Roy Lenzen News Today

This week, efforts to name a major highway bridge in Granite Falls after former mayor Dave Smiglewski took a step forward. On Monday, members of the Minnesota S

ST. PAUL — This week, efforts to name a major highway bridge in Granite Falls after former mayor Dave Smiglewski took a step forward. On Monday, members of

Senators voted 64-0 for the bill naming the U.S. Highway 212 bridge in Granite Falls in his memory and applauded the late mayor's family and friends who witnessed the vote in St. Paul.

Residents and visitors alike in New London, Granite Falls and Willmar bid farewell to influential leaders who dedicated significant portions of their lives to the benefit of the communities they called home.

From an injury-free train derailment in Raymond, to the loss of well-respected community members to the debate surrounding the Upper Sioux State Agency Park land transfer, communities in west central Minnesota experienced plenty of highs and lows throughout the past year.

GRANITE FALLS — He was part of city leadership for more than 25 years. But Dave Smiglewski’s impact on the community of Granite Falls went beyond his office

GRANITE FALLS — He was part of city leadership for more than 25 years. But Dave Smiglewski’s impact on the community of Granite Falls went beyond his office

Mayor Dave Smiglewski of Granite Falls died Friday at age 70. He has served in the city government since 1979, and as mayor since 1996.