Mayor and council celebrate grand opening of Decorah's new archery range

The Decorah City Council convened on April 7, 2025, to discuss various community initiatives and updates. The meeting began with acknowledgments of local events and contributions, highlighting the recent grand opening of the new City Archery Range. Council member Steve expressed gratitude towards the Parks and Recreation board and volunteers for their efforts in bringing the archery range to fruition, noting its positive reception among community members.

The council then shifted focus to the Heidley proposal, with discussions emphasizing collaboration among council members. Steve commended his colleagues for their constructive dialogue, which he believes will enhance safety and long-term benefits for Decorah. Although he expressed concerns about the proposal's scope, he chose not to withdraw it from the consent agenda, indicating a desire for unity moving forward.

Randy brought forth a suggestion to close part of Washington Street for the summer, proposing it be transformed into a large parklet to benefit local businesses and tourists. This idea was met with support, and the council agreed to consider it further.

Cody shared his experience participating in a ride-along training session with the fire department, expressing admiration for the dedication of the volunteers. He also reported on a recent rally, emphasizing the importance of First Amendment rights and the safe environment provided for participants.

Emily echoed sentiments of appreciation for public safety personnel and highlighted the vibrant community activities planned for the summer, including Nordic Fest. She also spoke about her participation in the rally, reinforcing the significance of civil rights and government accountability.

The meeting concluded with a collective acknowledgment of the community's spirit and the ongoing efforts of its members to foster a supportive environment. The council plans to continue discussions on the proposed street closure and other initiatives in future meetings.