive case management, treatment and court supervision for individuals arrested...

License Bureau Announces Appointment Openings for Sept. 27-Oct. 8

The Wright County License Center has announced that approximately 600 appointments for renewing driver’s licenses will open at 8 a.m. tomorrow (Sept. 17). The appointments will cover the period of Sept. 27 to Oct. 8.

Appointments are served on ti...

Absentee Balloting Opens Friday for Four School District Elections

Four school districts – Annandale, Delano, Monticello and St. Michael-Albertville – will be holding elections this fall.  Wright County voters located in those school districts will be able to vote on the respective ballot que...

License Center Has Open Appointment Slots Next Week

For those who have been waiting to get their driver’s licenses changed to REAL ID, there is an anomaly at the Wright County License Center next week that could be of assistance.

Tomorrow License Center appointments will go live for the period of ...

Wright County Remains Unchanged in U.S. Drought Monitor

Despite intermittent rain over the last week, Wright County and much of Minnesota remain in Severe Drought conditions according to the latest release from the U.S. Drought Monitor.

A year ago, none of Minnesota was in the category of D2 (Severe Drought), D...

MDH Unveils App to Assist in Easily Retrieving Vaccination Records

Minnesotans can now easily access their immunization record through their smartphones or other mobile devices by using an app called Docket. Docket enables residents with a Minnesota Immunization Information Connection (MIIC) record to securely view and s...

DPS Labor Day DWI Campaign a Success

Last month, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) announced that it would have additional patrols on Minnesota roads from Aug. 20 through Labor Day (Sept. 6) as part of its Labor Day DWI Campaign – designed to reduce the number of drun...

COVID Vaccination Clinic Coming to Montrose Sept. 28

Wright County Public Health has announced that it will be conducting a community vaccine clinic in Montrose from 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 28 at the Montrose Community Center (200 Center Ave. S.). The clinic will be held in conjunction with th...

Emergency Management Seeks Public Input for Hazard Mitigation Plan

A Message from Wright County Emergency Management 

The Wright County Office of Emergency Management is working with U-Spatial at the University of Minnesota Duluth to update the county’s Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan (MHMP). The plan asse...

Extension Offers Tips on Root Vegetable Storage

By Katie Drewitz and Adam Austing, University of Minnesota Extension

Even with the hot dry summer conditions that we saw, many gardeners still have root vegetables to store. With canning supplies still in short supply this year, it is important to understa...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report covering the period of Sept. 6-12, 2021. The full report can be viewed here: News Flash • Wright County, MN • CivicEngage

Red Cross Blood Drive Using License Center Waiting Room Wednesday

A Message from the Wright County License Center:

The American Red Cross is hosting a blood drive on Wednesday, Sept. 15 in Room 120 of the Wright County Government Center. Room 120 is typically used as the waiting room for walk-ins looking to renew their d...

Broadband Informational Meeting Coming Sept. 22

Wright County is in the process of gathering information and public input on improving the county’s broadband capability and part of that process will include a public informational meeting scheduled for 7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 22 in the Wright County Boa...

Fallon Avenue Construction in Monticello Township Starts Monday

A Message from the Wright County Highway Department:

Construction on Fallon Avenue in Monticello Township is scheduled to begin Sept. 13. Work on the segment of Fallon Avenue (approximately a half-mile segment) begins at CSAH 37 and includes reshaping the ...

DEED to Begin Accepting COVID Relief Grant Applications Sept. 20

A Message from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development

The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) will begin accepting applications for the Main Street COVID Relief Grants Program on Monday, September 20....

Public Health Releases Weekly COVID-19 Dashboard

Wright County Public Health has released its weekly COVID-19 Dashboard. For the third straight week, the county saw the highest seven-day total for new confirmed cases since the end of April with 364 new cases being reported. In addition, there were 20 ca...

DNR Has Fall Color Map To Assist Those Who Travel to See Autumn Leaves

Anyone who has lived in Minnesota any period of time knows that once September arrives, the leaves in different parts of the state can reach their full autumnal beauty quickly. For those who travel to see the fall colors, the Minnesota Department of Natur...

GRRL Hosting September 11 Exhibit In Two Wright County Locations

With the 20^th anniversary of the Sept. 11 tragedies coming this weekend, the Great River Regional Library is hosting a 9/11 memorial exhibit at six of its branch locations, including two in Wright County (Annandale and St. Michael).

The “Septembe...

Minnesota Slowly Pulling Out of Severe Drought Conditions

The weekly U.S. Drought Monitor has been released today and thanks to heavy rains in late-August, while Wright County remains in the D2 category (Severe Drought), it is no longer in the D3 (Extreme Drought) classification. The numbers of areas in the Seve...

9/11 Remembrance Day Coming to State Capitol Saturday

The Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs, the 9/11 Global War on Terrorism Task Force and the Minnesota Military Museum will conduct a “9/11 Day of Remembrance” Saturday, Sept. 11 at the Minnesota State Capitol grounds in St. Paul....

Preliminary Census Numbers Show Wright County Continues to Grow

While the United States Census Bureau has yet to release its final national head count numbers to the public, the Minnesota Secretary of State’s has been releasing numbers on its website and, as expected, Wright County continues to grow at a fas...

MDH Running Suicide Prevention Awareness Campaign in September

September in National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month and the Minnesota Department of Health is running a campaign to raise awareness. This week’s theme is promoting crisis resources available to let those at risk be made aware that they matt...

Extension Looking for Master Gardener Candidates

By Adam Austing, University of Minnesota Extension Educator

Do you have an active interest in gardening?   Do you have a desire to share your gardening interest with others?  Are you willing to learn more about gardening and other horticu...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report covering the period of Aug. 30-Sept. 5. The full report can be seen here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=2826

HHS Looking for Board Members for Mental Health Advisory Council

A Message from Wright County Health & Human Services

Wright County Health & Human Services is dedicated to providing essential mental health services while improving access to services and resources that support mental wellbeing across the County. ...

Parks & Rec Explains Otsego Park Restoration Project

A Message from the Wright County Parks & Recreation Department Concerning a Project in Otsego County Park:

Park users over the years have noticed the streambank at Otsego County Park has been eroding – some years faster than others. Over the ...

Public Health Releases COVID-19 Dashboard

On Friday, Sept. 3, Wright County Public Health released its weekly COVID-19 dashboard covering the period of Aug. 27-Sept. 2. There were 340 new cases of COVID reported – the most cases in a seven-day period since the last week of April. There ...

Westbound I-94 Access Ramp At Hwy. 241 Closes Today

Starting this morning (Tuesday, Sept. 7), the access ramps to westbound I-94 at Highway 241 in St. Michael will be closed. There are two detours for this closure. One is northbound Hwy. 241/Co. Rd. 36 detour to Hwy. 101 to access westbound I-94. The other...

County Offices and Facilities to Be Closed Monday

All Wright County offices and facilities will be closed Monday, Sept. 6 in observance of the Labor Day holiday. All offices and facilities will re-open at 8 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 7.

Item Scheduled for Today's Planning Commission Continued

A Message from Wright County Planning & Zoning:

A conditional use permit request from MBE, Inc. to mine gravel originally scheduled to be heard at today’s (Sept. 2) Planning Commission meeting has been continued to the Oct. 28 meeting and wil...

License Center Announces Appointment Openings for Sept. 13-24

The Wright County License Center has announced that approximately 600 appointments for renewing driver’s licenses will open at 8 a.m. tomorrow (Sept. 3). The appointments will cover the period of Sept. 13-24.

Appointments are served on time and w...

Drought Monitor Shows Improvement in Wright County

Extension Offering Tips On Harvesting Minnesota Apples

By Adam Austing and Annie Klodd, UMN Extension Educators

Apple orchards have started their seasons as early-ripening varieties hit maturity. For homeowners with apple trees, perfectly timing the harvest of your apples can be trickier that one might expect....

Highway Department Has Update on Co. Rd. 118 Project in Monticello

An Update on the County Road 118 project in Monticello

The contractor continues to make progress on the completion of the project. A majority of the grading, curb and gutter and utility work has been completed on the roundabout with the exception of the no...

Highway Department Submits 2020 Annual Report to County Board

At the Wright County Board of Commissioners meeting today (Aug. 30), Highway Engineer Virgil Hawkins presented the board with his 110-page 2020 Annual Report dealing with all matters pertaining to highways and his department. The full report can be seen h...

Experimental Five-Day Teal Hunting Season Opens Sunday

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has announced waterfowl hunters will have a brief window to hunt teal during an experimental early season Saturday, Sept. 4 through Wednesday, Sept. 8. Hunters can harvest up to six birds per day in any combin...

Co. Rd. 137 Will Be Controlled By Signal System Starting Sept. 7

A Message from the Wright County Highway Department:

The intersection of County Highway 137 (60^th St NE) and Maciver Ave NE/MacKenzie Ave NE, just east of I-94 in the Cities of Albertville and Otsego, will be temporarily controlled by a signal system begin...

Driver's Testing Station Coming Back to Buffalo in January

At an Aug. 26 meeting convened by State Rep. Marion O’Neill, Wright County officials have been assured that when the new Wright County Government Center opens early next year, it will include a driver’s testing center from the Minnesot...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report for the period of Aug. 23-29. To see the full report, click here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=2810

State Patrol, DPS Have Video On School Bus Stop Arm Protocol

The Minnesota State Highway Patrol and the Department of Public Safety are reminding motorists that with children heading back to school there will be many school buses on the roads. School buses are equipped with stop arms that not everyone obeys and the...

DNR Has FishCam Live Streaming at the State Fair

For those who won’t be making it the Great Minnesota Get-Together this year, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is sharing one of its most popular State Fair attractions online.

Throughout the run of the Fair, the DNR will have its liv...

Significant Overnight Delays Coming Early Next Week on I-94

Yesterday (Aug. 26) the new entrance ramp at CSAH 19 to eastbound I-94 opened – another box checked in the three-year process of road construction between Maple Grove and Clearwater. But, those who travel I-94, especially at night, will be in fo...

Wright County Public Health Releases Weekly COVID-19 Dashboard

Wright County Public Health has released its weekly COVID-19 dashboard. There were 274 new confirmed cases reported, the most in a seven-day period in Wright County since the first week of May. There were nine cases that required hospitalization, two that...

Wright County HHS Looking for New Members to Mental Health Advisory Council

A Message from Wright County Health and Human Services

Wright County Health and Human Services is dedicated to providing essential mental health services while improving access to services and resources that support mental wellbeing across the County. In a...

New Requirements Coming for Family First Prevention Services Act

On September 30, 2021, Minnesota will be implementing new requirements related to the Family First Prevention Services Act.  When children and youth are placed in settings such as corporate foster homes, group homes, and children residential trea...

Drought Monitor Shows Continued Extreme Drought In Wright County

Most of Wright County got some much-needed rain Tuesday, but it wasn’t enough to lessen the county’s designation on the U.S. Drought Monitor, which released its weekly drought map this morning. Almost all of Wright County remains in th...

Commissioner Districts Won't Be Subject to Redistricting

It’s been a long time coming, but for the first time since the 1970 Census, Wright County won’t have to redistrict the five commissioner districts. This week, Wright County received commissioner district population figures from the Min...

Co. Rd. 119 Closure In St. Michael Extended Through Sept. 1

The City of St. Michael issued a press release this afternoon stating that, due to the heavy rain that came through the area Tuesday morning, the closure of County Road 119 in St. Michael will be extended through Wednesday, Sept. 1 so crews can safely con...

Eastbound I-94 Ramp Off CSAH 19 to Open Tomorrow

The Minnesota Department of Transportation has announced that the new CSAH 19 entrance ramp to eastbound I-94 in Albertville will open tomorrow (Thursday, Aug. 26). For many years, CSAH 19 has had exit ramps in both directions coming off I-94, but only ha...

Recorder's Office to Offer Land Notification Alerts Starting Sept. 1

Beginning Wednesday, Sept. 1, Wright County residents can receive notifications from the Wright County Recorder’s Office by signing up to get free Land Notification Alerts. This service will alert property owners of activity that may be possible...

MnDOT Provides Update on I-94 Construction

The Minnesota Department of Transportation has provided an update to the I-94 project between Maple Grove and Clearwater that is scheduled to be completed later this year. The current focus of a lot of the work is the installation of concrete lanes and do...

License Center Reminding Public of Drop Box Option for License Tab Renewals

The Wright County License Center would like to remind people that the county has drop boxes for license tab renewals. At the end of each month, there tends to be a rush of residents looking to renew their tabs – either inside the Government Cent...

Extension Provides Crop Update

By Adam Austing, UMN Extension Educator

Some rain rumbled through the region on the weekend of August 20. As has been the story for 2021, it was variable and left many of us still wanting more. Some fields have dried up and are now near or total losses, es...

Parks & Rec Seeks Public Input for Comprehensive System Plan Update

The Wright County Parks & Recreation Department is in the process of developing a comprehensive system plan for park facilities and recreation programs. The plan will evaluate current conditions of county parks, trails and programs and develop a plan ...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report for the period of Aug. 16-22. The full report can be seen here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=2790

Attorney's Office Reaches Plea Agreement with Vega

The Wright County Attorney’s Office announced late Friday that it had reached a plea agreement with Alejandro Vega, 37 of Montrose, who was scheduled to go on trial this week in connection with the murder of Justin Warnke, 34 of Buffalo, on Dec....

Early Broadband Survey Results Coming In

Wright County is asking residents to complete an online broadband survey as part of the data gathering process for the expansion of the county fiber grid with funds from the American Rescue Plan. The project is expected to get underway in 2022, but the pr...

Highway Patrol to Have Increased DWI Enforcement Through Labor Day

As of today (Aug. 20), the Minnesota Department of Public Safety and the Minnesota Highway Patrol have begun increased impaired driver enforcement on Minnesota roads, which will run through Labor Day.

Its annual late-summer enforcement campaign is designed...

Raptor Presentation Coming to Bertram Chain of Lakes Park Saturday

The Minnesota Raptor Center is coming to Bertram Chain of Lakes Regional Park tomorrow (Saturday, Aug. 21). At this event, participants will see a Red-Tailed Hawk, an American Kestrel and a Great Horned Owl. There will be two one-hour shows – on...

License Center Announces Appointment Openings for Aug. 30-Sept. 10

The Wright County License Center has announced that approximately 600 appointments for renewing driver’s licenses will open at 8 a.m. tomorrow (Aug. 20). The appointments will cover the period of Aug. 30 through Sept. 10 (there will be no appoin...

Wright County Public Health Releases Weekly COVID-19 Dashboard

Wright County Public Health has released its weekly COVID-19 dashboard today and the total number of Wright County cases has topped 17,000. There were 204 new reported cases (the most in one seven-day period since June 10) with nine cases that required ho...

Drought Monitor Shows Continued Expansion of Extreme Drought In Minnesota

The U.S. Drought Monitor has released its weekly report on drought conditions in Minnesota. While no areas in the state showed marked improvement, the classification for Wright County remained unchanged. Almost all of the county remains in the D3 category...

U of M Extension Offers Tips on Using Dish Soap to Combat Garden Bugs

By Marissa Schuh, University of Minnesota Extension educator, integrated pest management

Any place gardeners gather to talk about plants, there will be talk of soap. Dish soap and water are often referred to as the “holy grail” for mana...

Parks & Rec Announces Campfire Restrictions for Primitive Campsites

A Message from Wright County Parks & Recreation

Wright County is restricting campfires in fire rings in the primitive campsites located at Stanley Eddy Regional Park, the North Fork Crow River Parks and Montissippi Park until further notice. Campfires ...

Local Heroes Days Coming to Monticello Aug. 19-21

Next Thursday, Friday and Saturday (Aug. 19-21) Wright County will be celebrating Local Heroes Days – in honor of frontline workers, including law enforcement, firefighters, first responders, veterans, Armed Forces, educators and medical personn...

Winstock Announces Full Burning Ban for This Weekend's Festival

One of the more popular music festivals during the summer months has been the Winstock Country Music Festival in nearby Winsted. The event is coming this weekend (Friday, Aug. 20 and Saturday, Aug. 21) and the campground is opening Thursday. However, due ...

Final Hiking Wright Event of the Summer Coming Saturday

The final Hiking Wright event of the 2021 season will take place from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 21 at Carl Johnson County Park in Cokato. The free event is part of a series of hike explorations that give participants an opportunity to get a long...

Extension to Host Drought Workshop Thursday

By Adam Austing and Nathan Drewitz, University of Minnesota Extension Educator

As this summer drags on, farmers are feeling little relief from this relentless drought. As of August 5, the U.S. Drought Monitor (www.droughtmonitor.unl.edu) showed that nearly...

DNR Includes Wright County Under Burning Restrictions Starting Tonight

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources announced today (Aug. 16) that, effective at 12:01 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 17, 12 more counties have been included in the DNR’s burning restriction list, including Wright County. In all, 34 Minnesota coun...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report for the period of Aug. 9-15. The full report can be viewed here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=2769

Public Access at Clearwater/Pleasant Park to Close Tuesday

A Message from the Wright County Parks & Recreation Department:

Wright County Parks & Recreation has announced that the Pleasant Lake Public Water Access located in Clearwater/Pleasant County Park will close tomorrow (Tuesday, Aug. 17). Parks &...

Sheriff's Office Seeking Public's Help in Locating Subway Robber in Delano

A Message from the Wright County Sheriff’s Office:

At approximately 8:15 p.m. on Sunday, August 15, Wright County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to the Subway restaurant at 625 Babcock Boulevard East in the City of Delano for a rep...

County COVID Numbers Climbing After Slow Summer

As new cases of COVID-19 have taken a sharp upturn as the Delta variant has made its way across the country, Wright County has been no exception. After two months of almost stagnant numbers in terms of new cases, Wright County experienced its second week ...

MnDOT Looking for Input Dealing with Hwy. 25 Study

The Minnesota Department of Transportation has begun the second round of public engagement for the projected 2026 Hwy. 25 construction project between Monticello and Buffalo. Earlier this year MnDOT asked for public input on the trouble spots between the ...

Text Scam Involving MnDOT Making Its Way to Phones Across the State

The Minnesota Department of Transportation is warning residents of a scam that is using MnDOT as the sender of a fraudulent text message asking people to provide personal information for driver’s license waiver evaluations. MnDOT has nothing to ...

Wright County Remains In Extreme Drought Classification

The U.S. Drought Monitor has released its weekly drought map for Minnesota and almost all of Wright County remains in the D3 classification (Extreme Drought). While locally heavy rains hit many areas of the state over the last week, Wright County didn&...

Ulrich Withdraws Competency Determination

A Message from Wright County Attorney Brian Lutes

In the case of State of Minnesota vs. Gregory Paul Ulrich (Wright County District Court File No. 86-CR-21-641), Gregory Paul Ulrich appeared in Wright County District Court today (Aug. 11, 2021). The Defend...

Residents Reminded to Call 811 Before They Dig

Today is Aug. 11 (8/11) and the national “Call Before You Dig” 811 number call centers – in Minnesota known as Gopher State One Call – is using this day to remind people who plan to dig in their yards or property to...

Ulrich Scheduled to Appear in Court Wednesday

A Message from the Wright County Attorney’s Office

Gregory Paul Ulrich is scheduled to appear in court at 9 a.m. Wednesday, August 11, 2021. The defense previously filed an objection to the May 14, 2021 Rule 20 Competency Evaluation Report regard...

DNR Releases 2021 Waterfowl Handbook

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has released its 2021 Minnesota Waterfowl Handbook, which includes the dates and bag limits for the teal, duck and goose season, as well as a listing of changes to the statewide waterfowl regulations. Pr...

County Fair Drew More Than 56,000 people

The 150^th Wright County Fair was held July 21-25 and, despite some extremely hot weather many of the days, Wright County Fair Board President Ward Westphal said the fair was a success and, despite taking a year off due to COVID-19, things went relatively ...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report for the period covering Aug 2-8. To see the full report, click here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=2757

U of M Extension Hosting Drought Workshop Aug. 19

As this summer drags on, farmers are feeling little relief from this relentless drought. As of August 5, the U.S. Drought Monitor (www.droughtmonitor.unl.edu) showed that nearly all of Wright County was experiencing extreme drought. In response, Universit...

MnDOT Recommends Zipper Merging At Lane Closure Sites

For years, motorists who see a “Lane Closed Ahead” sign and remain in the lane that is closing are viewed as somewhere between being discourteous and being an outright jerk. However, with many major highways under construction this sum...

DNR Offering Updates on 2021 Deer Hunting Seasons

It may seem a little early to be thinking about deer hunting season, but the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is providing information about the coming archery season, which opens in six weeks (Saturday, Sept. 18) and the firearms season, which o...

Census Results Expected to Be Released Next Thursday

After months of delays, the results of the 2020 United States Census are scheduled to be released Thursday, Aug. 12. Census data is typically released in April of the year following the Census to give states and counties time to conduct redistricting base...

Public Health Issues Press Release Providing COVID-19 Updates

Wright County Public Health has issued a press release regarding updates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention dealing with the rise in COVID-19 Delta variant and vaccination numbers for Wright County. To see the full release, click here: ht...

MnDOT Looking for Public Input on Hwy. 12 Corridor Study

The Minnesota Department of Transportation is conducting a virtual open house dealing with the Highway 12 Corridor Study from Delano to Independence. Those who live or travel frequently in this corridor are inviting to learn more about this project and pr...

Wright County Public Health Releases Weekly COVID-19 Dashboard

Wright County Public Health has released its weekly COVID-19 dashboard and, for the first time since the first week of June, there have been more than 50 new confirmed cases of COVID reported.

There were 146 new cases reported over the last week &ndash...

License Center Announces Appointment Openings for Aug. 16-27

The Wright County License Center has announced that approximately 600 appointments for renewing driver’s licenses opened at 8 a.m. today (Aug. 6). The appointments will cover the period of Aug. 16-27. Appointments are served on time and walk-ins...

Parks & Rec to Host Paddle On! Canoeing Adventure Aug. 14

In partnership with YMCA Day Camp Manitou, the Wright Parks & Recreation Department will be sponsoring a Paddle On! event from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 14. The event will be held at Bertram Chain of Lakes Regional Park and is an adventure for those ...

Drought Tightening Its Grip On Wright County

The weekly U.S. Drought Monitor has been released and the grip the drought has had on Wright County continues to grow.

In mid-July, half of Wright County was downgraded from the Severe Drought designation to Extreme Drought. For two weeks it remained that ...

Recorder's Office to Offer Land Notification Alerts Starting Sept. 1

Beginning Wednesday, Sept. 1, Wright County residents can receive notifications from the Wright County Recorder’s Office by signing up to get free Land Notification Alerts. This service will alert property owners of activity that may be possible...

Collinwood, Clearwater/Pleasant Swimming Beaches Re-Open

The Wright County Parks & Recreation Department has announced that the swimming beaches are Collinwood and Clearwater/Pleasant Parks have re-opened this afternoon (Aug. 4). Both beaches were closed Friday (July 30) after routine testing discovered hig...

Wright Carver Breakfast on the Farm Coming Saturday

The annual Wright Carver Breakfast on the Farm program will be taking place from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Diers Corporation Family Farm near Howard Lake. The event is held every year on a family farm with the goal of sharing hands-on agriculture education ...

Portion of CSAH 5 to Close for Three Days Starting Monday, Aug. 16

A Message from the Wright County Highway Department

The Wright County Highway Department would like to inform the public that CSAH 5 in the area near 70^th Street on the border of Victor and Stockholm Townships will be closed beginning Monday, Aug. 16 and e...

U of M Extension Discusses Wright County Crops During Drought

By Adam Austing, UMN Extension Educator

It is no secret that the majority of Minnesota is facing drought conditions during this summer of 2021. Extreme heat combined with an extreme lack of moisture is taking its toll on plants, animals, and humans alike. ...

Campfires Still Allowed in County Park Campgrounds...For Now

As more areas of Minnesota are being placed under significant burning restrictions, the Wright County Parks & Recreation Department is making campers aware that burning in county park campgrounds within the fire rings is still allowed. However, if con...

Mailing Going Out to Residents to Provide Input for Broadband Survey

Wright County residents have begun receiving a mass mailing looking for public input of a Broadband Survey. The county has contracted with Design Nine of Blacksburg, Virginia to conduct a study to analyze the existing broadband assets in the county, use p...

Presentation On Destigmatizing Substance Use Disorders Coming to Buffalo Aug. 12

Wright County Health and Human Services and MEADA (Mentorship, Education and Drug Awareness) will be co-sponsoring an event dealing with destigmatizing substance use disorders on Thursday, Aug. 12.

“In Other Words: Combatting Stigma and Transform...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report for the period covering July 26 to Aug. 1. To see the full report, click here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=2733

MnDOT To Close CSAH 19 Starting Wednesday

The Minnesota Department of Transportation has announced that Wright County Highway 19 in Albertville will be closed starting Wednesday, Aug. 4 through Friday, Aug. 6 so crews can safely demolish the westbound I-94 bridge.

Beginning Wednesday, northbound C...

Lowered Flags Honoring Slain Police Officer, Buffalo Native

Some may be curious as to why flags are flying at half-staff today. On Friday, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz ordered flags at all government buildings be lowered in honor of Ryan Bialke, an officer with the Red Lake Police Department killed in the line of duty ...

Fenning Avenue/School Boulevard Roundabout Construction Starts Monday

A Message from the Wright County Highway Department

The Wright County Highway Department has announced a project update for the County Highway 118 project in Monticello. The contractor is making significant progress on County Highway 118, completing the ma...

Drought Monitor Shows Expansion of Extreme Drought Into Wright County

The weekly U.S. Drought Monitor map was released today (Thursday, July 29) and it continues to show worsening conditions in Wright County. For the first time, a portion of Wright County is now in the D3 Category (Extreme Drought) and the southern two-thir...

Parks & Rec, Vet Services to Host 9th Annual Disabled Vets Waterfowl Hunt

On Saturday, October 2, the Wright County Parks & Recreation Department will be hosting its Ninth Annual Disabled Veterans Waterfowl Hunt. The event is a chance to give back to those veterans who have put their lives on the line for the freedoms we en...

MPCA Declares Air Quality Alert

For those who awoke this morning and looked out the window at what appeared to be fog found out it was actually smoke from wildfires in Canada. At 10 p.m. last night, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency declared an Air Quality Alert for all of Minnesot...

Excessive Heat Warning In Wright County This Afternoon

Morning cloudiness has delayed the temperatures taking a dramatic jump, but with clouds expected to clear out this afternoon, the National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Warning for more than two dozen Minnesota counties, including Wright Co...

Veterans Career Fair Tomorrow

The Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs and CareerForce Veterans Employment Services are co-sponsoring a Virtual Career Fair from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, July 29. All veterans, active military members and their spouses are invited to explore the o...

Kernza Demonstration Tonight at Farm in Buffalo

By Adam Austing, University of Minnesota Extension Educator

University of Minnesota Extension-Wright County and the Crow River Food Council are partnering to share the exciting characteristics of Kernza with area farmers, food makers and sellers, and those...

U of M Extension Discusses Wright County Crops During Drought

By Adam Austing, University of Minnesota Extension Educator

It is no secret that the majority of Minnesota is facing drought conditions during this summer of 2021. Extreme heat combined with an extreme lack of moisture is taking its toll on plants, animals...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report for the period of July 19-25. The full report can be seen here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=2720

Co. Rd. 19 to Be Reduced to One Lane Starting Wednesday

A Message from the Wright County Highway Department

Starting Wednesday, July 28, Wright County Road 19 will be reduced to a single lane in both directions between the Albertville Mall and Wright County Road 37 in Albertville. Crews need these closures to c...

National Weather Service Issues Excessive Heat Watch

The National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Watch for much of central and southern Minnesota, including Wright County, for Tuesday and Wednesday. The combination of temperatures in the mid-90s and high dewpoints will result in dangerously hi...

Wright County Has Job Openings

Wright County currently has 10 job openings looking to be filled. The list includes an accounting clerk for Health & Human Services, a civilian corrections officer, an eligibility specialist, two Highway Department technicians, a legal administrative ...

Aquatic Invasive Species Found in Locke Lake Near Clearwater

A Message from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has confirmed zebra mussels in Locke Lake, near Clearwater in Wright County.

DNR invasive species specialists followed up on a report from a lake prop...

County Giving Away Vintage Finance Books

For those interested in owning a piece of Wright County history, the Wright County Finance and Taxpayer Services Department is giving away more than 100 of its old register books that date back decades.

The free books aren’t a genealogical resour...

Wright County Under Heat Advisory Today

The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory for noon to 8 p.m. today for several Minnesota counties in central and southern Minnesota, including Wright County.

With temperatures expected to be in the mid-90s and heat indices between 95 and 100 ...

License Center Announces Appointment Openings for Aug. 2-13

The Wright County License Center has announced that approximately 600 appointments for renewing driver’s licenses will open at 8 a.m. Friday (July 23). The appointments will cover the period of Aug. 2-13. With the Peacetime Emergency lifted in M...

National Weather Service to Update Warning System

The National Weather Service announced today that starting Wednesday, July 28 it will be better conveying the severity and potential impacts from significant thunderstorms by adding damage threats to Severe Thunderstorm Warnings – similar to its...

Parks & Rec Seeking Public Input on Updated Master Plan

Wright County Parks and Recreation Department is in the process of developing a comprehensive master plan for park facilities and recreation programs. The plan will evaluate current conditions of County parks, trails, and programs, and develop a plan for ...

Drought Monitor Shows Expansion of Extreme Drought In Minnesota

The U.S. Drought Monitor is updated on Thursdays and Minnesota’s drought continues to expand across the state. This week’s update shows a continued spread of the “Extreme Drought” category, which was first identifie...

The Cost of License Plates Set to Double Aug. 1

There was a flurry of activity at the Minnesota State Legislature last month as some of the larger omnibus bills were approved in June’s special session. With each of those bills passed, there is consequence to them. One of those will involve in...

County Highway 39 Project in Otsego Nearing Completion

The Wright County Highway Department is pleased to announce that the County Highway 39 Project in Otsego will be completed almost two months earlier than the October 15, 2021 completion date for the project! The project work is nearing completion and is a...

Scam Alert Issued by Customs and Border Protection Service

A new telephone-calling scam is using the United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Service to target residents in many states, including Minnesota, to obtain banking information.

Many people have received the unsolicited calls from scammers posing...

Vet Services Thanks Facebook Users for Solving Civil War Veteran Mystery

The Wright County Veteran Services (WCVS) Department would like to sincerely thank the many Facebook users that assisted in helping the department track down the descendants of Lorenzo D. Johnson, a Civil War veteran whose gravestone was discovered in the...

MPCA Issues Air Quality Alert Through 6 A.M. Thursday

At 1:30 p.m., the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency issued an Air Quality Alert for much of Minnesota, including Wright County, until 6 a.m. Thursday, July 22.

Most of the state is in Code Orange, which is unhealthy for sensitive groups that include those...

Need a New or Renewed Passport? The Wait Time Could Pose Travel Problems

With COVID-19 restrictions starting to be lifted in many parts of the world, travelling abroad is going to begin to return to pre-COVID levels. However, if you’ve never needed a passport before or need to get your expiring passport renewed, Wrig...

County Fair Opens Tomorrow; Kids Get In Free

A reminder that the Wright County Fair begins tomorrow (July 21) and everyone aged 17 or younger will be admitted free. It’s one of the many changes that have been made to the fair in honor of its 150^th year.

To see what’s at the Fair, ...

U of M Extension Providing Tips on Dealing with Picnic Beetles

By Kylee Sherod, University of Minnesota Extension Intern, Wright County

Are you seeing small beetles feasting on your fruits and vegetables? 

Glischrochilus quadrisignatus, otherwise known as picnic beetles or sap beetles, are insects that appear ...

EDA Currently Taking Offers for HHS Center

The Wright County Economic Development Authority (EDA) has begun fielding offers for the purchase and redevelopment of the Wright County Human Services Center, located at 1004 Commercial Drive in Buffalo near the intersection of Highway 55 and Highway 25....

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report for the period of July 12-18, 2021. The full report can be seen here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=2698

Safe Communities Warns About Dangers of Speeding

A Message from Virgil Hawkins, Wright County Highway Engineer and Safe Communities of Wright County Board Member

You may have noticed extra law enforcement on the roads recently.  They are working extra speed patrols for those motorists who drive ...

Annandale Fitness Club Owner Found Guilty of Filming in Tanning Booth

On Thursday (July 15), a jury in Wright County convicted Randall Roiger, 45, of Cokato of interference with privacy – a gross misdemeanor – for installing a camera in a tanning booth at Snap Fitness in Annandale.

The Wright County Sheri...

DNR 'Honoring' Minnesota's 17 Species of Snakes on World Snake Day

There are many people who believe the only good snake is a dead snake, but, in honor of June 16 being World Snake Day, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is letting people know that six of the 17 snakes native to Minnesota (including the timber...

Heatwave Forecast to Coincide with County Fair

With families readying to go the Wright County Fair next week, they are being warned to remain hydrated because the forecasted weather has six straight days projected to be 90 degrees or warmer.

According to Weather.com, starting Monday, July 19 we can exp...

Parks & Rec To Host Birdwatching Event Saturday at Schroeder Park

Wright County Parks & Recreation will be hosting a Backyard Birds event from 1 to 3 p.m. tomorrow (Saturday, July 17) at Schroeder Park Campground in Corinna Township east of Annandale.

More than 400 species of birds are known to live in Minnesota and ...

DNR Warning Boaters About Low Water Issues at Boat Launches

A Message from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources

The abnormally dry to drought conditions occurring across Minnesota are creating challenging conditions for people trying to get their boats into or out of the water at public boat launches, acco...

Timeline for Co. Rd. 118 Project in Monticello Released

The Wright County Highway Department has released a tentative time schedule for the County Road 118 (Fenning Avenue) roundabout project. All the dates and time duration for the different portions of the project are weather-dependent.

Subgrade Preparation &...

Talent Show for County Fair July 22 Cancelled

The Wright County Fair Board has announced that the Talent Show at the 2021 Wright County Fair has been cancelled.

A release from the Fair Board stated: “The Wright County Fair regrets to announce that the Talent Show scheduled for Thurs...

Wright County Split In Drought Categories

Despite sporadic rain in the area over the last few weeks, drought conditions in Minnesota continue to be a problem and cut Wright County in half between areas considered severe drought and moderate drought.

The U.S. Drought Monitor released its weekly dro...

Several County Departments to Participate in Wright County Fair

The 150^th Wright County Fair opens a week from today (July 21) and several Wright County departments will have booths or tents set up to discuss and promote the work done by their offices and departments.

The Wright County Highway Department booth will hav...

Presentation of Destigmatizing Substance Use Disorders Coming to Buffalo Aug. 12

Wright County Health and Human Services and MEADA (Mentorship, Education and Drug Awareness) will be co-sponsoring an event dealing with destigmatizing substance use disorders.  “In Other Words: Combatting Stigma and Transforming Cultur...

MnDOT Provides Update on I-94 Construction

For those who use I-94 on a regular basis, the Minnesota Department of Transportation has provided an update on activity that will create lane changes or ramp closures starting this week.

• There will be a one-night closure of the left local lane on westboun...

COVID Clinic Coming to Annandale Saturday

There will be a COVID-19 clinic coming to Annandale starting Saturday, July 17. The clinic will provide the Pfizer vaccine and will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, July 17 and Saturday, July 24 to receive the first dose of the vaccine and 10 a.m....

U of M Extension Hosting Kernza Demonstration July 27

By Adam Austing, University of Minnesota Extension Educator

University of Minnesota Extension-Wright County and the Crow River Food Council are partnering to share the exciting characteristics of Kernza with area farmers, food makers and sellers, and those...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report covering the period of July 5-11. The full report can be viewed here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=2680

Reservations for Bertram Chain of Lakes Campground Open Wednesday

A Message from Wright County Parks & Recreation

The campground at Bertram Chain of Lakes Regional Park is preparing to open. There are a few things that you need to know as we prepare for the first campers. The first weekend for campers to be at the ca...

COVID Clinic Coming to St. Michael Wednesday

A COVID-19 vaccination clinic will be held in St. Michael starting this week. The clinic will be administering the Pfizer vaccine from 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 14 and 21 at the St. Michael City Center/Crow River Senior Center Craft Room (118...

WCEDP Has Redesigned Website

The Wright County Economic Development Partnership (WCEDP) is happy to announce a newly updated and improved website (https://wrightpartnership.org/). 

The new website has completed a major overhaul and provides something for everyone. WCEDP aims ...

CMRP Posting Job for Contract Project Manager

The Central Mississippi River Regional Planning Partnership (CMRP) has posted a job listing for a contract project manager as CMRP moves to the next phase of its Framework 2030 project.

CMRP is a nine-jurisdiction body consisting of Wright and Sherburne co...

County Seeking Public Input for Future Use of Current Government Center

Wright County is currently in the process of moving from the existing Wright County Government Center to the new Government Center on the county campus at Braddock Avenue and Hwy. 25 in Buffalo. The county is currently evaluating the current Government Ce...

License Center Announces Appointment Openings for July 19-30

The Wright County License Center has announced that approximately 600 appointments for renewing driver’s licenses will open at 8 a.m. Friday (June 9). The appointments will cover the period of July 19-30. With the Peacetime Emergency lifted in M...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report for the period of June 28-July 4. The full report can be seen here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=2672

State Has Closed Down Option of Taking Driver's License Exams Online

A Message from the Wright County License Center:

As of today (July 1), the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Driver and Vehicle Services Division has removed the online testing option for driver’s licenses. Like many provisions made by the St...

50 Things to Know About the 150th Wright County Fair

This year will be the 150^th Wright County Fair and, while many equate the fair with the food and the midway rides, there is a lot more than just eating and going on rides, especially this year as a lot of new attractions will take place for the sesquicent...

County Offices and Facilities to Be Closed Monday

All county facilities and offices will be closed Monday, July 5 in observance of the Independence Day holiday. All facilities and offices will reopen at 8 a.m. Tuesday, July 6.

WOW Van in Monticello Today

The Wellness on Wheels (WOW) mobile health clinic will be at Monticello High School (525 School Boulevard) from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. today (July 1). Registered nurses from Wright County Public Health will be on hand to provide health services, education and a...

DNR Offering Webinars Throughout July and August

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is conducting weekly webinars on a variety of outdoors topics over the next two months as part of its annual Summer Series.

The webinars are held at noon on Wednesdays throughout the rest of summer and ar...

Roundabout Project in Delano to Begin Tuesday, July 6

A Message from the Wright County Highway Department

Work at the intersection of Tiger Drive and County State Aid Highway 30 (CSAH 30) in the City of Delano will start Tuesday, July 6 and will be completed before school begins. The prime contractor on this ...

Online Renewals of Driver's Licenses Ends Tomorrow

As a reminder, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Driver and Vehicle Services Division has announced that special legislation approved last year will expire tomorrow (Wednesday, June 30) that allowed Minnesotans to renew driver’s licenses...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report for the period of June 21-27. The full report can be viewed here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=2661

Extension Offering Tips on Pasture Management

By Katherine Gathje, Interim Extension Educator

Hot and dry conditions have not been favorable for pasture growth this summer. Farmers have had to supplement pasture feeding with more dry forages than typical, putting a strain on available forages for wint...

Trailblazer Looking Post-COVID with Fleet of Buses in Buffalo

Last week, Trailblazer Transit held a ribbon-cutting for the garage expansion at its Buffalo facility. Seven years in the system, Wright County has become the largest user of the Trailblazer system and that growth is expected to continue as more bus route...

DNR Observing International Pollinator Week

Throughout the United States and in many other countries throughout the world June 21-27 is being observed as International Pollinator Week. There are thousands of pollinator species in Minnesota, including 400 species of native bees.

Pollinators play a ke...

License Center Announces Appointment Openings for July 6-16

At 8 a.m. today, approximately 600 appointments to renew driver’s license became available with the Wright County License Center for the period of July 6-16. While walk-ups are accepted from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., priority is gi...

DPS, Fire Marshal Warning of Dangers of Fireworks

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety and the State Fire Marshal’s Office are warning Minnesotans about the dangers of illegal fireworks this coming Fourth of July holiday weekend. On average, about 75 people are hospitalized with fireworks-...

Courts Gradually Returning to In-Person Hearings

The Wright County 10^th Judicial District has announced that it is adding limited hearings to in-person settings on its case docket. As of July 30, the courts will begin hearing in-person contested criminal and juvenile hearings along with criminal settlem...

Wright County Downgraded to Moderate Drought Conditions

The United States Drought Monitor has downgraded Wright County from the “Abnormally Dry” category to “Moderate Drought” as warm temperatures and the lack of rain is causing a strain on the ability for crops, lawns a...

County Fair Takes Months of Preparation to Pull Off

The 150^th Wright County Fair is coming July 21-25 and fair organizers are going all out to make the sesquicentennial version of the fair the biggest and best ever – a year after the original 150^th fair was cancelled due to COVID-19.

Wright County...

Limited Spots Remain for Day Camp at Ney Park Friday

Those with children ages 6-12 looking for a fun Day Camp activity, the Wright County Parks & Recreation Department is hosting a one-day camp from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, June 25 at Robert Ney Memorial Park in Maple Lake Township.

Kids will learn about...

WOW Van Coming to Monticello July 1

The Wellness on Wheels (WOW) mobile health clinic will be at Monticello High School (525 School Boulevard) from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, July 1. Registered nurses from Wright County Public Health will be on hand to provide health services, education and...

COVID-Related License Renewal Provisions to End June 30

The Minnesota State Legislature is currently meeting in special session to finish its business from the 2021 session and one key piece of legislation is going to impact Minnesota drivers.

At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic last year when many Minnesota...

What the Current Drought-Like Conditions Mean for Your Garden

Source: Kylee Sherod, University of Minnesota Extension Intern, Wright County

The past few weeks of high temperatures and dry weather have pushed much of Minnesota into a drought. The U.S. Drought Monitor indicates that 100 percent of the state is abnormal...

CSAH 6 Culvert Replacement To Be Completed This Week

After multiple delays due to a private fiber line that needed to be moved for the installation of a culvert, CSAH 6 in Victor Township is finally going to be completed this week.

Paving is going to begin today (June 22) and is expected to be opened to traf...

Wright County Fair Schedule Released

One month from today, the 150^th Wright County Fair will begin its five-day run from July 21-25. There are numerous events scheduled for the five days, including several new events as part of the 150^th year of the fair.

Below is the daily schedule. For more...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report for the period of June 14-20. The full report can be seen here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=2644

Participants in The Turn Take Part In 'Stories Worth Telling' Project

A Message from the Minnesota 10^th Judicial District

The Turn, the Wright County Adult Drug Court, celebrated National Drug Court Month in May by reflecting on the positive changes in the lives of program participants.

Through a project titled “Stories Worth...

Fishing Pier at Beebe Lake Has Been Moved to a New Location

Those who have visited Beebe Lake Regional Park between Buffalo and St. Michael in recent days have noticed a pretty significant change. Last week, a project that the Wright County Parks & Recreation Department had been wanting to do for several years...

Buffalo Days Celebration to be Featured on KSTP-TV This Afternoon

The annual Buffalo Days celebration will be featured tonight on the 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. newscasts on KSTP-TV Channel 5. The coverage is part of Channel 5’s “Back Together” series, which chronicles the return of time-honored eve...

Fishing Clinic Coming to Bertram Park Saturday

Minnesota Trout Unlimited will be hosting a fishing clinic for all ages at Bertram Chain of Lakes Regional Park in Monticello from 1-3 p.m. Saturday, June 19. For the little ones in your life, it makes a great early Father’s Day gift to share th...

Wright County Included in Two DNR Fire Warnings

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has included Wright County in a pair of fire danger warning areas – one for today (June 18) and one that will last until Wright County gets enough rain to be considered out of the danger zone for fir...

Highway Department Releases Update of Co. Rd. 118 Project

The Wright County Highway Department has provided an update on the County Road 118 (Fenning Avenue) construction project in the City of Monticello and Monticello Township, which is scheduled to begin Monday, June 21. To see the particulars of the project ...

Parks & Rec to Host Day Camp June 25 at Ney Park

Wright County Parks & Recreation has announced that it will be hosting a day camp for children ages 6-12 at Robert Ney Memorial Park near Maple Lake from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Friday, June 25. Kids will learn about the different wildlife that makes up m...

County Offices and Facilities will Be Open Friday

President Joe Biden has signed into law legislation establishing Juneteenth (June 19) as a federal holiday.  While many federal government offices will be closed in observance of the new holiday,  all Wright County offices and facilities...

Schroeder Park Boat Access Closed This Afternoon

The Wright County Parks & Recreation Department has announced that the boat access at Schroeder Park and Campground will be closed until 4 p.m. today as the launch undergoes repairs. Due to low water due to the lack of road, boats have been getting ca...

Highway Department Provides Timeline for CSAH 39/Odean Ave. Construction

The Wright County Highway Department has released a general timeline for the CSAH 39/Odean Avenue construction project in Otsego. Dates are subject to minor changes due to weather conditions.

Remainder of this week – re-spreading of topsoil, prep...

Town Ball Tour Coming to Delano Wednesday

For the second straight week, FOX-9 TV is going to highlight a city in Wright County as part of its summer Wednesday Town Ball Tour series.

Last week, the FOX-9 crew spent the full day in Buffalo, starting with the morning show, as well as live broadcasts ...

Spike's Farm of Buffalo Named 2021 Wright County Farm Family of the Year

By Adam Austing, University of Minnesota Extension, Wright County

The Farm Family Recognition Program has existed for more than 30 years and honors farm families from throughout Minnesota for their contributions to the agriculture industry and their local ...

Blood Donors Needed as Minnesota Faces Critical Shortage

A call is being put out to Minnesotans to donate blood as the state is facing a critical shortfall.

In a news release sent out today, Memorial Blood Centers (Minnesota’s largest blood bank) is recognizing World Blood Donor Day by reminding Minnes...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report for the period of June 7-13. The full report can be viewed here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=2628

I-94 Split at Albertville Coming Tuesday

Starting tomorrow (June 15), the eastbound lanes of Interstate 94 will be separated between CSAH 19 and Highway 241. Traffic will merge left or right prior to Albertville. The left lane will be for through traffic. The right lane gives access to CSAH 19 a...

Collinwood Park Event Coincides with National Get Outdoors Day

As part of National Get Outdoors Day Saturday (June 12), the Wright County Parks Department will be hosting an orienteering class at Collinwood Regional Park and Campground in Cokato.

The free event will be conducted from 1 to 3 p.m. and will teach partici...

Sheriff's Office Releases Statement Regarding Fatal Accident in Monticello Township

A Statement from the Wright County Sheriff’s Office

On June 10, 2021 at approximately 6:37 p.m. Wright County deputies were dispatched to 1383 120^th Street NE in Monticello Township for a report of an ATV crash involving a juvenile male. Upon arr...

Wright County Public Health Releases Weekly COVID-19 Dashboard

Wright County Public Health has released its weekly COVID-19 dashboard. The number of new confirmed cases for the week was just 33 – the lowest single-week total since April 2020. Despite having so few cases, there were six cases that required h...

License Center Announces Appointment Openings for June 21-July 2

At 8 a.m. today (Friday, June 11), the Wright County License Center will open approximately 600 appointment slots for driver’s license renewals and upgrades to enhanced licenses and REAL I.D. The appointments cover the period of June 21-July 2. ...

The Turn Announces Graduation Ceremony Set for June 24

The Turn (Wright County Adult Drug Court) is pleased to announce that Benton Sothman has graduated the program. A ceremony celebrating his achievement will be held at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, June 24 at Sturges Park (401 Lake Boulevard S. in Buffalo).

The keyno...

DNR Sponsoring Take a Kid Fishing Weekend June 11-13

In an effort to get more young people involved in fishing, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources will be hosting its annual Take a Kid Fishing Weekend Friday, June 11 through Sunday, June 13. All Minnesota Residents can fish this weekend without a...

Wright County Nearing Drought Conditions

As of today (June 10), Wright County is officially listed on the Minnesota drought map created by the National Drought Migration Center. The maps are updated every Thursday and, after not being included as recently as the June 3 map, Wright County has now...

Emergency Management Asking Vulnerable Groups to Stay Safe During Heatwave

As Wright County experiences its seventh straight day with temperatures of 90 degrees or above (a state record for June) with no significant drop in sight, Wright County Emergency Management is reminding residents about the dangers inherent to heat.

The Na...

FOX 9 in Buffalo Tonight As Part of Its Annual Town Ball Tour

Wright County is going to be prominently featured on FOX 9 over the next eight days, as the TV station makes two stops in Wright County as part of its annual “Town Ball Tour.”

The first will be this afternoon when the Fox 9 crew comes t...

MPCA Issues Code Orange Air Quality Alert Through 9 P.M. Tonight

Wright County has been included in a growing number of counties listed in an Air Quality Alert by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. The five-county Twin City metro area has been under the daily alerts since last weekend, but this afternoon the numbe...

DNR Providing Advice on How to Deal with Deer Ticks

In Minnesota, we’re in the middle of deer tick season. From mid-May to mid-July, the smaller nymph stage of deer ticks are feeding and potentially spreading Lyme disease.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has provided a list of tips f...

U of M Extension Explains Why We're Seeing So Many Maple Helicopters This Year

By Kylee Sherod, University of Minnesota Extension Intern, Wright County

Many Minnesotans have reported seeing abundant amounts of maple helicopter seeds this year. When the seed or fruit of long-lived trees are seen in copious amounts, similar to current ...

Wright County Listed By DNR As Having 'Very High' Fire Danger

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources updates its statewide fire danger and burning restriction maps daily and, for the moment, Wright County is listed among the counties with “very high” fire danger and under burning restricti...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report covering the period of May 31-June 6. To see the full report, click here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=2611

I-94 Project to Include Concrete Conveyor System

Those who commute from Wright County to the Twin Cities on Interstate 94 are going to be seeing an unfamiliar structure near Brockton Lane in Maple Grove – the first of its kind concrete conveyor system.

The system brings concrete above traffic a...

K-9 Grizz Officially Joins Sheriff's Office Staff

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office would like to congratulate Deputy Michael Loomis and his K-9 partner Grizz for completing their K-9 certifications in Narcotics Detection, Tracking, and General Patrol duties. The K-9 certification school hoste...

Minnesota State Parks to Offer Free Admission Saturday, June 12

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has announced that all 75 Minnesota state parks and recreation areas with offer free admission to everyone on Saturday, June 12.

The DNR offers the free entrance on four days during the year to cover all of the...

Highway 6 Culvert Project Delayed Again

A Message from the Wright County Highway Department

The County Highway 6 closure in Victor Township will be extended for the County Ditch 10 improvement work by Molnau Trucking, LLC.  Originally expected to be open to traffic by the end of the day...

MnDOT Warning Motorists About Potential Pavement Buckling

The Minnesota Department of Transportation is warning motorists traveling this weekend that temperatures are expected to approach 100 degrees in many parts of the state this weekend, which could cause pavement buckling on roads.

Pavement buckling occurs wh...

Wright County Public Health Releases Weekly COVID-19 Dashboard

Wright County Public Health has released its weekly COVID-19 dashboard. Due to the Memorial Day holiday weekend, numbers weren’t updated last week, so the new numbers reflect a two-week span.

The decline in new cases was pronounced, hitting the l...

County to Keep Appointment Schedule for Driver's License Renewals

Nobody questions that COVID-19 has impacted the lives of Wright County residents over the last year – from shelter-in-place orders to mask mandates. But, in some instances, the changes created by COVID have resulted in positive changes in terms ...

Section of CSAH 7 in Middleville Township to Close Monday

A Message from the Wright County Highway Department

The Wright County Highway Department has announced that CSAH 7 between Co. Rd. 107 and 30^th Street in Middleville Township will be closed on Monday, June 7 for a culvert replacement approximately 400 feet...

EDA to Begin Taking Offers on HHS Building in July

Next month, the Wright County Economic Development Authority (EDA) will begin fielding offers for the purchase and redevelopment of the Wright County Human Services Center, located at 1004 Commercial Drive in Buffalo near the intersection of Highway 55 an...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report covering the period of May 24-31. The full Activity Report can be viewed here: https://www.co.wright.mn.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=2599

Highway 30 Project Delayed

A Message from the Wright County Highway Department

County Ditch 10 (Culvert) Improvements on County Highway (CSAH) 30 Delayed Until Late Summer 

The County Highway 30 closure in Victor Township will be delayed for the County Ditch 10 Improvement W...

600 Appointment Slots for Driver's License Renewals to Open Friday

At 8 a.m. tomorrow (Friday, May 28), the Wright County License Center will open approximately 600 appointment slots for driver’s license renewals and upgrades to enhanced licenses and REAL I.D. The appointments cover the period of June 7-18. Wal...

Wright County Facilities Closed Monday

All Wright County facilities and offices will be closed Monday, May 31 in observance of the Memorial Day holiday. All offices and facilities will re-open at 8 a.m. Tuesday, June 1.

Wright County HHS to Host Vaccine Clinics June 3 and 10

Wright County Public Health will be hosting a COVID-19 vaccine clinic Thursday, June 3 and Thursday, June 10 at the Wright County Human Services Center in Buffalo. The clinic will be administering the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine which provid...

Wright County Requests Two Speed Studies from MnDOT

Often times when there are road construction projects in or around cities, local officials often ask the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) to get the proper speed limits posted on the newly constructed roads.

There are two speed studies that W...

County Highway 6 Closure Extended to Approximately June 4

A Message from the Wright County Highway Department

The County Highway 6 closure in Victor Township will be extended for the County Ditch No. 10 improvement work by Molnau Trucking, LLC. Originally expected to be open to traffic by the end of the ...

Parks & Rec Moving Raptor Center Program to August

Wright County Parks & Recreation has announced that the Raptor Center program scheduled for two shows Saturday, May 29 at Bertram Chain of Lakes Park has been moved to Saturday Aug. 21. The program is operated by the University of Minnesota Raptor Cen...

Increased Enforcement Coming on CSAH 39 between Monticello and Otsego

For years, the stretch of CSAH 39 between Hart Boulevard in Monticello and Odean Avenue NE in Otsego had one of the higher incident rates of rear-end crashes in Wright County. Given the large number of driveways along the road, those looking to access or ...

UPDATE: License Center Back Up and Running

A Message from the Wright County License Center

In an update from earlier today, the Wright County License Center came back online for renewals of driver’s licenses, enhanced licenses and REAL ID at approximately 3:15 p.m. today the issue was dis...

U of M Extension Offering Advice on Container Gardening

As the days get longer many people are out in their gardens while others long for that option. If you don’t have the space for a garden, a landlord that doesn’t allow a garden space or you don’t have the physical capability t...

Sheriff's Office Releases Weekly Activity Report

The Wright County Sheriff’s Office has released its weekly Activity Report for the period of May 17-23. The full report can be viewed here: http://www.co.wright.mn.us/civicalerts.aspx?AID=2586

License Center Unable to Renew Licenses That Require Photos Due to Software Outage

A Message from the Wright County License Center:

The connection between the Wright County License Center and the servers for the State of Minnesota have been down this morning, making it not possible to take photos needed for renewing driver’s li...