THIS NOTICE IS PRIMARILY for anyone living in Faribault. If you have a question, a concern, an idea, a solution or just want to connect with elected city officials and/or staff informally about city-related issues, plan to attend this week’s monthly Council Chat.
The public event, with a theme of “Open Office Hours,” is scheduled from 5-6 p.m. Wednesday, September 9, in Faribault’s Central Park. Show up, mingle and talk with city council members, the mayor and city staff. They will listen to your questions and concerns and, hopefully, provide answers, information and/or follow-up.
I’ve previously attended several of these casual Council Chats held at various locations in the city and with differing themes. But this month, the gathering is open-ended with no specific focus. I appreciate that. I value this opportunity to meet one-on-one rather than appearing before the City Council at a formal meeting or contacting city hall.
Meeting face-to-face seems a much more effective way of communicating concerns. But it needs to be done respectfully. Residents need to be heard as do those with the city. At the heart of everything should be an authentic desire to do what is best for the residents of Faribault.
Right now, my focus is on my Willow Street neighborhood. Yes, that’s a narrow perspective. But that’s OK. I need to express my concerns over speeding, crashes and a junkyard property. I want to feel safe and respected in my home along this busy arterial street. Right now I don’t feel that way. I want my voice to be heard and for something to be done to address these issues.
Maybe you have something on your mind. Data centers. Property taxes. City spending. Enforcement of existing city ordinances and laws. A problem property. Even speeding. Now’s your chance to talk with your local elected officials and city employees one-on-one, face-to-face. Let your voice be heard this Wednesday, 5-6 p.m. at Central Park.
© Copyright 2026 Audrey Kletscher Helbling
Minnesota Prairie Roots 
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