Winnebago County is preparing for a full season of road improvements in 2026, with projects focused on strengthening pavement, improving safety, and extending the lifespan of the roadway network. This year’s program includes surfacing work, asphalt preservation treatments, microsurfacing, fog sealing, and several culvert and small bridge replacements across the county.

The budget is set for the coming year at North Iowa Community Schools, as the school board unanimously approved the proposed 2026-2027 budget at its April 20 meeting. There were no public comments on the budget during a hearing held at the start of the April meeting.

The Forest City Community School District is one of the first seven school districts in the state to be named a Purple Star School by the Iowa Department of Education. This special designation recognizes school districts that are committed to supporting military-connected families and their students.

Researchers and everyday people alike can now keep a closer eye on the birds visiting Winnebago County, thanks to the addition of the Mae’s Way Motus tower at the Hanson Nature Center.

The Winnebago County Conservation Board will celebrate spring with an open house at the Hanson Nature Center on Saturday, Apr. 25. A highlight for the day will be the dedication of the Center’s new Motus Tower. The event will run from 1:30-3:30 p.m., with the tower dedication taking place at 2:00 p.m.

The Forest City Community School District is proud to announce a new partnership with Iowa Giving Crew (IGC) as part of the organization’s newly established North Iowa Chapter. This collaboration will bring valuable resources to students and families across the district by addressing essential, everyday needs.

Spring is here, and the two Winnebago County campgrounds at Thorpe Park and Dahle Park will be opening on May 1. As of that date, all utilities will be turned on, and the tables and fire rings will be available for use. Both parks also have pit toilets or porta-potties that will be ready for use. 

Winnebago County Auditor Karla Weiss and local election security partners recently joined the Iowa Secretary of State’s office to participate in annual election security exercises. These tabletop exercises focus on effective responses to potential election-related threats and simulate potential issues or emergencies that could affect voters and the elections process.

All ladies are invited to attend the 9:30 a.m. meeting of Buffalo Center Area Christian Women on Wednesday, May 6, at the Heritage Town Center.

Judie Colyer of Ankeny will speak on “Joy in the Journey.” Special musical feature will be presented by “The Three CDs” – Linda Hill of Kiester, Audrey Kiihn of Bricelyn, and Julie Quamme of Buffalo Center.

North Iowa Elementary School in Buffalo Center will host Kindergarten Round-Up on Thursday, May 7 during the school day. Children who will be five years of age by September 15, 2026 are invited to attend a portion of the day in kindergarten. Students enrolled in Preschool and K-Prep will attend during their school day.

Lake Mills senior Grace Bechtel has been helping to shape education in Iowa over the past year, as a member of the State Board of Education. Governor Kim Reynolds appointed Grace to the board last year in a nonvoting role as student representative. She has had the chance to learn and give input during her 12-month term, which wraps up this month.

The City of Buffalo Center is seeking bids for its 2026 street project, as the City Council moves forward with the project after getting public input during an April 13 hearing. The Council heard from residents both in favor and opposed to the project, which will pave three blocks of 3rd Ave. NW and two blocks of 3rd St. NW.

Cindy Hagen of Thompson was recently selected as a 2026 Merit Mother by the Iowa Mothers Association. She was honored at the Iowa Association’s annual convention in Des Moines on March 28.

Area communities are gearing up for their summer farmers markets, and vendors can sign up now to participate at farmers markets in Buffalo Center, Forest City, and Lake Mills.